Lucille Vannoy

Lucille Donna Vannoy, 92, was born on August 3, 1933, in rural Mahaska County, Iowa to Raymond and Luella (Sumner) Scharff. She grew up on a large farm, where her lifelong passion for country living began.

Lucille married Dean Vannoy in 1950 in Oskaloosa, Iowa. They later moved to Altoona, where they raised their seven children before eventually settling in Bondurant. There, Lucille began her beloved business, Lucille’s Garden Center, which she owned and operated for 56 years with the help of family and her dear volunteers, Chet and Rosemary, Jan, Barb and Dixie. The garden center was her pride and joy. She loved her work; her flowers, and especially her customers. Lucille had a gift for making everyone’s day a little brighter and she truly enjoyed visiting with anyone who crossed her path.

Lucille and Dean shared 69 years of marriage before his passing. She was known for her kindness, optimism, and ability to see the good in everyone. No matter what challenges came her way, Lucille faced them with a smile and her signature saying, “Whatever, no biggie!”

In addition to running her garden center, Lucille worked for Dr. Phelan’s office, she drove a school bus for Southeast Polk, and later retired from Warren Frozen Foods.

Family was everything to Lucille. She was endlessly grateful for her friends and loved ones who helped and supported her through the years. Sundays were often spent surrounded by family at Grandma’s house. She was happiest in her kitchen, preparing a big dinner for anyone who walked through door – especially her famous fried chicken and ham.

Left to remember her are her daughters, Sherrill (Don) Raitt and Donna (Roland) Brees; sons, Dennis Vannoy, Les (Brenda) Vannoy and Mark Vannoy; son-in-law, Gary Garner; 15 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; sister, Norma Arteman; brothers, Lee (Linda) Scharff and Rex (Connie) Scharff; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Lucille was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Vannoy; son, Rodney Vannoy; daughter, Carole Renaud; parents, Raymond and Luella Scharff; sister, Letha Lee; and her granddaughter, Mary Roftus.

A Celebration of Lucille’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) in loving memory of Lucille.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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