Gordon Ray Toland

Gordon Ray Toland -- loving father, husband, adventurer, prankster, social butterfly, and kind-hearted soul -- peacefully passed away on December 24, 2022 after a wonderful, adventurous life. He was born March 8, 1928 in Dickens, Iowa to Harold and Myrtle (Chambers) Toland. Growing up on a little farm with three brothers taught Gordon that every day is an adventure -- something he believed in for the remainder of his days.

Gordon graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Psychology and attended 2 years of Law School at Drake University, but ultimately found his calling in the Air Force as a jet fighter pilot. He bought his first airplane at age 19 and fell in love with flying, making it central to his career. While serving his country in the military, Gordon was stationed all around the world from Germany to Iceland to Formosa (Taiwan). He also taught aviation and was later a commercial pilot for Shelter Insurance. One of his favorite stories to tell was how he once met and flew Bob Hope while flying for Shelter!

He also loved music and had a beautiful voice to rival Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. He enjoyed using his gift to glorify God and was a longtime member of the choir at First Presbyterian Church. Faith was everything to Gordon and it is a comfort to know he is rejoicing with his Savior now.

He is survived by his wife, Sonia Toland; daughters Leslie Toland (Jordan Gobely), Karen Toland (David Dausel), Marcia Toland (Mike Crelli); grandchildren Simon Crelli, Rose Crelli, Laif Toland, Maya Toland and Jada Toland.

In addition to his parents, Gordon was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles, Ardon, and Donald Toland; as well as a son, Brian Toland.

Services will be on Friday, January 20, 2023 at Memorial Funeral Home, 1217 Business Loop 70 West in Columbia. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am with a Celebration of Life taking place at 12:00 pm. Interment with full military honors will take place at Memorial Park Cemetery.