Madelyn Merle Guthrie

Madelyn Guthrie passed away at Senior Suites on February 7, 2021 where she had resided for the past year and a half. She had lived at The Reserve in Urbandale for 13 years prior to that. Madelyn was born at home on the family farm in Western Kansas on November 22, 1926, the first child of Walter and Elsie Mollenkamp. She completed her high school education in Wakeeney, KS and received her undergraduate degree in education from Fort Hays State University. She married William Kenneth Guthrie of Wellington, KS on August 6, 1947. Madelyn and Ken dedicated their careers to public education. Madelyn taught first grade in Belleville, KS and special education in Red Oak, IA after receiving her master’s degree from Fort Hays State University. Madelyn was known for her infinite patience and creative approach to helping children with a variety of special needs. Madelyn and Ken left their careers in their late 50s and enjoyed more than 25 years of retirement before his death in 2011. They visited numerous places around the United States and overseas. In addition to traveling, Madelyn enjoyed sewing, quilting, cooking, volunteering, tending her flowers and opening her home to friends and family. Ken and Madelyn lived in Bella Vista, AR and Granbury, TX after they retired. They moved to the Des Moines area in 2005 to be near their daughter. Madelyn was devoted to her parents, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a loyal friend and made herself available to friends and neighbors when they needed help. She was an excellent cook and hostess who created a welcoming environment. She had strong opinions and liked to engage in political discussion. However, she was open-minded and tolerant. Madelyn was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her son-in-law, Keith Baker. She is survived by her children, Deborah Guthrie of Windsor Heights, IA, Michael Guthrie (Gwenn Mulligan) of Wyckoff, NJ and Greg Guthrie (Ayse Gonlubol) of Beaverton, OR; four grandchildren, Kemal Guthrie (Erika), Leyla Guthrie, Emily Guthrie and Jackson Guthrie; three great-grandchildren, Damien Hajj, Ayla Guthrie and Willow Guthrie. Other survivors include her brother Gayle Mollenkamp (Judy) of Bartlesville, OK and three nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by her special friend, Kathleen Fitzsimmons. According to her wishes, Madelyn’s body has been donated to Des Moines University to benefit health science education. No service is planned at this time. The family will gather later to honor her life. The family wishes to thank Wellspring Community Church, Senior Suites and Suncrest Hospice for their care and support. Memorials may be directed to Wellspring Community Church, P.O. Box 913, Johnston, IA 50131.