Worthin Edward Grattan, 88, was born Nov. 13, 1936, and died May 26, 2025.
Worthin was the oldest child of Leland Gordon and Stephanie Louise (Camp) Grattan. He grew up on the Albert G. Williams Farm and Nursery in Chester Township, north of Grinnell, where he learned his hard work ethic as a farmer and dairyman. He attended Country School #6 through sixth grade and then attended high school in Grinnell with the Class of 1955.
After high school, he worked for a short time before enlisting in the U.S. Navy. He completed boot camp in San Diego and was assigned to the aircraft carrier, USS Bon Homme Richard. He proudly served his country from December 1955 to May 1959 and achieved the rank of EM3 Electrician. He made two Pacific cruises and visited Hawaii, Japan, Hong Kong, and other Far East ports of call. He finished his service at Hunter’s Point, CA. Over the years, Worthin attended many reunions for the Bonny Dick and looked forward to reconnecting with old shipmates. For one last trip, Worthin was excited to be part of the Honor Flight Program to Washington, DC, on May 28, 2024.
After his discharge, Worthin returned to the family farm. Apr. 3, 1960, he married Maretta DeVaun Jones. They were married for 65 years, and we thank God for this testimony of faithfulness. Their union was blessed with two children, Edward Charles and Lynn Lucille “Linda.” Worthin worked the family farm and dairy until 1972 when he sold the livestock and equipment. In 2010, Grattan Farms was recognized by the Iowa Department of Agriculture as a Heritage Farm, signifying continuous family ownership for 150 years or more.
Even though he left farming, he did not leave the farm and he began his new career in tiling and farm drainage. He first worked with his father-in-law Chester Jones and then began his own business Grattan Backhoe and Tiling in 1978. Worthin was a hard worker, a generous boss, and was proud of the part he played in land stewardship. He was a longtime member of Land Improvement Contractors of America (LICA). He loved meeting other contractors at both the state and national conventions. He served on many committees and was a past president of the Iowa LICA Southeast District. Worthin provided quality service for 34 years, selling the business in 2012. In 2014, the Iowa LICA honored him as their Contractor of the Year with the inaugural Shiny Shovel Award.
He never met a stranger, and he could have a conversation with anyone. Worthin served on many boards and committees, including the board of Central Iowa Christian School, Poweshiek County Republicans, Poweshiek County Farm Bureau, and Heritage Park. Worthin was honored with the Governor’s Life-Saving Award in 2001. He and Maretta sponsored many local athletes for various teams and camps.
Worthin was especially proud of his grandchildren, and he and Maretta made many trips to Phoenix to cheer them on in athletic and school programs. He was always ready to tell you about their latest achievements.
Worthin was preceded in death by his parents and two younger brothers Albert and Gordon. He is survived by his wife Maretta; son Ed (Jaye) Grattan; daughter Lynn Nixon; grandchildren Sydney and Steven Nixon; younger sister Julie (TJ) Colburn; sister-in-law Helen Grattan; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family would like to thank the staff of St. Francis Manor for their compassionate care for the past nine months.
A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 14, at Grinnell Christian Church with a luncheon following at the church. A visitation will be held 4:30-6:30 p.m., Friday, June 13, at Smith Funeral Home, Grinnell. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be designated to the LICA Scholarship Program or to Central Iowa Christian School. Checks may be mailed in care of Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.
