Florence M. Sitterle

Florence Marie (Hamman) Sitterle, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the age of 99.
She was born on August 11, 1926, to Harry Robert Hamman and Agnes Bridgett (Flynn) Hamman of Dundee, Minnesota. She spent her formative years living in Perry, Iowa alongside her seven siblings.

Florence or “Tudy” to those who knew her well, married Lawrence Eugene Sitterle on September 21, 1946. They had met upon his return from serving in the United States Navy during World War II. They went on to raise a family in Des Moines. She had a tremendous sense of humor and reveled in telling a great story, like the time she and Lawrence won a contest at the Hinky Dinky supermarket, and had the option of taking a trip to Paris or a Chevy Delray. Ever practical, they opted for the car. Florence was a model member of the community. She was uncommonly generous with her time and attention, working tirelessly to ensure that the needs of those around her were met. And although she was no stranger to adversity, Florence met life’s challenges with a grit and determination that are to be admired. Perhaps her greatest quality was her ability to connect with other people and make them feel special, particularly her friends and family members.

Outside of her dedication to work and homemaking, she enjoyed socializing with neighbors and had a love of traveling, particularly to Las Vegas, but she could also make a day-trip to Pella or the Amana Colonies feel like a special occasion. She devoted considerable time to creating a loving and supporting environment for her grandchildren and delighted equally in spending time with her great grandchildren.

Florence is survived by her children, Larry Sitterle and Denise Johannesen; grandchildren, Kelli (Bill) Johannesen-Logan and Kevin (Courtney Sullivan) Johannesen; great-grandchildren, Bennett William, Leo Lawrence, and Stella Wren; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 71 years, Lawrence, who she dearly missed; infant son, Dennis Sitterle; and her siblings, John, Bob, Bill, Tim, Tom, and Gene Hamman, and Annabelle Lewis.

There will be a private graveside service on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 7601 Fleur Drive, Des Moines. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Disabled American Veterans, Payable To: DAV, 210 Walnut Street. #566 Federal Bldg. Des Moines, IA 50309. Memo: Florence Sitterle.

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