Virginia Rose Keppler

Virginia Rose Keppler, 65, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2020, at her residence in Strawberry Point, peacefully at home with her family.  She was born on July 28, 1954, in Manchester, the daughter of Clemens J. “Jack” and Joan Eustella (Nehl) Bockenstedt.  Virginia was raised in rural Dundee on her parents' farm which is now part of Backbone State Park. Virginia attended elementary school in Dundee and then later graduated from West Delaware High School in 1972. For several years, Virginia was a waitress at the Hi-way Café.

On August 18, 1973, Virginia was united in marriage to Michael Keppler at St. Mary Catholic Church in Strawberry Point. Five children were born to this union.  Virginia then became a mom and farm wife. She loved gardening so much that she started the Farmers Market in Strawberry Point over 20 years ago. One time she made 80 rhubarb pies in one day for the Manchester Rhubarb Fest. Virginia loved sewing, crocheting, baking and reading, and had her own shop, Keppler Kraft & Fabric. Virginia was a lifetime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Strawberry Point and always pitched in when anyone needed help. She loved spending time with her husband and children.

Survivors include her husband of 46 years,  Mike of Strawberry Point; her five children, Jacob Keppler of Strawberry Point, Anna Keppler of Decorah, Amy Keppler of Strawberry Point, Josh Keppler of Strawberry Point, and Jason Keppler of Dubuque; three brothers, Steve (Mary) Bockenstedt of Manchester, Tony Bockenstedt of Masonville and Pat Bockenstedt of Strawberry Point; brother-in law, David Otdoerfer of Strawberry Point; sister-in-law, Jan Bockenstedt of Independence;  several nieces and nephews; and many family and friends.

Virginia was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Andrew Bockenstedt; and her sister, Dianne Otdoerfer.

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