Will Moon, a longtime benefactor of the University of Iowa’s football program, died on July 16 at the age of 64. His passing was confirmed by family and local media, and the news quickly resonated across the Hawkeye community.
Moon’s influence stretched far beyond his role as owner of the Iowa 80 World’s Largest Truck Stop on Interstate 80. In 2006 he endowed the Moon Family Head Football Coach position, and together with his wife Renee Breckenridge Moon he created the Will and Renee Moon Excellence Fund, a flexible source of unrestricted support for athletics initiatives.
A Legacy of Generosity
Born into the family business, Moon spent his teenage summers working at the truck stop after his father, Bill Moon, acquired the property in 1964. He later pursued an accounting degree at the University of Iowa, where he met Renee. Their first date took place at The Airliner in downtown Iowa City, where they watched the Hawkeyes defeat Penn State, a moment that marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership both personally and philanthropically.
Their financial support also helped launch the Kinnick Edge Campaign, a multi‑year effort to revitalise the north end zone of Kinnick Stadium. The project has transformed the stadium’s appearance and enhanced the fan experience, reflecting the Moons’ commitment to improving the infrastructure of Hawkeye athletics.
Current Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz expressed deep sadness at Moon’s passing, recalling the donor’s unwavering generosity and the lasting impact of his contributions on the program’s stability and growth.
Iowa athletics director Beth Goetz remembered Moon as one of the kindest and most genuine people she had ever known, noting that his legacy will endure in the university’s sports community and among the many student‑athletes who benefitted from his gifts.
Visitation for Moon will be held on Monday, July 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Runge Mortuary in Davenport. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, July 21, at 10 a.m. at Calvary Church of Walcott, followed by burial at Walcott Cemetery.