Mary Louise Romans

February 26, 1940 — June 14, 2026

Mary Romans

Service Details

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Mary Louise Romans, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, on June 14, 2026, at the age of 86. Mary passed away in the comforting presence of family at Valley View Village in the care of Hospice of the Midwest, following a courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Her grace and strength throughout her illness were a testament to the resilient spirit she carried throughout her life.

Born on February 26, 1940, in Madison, Wisconsin, Mary was the cherished daughter of George William and Elizabeth Louise (Hegberg) Seiler. She grew up with a deep appreciation for family values, which she carried with her throughout her life. Mary graduated from Madrid High School in 1958.

Mary dedicated over three decades of her life to serving her community through her work at Bankers Life (now Principal Financial Group) and later at the Veterans Hospital Medical Administration. She retired in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her colleagues and the countless individuals she assisted.

In 1985, Mary found her soulmate in Robert R. Romans, and they were married on April 4 in Des Moines, Iowa. Together, they shared 30 beautiful years of marriage, filled with love, laughter, and adventure, until Robert's passing in 2015. Their bond was exemplified through their mutual passion for fishing trips to Minnesota and their shared love for their Miniature Schnauzers, which Mary proudly showcased at dog shows across the Midwest.

Mary's nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family. She is survived by her stepdaughters, Emily Romans of Des Moines, IA, and Susan (Darin) Ballard of Des Moines, IA. Her legacy continues through her grandsons, Timothy (Megan) Ballard of Bondurant, IA, Andrew Ballard of Des Moines, IA, and Dillon (Sabrina) Romans of Wichita, KS, and her great-grandsons, Parker Ballard and Gavin Ballard.

Mary is also lovingly remembered by her brother, Russell Seiler, and her nieces and nephews: Susan (Walker) Robinett, Karissa Hanson (Jason), Christopher Seiler, Kent Hanson, and Kyle (Raian) Hanson. She leaves behind cherished memories with her great-nieces, Cora Seiler, Lauryn Hanson, Hailey Hanson, and great-nephew, Jack Bertram.

Mary was predeceased by her beloved husband, Robert, her sister Nancy Hanson, brother-in-law Robert Hanson, sister-in-law Carla Seiler, and niece Kristine Hanson, who now welcome her with open arms.
A woman of many talents, Mary was blessed with a green thumb. Her beautiful flower garden in West Des Moines was a testament to her love of nature, a passion she continued with even after relocating to Des Moines by adorning her surroundings with vibrant flowerpots.

Mary's life was a tapestry woven with love, resilience, and beauty. Her memory will forever be cherished by those who knew her, as her gentle spirit and kind heart have left an indelible mark on the world. Her family finds comfort in the knowledge that she is now at peace, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.

A funeral service will be held Monday, June 22, 2026 at 10:00am at the Valley View Village Chapel, 2571 Guthrie Avenue in Des Moines. A luncheon will follow the service and burial will be at Resthaven Cemetery in West Des Moines.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Hospice of the Midwest or Forever Home Dog Rescue in her memory.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com