Leigh Banwell

Leigh Franklin Banwell, the son of Max and Anne (Croft) Banwell, was born on October 2, 1945, on the family farm north of Dows. He was educated in Dows, graduating with the “Class of 1964”. He attended the University of Iowa to learn the printing trade. He worked at newspapers in Grinnell, Hampton and Forest City before landing his dream job at the Eagle Grove Eagle in 1967.

On July 22, 1967 he married Sherry Clair in Webster City. He made his home in Eagle Grove until his death.

Leigh enjoyed his job at the newspaper until his retirement in 2011. He enjoyed traveling, gardening, and working on his rentals. Leigh loved a home cooked meal.

Leigh died at the Methodist Hospital in Des Moines on August 31, 2024 at the age 78, from a stroke. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers: Arlan and Bruce.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry; brother John (Cassie) Banwell of Newton; sisters: Arvilla Dencklau (Regie) of Clarion and Vicki Smith of Rochester MN; nephew, Robert Lunda of Eagle Grove, and more nephews and nieces.

According to his wishes he was cremated with a private burial in Rose Hill Cemetery at a later date.

He was one of the Jehovah’s Witnesses.

Leigh enjoyed Western’s especially with Clint Eastwood and often used the quote “Tomorrow is promised to no one.”

Memorials may be left to the discretion of the family.