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Gary Alvord
Gary Alvord, 77, of Urbandale and formerly of Anna Maria Island, died July 25.
He was born Sept. 27, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Harry and Thelma (Bennett) Alvord. His family moved frequently during his childhood but eventually settled back in Des Moines.
He had a 27-year career with Ruan Transportation, ending as the company’s president & COO in 2000. He then founded 3PL, a transportation logistics business that grew to over 300 employees.
After retirement in 2008, Mr. Alvord continued to serve on various boards as he and wife Pam split their time between Des Moines and their beloved Anna Maria Island. They became permanent island residents in 2016.
He served as president of the Key Royale Club in Holmes Beach before returning to Des Moines in 2023 as his health declined.
A funeral service was planned for Aug. 6 in West Des Moines.
Memorial contributions may be made to the East High School Alumni Foundation or the Lutheran Church of Hope. Online condolences are welcome at ilescares.com. Arrangements were by Iles Dunn’s Chapel.
Mr. Alvord is survived by wife Pam; children Jen and husband Patrick Corkrean of Des Moines, Andi and Jamie Laine of Norwalk; grandchildren Kate and Erin Corkrean, Will, Max, and Lily Laine; brother, Mark Alvord of Ankeny.