ROSZELL, Rayona M. (Bagenstos) 1933-2018

ROSZELL, BAGENSTOS, TARVIN

Posted By: K. L. Kittleson
Date: 11/3/2018 at 08:34:54

Rayona Roszell

Rayona M. Roszell, died November 1, 2018, at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

She was born October 24, 1933, in Cedar Rapids, IA, the daughter of Edward (Ted) and Zola (Tarvin) Bagenstos of La Porte City, Iowa. She graduated from La Porte City High School. She married Harold Roszell in Omaha, NE on March 18, 1953, they later divorced in 1967.

Rayona was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Porte City, where she was a former choir member, homebound Eucharistic minister, and an active member of St. Rita Circle. While raising her children, she was an officer of P.T.A, an active volunteer with the Girl Scouts of America, Boy Scouts of America, and Cub Scouts and first La Porte City den leader coach, she was also active in Jaycee-Ettes and V.F.W. Rayona was also a long-time member of S.P.B.G.M.A. (Society for the Preservation of Bluegrass Music in America).

She “wore many hats” during her employment years, retiring from Iowa State Department of Human Services after 16 years of service. She also worked at the La Porte City schools where she created a school bus safety program through Area 7. After retiring Rayona spent much of her time helping, transporting many individuals, and volunteering at the senior center. Here, she wrote and directed many skits and activities. She also was a volunteer director for a while.

She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially camping, fishing, and gardening. Her other loves were art, music, writing, poetry, and woodworking, but her greatest love was her children. In 2012, her first book was published “Down Home” a collection of her original poetry and songs with a few drawings. She also had written a children’s book, some readings, and other writings. Some of her artwork can be seen around town and a few other places.

Survivors include: Her children, Kathleen (Wayne) Wolf of Coralville; Steven Rosell of Reno NV, Norman Roszell of Elma; and Cheryl (Daniel) Driscol of Dysart; three brothers, Eugene (Dorothy) Bagenstos of Colorado Springs, CO; Douglas (Judy) Bagenstos of Oelwein; and Lewis Bagenstos of La Porte City; one sister, Zoe (Larry) Maddex of Marengo; 16 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Preceded her in death are: parents; one son, Jeffrey Roszell; a grandson, Corey Adam Wolf; and a brother, Merlin Bagenstos.

SOURCE: Kearns Funeral Service