Dr. Oran Robert Corbett

1932 - 2017

VINTON - Dr. Oran Robert Corbett, known and loved as Doc, passed away at Virginia Gay Hospital in Vinton on Thursday, March 23, 2017, following a sudden illness.
Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 28, 2017, at Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vinton with Rev. Mark C. Urlaub officiating. Visitation was held Monday, March 27, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Van Steenhuyse-Russell Funeral Home in Vinton and one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday. Committal services will be held 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Coralville with military rites conducted by U.S. Navy Funeral Honors.
Doc was born in rural Benton County, Iowa, on March 29, 1932, to John LuVern and Wilhelmina Isabelle McMillian Corbett. He grew up on the family farm where his love of animals became evident at an early age.
He attended Vinton schools and graduated in 1949. He enlisted in the Navy, serving on the USS Wasp during the Korean War. He attended Coe College and Iowa State Veterinary College, graduating in 1960. There he met Shirley "Lee" Nelson. They were united in marriage on Aug. 20, 1956. They moved back to Vinton where he set up his veterinary practice and found great joy in caring for animals until his death.
Dr. Corbett was a member of the American Legion, Lions Club, and a former member of the Vinton School Board and Vinton Country Club. He served multiple terms as President of the Great Dane Club of Des Moines.
He enjoyed Hawkeye and Cyclone wrestling, going to the Nationals every year (except 2) since 1976. He was an avid Cubs fan, taking his family on an annual pilgrimage to Wrigley Field and was ecstatic about their 2016 championship.
Doc and Lee were devoted members of Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church since 1960, attending faithfully and serving on numerous committees.
Dr. Corbett was passionately committed to the Vinton Humane Society, donating his time for many decades. He also helped for many years at the Vinton and Walker sale barns.
He is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Lee Corbett; his daughter, Judy Corbett of Columbus WI; sons Cameron (Brenda) Corbett of Grundy Center and Mitchell (Pat) Corbett of Waukee; 8 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Evelyn Dunston; brothers, Ben Corbett and Col. Richard Corbett; and son, Jody.
A memorial fund has been established. Condolences may be left at vsrfh.com.