January 31, 1974 – February 26, 2026
Chad A. Cahill, 52, of Clear Lake, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on February 26, 2026.
Chad was born on January 31, 1974, in Mason City, Iowa, to Don and Debbi (Leidall) Cahill.
In 1976, Chad moved to California, where he created cherished childhood memories—enjoying days at the beach, visits to Disneyland, scenic train rides to San Diego, and adventures at the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. He was active in soccer and baseball, but his true talent shone in the hilarious pranks he played on his cousins and friends—a playful spirit that stayed with him throughout life. Summers were always a highlight for Chad, spent in Iowa with his grandparents and his extended “second family,” the Leidalls, strengthening bonds that lasted a lifetime.
Chad returned to Mason City in 1986 and graduated from Mason City High School in 1992. He continued his love for sports through the years, taking part in many summer softball leagues, all while perfecting his knack for good-natured mischief. Even as a young boy, Chad had a love for anything with a motor and wheels. During summers in Iowa, he was up at sunrise to fuel up the three-wheeler and spend long days riding gravel roads and dirt fields with his cousins and neighborhood kids. At 18, Chad began his lifelong passion for cars, starting as a delivery driver for NAPA Auto Parts, serving local and surrounding dealerships. This sparked a successful career in the auto industry, where he worked at several Iowa dealerships and advanced to Internet Sales Manager for used cars. Over the decades, he built lasting friendships with colleagues, repeat customers, and his lifelong best friends. His warmth, reliability, and humor made him a favorite among everyone he met. On December 20, 2003, Chad married Jessica Colombo at First United Methodist Church in Mason City, Iowa. From this union, their family blossomed to include Kristie, Nolan, and twins Henry and Hannah. Though Chad and Jessica’s marriage later ended in divorce, the love they shared for their children remained strong.
Chad’s life revolved around his children and grandchildren. Though his jobs often demanded travel, Chad strived every day to be the best dad and grandfather possible, showering them with love, support, laughter, and unwavering presence whenever he could. He loved to “hold court” and tell stories—often embellishing them just to get extra laughs out of the kids—creating moments of joy that will live on in their memories. Chad is survived by his children: daughter Kristie (Jordon) Beier and grandchildren Ellie and Rowen of Albia, Iowa; son Nolan (fiancée Ciara) and grandson Waylon of Goodyear, Arizona; son Henry of Goodyear, Arizona; and daughter Hannah of Goodyear, Arizona. His mother, Debbi, and stepfather, Bob, of California. His uncles: Terry Leidall of St. Ansgar, Iowa; Dennis (Jessica) Leidall of Petoskey, Michigan. His aunt: Tori (Randy) Nelson of Rathdrum, Idaho. And several cousins from Wisconsin, California, Colorado, and Iowa Chad was preceded in death by his father, Don Cahill; grandparents Hank & Calla Cahill and Paul & LoRetta Leidall; his “second mom,” Aunt Marcia Leidall; aunt and uncle Pat & Jim Cahill; and cousin Shannon Lamberti.
Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapels are handling Chad’s cremation arrangements. He will return to Arizona to be with his family.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Chad’s many friends, colleagues, and customers for their loyal friendship and support through the years—the good times, the tough times, the laughter, and the memories you shared brought so much joy to his life.
Personal tributes from his children:
“I will make sure Waylon has a good day, every day. I love you, Dad.” — Nolan
“You were an amazing dad. I appreciate you for always being there for me when I needed you. I love you, Dad.” — Henry
“I’ll miss your laugh, our dinner dates, and goodnight texts so much. Thank you for always being there for me. I love you forever, Dad.” — Hannah
“Chad has always been my dad. I will be forever thankful for everything he did for me even when he didn’t have to.” — Kristie
Chad’s legacy lives on in the love he gave so freely, the pranks that brought smiles, the stories that sparked laughter, the friendships he nurtured, and most of all, in the hearts of his family who will carry him with them every day.
Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapels are handling Chad’s cremation arrangements. He will return to Arizona to be with his family. A Celebration of life will be held in Clear Lake. Updates will be made on the funeral home’s website.
Hogan-Bremer-Moore Colonial Chapel. 641-423-2372.
ColonialChapels.com