Mildred Rinnels

Mildred Jean Rinnels, age 62, of Waucoma, Iowa died Monday December 11, 2023 at her son's home in rural Lime Springs, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at the Heritage Event Center in Cresco. A Prayer Service will follow at 7:00 p.m. Hugeback-Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements. Mildred Jean Rinnels was born on March 27, 1961, in Waterloo, IA, the daughter of Leonard and Helen (Frickson) Tyler. Mildred's early years were spent in Waterloo, where she received her education and graduated from Columbus High School in 1979. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to her studies took her to Wartburg College in Waverly, IA, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree, setting the stage for a life of service and compassion. It was in Waverly that Mildred's heart found its match. She met her future husband, and together they embarked on a journey of love and companionship, culminating in their marriage on January 22, 1983, at the picturesque Little Brown Church in the Vale in Nashua, IA. The union blossomed with the arrival of their two sons, Robert and Tyler, who were the pride and joy of her life. The family made their home near Waverly before moving to Waucoma in 1995, where they built a life filled with laughter and cherished memories. Mildred's professional life was marked by her caring spirit. She spent 16 years in housekeeping at the Hillcrest Home in Sumner, Iowa, and worked a second job at Bucky's Convenience Store in Lawler so since she always needed to stay busy. She more recently, worked at Featherlite in Cresco. The loss of her husband, Kent, on March 7, 2010, due to complications from leukemia, was a profound sadness for Mildred. Yet, she faced this adversity with grace and resilience, finding solace in the love of her family and the joy of her grandchildren, whom she adored more than anything. Her passion for life was evident in the way she embraced every moment with them, traveling and creating unforgettable memories. Mildred's interests reflected her vibrant personality. She found delight in simple pleasures, such as visits to McDonald's, watching her favorite television show "Friends," and indulging in the latest offerings on HGTV. Her special friend, Pat Rosonke, along with other family members, were frequent companions in her adventures, sharing in the laughter and stories that defined their time together. An animal lover at heart, Mildred's compassionate nature extended to her cherished pets, whose presence brought her immense joy. In quiet moments, she could be found playing solitaire, engrossed in word searches, or simply enjoying the company of her loved ones. She had a passion for holiday baking and enjoyed sharing with friends and family. Survivors include two sons, Robert (Sami) Rinnels of Lime Springs, IA, Tyler (Erica) Rinnels of Cresco, IA; two granddaughters, Leah and Kaylee Rinnels; special friend, Pat Rosonke of New Hampton; her mother-in-law, Betty Barkhausen; brothers, Robert Tyler, Matt (Rachael) Tyler, Kurt Coburn, all of Waterloo; sisters, Tammy Tangen of Decorah, Violette Tyler of Dunkerton, IA, Larissa (Billy) Deeds of Waterloo, Beth Amo of Waterloo; She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, "Bob" Kent Rinnels; brothers, Mike, Lester, Richard, James, Russell, and Jody Tyler; sisters, Debbie Tyler, Carlah Apfel.