Harold Ray Bailey

July 22, 1927 - April 18, 2016

Harold Ray Bailey, age 88, of Knoxville, Iowa, passed away Monday, April 18, 2016, at Jefferson Place in Pella, Iowa. Harold was born on July 22, 1927, in Knoxville, Iowa, the son of Charles and Millie (Kingery) Bailey. Harold attended Knoxville School and worked as a farm hand for a short time. In 1945, Harold enlisted the United States Army, where he later became a military police officer. In 1949, Harold was united in marriage to Jenella Doreen Bailey. They spent over 20 years together and to this union they were blessed with four children; Priscilla, Donald, Julie and Jeff. After serving in the military, Harold worked on the VA Fire Department in Knoxville until his retirement in 1983. Following retirement, Harold managed the VFW in Knoxville and enjoyed cooking during the Steak fry’s on Saturday nights. Harold was also a member of the American Legion and the VFW. During Harold’s membership with the VFW, Harold had the honor of serving as Commander. Harold spent much of his summer camping. His preferred camping spot was at Ponca Cove within Whitebreast Campground. He also spent time fishing,relaxing with friends and family, and taking hunting trips to Wyoming. Harold attended the New Covenant Baptist Church. Harold is survived by his four children, Priscilla Bishop and husband Roger, Donald Bailey and wife Betty, Julie Petersen and husband Jim and Jeff Bailey and wife Peggy all of Knoxville; eight grandchildren, Melody Bishop, Angela Vande Kamp and husband Troy, Brian Bishop and wife Katie, Justin Petersen, Jacob Petersen and wife Lauren, Joshua Petersen, Jenny Petersen and Jamie Bailey and fiancée Zach McClellan; and four great-grandchildren, Austin Bishop, Cody Bishop, Ben Vande Kamp, Bailey Vande Kamp and a future great-grandchild in May. Harold is also survived by his three brothers, Jim Bailey and wife Jackie, Marion Bailey and wife Arvilia, and Marvin Bailey and wife Lorraine; his dog T.J.; and his longtime companion Karen Wilson of Knoxville. Harold is preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Lena Mae Lambert. Visitation for Harold will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M., Thursday, April 21, 2016 at Winfield Funeral Home in Knoxville; Harold’s family will be present from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Thursday evening. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 A.M., Friday, April 22, 2016 at the Winfield Funeral Home in Knoxville with Elder Bill McDonald officiating. Committal services with military honors will be held at Coal Ridge Cemetery in rural Knoxville. Following services a luncheon will be held at the VFW in Knoxville. Memorials may be made to Coal Ridge Church. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.winfieldfh.com.