Ival Leon Gressley, 98, of Wabash, Indiana, died at 2:12 am, Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at The Waters of Wabash East. He was born on October 13, 1927, in Roann, Indiana, to Henry and Lena (Copeland) Gressley.
Ival built his life around hard work, independence, and simple joys. For several years he was a self-employed contractor, later spending time at Wilkinson Lumber in Wabash. He eventually returned to self-employment as a truck driver, a role that suited his quiet determination and love of staying busy. At home, Ival found happiness in the everyday-mowing his yard, planting his flowers, eating out, and sharing his days with his beloved dogs, especially Lilly, who rarely left his side. Ival enjoyed listening to country music, and watching westerns, especially Clint Walker movies.
He is survived by five children: Ival Gressley, Jr. of Easley, South Carolina, Jeffrey (Sherry) Gressley of Wabash, Ricky Gressley of Fort Laramie, Ohio, Kenneth (Emma) Gressley of Andrews, Indiana, and Susan (Bruce) Colgan of Deer Creek, Indiana; 13 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Sherman and Minor Gressley, and two sisters, Betty Treska and Bernice Meek.
There will be a celebration of Ival’s life at a later date. Arrangements by Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, Wabash.
Preferred memorial is Animal Shelter of Wabash County.
The memorial guest book for Ival may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
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