Ivo Jordan Phelps Jr., 88 of Little Rock passed away July 15, 2024. Born August 30, 1935 in Little Rock to the late Ivo B. and Virginia (Jordan) Phelps, Ivo was welcomed into Heaven in addition to his parents, by his youngest sister, Gay Certain. Ivo grew up in Little Rock and attended Little Rock Senior High School, but eventually was put on a train by his father to Lebanon, TN, because Ivo Sr. felt he was a little “unruly!” Ivo graduated from Castle Heights Military Academy, where he told funny stories about being a cook in the mess hall, and how he was quite the ladies man! He attended the University of Arkansas before leaving to join the US Army reserve and was on active duty during the Cuban missile crisis. Ivo was the 3rd generation of Phelps' to own and operate Phelps Industries, Inc. The Little Rock manufacturer, with an employee base of 50, produces heavy industrial hydraulic unloading equipment. In 1971 Ivo changed the equipment from mechanical to a more efficient hydraulic unloading design. With his innovation, he expanded the company in the 1980s and 90's. Ivo dedicated his work life to his family. His sons, Paul and John, now 4th generation, continuing his legacy, to operate and expand the business. Another passion included Ivo’s christian faith and helping those less fortunate. He regularly attended church to share in fellowship and community with others and taught Sunday school. Ivo supported or donated steel to local churches for construction. For many years, Ivo supported an organization called New Life Ministries, dedicated to helping men out of prison reintegrate into society and those struggling with alcohol. Ivo also mentored young men associated with various churches he attended.Ivo was a motorcycle enthusiast, riding with his sons, he competed in Turkey Run competitions at Camp Robinson in the 70s.and he even won a 1st place trophy in his mid 40s His favorite restaurants were breakfast at Waffle House with buddies and HB’s Barbecue. He enjoyed pheasant hunting in Kansas and snow skiing with his sons and bush hogging on his tractor. His four granddaughter's would share that he never forgot to write cards for any holidays, would tell them stories about his life travels, and would always tear up when hugging them hello and goodbye. Those left to cherish the memories of Ivo include his sons, Eric, John (Lori), and Paul (Jennifer) Phelps; grandchildren, Annabel Phelps, Erica Phelps, Jessica Phelps, and Maddy (Austin) McFarlin; siblings, Sue (“Flip”) Bushey and Lin Richardson; and extended family and friends.
Memorial services will be 12:00 p.m., Monday, July 22, 2024 at New Life Church ( 23501 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock, AR 72223).
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