The Gazette recently published several obituaries highlighting the lives of notable figures from the local community, memorializing their contributions and the legacies they leave behind. Among those remembered are Jerry A. Fankhauser, Joan Yvonne Ettinger, and Robert "Bob" Henry Hendricks.
Jerry A. Fankhauser, aged 73, passed away on February 9, 2025. Known for his warm personality and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures, Jerry spent his final moments at home, surrounded by family and cherished memorabilia. Born on January 7, 1952, in Iowa City, Iowa, he was the son of Gerald and Helen (Robinson) Fankhauser. After graduating from Pekin High School, he contributed to the community working for the City of Coralville and later the University of Iowa. Jerry enjoyed spending time camping, fishing, and proudly supporting the Iowa Hawkeyes, but perhaps nothing brought him more joy than sharing Busch Light with family and friends in his beloved man cave.
Jerry is survived by three daughters: Amy Fager (Jim), Angie Staff, and Michelle "Shelly" Snyder, as well as three granddaughters: Rachel, Andrea, and Alyvia Fager. His legacy also includes his mother, Helen Fankhauser, three sisters, and two brothers. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Judy; their infant son, Jerimy; and several siblings. While services honoring his life are yet to be scheduled, he will be buried alongside Judy at the Lone Tree Cemetery.
Another figure who touched many lives was Joan Yvonne Ettinger, aged 94, who peacefully departed on February 6, 2025. Joan’s life was filled with love and dedication to her family. Born on May 19, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of Leroy and Marie (Miller) Armstrong. Joan was married twice, first to Ellis Duane Ehrstine, who passed away in 2001, and then to Marlin Haines Ettinger, who died in 2010. She and her daughter moved to the Iowa City area only recently, but she leaves behind treasured memories.
Joan is survived by her two children: Glenn Ehrstine (Elizabeth Heineman) of Iowa City and Linda Marie Ehrstine of Coralville, along with her grandson, Julian Ehrstine. Her memorial service is scheduled for February 15, 2025, at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, with visitation prior to the service. Her memory will be honored through donations to the League of Women Voters and Planned Parenthood.
Lastly, Robert "Bob" Henry Hendricks, 72, passed away after receiving compassionate care at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy on February 10, 2025. Born on February 14, 1952, he grew up on a farm near Little Chute, Wisconsin, the youngest of fourteen children. Bob’s military service as a Cryptanalytic Specialist and Airborne Paratrooper during the Vietnam War was just one aspect of his varied life.
Bob spent 44 years working at Rockwell Collins as a Senior Principal Electrical Engineer, where he made significant contributions to flight simulator designs. Off the clock, he cherished family moments, especially with his four grandchildren. His love for cars and NASCAR, particularly for driver Mark Martin, was well-known among friends and family, as was his love for gardening and collecting coins.
Bob is survived by his wife, Sandy (Westhoff) Hendricks, their two daughters, Holly Ann White and Carrie Lynn Eastvold, and all four grandchildren. He was also blessed with many siblings and extended family. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Saint Pius X Catholic Church, followed by military honors. His family encourages those unable to attend the service to participate via livestream, which can be accessed on Bob’s Tribute Wall.
The obituaries of Jerry, Joan, and Bob serve not only as tributes to their lives but also as reminders of the impact individuals can have on their communities and families. Each service offers the opportunity for family, friends, and community members to come together, reflecting on shared memories and the love these individuals spread throughout their lifetimes.