Carolle Jeanne Nelson Eidem, age 85, of Keokuk, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 26, 2026, at New London Specialty Care in New London, Iowa. Her passing leaves a profound sense of loss among her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her, while celebrating a life defined by love, kindness, and generosity.
Carolle was born on February 19, 1940, in Stanley, North Dakota, to Earl and Lillian (Vahldahl) Nelson. She is survived by her daughter, Joni (Kevin) Crenshaw of Keokuk; grandchildren, Bailey (Joe) Donahue of Hamilton, Illinois, and Daniel (Sadie) Crenshaw of Montrose, Iowa; and great-grandchildren, Conor Donahue, Rhys Donahue, Olive Donahue, Warren Crenshaw, and Thatcher Crenshaw. She is also survived by her sister, Jan (Daryl) Hubbard of Glendale, Arizona, and many cherished friends, including her longtime friend Bonnie Meyers. Carolle was preceded in death by her parents, her former spouses, her son Timothy Eidem, and nephews Scott and Michael Hubbard.
Carolle had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome, valued, and at ease. Her warmth and gentle presence radiated in her interactions with family, friends, and neighbors alike. She lived a life centered on others, giving freely of her time, love, and energy without seeking recognition. Family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, attending milestones, celebrations, and quiet everyday moments with equal devotion.
Beyond her family, Carolle enjoyed her friendships in the Red Hat Club, traveling, playing cards, and dining with friends throughout the area. Her home was a place of laughter, warmth, and welcome, reflecting the generosity of her spirit. Those who knew Carolle will remember her soft-spoken wisdom, grace, and unwavering kindness—a legacy measured not in accolades, but in the countless lives she touched simply by being herself.
After a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s Disease, Carolle is now at peace, free from confusion and struggle. Her spirit remains whole, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 30, 2026, at DeJong-Printy Funeral Home, 917 Blondeau Street, Keokuk, with burial at Hickory Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, St. Jude Children’s Hospital, or Hickory Grove Cemetery Association.
Carolle Jeanne Nelson Eidem’s life was a testament to love, selflessness, and compassion—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.