In Memory of Gary W. Rohlf

Gary W. Rohlf, age 72, of Odebolt, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m., with visitation held one hour prior from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa. Pastor Debbie Griffin will officiate. Committal Services will follow in the Odebolt Cemetery of Odebolt, Iowa. 

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Odebolt, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Gary Wayne Rohlf, age 72, of Odebolt, Iowa, passed away peacefully and was joyfully reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Sharon Irene Rohlf. Born on September 15, 1952, to Robert and Frances Rohlf, Gary was a lifelong farmer whose heart and soul were rooted in the land of Sac and Ida Counties. Farming was more than a livelihood to Gary — it was a legacy. He took immense pride in his fields and found joy in the simple pleasure of driving gravel roads, surveying the crops while country music played softly through the radio.

To those who knew him, Gary was more than a farmer. He was a loyal neighbor, a kind-hearted friend, and someone who could always be counted on for a helping hand. Whether sitting on the front porch with Sharon watching the world go by or visiting with friends and neighbors, Gary had a way of making those around him feel welcome and cared for. After Sharon’s passing, he continued this tradition of quiet reflection and fellowship, soaking in summer evenings and the company of those who stopped by.

He was a devoted father to his sons, Nick and Ryan, and cherished every moment he spent with them. He found joy in country music, farm market reports, and the rhythms of rural life. Gary also shared a special bond with his brother Jim, often lending a hand with farm work and gardening during their time together in Odebolt.

In his later years, Gary moved to Altoona to be closer to his son Ryan and son-in-law Tanner. He made a new home at Edencrest at Tuscany, where he was embraced by a loving community. He found happiness in simple routines — playing dominos, enjoying the patio on sunny days, watching sports, and flashing his signature sweet (and occasionally ornery) smile whenever Ryan and Tanner came to visit.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Frances Rohlf, and his wife, Sharon Rohlf — his partner of over 33 years. While his presence will be deeply missed, we find peace in knowing that Gary has found eternal rest and a long-awaited embrace with Sharon in the presence of our Lord and Savior.

We love you, Dad. We miss you dearly. Say hi to Mom for us. Your legacy of love, resilience, and quiet strength will forever live on in our hearts.