Velma Duckworth

Velma Duckworth, 82, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, September 28, 2022, following a short-term illness.

The family is grateful to have been able to honor her wishes to spend her final days at home in the care of those who loved her.

Velma is now reunited with her first love and husband of 59 years, Rich, who preceded her in death in 2018. She is also reunited with her parents, Boyd and Geneva Pierschbacher, sister Jean Barnes, her brother Floyd Pierschbacher, and her sister by choice, Elizabeth Sears.

She is loved and missed by daughter Deb (Paul Stevens), son Craig (Tracey) Duckworth; 5 Grandchildren-Shawna (James) McFadden, Chad (Betsy) Stevens, Britni (Chris) Delva, Justin (Zoyla Alvarez) Duckworth, and Jordan Duckworth; and 12 great-grandchildren. Brothers-in-law Marvin (Diane) Duckworth and Ed (Carolyn) Duckworth, and many, many nieces and nephews.

After spending her early years of married life raising her family, she joined the Des Moines Public Schools food service division, where she retired after 25 years of service as a Food Service Manager.

Over the years, Rich and Velma made many dear friends who shared their love of square dancing, camping, and wintering in Harlingen, Texas. The family also has special memories of the many happy years spent with the wonderful neighbors on SW 28th Court.

She will be remembered for the fierce way she loved her family and the thoughtful phone calls she made checking up on everyone.

The family will welcome friends to share memories at Wakonda Christian Church. Visitation will be on Saturday, September October 1, 2022, from 1-2 pm, and a Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 2 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to either Mercy Hospice or Wakonda Christian Church.

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