Andrew Howe Marion, IA Obituary and Death – The Cedar Valley region of Iowa is grappling with the tragic loss of a beloved figure, Andrew Howe, who passed away after suffering a fatal fall while staying at an Airbnb in Ankeny. At the age of 38, Howe was not just a local business owner, but a cherished member of the Waterloo community, known for his generosity, hard work, and vibrant personality.
Howe, along with his partner and wife, Alison Blake, co-owned Doughy Joey’s Peetza Joynt, a well-known and popular pizza restaurant in Waterloo. The restaurant became a staple in the area, famous not only for its delicious food but also for the warmth and kindness that Howe and Alison extended to their customers and employees. The pair, both passionate about the restaurant industry, worked side by side to build and sustain a beloved establishment that brought people together. In addition to their professional partnership, they were parents to a young son, Lane, further highlighting the tight-knit nature of their personal and professional lives.
The tragic accident occurred early on a Monday morning. While at the Airbnb in Ankeny, Howe fell down a staircase, causing a severe head injury. A friend who was with the couple discovered him and immediately alerted Alison, who called 911 for help. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, rushing Howe to the hospital, where doctors performed emergency surgery to treat a traumatic brain injury. Due to the severity of the injury, surgeons were forced to remove a portion of Howe’s skull to relieve pressure from brain swelling. Howe was placed in a medically induced coma in order to give his brain the best chance at recovery.
As of Tuesday evening, Howe remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), with doctors monitoring his condition closely through regular CT and MRI scans. Family members, particularly Alison and her sister Megan Tjernagel, have expressed hope, though the situation remains uncertain. Megan described the family’s emotional toll, stating that “everything is still up in the air,” but emphasized that Alison has not left Andrew’s side since the accident.
The accident has rocked the close-knit Cedar Valley community, where Andrew was known for his selflessness and dedication. Megan Tjernagel described Andrew as “the most giving and trustworthy guy,” noting that he would go out of his way to help others, often without expecting anything in return. His hard work ethic was also a hallmark of his career; before taking ownership of Doughy Joey’s in Waterloo, Andrew managed the Cedar Falls location and worked at the Waterloo Brown Bottle restaurant, where he and Alison first met.
In response to the crisis, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to assist the Howe family with mounting medical and living expenses. The initial fundraising goal of $10,000 was quickly surpassed, with over $13,000 raised by Tuesday evening through the generosity of 159 donors. The community’s swift support reflects the deep affection and respect that Andrew earned during his life.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Andrew’s condition, there are plans to keep Doughy Joey’s operational, with the hope that the community’s support will enable the business to remain stable during this difficult time. Family members have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, and they continue to ask for prayers and positive thoughts for Andrew’s recovery.
Megan Tjernagel thanked the community on behalf of the family: “We just ask that everyone keeps Andrew in their thoughts and prayers. We appreciate all of the support. It helps so much.” The Howe family, along with the community of Waterloo, continues to remain hopeful and united, reflecting the resilience and compassion that has defined Andrew Howe’s life.
For those who wish to support the Howe family further, donations can be made by searching “Doughy Joey’s” on GoFundMe.com.
