George Foreman, Texas Native, Laid to Rest in Iowa

Foreman's family reveals why the boxing legend chose to be buried in Sioux City

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:05pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a boxing match or training session, with sharp planes of deep red, brown, and ochre colors creating a dynamic, multi-angled composition.A cubist interpretation of the legendary boxer George Foreman's lasting connection to the Sioux City, Iowa landscape.Sioux City Today

Former world heavyweight champion boxer George Foreman, who was from Texas, passed away in 2025 and was laid to rest in Sioux City, Iowa. Foreman's family revealed that decades ago, he had expressed a desire to be buried in the Sioux City area, captivated by the region's picturesque landscapes and sense of peace.

Why it matters

Foreman's choice to be buried in Iowa, rather than his home state of Texas, highlights the lasting impact a place can have on someone, even after just a brief visit. The story showcases how Foreman's connection to the Sioux City area reflects the kindness and community spirit that the region is known for.

The details

According to Foreman's son George Foreman Jr., the boxing legend told him in 1984 that he wanted to be buried in Sioux City. Foreman was drawn to the area's Loess Hills state forest and the overall beauty of the landscape. When Foreman's family visited Sioux City after his passing, they said the area looked exactly as Foreman had described, and they felt a sense of peace and comfort there.

  • George Foreman passed away on March 21, 2025.
  • Foreman was laid to rest at Logan Park Cemetery in Sioux City on April 17, 2025.
  • A memorial honoring Foreman was placed at Logan Park earlier that week.

The players

George Foreman

A former world heavyweight champion boxer who was from Texas but chose to be buried in Sioux City, Iowa.

George Foreman Jr.

Foreman's son, who revealed his father's long-held desire to be buried in Sioux City.

George Foreman V

Foreman's grandson, who said the Sioux City area looked exactly as his grandfather had described it.

Bob Scott

The mayor of Sioux City, who received a signed boxing glove from the Foreman family as a symbol of their gratitude.

Rex Mueller

The Sioux City police chief who attended the memorial event for Foreman.

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What they’re saying

“He told me that in '84. He said, 'I'm not playing.'”

— George Foreman Jr., Foreman's son

“Once I got here, it all started making sense. It was very picturesque. He loved beautiful landscapes.”

— George Foreman V, Foreman's grandson

“George, especially in his later years, he had this mantra, he would say, 'George Foreman is the happiest of all time.' He would have been so proud for us to be here because the kindness, most joyful and happy people are right here in Iowa, and I got to see it first hand. He carried that with him everywhere he went, the kindness.”

— George Foreman IV, Foreman's son

“We just felt a sense of peace. We knew we were in the right place.”

— Natalie Foreman-Wynn, Foreman's daughter

“You'll never understand what you did for us during an impossible time in our life. Forever grateful to you.”

— George Foreman Jr., Foreman's son

What’s next

The Foreman family plans to continue working with the city of Sioux City to maintain Foreman's memorial and honor his legacy in the community.

The takeaway

George Foreman's choice to be buried in Sioux City, Iowa, rather than his home state of Texas, demonstrates the profound impact a place can have on someone, even after just a brief visit. Foreman's connection to the region's natural beauty and kind-hearted people reflects the lasting impressions that can be formed in the most unexpected ways.