Gwenda Speck

Gwenda Lee Speck
Des Moines

Gwenda Lee (Cater) Speck, 60, was born November 9, 1955 in Des Moines, Iowa to William and Ruth (Stroud) Cater. She graduated from East High School in 1974. In her early career, she worked at Broadlawns Medical Center and taught preschool. Most recently, she worked for GuideOne Insurance for nearly 20 years.

Gwen lit up any room she walked into. She was an incredibly selfless person, always putting others before herself. She had a fabulous sense of humor and could brighten anyone’s mood. Gwen loved the holidays, planning parties, giving gifts, tailgating and cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones. She enjoyed cooking and feeding anyone who came to the house. You would not leave empty-handed after a visit.

Gwen passed peacefully surrounded by the love of her family on Tuesday, February 23, 2016 at Taylor House Hospice.

There will be a memorial visitation from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 3rd at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Come with your best Gwen story to share.

She is survived by her husband of 30 years, Mark; daughters, Shelby (Ken Jenkins) Speck and Addison (Ryan) Bratvold; siblings, Shirley (Richard) Coffman and Earl (Erma) Cater; sister-in-law, Jayne Cater; her lifelong best friend, Linda Nelson and her children, John and Michelle; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends and colleagues. Gwen was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Bill Cater and Candace Huston.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Taylor House Hospice and John Stoddard Cancer Center. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that memorial contributions be directed to them.

Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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