Gary Lynn VerSteeg, age 75, passed away peacefully at home in Newton, Iowa, on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Gary was born on Dec. 25, 1950, in Newton, Iowa, to Wilbur F. VerSteeg and Martha Ann (Bachman) VerSteeg. He attended Oak Park Academy for high school and later earned his bachelor’s in English from Union College in Lincoln, Neb. On Dec. 10, 1981, Gary was united in marriage to Medianita de Sagun Reyes in Tanzania. Together they shared a life of faith, service, and love, raising their daughter, Aprille, while serving internationally for many years. Gary devoted much of his life to missionary work through the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, teaching English and touching the lives of many through his kindness, patience, and dedication. Gary and Meds retired to his childhood home in Newton, where they continued their ministry and witness through their interactions with family, neighbors, friends and their local church. He had a inquisitive, curious mind and a thoughtful, gentle spirit that stayed with him throughout his life. He was a man of few, but impactful words and kind, well-considered action. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Medianita VerSteeg; his daughter, Aprille ’05 (Josh ’03) Okimi; and his brothers, Dennis VerSteeg and Richard VerSteeg, as well as many colleagues, extended or found family, and students all around the globe. Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his infant son, Eric Allen VerSteeg; his brothers, Ronnie VerSteeg, Michael VerSteeg, Thomas VerSteeg, and Randal VerSteeg; and his sister, Debra McClurkin.