Lola Himmel

Lola Himmel, age 95, passed away on December 28, 2025, in Polk County, Iowa.

Lola was born on October 20, 1930, in Eldora, Iowa, to Paul and Laureen (Wykle) Himmel. She grew up on a farm in the Radcliffe area and attended grade school at Sherman Township #6, a one-room schoolhouse.

Lola graduated from high school in 1948, where she was an accomplished athlete. That year, her girls’ basketball team advanced to the State Tournament, losing the first game in overtime. In recognition of her skill and dedication, Lola was named to the 5th Team All-State.

She continued her education by graduating from the Methodist School of Nursing in 1952, and later from North Central College in 1959. Lola dedicated her professional life to caring for others, working for five years at Espanola Mission Hospital in New Mexico. She later returned to Des Moines, where she was employed at Internal Medical – Iowa Physician Clinic for several years before retiring in 1995.

Lola greatly enjoyed her years in retirement, spending time with family and friends. She loved eating out, playing cards, especially spades and hand-and-foot cribbage, following sporting events, and sharing laughter. She was known for her good sense of humor and her ability to appreciate the “perks,” or good things, in life each day.

Lola had a special way with her great nieces and nephews. When she came to visit, or when they came to see her, she always arrived with a package of M&Ms for each. The price of those M&Ms was simple: a hug and a kiss. Over time, the candy became optional. The hugs and kisses came freely, whether the M&Ms did or not.
Lola was a longtime member of Union Park Baptist Church.

She is survived by her nephew Keith (Susan) Himmel Jr.; her great-nieces and nephews Natalie (Ryan) Schalk, Rachel Himmel, David (Lori) Hockett, Brian Hockett, Julie (Matt) Raasch, John (Aleigha) Riggins, and Jeremy Riggins; and many great-great-nieces and nephews, as well as many loyal friends who remained close to her throughout the years.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister El Jean; her brothers Ronald and Keith; and her sister-in-law Joan.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memorial of Lola.

Condolences may be expressed online at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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