March 28, 2024

Donald W. Ferrell

Donald Wayne Ferrell, 57, of Oelwein, Iowa, born Feb. 21, 1955, passed away on Nov. 7, 2012, at Waterloo Cedar Valley Hospice Center after a short battle with lung cancer. He was diagnosed with stage IV cancer on Oct. 12, 2012.

After spending a week in Iowa City Hospital, he was sent home on Oct. 22 to have time to get affairs in order and spend some time with his family.

On Nov. 2, 2012, Don was taken by a Hospice Care Van to Waterloo, Iowa, Cedar Valley Hospice, where he was treated with the utmost love and care by people who work for Hospice, a truly amazing organization.

Donald is survived by his mother, Nora L. Williamson of Newton, Iowa, who sat by his side right until the last mother-loving minute of his life. He also leaves behind a son, Troy Ferrell, who works in the oil fields of North Dakota; an older brother, Richard L. Ferrell of Newton, Iowa, employed at Skiff Medical Center; and a younger brother, Jerry D. Ferrell of Arvada, Colo., employed at Jefferson County Colorado.

Donald is preceded in death by his wife of 20 years, Nancy Ferrell, and also his daughter, Marie Ferrell, both of Oelwein, Iowa.

Donald grew up in Reasnor, Iowa, and graduated from Monroe High School in 1973. He served six years in the Navy on an ammunition carrier ship. After returning home, he married Nancy, and together they foster-homed many children through their marriage.

Donald expressed his wishes to be cremated and laid to rest alongside his wife and daughter in Hazelton, Iowa, at the Fontana Cemetery near their home.

A memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 17, at the Geilenfeld Funeral Home in Oelwein.