Nadine Reed Woods
February 02, 2019
Nadine Woods, 94, passed away suddenly, but peacefully on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at Kavanagh House in Des Moines. She had lived independently in her own home until that morning. Nadine was born January 6, 1925, in Corvuso, MN, to Roland and Frieda Reed. She grew up in Red Rock, IA, attending Red Rock rural school and graduating from Monroe High School. Nadine earned a teaching certificate, and went on to teach in a one-room school in the Red Rock area in the early 1940s. She worked as a telephone operator during WWII, and as an Accounting Technician for the State of Iowa’s Surplus Property Dept. She was an active member of First Baptist Church, Drake Dames, Chapter MA PEO, and the Des Moines Garden Club. As a volunteer, she spent many hours at the Alzheimer’s Association, Hospice of Central Iowa, First Baptist Church and wherever she felt she was needed. Nadine enjoyed gardening and especially her roses. She loved traveling throughout the world with Elderhostel (Road Scholar) and as the wife of a Fulbright Scholar. She was comforted by reading great books, and being surrounded by her loving pets. Spending time with her family and special “grandchildren” brought her joy and laughter. After retirement, her happiest times were living with Joe on their Runnels acreage. Up to the end, she was very aware of events happening around the world and could hold her own in discussions!
Left to cherish her generous spirit are her daughter Miriam Woods, Urbandale, son John Woods, Des Moines, nieces and nephews, cousins, the extended Heuermann family, and many friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, Professor Joe Woods, her parents, two sisters Lois McCully and Dorothy Reed, two brothers Gene Reed and Ernie Reed and many dear friends, who she considered part of her family.
A memorial service followed by a lunch will be held at First Baptist Church, 8250 NW 52nd Ave, Johnston, IA, 50131, on Saturday, March 23rd at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Glendale Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to her favorite causes: Iowa Public Television, Animal Rescue League of Iowa, or a charity that’s dear to your heart. Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Helen Boertje
02/11/2019
I did not know Nadine but I wrote the book, When One Room Fit All, the Country Schools of Marion County Iowa. The obituary mentions her teaching in a school near Red Rock. She taught at the East Amsterdam School which is now located at198th Place and maintained as a museum by the Pella Historical Society . She taught in the year 46-47. My mother, Reda Martin, was teaching at the Red Rock School the year Nadine was born. And I began my teaching career in 1954 in the 7th grade at Monroe. Our families never met but the generations have walked along the same path.
Le Thomas
02/10/2019
Nadine was probably the dearest woman I have met. In garden club she was always helpful and nurturing, always a lovely friend.
Judy (Goering) Lenger
02/09/2019
Cousins Miriam & John, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Aunt Nadine. Her & Uncle Joe were such a big part of my childhood and I have so many happy memories of them at Grandpa & Grandma's house(Clarence & Ruth Slocum). Just remember it's not good-bye, It's see ya later! Love & many Prayers for both of you.
jennifer rockwell
02/08/2019
Miriam and John------ Max, I and Jani have marked the date of your mom's memorial service. We plan to be there.
Larry and Betty Martindale
02/08/2019
Dear Miriam, John, and Family,
It seems too frequently, a close friend or loved one passes away. As you know, Betty and I loved both your mom and dad, and you and your brother, very much. We go way back together to Forest Avenue Baptist Church, and your mom and dad, were always so kind and supportive of me, from a young age, and of Betty and our family even into adulthood. It was your mother who brought me a can of peanuts at your fathers funeral, as she knew, I loved peanuts. Every time our paths crossed, Nadine was always so positive and upbeat and acted like we were members of her immediate family. Every time I see you Miriam at Aspen, I am reminded of your excellence as a teacher at Hoover, and of you being such an outstanding and loving daughter. There is no doubt in our mind that Nadine and Joe are sitting together in heaven and smiling down upon us all. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you in the days that lie ahead.
Julie and Pat messerli
02/07/2019
Miriam, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for your loss of this great woman.