Elsie Margaret Krpan Grimes

Elsie Margaret Krpan Grimes, age 77, of Knoxville, Iowa, passed away on January 6, 2021 at West Ridge Specialty Care in Knoxville.
Elsie was born on March 11, 1943 in Bauer, Iowa, the daughter of Chester and Ruth (Bauer) Rankin. She attended country school at Rosemount and graduated from S.E. Warren High School. During her high school years, Elsie was a cheerleader.
Elsie was united in marriage to George Larry “Flax” Krpan on August 12, 1961 at St. Mary’s of Assumption. They were blessed with three children, Kenn, Mark and Krystal. Elsie and Flax enjoyed 53 years of marriage, before his passing on October 9, 2015. Elsie was later united in marriage to Larry Grimes on May 11, 2019 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Knoxville.
Elsie was a homemaker when her children were young and enjoyed taking care of her family. She became a licensed beautician in 1974 and worked in the Dallas and Knoxville area until 2014. Elsie also worked for many years in the dietetics department at the V.A. Hospital in Knoxville.
Elsie was a lifelong Catholic, and enjoyed golfing, bowling, and playing cards. She loved to cook (her family especially enjoyed her chili). Elsie liked to travel and loved spending time with her family.
Elsie’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Life will be held at Pine Knoll's Country Club in Knoxville on Sunday, June 6, 2021 from 12:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Elsie's family will be present to greet friends and relatives. Chili will be served with a free will offering.
Elsie is survived by her husband, Larry Grimes of Knoxville; son, Mark Krpan (Jackie) of Indianola; daughter, Krystal Maher (Kurt) of Carlisle; siblings, Clair Rankin (Lois), Doyle Rankin (Suzie), Mary Dittmer (Germain), James Rankin (Susie), Neil Rankin (Andie), Les Rankin (Diane), and Betty Hugan (Bob); four grandchildren, Tyler Krpan (Maddie), Mallory Krpan, Kyler Maher, and Keghan Maher; also mother-in-law, Doris Krpan.
Elsie is preceded in death by her son, Kenn Krpan; parents, Chet and Ruth Rankin; first husband George Larry “Flax” Krpan; and brother, Donald Rankin.
Winfield Funeral Home in Knoxville is assisting the family.