Gary L. “Smiley” Bloore

Gary L. “Smiley” Bloore

Maquoketa

Gary L. “Smiley” Bloore, 79, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, after a five-year battle with Lewy Body Dementia.

Gary Lee Bloore was born on July 7, 1946 in Clinton, IA, to Arthur L. “Art” and Norma L. (Wulf) Bloore. He grew up on the family farm in Clinton County, near Maquoketa, and attended Elwood School and later moved to Maquoketa, where he became a beloved figure in the community. His friendly demeanor and love for conversation made him a local favorite, especially at Mel’s Super Value grocery store, where he worked in carryout and earned his enduring nickname, "Smiley."

In pursuit of further education, Gary obtained his GED at Maquoketa High School in 1970, attending night classes with determination and resilience. With support from the Iowa Employment Agency, he began his career at Oakdale Hospital as a dishwasher. His strong work ethic and desire to connect with others led him to the University of Iowa Food Service Department, where he started in 1971. Gary dedicated many years to the college cafeterias, including Currier Hall, Hillcrest Hall, and finally retiring from Burge Hall on May 12, 2016. His retirement was filled with the joy of attending sporting events, a testament to his love for the community and its activities.

Smiley's passion for sports and his community was unmatched. He was honored with a banner featuring his photograph in downtown Iowa City, welcoming visitors and celebrating his spirit. His presence at games was a familiar and comforting sight, and many were happy to offer him rides to and from these events. Each year, he celebrated his birthday with the Clear Creek Amana softball team, a tradition that brought him immense happiness. Smiley's friendships were a testament to his kind nature and the positive impact he had on those around him.

Those left to honor his memory include his brother Don (Marcia) Bloore of Mishawaka, IN; sister, Jean (Dave) Kent of DeWitt, IA; nieces and nephews, Heidi and Chris Scott, Jon and Tara Bloore, Becky and Todd Muhl, and Matt and Andrea Kent; great-nieces and nephews, James Cusick, Austin and Landon Muhl, Jordan and Drew Volrath, Alyssa and Justin Adams; great-great-nieces and -nephew, Ava Grace Volrath, Cayde Volrath, and Millie Mae Adams. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Diane.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 a.m. to noon at the funeral home. Burial will follow at the Elwood, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or the Elwood Christian Church.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.CarsonAndSon.com.