Cecil Joseph Blum, Jr.

Cecil Joseph Blum, Jr., age 74, passed away on March 14, 2025, at Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska. Born to Anna Mary (Muell) and Cecil Blum Sr. on August 29, 1950, at their family home, Cecil was a beloved member of his community and a dedicated family man.

He graduated from Irwin-Kirkman School in 1968 and later pursued a degree in Business Administration from Iowa Western Community College. His professional career began with the purchase of Parrot’s Standard Station in Denison and later the purchase of Sparky’s Standard Station in Harlan. Cecil developed and was owner of CeBeCo Auto business in Denison which he continued until his retirement. He and his brothers were also in business together as co-owners of Blum’s Motor World in Harlan. His life-long love for all forms of vehicles presented in all aspects of his life – fast cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, a dune buggy and side by side ATV’s. He became well-known for his integrity and commitment to his customers. Additionally, Cecil served his community with pride on the Denison City Council and as a County Supervisor of Crawford County, reflecting his deep commitment to civic duty.

Cecil proudly served as a sergeant in the Iowa Army National Guard, from which he was honorably discharged in 1975. His military service was one of the many ways he demonstrated leadership and dedication throughout his life.

He and his three brothers created the B4 Farms. Farming and the love of land was very ingrained in his life from an early age farming with his father and brothers. His love of agriculture was evident in his daily life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Cecil was an avid pilot, having owned his own plane for over 30 years. His passion for flying was matched only by his love for spending time with family and fostering close relationships with friends.

Cecil married Shawn Chapman on December 26, 1999, and with this marriage, he was blessed to become a father and grandfather. Cecil and Shawn found the love of traveling together, they visited places all over the United States and other countries. Their adventures together created lasting memories.

Cecil is survived by his wife, Shawn Blum of Denison, IA; children, Erin (Brandon) Mengwasser of Denison, IA, and Brent (Angie Gerace) VanBibber of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren Carly Tague, Rylie Mengwasser, Landon Mengwasser; and one great-grandchild, Giovanni Hoessler. He is also remembered fondly by his siblings, Garry (Michelle) Blum of Harlan, IA; Cheryl (Richard) Bockelmann of Denison, IA; Anna (Harris) Miller of Ft. Worth, TX; Candi (Richard) DeCarlo of Harlan, IA; Colleen (Kevin) Kenkel of Earling, IA; Michelle Cowan-Schroeder (Steve) of Remsen, IA; Rhonda (Rick) Ketelsen of Denison, IA; Bryan (Brenda) Blum of Harlan, IA; as well as sisters-in-law Karen Blum of Harlan, IA, Dana (Brent) Zimmerman of Waukee, IA and brothers-in-law Kirk (Katie) Chapman of Logan, IA and Mitch Chapman of Silt, CO.

Cecil was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Terry Blum; and sister, Rosalie Blum and brother-in-law Joe Cowan.

Cecil Joseph Blum, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and joy in the lives of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family, friends, and community. 

In Lieu of flowers, the family of Cecil requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.