Jenee Joyce Ihde

Jenee Joyce Ihde passed away unexpectedly at the University of Iowa Hospitals on Friday, November 15th, surrounded by the love of her family. Jenee was born on May 3rd, 1946 in Boulder, Colorado to Brian and Elaine (Dittmer) Wadsworth. In 1962 her family moved to Garnavillo, Iowa when her father became the superintendent of schools. She graduated from Garnavillo High School in 1964 and went on to earn a degree in Education from the University of Northern Iowa. During her time in Garnavillo, Jenee met her high school sweetheart, Allen Ihde. While Jenee pursued her studies, Allen served his country in Vietnam. Upon his return, they were married the day after her college graduation, beginning a 56-year union filled with shared adventures. Her other lifelong love, Elvis Presley, remained present in the form of cherished mementos and stories, including the one about "the scarf." Jenee’s life’s work and passion was teaching. Her first job was in a small, 20-student school in Kentucky while Allen completed his service at Fort Knox. The couple later settled in Bondurant, Iowa, where they built their first home and later started their family. In 1973, Jenee accepted a teaching position at Bondurant-Farrar Elementary, where she would leave an indelible mark on generations of students. Jenee’s teaching career spanned over five decades, during which she became a beloved fixture in her community. It was not uncommon for her to teach the children—and sometimes grandchildren—of former students. She was known for her creative activities, including making snow ice cream, "purple-urple" drinks, superstar cookbooks, and art plate projects. The day ended with her signature farewell “Have a sunshiny day!” She was overjoyed when her dedication was recognized in 2008 when she received the WHO Golden Apple Award, just a month before her attempt at retirement. Until the end, her love for teaching endured, and she continued to serve as a substitute teacher. Above all, Jenee cherished her role as a grandmother. She took immense joy in the lives of her four grandchildren, often sharing proud “grandma brags” with anyone who would listen. She played a pivotal role in raising her grandson and was a constant fixture supporting her granddaughters. No distance was ever too far for her; whether England or Virginia, she made sure to be present for moments, big or small. Jenee loved Iowa football games, visiting her lake house in Missouri, and embarking on family trips. She was a selfless source of strength for her family, friends, and community. She actively participated in local organizations throughout her life, including the Bondurant Civic Club and the Bondurant Legion Auxiliary. Jenee’s generosity of spirit and unwavering support left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Jenee is survived by her husband, Allen Ihde of Bondurant, IA; her children, Michael (Marianne) of Oak Hill, VA, and Kirsten (Toby) of Bondurant, IA; her beloved grandchildren, Gwendolyn, Audrey, Alison, and Gage; her sisters, Sharon and Diane; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Dennis. An intimate funeral service will be held to honor Jenee’s life in December. A Celebration of Life event will follow on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 1pm - 4pm, at the American Legion Post 396, 315 2nd St. NW., Bondurant, Iowa, to allow her former students, colleagues, friends, and family to gather and joyfully remember her enduring impact. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Bondurant-Farrar Education Foundation, dedicated to elementary education in Jenee Ihde’s memory. https://bfschools.revtrak.net/donations/#/f/General-Donation-Fund Bondurant-Farrar Education Foundation P.O. Box 212 Bondurant, IA 50035

Jenee Joyce Ihde

May 6, 1946 - November 15, 2024