Gary Eilbert

January 08, 2022

Gary Eilbert

Service Details

Gary Eilbert
10/15/1940 - 01/08/2022

Heaven gained an angel but our hearts are broken. We have lost such a kind and gentle soul. Our family is blessed to have had you while we did. You brought so much love and joy to all who knew you and you never met a stranger.

Charles (Gary) Eilbert was born Oct. 15, 1940 in Des Moines to Charles and Susan (Sterrett) Eilbert. He was the eldest of three, followed by Diane and Richard. He graduated from Des Moines Tech. He began his career in firefighting in 1965 and retired from station 6 in 1998 after 33 yrs. doing what he loved. He never considered it "a job" and his compassion only enhanced his position.

Gary loved NASCAR and anything car-related. He also owned a bodyshop for many years and had numerous beautiful vehicles throughout his lifetime.

Florida was Gary's happy place and he thrived in the sun and the ocean near Daytona and Ormond Beach. He and Joanie enjoyed traveling there and spending time at his second home.

He cherished being with family and friends and was a great entertainer in his home. He was also quite a cook and would invite people over whenever a NASCAR race was on TV, to share a meal and good conversation. Gary would give you the proverbial "shirt off his back" for anyone and will always be known for his selfless attitude and his loving spirit.

Survivors include sister, Diane Griggs and her children, Michelle Griggs, Tami Vanlerberg (Bryon), and Mike Griggs (Jan), his sweetheart, Joan Azinger and her daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and Jim McKnight, as well as his best buddy, Stanley, his four-legged furry friend. He also leaves behind countless friends and extended family who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his son, Gary David, parents, and brother, Rick.

You will forever be in our hearts!

Memorial contributions may be directed to an animal shelter of choice as Gary had a passion for all creatures great and small.

However, if you really wish to honor Gary, be kind and pay it forward.

A graveside service will be announced at a later date in the spring.

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