Gregory Guetzko

GREGORY VAN GUETZKO

Cedar Rapids

Gregory Van Guetzko, 62, formerly of Mount Vernon, passed away Sunday, Nov. 20, 2016, surrounded by his family after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Memorial service: 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 25, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories with visitation one hour before the service. Please feel free to wear your jeans or Carhartts, Greg's favorite attire.

Born in Cedar Rapids on May 23, 1954, Greg was the only child of Louis and Elgene (Jennerjohn) Guetzko. Greg attended Kennedy High School, Kirkwood Community College and the University of Wisconsin - Madison. He held degrees in forestry and horticulture, studied landscape architecture and was an Iowa Certified Nurseryman.

Greg managed two of the Earl May Nursery and Garden Centers in Cedar Rapids, where he was employed for over 35 years. With the help of his staff he won multiple awards. In 2011, he founded Total Lawn and Landscape Care LLC. For the past five years, Greg returned to the part of landscaping he truly loved designing, installing and maintaining landscapes and working directly with customers. He prided himself on honest, personal and high quality service. Greg loved going on jobs with his dog Sherman at his side every day.

An avid outdoorsman, Greg loved nature, fishing and hunting.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Carol, and two daughters, Amy (Ethan Thompson) and Ali (Aron Sweet). Greg also leaves behind the apple of his eye, granddaughter, Elena; and several cousins, in-laws and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to S.A.I.N.T. (Saving Animals In Need Today) Rescue or Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation in memory of Greg.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.