Gary Speck
August 14, 2022
Gary Ray Speck, age 73, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Sunday, August 14, 2022.
Gary was born April 5, 1949 in Des Moines, Iowa to Ernest and Lorene (Foreman) Speck. He was known by friends and family as the “King of the Southside”. He loved music and could always be heard saying, “Play it one more time.” Gary was an avid Cubs and Hawkeyes fan. He loved watching classic movies of all types, especially The Wizard of Oz. Gary took pride in his vehicles and frequented Mr. Car Wash daily. He was a former president of Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and a member of Fraternal Order of the Eagles and Sons of the American Legion. He was an active and founding member of Southside Cares.
He is survived by his wife, Ann; children, Robin Vinzant, Jason Speck (Bandi), Amy Walker, Tiffany Speck, and Nick Speck; grandchildren, Jordan Speck, Austin McPherson, Dylan Cataldo, AJ Speck, Alex Latcham, Maura Speck, Trever Vinzant, Noah Walker, Alexa Walker, Derek Latcham, and Lillith Speck; nine great-grandchildren; and countless other extended family and friends he considered family. Gary was a Dad and Bepa to so many.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Lorene Speck; brothers, Butch and Rollie Speck; and granddaughter, Hailey.
Services will be held at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway (3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines). Visitation will be from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, August 19, 2022. Funeral will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 20, 2022. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Gary.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Dick Tillinghast
08/20/2022
I have known Gary since we were at Lincoln High School. I was in the Class of '66 and Gary '67. We were good friends and remained so over the years. Even though I saw Gary less frequently as time went by, the one thing I will always remember was Gary greeting me with a hug and "I love you." He was one of the funniest people on earth, with his quick wit! Rest in Peace Gary Speck.
Olivia A schaefer( camacho0
08/20/2022
Annie. Sorry to hear about Gary passing. Prayers to your family.
Jeffrey A Douglas & Stephen Douglas
08/20/2022
So sorry Anne. Just got of the Hospital my self. Did not know about Gary. He was my Friend and I will Miss him. Had some fun times with that man. Again Sorry to the whole Family
Frank Colacino
08/19/2022
Gary was larger than life.
He was a good friend of mine and loved by all who knew him.
I'm going to miss him.
Condolences from our family.
Shahnaz
08/19/2022
My condolences to the Speck family. Saw Gary 25 years ago at the fair after 15 + years and he remembered me. Many memories from "So your Mother's" days 1970s ! RIP, Gary ! See you on the other side !
Rory and Darla Guess
08/19/2022
Thanks for all the memories we will miss you !
Tom and Beverly JarshawAnnie
08/18/2022
Annie and family .I am so sorry.Rest in Paradise Gary.God Bless you Tom and Boog.
Cheryl Doll
08/18/2022
Ann, I was so very sorry to hear about the passing of your husband. Prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Charles (charlie) Stepp
08/18/2022
There's more of us in Heaven than in the park. ✌
You're missed..
Nancy Hays
08/18/2022
Gary was a great neighbor growing up. He did so much for so many people, and was a generous soul. Prayers for those who loved him.
Marlena
08/18/2022
Ann I was very sad to hear of Gary's passing prayers ho out to you and your family.
Eileen Perrin
08/17/2022
Gary was so loving, kind and, always happy to see an old friend. Made you feel welcomed- I love you Annie and Gary, you were both so gracious always. I will see you my dear friend on the other side My heartbreaks for your loss - Amy and Jason as well, your in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you during this time, and always
Craig Shelton
08/17/2022
Our deepest condolences to Garys family.
Gary and I have known each other since kindergarten and we remained friends all this time. We just spoke after his surgery and Im so happy we did. Gary was a wonderful man and the world wont be the same without him. We are so sorry for your loss will keep your family in our prayers. God bless you all and God bless Gary.
Jeff J DeMoss
08/17/2022
I don't think he met anyone he couldn't find good in, and he never forgot a name. He talked me in to joining Southside Cares, he sponsored me to join The Friendly Son's of St. Patrick. He did so very much for both organizations, he will be missed beyond what words can explain. Gary was truly unique and one of a kind. Rest in Peace Brother.
Tim Lage
08/17/2022
You will be missed you so many. Keep a cold one for me my friend.