Leila Beers

Leila Kathleen Burggraff (Croll) Beers was born June 13, 1921, in Newton, IA, to Cornelius and Mary Edith (Cummings) Burggraaf. She died October 12, 2013, at Scottish Rite Park in Des Moines.

When Leila was 5, her mother contracted tuberculosis. Leila moved to Pella to be raised by her Uncle Art and Aunt Nell Cummings. She graduated from Pella High in 1939, and went to work as a secretary at a local law firm. She met Leland Croll while working in Pella and romance ensued. They were married July 31, 1941, and two sons were born, Richard and Bruce. The family moved to Des Moines and Leila assumed the title of stay-at-home mom.

The family home became a gathering place for neighborhood children and some type of activity was always in process. When Bruce reached 4th grade, Leila decided it was time to go back to work. She held various secretarial positions during her remaining working years including more than 30 years for the Des Moines Schools.

Leila was an avid gardener and her talents showed in her flower gardens and houseplants. She was very creative and had a knack for traditional decorating in her homes. Her surroundings reflected her appreciation for art and antiques.

She was a member of Fort Des Moines United Methodist Church.

In 1969, Leland Croll passed away, and in 1971, Leila married Arthur D. Beers. Her second marriage was short-lived, Arthur died in 1976. Leila lived the remainder of her life single and she remained close to her immediate family, her neighbors, and dear friends in Pella and Des Moines.

Leila is survived by two sons and their families, Richard (Jane) Croll of Lake View and Bruce (Karla) Croll of Urbandale; three grandsons; and five great-grandchildren, David (Amy) Croll, Katelyn and Ben of Urbandale, Michael (Abby) Croll, Molly of Johnston, and Doug (Angie) Croll, Lauren, and Zachary of Urbandale.

A private family graveside service will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2013, at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Des Moines.

Memorial contributions may be made to Scottish Rite Park or Animal Rescue League of Iowa.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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