Arvin Joseph Foell, 76, of Kelley, Iowa, passed away suddenly on June 6, 2025, while working on his farm. Born on September 5, 1948, in Hampton, Iowa, Arvin was a devoted Christian whose faith shone brightly through his decades of teaching Sunday School and leading Bible studies. Early mornings or after dark, Arvin could be found sitting in his recliner with his laptop and multiple Bible translations within arm’s reach. He often prepared for the next Sunday School or Bible study after a long day outdoors tending bees, in the garden, or mowing the grass – 3 of his favorite hobbies.

Arvin’s legacy of faith, family, and service will forever inspire those who knew him. A memorial service will be held at CrossRoad Baptist Church in Ames, Iowa, on June 23, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.

Arvin’s passion for beekeeping began in 1977 after taking a beekeeping course in his last semester at Iowa State University. Tasting his first honey crop sparked a lifelong love for bees. Arvin became an active member and past president of the Central Iowa Beekeepers Association (CIBA) and the Iowa Honey Producers’ Association where he contributed significantly to the local and statewide beekeeping community. He also loved to travel the nation attending beekeeping seminars and visiting beekeepers and bee yards.

For the past decade in his “retirement,” Arvin was a respected State Apiary Inspector who dedicated his time teaching about and troubleshooting issues with bees. Arvin looked forward to the Iowa State Fair every year, where he would man the honey booth most days and talk bees with friends and strangers from far and wide. He mentored many aspiring beekeepers and was always willing to share his knowledge with anyone who crossed his path, whether in person, via phone, or on Facebook.

His time at ISU led to another hobby of judo, where he showcased his discipline, tenacity, and competitive spirit. He rose to the rank of third-degree blackbelt under Grandmaster Yong Chin Pak and won many awards and competitions throughout his 30 years of practice; including taking gold in the 1988 Iowa Games alongside his daughter.

Arvin leaves behind his beloved wife since 1971, Jeanne Foell, with whom he just celebrated 54 years of marriage on May 22. Arvin is survived by his children, Aymi Paradise-Flores of Huxley; Kristi Arthur (Daniel) of Lynchburg, VA; Katie Robinson (Justin) of Norfolk, NE; and Andrew Foell (Grace) of Cottage Grove, OR; his cherished grandchildren, Jonah, Violet, and Justice Joseph Flores; Adelynn and Cailynn Arthur; Abigail and Samuel Robinson; and Archer Foell; his siblings, Alvin Maklenburg (Lori) of Manly and Arlene Lockwood (Jerry) of Clarion; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arvid Foell and Allene Roeder (Herman); his siblings, Allen and Albert Foell; his half-sister Marion Lindenberg and half-brother Richard Roeder; his niece Jenny Foell, nephew James Foell, and nephew Michael Hanks; and his granddaughter, Sara Robinson.

Memorial Service

Jun

23

CrossRoad Baptist Church

3721 Turing St.
Ames, IA 50010

10:30 AM