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Tristan Workman was your typical farm kid.

Growing up in rural Keokuk County, he and his sister, Holly, were involved in 4-H, showing sheep and rabbits while learning the responsibilities of caring for pets and livestock.

He had an eye for photography, advancing his photos from the local level to the state fair, and on the farm, Tristan's chores included handling the sheep, helping stuff wool into shearing bags and cleaning the barn.

The son of Don and Kathy Workman from Delta, Tristan enjoyed rock-hounding and weightlifting, and he played noseguard for the Sigourney Savage Cobras during his junior and senior high school years. He learned how to weld after high school and was fastidious with maintenance on vehicles and motorcycles.

"His smile lit up the room," said mom Kathy. "He had a heart for people."

However, Tristan's life took a darker turn after high school. He entered the workforce and left home,...