Obituary of Elaine Yoder

Elaine Evelyn Yoder, age 87, of Kalona and a longtime resident of Iowa City, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Pleasantview Home in Kalona, with her family by her side.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at First Mennonite Church of Iowa City, with a reception to follow. A private family inurnment will be held at the church columbarium. To share a thought, memory, or condolence with the family, please visit the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website at www.gayandciha.com.

Elaine Kennel was born on June 9, 1939, in Shickley, Nebraska, the daughter of Oran and Barbara (Springer) Kennel. Her family later moved to the Iowa City area, where she attended Iowa Mennonite School, graduating with the Class of 1957. She then attended Hesston College in Kansas.

On September 3, 1959, Elaine married the love of her life, Wilford D. Yoder, at First Mennonite Church in Iowa City. Together, they became founding members of the congregation and built a life centered on faith, family, and service. They made their home in Iowa City, where they welcomed their two daughters, Beth and Cindi.

Elaine devoted herself to raising her family. Her daughters were blessed by their mother's constant presence throughout their childhood. She was always there to help, encourage, listen, and, above all, love them unconditionally. After her daughters were in junior high school, Elaine began a career as a nurse's assistant in the Pediatric Clinic at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, where she compassionately cared for children and their families for more than 30 years.

Elaine’s Christian faith was the foundation of everything she did. She faithfully served First Mennonite Church in countless ways. She taught Sunday school, helped organize church events, and generously gave her time and talents wherever they were needed. Elaine was one of the church’s first female elders. Her grace-filled faith and compassionate heart touched generations of people.

Beyond her church involvement, Elaine found joy in reading, tending her flower gardens, traveling the world with family and friends, and supporting Wilford in his photography pursuits. She also became known for her thoughtful notes and heartfelt letters, offering encouragement and comfort to many through the years.

Of all the blessings in Elaine's life, none meant more to her than her family. Coming from a large family and marrying into another, Elaine deeply valued the relationships she shared with both her Kennel and Yoder families throughout her life. Whether gathered with her children, grandchildren, extended family, or lifelong friends who had become family, her smile reflected the joy she found in simply being together. Those moments of love, laughter, and fellowship were among her greatest treasures.

Elaine’s family includes her husband of nearly 67 years, Wilford; her daughters, Beth Parson (William) and Cindi Schrock (Roger); her grandchildren, Sarah Parson, Luke Parson, Hannah Leaman (Kevin), and Rachel Schrock (Sara Shenk Moreno); her great-grandson, Amari; her siblings, Norman Kennel, Ila Howe, Shirley Knippa, and Russ Kennel (Linda); Wilford's extended family; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Jeanette Barber and Anita Spenler; her brothers, Darrell Kennel, Gene Kennel, her in-laws, Donna Kennel, Lenard Spenler, Ron Knippa, Tillie Kennel, Randy Howe and her dear niece, Elizabeth (Betsy) Kennel Williams.

Elaine's life was a beautiful example of steadfast faith, humble service, enduring love, and quiet generosity. She leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Throughout her life, Elaine gave generously to others. In keeping with that spirit, she chose to become an organ and tissue donor. The family is deeply grateful to Iowa City Hospice and Pleasantview Home for the compassionate care and support they provided to Elaine and her family. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made in Elaine’s memory to Iowa City Hospice, Pleasantview Home or First Mennonite Church of Iowa City.