Donald "Spike" Einspahr

Donald H. “Spike” Einspahr, age 80, of Odebolt, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, May 18, 2004, at Mercy Regency Medical Center in Sioux City, Iowa.

Donald was born on June 5, 1923, in Odebolt, the son of Harold and Dorothy (Thayer) Einspahr. He was a life long resident of Odebolt, graduating from Odebolt High School in 1942. Following graduation he entered the Marine Corps on March 3, 1945, and received his training at Parris Island, SC. He served from November 27, 1945 through June 24, 1946 with the occupational forces in Japan, and was honorably discharged on August 18, 1946.

On August 15, 1948, Donald was united in marriage to Matilda “Til” H. Jentzen at Zion Lutheran Church in Arcadia, IA. They made their home in Odebolt and were blessed with a son, Jerry.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Odebolt and held various offices in the “Voters Assembly.”

Donald was the proud owner of Einspahr Furniture Store in Odebolt, which he started in 1960, and was still an active co-owner along with his son, Jerry. Donald, better known as “Spike”, enjoyed golfing, fishing, and was an avid spectator sportsman. Spike and Til loved to travel and had special memories of many trips including: New York, Hawaii, Switzerland, and Cancun, Mexico.

Survivors include his wife, Matilda Einspahr; his son, Jerry and his wife Deb Einspahr of Odebolt, Iowa, and her children Chris and Kayla.

Donald’s parents; stepfather, J.W. Carlson; and a sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Dick Gardner, preceded him in death.

Funeral services for Donald will be Saturday, May 22, 2004, 10:30 a.m., at Trinity Lutheran Church in Odebolt, with Reverend Albert Buelow officiating. Special music provided by Rod Schneider, soloist, and Jim and Kris Kistenmacher, duet, accompanied by Phyllis Kies. Lucy Huldeen and Donna Schoeder will take care of the flower arrangements. Pallbearers include: Howard Hustedt, Kevin Carstensen, Larry Beckman, Larry Thome, Grant Thayer, and George Dosch.

Interment will be at the Odebolt Cemetery under the direction of Farber & Otteman Funeral Home. There will be a presentation of the flag by the Odebolt American Legion Post No. 313.

Visitation is Friday, May 21st, from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. with family present from 5:00 – 8:00. Friends who wish to send condolences may do so online.