Anna Reihsen

Anna Laura Reihsen, 90, of Waukee, went to be with her Lord and Savior at the Kavanagh Hospice House in Des Moines on Tuesday, June 27, 2023. Born on September 7, 1932, in Mystic, Iowa, Annie was a cherished daughter of Elingson "Elec" and Mabel (Plants) Main. She attended school in Moravia, Iowa, and graduated from Centerville High School in 1950.

On August 29, 1953, Annie married the love of her life, James Fox Reihsen, who preceded her in death in 2017. Annie pursued her passion for nursing by obtaining her certification as a Registered Nurse from the Mercy College of Nursing in Des Moines. She dedicated over 50 years of her life to caring for others in her profession, retiring at the age of 74. Due to Jim’s military career, he and Annie resided in many places throughout the United States and overseas over the course of her life.

Annie was a devout member of the Catholic Church which held a special place in her heart. Her Catholic faith was a guiding force in her life, and she found solace and inspiration in the Word of God. Annie and Jim shared a love for travel and embarked on numerous adventures together, creating lasting memories. She loved to share stories of the many trips that she and Jim enjoyed.

Annie also found joy in quilting, sewing, and tending to her gardens. Annie's compassionate nature extended beyond her professional life, as she lovingly cared for her family members and her beloved husband, Jim, before his passing. Annie's greatest joys in life were her faith and her family. She took immense pride in getting to know her children and grandchildren and cherished the time spent together.

She is survived by her children, Janet Crowe, Mary (Lynn) Schroeder, Lisa (Dave) Blauw, Linda Reihsen, Tric White (Doug McComb), and Lori (Bob) Hickok; siblings, Marion Main, Monna Tarbell, Betty Marshall, and Billy Main; 26 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. Annie was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Katherine Reihsen, siblings Richard Main, June Main, Artis Main, Jimmy Main, Gene Main, Benny Main, and Jerry Main, two grandchildren, and son-in-law Wayne Crowe.

Visitation will be held on Monday, July 10, 2023, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, where a Rosary and Nursing Honor Guard Ceremony will take place at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.  A live stream of the service will be available on the funeral home website. Following the Mass, burial will take place at 11:00 a.m. at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Reihsen family would like to express their gratitude for the condolences and support received during this difficult time. Online condolences can be shared at www.caldwellparrish.com.