Marshalltown Water Works not believed to be source of Legionnaire's disease outbreak
State health officials are investigating an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in Marshalltown that has affected 21 people and claimed the life of a retired Catholic priest. The disease, caused by bacteria that spread through water droplets that are inhaled, has raised concerns in the community about its source.
Zach Maxfield, general manager of Marshalltown Water Works, assured residents that the town’s treated drinking water is not to blame.
“There’s no indication that it’s Marshalltown drinking water that is the cause of this,” Maxfield stated. He emphasized that the plant rigorously tests for all bacterial pathogens.
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services is conducting tests to pinpoint the source of the outbreak. Officials believe the bacteria is more likely to originate in building plumbing systems or appliances such as water heaters, boilers, and air conditioning units. Maxfield explained how contamination could occur: “That water then goes through the distribution system, goes into your house, goes into an apartment, goes into a business, and it reacts with your hot water heater, boilers, air conditioning units, goes through your sprinkler head, and that’s where that bacteria is living. If it turns into a mist or aerates, that’s when Legionnaire’s disease can happen.”
Among the confirmed cases, the only fatality is the Rev. Bernard “Bernie” Grady, a retired Catholic priest.
Affectionately known as Father Bernie, he was ordained in 1968 and dedicated his life to serving parishes in Iowa and South America. He was well-known in Marshalltown for his work at St. Mary and St. Francis parishes, where he played a pivotal role in integrating the Hispanic and Anglo communities.
Peter Grady, Father Bernie’s younger brother, reflected on his legacy.
“As his younger brother, I was always astonished at both his humanity and his level of faith,” Peter said.
He credited Father Bernie with fostering unity in the church.
“He’s the guy that frankly, kind of integrated the Hispanic population and the Anglo population and made this all one parish. Which is a big deal, that’s tough to do," Peter said.
Peter hopes the community remembers Father Bernie not for how he died, but for how he lived.
“We have an entire community, and I think part of that is due to his work,” he said.
Health officials continue to investigate the outbreak and urge residents to remain vigilant about maintaining clean water systems in their homes and businesses. They advise anyone with symptoms to seek medical attention immediately.