Merna Leigh House

Merna Leigh House, 86, of Minburn, passed away on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Kennybrook Village in Grimes. A service to honor Merna’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to WesleyLife Hospice, 4328 114th St, Urbandale, IA 50322. Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Merna Leigh House was born on February 18, 1939, in Minburn to DeWitt and CeCelia (Smith) Hanselman. She remained a proud resident of Minburn throughout her life. On June 5, 1959, Merna married Robert House at the Minburn Methodist Church, beginning a loving partnership that spanned decades.

Merna dedicated many years to serving others through her work as a cook at Minburn School. Later, she transitioned to a role at Woodward State Hospital, where she worked as a Dietary Supervisor until her retirement in 1997. She found great joy in gardening and canning.

Her creativity shone through her passion for quilting, as she carefully crafted intricate quilts with dedication and skill. She was also a former member of the Des Moines Quilt Guild. Throughout her life, Merna’s kindness and generosity left a lasting impact on those who knew her.

She is survived by her sisters, Fae Miles of Perry and Carol (K. Don) Rickels of Granger; godchildren, Travis Love of Granger and Drew Love of Prior Lake, Minnesota; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Merna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob House, in 2020; her sister, Lucena Hanselman, in 2013; her brothers, Jerrold (Norma) Hanselman and Everett (Irene) Hanselman, both in 2020; and brother in law, Rocky Miles, in 1996.