Timothy Dave Roland

Timothy Dave Roland, age 68, passed away on March 6, 2026, peacefully at his home in Mitchellville, Iowa, surrounded by loved ones.

Tim was born in Des Moines, Iowa, on December 30, 1957, to David and Esther (Oleta) Roland. He grew up on the family farm just outside Knoxville, where he developed a lifelong love for farm life. He graduated from Knoxville High School in 1976. Shortly after high school, Tim began a remarkable 43-year career at Rolscreen (later known as Pella Windows) in Pella, Iowa, where he contributed his skills and dedication until retirement.

Tim helped raise his three children Stephanie, Travis, and Doug with his ex-wife Cheryl in Knoxville. In 2006, he embraced a new chapter, moving to the small-town charm of Mitchellville with his wife, Sara Roland.

A true farm boy at heart, Tim cherished raising cattle, driving his beloved 1954 John Deere Model 60 tractor, and especially his 1995 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel truck, which he regarded as his pride and joy. He was also a talented woodworker, crafting cabinets, picture frames, hope chests, children’s toys, and meticulously reproducing historic trim for renovations in his Mitchellville home.

Though he rarely traveled far in his earlier years—always citing the need to tend to the cows—Tim later enjoyed several meaningful trips. He visited San Antonio, Texas for his son Travis’s Air Force graduation, then onto England where Travis was stationed. Tim also went on getaway outings to Branson, Missouri, and the Ozarks. Oh and Los Vegas, which was not his cup of tea. Then after that, for 12 years, he and Sara made annual journeys to the beautiful island of Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Over time, the locals and shopkeepers there came to know him fondly as “Mr. Whiskers.” These trips eventually ended due to health challenges that made the long travel and island heat difficult to manage.

Tim was instantly recognizable in his signature bright yellow stocking cap and for his gentle, kind-hearted nature. He saw the good in everyone he met, approaching life and people with unwavering positivity and warmth.

Those left to cherish his memory include his devoted wife, Sara Roland; his children, Stephanie Dye (Geoff), Travis Roland (Kelsey), and Douglas Roland; stepchildren Brent Chambers (Amerist), Torrance Chambers (Nikki), and Jacob Chambers; 14 grandchildren/step grandchildren and a wide circle of loving family and friends.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, David and Oleta Roland; his older brother, Douglas Lee Roland who died at roughly three months old; and his sister-in-law, Carlene Roland.

A celebration of Tim’s life will be held at a later date in Mitchellville, Iowa. Private Inurnment will be at a later date at Franklin Township Cemetery in Santiago, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Tim.

Print