Clarence J. Metzger

A celebration of Clarence's life will be held on Saturday, October 4th at 10:00 A.M. at Divine Mercy Catholic Parish – St. Cecelia Catholic Church, 715 E North St, Algona, IA 50511. A vigil service will be held for Clarence on Friday, October 3rd, from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at Oakcrest Funeral Services, 218 S. Moore Street, Algona, IA 50511. We invite all who knew and loved Clarence to join us in honoring his remarkable life and legacy.

Clarence J. Metzger, 88, of Algona, Iowa, passed away on September 22, 2025, at Spencer Hospital.

Clarence was born on October 11, 1936, in Fenton, Iowa, to Clarence and Camilla Metzger Sr. He graduated from St. Cecelia Academy in 1955 and soon after proudly served four years in the U.S. Navy, stationed at bases in Maryland, California, and Japan. Clarence treasured his time in the service, often sharing stories of his experiences-including his memorable cross-country hitchhiking trips home and back to duty.

After returning from the Navy, Clarence joined his father-in-law, Harry Barton, in his appliance business, Algona Refrigeration. Following Harry's untimely passing, Clarence took over and dedicated himself to growing the business. For more than 60 years, he worked tirelessly to ensure its success-continuing to run the company and provide service work until recently, despite the gentle protests of his wife and children. He took great pride in serving the Algona community through his work, building lasting relationships with generations of customers.

In 1958, Clarence married the love of his life, Barbara Barton. Together they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage until Barbara's passing in January of this year. They raised four children: Julie Brandt, Frank Metzger, John Metzger, and Edward Metzger. He was a devoted father who cherished his family above all else.

Clarence loved the outdoors. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and an accomplished trapshooter. For more than 55 years, he was a dedicated member of the East Fork Izaak Walton League, where he helped secure land adjacent to Smith Lake where the club has thrived. He also played a leading role in starting the local high school trapshooting program, and coaching young people in the shooting sports became one of his greatest joys. He was deeply passionate about introducing others to the sport and mentoring the next generation.

In addition, Clarence proudly served in the Algona Fire Department for over 35 years, where he made lifelong friendships and created countless memories.

Those who knew Clarence will remember him as honest, hardworking, and dependable-a man with a quick wit, a caring nature, and a deep devotion to his family and community.

Clarence is survived by his children-Julie Brandt(Greg), Frank Metzger, John Metzger(Danielle), and Ed Metzger(Michelle)-along with a growing number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Jill, Jeff, Gracie, Daniel, Sara, Lisa, Taylor, Sam, Lindsay, Preston, Julian, Max, Carter, Kinley, Sophie, Kolten, Kiera, Kellen, Gemma, and Davis.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara; his parents, Clarence and Camilla Metzger Sr.; and his sisters, Shirley Callesen and Connie Metzger