Leona Stoler
June 20, 2017
Leona “Sparkie” Stoler passed away at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines on June 20, 2017. She was born in Chariton, Iowa, on July 31, 1928, to Lee and Ola Sparks.
Prior to becoming a homemaker, Leona worked for Ford and the Ankeny School District. She was a devoted member of Woodland Hills Church of Christ, Boline-Manfredi VFW Post 9662, Order of the Eastern Star, Fairs & Squares Dance Club where she served as President from 1995-1996 and 2005-2006, and for many years, she was a member of the Winnebago Camping Club.
Leona was the best hugger and loved making others laugh, especially when she dressed up like a clown or participated in her kitchen band. She also enjoyed crocheting afghans, dressing dolls, and spending time with all her family.
Leona is survived by her husband, Hamilton Murrell “Curly” Stoler, Jr.; daughter-in-law, Lea Stoler; grandchildren, Cody Stoler and Heather Stoler (Tyler Burns); great-grandson, Braxton Burns; brother, David Sparks; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Pat Sparks; sisters, Jackie Smith and Colleen Walker; sister and brother-in-law, Dixie and Stan Hillebo; as well as many nieces, nephews, and close friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Duke Stoler; brother, Thomas Sparks; sister and brother-in-law, Florine and Paul Pirtle; sister-in-law, Eleanor Sparks; and brothers-in law, Norman Smith and Jim Walker.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 28, 2017, at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Avenue in Des Moines with burial to follow at Highland Memory Gardens Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the funeral home Tuesday evening from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
In loving memory of Leona, memorial contributions may be directed to Taylor House Hospice, 3401 E. Douglas Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50317.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Juli Rinehart
06/27/2017
Here's what I do know about Leona. She would speak truth to you while walking like Jesus, all the while sharing the joy in her heart. She could see the hurt in you, think about what might help you through it, how to get you there, and then tell you directly and not gossip to others about it. When she told you, it was to the point and genuine and spoken with such a loving, gentle spirit that you could not help but love her for telling you. No one who met Leona will forget the way she made them feel. I believe that kind of legacy lives on in those who were touched by her. What a lady!
Joe Tonya Battin
06/25/2017
We are sorry for your loss
May your memories help through your grief and sadness , help you during this time.
God Bless
Cheryl Miller
06/22/2017
So sorry for your loss. I so fondly remember Leona and how she always called me "Hun" (as she did almost everyone). She indeed was a wonderful lady! I wonder how long it will take for her to have the Lord laughing?
Linnea
06/21/2017
I am so very sorry to hear about Aunt Leona's passing. She was indeed, the best hugger, and one of the kindest people I've ever known. She never knew a stranger. I will always remember her amazing laugh.... Rest peacefully, Leona.