Gale Roy Hevelone
April 07, 1946 — March 18, 2025
Gale Roy Hevelone
Altoona, Iowa
Gale Roy Hevelone, 78, passed away surround by family on March 18, 2025, at Iowa Methodist Medical Center in Des Moines. He was born on April 7, 1946 in Blue Springs, NE to Raymond and Beulah (Grothaus) Hevelone. Gale was raised on a farm in Nebraska, where he developed a strong work ethic and deep appreciation for hands-on skills, which shaped the path of his life.
His career as a diesel truck mechanic began early and culminated in his retirement as a respected shop manager. Outside of work, Gale pursued his love of dirt track racing with his first wife Louise, transitioning from a racer in his younger years to a flagman—a role he cherished. In his later years, he reignited his love for dirt track racing.
In his leisure, Gale enjoyed the excitement of watching professional bull riding (PBR), taking trips to the casino, and the adventure of marrying his beloved second wife, Terry, during a memorable Las Vegas ceremony. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter.
Post-retirement, Gale discovered a surprising passion for sewing and quilting with Terry, where his creativity shone brightly. His quilts, lovingly crafted, became treasured gifts for his grandchildren and were also generously donated to hospitals and fire departments in his community.
Gale found joy in spending time at the pond on their acreage, fishing peacefully and reveling in the beauty of nature. He also delighted in repairing motorcycles and go-karts for his grandchildren, creating countless cherished memories.
Throughout his life, Gale called many places home, including various towns in Nebraska, Wisconsin, and Iowa. He most recently resided in Altoona, where he continued to share his warmth, skills, and humor with everyone around him.
Gale was survived by his loving wife, Terry; son, Scott Hevelone (Sonia); daughter, Wendy Price (Matt); step-daughters, Sherry Musgrove and Stacey Naber (Wes); sister, Gloria Ottesburg; 6 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; and loving cats Pip, Boots, and Peach.
He is proceeded in death by his parents; his first wife, Louise Hevelone; siblings, Ralph Hevelone and Eula Von Youngswirth; daughter-in-law Donna Hevelone; and son-in-law Dennis Price.
Family will greet guests on Friday, March 28th from 11:00 AM-12:00 PM at Hamilton’s Altoona Funeral Home, 105 4th Street SW, Altoona, Iowa. A funeral service will take place 12:00 PM on Friday, March 28th at the funeral home. Gale will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill, Iowa immediately following the service at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions can be directed to the Animal Rescue League in memory of Gale.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Kevin R. Gass
03/25/2025
On behalf of all of the retired and current employees of PDI, we offer our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Gale. I had the pleasure of working with him during his entire PDI career. Gale was instrumental in getting our company owned maintenance facility up and running. Gale came highly regarded in the industry so we were thrilled to be able to bring him on board. Simply put, Gale knew the heavy truck and trailer maintenance business better than most. The job was done correctly the first time and cutting corners was never an option. We were very appreciative of the time we had with Gale leading our maintenance team.
Although he may be gone from sight, he will always live within our hearts.
Rest in peace Gale!
Kevin R. Gass
Senior VP Transportation
Perishable Distributors of Iowa (Retired)