Helen DeJoode

Helen Louise DeJoode, 89, went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 23rd.

Helen Louise DeJoode was born December 9, 1936, in Bussey, Iowa, to Pearl and Rebecca Wales. A proud native of Bussey, Helen graduated from Bussey High School in 1955. She lived a life brimming with compassion, love, and generosity, and was the embodiment of support for all who were fortunate enough to cross her path. Helen was a steadfast beacon of devotion to her family, and her legacy of love will continue to live on in the hearts of all she touched.

Helen shared a beautiful life with her late husband, Melvern “Dutch” DeJoode. They met the summer after Helen graduated from high school and were married shortly thereafter at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa. Together, they made their home in Runnells for 49 years before moving to Des Moines, where they celebrated 50 years of marriage. Helen often said that Runnells was where she truly grew up.

Helen and Dutch raised four children and built a home filled with love, faith, and steady support. Helen devoted many years of service to the State of Iowa, working in Teacher License and Renewal for the Iowa Department of Education. Her career spanned many years and concluded with her well-deserved retirement in 2001.

Helen gave back to her community in countless ways. She volunteered in the gift shop at Mercy Hospital and was a proud member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Runnells Historical Society. She loved reading, reflecting her lifelong appreciation for learning and the simple joys of everyday life.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dutch; her parents; and her sister, Betty Cook of Stillwater, Oklahoma.

She is survived by her children: Laura Hewitt (Mitch), Michael DeJoode (Barb), Carol Elam (Bob), and Nancy Kaldenberg (Dick); eight grandchildren; and nineteen great-grandchildren, who will continue to honor her memory by living the values she so faithfully taught them. The family would like to express their gratitude for the support received from the Unity Hospice Team.

Visitation will be at Peterson Funeral Home in Carlisle from 5 to 7 on Thursday, Feb 26th. Services will be held on Friday, February 27th, at Capitol Hill Christian Church. The family will be greeting guests at 930, and services will start at 1030. Burial will follow at Lowman Cemetery in Runnells, Iowa. A light luncheon will follow at the Runnells Christian Church.

Memorials may be made to the Capitol Hill Christian Church and the Runnells Historical Society.

As we remember and celebrate the remarkable life of Helen DeJoode, we invite you to share your memories, stories, and photos on her memorial page. Each memory shared will stand as a testament to the profound impact she had on those around her. Together, let us celebrate the love, compassion, and generosity that Helen so freely gave throughout her life.