DR. GREGORY J. GARVIN

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Dr. Gregory J. Garvin, 71, of Muscatine, passed away on the night of January 1, following a brief battle with cancer.

Greg was born in Muscatine, Iowa, on March 28, 1954, to Raymond and Vera Garvin. During his early years, Greg excelled at sports and making friends, and developed a lifelong love for the outdoors. He graduated from Muscatine High School, Class of 1972, before attending Iowa State University, where he earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1978.

Upon graduation, Greg began his veterinary career in Algona, Iowa before moving to Walcott, Iowa in 1985. There, he fulfilled the remainder of his exceptional career, faithfully serving the livestock and pets of his clients—many of whom he considered dear friends.

Greg married Sue Lybbert in 1977, and together they shared 49 years of marriage. He was a deeply devoted father to three children and a father-figure to many more. Greg was a passionate outdoorsman, conservationist, and an active member of the Walcott Lions Club. He fished from northern Canada to Costa Rica and everywhere in between. Greg hosted deer camp every December, traveled the country with the East Hill gang, and spent much of his life planting trees and stewarding his land for his family and wildlife to enjoy.

Greg was well known for celebrating Christmas year-round and loved nothing more than spending time with his 11 grandchildren—attending their sporting events and watching Tom and Jerry with them while eating Sue Chip cookies. His only goal left unaccomplished was finding Bigfoot. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and his ability to genuinely connect with everyone he met.

Greg is survived by his loving wife, Sue Garvin of Muscatine; his sister, Judy Lawrence (John) of Granger, Iowa; his children, Jill Smith (Drew) of Muscatine, Jon Garvin (Megan) of Urbandale, and Matt Garvin (Danielle) of Cedar Falls; and his grandchildren, Ashley, Dresden, Ozzie, Blake, Piper, Reese, Shea, Ella, Lily, Jett, and Saylor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Vera Garvin, and his older brother, Dennis Garvin.

Services will be held at Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home, with visitation on Thursday, January 8, from 4:00–6:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Friday, January 9, at 10:00 a.m., with burial to follow at Muscatine Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lions Club SightFirst Program. Online Condolences may be made at www.wittichfuneralhome.com