Albert “Obie” O’Bleness

Albert “Obie” O’Bleness, 94, of Keokuk, passed away on Monday, November 25, 2024, at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in West Burlington, Iowa.

Obie was born on November 30, 1929, in Keokuk, Iowa, the son of Albert, Sr. and Helen (Ketterer) O’Bleness. On April 25, 1953, he was united in marriage to Alice Jayne Garner at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fort Madison. She preceded him in death on June 12, 2003.

Obie was a mason contractor, operating Mayhew and O’Bleness until his retirement. He was a member of All Saints Catholic Church, where he was very involved for much of his life. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge #106 in Keokuk. Throughout his life Obie was an athlete, going to Nationals in Bowling and spending much of his time golfing in later years. Cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes or attending Keokuk Chiefs games were two of his favorite pastimes.

Obie is survived by two children: Denise O’Bleness (Scott Verhagen) of New York City and Michael (Janet) O’Bleness of Keokuk; son-in-law: Dave Carroll; four grandchildren: Brian (Leah) Carroll and Christopher Carroll, both of Keokuk, Dr. Jessica O’Bleness (Drew Fischels) of Iowa City and Dr. Andrew O’Bleness (Kelsey) of Waukee, Iowa; six great-grandchildren: Aubree, Ascher, Kyler, Isaiah, Ellia and Callum; and other beloved family members.

Obie is preceded in death by his parents; his two sisters Mary and Margaret; his wife Jayne, along with his daughter Debbie Carroll.

A funeral mass will be held at 10 am on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at All Saints Catholic Church in Keokuk, with burial to follow in Oakland Cemetery, Catholic Section. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 29, from 1 to 4 pm, with family meeting friends from 2 to 4 pm at Printy Funeral Home, 917 Blondeau Street, Keokuk, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to All Saints Catholic Church or the Arthritis Foundation.