Hattie Durbin

Hattie Marie Durbin, 26, of Johnston, Iowa, and formerly of Grinnell, passed away at her home on Monday, May 12, 2025.
Born on February 27, 1999, in Des Moines, Iowa, Hattie was the daughter of Kevin and Heidi (Ohlen) Durbin. She grew up in Grinnell and graduated with the Grinnell High School Class of 2019.
Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at a young age, Hattie faced life's challenges with remarkable strength, humor, and perseverance. She had a sharp mind and a strong will, often expressing herself with a dry wit and an incredible grasp of sarcasm. She valued routine and possessed an internal clock that rarely missed a beat.
Hattie's stubborn streak, well-known to those who loved her, served her incredibly well throughout her life. Whether it was refusing to be underestimated or standing her ground with quiet determination, her willfulness was one of her greatest strengths - and, at times, a source of loving amusement for family and friends. She lived life on her own terms, and that determination inspired everyone around her.
She found great joy in being outdoors, particularly in swimming, where she felt the most free. She loved the simple pleasures: ice cream, Oreo cookie fluff, cartoons, Hallmark Christmas movies, and more recently, playing in a softball league. Her greatest joy, however, was being surrounded by people she loved - especially when cheering on her brother Hayes at his events.
Time spent at the farm with her dad was among Hattie's happiest moments. Whether it was riding along in the ranger or just enjoying the peace of the countryside, it was where she felt most grounded and connected.
As she grew into independence, Hattie built meaningful and lasting friendships with Jon, Nathan, and Carson - three people she adored and who quickly came to know their role in her life: loyal companions who never forgot she was the princess in charge. And she made sure they never did.
Hattie also shared a deep, lifelong bond with her grandmother Martha, whose love and presence brought her comfort and strength. Another profound friendship in her life was with Tori, a devoted caretaker and dear friend. The two shared countless hours listening to music together. Their bond was filled with laughter, even (and especially) when Hattie would stretch a single yawn into a full-length performance - a little mischief that drove Tori just a little crazy, and brought them both joy. Equally important, was her caretaker for the first ten years of her life, Donna Whannel.
Hattie is survived by her mother, Heidi Ohlen Durbin; her father, Kevin Durbin; her brother, Hayes (Amy) Durbin; her grandmother, Doris Kenney; step-grandmother, Jean Ohlen; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Orville Durbin, Martha Pope, and Robert Ohlen; and step-grandfathers, Robert Pope, and Lynn Harriman.
Hattie lived a life defined not by limitations, but by joy, determination, and the strength of her relationships. Her laughter, resilience, and love left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She was truly one of a kind - and she will be missed beyond measure.