Howard Mentzer, age 93 of Nemaha, IA, passed away on Friday, July 9, 2021, at Park Place Assisted Living in Sac City, IA.
Howard Leland Mentzer was born on June 12, 1928, at home in rural Sac County to parents Ralph Benjamin and Marion Evaline (Parker) Mentzer. He grew up in rural Early where he graduated from Early High School. After graduation, Howard enlisted to serve his country in the United States Army.
On February 17, 1952, Howard and Betty McKay were united in marriage. They were blessed with five children: Keith, Wayne, Karen, Daniel, and Matthew. After a brief time in Germany, they raised their family on a farm between Odebolt and Early where Howard farmed and raised cattle. In 1992 he was awarded Iowa Masters Corn Grower Champion with 206.69 bushels per acre.
Howard enjoyed collecting old tractors and going for tractor rides. He liked woodworking, intarsia and carving. He was also proud to have a Ford GPW military jeep that he restored and took for joy rides.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Keith (Kathy) Mentzer of Early, IA, Karen (Wayne) Werner of Schaller, IA, Daniel Mentzer of Iowa City, IA; Matthew (Katherine) Mentzer of Eldridge, IA; grandchildren: Curtis (Kelly Burke) Mentzer, Kristina (Bradley) Spence, Michael Mentzer, Michael (Angie) Mentzer, Michelle (Jeff) Johnstone, Stephannie (Aaron) Culbert, Trenton (Diana) Werner, Clayton (Ying) Werner, Ryan Mentzer, Sophia Mentzer; great-grandchildren: Isaia and Mariana Martinez, Maddux Spence, Colton and Caden Mentzer, Lucas Smith, Aubrey and Sydney Johnstone, Logan and Kyra Gibbins, Allen Brenner, Daynia and Tristan Werner; many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Howard was preceded in death by his wife Betty Mentzer; son Wayne Everett Mentzer; parents Ralph and Marion Mentzer; brothers Homer, Russell, Don and Raymond; sisters Lola Stoneberg and Joyce Mason; Betty’s parents and siblings.
In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials be made to the Odebolt Legion Auxillary P.O. Box 464, Odebolt, IA 51458 or to the United Methodist Church, 120 4th Ave N, Nemaha, IA 50567.
