Holly MatkinFort Madison, IA – Iowa Department of Corrections (DOC) Correctional Officer Zachary Michael Todd died unexpectedly at his home on Sept. 26.
The 28-year-old correctional officer was assigned to the DOC’s Iowa State Penitentiary (ISP) in Fort Madison at the time of his death, according to his obituary.
Correctional Officer Todd previously served as a Des Moines County Communications (DESCOM) 911 operator, and also spent time volunteering with the Lomax Fire Department and Rescue Squad.
He was a member of the Renegade Pigs Motorcycle Club, and enjoyed trapping and hunting in addition to riding his motorcycle, according to his obituary.
Correctional Officer Todd was “always meeting everyone…with the biggest grin and if a person was lucky enough, the biggest hug,” Aurora Churchwell wrote in a memorial tribute. “You have left a huge impression on our little community and we will miss you so much.”
John Martinez said that early in Correctional Officer Todd’s career, he supervised him at ISP.
“Zach was everything a supervisor could ask for,” Martinez wrote in a memorial tribute. “He was a joy to talk to and was liked by everyone he came into contact with.”
Correctional Officer Todd “always showed up with a smile on his face,” he added.
“My sincere condolences go to his family. Always know that Zach’s ISP Family will never forget him,” Martinez wrote.
Correctional Officer Todd leaves behind “the love of his life,” Jordan, as well as his parents, siblings, and his grandparents, according to his obituary.
He is also survived by his niece, nephew, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Correctional Officer Todd was laid to rest on Oct. 2.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Iowa Department of Corrections Correctional Officer Zachary Michael Todd, both blood and blue. Thank you for your service.
Rest easy, hero. We’ll hold the line from here.
