Mary Fickel

Mary Louise Fickel was born on September 21, 1937, to Detlef and Loena (Andrew) Bargenquast in rural Montgomery County near Essex, Iowa. Mary’s life was marked by an unwavering love for family and a nurturing spirit that touched all who knew her. She graduated from Irwin Kirkman Schools in 1955 and began her career as a telephone operator, later joining Council Bluffs Savings Bank.

On April 30, 1960, Mary married Ronald Fickel in Malvern, Iowa, and together they welcomed four beloved children. A dedicated homemaker, Mary filled her home with warmth and nourishment, always ensuring her family’s needs were met. Her gentle encouragement inspired her children to excel in school and in their 4-H projects, creating a foundation of love and resilience that continues to uplift them.

Mary’s servant heart extended beyond her own family. She cared for young children from a local family for several years and later provided companionship and support as a private caregiver for an elderly local resident in their home. In 1996, Mary moved to Des Moines, where she earned her certifications as a Nursing Assistant and Medication Assistant, caring for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities with the same compassion she showed her family.

Mary had a gift for cooking and baking, bringing joy to her family with her culinary creations, especially during the holidays. Her beautiful embroidery was a testament to her creativity and attention to detail. Above all, Mary treasured her time with her children and grandchildren, celebrating milestones and creating cherished memories that will live on in their hearts.

Mary passed away on October 13, 2024, at the age of 87. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Raymond and Jimmy Bargenquast; and sister, Joyce Voight. She is survived by her four children: Teri L. Bruster of Lennox, South Dakota; Debra J. (Monte) Weiland of Des Moines; Ronald D. (Karen) Fickel of Hartland, Wisconsin; and Gwendolyn “Wendy” K. Fickel of Des Moines. She also leaves behind ten grandchildren—Elizabeth Dawes (Ken Clancy), Meredith Bruster (Samuel Makikalli), Benjamin Bruster, Jacob Dawes, Abigail Fickel (Cullen Finnerty), Andrew Fickel, Daniel Fickel, Kassandra Colwill, Elliana Fickel, and Cierra Fickel—as well as her sister, Beverly Olson, and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Ohde Funeral Home in Manning. Interment will follow at Nishnabotna Cemetery near Manilla. Memorials may be directed to the family.