Linda Lois (Doeppke) Werger, 63, of Elkader, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at Mercy One Hospital in Elkader. She faced her battle with cancer with courage and grace, never questioning God’s plan for her life.
She was born September 2, 1962, in Elkader, to Gerald and Eunice (Duwe) Doeppke. Linda attended Garnavillo High School, graduating with the Class of 1981. Following graduation, she dedicated herself to raising her children. While caring for her family during the day, she attended classes at night through Upper Iowa University, where she earned her Associates of Business degree. She was hired as Office Manager and GIS Specialist at the Clayton County Assessor’s office, where she worked for 28 of years and was dedicated to the work she did there.
Linda was a woman of faith who found her greatest joy in the simple beauty of the world around her. She felt most at home outdoors, tending to her garden, walking her dogs, running, hiking, kayaking and hunting for special stones along local waterways. Whatever she did, she immersed herself in it and made every adventure, the best adventure. Her love for the outdoors was matched by her creativity; she had a special gift for transforming small trinkets into meaningful jewelry. She delighted in making meaningful handmade bracelets and necklaces for her grandchildren, each piece filled with care and love. Linda also cherished her quiet moments, often found reading and cozying up in her sunroom. To her grandchildren, she was lovingly known as “Yaya,” and she cherished every moment she shared with them. She will be remembered for her gentle soul, her appreciation for life’s simple joys and the warmth and kindness she shared with all who knew and loved her.
Linda was united in marriage to Kim Werger on May 11, 1979 and July 14, 2007. Four children were born to this union: Shane, Kristi, Staci and Chelsea. She was not only a devoted mother to her own children, but also a motherly figure of their many friends. Her home was always open to those who needed shelter, comfort and love, often welcoming them for long periods of time without hesitation or judgment. Her extraordinary kindness, generosity and caring heart are qualities that will never be forgotten by those whose lives she touched.
She is survived by her husband, Kim; children, Shane (Bri) Werger of Priest River, ID, Kristi (Matt) Leaders of West Des Moines, Staci (Patrick) Grau, of Elkader, and Chelsea (Cody) Dreyer of Elkader; ten grandchildren, Blake, Jaxon, Benjamin, Archie, Marlowe, Brooks, Crosby, Luna, Whitley and Evelyn; sisters, Gayle (Roger) Larson of Elkader and Sharon Mueller of Farmersburg; many nieces and nephews.
Linda was preceded in death by her son, Matthew James Werger; parents, Gerald and Eunice Doeppke; mother and father-in-law, Deane and Marilyn Werger.
Visitation will be held from 3 PM to 7 PM on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Elkader, Iowa. There will be no visitation the day of the funeral at the church. If you are planning to attend the funeral, please be seated when you arrive.
Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday March 31, 2026, at Grace Evangelical Free Church, 27082 Highway 13, Elkader, Iowa. Pastor Ryan Zurbriggen will officiate.
Inurnment will be held at a later date.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Elkader, Iowa, has been entrusted with handling arrangements.