Walter Edward Finnell, the son of John and Marry Ellen (Sullivan) Finnell, was born on a farm south of Massena, IA, on August 31, 1932. Walter died May 22, 2025, at Northcrest Living Center, in Council Bluffs, IA, at the age of 92 years, 8 months, and 2 days.
He attended a one room country school through the eighth grade. He was drafted into the army on January 21, 1953, during the Korean War. After being discharged, he returned and worked for A.O. Smith Harvest Store in Atlantic, IA. He married Norman Jean Kingery on May 18, 1955, in a farmhouse north of Gravity, IA. They had twin sons, Eldon and Edward. He then worked for several farmers as a farm hand and later for Feeders Grain in Corning, IA, retiring at the age of 82.
Walter was a member of the Bedford, IA, Legion and enjoyed mowing, gardening, and watching TV.
He is survived by his children Eldon Finnell and wife Ronette of Cumberland, IA, and Edward Finnell and Kathleen of Council Bluffs, IA; his grandchildren: Julie Williams and husband Kyle of Massena, IA, Jared Finnell of Cumberland, IA, and Megan Jefferson and husband Trevor of Oakland, IA; his great grandchildren: Chelsey, Paige, Cole, Carter, Isabelle, and Henry; and his great great grandchildren, Navey and Saylor.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; his great grandson Austin; his great great grandson Creed; and his siblings: Stanley, Marvin, George, Bob, Ivan, Hank, Violet, and Bill.
Graveside services with Military Honors will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 11:30 AM, at the Weirich Cemetery, southeast of Lyman. Rieken Duhn Funeral Home in Griswold is assisting the family.
