Cornelius John Doolaard, age 94, of Eldora, died at Unity Point Health Center Allen Hospital in Waterloo on August 20, 2014. Cornelius was born November 19, 1919 at home in Clay Township, Hardin County to Cornelius and Grietje (Eertmoed) Doolaard.
Cornelius attended Clay #5 Country School through the 8th grade when he began helping his dad farm. Cornelius married Maybelle Lamb on September 12, 1945, in Iowa Falls. They continued to farm until moving into town when he retired. His retirement didn't keep him off the farm, he was always a presence. His family remembers that he could fix anything; he had a passion for antique tractors and gas engines. After retirement he and Maybelle spent their winters at the Magic Valley RV Park in Weslaco, Texas.
Cornelius was a member of the Steamboat Rock Boat Club, and the Marshalltown Seventh Day Adventist Church. He enjoyed playing pool, bean bags, dominoes and bingo.
Cornelius is survived by his wife of 68 years Maybelle; son, Tony (Jane) Doolaard; grandchildren, Jeremy (Dawn) Doolaard, Emily (Jeff) Lentzkow, Amber (Greg) Johnson, Alex (Anna) Doolaard; great-grandchildren, Raylee Doolaard, Jacob Lentzkow, Caitlyn Lentzkow, Claire Johnson, Drew Johnson; brother-in-law Elmer Heetland and many nieces and nephews. Cornelius was preceded in death by his parents, and sisters Anna Doolaard, Nellie Heetland, and Jennie Doolaard.
Graveside services will be held at a later date.