Obituary

Roger Kimball, age 84, passed away peacefully on August 24, 2024, at the VA's Community Living Center after a prolonged illness. He was born on November 28, 1939, in Spirit Lake, Iowa, to Lloyd and Frieda (Kelz) Kimball.

Roger grew up on the family farm in Everly as the 6th of 12 children. During his school years, he was actively involved in various activities: 4H and agriculture, baseball, basketball, school plays, Vice President of the Pop Club, Class President and Class Vice President. He graduated from Everly High School in 1957, where his yearbook motto read, "Not learned, but learning" - a philosophy he embraced throughout his life.

After high school, he enlisted in the army. He served from October 1, 1962 - October 2, 1964, where he worked in administration. He joined the Iron Workers Local 67 in June 1960 and retired in January of 2011, but continued to consult with them well after his retirement.

Roger was married to Lynn Cochran on October 3, 1997. With Lynn, he had daughters Kaitlin in 1996, Rachel in 1997, and stepdaughter, Breianna, who he treated as his own. Though they later divorced, they reconciled, and he enjoyed her company in his final year.

Faith was an important part of Roger’s life, and he exemplified that until his final days. A member of the Philadelphia Church of God, he led a weekly congregation in his home for many years.

An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoyed trips around Saylorville Lake. He ran 13 marathons, many well into his 70s, and qualified for the Boston Marathon.

Roger also cherished the simple pleasures. He loved sitting down at the kitchen table with his daughters for a few hands of gin. He enjoyed reminiscing about playing gin with his brothers and sisters growing up, and telling stories about when his family farm first got electricity and how he’d have to use the outhouse in negative 50-degree weather. He loved beef stew and eating half a gallon of ice cream before bed. He enjoyed being outside in the sun and his lawn was his pride and joy. He also loved a good pair of starched pants.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Charlotte Duff, Arlene “Poots” Nova, and Mary Schwisow; brother Jerome “Jerry” and his wife Beverly; brothers-in-law: Lester Dykstra, Wally Nova, Bill Smith, Terry Brown, and Loyal Schwisow.

Survived by his three daughters, Breianna, Kaitlin, and Rachel; ex-wife, Lynn; and siblings: Barbara Dykstra, Sharon (Richard) Weeden, Joan (Harlan) Dirks, Donald (Aming) Kimball, Jill Smith, Jean Brown and Kent (Joan) Kimball; and many nieces and nephews all over the US.

The family would like to extend thanks to the VA’s Community Living Center and their staff, who helped Roger pass in peace. A special thanks to nurse Rob, who was Roger’s favorite.

There will be no funeral, however a private burial is forthcoming. Roger will be laid to rest in the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, IA.


ILES-WESTOVER CHAPEL

To send flowers or a remembrance gift to the family of Roger Kimball, please visit our Tribute Store.