Verlyn "Dean" Moats

December 1, 1936 - July 21, 2020

Verlyn “Dean” Moats, born to Edgar and Marie (Smith) Moats, in Grundy County, IA, December 1, 1936 – arrived on his mother’s birthday. He spent his growing-up years on a farm with an older sister and two younger brothers. He attended rural schools and Eldora Public School for his elementary education; began high school at Conrad, then graduated from Grundy Ctr. High School in 1955. Dean was baptized at the Ivester Church of the Brethren in Grundy County at the age of twelve and was an active participant as a child. Dean graduated from Drake University School of Pharmacy in 1961 and worked in Des Moines pharmacies and a partnership towing service with his brother. In 1964 his family moved to Knoxville, IA where he bought into a partnership pharmacy. A few years later, Dean and family become the sole owner of Baker Drug Store and managed the business until it was sold in 1994. The family expanded into the hardware business and owned Jerry's True Value Hardware from 1980 to 2006. Dean also invested in farmland and became a farmer. He was active in farming until his health conditions worsened in 2019. Dean was always very talented in building or fixing things. He built the homestead where the Moats family lived from 1972 to 1994 and remodeled several other rental houses around Knoxville. He also got a lot of satisfaction from buying and restoring old machinery for resale. Over the years, Dean was active in several organizations and churches in Knoxville. He attended First Christian Church (1961 - 1980) and was a founding member of Christ Church that was formed in 1980. Dean also liked to help the less fortunate providing donations or employment to many in need over the years. Preceding Dean in death are his parents; two brothers, Marvin Moats and Vernon Moats. Left to remember him are his children: Leah (Terry) McNeely; Lisa (Brad) Crossett; Marty (Kris) Moats; Michael (Jacque) Moats; and Justin Vink, his companion Shirley Eivens, 24 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren; a sister, Marlene (Lyle) Neher, Grundy Center; a sister-in-law, Joyce Moats, Conrad;, and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Dean’s wishes were to be cremated. A private family gathering will take place on a later date. Winfield Funeral Home in Knoxville is assisting the family.