Gary Lee Biederman

The fish of Northwest Iowa collectively breathed a sigh of relief as Gary Lee Biederman, age 72, of Everly, Iowa, formerly of Mitchell County, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Iowa City, after an extended battle with systemic scleroderma. Gary was born February 28, 1952, in Osage, Iowa, the son of Wilbur and Eleanor (Klein) Biederman. He graduated from St. Ansgar High School with the class of 1970, and then attended Iowa State University, graduating in 1978. Gary served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War. He married Susan Plank in 1979 in Cedar Rapids, IA. To this union two children were born, Michelle and Michael. They later divorced.

Gary spent over 30 years working his dream job for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources in Clay and O’Brien counties. His hobbies and interests included fishing, hunting, camping, teaching, and history. Gary enjoyed his long career in public service, especially educating the public about natural resources through his weekly radio update on KCID, Kid’s Fish Day, and numerous other public outreach engagements. Gary was a former President of the Iowa Great Lakes Fishing Club, and an active member of Pheasants Forever and Ducks Unlimited. 

Gary is survived by his daughter, Michelle (Susan Pulongbarit) Biederman of Washington, DC; son, Michael (Dr. William Halls) Biederman of Shueyville, IA; granddaughter, Vienna Halls- Biederman; sisters, Ann (Marty) Perry of Southport, North Carolina, and Gwen (Joe) Paulson of Grafton; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wilbur and Eleanor Biederman; and brother, Bruce Biederman.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Champion Funeral Home in Osage, IA. 

Lest the fish think they are off the hook, in the lieu of flowers, please consider supporting the wildlife conservation of Iowa by purchasing an Iowa fishing license and going fishing. Alternatively, please consider donating to the Prairie Heritage Center in Peterson, Iowa, https://prairieheritagecenter.org/.

Hoff Celebrations - Champion Chapel of Osage is assisting the family with arrangements.