Theresa Marie Kenkel was born on July 17, 1993 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. She joined a family of three including her parents, Allen and Tracey (Steele) Kenkel and her big “sissa” Rebecca.
Theresa grew up on the family farm outside of Panama, Iowa where she spent much of her time playing outside with the various farm cats and kittens, and childhood dogs. She and her sister could be found hiding in the hayloft of the barn. It was a perfect spot to create their own little world together, and though they didn’t always get along, they were still attached at the hip.
As she grew older, Theresa participated in 4-H, softball and CYO basketball. At school she participated in mock trial, was nominated and attended People-to-People in Los Angeles and threw shotput for the Harlan Cyclones.
Theresa was very bright and was extremely curious. When she was young one of her first phrases was “b-why?” since she couldn’t pronounce “because”. This curiosity carried into her adulthood. She always wanted to know the why of things.
Theresa had a smile that could light up a room. She always tried to find the good in people and always had a kind word to say. Theresa gave of herself without hesitation and we are forever changed because of that.
Theresa tragically died on July 31, 2025 at her home in Earling, Iowa. She was preceeded in death by her grandparents, Joyce (Dave) Kenkel, and Robert and Wilma Steele and her heart-dog, Ace (the bestest boy). She is survived by her parents, Allen and Tracey Kenkel of Panama, IA; sister, Rebecca (Juan) Cruz Santiago of Kirkman, IA; nephew & niece, Alister and Scarlett Cruz Kenkel; paternal grandfather, David Kenkel of Panama, IA; work family, Rose Smith and Laura Pauley, many aunts and uncles and cousins, many friends and her goofy boxer, Boddie.
Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, August 7th at 10:30 AM at St. Mary of the Assumption Church in Panama, IA. Visitation will be on Wednesday, August 6th from 5-8 PM at St. Mary’s Parish Hall, with time of sharing beginning at 7 PM. The Pauley Jones Funeral Home in Harlan is in charge of arrangements.
