Cynthia Louise "Cindy" Kriegel

Cynthia "Cindy" Louise Kriegel, 73, of Grinnell, Iowa, passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026. She was born on October 22, 1952, in Grinnell, the daughter of Walter Henry and Audrey Mae (Austin) Oltrogge. Cindy was raised on a rural farm east of Grinnell, where she learned the value of hard work, family, and faith. Principles that guided her throughout her life.

On March 25, 1972, Cindy was united in marriage to Michael Kriegel at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Grinnell. They shared 52 years of love, partnership, and family life before Michael's passing on March 20, 2025. Together, they raised two children, Staci Shepard and Scott Kriegel, who were the pride and joy of Cindy's life.

A devoted homemaker, Cindy, dedicated herself to caring for her family. She was also a talented seamstress and worked part-time at Jerry's Cleaners, where she skillfully hemmed, mended, and tailored garments for countless customers over the years. Her hands were rarely still; she loved sewing, crafting, diamond painting, riding her Harley trike, embracing every opportunity for adventure and creativity.

Cindy cherished the simple joys that filled her days, especially the time she spent with her beloved grandchildren. She delighted in watching hummingbirds and the garden art outside her window, small moments of beauty that brightened her life. Although their time together was brief, she also dearly adored her new kitten, Harlie.

A woman grounded deeply in her faith, Cindy loved God and lived her life as a quiet but steadfast example of kindness, generosity, and strength. She was the heart of her family. A trusted source of advice, a comforting presence, and a pillar of unwavering support for all who loved her.

Cindy's legacy is one of love, resilience, and devotion, and her memory will be treasured always.

She is survived by her son, Scott (Tabitha) Kriegel, her grandchildren, Abigail Kriegel, Brady (Mazi) Moore, Blaine Kriegel, and Alyssa (Jakob) Kriegel.

She is preceded by her husband, Michael, daughter, Staci Shepard, parents, Walter and Audrey Oltrogge, and in-laws, Robert and Billie Kriegel.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell, IA. A graveside service will be held following the service at Hazelwood cemetery. A luncheon will be held following the graveside service in the Parish Hall at St. Mary Catholic Church in Grinnell, IA.

A visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at Smith Funeral Home in Grinnell, IA.

Memorials may be made payable to Scott Kriegel, mailed in c/o Smith Funeral Home, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112.