Gary "Junior" Babe

Gary Wesley “Junior” Babe, was born on November 8, 1963, the son of Gary Babe and Martha (Flanagan) Babe Kessel in Missouri Valley, Iowa. He received his education from the Woodbine and Dow City Schools. Following his education, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he had the opportunity to travel to many places across the United States and Europe. While stationed in Germany, Gary was injured when a building collapsed, crushing his leg. As a result of his injury, he was medically discharged from the military.

After his service, Gary returned to Deloit. He was always proud to say he had been happily married four times and was blessed with a son, Austin. Through his marriages, he gained many stepchildren and took pride in stepping up to raise them, always striving to be a good man and father figure. Gary worked at Iowa Beef Processors for a short time before beginning a long career as a truck driver. He was proud to have owned his own truck at one point, but later decided life was easier as a hired driver. Over the years, he drove for several companies, including R.E. Monson Trucking, and finished his career with Moeller Trucking. Unfortunately, due to ongoing injuries, he was eventually forced to retire from trucking.

From a young age, Gary had a passion for motorcycles. His first bike was a ’65 Panhead, and throughout his life he enjoyed buying, trading, and riding bikes. In later years, he found joy in riding trikes. He also deeply loved his pug, Oscar, who was his loyal companion. Gary was an avid sports fan who loved cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears. In his later years, he became a fan of the WNBA and was often teased by his brothers for knowing the names of all the players. Good-natured ribbing and team rivalries were part of the fun and connection he shared with his brothers. Above all, Gary’s greatest joy came from his family. His son, grandchildren, and brothers meant the world to him. He was always willing to lend a hand, do anything for others, and never missed a chance to insist on paying for your meal.

Gary passed away, surrounded by his family, on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at his daughter’s home in St. Ansgar, at the age of 61 years, 11 months and ten days. He was preceded in death by his parents; step-dad, Robert Kessel; sister, Stacy Babe; stepson, Jason Beaver; grandson, Owen Reich; and sister-in-law, Flo Cose.

Gary is survived by his son, Austin Wulf of Deloit; siblings: Steve (Julie) Babe of Murray, Nebraska, Russ (Cathy) Babe of Schleswig, Tony (Cathy) Babe of Savannah, Georgia, Chris Babe of Britt, Dan (Deb) Martin of Kiron and Miranda Kessel (Justin) of Odebolt; step-children: Sheila Reich, Jake Reich, Dennis Reich, Ronnie Walker and Jessica Beaver; special friend, Barbara Babe; many nieces and nephews; and other family members and friends.

His funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m., with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., all on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the Huebner Funeral Home in Denison. Interment will follow in the Deloit Cemetery. The family will direct memorials.