Douglas George Gathman

Douglas George Gathman, the son of William Frank and Alice Elsie Muilenburg Gathman, was born November 27, 1933, in Hartley, IA. He received his early education and graduated from the Hartley High School in 1952. Doug entered the United States Army in April of 1953, serving two years overseas in Japan building airstrips for the Air Force. He was honorably discharged in February of 1956.

On January 26, 1957, Doug married Marilyn Mae Leslie. They were married at the United Methodist Church in Everly. Following their marriage, they made their home in Everly. Doug worked for Noel Construction in Spencer until September 1957. In October 1957, he started working for Farmers Cooperative Elevator Company of Everly. He became General Manager in 1976 and retired on January 1, 1999, after 42 years of service to the cooperative. Between 1963 and 1969, he also farmed northeast of Everly. In his spare time, Doug enjoyed golfing, fishing and other outside activities but his most enjoyable time was that which he spent with his family. He was a member of the American Legion Post of Milford.

Doug passed away on November 16, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Spirit Lake at the age of 91. He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; his wife of 55 years, Marilyn in 2012; infant daughter in 1962; brothers: Robert and Roger and sisters: Billie, Lois, Peggy, Jean and Patricia.

He is survived by his children: Tracy (Debbie) Gathman of Johnston, IA, Michael Gathman of Polk City, IA and Jodi (Chad) Pottorf of Spirit Lake, IA; 5 grandsons: Christopher (Amy) Gathman, Daniel (Kelsi) Gathman, Zachary and Brett Gathman and Tyrell Howard; 2 granddaughters: Adrienne Gathman and Shelby (Tyler) Wolthuis; 3 great grandchildren: Ayen Gathman, Keelan Morris and Emelea Wolthuis; sister, Sandy Hoffman; brother, Larry (Terri) Gathman; sister-in-law, Lori Gathman; nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Memorials can be directed to:

mikeroweworks.org or foldsofhonor.org