Layton W. Vick

Layton W. Vick, 84, of Spirit Lake, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Lakes Regional Healthcare in Spirit Lake.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Layton was born on December 17, 1941, to Layton Clarence and Edna May Vick. He was one of five children: Beverly, Fredrick, Larry, and William. The family lived above the general store that later became known as Vick’s Corner.

Layton later relocated to Des Moines, Iowa, where he worked in various trades. During this time, he met and married Janet E. Scholes. In the fall of 1964, Layton’s father passed away. The following summer, Layton and Janet, along with their son, returned to Spirit Lake to live above the store and operate the family business.

Layton owned and operated Vick’s Corner until his passing. Over the years, the store became a well-known local landmark, offering a wide variety of goods and attractions. Layton was one of the longest-operating U-Haul dealers in Iowa. The annual Antique Show and Flea Market grew into a major summer event held over Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day weekends.

Many will also remember renting movies and VCRs from Vick’s Corner during the 1980s, the Ice Shack rentals of the late 1960s and 1970s, the CB radio era, and the CPR and First Aid classes Layton taught throughout the years.

Layton is survived by his four children, LaRonna L. Hoffer (Scott), Paul N. Vick (Shelly), Layton C. Vick II (Michelle), and Elizabeth A. Vick-Hermann (Rolf); brothers, Larry Vick, William Vick (Rachel); as well as numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Layton was preceded in death by his son, Robert; father, Layton C.; mother, Edna; brother, Fredrick; sister and brother-in-law, Beverly and Warren Whitmer; sister-in-law, Susan.