Keith Blocker

Keith Blocker, 78, of rural Malcom, died Friday, November 17, 2023, at his home. A visitation will be held from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm, Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Cox-Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell. A funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm, Wednesday, at Cox-Smith Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be sent in care of Cox-Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, PO Box 163, Grinnell, Iowa 50112. Cox-Smith Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Keith was born on May 29, 1945, the son of Melvin and Tena (Balvina) Blocker at the family home in Tama, Iowa. He worked at Lennox and then Miracle until retiring. Keith was a great carpenter and was part of the “Blocker Brothers” band, with his brothers. There was never a stranger that he didn’t meet. He was a “junker.” A big bowl of ice cream was a nightly thing. He was a very giving man. Keith enjoyed family time together, which his family will always cherish those memories, even when he was playing tricks. Keith loved his family with all of his heart and soul.

Keith is survived by his wife of 49 years, Rita; son, John Wallis, of Rock Creek; daughter, Heather Blocker Timm, of Malcom; grandchildren: Lane Wallis, Lacey (Coty Horrell) Timm, Seth Wallis, Jordan Gragg and Bryce Timm; one great grandson, Benjamin Horrell, one great granddaughter, Paisley; siblings, Patsy Seymour, Jim (Audrey) Blocker, Jeanette Genson, Delores Baughman, David (Nancy) Blocker, his twin Kenneth (Bev) Blocker, LeRoy (Connie) Blocker, William (Chris) Blocker, Eugene (Mary) Blocker and Darrell Blocker; sisters-in-law, Debbie Blocker and Bev Blocker; several cousins, nieces and nephews and his beloved dog, Poppy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Melvin, Gordon and Larry “Hooch”; grandson, Austin Gragg and his dear friend, Larry “Monk” Shefchik.