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   Mark William McCrary, 77, of Traer, IA, passed away Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Unity Point Allen Hospital in Waterloo. A private family graveside service will be held at Buckingham Cemetery in rural Traer. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 21, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. at the Traer Community Building in Traer.

   Mark was born on June 8, 1947, in Waterloo, Iowa, the son of George and Bethel (Kostlan) McCrary.

He graduated from Reinbeck High School in the Class of 1965.

   On September 23, 1967, he was united in marriage to Joleen Krezek in Clutier. Over the years, Mark worked as a mechanic for Vokoun Motors, John Deere Implement in Traer and then John Deere in Waterloo for thirty years at Product Engineering Center. He retired at the age of fifty-five. Mark enjoyed being with his family and being a grandpa and great-grandpa. His hobbies included spending time at their lake home in Longville, MN, Musky fishing or fishing of any kind. He also liked hunting, playing cards, playing pool, listening to Polka music and pull tabs in Minnesota. Mark recently enjoyed his Tuesday meetings with the guys.

   Survivors include his daughter, Tami (Tim) Kruse of Keystone; his son, Todd (Jenny) McCrary of Montezuma; two granddaughters, Morgan (Blake) DeRycke of Atkins and Kaylee (Troy) Hanus of Hudson; two grandsons, Tyler Sandfield and Connor Sandfield of North Liberty; one great-granddaughter, Kinley DeRycke; sister-in-law, Judy and Steve Hook; brother-in-law, Randy (Judy) Krezek; nephew, Ryan (Carrie) Hook; nieces, Jacey (Jason) Fischer and Jillisa (Chad) Halverson; and many great nieces and nephews; and his dog Walter. 

   Preceding him in death were his parents; and his wife, Joleen on March 19, 2015.

   Memorial funds may be directed to the Traer Ambulance or Traer Fire Department.

   Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home, Tama-Toledo, is assisting the family with arrangements.

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