Geraldine “Jeri” Brend age 90 of Churdan, Iowa died on May 25, 2024, of congestive heart failure peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family and supported by St. Croix Hospice. Her body was donated to Des Moines University to further the advancement of medical and nursing education. The Memorial Mass has been scheduled for 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at the St. Patrick Catholic Church in Churdan, Iowa. A Rosary is scheduled for 4:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at the St. Patrick Catholic Church with a Visitation to follow from 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Geraldine Burke was born July 21, 1933, in Lohrville, IA to parents Edward and Genevieve (Stelpflug) Burke. She grew up in the Lohrville area and graduated from high school in 1951. On February 20, 1952, she married her lifelong partner John Brend at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Lohrville. Jeri and John made their home in the country outside of Churdan where they raised their family and created their life together on the farm. Jeri was an excellent role model and mentor to many, including numerous nieces and nephews which kept the family ties strong.
Jeri was a volunteer for 30 years for hospice. She also volunteered for the American Cancer Society, the local school board, and several committees of the St. Patrick’s and St. Columkille’s Catholic Churches. She was instrumental in getting the St. Patrick’s Church restoration underway. In her later years, Jeri remained active and also authored two novels. Her writing reminds us that she was the picture of continuous love, hard work, and faith.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children: Teresa (Mike) Johannsen of Dubuque, IA, Cindy (Jay) Kane of Noank, CT, Pam (Gary) Haberl of Lohrville, IA, Pegi (George) Erickson of Paton, IA, and Joe (Kris) Brend of Ogden, IA; 18 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; Sisters: Marty Miller, Dorothy Ellyson, and Eleanor Monahan. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband: John of 65 years; infant son: John; son: Jim; grandson: Jonathan; her brother: Ed Burke; and sisters: Marilyn Rossow and Connie Harrington.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her name can be directed to the St. Croix Hospice 1555 S.E. Delaware Ave., Ankeny, IA 50021, or New Hope Village 1211 E. 18th Street, Carroll, IA 51401.
