Jody Curtis Wanken

Jody Curtis Wanken, 71, of Eldora, Iowa, formerly of Conrad, passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Per the wishes of Jody and his family, cremation rites have been accorded and a celebration of life will take place on Saturday, May 6 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. Memorials may be directed to the Animal Rescue League, the American Legion or the American Legion Auxiliary. For questions or condolences, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.

Jody was born on March 7, 1952 in Fort Dodge, Iowa to parents Edwin and Evon (Wergeland) Wanken. After graduating from Boone Valley High School in 1970, he went on to obtain his certification in Farm Power from Iowa Central Community College. Jody grew up with the girl down the street, Laura Gist, and the two fell in love. They were united in marriage on August 23, 1974 and lived in Hardy, Iowa. In 1981, they moved to Conrad, where they raised their children. Jody worked for many years as a farmer and farm mechanic. He went on to dedicate ten years as a manager at Menards before retiring and settling down in Eldora, Iowa. In his free-time, he enjoyed riding his motorcycle, fishing and hunting. As his children grew and started their own families, he loved attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and music concerts. Though his favorite pastime was pestering his kids and grandkids, his family (and their pets) meant the world to him. Jody was loud and enthusiastic with a great sense of humor. He could talk to anyone about anything and he just truly enjoyed life.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 48 years, Laura; his children: Aron (Kim) Wanken of Union, Nick Wanken (Kimberly Lechner) of Union and Heather Ward (Chad Southard) of Conrad; grandchildren: Kaytee, Edwin, McKenzie, Xavier, Shannon, Caitlin, Lane, Imagin, Allison, Brooke and Cami; five great-grandchildren; his siblings: Mark (Cindy) Wanken, Penny Palmer, Kris (Rick) Palmer and Mike (Chris) Baessler; brother-in-law Emery Wagner; sister-in-law Gaylene Gift; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jody is preceded in death by his dad, Edwin Wanken; his mom and stepdad, Evon and Keith Baessler; siblings: Richard Wanken, Paul Wanken, Thomas Baessler and Richard Baessler; brother-in-law, Randy Palmer and sister-in-law, Shirley Wagner.