Danny Ray Garst

Obituary: Danny Ray Garst In loving memory of Danny Ray Garst, who peacefully departed from this world on May 24, 2026, at the age of 80, at the Tabor Manor Care Center. Born on February 9, 1946, in Gray, Tennessee, Danny’s life was a testament to kindness, loyalty, and a boundless love for family and nature. Danny was the cherished son of the late Elmer Wesley Garst and Helen Elizabeth Britt Garst. He spent his formative years in Gray, Tennessee, attending elementary and middle school before moving to Malvern, Iowa, where he completed high school. It was in these early years that his passion for music shone brightly, winning 1st place at the Iowa State Fair with his heartfelt rendition of "How Great Thou Art." In 1967, Danny married the love of his life, Peggy Jo Copus, embarking on a journey filled with shared dreams and unwavering devotion. Together, they built a beautiful family and created a home filled with laughter and warmth. Though Peggy preceded him in death, along with their beloved daughter Colleen Irene Farwell, and their great-granddaughter Ava Smith, their memory remained ever-present in Danny’s heart. Danny’s career was marked by dedication and hard work. He spent many years at the Swift Packing Plant before transitioning to the Tabor Manor Care Center, where his gentle demeanor and integrity touched many lives. His retirement was spent in tranquility, where he dedicated himself to beautifying his yard, and often found joy in the simple pleasures of working on his aunt’s farm in Malvern, Iowa. An honest and kind man, Danny was known for his good heart and a strong desire never to be a burden to those around him. He found joy in the art of tinkering and fixing things, demonstrating a remarkable ability to breathe new life into the most delicate of objects. His love for fishing provided him with moments of peace and reflection, while the strains of bluegrass and gospel music were a constant companion, echoing the heartfelt sincerity with which he approached life. Danny is survived by his devoted daughter, Kathy Deitchler, and her husband Aaron of Silver City, Iowa; his daughter, Cheryl Kelsay, and her husband Danny of Hartville, Missouri; his son, Rick Moore, and his wife Laura of Council Bluffs, Iowa; and his son, Paul Garst, of Pennsylvania. His legacy is further carried by his grandchildren: Dustin, Tara, Amanda, Rachel, Nikki, Ian, and Miranda, as well as his numerous great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the lessons and love imparted by their grandfather. Danny’s life was a symphony of love, resilience, and humility. Though his presence will be deeply missed, the values he instilled and the memories he created will continue to inspire all who were privileged to know him. In honoring his life, we celebrate a man who, with unfailing grace and goodness, left the world a better place than he found it. A memorial service to honor Danny’s life will be held at a future date, where friends and family will gather to share stories and celebrate the journey of a remarkable man. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Danny’s name, continuing his legacy of kindness and generosity.