Obituary

Kenneth Leon "Lon" Shook, 84, of Grinnell, IA passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Toledo, Iowa.

Born on December 15, 1940, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, Lon was the son of Kenneth K. and Nellie (Van Veen) Shook. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1959 to 1962, including overseas service in Korea.

On April 16, 1960, Lon was united in marriage to Joyce Howard in Unionville, Missouri. They made their home in Grinnell, Iowa, where Lon worked as a painter and carpenter for various local companies. He also contributed his skills in maintenance for the City of Grinnell. Known as a handyman specialist, Lon had a remarkable ability to fix and remodel just about anything and was always willing to lend a hand to family and friends.

Lon had a spirited personality and was known as a loving prankster who enjoyed playing jokes. His orneriness brought smiles to many. He found joy in metal detecting, collecting items, roller skating, and savoring a good meal.

He is survived by Joyce, his wife of 65 years; grandchildren Crystal, Kali, and Kendell; 7 great-grandchildren; brothers Gary Shook and Jeff Shook; sisters-in-law Caroline Shook, Shirley Shook, and Karla Howard; and several nieces and nephews.

Lon was preceded in death by his parents; his children Larry Dean, Ronnie Alan, and Susan Diane; and brothers Gene Shook and George Shook.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell, Iowa. Burial will follow at Hazelwood Cemetery. Visitation will begin at 10:00 AM prior to the service.

Memorial contributions may be designated to the family and mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.

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