Jack Allan Cavanah, 86 of Granger, IA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. A visitation will be held from 3 to 6 p.m., Friday, January 10, 2025, at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Des Moines, IA. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 11, at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Graveside services will be held at a later date at Candor Cemetery in Aledo, IL. Jack’s service will be live streamed on the Iles website. Go to www.ilescares.com just before 11 a.m., Saturday, and scroll to the bottom of his obituary for the link to join the service. Memorials may be made to: Stoddard Cancer Center, Blank Children’s Hospital, or a charity of your choice. Iles Funeral Homes – Dunn’s Chapel, Des Moines, is assisting the family.
Jack was born on September 17, 1938, in Millersburg, IL, to Allan and Ella Mae Cavanah. Jack graduated from Aledo High School in 1956. Jack attended The University of Missouri before graduating with a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Agronomy from the University of Illinois. After graduating, Jack began his 38-year career with Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Jack’s time at Pioneer allowed him to travel the world and blessed him with cherished friends, mentors, and mentees.
Jack married his high school sweetheart, Marjorie Sue Roth, on January 29, 1961. Jack and Marjorie were blessed with two children: daughter Cathy and son Clint. Jack was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather to his four beloved grandchildren. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his family and attending their activities. After retirement, Jack took every opportunity to visit corn fields and ride in the combine during harvest. He was also passionate about fishing, hunting, storytelling, and sports.
Jack is survived by wife, Marjorie; daughter, Cathy (Thad) Pearson; son, Clint (Lisa); grandchildren, Alyssa Pearson, Jacob Pearson, Julia Cavanah, and Colton Cavanah; sister, Harriet (Roger) Dart; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jack was preceded by his parents, Allan and Ella Mae Cavanah, and sister, Karen (Cavanah) Hollen.