Galen Walter Griffin

Galen Walter Griffin, 92, of Manchester, Iowa, formerly of Elkader, passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2017, at Marietta’s Place in Manchester. He was born on February 12, 1925, in Masonville, the son of Walter and Hazel (Morehouse) Griffin. Galen attended rural country school near Masonville, graduating from Lamont High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Army, honorably serving his country during World War II. Following his service, he graduated from Upper Iowa University in Fayette.

On June 3, 1951, Galen married Velda Streeter at the Oelwein Methodist Church. Six children were born to this union. The couple farmed near Stanley for 11 years. Galen then worked for Farm Bureau in Boone and North Liberty before finally moving to Elkader as a Regional Manager in 1965. After his retirement from Farm Bureau in 1983, he worked for Leonard Funeral Home in Elkader. In 2015, Galen and Velda moved to Manchester to be closer to family.

Galen was an avid follower of youth sports and music, especially that of his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed camping trips and spending time watching nature. He cherished time with family most of all.

Survivors include his wife, Velda; his six children, Sharla Schmidt of Cascade, Pam (Terry) Behning of Pella, Judy (Steven) Berkeland of Fairmont, Minnesota, Bob (Sandy) Griffin of Danville, Patty Griffin of Manchester, and David (Kerri) Griffin of Cedar Rapids; 17 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Galen was preceded in death by his parents; a son-in-law, George Schmidt; his brother, Lee (Leah) Griffin; a sister, Inabel (Jerry) Falck, and two sisters in infancy; and nieces, Janet Freeman and Leanna Roepke.

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