Dr. Tyrrell Remembered as Cornerstone of Manchester Community

This past weekend, the Manchester community had an opportunity to say goodbye to a man who has had a profound impact on this area for many years.

Dr. John Tyrrell passed away on November 30th at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester. He was 100 years old. 

Dr. Tyrrell, who was born in Greeley, had returned home to Delaware County in his early adult life after serving in World War Two, graduating from the University of Iowa Medical School and starting his medical career in Minnesota. Upon coming back to Manchester, he worked with Dr. Clark before opening his own practice.

Along with being a family practitioner for the Delaware County community for fifty years, Dr. Tyrrell was well known for his active involvement in numerous organizations, including the Iowa Board of Regents, the West Delaware School Board, Manchester Methodist Church, the Boy Scouts and the Manchester Lions Club. He also played a key role in developing the Delaware County Rec Center and starting Manchester Enterprises. One of his final projects was helping to create the “Freedom Is Not Free” Veterans Memorial at Baum Park in Manchester. 

For decades, even into his later years in life, Dr. Tyrrell was considered “a cornerstone in the community”, beloved by many local residents and leaders – many of whom helped him celebrate his milestone 100th birthday last July..

When Dr. Tyrrell was honored with KMCH’s Valued Volunteer Award in 2015 – at the age of 91 – he shared with us these words of wisdom:

Funeral services for Dr. Tyrrell were held Saturday at Manchester Methodist Church. The family is asking that any memorials be directed to the Delaware County Rec Center.

photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker