Carl Deloss Moyer, Jr.
June 19, 1941 — September 28, 2024
Carl D. Moyer
June 19, 1941 – September 28, 2024
Carl D. Moyer (Owner & founder of Karl Chevrolet and the Karl Auto Group) passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his beloved family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, whose love for his family knew no bounds.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents, Martha Jean and Carl DeLoss Moyer Sr., and his sister, Florence Kathleen Moyer. He is survived by his cherished wife, Penny; his children, Bret (Tammy), Pam (Tom), and Brad (Melody); and his grandchildren, Jami (David), Carli (Jayden), Molli (David), Jordan, Savannah, Whitney, and Brylee. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Paityn, Adonis, and Georgia.
From a young age, Carl had a passion for cars that would influence his entire life. He began his journey in the automotive business at Herman’s Texaco, where he displayed cars for sale and honed his negotiation skills. By age 19, he had become the sales manager at Dick Walter Ford, showcasing his talent and dedication to the automotive business.
Carl started Karl Chevrolet on Jan. 9, 1978, in a one car showroom in Ankeny Ia. He moved just a few years later to the corner of Oralabor and Delaware Ave. in 1983 where now the iconic dealership resides and is a community staple. The Karl Auto Group is now comprised of 10 companies and over 800 employees in IA.
Carl’s love for racing was a lifelong passion. He and his brothers would gather in their shared bedroom, listening to the thrilling sounds of races at the Iowa State Fair Grounds every Friday night. In 1986, he took his love of racing to the next level by starting his professional drag racing career, which he pursued until his retirement in 2000. He continued to race with the DTRA starting in 2001, always striving for perfection on and off the track.
His journey with Penny began with a blind date at the young age of 16, though they were not each other’s original dates, it wasn’t long until they connected and fell in love. They married in 1960 and built a life filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.
Carl was not only a fierce competitor but also a compassionate philanthropist with a heart of gold. He was a fearless leader, inspiring those around him with his kindness and generosity.
His family meant everything to him, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Family and friends are invited to come together to celebrate the remarkable life of Carl D. Moyer with a visitation on Sunday October 6th, 2024 from 1-5pm at the Ankeny Karl Chevrolet dealership.
Funeral services will be Monday October 7th, 2024 at the Ankeny Lutheran Church of Hope, 520 NW 36th St, Ankeny Ia. with a private burial to follow. Services will be live streamed, the link will be published soon.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his memory to Community Champions, 210 NE Delaware Ave. Ste. 200, Ankeny Iowa 50021. Please put “Moyer memorial” in the memo line.
Kathy Picray-Simpson
10/03/2024
I was told that Karl grew up near my parents' home north of the State Fairgrounds. My mom had stopped in at the Karl's Showroom to 'shop' several years ago and ran into Carl. I was told that he recognized my mom immediately and then gave her a personalized grand tour of the property; She was happy for his success, shared some history, and applauded his solid values and kindness.
In 1951, the old neighborhood was largely open grassland, and the Fairgrounds was in plain view. Like my older brothers, I imagine that Carl peddled a few empty pop bottles for spending money when the Fair arrived, and occupied the Grandstand (or the fence) on Saturday nights in summer for the auto races. Back then Lee Township was alive and well and would forever be the rally call for as long as we remembered; "Lee Township against the world!" Today we've lost an icon and he will be missed.
Rest easy, Mr. Moyer, and thank you! You've raised us up, set the bar, made us proud, and we'll always remember you fondly.
Condolences and sympathy for the family, and for those that will grieve his absence beyond this moment.
-Kathy Picray-Simpson
Deanna Scripture
10/03/2024
Though I did not personally know him, my late brother, Mike Cox, thought the world of him. Mike joined Karl Chevrolet and, despite heart failure, lung cancer, lung removal, more lung cancer, aortic valve replacement, hip replacements and knee replacement, Carl supported Michael and allowed him grace multiple times. He was a kind, generous and empathetic employer and my sister and I are grateful that Michael had the good fortune to work for him until his death. Good bless Carl and bring him Eternal Peace. I pray Michael is welcoming
Him as he welcomed Michael. 🙏🏻❤️
Allan J. Knepper
10/02/2024
I still remember like it was yesterday. I was the GM Chevrolet Service Rep calling on Karl Chevrolet. One day Carl said "lets go to lunch, I want to show you something". I jumped in and he drove us out to the closed Ford dealership building. He unlocked the front door. The showroom was filled with chairs all facing a large podium. The empty showroom was being used for Sunday church services. Carl proceeded to lay out his vision...hopes.....dreams....plans to somehow acquire the bldg and turn it into a mega Chevrolet dealership. He said he was scared to death, but he knew he could make it work......and the rest is history !! I sat across from his desk years later (as I was on my way to play with some Legends cars at his track) .....we both just laughed and shook our heads as we recounted that day.
A man with a dream.....who knew how to make it happen with family and a great family of employees. Thanks for all the memories. May he rest in peace
Allan J. Knepper
Chevrolet Motor Division.....retired
Patrick A. Murray
10/02/2024
A mentor , hero, father, grandpa, great grandpa, friend & true car guy beleave me. Im very grateful to have Worked for & with Him. His Values And Eye For Detail Are Unsurpassed.The Time Spent At The track Racing The Trucks Carl#3 Bret#98 & ( My Fav ) Brad#21were the Best. I Asked Carl, Why The Color Purple. He Said Passion. It All made Perfect Sence. That The Day My Color Prefrance Changed. Passion For Life, So Simple. Sorta Wonder Is That how The Slogan For Dealrship Came To Be.
Patrick A. Murray
Cheryl Schoof
10/02/2024
Our hearts and prayers are with the Moyer family. Carl was one of the best, Boss, Leader, Mentor, and I am so thankful for the years I spent with the Karl Chevrolet Family!!
With our sincere sympathy and love,
Steve & Cheryl Schoof
Jose & Donna Medina
10/02/2024
A true gentleman. He loved everybody. Had a place in his heart for Veterans. Will always be remembered. Rest in Peace.