Obituary
Guest Book
MayBelle Doolaard, a beloved resident of the Village of Ackley, Iowa, passed away on November 10, 2025, at the age of 103. Born on October 14, 1922, in Creston, Iowa, MayBelle lived a life rich in love and devotion to her family and community.
For the majority of her life, MayBelle dedicated herself to being a homemaker on the family farm just outside of Steamboat Rock. Her hands were skilled in the art of knitting and cooking, passions that brought great joy to her and those around her. MayBelle's warm and kind nature made her a cherished figure among her family and friends, with whom she loved to spend time, particularly enjoying the sight of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as they grew.
MayBelle is survived by her son, Tony (Jane) Doolaard; four grandchildren, Jeremy Doolaard, Emily (Jeff) Lentzkow, Amber (Greg) Johnson, and Alex (Anna) Doolaard; as well as nine great-grandchildren who were a source of immense pride and joy in her later years. She also shared a special bond with her sister, Esta Koop.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cornelius Doolaard, along with her sisters Ida (Martin) Rameyer, Wanda (John) VanLenning, and Carmen (Bonji) Dohlman.
A visitation to honor MayBelle's life will take place on November 21, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Abels Funeral and Cremation Services in Eldora, Iowa. The family invites all who knew her to come and share in the remembrance of this remarkable woman whose influence has left an indelible mark on the hearts of many. At 2:00 PM a private graveside service will take place.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
905 Edgington Avenue, Eldora, IA 50627

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more