January 13, 1956 – January 2, 2026
Julie Lynn Linderbaum (Miller), age 69, of Cresco, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026, at Regional Health Services of Howard County, surrounded by her loving family.
Memorial services will be held at 11:00am on Monday, January 19, 2026, at the Cresco United Methodist Church. There will be no visitation the morning of the service, please come into the church and be seated. Visitation will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 2:00-5:00 pm at Schmelzer Funeral Home in Cresco.
Born on January 13, 1956, in Cresco, Iowa, Julie was the daughter of Charles and Marilyn (Storli) Miller. She grew up on a farm outside of Cresco and attended grade school in Ridgeway before graduating from Crestwood High School in 1974. During her school years, she was a pom pom girl and participated in drama workshop. She also played the clarinet and piano—early signs of the vibrant and expressive spirit that would define her life.
Julie’s life was defined by love—for her family, for animals, and for the simple joys of everyday living. She married Clinton Hovey in 1974, and together they had three children: Kris, Jennie and Heidi, whom she loved fiercely. They later divorced. In 1984, she married her soulmate, Steve Linderbaum and welcomed two stepsons into her heart: Stacy and Shaun. Later, Krissy also became part of their family.
Julie began her professional journey in 1985 as a nurse’s aide, a role that perfectly suited her deep compassion and love for others. In 1990, she transitioned into real estate as a sales associate and quickly found her calling. By 1994, she had earned her broker’s license and went on to co-found Country Life Real Estate with her husband Steve in 2015. Julie made a lasting impact on the community through her work. Her clients fondly remember her as the funny and witty agent who made everyone feel like family.
She was a devoted mother and Nana who never let anyone leave without a kiss, a hug, and an “I love you.” Her grandchildren were the light of her life. She delighted in creating special memories with them: concocting “Witch’s Brew,” going shopping for gag gifts that sparked laughter-filled pranks, or enjoying pontoon rides at Woman Lake while listening to loons call across the water. She had a way of making everyone feel special. To know her was to love her, and you could not be around her without smiling and laughing. She and her daughters had a “happy dance” that they would do together to celebrate accomplishments.
Julie’s culinary talents were legendary among those who knew her. She never needed a recipe to whip up family favorites like corned beef hotdish, ketchup and shrimp dip, or snickerdoodles. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and joy. She enjoyed baking Christmas cookies with the grandkids every year, while making unforgettable memories.
Her love for animals ran deep. From an early age as a member of the saddle club riding horses with her dad on trail rides, to later years rescuing cats and dogs, each one becoming part of the family. Julie’s heart had room for every creature in need. Her beloved dog Phoebe remained faithfully by her side.
Julie had a flair for beauty—she was known for being a pro at makeup and never left home without lipstick and perfume. She loved music, especially Fleetwood Mac, which often filled the air during family gatherings that were always full of belly laughs and unforgettable moments.
Her faith was strong and enduring. A member of Cresco Methodist Church, she taught Sunday School and passed down her spiritual strength to her children and grandchildren.
Julie is survived by her husband Steve Linderbaum; children Kris Hovey; Jennie (Matt) Stortz; Heidi (Marty) Rice; Stacy (Jennifer) Linderbaum; Shaun (Kendra) Linderbaum; Krissy Paluch; eleven cherished grandchildren Katelyn, Kelsey and Luke Stortz; Parker, Collin and Addison Rice; Kyle and Henry Linderbaum; Ariel, Cale and Mason Linderbaum; father Charles Miller; siblings Jeff (Julie) Miller, Dean (Sue) Miller, Laurie (Steve) Fangman; in-laws Allyn (Connie) Linderbaum and Darlene (George) Schmitt; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her mother Marilyn Miller; maternal and paternal grandparents; father and mother in-law Arno and Esther Linderbaum; grandson Samuel Linderbaum; sisters-in-law: Marilyn, Donna and Carol; best friend Kathy Anderson; and treasured pets: Teala, Tierza, Questa, and Syd.
Julie faced a long battle with COVID-19 complications over five years with courage and resilience. She is the definition of a miracle. A true warrior to the end, she leaves behind a legacy of strength and unconditional love.
May Julie’s memory continue to bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. May you smile every time you think of this feisty, sweet woman, who was small but mighty. Goodbye for now. Love you to the moon and stars…..
The family thanks Chad and all of the dedicated staff at Regional Health Services in Cresco for their compassionate care of Julie.
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