William (Bill) Ira Campfield

William (Bill) Ira Campfield passed away on December 3, 2025, at the Veterans Home
in Minneapolis, Minnesota, surrounded by his family during his final days.
He was born on October 7, 1931, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Samuel Ellis and Grace
LaNell (Ford) Campfield. Bill graduated from East High School in Des Moines, Iowa, in
1949, where he was a member of the Photography and Journal Club and contributed to
the “Quill,” the East High Yearbook.
In 1953, Bill enlisted in the United States Army during the Korean War and served in
Germany, assisting with the newly formed Air Force. He was honorably discharged and
remained proud of his military service throughout his life.
On July 24, 1956, Mr. Campfield married Judith Kay Hansen. Their union lasted until his
passing in 2025. Mr. Campfield particularly valued his roles as grandfather and great-
grandfather, dedicating much of his time to his family.
Throughout his career, Mr. Campfield held various positions, including Fireman, Food
Locker Manager, Steel Buyer for John Deere, Steel Salesman for multiple companies,
and owner of a Gambles Hardware store later named Pleasantville Hardware in
Pleasantville, Iowa, where he and Judy raised their family.
Mr. Campfield’s hobbies included golfing, gardening, stained glass, playing cards, his
annual fishing trip, bingo and the ukulele. A passionate genealogist, he served as the
Campfield family historian. He was also a source of computer advice for his children for
many years.
Mr. Campfield was guided throughout his life by a deep commitment to civic service. He
dedicated countless hours to the Pleasantville community, volunteering with the
Pleasantville Country Club, Pleasantville Emergency Services, and serving on the
Pleasantville School Board. A passionate historian, he chaired the Book Committee and
was the principal researcher for Pleasantville Past and Present.
Alongside his wife, he volunteered at Mercy Hospital before later contributing his time to
Living History Farms and the Iowa State Fair Museum, where he served as both
Superintendent and Historian. Under his leadership, the museum transitioned to a new
facility—an achievement that helped preserve and share Iowa’s rich fair history for
future generations. In honor of his service, a tree and commemorative plaque bearing
his name were placed outside the museum, a lasting tribute to his dedication. He was
further recognized in August 2007 when he was named “Iowan for a Day” at the Iowa
State Fairgrounds.
A member of the Lutheran Church, Mr. Campfield was active in his congregations while
residing in Iowa.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ellis and Grace, and his granddaughter Tara
Ann Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Judy; sister, Pat Lee (Orville); daughters
Candace Staar (Brad), Marilyn Woosley, Judith Hamlin (Pete); son Michael Campfield
(Susan); grandchildren Brian Hamlin (Leslie), Jake Hamlin (AndreaLynn), Kevin Hamlin
(Jennifer), Brad Johnson, Joe Campfield, Jennifer Honnold (Dan); and 11 great-
grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren with 1 more expected in May.
A memorial service will be held at a future date at the Veterans Home in Minneapolis.
Memorial donations in Mr. Campfield’s memory may be directed to the Minneapolis
Veterans Home, Grace Hospice of Minneapolis and/or ChildServe in Johnston, Iowa.