Conrad was born June 11, 1944, to Tag and Irene Clement and grew up on the family farm in rural Newton, Iowa. Conrad died May 6, 2025, at his home in Decorah, Iowa.
Conrad was a 1962 graduate of Newton High School. In 1964, he was united in marriage to Patsy Fisher; they were later divorced. Ever the entrepreneur, he had his first business at 16, a tire repair shop. After graduation, he worked at Newton Implement as a mechanic. In 1969, Conrad relocated his family to Grand Meadow, Minn., and with business partners operated Minnesota Implement and Midwest Auction, while also farming on the side. In 1988, he had the opportunity to purchase Featherlite Trailers with family members, and this led to a 20-year career in manufacturing. This company also included Featherlite Luxury Coaches. In 1999, as president and CEO of Featherlite Inc., Conrad was named Entrepreneur of the Year in manufacturing by Ernst and Young LLP. Con and other family members were also involved in the development of and later ownership of the Iowa Speedway.
Survivors are sons Tracy and Eric (Nicole O’Gara), granddaughter Andrea Siewert and her husband Justin and their sons Gavin and Trent, grandsons Derek (Kara Denner) and Neil (Jessica Gartner); granddaughter Emma, and the mother of his children, Patsy Clement. Also surviving are brothers Larry, Bruce, Dave and Brad; and a sister, Carmen Henderson.
Conrad was predeceased by his parents and a brother, Stan.
There will be a private family burial on a date to be determined. He will be laid to rest at the Sugar Grove cemetery in rural Newton in a plot overlooking his boyhood home.
The family wants to thank all who have reached out with words of comfort and condolence, they are so appreciated. In lieu of flowers, please donate to a dementia charity of your choosing.
The family is assisted by Helms Funeral Home, Decorah, Iowa.