September 10, 1925 – August 12, 2025
Edna Laurel Kadolph enjoyed 99 years of a life well lived. She closed her beautiful blue eyes for the last time on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake.
A private family graveside service will be held at the Clear Lake Cemetery, Clear Lake, Iowa; with Mark Doebel conducting the service. Cards of expression can be sent to Ward-Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Ave. North Clear Lake, Iowa 50428.
Edna was born September 10, 1925, at home on a farm in Crystal Township, Hancock County, Iowa, the daughter of Earl and Retha (Eaton) Sanford. Edna graduated from Corwith High School, continuing her education at Hamilton’s Business School, Mason City. She worked at Green Mill restaurant in Mason City in the early 1940’s.
Edna was united in marriage to Merle Kadolph at the Clear Lake United Methodist Church, on June 1, 1947. Together they made their home in Ventura, where they farmed and raised their family.
Her greatest joy came from her role as a mother and grandmother. She cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandson.
Edna was a member of the Ventura United Methodist Church, a 500-card group, the Thought and Thimble Club, and Lakeside Ladies Aid. She loved to travel, taking several cruises and visiting many countries. She liked to collect anything butterflies. She also enjoyed gardening and baking, especially her famous ‘Edna’s Bars’ (salted nut bars) for school fundraisers.
Edna is survived by her children, Carole Kadolph of Denver, CO, Michael Kadolph of Denver, CO, Roger Kadolph of Ventura, IA, Nancy (Sean) Wenner of Eagan, MN; brother Richard Sanford of Yelm, WA; grandchildren, Clint (Ashlee) Kadolph of Kentfield, CA, Cody Kadolph, of Chicago, IL; great grandson Cooper Kadolph, several nieces and nephews, and extended family members.
Edna is preceded in death by her parents, husband Merle, stillborn daughter Julie, sister Bonnie Blevins, daughter-in-law Kathi Kadolph, and sister-in-law Shirley Sanford.
Edna’s family is grateful for the assistance provided by Sandy Dillavou in her later years, and for the caring and attentive staff at Oakwood Care Center and St. Croix Hospice staff for all of their support helping make her life comfortable.
Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Ave North Clear Lake, Iowa 50428.