Dorothy Hoversten

Dorothy Marie Hanson Hoversten, 96, of Bode and Algona, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Home in Algona, surrounded by the love of her family.
Dorothy was born on April 26, 1929, and grew up with strong values of faith, family, and community that guided her throughout her life. On June 1, 1952, she was united in marriage to Les Hoversten, with whom she shared many years of love and partnership until his passing in 2015.
A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Dorothy found her greatest joy in her family. She is survived by her children: Richard and Paula Hoversten of Phoenix, Arizona; Jane and Kent Westphal of LeMars, Iowa; Joan and John Kern of Algona, Iowa; and Jill Hoversten Grindberg of Fort Dodge, Iowa. She was a proud grandmother to 13 grandchildren-John, Erica, Paul, Scott, Brad, Tyler, Chris, Ben, Emily, Christian, Karine, Kjerstin, and Karianna-and a cherished great-grandmother to 28 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense happiness.
Dorothy dedicated 33 years as an elementary school teacher, touching countless young lives and earning deep respect within the community. Teaching was more than a career for her-it was a calling, and many former students fondly remembered her kindness, patience, and steady encouragement.
Known for her loving heart and generous spirit, Dorothy was a wonderful baker, cook, and gardener. Her kitchen was a place of warmth, good food, and conversation, and her garden reflected the care she gave to everything she loved. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, gentle humor, and unwavering devotion to family and faith.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Bode, Iowa, beginning at 9:30 a.m., prior to the service. The funeral service will follow at 10:30 a.m., officiated by Pastor Joyce Schmidt. Burial will take place at St. Olaf Lutheran Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to gather for a meal at the church following the burial. Services have been entrusted to Lentz Funeral Home of Algona. Online condolences may be left at www.lentzfuneralhome.com.
Memorials are welcome and will be contributed at the discretion of the family.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Good Samaritan Nursing Home and staff for their compassionate care, to Hospice of the Heartland for their comfort and support, and for the pastoral care of Pastor Joyce Schmidt, which was a great comfort to Dorothy and her family.
Dorothy's life was a blessing to many, and her legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.