Richard Daniel Baldwin, Jr. Obituary in Ankeny at Memorial Services of Iowa

Obituary For Richard Daniel Baldwin, Jr.

Richard “Rich” Daniel Baldwin, Jr. 78, of Huxley, IA, passed away on November 3, 2026, at MercyOne Hospital in Des Moines, IA, surrounded by family and friends.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd).

Rich was born February 19, 1948, in Santa Paula, CA. Rich grew up in the Maxwell and Farrar areas. Rich graduated from Maxwell High School in 1968. Rich attended Iowa State University and was a salesperson for Farner Bocken out of Carroll for many years. Rich, along with his wife, Lavonne, owned and operated Sweeties Ice Cream & More from 1993 to 2006, in Huxley. Rich enjoyed cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones,

Rich loved bass fishing, whether casting a line at sunrise or sharing stories of “the one that got away,” fishing was more than a hobby—it was his passion. He spent countless hours on his favorite lakes, rivers and small farm ponds, finding peace in the outdoors and joy in the thrill of the catch. Rich was known among friends and family, always willing to bait a hook, untangle a line, or pass along a favorite fishing spot or fishing lures. Rich, along with his wife, ran several bass fishing tournaments across the state of Iowa and was an active member of the Iowa Bass Anglers Club.

Beyond fishing, Rich had involvement with the Iowa Jaycee’s, Huxley Volunteer Fire Fighters. Served as a council member for the City of Huxley. Rich was good with people and enjoyed many conversations over a cup of coffee. His favorite conversations took place at Fred’s in Slater or the Maverick convenience store in Huxley. Rich did not know a stranger.

Rich is survived by his wife of 38 years, Lavonne; children, Todd Baldwin (Tammy) of Warsaw, MN, and Mindy Baldwin of Warsaw, MN; sister, Susanne Elson of West Des Moines, IA; brothers, John Baldwin of Winston-Salem, NC, and Ed Baldwin (Laurie) of Gibbonsville, NC; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Dick and Sally; brother, Daniel; brother-in-law, Howard Elson; and a grandson, Tyler Chavie.

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