Lilah Elizabeth Ness

Lilah Ness passed away on March 3, 2026, at her home, surrounded by those who loved her. She was 92 years old.

Lilah was born at home on November 8, 1933, in Stuart, Iowa, to Joseph and Mildred (Freiberg) Waltz. She graduated from Winterset High School with the Class of 1951. After high school, she worked for Travelers Insurance before starting her family and later returned to the same position when her children were older. She retired from Travelers in 1991.

Lilah spent many years volunteering with Iowa Public Television, the American Cancer Society, and United Way’s RSVP program. She taught the importance of volunteerism to her granddaughter and great-granddaughter. She was a seasoned traveler, having visited many states and countries. One of her travel adventures even included riding her bicycle across Iowa during RAGBRAI—from the Missouri River to the Mississippi River—at the age of 57.

Lilah enjoyed quilting, embroidery, crocheting, music, and attending live theater events at the Des Moines Civic Center.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughters, Diane (Bryan) Yates and Sheryl (Chris) Granke; grandchildren, Jessica and Mike Nothdorf; great-granddaughter, Ashley Nothdorf; sisters, Karen Jensen and Susie (Dick) McCauley; brother, Dennis (Denise) Waltz as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Ness; daughter Cindy Baker; brother Joseph Waltz Jr.; and brother-in-law Robert (Bob) Jensen.

Her family would like to thank the staff at Every Step Hospice for their care and support during her final months, with a special thank you to Todd, Sarah, and Brie.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home (8201 Hickman Rd., Urbandale), with a Celebration of Life directly following. A private burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Friends of IPTV, Des Moines Performing Arts, or Every Step Hospice.