Steven Mullen

Steven Michael Mullen of Bridgewater, Iowa, passed away on the Mullen family farm on September 7, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on August 16, 1955, in Corning, Iowa to Charles Edward Mullen and Patricia Ann Mullen (Waters), he grew up near Mt. Etna, Iowa, where he chose to live and farm throughout his life. He graduated from Corning High School in 1974 and earned a degree in Agricultural Business from Iowa State University. He married Marilea Mullen on March 14, 1981, and together they had four children: Kyle, Jason, Greg, and Tessa.

His life was led by three enduring commitments: faith, family, and farming. His Catholic upbringing in the Reno church was foundational to his life and his devotion to his faith guided many of his days. He loved his family deeply and found his greatest joy in time spent with those closest to him. Steve maintained a close bond with his siblings throughout his life. He took great enjoyment in celebrating the milestones of his children’s and grandchildren’s lives. His joy was always evident by his infectious smile and unmistakable laughter at family get-togethers. As a farmer, Steve took pride in his tireless work as a cattleman and steward of the land. He felt a deep sense of freedom and purpose on the farm and he cherished sharing this legacy with his father, brothers, and his children. Steve enjoyed hunting, fishing, and baseball. Some of his children’s best memories are the countless nights spent playing catch and fielding grounders in the backyard. Steve’s favorite time of the year was the opening weekend of deer hunting, when he would welcome everyone into the family home for a weekend filled with laughter and fun. Steve played the leading role in creating those hunting memories.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Kyle Mullen and Brittany Smith, Jason Mullen and Nikia Pope, Greg Mullen, and Tessa Mullen; his grandchildren, Merrick Mullen, Emmett Pope, and Freya Mullen; his siblings, Sharon (Darryl) Hewitt, Russ Mullen, Jeff (Martha Avery) Mullen, Dan (Karen) Mullen, Barbara Lindquist, and Patty Mullen; bother-in-law, Steve Porter; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Patricia Mullen; his sister, Mary Jo Porter; and his brother-in-law, Warren Lindquist.

Services will be at Reno Catholic Church near Cumberland, Iowa, with visitation from 1:00 to 2:00 pm and Mass starting at 2:30 pm. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorial contributions to the family will go to The Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center. Pearson Family Funeral Service and Cremation Center of Corning, IA was in charge of arrangements.