Meeks, Donald D.

Donald D. Meeks, 96, of the Monticello Nursing and Rehab Center, formerly of Martelle, died at St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Services: 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Martelle United Methodist Church, by the Rev. Ed Moreano. Interment: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids. A visitation will be held Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home and after 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the church.

Don was born Jan. 26, 1915, to W.B. “Bert” and Lillian (Duncan) Meeks. Don grew up on a farm east of Martelle and remained there, farming as a partner with his father, Bert, and brother, Merle. After his father retired, he and his brother continued the partnership as Meeks Bros. He loved farming and all the duties it required. He loved going to the Jones County Fair, never missing a year, since he was 10 years old. He was very active in 4-H as a member and also as a leader. A highlight was winning the trophy for the Grand Champion Baby Beef at the Great Jones County Fair in 1935.

Don was a lifelong member of the Knights of Pythias, White Rose Lodge of Martelle and also a lifetime member of the Martelle United Methodist Church. He belonged to many other organizations throughout the years.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jeanette; son, Howard (Sandy) of Polk City; daughter, Barbara (Jerry) Rickard of Mason City; grandchildren, Brian Meeks of Martelle, Julie Stein of Alpharetta, Ga., Mike (Deb) Rickard of Mason City and Steve Rickard of Cody, Wyo.; and great-grandchildren, Rachael and Lucas Stein, Greg, Tim and Alex Rickard.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mildred; his parents, Bert and Lillian; and brother, Merle.

In lieu of flowers, you may give memorials to the Martelle United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be sent to  under obituaries.