Wilma Luther

On November 5, 2024, our sweet Wilma passed on to her Heavenly home. She was 77 years old. 

Wilmuth Anne Hallsted was born on June 11, 1947, to Amos and Virginia Hallsted. At 6 years of age, Wilma’s mother passed away leaving her in the care of her maternal grandparents, George and Gordia Luther. She took on the last name of Luther after her father moved away. Wilma was brought up in Rippey, Iowa.

After the passing of her grandmother in 1967, Wilma, who had special needs, was placed in Glenwood State Hospital. During this time, Wilma participated in Special Olympics and she often placed in State Special Olympic competitions. She was very proud of her accomplishments and she reminisced fondly of those days.

She enjoyed working in the community and spoke of various jobs at McDonalds, Goodwill, and Brickstreet Café & Bakery. Wilma retired from Brickstreet Bakery in 2014 and was honored with a community reception. 

Wilma came to Advantages In Life in 2013, where she finally found her second family. Wilma was loved by all the staff that cared for her. She enjoyed celebrating her birthday with many friends who have loved her throughout her life and this celebration always included her favorite birthday drink - Strawberry Daiquiri. Christmas has always been a special holiday to Wilma.

She loved to sing jingle bells and open gifts and she often spoke wistfully of family traditions that made her feel special and loved. 

Wilma’s most cherished belongings were her collection of penguins and she had a name for each one. Her penguins exemplified happiness, safety, friendship, and love and they never left her side. 

Wilma was preceded in death by parents, grandparents, and special cousin, John Luther, and a host of many family and friends who were loved by Wilma.

Wilma was a bright, pure light. Those that knew and cared for Wilma instantly held her in their hearts as family. Because of Miss Wilma, a beacon of kindness and love will forever reside in our hearts. Our world is a little dimmer without Wilma…..but we know Wilma’s spirit is in us and with us and she truly left the world a much better place.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 am, Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Adel Chapel with a visitation taking place one hour prior beginning at 9:30 am. Burial will follow in the Junction Township Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be directed to Suncrest Hospice. Online condolences may be expressed at www.caldwellparrish.com.