Nita Veenendaal

A Life of Joy and Kindness: Juanita Veenendaal

Nita Veenendaal, a woman whose life was a vibrant testament to love, joy, and hard work, passed away peacefully at the age of 65 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. We are heartbroken, but we take comfort in knowing she lived a life defined by her positivity and caring for others above herself.

Nita was born in Des Moines, Iowa, and grew up in the Des Moines area. In 1979, she married the love of her life, Marv, at the Little Brown Church on a sunny October morning. One of her greatest memories was from this day, ringing the bell together at the church.

Nita was the embodiment of a green thumb. She loved all kinds of plants and nurtured them with the same care and devotion she showed her loved ones. Her signature joy was found in the great outdoors, soaking in the wildlife and beautiful scenery wherever she and Marv would go.

A tireless worker throughout her life, Nita’s career spanned many roles. No matter the job, her incredible ability to make friends with everyone around her was a consistent theme. She worked hard, but she always had time to share her infectious positivity.

Nita is survived by her devoted husband, Marv Veenendaal, who was the center of her world as she was to him. She leaves a beautiful legacy in her sons, Michael Veenendaal (Stefany Veenendaal) and Jody Veenendaal; her beloved granddaughters, Tessa O’Gorman and Kaia O’Gorman; she also leaves behind her cherished sisters, Denise Conner-Mineart and DeAnn Dalrymple; and her brother, Doug Dalrymple.

The world is a little less bright without Nita’s selfless spirit, but every time a flower blooms or the sun shines through the trees, her loving and joyful memory will live on.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life will be held at Tin Roof Hideaway & Event Center, 1003 North Washington Street, Lisbon, Iowa 52253, from 2:00-4:00 p.m., on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Disabled American Veterans in Nita’s honor.