Jeanine Davidson Obituary in Ankeny at Memorial Services of Iowa

Obituary For Jeanine Davidson

Jeanine Marie Davidson (Buehler), 87, of Ankeny (formerly of Cedar Falls), departed this life with grace in Des Moines on February 28, 2025, embracing a moment forever entwined with her daughter’s birthday.

Jeanine was welcomed into the world as the first-born daughter of Robert W Buehler and Marjorie (Rabe) Buehler on June 7, 1937, in Sac City, IA. In 1955 she graduated from Odebolt High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics Education from Iowa State University, Ames, IA, in 1959. Jeanine and Bill committed to a life together in marriage on May 22, 1960.

Jeanine’s life was a testament to dedication, education, and quiet yet remarkable influence. From an early age, she embraced leadership and service, excelling in 4-H and holding every possible office, later earning national recognition in Home Improvement through the program. Her passion for education led her to Iowa State University, where she obtained her degree in Home Economics Education, setting the foundation for a lifelong career devoted to shaping young minds.

She began her career as a Home Economist with ISU Extension in Union County before transitioning to the classroom, teaching Home Economics, Sociology, and English at Maxwell High School. Later, she brought her expertise to Cedar Falls, where she not only taught at the junior high and high school levels but also authored curriculum guides that extended her influence far beyond her own classroom. She was a pioneer in expanding Home Economics education, welcoming more boys into the program and developing specialized coursework for students with special needs—a role she found deeply fulfilling. Toward the end of her teaching career, she spent over five years at Hawkeye College of Technology, continuing to share her knowledge and passion with students at the collegiate level. Throughout her career, she was an active member of various educational associations, including the Iowa Home Economics Association, always striving to advance her field and mentor fellow educators.

Beyond the classroom, Jeanine was an unwavering pillar of support in her husband’s farming operations, ensuring everything from meals to logistics ran smoothly, even managing the summer bean-walking crew. She was a steadfast partner in all of Bill’s passions and pursuits, lending her talents and encouragement to each new endeavor—including the creation of several barn quilts and the meticulous accessorizing of his pedal car displays. Her devotion extended wholeheartedly to her children, championing their interests in sports and music. A testament to her creativity and dedication, she even designed and sewed a custom drum major uniform for her daughter for the marching band. Her influence was especially strong in 4-H, where she worked closely with her children on projects that consistently earned top recognition, often advancing to the Iowa State Fair.

Her talents extended into her own passions; she loved to sew and took pride in countless home projects, personally painting, staining, and finishing multiple family homes. Even after retiring in 1996, her dedication to 4-H continued as she served as a judge for numerous county fairs and the Iowa State Fair, imparting wisdom and encouragement to the next generation. Throughout her life, she remained grounded in her faith, actively participating in her church’s chapel and bell choirs. Drawing from her background in food and nutrition, she became deeply invested in health and wellness, especially after Bill’s cardiac health concerns arose. She dedicated time to researching the latest medical advancements and nutritional supplements, carefully curating their diet and daily regimen to promote longevity and well-being.

Whether at home or abroad, she carried herself with quiet strength, a keen intellect, and a heart full of love for her family, her students, and the many lives she touched along the way. We will forever miss you, Mom.

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