Neil Griffin, age 91, of Odebolt, IA, passed away at Mercy Medical Center in Sioux City, IA on Tuesday, November 27, 2018.  Neil was born on March 18, 1927, in Doon, IA, to Ralph and Marion (McKerral) Griffin.  He moved with his family to Odebolt where he attended school and graduated from Odebolt High School. 

   Immediately after graduation, on May 16, 1945, Neil was inducted into the United States Merchant Marine, serving his country at the end of World War II. He was honorably discharged on April 30, 1947.  He met Ulla Liisa Valtari, and they were united in marriage on July 31, 1949 in Kotka, Finland.  This union was blessed with two children: Dan and Lisa.  They made their home in Odebolt where Neil spent the rest of his adult life managing and owning Odebolt State Bank.  He enjoyed watching his children grow and had a love for animals, especially his two cats and dog.

   Survivors left to cherish Neil’s memory include his son Dan Griffin and wife Barb of Elizabeth, CO; daughter Lisa Clark and husband Paul of Story City IA; grandchildren: Brian Clark, Ann Clark, Meghan Griffin Espinoza and Nicki Griffin; great grandchildren: Elena and Elita Espinoza; and by long-time friend Lucille Fiebelkorn of Odebolt, IA.

   Neil was preceded in death by his wife Ulla Valtari Griffin, parents Ralph and Marion Griffin and brothers Sydney and Gordon Griffin.