(Des Moines) Governor Kim Reynolds has ordered flags flown at half-staff from sunrise on Friday, September 18, 2026, until sunset on Sunday, September 20, 2026, in honor and remembrance of Ray Gaesser.
A former president of the Iowa and American Soybean Associations, Gaesser was a respected agriculture and conservation leader statewide and across the country. He also served as chair of the Iowa Conservative Energy Forum, the Iowa Department of Transportation Commission, and was involved with numerous other boards and organizations. Gaesser died September 5, 2026, after a farm accident.
In a statement issued last week, Governor Reynolds said of Ray Gaesser: “He will long be remembered as one of our greatest farmers, innovators, and advocates. Known for his work in biofuels and conservation practices, he set high standards and led by example. He was ready and willing to serve whenever asked, giving so much of himself to so many causes, and always with purpose and intention.”
Flags will be flown at half-staff on the State Capitol Building and on flag displays in the Capitol Complex. Flags will also be at half-staff on all public buildings, grounds, and facilities throughout the state.
Individuals, businesses, schools, municipalities, counties, and other government subdivisions are encouraged to fly the flag at half-staff for the same length of time as a sign of respect.
