Joseph Leroy Soper Jr.

Joseph Leroy Soper Jr., 90, of Olin, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, at the Anamosa Care Center. Born on February 10, 1935, to Joseph Soper Sr. and Marie Clark, Joe grew up with a deep love for hard work, family, and the Iowa land he called home. In 1958, he married Carmelita Moore, in Waterloo. Together they built a life filled with a whole lot of laughter. Joe owned and operated Soper Construction for many years and also farmed his land. He proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the United States Army. Joe was also a longtime member of the Olin American Legion. Joe was happiest outsideâ€"with a fishing pole in his hand. The river was his peace, his playground, and his favorite place to spend time. He enjoyed golfing with Carm, gambling, the Iowa Hawkeyes and most of all, being surrounded by his family. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were truly the joy of his world. Those left to carry on his stories include his three children: Steven (Nancy) Soper of Olin; Susan Soper of Ankeny and Judie (Tim) Williamson of Houston, Texas. grandchildren: Heather (Kevin) Skinner of Olin; Kristen (Zach) Himes of Ankeny; Kara Rex of Athens, GA; and Kelsey Williamson of New York City. His great-grandchildrenâ€"Kolby (Hailee) Soper of Olin, Lauryn and Chesney Himes of Ankeny, Sadie and Easton Skinner of Olinâ€"and his two great-great-grandchildren Eli and Evelyn Soper. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Carmelita, and his sister Mary Jane. and his special grandson Daniel. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to share memories of a man who meant so much to so many. Dawson Funeral Services of Olin is caring for Joe's family. Online condolences may be shared at www.dawsonfuneral.com. Cards of condolence may be mailed to Dawson Funeral Services, P.O. Box 258, Wyoming, Iowa 52362.