Gary Lee Determan

Gary Determan, known affectionately as Mr. D, was a beloved teacher, husband, father, and friend whose warmth and kindness made the world a brighter place. On December 1, 2025, Gary’s earthly struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease came to an end, gently answered by the very God to whom his family had entrusted their prayers for comfort and peace.

Born on February 9, 1942, in Carroll, Iowa to Melvin and Phyllis Determan, Gary grew up in Breda, Iowa, graduating from St. Bernard’s Catholic School in 1960. Whether he was pitching for the Breda Bobcats or helping out at Determan’s Store, Gary’s gentle spirit and work ethic were ever apparent. He continued his journey at Loras College, then Morningside College, where he earned his bachelor’s in English in 1966. Always dedicated to education and safety, Gary furthered his studies at Westmar and Central Missouri University, earning a master’s and specialist degree in Safety Education.

He began his career at Central High School before launching a remarkable 38-year legacy as Bishop Heelan Catholic High School’s cherished Driver’s Ed teacher. “Crash”—a playful nickname from his peers—was a badge of courage, earned through brave hours spent alongside budding teen drivers. His classroom was filled with laughter, patience, and stories (some of which may still make the rounds at Heelan today). Even in retirement, Gary’s devotion to young people led him to teach all summer across various Siouxland school districts.

In August 1965, Gary married the love of his life, Janice Polking, beginning a 60-year partnership built on deep faith and unwavering love. Together they raised three children—Jon (Liz), Jill (Philip McCaulley), and Nick—nurturing their family with the same gentleness and humor that Gary extended to everyone he met. He adored his seven grandchildren: Ali, Drew, Seth, Jackson, Henry, Trice, and Ecyla.

Gary’s faith was central to his life. A daily communicant when healthy, he found solace and strength in his Catholic beliefs, which were especially poignant in his final days as he made the Sign of the Cross and uttered prayers with loving guidance. His devotion was an inspiration to all who witnessed it.

Gary was a true Crusader: loyal to Bishop Heelan, devoted to the Iowa State Cyclones and the Army Black Knights, and a passionate St. Louis Cardinals fan. He found simple pleasures in yardwork and car-washing, his laughter echoing through the neighborhood. Friends will smile remembering his unique collection of miniature liquor bottles—a hobby sparked in high school by a gift from Fr. Hausman.

His capacity to love and give was matched only by his humility. Gary never met a stranger, and every person in his life—students, friends, colleagues, family—counts it a blessing to have known him.

Gary is survived by his devoted wife Janice, his children and grandchildren, his sisters Mary O’Keeffe and Jeanne Boeckman, and his brother Jim (Jean) Determan.

The Determan family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of St. Croix Hospice and Cornerstone Home Care. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gary’s name may be made to Bishop Heelan Catholic Schools.

If the world had more people like Gary Determan, surely it would be a kinder, gentler place. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith, and service endures.