Lois Menzel

Lois Menzel, 74, died Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at Kavanagh House on 56th street, seven years after being diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Lois is survived by her husband, Wayne; daughter, Paula Hartmann (Paul) of Davenport; grandson, Eric and granddaughter, Lucy; sister, Jeannie Boyer (Ron) of Cedar Rapids; brother, Bob Jacoby of Marengo; and ten nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her son, Scott and parents, Ray and Elizabeth Jacoby.

Lois attended country school near the Jacoby farm and was graduated from Marengo High School in 1954. She received a degree in home economics from the U of I in 1958 and married Wayne in June, 1958. Lois worked at Preferred Risk Insurance Company in the 1970s. Her retirement years included trips to Gunnison, Colorado and the Southwest, bike trips in Europe, small ship cruises as well as weekly tennis and yoga. Lois contributed to fund-raising activities with the Clive Lions Club and participated in their many social events and spouse meetings. She particularly enjoyed her grandchildren and their many activities.

The family gives special thanks to Dr. Bob Shreck and nurses Tammie and Katie at Medical Oncology and Hematology as well as the many nurses and specialists at Iowa Health. Thanks also to Dr. Richard Deming at Mercy Radiation/Oncology and to the caring staff and volunteers at Hospice of Central Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be given to John Stoddard Cancer Center or Hospice of Central Iowa. A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., Friday, November 19, 2010 at McLaren’s Funeral Chapel. Memorial services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at Douglas Avenue Presbyterian Church. Lois directed that her body be donated to Des Moines University.