Steve Harms Obituary

Steven Cal Harms, 74, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on July 9, 2025. He was born to parents Calvin and Iris Harms on December 20, 1950 in Sumner, Iowa. Steve is the oldest of three siblings, all of whom survive him. He leaves behind an inspiring legacy.

He graduated from Upper Iowa University in 1973 with a degree in Physical Education and a minor in Biology. During his senior year, the “Big Man on Campus” met Diane Kinkead—his perfect match. The cheerleader and the football player became partners in every sense. They married on December 21, 1974, raised five children and celebrated fourteen grandchildren in their 46 years of marriage. The lake house, pheasant hunting weekends and holiday gatherings were infused with the values Steve held dear. The memories created will forever be cherished and the traditions carried on.

Steve began his long association with Rain and Hail in 1973 as an independent crop adjuster while teaching Biology at Grinnell High School. Over the next 37 years his work ethic ascended him on a path to become President and Chairman of the Board before retiring in 2012. Years later Steve was honored with the crop insurance industry’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This was a reflection of both his professional impact and the respect he earned from colleagues across the country.

Steve devoted his time to many passions. Growing up as a multi-sport athlete and simply loving the game, he followed in the footsteps of his father and officiated basketball for over 30 years. Other hobbies included being a true outdoorsman who found peace and joy while hunting and fishing. His commitment to conservation ensured the land he nurtured and loved would be preserved for generations to come.

In 2019, Steve and Diane were inducted into the Upper Iowa University Hall of Fame in recognition of their extraordinary philanthropy and unwavering commitment to the school they both loved. Their generosity transformed Harms/Eischeid Stadium and created lasting support for the UIU cheer program. Their impact can be felt in every corner of the campus.

Beyond all achievements, Steve will ultimately be remembered for the way he made people feel. He was a gentleman through and through—genuine, kind, and full of warm welcomes. His presence lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he built, the land he cherished, and the traditions he passed on.

Steve is survived by his children Kelie Gray of Dillon, CO, Tisha (Nate) Taylor of Golden, CO, Lindsay (Travis) Juhl of Ankeny, IA, Britni (Cody) Smith of Ankeny, IA, and Jordan (Judy) Harms of Grinnell, IA; and his grandchildren Tanner, Parker and Kendal Gray, Beate, Lucy, and Olivia Taylor, Georgia and Gabriella Juhl, McKinli, Calvin, and Bentley Smith, Vincent, Willa, and Piper Harms, sister Bette Powell, brother Tom (Kim) Harms, and Mary Anne Macier; Steve’s significant other in recent years.

He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane, his parents, Calvin and Iris Harms, and brother-in-law Virgil Powell.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 15, from 3:00PM to 6:00PM at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory, 8201 Hickman Rd., Urbandale, IA 50322. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 16 at 11:00AM at Faith Lutheran Church, 10395 University Avenue, Clive, IA 50325.

In lieu of flowers and in support of Steve’s passions, memorial contributions may be made directly to the Poweshiek County Pheasants Forever Chapter, Upper Iowa University, or plant a tree in his honor, which would bring him great joy.