Lois Darlene Stecker

Lois Darlene Stecker, 79, passed away on April 20, 2026 in Ankeny. She was born on August 8, 1946 to Howard and Ruthe Flanagan in Wadena, MN.

Lois was raised in Minnesota before relocating to Iowa in 1973. Prior to her move, she worked as a surgical nurse, dedicating several years to patient care. After settling in Ankeny, she pursued her entrepreneurial spirit by opening and operating Lundgren’s Plant Shop. Following the shop’s closure, Lois transitioned into a successful career in real estate. Lois married Alvin Stecker on May 4th, 1997, and continued her career until her retirement in 2021.

Lois was a devoted member of Plymouth Church in Des Moines. She faced a six-year battle with cancer with faith, strength and resilience.

Lois is survived by her husband, Alvin; children, Denise Lundgren, Nathan Lundgren and Melissa (Matt) Dowd; sister-in-law, Marian Flanagan; grandchildren, Aidan Patterson, Brody Patterson, Allison (Cole) Wasenberg, Megan Dowd and Dylan Dowd, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Sharon Davis and Dennis Flanagan.

Family will greet guests on Friday, May 1, 2026 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Gardens, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., at Plymouth Church, 4126 Ingersoll Ave., Des Moines, Iowa.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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