Gaylen Lee TenHulzen, 76, of Sioux City, Iowa, entered into eternal rest Saturday August 1, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at Unity Point Hospital. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, faithful Catholic, and respected business leader, Gaylen leaves behind a legacy of generosity, compassion, unwavering faith, and deep love for those closest to him.

Gaylen was born on August 17, 1949, in Lincoln, Nebraska, to Orville and Jean (Heetlage) TenHulzen. He was raised on the family farm near Adams, Nebraska, where he developed the strong work ethic, humility, and practical wisdom that would define his life. He graduated from Adams High School before attending the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1971.

While attending the University of Nebraska, Gaylen met the love of his life, Catherine Walter, in 1969. They were married on June 26, 1971, in Geneva, Nebraska, and shared 55 wonderful years together. When asked what made their marriage so strong, their answer was simple: communication. Their marriage was rooted in faith, mutual respect, unwavering commitment, and enduring love.

Following graduation, Gaylen began his professional career as a junior auditor with the Nebraska Department of Insurance. In 1983, he and Catherine relocated their family to Sioux City, Iowa, where he joined Great West Casualty Company. What began as a career became a second home. Through dedication, exceptional leadership, and professional excellence, Gaylen rose to become Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer before retiring in 2014. During his career, he also earned the Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) designation.

In 1977, Gaylen embraced the Catholic faith, a decision that profoundly shaped the remainder of his life. As a faithful member of Nativity Catholic Church in Sioux City, he served as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, was a dedicated member of the Parish Finance Committee for more than twenty years and faithfully volunteered at parish fish dinners and numerous church activities. His faith was evident not only in his service to the Church but also in the kindness, generosity, and quiet example he set for others each day.

Above all else, Gaylen treasured his family. He is lovingly survived by his wife, Catherine TenHulzen; his sons, Matthew TenHulzen and his daughters, Breanna and Madison; Mike and Holly TenHulzen and their children, Zachary, Daniel, Calvin, and Faith; Mark and Jennifer TenHulzen and their daughters, Avery, Harper, and Bailee; and Joseph TenHulzen. He is also survived by his sister, Judy Kruger, of Jefferson, Missouri.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Jean TenHulzen.

Family was the center of Gaylen's life. One of their favorite traditions was spending a week together every summer at Lake Okoboji, creating memories that would be cherished for generations. One family vacation, Gaylen repeatedly played the soundtrack from Dances with Wolves (his favorite movie) along with Dire Straits' "Walk of Life." He enjoyed them so much that he played them over and over during the drive until the kids insisted they never wanted to hear those songs again. Years later, those songs became treasured reminders of family vacations, laughter, and unforgettable moments with their beloved Papa.

Gaylen found joy in the simple pleasures of life—spending time with his family, golfing, woodworking, listening to music, and reading the daily newspaper. His woodworking talents filled the homes of his children and grandchildren with handcrafted furniture made with care and love. Among his most treasured creations was a beautiful wooden cradle that welcomed each of his grandchildren during their infancy, becoming a lasting symbol of his love for future generations.

He also treasured the friendships he built over the years. Whether solving the world's problems or simply enjoying each other's company, countless hours were spent in the garage surrounded by his close circle of friends. Those gatherings brought him immeasurable happiness and laughter. His family often joked that time in the garage with his friends was better medicine than anything a doctor could prescribe.

Those who knew Gaylen will fondly remember his signature response of "Whatever," often delivered with a smile, and the way every goodbye ended the same way: "Love you. Take care." Those simple words perfectly reflected the gentle, caring man he was and will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

Visitation

A rosary will be held at 4:00pm on Wednesday, August 5. A visitation will be held from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with a Vigil immediately following at:

Meyer Brothers Morningside Chapel 6200 Morningside Avenue Sioux City, Iowa 51106

Mass of Christian Burial

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 6, at 11:00 a.m. at Nativity Catholic Church, Sioux City, Iowa.

Memorials

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in honor of Gaylen to support wound care services at UnityPoint Health - St. Lukes in gratitude for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Gaylen throughout his journey.

Gifts may be sent to:

St. Luke’s Foundation 2720 Stone Park Boulevard Sioux City, IA 51104

Whatever. Love you. Take Care.