Emory Ray Fitz

Emory Ray Fiz passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Glen Oaks Alzheimer’s Special Care Center at the age of 87 in Des Moines.

Emory Ray Fitz was born September 9, 1936, in Hampton, to Ray Foster and Mildred Marion (Heideman) Fitz. He was raised on their farm in Southwest Franklin County. Emory went to school in Dows, Iowa, graduating in 1955.

After high school Emory enlisted in the United States Air Force.During Emory’s years with the Air Force, he was the Crew Chief of a B-32 while stationed in Nebraska and while stationed in Okinawa, Japan he was Crew Chief of an F-86D “Dog Sabre” interceptor titled “Walkaround?”. After his discharge from the U.S. Air Force, Emory worked as a civilian mechanic for the training school, Graham Air Base in Marianna, Florida.

Emory then returned to the family farm in 1961 and farmed on a limited basis while he worked for Arrow Acme Corp and Morts in Webster City. 

On June 6, 1965, Emory & Sharon Phillis (Fisher) Fitz were wed in Story City, Iowa. They moved to the family farm, where Emory farmed full-time while Sharon taught at Dows High School. Emory and Sharon had 2 sons. 

Emory was preceded in death by his parents; brother Burton (Irene) Fitz; and his wife.

He is survived by sons; Mark (Jolee) Fitz of Nevada, Paul (Heather) Fitz of Ankeny; 3 grandchildren; Savannah (Dallas) Volentine, Madison (Brett) Purdy, Thomas Fitz and his companion Shiley Klemme.

Emory’s body was cremated, and the family will be holding a private grave side service at a later date, in accordance with Emory’s wishes.