Gary Craig Heckart, 87, of Ottumwa died at 6:16 a.m. October 7, 2026 at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.
He was born June 9, 1939 in Ottumwa to Clarence “Bud” and Mildred Cook Heckart. Gary married Barbara K. Huber April 1, 1962, at Wesley United Methodist Church and she preceded him in death November 13, 2019.
Gary was a partner in Bud Heckart & Sons Inc. He operated for over 36 years, retiring in 2002.
He was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church and now First Presbyterian Church. He also had been a member of B.P.O. Elks Lodge #347. Gary loved classic cars, attending car shows, going on fishing trips and hunting. He also enjoyed attending the races when he was younger.
Surviving are his sons, Mathew (Samantha) Heckart of Ottumwa, Gregory (Kim) Heckart of Walker and Nicholas (Candee) Heckart of Ottumwa; 6 grandchildren, Samantha (Kevin) Gerken, Amanda (Drew) Hellige, Blake Smith, Alexa Heckart, Danielle (Cody) Newhard and Gary Heckart; a granddaughter-in-law, Samantha Heckart; 9 great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Robert Heckart Sr. and Rick Heckart; and a grandson, Codie Heckart.
Visitation will be open at 1 p.m. Friday, October 9th at Reece Funeral Home with family present to greet friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday.
Funeral services will be 1 p.m. Saturday, October 10th at Reece Funeral Home with Rev. Nancy Cameron officiating. Burial will be in Shaul Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
