Carol J. Kueny

Carol Jean Kueny, 83, passed away on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, IA. A visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, December 3, 2023, at McLaren’s Chapel (801 19th St. West Des Moines, IA 50265) followed by a memorial service at 4 p.m. at McLaren’s. A private entombment will be at Resthaven Mausoleum.

Carol was born on April 30, 1940, to Ralph R. Allen, Sr., and Ruth Allen (née Kepner) in Havelock, NE, and was adopted in 1942 by Walter Thoms and Clara Thoms (née Ambroz) of Wausa, NE. Carol was raised by her parents as an only child but was able to reunite with her 10 biological siblings as an adult.

During a childhood that Carol once described as, “fabulous,” her favorite memories included riding her horses, participating in rodeos, and belonging to the 4-H Saddle Club. She also loved to roller skate and attend dances in her youth. Carol’s lifelong love of music began early, and she played several instruments, including piano, saxophone, and accordion.

In 1957, Carol graduated from Wausa High School in Wausa, NE, and then began college at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, NE. As she progressed in her studies, she felt called to nursing, and two years later transferred to Nebraska Methodist College in Omaha, NE, to begin her nursing education. Although her nursing career began in Omaha, NE, most of it was spent working in Iowa. Her commitment to her craft was unwavering and she used her skills to excel in a variety of nursing roles, including pediatrics, school nursing, occupational medicine, emergency medicine, and case management. Later in her career, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Arts from the College of St. Francis in Joliet, IL. Her influential dedication to nursing continues through one of her daughters and two of her granddaughters who share her love of the profession.

On May 11, 1963, Carol married the love of her life, Earl Vincent Kueny, in Omaha, NE. They met on a blind date facilitated by her future sister-in-law, Catherine Kueny. Together they raised their three daughters in: Omaha, NE; Exira, IA; Boone, IA; Des Moines, IA; and Ankeny, IA. Later in life, they moved to Clive, IA.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Carol found joy and solace in simple pleasures. Reading, family genealogy, and crossword puzzles were among her favorite pastimes. Carol was a creative soul – she enjoyed crafting and engaging in many hobbies, including cross stitch and crochet. Her compassionate nature extended to her love for animals, and she was known throughout her life for her kindness and care toward all creatures, especially her beloved pets.

Family was at the center of Carol's world. She delighted in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories and leaving an imprint of love on each generation. Her infectious laugh, vibrant spirit, and fun-loving nature made every gathering a joyous occasion. The memories of her laughter will echo in the hearts of those who shared in her company.

Carol is survived by her children: Christine (Jeff) Schmitt of Ankeny, IA; Stephanie Gordon of South Carolina; and Jennifer (Rob) Scallon of Clive, IA; eleven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and two of her siblings: Sandy Bennett and Tom Wilson. She was preceded in death by her husband, Earl Kueny; her parents, Walter Thoms and Clara Thoms; biological parents, Ralph R. Allen, Sr., and Ruth Allen; and siblings, Ralph Allen, Jr., Marie Jersin, Ruth Raney, Billie Renker, Albert Allen, Leo Allen, Dorothy Raney, and Shirley Klinker.

Memorials may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, causes close to Carol’s heart.