Jackson D. “Jack” Cornelius, 88, of Waterloo, Iowa and formerly of Independence and Delhi, Iowa died Wednesday, January 25th, 2017 at Unity Point – Allen Hospital in Waterloo, Iowa.

Jack was born on November 22, 1928 in Waterloo, Iowa the son of Don and Viola “Nancy” (Parkins) Cornelius. He attended the Waterloo Schools, and served in the US Army. He was a gifted self-taught entrepreneur with business endeavors as an independent truck driver, bar and restaurants, several manufacturing companies the most recent being the Iowa Engineering Processes Corp. of Independence, IA.

He was active in many civic ventures and charitable organizations. His kind demeaner and friendly spirit will be missed by all who knew him. The sting of his passing is now eased by knowing he resides in his celestial home.

Jack is survived by three children: Steve (Jeannie) Cornelius, Topeka, Kansas, Deborah (Don) Hickey, Vinton, Iowa, and Craig Cornelius, Waterloo, IA. Three step-children: Barb Cirese, Solon, Iowa, Lona Feldman, Eugene, Oregon, and Judy Welty, Center Point, Iowa. Seven grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, six great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Scott Cornelius, a brother; Donald Cornelius, and spouses; Jacquelyn Murray, Alice Cornelius, Marvis Cornelius, his companion Bernice Lehmkuhl, and a step-daughter Judy Armstrong.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM Monday, January 30th, 2017 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Independence, IA with Rev. Greg DeBoer and Pastor David Condry officiating. Burial will be held at 2 PM Monday at Orange Township Cemetery, Waterloo, Iowa. Friends may call from 2 to 6 PM Sunday at the Reiff Funeral Home & Crematory, Independence, IA and from 9 AM till services Monday at the church.

Memorials may be directed to: Camp Courageous, 12007 190th Street, Monticello, IA 52310-0418.