Kelly Stenwall

1965 - 2025

"Just decide today what you want tomorrow to be, and it will be."

With a heart as kind as it was powerful, Kelly Sue Stenwall left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She passed away surrounded by love and the legacy of a life well-lived.

Kelly carried a spirit of curiosity, creativity, and compassion throughout her life. A talented artist and lifelong learner, she approached the world with intelligence, grace, and an unwavering desire to grow. Her warmth was magnetic - genuine and generous, and those lucky enough to know her often said their lives were better for it.

Kelly's professional journey was rooted in care. She held numerous nursing roles over the years, ultimately earning her master's degree in nursing education. At the time of her passing, she was both a dedicated nurse at Nebraska Medical Center and a beloved instructor at Western Iowa Tech Community College in Sioux City, where she inspired the next generation of caregivers.

Above all, Kelly adored her family, especially her grandchildren, who lit up her world in ways only they could. Her love for them was fierce, joyful, and deeply felt.

Kelly is survived by her parents, Jacqueline and Dennis Rasmussen; her sister, Ruby Safa (Alfie); her brother, Wayne Rasmussen (Trisha); her son, Theodore Rumzek (Chrissy); her daughter, Jessica Moore (Michael); her beloved grandchildren: Jaxson Rumzek (14), Cheyenne Moore (13), Ethan Rumzek (11), Freya Rumzek (5), Bristol Moore (2), Tyson Moore (1), and Sailor Rumzek (5 months); and her significant other, Michael Hoefer and his children, Luke Hoefer (Taylor), Cat Baker-Coleman, Wyatt Hoefer, and grandchildren, Atticus Baker (18) and Reid Coleman (9).

She will be remembered for her artistry, her intellect, her laughter, and the way she made everyone feel seen, valued, and loved. She was our sun. We encourage you to share your photos and stories at https://www.mykeeper.com/KellyStenwall/.

Kelly bravely beat leukemia but passed away while awaiting a blood stem cell transplant. In her honor, the family invites you to consider registering at www.nmdp.org (formerly Be The Match) to see if you might be a match for someone in need of a bone marrow or blood stem cell donation. Your decision could save a life.

A celebration of Kelly's life will be held Saturday, October 25th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cunningham Lake (Big C Shelter Entrance #3). In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) via https://dvipiowa.org/donate/, honoring her lifelong commitment to healing and helping others.