ROCKWELL — Clarence H. Ermer, a lifelong farmer, Korean War-era Navy veteran and active member of the Rockwell community, died Saturday, August 29, 2026, at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center in Mason City. He was 96.
A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, September 3, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 305 E. Elm St. in Rockwell, with the Rev. David O’Connor presiding.
Visitation will be held at the church from 9 a.m. until the beginning of the Mass. Clarence will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Rockwell.
Clarence Harold Ermer was born June 21, 1930, in Hampton to August and Margaret Peschel Ermer. One of nine children, he grew up near Dougherty in a farm family where responsibility, persistence and respect for the land were part of everyday life.
After graduating from Rockwell High School in 1948, Clarence enlisted in the United States Navy. He served his country for four years, including during the Korean War.
When his military service ended, Clarence returned to the Dougherty area and the agricultural life he knew best.
He married Jeanette Way on August 6, 1960, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. The couple raised two sons, Scott and Paul, and built a family life centered on faith, hard work and devotion to one another.
Farming was never simply an occupation for Clarence. It shaped his character and remained an important part of his identity throughout his life. He took pride in caring for the land, meeting the demands of each season and completing every job properly.
After retiring, Clarence and Jeanette moved to Rockwell. They also enjoyed spending their winters in Mesa, Arizona, where they made additional friends and memories.
Clarence maintained strong ties to his church, fellow veterans and the broader community. He was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council 13314, Gallagher American Legion Post 208, the Rockwell Lions Club and Linn Grove Country Club.
His family and friends will remember a dependable man who valued a productive day, remained proud of his naval service and greeted people with a warm, unforgettable smile. His 96 years reflected the principles that guided him throughout his life: faith, family, service and care for the land.
Clarence is survived by his wife, Jeanette; sons Scott and his wife, Lynda Ermer, and Paul and his wife, Robin Ermer; grandchildren Paige, Aimee and her husband, Tyler, Abigail and Vincent; siblings Floyd and his wife, Marilyn Ermer, Robert and his wife, Marilyn Ermer, Eunice Bamrick, and Jim and his wife, Carol Ermer; brother-in-law Bryan and his wife, Kathy Way; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings Herb and his wife, Pat Ermer, Richard and his wife, Marcele Ermer, George and his wife, Jane Ermer, and Gertrude and her husband, Melvin Kelley; brother-in-law John Bamrick; and sister-in-law Kathy Way.
Memorial contributions in Clarence’s honor may be directed to Knights of Columbus Council 13314, Gallagher American Legion Post 208, Catholic Charities or Linn Grove Country Club.
Hogan Bremer Moore Colonial Chapel is caring for Clarence and his family. To read the complete obituary or leave a remembrance, please click here.
NorthIowaToday.com publishes remembrance stories free of charge for families and funeral homes. Obituary information may be submitted to NorthIowaToday.com by email.