Marinda L. Babeshoff
Marinda “Rindy” Lynn Babeshoff, 71, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, June 9, 2024, at her home. Marinda Lynn Sparks was born on December 12, 1952, to James and Patricia (Oakes) Sparks in Galesburg, IL. She married the love of her life James Babeshoff in Whittier, CA on August 12, 1976.
Faith played a central role in Rindy’s life. Her love for her family was second only to her love for God and His only son Jesus. This love was profound and woven into her daily existence. She was an active member of Faith Community Church, serving as a deaconess, participating in Bible studies, children’s ministry, and ladies’ groups, where she found fellowship and a place to share her deep convictions and love.
Rindy was a woman who could excel at any task presented to her. Ranging from medical transcription to teaching, she worked for others to help support and rear her daughters into successful, well-rounded women. Once her children were adults, she was able to focus on her passions. Rindy earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Iowa in 2003, a testament to her creative soul. Her thirst for knowledge and a desire to serve led her back to academia, where she achieved a Registered Nursing degree from Scott Community College in 2007. Rindy’s professional life was marked by dedication and compassion, through her teaching elementary education, working with the Have a Healthy Baby program, and culminating in caring for countless patients at Genesis Hospital in Davenport, Iowa.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rindy was known for her remarkable talent and creativity. She mastered the art of pottery, spinning, weaving, sewing, quilting, and crafting. Her creations were not just objects of beauty but also a source of warmth and comfort for her beloved children and grandchildren. Each quilt she made remains a cherished embrace from a woman whose hands were never idle.
Those who love her will remember her not only for her creativity, but also her sense of humor. Whether it was laughing at being called “Mommy Dearest” by her daughters or joking about her “witch powers” with her sons-in-law, Rindy always kept those around her joyful with her playful retorts and anecdotes. She was always ready with a swift come back and her smile is forever etched in the minds of those who knew her.
Rindy’s adventurous spirit found pleasure in traveling with her husband, Jim. Together, they explored the scenic beauty of Door County, Wisconsin, and shared memorable moments on trips to Texas and Alabama to visit their daughters and extended family. These journeys were as much about discovery as they were about the joy of being with loved ones.
In April 2023, Rindy faced her most formidable challenge when diagnosed with endometrial cancer. She confronted this adversity with characteristic determination, undergoing radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery. Through the unwavering support of her husband Jim, sheer willpower, and resilience, she progressed from immobility to walking unassisted and even driving once again. Rindy’s battle with cancer was a testament to her strength and tenacity. Unfortunately, cancer is a relentless foe. Despite her valiant fight, Rindy’s journey with the disease came to an end as she passed peacefully in her sleep. Now, she rests with Jesus, undoubtedly crafting beauty in Heaven as she did on Earth.
Those left to honor her memory include her husband Jim Babeshoff of Delmar; daughters Lori (Wes) Herrera of Elk Grove, CA; Gretchen Hunt of Dallas, TX; Simone (Dan) Donovan of Boone, IA; and Wendy (David) StJohn of Montgomery, AL; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; and a brother Christoper (Kay) Sparks of Portland, OR. She was preceded in death by parents and a brother Jimmy.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date, yet to be determined. In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marinda Lynn Babeshoff Memorial Fund has been established.
The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family and cremation rites have been accorded. Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.