Ivan Raymond Mies

Ivan R. Mies , age 76, of Litchfield passed away peacefully on October 7, 2015 at St. Mary's Memory Care in Winsted after years of struggling with Dementia. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am on Monday, October 12, 2015, at the St. Gertrude's Catholic Church in Forest City. Visitation will be held from 4-6pm on Sunday at the church with a parish prayer service at 6pm. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in the St. Gertrude's Catholic Cemetery in Forest City. Ivan Raymond Mies, the son of Stephan and Eleanor (Arens) Mies, was born on January 19, 1939, in Litchfield. He attended country school and grew up in the Litchfield area where he worked for Farmers Produce (later Jennie-O). Ivan was united in marriage to Donna Eley. He owned and operated Mies Auto Salvage for over 50 years, retiring in 2009. Many of his customers became close friends and they would stop by the salvage yard just to visit. His memorable laugh was sure to be heard during those visits while sharing stories, catching up and finishing a pot of coffee. He enjoyed working with people and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Armed with overalls, a stocking cap and work boots, his work was endless as he always found exactly the car parts his customers were looking for and worked into the night operating Ivan's Towing. He was always on call ready to help, including the phone call at 2am with a flat tire and those stranded in the heaviest snow storms. Watching him prepare the next semi load of crushed cars was truly an experience. He enjoyed old cars and was a regular attendee at the demolition derbies. He will be missed by his family and friends. He is survived by his brothers, Cecil (Mary) Mies of Buffalo, Herb (Clara) Mies of Sauk Center and sister, Mary Olson of Willmar. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Donna, and brothers, Harold and infant Francis. Previous Events Visitation Sunday, October 11, 2015 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM St. Grutrude's Catholic Church 31608 650th Avenue Forest City, MN 55355 Visitation Monday, October 12, 2015 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM St. Grutrude's Catholic Church 31608 650th Avenue Forest City, MN 55355