Gary W. Kranz, 82, of Quinnesec, passed away Monday, November 11, 2013, peacefully at his home. He was born July 27, 1931, in Iron Mountain, Mich., son of the late John and Jenny (Reese) Kranz. Gary attended Iron Mountain Public Schools. At age 14, he began work at Goulette's Cold Storage/Ice House, becoming the last of the area "Icemen". He married the love of his life, Barbara Lange, in 1952, and they spent 61 years devoted to each other. Gary was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1952, where he served in Korea. He sustained serious injury requiring extensive medical care; he was honorably discharged in 1953. Barb left home and relocated to help care for Gary. Eight months later, they returned to the area to raise their three sons. Gary worked at Kresge's Store, and later at the Oscar G. Johnson Veteran's Hospital, Iron Mountain until he retired. He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan, enjoyed horseshoes, cribbage, and gardening. He and Barb especially loved Christmas with their children, and enjoyed decorating their home together for the holidays, hosting many memorable family gatherings. Gary was a member of First Lutheran Church, Iron Mountain and the Michigan Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 1879. He is survived by three sons, Fraser Kranz, Goodman Wis., Aaron (Brenda) Kranz, Breitung, Twp., and Kyle (Dawn) Kranz, Kingsford; four grandchildren, Gary (Dawn), Ashlee, John, and Jacob; one step grandson, Brian Pierce, Madison, Wis., two step great- grandchildren, Zachary and Logan, DePere, Wis. In addition to his parents and wife Barbara, Gary was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Dana and Travis Kranz; one daughter-in-law, Cecilia Kranz. In accordance with Gary's wishes, private family visitation and services will be held. Rev. James Lindgren will officiate. Burial will be in Breitung Township Cemetery, Quinnesec. The Michigan Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 1879 and the American Legion Uren-Cooper Johnson Post No. 50, will accord Military Honors at graveside. You may light a candle in remembrance of Gary, or leave a condolence for his family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com The family has chosen the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron Mountain to honor Gary's Legacy of Life.