Gary John Mautz, 79, of Underwood, died Sunday, October 12, 2025, in Rapid City, SD. A memorial service will be held at Goetz Funeral Home Chapel, Washburn, on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Following the memorial service burial will be in the Underwood Cemetery.

He was born on August 3, 1946, on Mallard Island — before it became an island — to Herbert and Theresa Mautz. Gary's early years were spent on the family farm in the Wolf Creek area, where his father farmed the land. When the government relocated the family, moving their white barn down Hwy 83, they settled on a farm near Underwood, where Gary spent most of his life.

Gary was the life of the party — a great guy who could light up any room he walked into. He had a gift for making people laugh, often with a well-timed, good-natured joke.  Beneath his humor was a heart full of kindness and loyalty.  He was a pool shark who had a hard time finding any real competition in the area — a friendly rival and a good sport who always enjoyed the game.  He loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and bowling, but his greatest joy came from his family. Gary never missed his kids' basketball or football games, cheering them on with pride and enthusiasm.

He is survived by his three children: Kayla Trombetta and her husband Troy, Laura Barlow and her husband Dustin, and Josh Sims and his partner Stephanie Jamerson; his sister, Betty Hovey and her husband Bob; and his brother-in-law, Wayne Lunde.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Theresa Mautz, and his sister, Linda Lunde.

Gary's legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren — Hailey, Emily, Maycee, Giana, Eva, Cason, and Olivia — who will always remember his laughter, warmth, and love.

Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. His laughter, competitive spirit, and love for life will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.