ducational career as an accompanist for choruses, plays and liturgies. Following high school graduation, Ursula entered the convent of the Sisters of the Presentation in Dubuque, IA. While in the convent, Ursula received her college degrees from Clarke College and was licensed as a lifelong educator for the state of Iowa. She made many lifelong friends with members of the Congregation and was always grateful for the opportunities they provided her to grow spiritually academically, professionally, and socially. In 1970, Ursula returned to the lay life. She moved to the Twin Cities where she spent most of the next thirty years as a teacher and administrator for the Archdiocese there. She was principal for the Fort Dodge Catholic School system from 1991-1998. In 2001, she retired and returned to Fort Dodge where she spent the remainder of her life. Big city living was not for her. In 2011, she married John Newkirk, Sr. Ursula considered this one of the greatest blessings in her life. They shared so many interests, especially their faith, and were grateful for every day they could share. She and John shared their home with two Boston Terriers, Puddles and Taz. Ursula also enjoyed tremendously times with her family. In 2014, Ursula was diagnosed with incurable cancer. After that, "one day at a time" became very real as she never knew how she would feel when she woke up. Although cancer made traveling distances impossible, she was still so happy when she could be with her family. She and John entertained his family for holiday meals and good times. She was grateful John's family were so welcoming. Among her many interests were reading, puzzles and involvement in Church ministries. John and she shared a love of gardening and enjoyed sharing their produce with others. In some ways, it reminded her of how much she loved country life. Ursula always felt blessed at having good friends who were so helpful and supportive as well as sharing great fun. She was grateful for her siblings. They were always there to help her moving (which was often with her career) and help her deal with her illness. Ursula was so very thankful. Ellen was a true blessing as she called every day after the diagnosis with words of support and encouragement. She also appreciated all the prayers of the Holy Trinity Parish family. The doctors and staff at Unity Point Cancer Center were tremendous. Most of all, she was grateful for her beloved husband John who loved, helped and supported her every minute of her life with him. Ursula was preceded in death by her parents, her stepdaughter Margaret Wirth, and her beloved brother, Terry. Memorials can be left to Sacred Heart Church or to Hospice of Fort Dodge.