Angelina Stefanovic

Angelina Stefanovic, 72, died Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at her home in Des Moines.
A memorial service will be held 11:00 am Saturday, September 13th at New Life Lutheran Church in Norwalk where the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.
Angelina was born on June 19, 1953, at Mercy Hospital in Oelwein, Iowa to parents Djura and Karolina Stefanovic. She lived in Oelwein for most of her life, moved to Hazleton Iowa with her parents and eventually moved to Clear Lake, Iowa where she lived at Opportunity Village for several years. From there she moved to Des Moines, Iowa and resided at Mosaic. Angelina moved to a condo operated by Link Associates prior to her death.
She attended school in Hazleton, Iowa and continued her education at various facilities that assist people with disabilities.
Angelina's love for her family was unconditional and her presence was a blessing that strengthened the bond between us. Her sense of humor and laugh was unique, and every minute she spent in our lives reinforced how vital it is to be kind to others, giving thanks for all things, (Ephesians 5:20; 1, Thessalonians 5:18), having compassion for those less fortunate, and having faith in one's abilities.
She was a smart inquisitive and feisty little girl. Angelina was afflicted with grand mal seizures at age 3 years old that affected her thinking and functioning abilities. She was able to live a happy and fulfilled life. We appreciate her diligence and ability to overcome many of life's barriers, her uniqueness, the gift she has given us to recognize the importance of showing gratitude, finding happiness in simplicity, embracing your own unique qualities and being a genuine and kind person.
Angelina enjoyed drawing, coloring, crafts, swimming, reading, dancing, and cherished occasions when she had the opportunity to spend time with family members. She loved watching movies, Elvis, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and collected various statues of Jesus and Mary. She grew up on acreage, had several pets and loved animals. She was a member of the Lutheran Church and had a passion and desire to worship God as a Christian.
Part of Angelina's legacy and purpose in life was teaching us the valuable lessons that people with disabilities deserve to be treated with dignity and lead fulfilling lives. Each family member will forever be voices of advocacy for those who struggle with disabilities.
Survivors include her siblings: Ingeborg Brezina of Omaha, Nebraska, Krsmanija (Eugene) Craig of Norwalk, Iowa, Peladija (Hank) Woodson-Diers of Hazleton, Iowa, Sonija (Richard) Wessels of Williamsburg Iowa; and numerous nephews and nieces and in-laws. Angelina was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Dobrina Folsom of Oelwein, Iowa, Monika Roepke of Hazleton, Iowa; brothers- in-law: John George Woodson of Oelwein, Iowa, and Leonard Brezina of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and a nephew, Les Folsom of Oelwein, Iowa.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Opportunity Village in Clear Lake, Iowa, Mosaic in Des Moines, Iowa. We express a deep appreciation for the kindness and support and care shown to Angelina by Link and their caregivers and Hospice in Des Moines. In particular, Angie, Cathy, Abraham, Joyce, Cassidy and Belma.
May Angelina rest in peace, knowing she was a loved and cherished daughter, sister, sister-in-law and aunt. Her spirit will remain woven into the fabric of our family, a reminder of the love that transcends time and separation. We will always hear her laugh and smile.
Memorial contributions may be made to Link Associates 1459 29th Street, West Des Moines, Iowa 50266.
Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.
ARRANGEMENTS BY ILES NORWALK CHAPEL
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