Bob Mendenhall

Robert Stephen Mendenhall peacefully passed away May 13th, 2023. Bob was born at his family home in High Point Township on July 15, 1929, to his parents, Helena Ruth (Cartwright) and Nile Stephen Mendenhall. He was the oldest of six children.

Bob was the 5th generation raised on the family farm in High Point, Iowa. He graduated as valedictorian from Garden Grove High School in 1947. After graduation he was drafted and served in the Korean War. During his time over seas he sent gifts from Japan to his soon to be wife, Hope Barton. They wed on his return at High Point Methodist Church on April 12, 1953. This was also the 100th anniversary of the Mendenhall Family Farm.

Bob and Hope were blessed with four children: Debra Jane, Mark Alan, Marty Ann, and David Isaac. Bob spent his adulthood growing crops, cattle and children. Bob’s farming career started feeding by hand to fence line bunks and a two row planter drawn by horses to a 12 row planter pulled by a tractor.

Outside the farm you could find him at local livestock auctions. He was a member of the American Legion for 68 years and a founding member of the Decatur County Cattleman’s Association. Bob had an uncanny ability to hang a nickname on someone that would stick for life. He and Hope also enjoyed square dancing and attending social events including the infamous weekly card nights with Smith’s, Vaughn’s, Johnson’s and Robinson’s. Bob and Hope took pride in hosting multi-generational family reunions. Bob treasured daily family meals where memories were made around the table.

Bob is survived by his children: Deb (Mike) Bengston , Mark (Stephanie) Mendenhall, Marty (Tom) Carney, and Sam (Jane) Mendenhall; grandchildren: Zach (Beka) Mendenhall, Ann (Eric) Hofmann, Kelsey Carney, Kalle (Martin) Carney, Justin (Alexa) Mendenhall, Libby Bengtson, Hanna Mendenhall, and Bridget Carney; great grandchildren: Ajae, Kendyl, Anessa and Joa Mendenhall, Sloan Hofmann, and Mason and Kipton Mendenhall; sisters-in-law, Lynn Mendenhall and Lila Mendenhall; and along with many nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his parents; wife; and siblings: Richard Nile, Rex Nelson, Rollie Dean, Rita Jane, and Ramon Larry.

Funeral services will be held at the High Point United Methodist Church at High Point, Iowa at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 18, 2023, with Pastor Terry D. Roberts officiating. Burial in High Point Cemetery, High Point, Iowa. Arrangements were through Slade – O’Donnell Funeral Home in Leon, Iowa.