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Obituary For Brenda Joy Heston
Brenda Joy Heston, 64, of Ankeny, passed away from Ovarian Cancer at home with her husband and children on June 29, 2025.
A visitation will be held Monday, July 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Lutheran Church of Hope in Ankeny, Iowa. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 8 at 11:00 a.m. also at Lutheran Church of Hope.
Brenda was born on August 21, 1960, in Ada, Minnesota. She was a graduate of Ankeny High School, DMACC, and Simpson College.
Brenda married Rodney William Heston on December 31, 1977.
Brenda began her accounting career at Pigeons Furniture Store and went on to work at Genex/Praxair, Inc, where she dedicated over 30 years of service before retiring. In 1992, Brenda and her husband Rod founded Industrial Refrigeration Services, Inc. | dba Innovative Mechanical Services, a mechanical and electrical contracting company they proudly built and operated together with their son and daughter until its acquisition by The Waldinger Corporation in 2019. Brenda’s work ethic, leadership, and dedication left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to work alongside her.
Brenda was a radiant force of compassion and strength. A passionate advocate for those experiencing difficulty, always offering a welcoming presence that was both trusting and trustworthy. Known for her beautiful smile and open heart, Brenda built an impactful legacy of kindness, integrity, and selflessness. She fiercely loved her husband of 47 years, family, friends, and her many adored fur babies—with an unwavering commitment that defined how she showed up for those she loved. Brenda embraced life fully, constantly challenging herself with new adventures and experiences, from quilting and SCUBA diving to taekwondo with her grandkids, tap dancing, camping in the backyard, citizens fire fighter’s academy, and even spontaneous late-night snow sledding. She truly was the embodiment of joy, courage, and unconditional love.
Brenda is survived by her husband Rod; daughter Katherine (Dana) Baker; son John Heston; grandchildren: Madisen Lee, Madison Heston, Olivia Heston, Carson Walker Jr., Chase Walker, and Brayden Baker; great-grandchildren: Kingston, Tatum, Juliette; father Anton Jensen; brother Brian Jensen; sister-in-laws Joyce Heston and Sandra Heston; brother-in-law John Heston; sister by heart Julie Mass; as well as many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother Judith Hedin; mother-in-law Josephine Heston; father-in-law Edward Heston; sister-in-law Patricia Harms; sister-in-law Ellen Piper; and brother-in-law Thomas Heston.
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Carol Ann Fairchild planted 5 trees in memory of Brenda Joy Heston . - July 06, 2025
PatriciaMiller sent Living Spirit Dishgarden for Brenda Joy Heston - July 06, 2025
KaraEllegood sent Small Garden Dish for Brenda Joy Heston - July 03, 2025
Andrew Rockwell sent Soft Serenity Floor Basket for Brenda Joy Heston - July 03, 2025
Rod and family, I'll remember Brenda's energetic spirit when she was a teen and newly-wed. I played the organ at your wedding. I forgot that it was on New Year's eve! I hope you have many wonderful memories of her and her life. Sending my deepest sympathy. God bless all of you.
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Lacking words for the loss our world has endured.
Brenda was one of the most energetic, innovative, and talented people that I worked with over a long career at Praxair. Aside from her many talents, she always made sure I got my favourite beef barley soup from Bears restaurant when I travelled to Ankeny. She was an absolute joy to work with and I will always remember her fondly.
