Alvin "Dean" Harrenstein

It is with sad and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alvin “Dean” Harrenstein, who passed away on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at UnityPoint Health-Allen Memorial Hospital in Waterloo. He fought hard, but ultimately succumbed from complications of surgery. A private service for Dean will be held and burial will take place at Oak Hill Cemetery in Parkersburg. Memorials may be directed to the family. Memories of Dean and messages of condolence may be left at www.abelsfuneralhomes.com
Dean was born on January 27, 1946, in Marshalltown, the son of Alvin G. & Grace (Beenken) Harrenstein. He grew up in Grundy Center, and graduated from Grundy Center High School in 1964. After high school, he attended UEI (United Electrical Institute) in Des Moines and then transferred to Marshalltown Community College, where he obtained his 2 -year degree. On December 29, 1967, Dean was united to the love of his life, Joyce Oldenburger. The couple were overjoyed to welcome daughter Kristi, and son Barry.
During his electrical career, Dean worked for Collins Radio (now as Rockwell Collins) in Cedar Rapids and Smith Electric in Parkersburg. From 1974 until January of 1987, Dean owned and operated Dean’s Electric. He then went on to do electrical work for UNI, retiring 2009, Dec. 31st. Dean never really retired from electric work. It was his passion! He always said even as a young boy, that he wanted to be an electrician. It was his true calling.
In his free time, Dean loved to tinker with things, and could fix, well, everything. His family said he could build the impossible! Dean also enjoyed woodworking and had just finished building baby cradles for his great grandchildren. He enjoyed the outdoors; mostly camping and fishing, especially taking trips with his family to Minnesota. Dean was also always up for an adventure; whether it be seeing his grandchildren in different states, or just traveling with his family.
Dean was also very particular, could be strict, but he was a provider. He was determined & hardworking, honest & giving, and faithful. He was a true believer of God, a reader of the Bible and he believed in God’s will. He was a devoted family man, and was so proud of his kids, especially his grandchildren that he doted on and loved to the ends of the earth. Dean will be so terribly missed and although it hurts so much he’s gone, he was loved beyond measure. Until we see him again, we will hold you in our hearts.
Dean is survived by his beloved wife Joyce, of 52 years of Parkersburg; Kristi (Dwight) Eley of Montezuma, IA and Barry (Amanda) Harrenstein of Hubbard, IA; 8 grandchildren Chandler (Natalie) Eley of Johnston, IA, Brandon (Alexyss) Eley of Huxley, IA, Madison (Weston) Neuendorf of Parkersburg, Collin & Kylie Harrenstein of Hubbard and Abigail, Piper, & Peyton Overturf; great-grandchildren Finley, Thea, Avery & Grayson; brother Larry (Julie) Harrenstein and sister Brenda (Jack) Cherry; several nieces and 1 nephew; beloved furry companions, Sophie and Izzy. He rejoins in Heaven, his parents.