"So many great memories in the house on Perth! Ardy was always so generous with her time and talents to everyone that knew her. I am blessed to have known her. Jan (Currie) Johnson"
In loving memory of
Ardythe McDermott
August 27, 1933 - September 13, 2022
Ardythe "Ardy" McDermott, 89, of Ankeny, formerly of Schaller, Iowa passed away on Tuesday,
September 13, 2022, at Independence Village in Ankeny; following a long struggle with
Alzheimer's disease.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at St. Mary's
Catholic Church in Elkhart, IA. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Interment
will take place at 1 p.m., Friday, September 23, 2022, St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Schaller,
IA.
Ardythe Elinor Rethwisch was born August 27, 1933, in Hancock, IA to John and Carrie (Larson)
Rethwisch. She grew up in Harlan, IA graduating in the class of 1950. Ardy continued her
education at Jennie Edmundsen Hospital School of Nursing, earning her degree which set her
on her career path as a Registered Nurse until her retirement in 1998. Ardy was baptized and
confirmed her faith at St. Patrick's Church in 1958. Later that year, Ardy was united in marriage
to Jack R. McDermott; to this union four children were born, Mark, Jon, Paul, and Linda.
Ardy was a member of the Iowa Nurse's Association, Public Health Nursing Association, where
in 1975 she established Public Health Nursing & Homes services in Sac County, IA. She was also
a member of various quilting clubs. Ardy enjoyed crafts, cross-stitch, sewing, crocheting,
knitting, wool applique, flower gardening, cooking, and baking. Most of all, she loved traveling
with Jack and making many memories with her children, family, and the large circle of friends,
all whom she cherished. Ardy loved to make a baked "goodie" for every get-together or
occasion!
Ardy is survived by her husband of 64 years, Jack; children, Mark (Barbara) McDermot of
Downers Grove, IL, Jon (Anne) McDermott of New Market, MN, Paul (Denise) McDermott of
Tucson, AZ, and Linda (Martin) Aronow of Ankeny, IA; grandchildren, Thomas (Sheila)
McDermott, Jacklyn (Daniel) Knust, Luke (Cathleen) Aronow, Kayla Aronow, Sean McDermott,
Julia McDermott, Madeline Quinn, Kearney Quinn, and Margaret Quinn; and great-
grandchildren, Elliott Aronow, Olivia Aronow, Noah Knust, Brooks Knust, Aya McDermott, Reina
McDermott, Phoebe Quinn, Mason Quinn Hoenshell, Claire Quinn. She is also survived by
nieces, Claudia (Huber) Ackley, Janene Huber, Marilyn Harder; nephews, Dennis Harder and
Donald Harder.
Preceding her in death are Ardy's parents, John and Carrie Rethwisch; sisters and brothers-in-
law, Merna and John Huber, and Betty and Max Harder.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St Mary's-Holy Cross Church, Elkhart, IA; or the
Alzheimer's Association.
Online condolences and memories of Ardy may be shared with her family in the tributes section.
Tributes
"Prayers of comfort and peace to Jack and all their family . Ardy was such a special friend and we shared much laughter, many talks, and wonderful trips to quilt shows and shops!!"
"Was a great neighbor in Schaller for several years"
"Donation made in Ardy's name to the Alzheimer's Association. We will miss you every day but rejoice in the knowledge your spirit is free and you are no longer in pain. Mark,Barb, Vanya, and julia"
"Sending love and comfort to all of the McDermott?s. What a wonderful person she was and she always had a smile on. Love to all. Mary Beth (Dick) Morris"