Final Salute

George Edward Cordell, age 87, passed away on October 15, 2024, at Mary Greeley Medical Center in Ames, IA. He was born on October 20, 1936, to parents Roger and Vada Cordell.

George graduated from Nevada High School in 1955. While still in high school, he enlisted in the Navy Reserves Construction Battalions, better known as the Navy Seabees. George was very patriotic and proud to serve his country through his passion for construction. He served eight years in the reserves while establishing his profession as a skilled carpenter.

George met Sandra Jones on a blind date in June 1959. They had a whirlwind romance and were engaged by Christmas Eve. George and Sandra were united in marriage on July 23, 1960. He bought a fixer-upper house for his bride in Maxwell, IA where they raised their family and became involved in the community.

George had a great reputation as a finish carpenter, and ran his business, Cordell Construction, until 1986. He was a dedicated member of the Maxwell Masonic Lodge, now Nevada Masonic Lodge #99.

Once George and Sandy became empty nesters, they lived for a few years in Arizona. They returned to Iowa in the 90s where George enjoyed working for Rich Lepper Construction until his retirement. In retirement, George enjoyed his grandchildren, Iowa Hawkeyes sports, working around the house, spending time with Sandy sitting on the deck and enjoying the many flowers they had planted.

George is survived by his wife, Sandra Cordell; sons, James (Christel) Cordell and Keith (Lisa) Cordell; daughter, Melissa (Dave) Sly; grandchildren, Moya Cordell, Toni (Jared) Weatherman, Taylor Shattuck (Fiancé Megan Ellis), Megan (Marcel) Cordell, Stephanie Cordell, Morgan Sly, and Madison Sly; and great granddaughter, Rylie Halliday. He is preceded in death by his parents, Roger Cordell and Vada Minear; and sister, Doris Smith.

Memorial service will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home, 1418 Fawcett Pkwy, Nevada, IA 50201.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Nevada Masonic Lodge #99.

Rasmusson-Ryan Funeral Home in Nevada is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.rasmussonfh.com.