Obituary

Vickie Mae Buttolph, 71, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, after a battle with Frontal Lobe Dementia. She was a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished Nana, faithful friend, dedicated teacher, committed Christian, and someone whose gentle strength touched everyone she met.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 PM on Friday, October 10, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Winterset, Iowa.

Born to Benjamin and Beneta Gerdes on August 17, 1954. Vickie grew up in a home that was rich in love, purpose, and integrity. Vickie inherited that spirit and carried it into every part of her life. Vickie embodied the values passed down by her parents, Ben and Beneta: work hard, be humble, love fiercely. Through that love, she met Dale, her sweetheart, partner in love, in life, and in pie-making. Together they made their home with their daughters Tara and Whitney in Winterset. Vickie and Dale’s 51-year journey together held its share of highs and lows, laughter and tears, but through it all, they remained each other’s anchor. Cross-country road trips, lake floats, fishing, baseball excursions and Gourmet Club dinners were just a part of their fun-filled journey as husband and wife.

Vickie was meant to be a mother and to raise girls. She was passionate about staying home to raise them and be present in their lives. She was more the silent cheerleader and offered the best advice when asked. She was the ultimate teacher, not just giving the answers when her daughters asked a question, she led them to search for the answers themselves and, she taught them to not judge a book by its cover. She wanted them to be adventurous and live life with intent, and she taught both her daughters to always think of others and be kind, always.

Vickie spent her career as an educator, nurturer, and teacher who helped lay a foundation for confidence, compassion, and curiosity among the many children who passed through her classroom. Teaching wasn’t just her job; it was her calling. She believed in the potential of every child. And when she wasn’t in the classroom, she was modeling what it meant to be a lifelong learner — earning her undergraduate degree from Iowa State and later, a Master’s degree from Drake University. Her excellence didn’t go unnoticed — she was honored with the Golden Apple Award in Winterset, a reflection of how deeply she impacted her students and their families.

Vickie loved her Iowa State Cyclones, a passion that blended perfectly with her favorite color — red. Whether it was football or basketball, she cheered passionately. She liked her home neat — especially on Thursday nights before the weekend guests arrived. Her sparkling eyes and brilliant smile lit up every room she walked into. She laughed softly, and she loved deeply.

Vickie had a title she wore with radiant joy — “Nana” to Luke and Grace. She lit up at their report cards, at their laughter, and at the simple joy of having them close. She asked about them constantly, wanting to hear every little update, because they were her heart. She also had grand-puppies she adored, including Winston, Willson, Rudy and all those that she now loves plays with in heaven.

Her legacy lives on — in every student she taught, every grandchild she held, every daughter she guided, and every soul she touched. Her life made the world gentler, kinder, and a little sweeter.

Vickie is survived by her loving husband, Dale Buttolph; two daughters, Tara (Chad) McFarling and Whitney (Tim Krenz) Buttolph; grandchildren Luke and Grace McFarling; and brother, Larry Gerdes. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Beneta Gerdes; brother, Ben Gerdes Jr.; and sisters Janice Maddy and a sister before her birth.

The family would like to give a big thank you to the staff at Independence Village Waukee for the care and comfort they provided mom and our family for the last 3 years.

Vickie bravely faced a long battle with depression. Though her journey ended in this life, we know she would want her story to help others. If you or someone you love is struggling, please don’t wait to seek help. Support is available, and you are not alone.

Flowers and plants are welcome; however, donations may also be sent to one of the following charities on behalf of mom and her passion to always give back: Heinz57, C.R.I.S.P in Winterset and/or Orchard Place.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com

Arrangement by Iles Westover Chapel

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