Obituary

Loretta Joan Mathers, age 87, of Urbandale, Iowa, peacefully passed away on November 24, 2025, while in Hospice Care. She was born on December 15, 1937, on a farm in Pisgah, Iowa the daughter of the late Bernice Murad (George) and John Baker. Loretta grew up in Sioux City, Iowa, where she was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and a graduate of Sioux City East High School.

In 1955, Loretta was married to the late Danny Mathers, and together they had three children in Sioux City, Iowa. The family lived in various locations due to Dan's career, including Shenandoah, Council Bluffs, and finally settling in Urbandale, Iowa.

Loretta's main focus was on nurturing her family and cherishing moments with her grandchildren. She dedicated many years to her career as the executive secretary for the management team at Sears Roebuck. Throughout her life, she indulged in her passions for reading, sewing, Minnesota fishing with her cane pole, and cheering on her beloved New York Yankees.

She dedicated over 50 years of her life to being an active member of prestigious organizations such as the Order of Eastern Star, Daughters of the American Revolution, philanthropist group PEO, and Job’s Daughters. In addition, she has been a loyal member of Douglas Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines, Iowa, for over 45 years.

Loretta leaves behind a loving family, including her son, D. Michael Mathers (the late Linda) of Altoona, IA; her daughter, Joni Wicker Kahler (Scott) of Johnston, IA and Steven Mathers (Paula) of Plano, TX. She is also survived by six grandsons: Joel Mathers (Liz) of Ankeny, IA, Eric Wicker (Christina) of Mission Viejo, CA, Ian Mathers (Jenny) of Johnston, IA, Nathaniel Mathers (Chelsea) Plano, TX, Hayden Mathers (late) and Nicholas Mathers of Plano, TX, as well as five great-grandchildren: Kip Mathers, Taylor Mathers, Charlotte Mathers, Jesse Wicker, and Chloe Mathers. Loretta is also remembered by her honorary brothers, Larry Heisler, Richard Earle “Dick” Heisler (late), and John Heisler (Mimi), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cherished friends and extended family members.

Loretta was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Danny Mathers; her parents; sisters, Marilyn and Jeannette, cherished son-in-law, Randy Wicker, beloved daughter-in-law, Linda Mathers, and adored grandson, Hayden Mathers.

A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held at a later date (Spring 2026). The family wants to especially thank the love & care from the Home Instead nursing teams for their compassionate care.

Online condolences are welcome at www.IlesCares.com.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel.

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