Elaine Stish

Elaine Stish, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on June 4, 2025, at the Carlisle Care Center in Carlisle, Iowa surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 11, 1945, in Des Moines Iowa, Elaine touched the lives of many during her time on this earth and will be forever remembered for her warmth, kindness, and boundless generosity.

Elaine met the love of her life George Stish, on a Christian dating radio station who later moved Elaine and her family from Audubon Iowa to Des Moines where they would later marry, April 9th 1988 on their lovely Victorian homestead that they shared for 31 years.

Elaine enjoyed a fulfilling career as a home health aide for Generations Incorporated, dedicating over 20 years to helping others. Her compassionate heart shone brightly in her work, where she formed lasting bonds with those she cared for. Many can attest to her remarkable ability to make anyone feel valued, as she was truly a friend to all she encountered—a testament to her outgoing personality and her belief that no one was a stranger.

Growing up in Pleasantville Iowa on the farm, Elaine graduated from Pleasantville High School in 1965. Elaine had a late start to school as she had come down with Rheumatic Fever. After graduating Elaine later attended Mercy College to pursue nursing. It was this foundation of care that guided her throughout her life, influencing not just her career but her role as a loving matriarch and friend. She shared countless memories with her family, often highlighted by her loving passion for cooking and entertaining, where her kitchen became the heart of cherished gatherings.

Elaine's massive flower gardens were renowned among her friends and neighbors, showcasing her impressive green thumb. Elaine with her youngest daughter, Shirley, would spend countless hours working on the family greenhouse, Wiese Greenhouse and Garden Center between Dexter and Stuart Iowa. The joy she found in nurturing plants matched her love for all animals and pets, making her home a bustling haven of life and warmth. Whether it was through her skilled sewing and quilting or her adventurous spirit in antiquing and attending auctions with George , she found beauty in everyday moments.

Traveling was an integral part of Elaine's life; she reveled in journeys to visit family in Idaho, specifically Sun Valley, creating cherished memories that will resonate for generations. Keeping active was important to her, and she found joy in walks at the mall with George , embracing the beauty around her while staying vibrant and engaged in life.

Elaine is survived by her loving children, Michael (Tammy) Palm, Dixie (Doug) Miller, Shirley (Chris) Fisher, Step- daughter, Becky(Greg) Street, Step-son, George “Willie” (Kathy) Stish, Step-daughter Shelly (Steve) Strawser, Daughter-in-law Maureen Stish, Aunt Fran Cooper of Carlisle Care Center. 16 Grandchildren,18 Great Grandchildren and 2 Great Great Grandchildren. Each of them carries with them a piece of her spirit and love.

She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, George Stish, who left this world on April 28, 2019, her beloved step-son, John Stish, step- grandson Timothy Stish along with her parents, Vance and Anna Andrie and grandparents Frank and Charlotte Wiese. Their memories continue to live on within the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A visitation for Elaine will take place on June 9, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory in Urbandale, Iowa. Friends and family are invited to come together to celebrate the beautiful life of Elaine Stish, sharing stories, laughter, and love in honor of a remarkable woman who made every moment.

Memorials are suggested to any local Dementia or Alzheimer's associations of your choice

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com