Herbert "Gene" Foland

Herbert “Gene” Foland, 91, passed away December 29, 2024 at Bickford of West Des Moines.

Gene was born January 15, 1933, to Herbert A. and Mabel (McDowell) Foland in Red Oak, Iowa. He attended Decatur County Schools. In May of 1951, he married Doris J. Parson. Gene enlisted in the United States Army in April of 1953, and was honorably discharged in 1955. When he returned from the military, he and Doris moved to Des Moines where he began working for Pittsburg Steel. In 1959, Gene went to work for Armstrong Tire. He retired from Pirelli-Armstrong in 1991. He was a member of the Steel Workers Local Union.

Gene enjoyed traveling and camping. He had a passion for Blue Grass Music and square dancing. Gene and Doris loved to camp and attend Blue Grass Music Festivals. Above all, Gene was a family man, he loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Gene is survived by his loving wife, Doris; son, Ben Foland and granddaughters, Darcey, Amber and Katie McKee; daughter, Roxann (David) Tomlinson and grandchildren, Janna (Mike) Potts and Jason Tomlinson; five great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandchild; many nieces and nephews; and a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Barbara Jean Foland; and his sister, Betty Bethards.

A memorial service will be held at a later date and Gene will be laid to rest at Grand River Cemetery in Decatur County.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Grand River Cemetery in Decatur County in loving memory of Gene.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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