Linda Jo Datwyler
August 24, 1941 - October 8, 2022

Linda Jo Datwyler, 81, of Albia, IA, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022, with family at her bedside. A celebration of her life will be held on Friday, October 28th at 11:00 am at Trinity United Methodist Church in Albia (visitation at 10:00 and lunch to follow).

Linda is survived by her sister Karen Collins of Winterset; brother Jim Wilson of Indianola, daughter Marji Datwyler (Jeff Miller) of Blue Springs, MO, and son Kirk Datwyler (Pamela) of Albia. Her beloved grandchildren include Leah Burden (Spenser) of Ankeny, Ethan Datwyler of Des Plaines, IL, Cori Miller of Independence, MO, Wilson Miller of New Orleans, LA, Ryan Craig (Shari Vance) of Albia, Cory Craig (Jessica) of Albia, and Leah Baker (Nick) of Davenport, IA. Linda adored her great grandchildren: Esme & Lennox Craig, Knox & Jett Baker, Landry Burden, and Haven Mejia.
Linda was born in Marshalltown, IA, on August 24th, 1941, to Claren and Genevra (Felch) Wilson. After living in State Center, IA, and St. Louis, MO, Linda's family was residing in Indianola, IA, when she met her husband of 32 years, Keith Datwyler, of Peru, IA. They were married on December 5, 1958. Much to everyone's surprise (including her own) Linda loved living on a farm and was active in all facets of farm life, from milking cows to raising hogs & chickens; from working in the fields to cultivating large gardens. Linda was always active in the community. She led scout troops, PTA organizations & 4-H clubs, and also served as an election poll worker and political delegate. She was a member of the Indianola Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star and also served the Grand Chapter of Iowa.

When the farm economy collapsed in the 1970s, Linda began working outside the home in the insurance industry and education field. Always curious, she took advantage of opportunities to enroll in college classes whenever possible. Providing care to her aging grandparents sparked Linda's interest in nursing. At the age of 50 she graduated with honors from Des Moines Area Community College and completed her clinical training as a Registered Nurse with the Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. Interested in the intersection of nursing and the spiritual aspects of healing, Linda attained her Parish Nursing Certification from Marquette University and moved to Hot Springs Village, AR, to serve as a Parish nurse for Christ Lutheran Church.

Her Christian faith was the center of Linda's life. She taught Sunday school classes, led Bible study groups and was active in children's ministry. Linda was a Charter member of two churches, Word of Life Family Church in Winterset, IA, and Community of Joy Lutheran Church in Hot Springs Village, AR. After 10 + years of service as a Parish Nurse, Linda moved back to Iowa and joined Trinity United Methodist Church in Albia, where she served on the I-Care ministry team, the Staff -Parish Council and was an active leader with the United Methodist Women's organization. To further her commitment to ministering to others, Linda spent three years attending classes at Simpson College and graduated from the School for Lay Ministry in May of 2017. With a heart dedicated to serving others, Linda volunteered in her community her entire life. Her last years of service were with Monroe County Hospice and the Monroe Community Hospital Auxiliary.

Linda loved her family, and most of her favorite activities included them. For many years she enjoyed fishing trips to Canada and annual family reunion camping adventures. She traveled far and wide to support her grandchildren's school and extra-curricular activities. Linda loved to read, garden and go to the movies (Coke, popcorn & chocolate required!)

Linda will be remembered as a life-long learner, who was committed to faith, family, and service. She is celebrated for her love, her courage and her positive impact on others.

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