Elma “Gobie” Vennard, age 85, of La Crosse and formerly of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 21, 2018.  She was born on May 2, 1933 to Alfred and Emma Stern.  She married Bruce Vennard on June 10, 1955 in Burlington, Iowa.

Elma lived most of her life in Des Moines where she enjoyed a variety of jobs in addition to raising her family.  She worked for many years as a preschool teacher and as an employee of the Urbandale Public Library.  Her creativity and kindness touched many lives and she will be long remembered as a loving mother/grandmother and a faithful friend.

The move to La Crosse seven years ago was necessary as her illness progressed.  She still was able to enjoy walking her beloved dog, Buddy, attending her grandson’s sports events and volunteering at church as she was able. While Alzheimer’s erased her memory, the disease couldn’t take away Gobie’s gentle and loving spirit.  Throughout her life, Elma’s strength and perseverance in the face of adversity served as an inspiration to her family and her many friends.

Elma is survived by daughters Leslie (Jerry) Root, Leigh Vennard; grandchildren Matthew Root, Basil Vennard and Forrest Mc Daniel.  She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bruce; and daughter Michele (Muffy).

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Jackie Yeager, the Home Visit Doctor, for her amazing care of Gobie this past year.  Special thanks to everyone at Eagle Crest South, Hearten House II, and Merit Center who helped care for Gobie.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 15 at 4 p.m. at the Black River Beach Neighborhood Center.  Burial will be held at a later date in Urbandale, Iowa.  Memorials may be directed to the LAF/Trane All Abilities Park Project or the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Wisconsin Chapter.

We love you Gobie!