John Dibel

John R. Dibel, 62, of Sheldahl, passed away Monday June 28, 2021, at the Kavanaugh House in Des Moines. Memorial services will be held 2:30 p.m. Saturday, July 10, 2021, at Ankeny Memorial Gardens with visitation prior to services starting at 1 p.m.

John Raymond Dibel was born on January 1, 1959, to Carl Eugene Dibel and Ruby Maye (McDonald) Dibel. He was the first New Year’s baby born in Union County that year. He was welcomed home by two older sisters.

John was a kind, considerate child, who followed his father everywhere learning everything he could about the farm. He loved learning to cook and garden from his mother. This gift continue into adulthood where many commented on his huge tomato plants and beautiful garden. John had a gift and love for the land and nature.

John graduated with the Class of 1977 from Greenfield High School. Not many people can say they have friends from 5 years of age and have stayed in touch and enjoyed their company their entire life, but John could.

John married the love of his life, Karen Hughes, on February 13, 1981. They were blessed with a beautiful and talented daughter, Sara Marie. She was the light of his life. Watching her grow and seeing her accomplishments were a great source of pride that he spoke of often.

When Sara married Matthew, John was very happy to welcome another male to the family. They blessed him with his greatest title of all “PaPa”, when Ariel and Dale were born. Many wonderful hours were spent in the last few years enjoying the love and antics of these two wonderful grandchildren.

He became a very accomplished outdoorsman whether it be hunting, fishing or bow hunting. Many hours were spent with family and his close friends, Steve Johnston and Greg Beaman. The three friends were officially known as the Three Musketeers. John helped with the Iowa Games for several years and taught many young people about the sport of archery.

It was common to see John out helping his neighbors and friends around his beloved community of Sheldahl. Whether it be mowing a lawn, helping to prepare for celebrations or assisting with the Derecho cleanup, John was always on hand.

John took great pride in his work to provide for his family. He worked many years for Lift Truck, Ditchwitch and Hupp Power Lift. When someone needed a part to repair something, he was the one to ask. He developed a system to track parts down and have it shipped or delivered to the customer. His dedication won him recognition in 1993 when they gave him and Karen a lovely vacation package.

John is survived by his wife, Karen, of 40 years; his daughter Sara and husband Matthew Konen; grandchildren Ariel and Dale of Ft. Dodge; mother Ruby Dibel, Fontanelle; sisters: Starr Cain (John) Mesa, AZ; Mary Lynn Wallace (Steve Loomis), Fontanelle; Dorie Dibel, Macksburg; sister-in-law Judy Hopkins, Cromwell; nieces: April McDaniel (Brian) McCool Junction, NE; Hilary Boden (Andrew), Fontanelle; Crystal Dabb (Bobby), Fontanelle; Riki Devoe-Bailey and Matti Baine, Mesa, AZ; Amanda Mae Funke, Winterset; and Sherry Hopkins; nephews: Jason Wallace, Greenfield; Travis Henley, Georgia; Robert Henley, Lorimor, and Josh Hopkins; along with many great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Carl E. Dibel; brother-in-law, Bob Hopkins; mother-in-law, Ocie Hughes and great nephew, Lane Michael McDaniel.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Des Moines Every Step Hospice, NV Schools Youth Archery or Peyton Parker Lane All Inclusive Playground in honor of Lane McDaniel.