Funeral Services for Lois Jean Tuttle, 97, who passed away Thursday, May 28, 2026 in West Des Moines, Iowa, will be held 11 a.m., Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Grace Church, 108 North Jefferson Way, Indianola, with burial to follow in the St. Charles Cemetery. Visitation will be held 9:30 to 11 a.m., prior to service at the church.

Lois Jean Porter was born to Walter and Ola Porter on September 17, 1928 in Des Moines. Before the family moved to a farm near Peru, Lois spent the first half of her upbringing living in the Highland Park neighborhood of Des Moines. She had wonderful childhood memories of school, friendships, and farm life. She was in the last graduating class of Peru High School.

Lois worked in the Recorder’s Office in Winterset after high school. During this time, she met Merril Tuttle at a rural youth event. They married in 1949 and spent 70 years together farming near St Charles and raised four daughters.

Her family fondly remembers the delicious pies, cinnamon rolls, cookies and applesauce she always had ready to serve, as well as produce to share from her garden.

Lois greatly valued their church friendships, which spanned many years. She was a faithful support to Merril as he regularly taught Bible studies or Sunday school classes.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Becky (Greg) Abbott, Sherry (Steve) Opsal, Debbie (Randy) Mann; grandchildren, Jed (Beth) Hoffman, Michael Abbott, Allison Abbott, Elissa Abbott, Brian Abbott, Abbot Flatt, Jeff (Nikki) Opsal, Greg (Katie) Opsal, Dan (Lisa) Opsal, Luke Mann; 15 great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, Gene (Sandi) Tuttle.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Merril; daughter, Vanna Tuttle; parents, Walter and Ola Porter; and siblings, Harold Porter, Walter Porter, Jr., Ardis Allen and Evelyn Porter.

The family wishes to thank the staff and Chaplain at Bickford West Des Moines and St. Croix Hospice for their care of Lois.

Memorials may be given to St Croix Hospice or TWR (Trans World Radio.)