Obituary

Kurtis Howard Shedenhelm

Born: February 1965- Passed: May 2025

Kurtis “Kurt” Howard Shedenhelm, 60, of Des Moines, Iowa passed away peacefully over Memorial Day Weekend. Born to Terry and Ruth Ann, Kurt grew up in Belle Plaine, Iowa alongside his twin brother, Kevin, and two older sisters Kim and Terri Jo. His early years were spent working on the family farm which shaped his strong work ethic and resilient spirit.

A gifted athlete, Kurt earned a name for himself in wrestling, first competing for Belle Plaine High School and later continuing his decorated career at the University of Northern Iowa. His dedication and passion for the sport left a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Kurt was a proud father to his three children: Cecilia, Cassidy, and Jacob. Throughout his life he embraced many roles, but none more enthusiastically than that of a father. A close second was the role of grandfather; he was affectionately known as “Pappy” or “Pap” to his grandkids. Children were drawn to his playful and gentle spirit. He would frequently stop over to spend time with his four grandchildren, always arriving with cake pops in hand and a cheerful willingness to play, read stories, and simply be present with them.

Woven throughout a life filled with compassion, kindness, and many accomplishments were also seasons of deep hardship and quiet suffering. Such is the nature of life- but for some, each day is a battle waged within. Kurt’s journey included the heavy burden of addiction, a struggle he faced with courage, though not without pain. His story is not defined by this but by the fullness and rawness of his humanity- he loved, he hoped, and he truly tried. He left a lasting mark on those who knew him. “You have made us for yourself, O’Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” - Saint Augustine.

Kurt will be remembered for the ease of his laughter and his rare gift for making others feel seen, valued, and loved- especially those often overlooked or on the margins. He instinctively gravitated toward the underdog, and he had a unique way of making people feel welcome.

Kurt is preceded in death by his father, Terry; his mother, Ruth Ann; and his brother-in-law, Kurt Hinschberger. Left to cherish his memory are his children, Cecilia (Ty), Cassidy, and Jacob; his former wife, Julie; his brother, Kevin (Crystal); his sisters, Kim (Dan) Horras and Terri Jo Hinschberger; and his beloved grandchildren, Ledge, Coy, Pax, and Belle. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he loved.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Iles Dunn’s Funeral Home (2121 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312). A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. at the Basilica of St. John (1915 University Ave., Des Moines, IA, 50314) on June 13 2025, with a luncheon afterward. The burial will be at 2:30 p.m. after the luncheon, at Woodland Cemetery (2019 Woodland Ave., Des Moines, IA 50312).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to On With Life (Ankeny, IA) at www.onwithlife.org/donate

Kurt's Mass of Christian Burial will be live streamed by the church. It can be accessed on service day a few minutes prior to service time by logging on to: https://basilicaofstjohn.org/live-telecast


ILES DUNN'S CHAPEL

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