"Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Alan and Brenda Strasser"
In loving memory of
Myron Lee VanHouweling
November 28, 1942 - August 15, 2019
Myron Lee VanHouweling, age 76, passed away on August 15, 2019 at the Comfort Home in Pella, IA, after sharing memories with his wife and family throughout the evening. Myron and his wife, Susan, resided in rural Prairie City, Iowa, in a home on the same road where Myron spent his entire life. They've wintered in Donna, TX, for the last 11 years.
Myron's parents were Carl and Marie (Brand) VanHouweling who proceeded him in meeting the Lord. He graduated from Prairie City High School in 1961 and attended Iowa State University. He farmed and managed the family's dairy operation and later became a union carpenter. He loved to work with wood and to use his skills to build and create.
Myron was a member of the First Reformed Church in Prairie City. He served his community with roles on the Jasper County Fair Board over the years including President, Superintendent and Grand Marshall. Before retiring from dairy operations, Myron was the longest standing herdsman at the Iowa State Fair where he showed Brown Swiss cows for 50+ years. He passed that tradition on to his family and shared the experience with many friends. Myron and Susan also showed numerous other animals over the years. In addition to showing, Myron's dogs always held a special bond and knew their master's heart.
Myron also enjoyed remodeling, adding to and caring for his homestead, camping, boating, playing cards and anything that involved sharing fun with family and friends. He planted and grew numerous relationships in many circles over the years. He will be remembered for his personable nature. It did not take him long to turn a stranger into a friend. He was a mentor to many young people who will miss his wisdom and guidance.
Myron is survived by his wife, Susan VanHouweling; Myron raised 5 children and has 2 step-children including Merri (Jeff) DeReus, Mindy (Tim) McCarthy, Mark (Cheryl) VanHouweling, Kyle (Wanda) VanHouweling, Aaron VanHouweling, Brian (Lisa) McAdams and Ryan McAdams. Grand children, Vance (Brittney) VanHouweling, Sam DeReus, Margot (Brice) Udelhoven, Andrew McCarthy, Courtney VanHouweling, Joseph DeReus, Koby VanHouweling, Kate McCarthy and Hannah McCarthy; great grandchildren, Mylee, Skylar, Blaine and Maelynn and 3 sisters, Dorothy (Bob) Cage, Carolyn (Tom) Bollman, and Linda (Jerry) VandeKieft.
Services for Myron will be held at the First Reformed Church in Prairie City on Tuesday, August 20th, at 10:30AM. A light meal will be served after. Committal following at Waveland Cemetery. Visitation with family will precede the services at the same location on Monday, August 19th from 6:00-8:00PM. Please stop by and share in casual celebration.
A memorial is being established and gifts can be written to one of the family members.
Tributes
"Susan and family..our sincerest condolences and prayers on this sad occasion. Susan you were always so happy talking about Myron and your experiences together! May you find peace with all your memories Susan. Pat and Kerry Spaur"
"Myron became a friend of mine and was very helpful to me when I was getting involved in 4-H through my children and their 4-H activities during the late 80's and into the 90's. I always remember that and appreciated it as well. Rest in peace Myron. Marty Hosbond"
"Love this guy! Have lots of fun fair memories with he and his family! Hugs and prayers for the family."
"My condolences are with the Family. I have so many great memories of Myron with the Family. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. "
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Myron?s family and friends. RIP Myron."
"So sorry for your loss - I imagine he is still making new friends! Enjoyed knowing and working with Myron at state fair and all through his dairy years. A great respected man!"