Gary W. Rice

Gary W. Rice, 80, of Ottawa, Kansas passed away at his home Thursday, May 28, 2020. Private graveside services will be held at Highland Cemetery, Ottawa. Gary was born November 26, 1939 in Ottawa, the son of William H. and Ruby (Fritts) Rice. He was a lifelong Ottawa resident graduating from Ottawa High School with the class of 1957. On January 25, 1963 Gary was united in marriage to Barbara Dryden at Franklin County. They were married 57 years and had two sons, Rob and Ron. Gary was a hard-working farmer and raised livestock. He was also employed with Bendix Mobile Homes in Ottawa from the 1960’s to 1970’s in construction, installation, and delivery. He returned to farming and was a livestock handler with the Franklin County Sale Barn. He was a member of The Power of the Past. Gary enjoyed going to auctions, buying and selling, and was a people person who always enjoyed visiting. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Ruby Rice, and sister, Sharon Brown. Survivors include his wife Barbara of the home; two sons, Rob Rice of Lawrence, and Ron Rice also of Lawrence; and sister, Darlene (Bill) Lister of Ottawa. The family suggests memorial contributions to The Power of the Past c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.