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The Life of LEONA FRANCES STOLER

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.

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