Hugh Griffin Jr.

Hugh Griffin Jr., 78, of Indianola, passed away on March 1, 2026. Funeral services will
be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery near
Van Meter.
Hugh was born on March 11, 1947, in Creston, Iowa, to Hugh and June Griffin Sr. He
spent his early childhood in Creston before moving with his family to Cedar Rapids,
Iowa, at the age of six. Hugh graduated from Jefferson High School in 1965 and later
attended Mankato State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology
and sociology.
Hugh proudly served his country in the United States Army, stationed in South Korea
during the Vietnam era, and returned home in August of 1971.
Following his military service, Hugh dedicated much of his career to serving fellow
veterans. He worked as the head of the VA Cost and Valuation Department in Iowa until
his retirement in 1997. Afterward, he continued working as an independent real estate
appraiser until retiring in 2003.
Hugh enjoyed life and the people around him. He was an avid motorcyclist and took
many memorable rides across several states with his wife, Patricia, and close friends.
He also loved traveling throughout the country. In addition to his time on the road, Hugh
enjoyed horseback riding and mule riding—having a particular fondness for mules.
Known for his warm and friendly nature, Hugh truly loved people. One of the things that
brought him the greatest satisfaction was helping disabled veterans design and build
adaptive housing suited to their needs.
Hugh is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Patricia.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Judith Dlouhy.