Gayland Bode

Born on October 24, 1947 in Sidney, Nebraska, to Charles and Marie Bode, Gayland lived a life marked by hard work, kindness, and a deep love for his family and community. Gayland graduated from Dalton High School and went on to attend junior college in Scottsbluff, Nebraska. He began his career with Kansas Nebraska Gas Company and later joined Xcel Energy, where he dedicated over 30 years of service.

On November 11, 1967, Gayland married the love of his life, Sylvia, in Sidney, Nebraska. In the fall of 1969, they relocated to Colorado, where they built a loving home and raised their two daughters, Paula and Shelley. Gayland was a proud grandfather to Brandee Bode and Jennifer Fry, and later becoming a great-grandfather to Wyatt Ray.

Gayland had a deep love for life and was known for his caring nature and selfless heart. He spent countless hours in his garage tinkering and fixing things — a place where his creativity and problem-solving shined. When not in the garage, he could be found on the water fishing with Sylvia, always trying to out-fish her, or out on his farm, tending the land he loved.

A man of many passions, Gayland also enjoyed racing his dwarf car, exploring the Black Hills in his side-by-side, and giving back to his community. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter with the Nunn Fire Department for 15 years.

Gayland is survived by his beloved wife Sylvia Bode; his daughter Shelley Wieker and husband Joey; granddaughter Jennifer Fry and fiancé Phil Ray; and great-grandson Wyatt Ray. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Paula Bode, granddaughter, Brandee Bode, brother Ricky Bode, and by his parents, Charles and Marie Bode.

Gayland's warm spirit, generous heart, and joyful presence will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Resthaven Funeral Home in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Donations in Gayland's memory are welcome to the Nunn Volunteer Fire Department. Treasured memories, fishing stories and words of condolence are welcome at resthavencolorado.com.