Obituaries : Arlen L. Bantz

Arlen L. Bantz, 76, died Sunday, March 30, 2025, at his home from complications due to his long-term fight with Dementia/ Parkinson's at his home in Rowley, Iowa.

Arlen was born on May 3, 1948, to the parents of Caroll and Frances (Mumford) Bantz at People's Hospital in Independence. He graduated from La Porte City with the Class of 1966. Arlen had been an employee of 48 years at Rockwell Collins in Cedar Rapid, Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Wanda. They were married on August 29, 1991, in Independence, Iowa. His longtime passion he had for small engines and race cars brought him so much joy that he started a small side business in 1996, King AveMowers. Upon retiring from Rockwell Collins in 2016, he then focused on his business full time until the closing in 2020 due to complications of Parkinson's. Any other free time he enjoyed watching old westerns, car shows, going to auctions and visits from his grandchildren.

Arlen is survived by his wife of 33 years, Wanda; three sons, Darren (Kim) Bantz of Smith, Missouri, Curt (Carrie) Bantz of Brandon, Iowa, Kyle Bantz of Cedar Rapids; three daughters, Kelly (Jerry) Wells of Lisbon, Shelly (Dale) Jacobs of Crest Hill, Illinois, Brandy Graham of Cedar Rapids; one sister, Diane (Bob) Kress of Powell, Wyoming; thirteen grandkids and several great-grandkids. He was preceded in death by his parents, Caroll and Frances.

Arlen's family would like to thank the Rowley Fire Department and Buchanan County Sherrif's Department for the care they showed him. The family will have a celebration of life at a later date. Condolences for the family may be left at www.iowacremation.com.