Darla Kae Gerdes

Darla Kae Gerdes, 62, of Monona, Iowa died Thursday, August 1, 2024 at her home in Monona. She was born June 10, 1962 to Gary and Nancy (Langford) Olson in La Porte City, Iowa. She graduated from Hawkeye Community College, Waterloo.

Darla was united in marriage with Kurt Gerdes on November 24, 1984 in La Porte City. Two children were born to this union, Tyler and Jilana. She was the owner and office manager for Kurt’s Plumbing and Heating, Monona.

Darla was always very involved with her children’s lives. She made sure they were able to follow their childhood passions by signing them up for multiple camps and activities. She never missed a game or concert.

Darla’s favorite title was Grandma. She enjoyed spending time together, reading books, playing games, and painting rocks with her grandchildren.

She liked to go camping, go on side by side rides, and to spend time with friends and family. Darla loved having her coffee with the girls or drinking wine at her favorite wineries.

She was excellent at planning vacations, researching the best shopping centers, historical sites and restaurants along the way. She was a thoughtful gift giver and enjoyed spoiling those closest to her.

Darla is survived by her husband, Kurt Gerdes of Monona; her children Tyler (Monica) Gerdes of Cedar Falls and Jilana (Dave) Stangeland of Cedar Falls; her mother, Nancy Olson of La Porte City and four grandchildren, Orabelle, Gracie, Gavin and Russell.

Darla was preceded in death by her father, Gary Olson.

Private family services are being planned.

Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Monona, Iowa is helping the family with the arrangements.

Click here to visit the Leonard-Grau Funeral Home website.