James Gebauer

James Gebauer, 91, of Choctaw, Oklahoma, joined his Heavenly Father on Friday, June 20, 2025. He was born December 7,1933, in Hospers, Iowa, to Jack and Arlene Gebauer. James grew up in Iowa and Minnesota, spending much of his childhood with his maternal grandparents, Harry and Hattie Horner, on their beloved family farm.
He often chose to go to work instead of attending school, taking a job at a bowling alley setting pins by hand and always stopping for chocolate milk to share with his mom. At age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and proudly served during the Korean War. He was awarded a Purple Heart, Bronze Stars, and other honors for his service. He also served In the Air Force refueling aircraft.
After returning from the war, James and his brother would frequently have breakfast at a small-town diner, where he met the love of his life, Donna Schwarz. They were married on February 16, 1955, and together were blessed with seven children: Steve Gebauer, Robert (Phyllis) Gebauer, Darwin Gebauer, James (Laurie) Gebauer, Julie (Rick) Kuiper, Nanette (Mark) Gorrell, and Michael (Dotty) Gebauer.
James leaves behind a legacy of love through his 22 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great- grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Donna, his parents, and five brothers:
He is survived by his children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and his brother Donnie.
At James's request, services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his memory to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Dad/ Poppy/ Grandpa- you will forever live in our hearts,
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of James Gebauer, please visit our floral store.