Robert Carris

Robert Carris

1932-2021

KEOTA-Robert Lee Carris, age 88, of Keota, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2021.

Robert was born Nov. 14, 1932, in Valley, Iowa, to Warren and Mildred Catherine (Ruplinger) Carris and received his education in West Chester and Keota schools.  On Aug. 15, 1964, he married Maxine Christner in Sigourney. Following marriage the couple lived in Keota. Robert was a custodian at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, taking early retirement at age 77, and also owned and operated Keota Chemical.  Following his retirement, Robert cared for Maxine until she became a resident at the United Presbyterian Home in Washington.  A charter member of the Driveway Club, Robert enjoyed fishing, camping, mushrooming, spending time at the river cabin, playing cards, gardening, especially growing tomatoes, and his dogs.

Survivors include five children: Sandy (John) Mast of Kalona, Christy Gray of Keswick, Robert (Kathy) Northup of Brighton, Ronald (Cindy) Northup of Keota and Melody Hammes of Urbandale; 14 grandchildren; 33 great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren and sister: Dorothy Swartz of Cedar Rapids. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife: Maxine in 2020; granddaughter: Whitney Gray; sister: Alice Johnston and brothers-in-law: Clark Johnston and Lyle Swartz.

Visitation will be held from noon until 7 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, at Powell Funeral Home in Keota, where the family will be present from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. There will be no service. Burial will be at Keota Cemetery at a later date. Mask usage and social distancing are suggested for visitation.

A general memorial fund has been established. Powell Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Keota is caring for Robert and his family. Tributes may be made at www.powellfuneralhomes.com.