Earl R. Waller, 60, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away from complications of Liver Cancer on Friday morning, January 16, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Earl Richard Waller was born on May 3, 1965, in Jackson County, Iowa.  He was the son of Clarence R. and Alberta Marie (Heister) Waller. He grew up on the family farm, which he would later tend with the same love and dedication that was instilled in him from a young age.

A graduate of Cascade High School, Earl was known for his strong work ethic. In September of 1994, he married the love of his life, Janet Denlinger, in Wyoming, Iowa.

Earl’s life was marked by his dedication to the land and the animals he cared for. He farmed the family farm in the rural Bernard area his entire life, embodying the true spirit of a farmer with his resilience and connection to the earth.

Beyond his work on the farm, Earl had a zest for life that was contagious.  His sense of humor was legendary, and he was often referred to as the best storyteller ever. His tales were filled with wit and wisdom.  He also was an avid league bowler for 39 years rolling a perfect 300 game with many years being spent at Legacy Lanes in Monticello, Iowa. His competitive spirit and camaraderie with his teammates were hallmarks of his time at the lanes.

Fishing was another of Earl’s great joys. He was an expert angler, relishing the pursuit of Walleye, Crappie, Perch, and Bluegill. His yearly fishing trips to the Bemidji, Minnesota area were a source of great happiness and adventure, creating memories that will be treasured by all who accompanied him.

Earl’s love for the outdoors extended to hunting, where he tracked Deer, Turkey, Pheasant, and Squirrel.  Additionally, Earl was a devoted fan of the Denver Broncos and enjoyed the daily challenge of watching Jeopardy, often impressing others with his wealth of knowledge.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Janet Waller of Bernard, IA; brothers, Allan (Tonya) Waller of Bernard, IA, and Tom Waller of Zwingle, IA; sister, Rose (Randy) Stoffel of Bernard, IA; half-sisters, Linda Hoftender and Sally O’Dell; nephews, Austin, Alex, Gregory, Mike, Matt, and Austin S.; nieces, Taylor, Jeanna, Jessica, Jennifer, Karen, and Jennie; aunts, Shirley Gartman, Marie Klein, and Martha Heister; and uncles Roger Heister and Morgan Heister; and many family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, half-sister Barb Gantenbein, and sister-in-law Bonnie Waller.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11 A.M. to 4 P.M. at the North Garryowen Hall, 28914 46th Avenue, Bernard, Iowa (just off the Bellevue-Cascade Rd.).  A time of sharing will take place at 1:30 P.M.  In accordance with his wishes cremation has taken place.  A private family burial will be held at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.