It is with profound sadness that the family of Theresa Kenkel, age 32, of Earling, announces her passing on July 31, 2025.
A beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Theresa is remembered for her warmth, compassion, and the light she brought into the lives of others.
Raised in Earling, Theresa was known for her kindness and genuine care for community members. She is survived by her close-knit family and extended relatives, who cherished her joyful spirit and supportive nature.
Theresa had a generous heart and a ready smile. She was someone people turned to in a moment of need, offering comfort without hesitation.
Her thoughtful gestures, whether small or significant, made a lasting impact in her community.
On July 31, 2025, local authorities responded to a welfare concern at her home in Earling.
There, they sadly found Theresa had passed away. Her body was transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy,
and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, aided by Iowa’s Division of Criminal Investigation, confirmed the incident appears isolated with no ongoing risk to the public.
In the absence of confirmed funeral details, the family plans to share service arrangements when available.
In the meantime, the community is invited to remember Theresa through personal reflections or shared stories of the impact she made.
Theresa was not just a presence in Earling she was the neighborhood. Her soft voice carried strength, and her gestures reflected deep empathy.
Whether assisting a neighbor, sharing a thoughtful conversation, or simply lighting the room with her presence, Theresa truly understood how to connect.
She leaves behind memories that will continue to warm hearts. From neighborhood gatherings to casual meet-ups around town, her impact was quiet yet powerful. In her, many saw a familiar face and a steady friend.
While formal arrangements are pending, those wishing to honor Theresa may consider:
Supporting local community organizations in her name.
Sharing a memory or photo that commemorates an act of kindness she extended.
Reaching out to her family with words of condolence and support.
Theresa's untimely passing leaves a space that can never fully be filled, but her memory lives on in the stories, smiled shared, and love extended by those who knew her.
May we honor her spirit by embodying the same kindness and gentleness she showed each day.
