March 29, 2024

Myron Lee VanHouweling

Aug. 15, 2019

Myron Lee VanHouweling, 76, passed away Aug. 15, 2019, at the Comfort Home in Pella, after sharing memories with his wife and family throughout the evening. Myron and his wife, Susan, resided in rural Prairie City, in a home on the same road where Myron spent his entire life. They’ve wintered in Donna, Texas, 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 marshal. Before retiring from dairy operations, Myron was the longest standing herdsman at the Iowa State Fair where he showed Brown Swiss cows for more than 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 five children and has two step-children including Merri (Jeff) DeReus, Mindy (Tim) McCarthy, Mark (Cheryl) VanHouweling, Kyle (Wanda) VanHouweling, Aaron VanHouweling, Brian (Lisa) McAdams and Ryan McAdams; grandchildren, 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 three sisters, Dorothy (Bob) Cage, Carolyn (Tom) Bollman and Linda (Jerry) VandeKieft.

A service for Myron will begin at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 20 at the First Reformed Church in Prairie City. A light meal will be served after, with committal following at Waveland Cemetery. Visitation with family will precede the services from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19 at the same location. Please stop by and share in casual celebration.

A memorial is being established and gifts can be written to one of the family members.