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M. Inez Hess, 100, of Storm Lake died Friday, May 23, 2025, at Wel-Life in Alta.
Memorial services were held Tuesday, May 27, at Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake. Private burial was in Storm Lake Cemetery.
Mary Inez “Inie” was born May 22, 1925, in Greenville, the daughter of Vera (Skewis) and Hans Peterson. She was a long-standing member of Storm Lake United Methodist Church, Inie’s deep faith and devotion to God guided every aspect of her life.
On June 23, 1946, she was united in marriage to Vearl “Jerry” Hess, embracing her role as a farmer’s wife with love and dedication. Inie lived by Christ’s commandment to “love thy neighbor,” a principle she expressed most vividly through her passion for cooking. Fondly known as the “kitchen lady,” she brought comfort and joy to many by preparing meals and snacks for the church member’s most important life events.
Her generosity extended beyond her church. Inie was the beloved cafeteria lady in the local school for many years, cooked for the County Care Facility in Storm Lake and volunteered at the Storm Lake Hospital coffee shop. Her own children never knew store-bought bread as her love and care was baked into every homemade loaf. She was a “mom” to many as a nurturing 4-H mentor and leader in Buena Vista County for over a decade.
Inie was preceded in death by her husband Vearl “Jerry” Hess; all four of her siblings; and her granddaughter Cyrena Stodard.
She is lovingly remembered by her children: Jerry (Sue) Hess, Cindy (Dave “Oscar”) Meyer and Tom (Jennifer) Hess; grandchildren: Clorice, Ross, Cass, Sylvia and Sasha; six great-grandchildren: Chase, Abby, Gabby, Kaden, Maddox and Aaron.
Inie’s open-hearted, nonjudgmental Christian spirit made her a beloved friend to many. She will be deeply missed, especially by the dear friends she cherished in her many card clubs.
