Rhoda Smith Stowe

Rhoda Smith Stowe was born July 11, 1919 to Benjamin and Lula Smith in Bismarck, North Dakota. She passed away Friday, July 22, 2016 at 3801 Grand Avenue in Des Moines where she had lived for many years. She was surrounded by her family and the 3801 Grand staff who had loved and cared for her.

She and her parents, Ben and Lula Smith, lived in a log cabin on a ranch outside of Hensler, North Dakota. She had eight siblings, two of which died in childhood. Rhoda was preceded in death by her siblings, Malcom Smith, Thomas Smith, Desa (Ruth) Smith Coleman, Ben Smith, and Mary J. Smith. She is survived by siblings, Joan Smith Christensen, Nellie Smith Harris, and Norman Smith.

Rhoda graduated from nursing school in Bismarck, North Dakota and then married Gaylord L. Stowe (deceased). She enlisted in the U. S. Army and was stationed in the New Caladonia Island at the Pacific Theater Army Hospital base during World War II. She said it was the best and worst times of her life. Following the war, she and Gaylord had three children, Bob Stowe (deceased), Bill Stowe, and Dorothy Stowe Hanneman. Rhoda has three grandchildren, Shane Hanneman, Renee Stowe Albough, and Liam Stowe.

Rhoda was a school nurse at the Nevada School District for over 30 years until she retired. She lived a long and interesting life spent helping others. She will be remembered for her fun, spunky, and giving nature. She loved her family, the birds and squirrels, and a good game of cards.

A special thanks to the wonderful hospice workers and the staff at 3801 Grand who were her friends and caregivers.

A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, July 25, 2016 at White Oak Cemetery near Elkhart.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Trees Des Moines or Gentiva Hospice in the name of Rhoda Stowe.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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