Rich Small

     Richard Ellis Small was born in the hills of Raglan Township, Harrison County, Iowa on May 6, 1936. He passed peacefully at his home on January 3, 2026, at the age of 89. Rich lived a good life in those hills growing up. He became an electrician, owning his own business, Rich Electric, and was an active and participating citizen in the town of Magnolia, Iowa, for 57 years. He married Kay Massie and from that union 7 children were born, of which he was very proud. Rich was later married to Deanna Young in 1996 and they enjoyed many years together.

     Rich’s greatest career accomplishments came later in his business years doing commercial electrical work. He took much pride in contributing to the designs for Tommy Gate Manufacturing Company as they grew in Woodbine, Iowa. He loved creating the right lighting and wiring needed as they added more welding stations, office areas and the set ups for more advanced automated equipment.

     You always knew where Rich stood on things. He had grit and he loved hard. Rich didn’t hold back in life or in conversation. There was never any doubt about his love for family.

     Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Ellen (Armstrong) Small; brother, Russell Small; infant brother, Robert Small; son, Joe Small; daughter, Brenda Allen; and sisters-in-law, Joan Small and Joyce Small. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Deanna Small of Magnolia; daughters, Bonnie (Blair) Adams of Modale, Iowa; Betty (Curt) Smith of Missouri Valley, Iowa, Bev (Kevin) Olsen of Athens, Alabama; Barb (Tom) Hoff of Logan, Iowa and Becky (Mason) Clark of Omaha, Nebraska; Deanna's daughters, Chris (Warren) Whitted of Omaha, Nebraska and Joanna (Bob) Barnard of Missouri Valley, Iowa; brother, Gary Small of Missouri Valley; 25 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren; and many other relatives and friends.

Final resting place is in the hearts of all who love him.