CLEAR LAKE — Alan Frank Atwell, 92, of Clear Lake, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 30, 2026, at MercyOne hospital in Mason City and entered the presence of his Lord and Savior.
In accordance with Alan’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held at a future date. His remains will be laid to rest beside his son, Alan Jr., at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Des Moines.
Alan was born May 22, 1934, in Chariton, the son of Herman and Jessie Atwell. He graduated from Chariton High School in 1953 and later continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree from Upper Iowa University in 1983.
Service became a defining theme throughout Alan’s adult life. He spent 24 years in the United States Air Force, including an assignment in Taiwan.
During his time overseas, Alan’s first wife, Joan, died from cancer. He returned to Iowa with their 8-year-old son, Alan Jr., and continued his military career as an Air Force recruiter in Des Moines and Iowa City.
Alan married Margherita Sage Rodgers, a widow, in 1969. Their marriage endured for 57 years, carrying them through joy, change and the painful death of Alan Jr. in 1981.
Following his honorable discharge from the Air Force in 1978, Alan and Margherita moved to Las Vegas, Nevada. His career of public service continued there as he spent 20 years working as a municipal court marshal for the City of Las Vegas.
After retiring, the couple returned to Iowa and settled in Clear Lake. Alan and Margherita became members of Clear Lake Christian Church, where they found a church home and community.
Alan is survived by his wife, Margherita Atwell of Clear Lake, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Jessie Atwell; sister, Joann Simcoke; brother, Richard Atwell; first wife, Joan (Pugh) Atwell; and son, Alan Atwell Jr.
Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel is caring for Alan and his family. To read the complete funeral home obituary or share a message of condolence, 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.