Cynthia L. Drafahl

Cynthia L. Drafahl

Sept. 4, 1959 - Feb. 26, 2024

INDEPENDENCE- Cynthia L. Drafahl, 64, of Independence, Iowa, peacefully passed away on February 26, 2024, at her home after a long illness surrounded by her family.

Cindi was born September 4, 1959, in Independence. She graduated from Independence Jefferson High School in 1978. Cindi enjoyed her work as a client job trainer at Goodwill Industries Cedar Rapids. She later attended Hawkeye Community College and became a hospice CNA. She worked for Iowa Hospice and St. Croix Hospice for many years, which she found very fulfilling. She made many lasting friendships during this time.

Cindi enjoyed traveling to Mexico annually for over 30 years (specifically Cabo San Lucas). While in Cabo, she helped to raise funds for her favorite charity - Amigos de Los Ninos of Cabo San Lucas. She also collected clothes and toys throughout the year to distribute to the children of Cabo. Mexico was a very special place to her, where she met and cultivated many lifelong friends, she considered family!

Cindi enjoyed spending time with her family, including her fur children Ojitos and Zoe. As her family and friends know, she had a great laugh, funny sense of humor and moxie. She loved making jewelry to sell for charity fundraising events, fossil hunting, working on her denim embroidery projects, enjoying the outdoors, and exploring Backbone State Park.

Cindi is survived by a loving and close family: her son, Jesse L. Drafahl of Oelwein, and sisters; Cristina L. (Paul A.) Leonard of Iowa City, Jamie J. Hoaglan of Independence.

Cindi is preceded in death by her beloved parents Donna and Cato Hoaglan, infant daughter Emily and her grandparents.

We are grateful to the healthcare professionals at UIHC, Cedar Valley Hospice, BCHC and countless friends.

Cindi was very special and her passing leaves an unfillable hole in the hearts of her family and friends.

Memorials can be sent to Amigos de Los Ninos Cabo San Lucas adlncabo.org (provides healthcare and treatment to impoverished children) or to Cedar Valley Hospice (cvhospice.org).

A private service will be held at a later date. The Reiff Family Center - Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.

To leave an online condolence please go to www.reifffamilycenter.com under obituaries.