A notable event took place in Sioux City on Thursday, when the burial of former boxing champion George Foreman a year ago was publicly announced.
Amid a gathering of more than 10 Foreman family members at downtown City Hall, the closely guarded secret was revealed. They visited the grave shortly before that press event, with a new distinctive memorial marker erected.
Sioux City Mayor Bob Scott said, “I can’t believe we kept it a secret.”
Scott said it was a notable day, which came about because Foreman visited Siouxland in 1988 and took a quick liking to the peaceful scenery and people.
Family members George Foreman Jr. and Natalie Foreman told Siouxland Public Media their father knew people in Omaha and broadened his travel along Interstate 29.
Foreman Jr said, “There’s a saying called Iowa nice. Have you heard that? Iowa nice. He was nice, but he wasn't from Iowa, but this all makes sense now.”
Foreman, who died in March 2025, said he wanted to be buried in Iowa.
Family members had heard his praise for Iowa, so they came from Texas on April 17, 2025, and laid him to rest at Logan Park Cemetery in Sioux City.
In a statement, the family said, ““Our father lived a life of purpose, faith and gratitude. To see him laid to rest in a place that brought him peace means everything to us.”
Foreman won an Olympics gold medal in 1968, and became the world heavyweight champion in 1973. In several second acts, he popularized George Foreman Grill to huge sales and also was a minister, author and public speaker.
Son George Foreman IV thanked Siouxland people for kindness to his father and family, and encouraged people to live like his Dad, with joy and care for others.
"He would have been so proud for us to be here, because the kindest, most joyful and happy people are right here in Iowa," he said.
Additionally, Foreman family members presented a red boxing glove autographed by the boxing icon to Mayor Scott.
