Denice Lynn Earlywine, 66, of Des Moines passed away from COVID related complications on February 9. A visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 15, at Sunset Memorial Chapel – 7601 Fleur Dr. – with funeral services at Christian Life Church – 9001 Fleur Dr. – on Wednesday, February 16, at 10:00 a.m.; masks are requested at the services. Burial of her cremains will be held at a later date in Osborn Cemetery in Lovilia, Iowa.
Denice was born in Albia, Iowa on May 20, 1955. She graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1973 and immediately commenced employment with Northwestern Bell/US West/Qwest/CenturyLink, retiring from the real estate department in 2012. While at the phone company she shared her beautiful singing voice as a member of the Bell singers. Denice then fulfilled her lifelong dream of being a “school lunch lady,” but finally found total enjoyment in complete retirement. Denice joined the Des Moines Jaycees in 1990 and was a dedicated member, earning the honored Governor designation. She remained an active volunteer with the Jaycees long after her membership expired.
Denice, her mother, and her brother were a tight family who were completely dedicated to each other. Even before Pat and Steve passed, Denice considered her friends her family. She was “sister friend” to many. She was always the first to volunteer to lend a helping hand, a caring ear, a hug, baked goods and anything that was needed. Denice’s organizational and social talents were greatly appreciated as she handled the coffee shop for several years at her church, Christian Life. An avid sports fan, she was frequently seen at an Iowa Cubs game or in front of the TV cheering on the Hawkeyes and Cyclones. Denice was known and loved for her fashion flair with coordinating accessories, gardening, and her love of animals – especially cats, of which she was never without at least one.
Preceding her in death were her mother, Pat; brother, Steve; and her beloved grandparents, Ray and Helen Colvin. Left to cherish her memory is her cat, Gigi Jolie, and innumerable friends who will miss her dearly.
As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Blue Ribbon Foundation or the Animal Rescue League of Iowa.
Blue Ribbon Foundation: Make an Honor or Memorial Gift - Iowa State Fair Blue Ribbon Foundation (convio.net)
Animal Rescue League (by mail): Animal Rescue League of Iowa, Inc.
Attn: Donations/In Memory of Denice Earlywine
5452 NE 22nd Street
Des Moines, IA 50313-2528