Audrey Kathleen Ewoldt Popp

Audrey Kathleen Ewoldt Popp, a beloved community member and cherished family matriarch, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Carroll, IA. Born on December 20, 1927, in Vail, she lived a life richly woven with love, service, and dedication to both her family and her community.

As a young woman, Audrey was raised on her family farm—Elmwood Farms—south of Vail. They raised cattle and grew grain. She learned the importance of hard work and earning your keep. These were strong values that she lived by and passed on to her children and grandchildren.

 Audrey's educational journey began at Vail Public Schools, where she graduated in 1945. She pursued nurse’s training in Council Bluffs, with orders to serve in Europe. World War II ended before her tour, and her path shifted toward sharing her knowledge in education. She attended teaching courses in Cedar Falls to prepare her for teaching country school. This eagerness reflected her strong commitment to nurturing the minds of future generations.

 She taught school at Hayes 6, Hayes 8, and Hayes 5 Townships, instilling a sense of curiosity and learning in young minds. She then entered into the business world, working as a bookkeeper for Tracey North at the Vail elevator. Her tenacious spirit led her to driving semi-trucks, where she hauled detasslers and corn for Garst and Thomas. Later, she became a familiar face as a school bus driver for Ar-We-Va School District. For several years, she served as Vail’s city clerk before dedicating 25 years as cashier at Cronk’s Café in Denison, retiring in 2001.

 Audrey was a member of the Olive Branch of the Eastern Star for over 50 years and a life-long member of the United Presbyterian Church of Vail serving two terms as elder. 

 Audrey took great pride in her work with youth as she was an enthusiastic scout leader for many Cub Scout packs in Vail over a span of two decades. In addition, she volunteered with The Boy Scouts of America Troops in Vail and Carroll, proudly earning a Wood Badge Leadership Certification that displayed her commitment to enhancing her leadership skills. She was civic-minded and spent countless hours contributing to the establishment of the Vail Heights Senior Center.

 Audrey's personality was as vibrant as her pursuits; she was known for her straightforwardness, honesty, and kindness—traits you could always depend on. You always knew where you stood with her.

 Her hobbies revealed an adventurous soul. Audrey loved painting, wallpapering, and making her house a home. Gardening brought her joy, and she took pride in her flower garden and having a well-manicured lawn.

 Audrey is survived by her loving family—three children: Chad (Carma) of Mitchell, SD; Kimberly (Joe) Reiter of Vail, IA; and Kelly (Deanne) of Roland, IA. Her legacy lives on through her 13 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, who carry fond memories of her steadfast love.

 She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Louis Popp; sister, Gloria Thomas; brother-in-law, Bob Thomas; and grandchildren, Jason Popp (of Chad) and Alma Popp (of Kelly).

 A visitation will be held on January 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM, both at the United Presbyterian Church of Vail, located at 200 Camden Street, Vail IA.