Gary Lee Lenz

Gary Lee Lenz, 84, of Del Rio, Texas, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025. He was born on September 8, 1940, to Carl and Velma Lenz in Des Moines, Iowa where he grew up on his family's farm surrounded by nature and country life.

Gary was a graduate of Wayne State University where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting and his Master's Degree in Adult Education. He went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Major. As an Air Operations Officer and fighter pilot, he served bravely during the Vietnam War, flying 168 combat missions in his F-4 Phantom. His military call name was "Hungry," a nickname earned because, without fail, just as he buckled in to prepare for a mission, he'd realize he was hungry. The name stuck, and it came to symbolize both his humor and humanity amid the intensity of war. After retiring from the military, Gary continued to share his passion for aviation as a simulator flight instructor, ending his career at Laughlin Air Force Base mentoring many aspiring pilots.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia Lenz, and is survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Gisela Lenz. Together, they built a life centered on faith, service, and family. Gary was a devout follower of Christ and a devoted member of Esperanza First Church in Del Rio, where he served faithfully. He joyfully taught Sunday school over the years, seizing every opportunity to share the gospel. He and Gisela spent their time volunteering with Loaves and Fishes, a local nonprofit dedicated to feeding the hungry. Gary also delivered meals for Meals on Wheels for many years, bringing food and companionship to homebound neighbors throughout the community.

He is survived by his children: Lisa Drzik, Jason Lenz, Thomas Nordstrand, Patty Kusenberger, Cindy Lewis; his grandchildren: Katie Fritsch, Colby Kusenberger, Samuel Nordstrand, Courtney Rose, Angela Nordstrand, Shelby Kusenberger, Cassidy Kusenberger, Cody Kusenberger, Kristen Lewis, Victoria Lenz, and Zachary Lenz; and great-grandchildren: Kennedy Fritsch, Beckham Rose, Autumn Sanchez, Collin Fritsch, Calloway Rose, Scarlett Nordstrand, and Anthony Rocky Kusenberger.

Gary is also survived by his sisters Mary Bruhn and Susan Burch, and his brothers Wayne Lenz and Bob Lenz.

He will be remembered for his love of history, particularly military and aviation history, his enjoyment of road biking, and his signature red Jeep Rubicon. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service celebrating Gary's life will be held on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Esperanza First Church, 301 Ave G, Del Rio, Texas officiated by Dr. Jim Wilson.

The interment will be held at a later date at the Florida National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, Florida.

Gary's legacy of faith, family, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.