Theodore J. “Ted” Fenton, 77, of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Ted was a loving husband, father, Papa, teacher, coach, and friend who found his greatest happiness in the people he loved and the relationships he made along the way.

Ted was born on January 5, 1949, in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, to Oscar Fredrick “Fred” Fenton and Jeanne Enid Wright. He graduated from Burlington High School and went on to attend the University of Iowa.

Ted dedicated 38 years to teaching and coaching, teaching at Oak Street Middle School in Burlington, Iowa, and coaching at Oak Street Middle School, Burlington High School, and West Burlington Notre Dame. He believed education went beyond facts and tests, encouraging students to think for themselves, ask questions, and discover their potential. Whether in the classroom or on the playing field, Ted took great pride in watching young people grow and succeed. Long after his years of teaching and coaching, former students and athletes still knew him as “Coach.”

On March 20, 2009, Ted married the love of his life, Julie Fenton. He was absolutely head over heels for Julie, and together they built a beautiful family. Family was always at the heart of Ted’s life. Being Papa to Alice, Andy, and Alora was one of his greatest joys. He absolutely adored them and treasured every moment together, whether they were off on an adventure or simply enjoying each other’s company.

Ted never met a stranger. He genuinely enjoyed talking with people and made a point of being able to carry on a conversation with just about anyone. He took an interest in others and enjoyed learning about different things, always finding ways to connect with the people around him. He had a way of making people feel valued, whether they were longtime friends or someone he had just met.

Ted also loved traveling, especially to the mountains, and enjoyed camping and spending time outdoors. He found happiness in working outside, woodworking, attending Bible study at Central Christian Church, and cheering on his Iowa Hawkeyes.

More than anything, Ted loved his family. He was proud of the people he loved, celebrated their accomplishments, and found joy in being part of their lives.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Fenton; his children, Erik Fenton (Milissa Rea), Susan Hite, Anna (Josh) Dorsey, and Zach (Michaela) Hull; his grandchildren, Alice Dorsey, Andy Dorsey, Alora Dorsey, and Brynne Hite; and his sisters-in-law, Linda Fenton and Karen Fenton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar Fredrick “Fred” Fenton and Jeanne Enid Wright; and his brothers, Stuart Fenton and Dennis Fenton.

Funeral Services

A funeral service celebrating Ted’s life will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Central Christian Church, 3475 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa 50702. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m., one hour prior to the service.

Memorial Donations

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Ted’s memory are invited to make a memorial donation to Central Christian Church, a place that held special meaning to him. Memorial gifts will help support the church and its continued work in the community, honoring Ted’s faith, his love of fellowship, and his gift for bringing people together.

Donations may be made online at https://www.centralwaterloo.org/donate or by cash or check to Central Christian Church.