Gwendolyn L. “Gwen” Elmegreen, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Monmouth, Iowa, on January 27, 2024, just one day after celebrating her 80th birthday. Born in Keokuk, Iowa, on January 26, 1944, to Hubert and Neva Mae (Teastworth) Stark, Gwen grew up to be a woman of strong faith and unwavering dedication to her family.

Gwen graduated from Pleasant Valley High School in 1963 and immediately embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying her soulmate, Ronald Elmegreen, that same year. The young couple’s love blossomed, and together they purchased a farm near the Ozark Bridge in 1965, which they would call home for the rest of their lives. Their partnership extended beyond their marriage as they worked side by side to cultivate a life filled with love and hard work on their beloved farm. 

In addition to her commitment to the family farm, Gwen was a compassionate soul who dedicated part of her life to caring for others as a home healthcare provider. Her nurturing nature also found expression in her work at the Ertl Toy Factory in Dyersville and later as a friendly and familiar face to many as a cashier at Walmart in Maquoketa.

Gwen’s life was a testament to her faith and the joy she found in simple pleasures. She was a devout Christian who lived her beliefs through acts of kindness and love. As a member of the Maquoketa VFW Ladies Auxiliary, she contributed to her community and honored the service of others. Her hobbies reflected her creative spirit and love for life. Gwen was an accomplished quilter, creating beautiful works of art that will be cherished by her family for generations. An avid reader, she delighted in the twists and turns of a good mystery novel. Her green thumb was evident in the vibrant plants that flourished under her care, a symbol of her ability to nurture and grow all that surrounded her.

Gwen’s legacy is carried on by her loving husband, Ronald Elmegreen of Monmouth, IA; her children, Von Elmegreen of Oklahoma City, OK, Heidi (Jerry) Weets of Lockport, IL, and Art (Kathy) Elmegreen of Delmar, IA. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren, Kellie (Johnn) Sanabria, Amanda Weets, Auston (Christine) Weets, Allison Weets, Sarah Mai, and Aaron Clark, and a doting great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of her life will held at 10:00 AM, Friday, February 2, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Ozark Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gwendolyn L. “Gwen” Elmegreen memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.