Mary Elaine Harringa

Mary Elaine (Settle) Harringa entered the presence of her Lord on February 28, 2026. She was raised in Nevada, Iowa, and graduated from Nevada High School in 1972. She continued her education at Boone Junior College and later at Iowa State University, where she studied elementary education. During her years attending Nevada Baptist Church, she met the love of her life, Merlyn Harringa, who was serving as a song leader from Faith Baptist Bible College. They were married on August 1, 1975, in Nevada, Iowa. Together, they welcomed two daughters, Elizabeth and Sara, and made their home in Boone, Iowa, where they raised their family.

Mary devoted much of her life to serving others in partnership with her husband. She was deeply involved in 4 H as a group leader and as Rabbit and Poultry Co-Superintendent. She was active in both the Boone and Ames Nazarene Churches, sharing her musical gifts on the organ and piano and preparing weekly church bulletins. Professionally, she served as a special education instructor in the Boone and Madrid School Districts. Outside of work, Mary enjoyed many activities with her husband, including sewing, crafting, camping, visiting national parks while enjoying God's beautiful scenery and wildlife, motorcycle riding, visiting family, spending time with her grandchildren, gospel outreach, and attending family reunions. She also cherished her volunteer work with her uncle's missionary organization, Discovery Service Projects, serving in Mexico and Central America.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her husband of fifty years, Merlyn; her daughters Elizabeth (Eric) Stinaff and Sara (Matt) Hackbart; and her five grandchildren-Seraphine, Sebastian, Quintus, Dorian, and Kate-along with many dear extended family members. She was preceded in death by her father, Lester Settle; her mother, Eunice (Carlson) (Settle) Scott; and other beloved family members.

A celebration of Mary's life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced by the family.

The family would like to thank Boone County Hospital and Hospice Services for their excellent care and compassion.

Schroeder-Stark-Welin Funeral Home, 515-432-4550.