Kevin Henry, 73

March 7, 1953 - 

August 4, 2026

 

  Kevin Gerald Henry, 73, of Urbandale, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on August 4, 2026.

   Born in 1953 in Decorah, Iowa, to Gerald and Rose (Keefe) Henry, Kevin grew up on the family farm near Bluffton. He worked extremely hard every day beside his father, who was always concerned that Kevin was driving the tractors too fast. Which, of course, he was.

   After graduating from Notre Dame High School in Cresco, Kevin earned a degree in History Education from the University of Northern Iowa. Insisting he was putting that degree to good use, he celebrated by backpacking across Europe. When he returned home, Kevin turned his gift for connecting with people into a successful career in sales, including his final 20 years with Air Mach, Inc. In retirement, he continued doing what he loved most (meeting people and helping others) as a volunteer driver for UCAN. Though he built a life elsewhere, his heart never left the family farm, where he remained actively involved throughout his life.

   Kevin's greatest gift was making people laugh. Whether through a perfectly timed story, a harmless prank, or his legendary white elephant gifts, he found joy in bringing smiles to others. While that sense of humor served him well throughout his life, his greatest happiness was found with his family, especially his beloved wife of nearly 40 years, Joyette “Jo” (Ballou); his daughter, Marissa; and his cherished grandchildren, Kennedy and Henry, who adored their "Grampinator."

   Kevin also loved movies, music, and cheering on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He and Jo are longtime parishioners of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Urbandale, and Kevin was a member of the Knights of Columbus for many years.

   He is survived by his wife, Jo; his daughter, Marissa (Andy) Thomas of Prairie Village, KS; his grandchildren, Kennedy and Henry Thomas; his siblings, Maureen (Mike) Ward of Dubuque, IA, Shannon (John) Slowiaczek of Omaha, NE, Elaine (Roger) Kaltefleiter of Parkville, MO, and Brian Henry of New Hampton, IA; his siblings-in-law, John (Diana) Ballou of Audubon, IA, Dennis (Marlene) Ballou of Exira, IA, Patty Ballou of Exira, IA, Sharon (Ed) Rathbun of Bridgewater, VA, Mary (Bill) Bontrager of Ankeny, IA, and Judi (Denny) Nelson of Exira, IA; as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends. Through his decision to be an organ and tissue donor, Kevin's generosity will continue to touch lives through the Iowa Donor Network. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald and Rose Henry; his brother, Danny Henry; and his brother-in-law, Carey Ballou.

   A visitation was held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Iles Westover Chapel, 6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. A Vigil Service with a time for sharing memories will began at 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, at St. Pius X Catholic Church, 3663 66th Street, Urbandale, followed by a reception.

   Memorial contributions may be directed to: Comprehensive Systems-New Hampton Group Home, P.O. Box 284, New Hampton, IA 50659.

   "And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand."

   Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com. 

   Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.