Toby Godfrey

Toby Godfrey, 73, lifelong resident of Marshalltown, passed away peacefully and with much dignity at home Sunday evening, December 26, 2021 after a brave battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his loving family and under the care of Iowa River Hospice. Toby came into the world on December 29, 1947, the only child of Glen and Rosa (Dobbs) Godfrey. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1967.  The following spring he met Janice “Jan” Kunkel and after a few months of dating, he told her she was the perfect woman and he was going to marry her.  They were united in marriage on August 24, 1968 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Marshalltown. They created a beautiful life and legacy together, raising their four children.  Toby had a larger than life personality and a strong passion for bettering the community he lived in. His smile was contagious and he had a knack for making everyone, even strangers, laugh and feel wonderful. He was generous, likable and always wanted the best for everyone, especially for his family. Those that were around Toby could say there was “never a dull moment” as he was quite the character and always entertaining.  Toby’s combination of drive and determination, his skillful ability to do anything and his no-fear approach to taking risks led to a colorful career with many facets.  He began selling cars in 1969 and after working for and managing various dealerships, he decided to open Godfrey Motors. He later opened Cabs of Marshalltown and Airport Express along with his wife, Janice. His successful business/investing sense also led him to purchasing and farming beginning in the late 80’s in which he thoroughly enjoyed, mainly as a “hobby,”  with his parents, Glen and Rosa. His spontaneity also led him to buying the local BP in 2015 (along with his son, Jason) and owning and operating that until 2018, at which time they sold the business.  In his free time, Toby enjoyed boating, horse racing, farming, any sort of home or outdoor projects (I think he especially loved operating all his big boy toys such as his back hoe), restoring his ‘68 Camaro, spending time with his kids, grandkids and granddogs. His selfless heart kept him busy as he always was helping others.  He loved traveling, especially his recurring trips to Las Vegas with his wife.  Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 53 years, Jan; his children: Paul Godfrey, Kendra Godfrey-Davis and Jason Godfrey; his granddaughter, Kallie Davis; grandsons: Cole Davis and Jackson Godfrey; grand-dogs: Baby and Cash and several other relatives. In death, he is reunited with his son, David; his parents, Glen and Rosa Godfrey and his in-laws, Urban and Colleen Kunkel. Per the wishes of Toby and his family, cremation rites have been accorded under the care of the Mitchell Family Funeral Home. A private visitation and ceremony with his family will take place on Thursday. A combined family-led celebration of life for Toby and his son, David will take place Friday, January 21st from 4:30 to 7:00 P.M. at Elmwood Country Club. In lieu of flowers and casseroles (lol), memorial contributions may be directed to the family for later designation. For questions or to leave a condolence, please visit www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234.