Warren Willard Means

Warren Willard Means age 93 of Fredericksburg, IA died Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at New Hampton Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.
A graveside service at Rose Hill Cemetery in Fredericksburg will be held at a later date.
Born on November 17, 1931, in Madison Township, rural Buchanan County, Warren was the beloved son of Charles and Aletha (Fry) Means. He lived a full and vibrant life, characterized by his love for his family, his country, and the great outdoors.
Warren's early years were spent in the heartland, where he graduated from New Hampton High School. His sense of duty led him to serve his country with honor as a member of the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War. Enlisting on August 26, 1950, Warren dedicated himself to the service until his honorable discharge on March 19, 1952. This formative experience instilled in him a lifelong commitment to his fellow veterans and his community.
After his military service, Warren returned to his roots in Fredericksburg, Iowa, and married Faythe J (Benner) Means at the Little Brown Church in Nashua. Though their marriage later ended in divorce, their union was blessed with six children who were the pride and joy of Warren's life. His early days were spent working the land, and this connection to the earth guided him into a successful career in agronomy sales. Warren managed agricultural fertilizer plants throughout Northeast Iowa, showing a natural talent for leadership and a deep understanding of the industry. He eventually owned and operated the Shell Rock Fertilizer Plant until his well-deserved retirement.
An active life was a hallmark of Warren's character. He was deeply involved in several organizations, including AmVets, the American Legion, and the Lions Club. His leadership skills were recognized when he served as the Past Commodore of the Prairie du Chien Yacht Club. His dedication to his fellow servicemen was further honored in 2014 with an Honor Flight and the cherished reception of a Quilt of Valor, recognizing his sacrifices for his country.
Warren's love for the water was not just a professional endeavor but also a source of personal joy. He spent his summers boating on the Mississippi River and was a respected member of the PDC Yacht Club in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. His adventurous spirit led him to become a snowbird, wintering in Redington Shores, Florida for over 30 years. There, he embraced life to the fullest, making countless friends within the Surfside Beach Club community. He was known for his appreciation of music, dancing, and the simple pleasure of toasting to the sunset on the Gulf of Mexico with friends. Warren always kept an eye out for the solar green flash at the horizon, a natural marvel he was fortunate to witness multiple times.
Warren's legacy is one of love, laughter, and an unwavering zest for life. He leaves behind a family who admired his strength, his community who respected his dedication, and friends who will miss his warm presence. His spirit will continue to guide those who were lucky enough to know him as they find comfort in the memories of the times they shared. Warren Willard Means was a man who lived fully, served proudly, and loved deeply. His journey through life was a testament to the joy and resilience of the human spirit, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Warren is survived by daughters: Trish (Pat) Neuroth, Rhonda (Steve) Plamann, Sherri (Steve) Carolan, and Carolyn (Carey) Rebstock; son Jeff Means; grandchildren: Bethany (Justin) Herman, Amy (Jason) Husveth, Allison (Andrew) Vavra, Kristen (Mike) Hanten, Eric Choudoir, Shaun Means, Chantell Means, Brandon Means, Stephan Cook, and Jill (Michael) Nesteby; great-grandchildren: Colton, Leighton, Mason, Brooklyn, Zachary, Wyatt, Jace, Jonathan, and Alexus; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Aletha (Fry) Means; sister Thelma Allen; and son Larry Means.
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