The University of Iowa Athletics community is mourning the loss of one of its most passionate and dedicated supporters. Will Moon, a Bettendorf businessman, longtime Hawkeye booster, and 1983 University of Iowa graduate, passed away Thursday at the age of 64.
Moon and his wife, Renee, made one of the largest gifts in Iowa Athletics history. Their transformative support established the Moon Family Head Football Coach position, currently held by Kirk Ferentz, created an endowment for Hawkeye football operations, launched the Will and Renee Moon Excellence Fund for athletic initiatives, and helped fund the Kinnick Edge Campaign that revitalized the north end zone of Kinnick Stadium.
Athletics Director Beth Goetz called Moon “one of the kindest and most genuine people you could ever meet,” saying his generosity, loyalty, and the relationships he built helped shape Iowa Athletics and will leave a lasting legacy.
Head Football Coach Kirk Ferentz said he was “very saddened” by Moon’s passing, adding that he truly enjoyed and appreciated the time they spent together. Ferentz said Hawkeye student-athletes will benefit from the Moons’ generosity for years to come and extended his heartfelt condolences to Renee and the entire Moon family.
Beyond his impact on Iowa Athletics, Moon carried on his family’s legacy as an operator of the Iowa 80 Truckstop in Walcott and the CAT Scale Company. Visitation is Monday from 4 until 8 p.m. at Runge Mortuary in Davenport, with funeral services Tuesday morning at Calvary Church in Walcott.
