Gordon Massman's Obituary
John Gordon Massman, age 90, of Centerville, formerly of Moravia, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 22, 2026. His loving wife Shirley was by his side as she has been for over 69 years.
Gordon was born on December 20, 1935 to Lloyd and Martha (Medland) Massman, in Melrose, Iowa. He grew up on the family farm near Iconium and graduated from Moravia High School in 1954. After the unexpected death of his father, he dedicated himself to operating the farm.
On May 25, 1957, Gordon married Shirley Flahive at St. Mary's Church in Albia. They were blessed with four children, Marty, Ed, Lori, and Jeanne. Their thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren brought much happiness to Gordon. In return, his quick smile and an endearing sense of humor brought much joy and many fond memories to them.
In 1958, Gordon turned from farming to a career in construction. This became his life's work and the results can be seen all across Southern Iowa. From the Red Rock Dam, to St. Mary's in Albia, the Monroe County Hospital, 22 schools, and many municipal buildings, his hard work and skill helped shape our communities. After working many years for Francis Peters Construction, Gordon founded his own company, Gordon Massman Construction in 1983. This company grew and flourished until 2005 when he and Shirley retired. Their first project in retirement was more construction. They designed and built a beautiful new home in Centerville where they entertained family and friends for many years.
Gordon served the local community in many roles. He was a leader in both 4-H and Cub Scouts, a long serving member of Moravia's School Board, and a member of the Area 15 Education Agency. He was a faithful member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and a 4th Degree in the Knights of Columbus.
Gordon was a devoted husband, loving father, true friend, and valued community member. He has left for us an example of hard work and good fun. He will be greatly missed.
Those left to honor Gordon's memory include Shirley, his wife of 69 years; children: Marty (Mary) Massman of Grinnell, Ed (Alcie) Massman of Dallas, Lori Topp of Ames, Jeanne (Brian) Hodgin of Bettendorf; thirteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.
Gordon was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, LaVern Massman; and his sister, Helen Printy.
Visitation will take place Monday, June 29, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville, with the family greeting friends from 9:00AM-10:30AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30AM Monday, June 29, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Centerville with Fr. Ron Hodges officiating. Burial will follow at 1PM at Hillcrest Cemetery in Moravia. Memorials have been established to either the Albia Fairgrounds Building Project or St. Mary's Catholic Church, and may be mailed to Thomas Funeral Home, ATTN: Massman Family, 501 North 18th Street, Centerville, Iowa 52544. Condolences may be shared online at https://www.thomasfh.com or https://www.facebook.com/thomasfuneralhome .
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