"My Aunt Gladys was only 6 years older than I am so I've probably known her longer than most of you reading this. I remember when I had my tonsils out, probably in the late 1930s, and she came to stay with us for a few days to help take care of me! She was probably about 13 or 14! I remember the day she and Clarence were married. Seems like it was a Mother's Day. I was 11. And the memories just go on and on. She was a great lady. In the photos posted here she looks much like my Mom, her sister, who died in 2009. Gladys was the last of her generation; my last aunt. God bless her, and God bless all of her family."
In loving memory of
Gladys Martha Wubbena
September 20, 1923 - October 26, 2016
Gladys Martha Wubbena, 93, of Allison, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016, at the Rehabilitation Center of Allison in Allison, Iowa. Gladys Martha Fannie Lubben was born to Elesa (DeBower) and John Lubben on September 20, 1923. She was baptized October 28, 1923, and confirmed in the Christian faith on March 17, 1940, at St. John's Lutheran Church, Clarksville. On May 10, 1942, Gladys was united in marriage to Clarence Wubbena. Clarence and Gladys were parents of two children, Beryl and Barbara. Gladys was a dedicated farm wife and mother who gave unconditional love to her family. She enjoyed cooking and baking for her family and friends and always had a pot of tea ready for visitors. She volunteered until the age of 90 at the Clarksville and Allison Care Centers. Gladys was a faithful member of St. James Lutheran Church, Allison and was active in W-ELCA and supported her church prayer shawl ministry by crocheting 140 prayer shawls for their mission. She was featured on KWWL's "Someone You Should Know", honoring her for her contribution to that ministry. Gladys also had the unofficial title of "family historian". She began writing in a diary at the age of 12 and continued writing for 81 years recording daily events and family milestones. Ask her what happened on any date and she could tell you! Gladys is survived by her children: Beryl (Shirley) Wubbena of Bristow and Barbara (Dean) Wagner of Greene. Eight grandchildren: Kristi (Alan) Meyer of North Liberty, Grant (Diana) Wubbena of Washington, Iowa, Jami (Jake) Von Feldt of Iowa City, Jessi (Kurt) Dralle of Cedar Falls, Cole Wubbena of Bristow, Jennifer (Chuck) Buseman of Waverly, John (Stacy) Wagner of Cedar Falls, Laura (Brett) Morris of Parkersburg, twenty three great grandchildren: Lauren, Rachel and A.J. Meyer, Audrey, Quinn and Claire Meyer, Oliver and Lucy Von Feldt, Owen, Sophie, Abe and Evert Dralle, Liam Wubbena, Avery, Benjamin, Camryn and Jacoby Buseman, Evelyn, Conrad and Matilda Wagner, Macoy and Shore Mostek and Melaina Morris. Gladys was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence in 2005, three brothers: Francis, Martin and Ed Lubben: one sister, Clara Mayer.
Tributes
"In 1970 and 1971 I stayed with Clarence & Gladys during the summer. At the age of 13 & 14, they provided a great example of strong ethics in work, family, love, and respect. I had not seen them since 2000 but I know they never changed! Beryl, Shirley, Barb, and Dean, I send my deepest condolences on the loss of your Mom. She was the definition of a "lady"."
"Gladys is my grandma, she lived a long happy life. She will be missed but greatful that she is now going home to God. "
"I have know Gladys since I can remember. My mother was her sister so we spent many afternoon at her house for tea. I also stay overnight with Gladys and Clarence. Gladys was a very special lady and great example for her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and her friends. She was a loving and caring Christian lady. She will be missed."