A former mayor of the City of Pella has died.

Darrell Dobernecker passed away at the age of 81 Monday. Dobernecker served as Pella’s mayor from January 2004 to December 2011. Current Mayor Jim Mueller served as a city councilmember during Dobernecker’s two terms, and tells KRLS News his presence will be missed in the community.

“I would just like to recognize and thank Mayor Dobernecker for his service to the community,” he said. “I served eight years with him on city council and I truly appreciated his candor and no-nonsense approach to some very difficult issues we dealt with at the time.”

“I extend my condolences to his family, and offer my prayers of sympathy.”

Dobernecker was also a band director and school bus driver in the Pella Community School District. He received his Bachelor’s Degree from Simpson College and Master’s Degree from Drake University.

Funeral services will be held on Friday at 10:00 AM at First Baptist Church. Visitation is Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m. at Garden Chapel Funeral Home.