Jennie Pautsch

Jeraldine "Jennie" Pautsch was born on February 13, 1932, to Carl and Gladys (Eisanhut) Lee, on a farm near Soldier, IA. On March 21, 1948, she was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ute, IA. She attended Ute High School and graduated with the Class of 1951. Jennie was known for her passionate spirit, particularly on the basketball court where she played as a forward during the days of 3 on 3 basketball.

On December 26, 1950, Jennie was united in marriage to Lloyd Pautsch at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ute, IA. Three children were born to this union: Bruce, Brian, and Michele. Together Jennie and Lloyd’s life took them to various places as Lloyd’s career evolved. They lived in Ute, IA, Fort Collins, CO, and Panhandle, TX, before returning to the farm near Charter Oak, IA.

Jennie’s warm personality and exceptional culinary skills made her a cornerstone of her family and friends. She was skilled at cooking and baking, always ensuring that delicious treats were ready to welcome those who entered her home. Among her specialties were cherry bars, oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and fried chicken, all of which became cherished recipes enjoyed by generations. Her kitchen was a hub of activity, often filled with delightful desserts, card games, and happy conversation.

Her love extended beyond the kitchen. Jennie was a talented seamstress, making clothes for herself and her daughter Michele, and showcasing her ingenuity by crafting a backpacking tent for her son Brian. She also immersed herself in quilting for the church, reflecting her passion for giving back to the community that meant so much to her.

Jennie enjoyed being a Cub Scout Leader for Bruce's troop, illustrating her commitment to nurturing and guiding youth. Furthermore, her enthusiasm for activities included supporting Iowa State Football, gambling, bird watching, and learning more about her iPad, all of which added excitement to her life. She was continually active in her church, celebrating her strong faith in God by serving as a member of her church’s choir in her younger years.

As a devoted mother and grandmother, Jennie’s proudest accomplishments were seen in her retirement when she lovingly took care of her seven grandchildren. For years, Jennie cared for several grandchildren as they arrived home from school. She shared many joyful moments with them and, together with her husband Lloyd, they created lasting memories through movie viewings at home and numerous bus trips. This past February, she was pleased to fly to Florida to attend another grandchild’s marriage.

Jennie passed away on August 29, 2024 at Gracewell Nursing Home in Denison, IA having attained the age of 92 years, six months, and 16 days. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd Pautsch, brothers Tony, Giles, and Gerald, and her sisters, Carrie in infancy and Letty Schlie.

She is survived by her children: Bruce (Susan) Pautsch of Dakota Dunes, SD, Brian (Valeta) Pautsch of Charter Oak, IA and Michele (Dave) Haase of Denison, IA, grandchildren: Bethany (T.J. Loudermilk) Pautsch, Bradley (Melinda) Pautsch, Emily Pautsch, Benjamin (Shelby) Pautsch, Travis Pautsch, Drew Haase and Dylan (Baylee) Haase, great-grandsons, Braxton, Matteo and Augustus Pautsch, sister Minnie Johnson, sister-in-law Phyllis Lee, other family members and friends.

Visitation with Family Greeting Friends will be Thursday, September 5, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Prayer Service to begin at 7:00 p.m., all at St. John Lutheran Church in Charter Oak, IA. Memorial Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday September 6, 2024, also at the church. Burial will take place in St. Clair Cemetery in Ute, IA. Memorials may be directed to Thy Strong Word.