Deana M. LaShelle's Obituary
Deana Mae LaShelle, age 80, of Clinton, Iowa, passed away on August 1, 2025, at MercyOne Clinton Medical Center.
Memorial visitation and light meal and refreshments in honor of her will be from 3:00 to 6:00 pm, Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Clinton Chapel Snell-Zornig Funeral Homes & Crematory. Burial will be in Lower York Cemetery in Thomson, Illinois.
Deana was born in Clinton on November 26, 1944, the oldest of eight children born to Herbert and Ruby (Kinkaid) Wynkoop. She graduated from Clinton schools and proudly earned her degree from Clinton Community College in 1994. Deana valued hard work and held a wide variety of jobs throughout her life, but took particular pride in her time as the daytime custodian at Clinton Community College—a role where she made lasting friendships and left a meaningful impression on both staff and students.
On September 20, 1967, Deana married the love of her life, Gerry LaShelle. Together they shared a beautiful love story marked by dancing, bowling, and a deep devotion to their family. Deana took great pride in the blended family she and Gerry created, and she cherished her role as a mother Garry (Jane) Claussen, Gerrie Kaye (Earl) Gooch, and Leslie (Christopher) Mussmann and stepmother to Frank (Kim) LaShelle, Lorna (Elmer) Pothof, James (Jean) LaShelle.
Deana’s greatest joy came from time spent with her grandchildren: Alicia, Samantha, Teddy, Jackie, Jeremy, Colby, Ian, James, Jazmyn, Charley, Eliza, and Gideon. She was grateful to watch them grow into adulthood and proud of all their accomplishments.
A natural storyteller, Deana had a gift for turning even the smallest moments into meaningful memories. She loved gathering around the kitchen table with family and friends, sharing photos, swapping stories, and laughing together. She especially treasured outings and conversations with her dear friend, Jan Verdon.
In addition to her children and grandchildren Deana is survived by her siblings Kathy Hilgendorf, Rick Wynkoop, Sue Hermann, David Wynkoop, and Marcia Gillis Wynkoop, as well as many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Bill and Ron Wynkoop; and her beloved husband, Gerry LaShelle.
Deana was a collector of treasures—both tangible and emotional. She lived a life full of love, grit, and heart, and the mark she left on those around her will not be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers we ask that family and friends bring pictures and memories to share. In honor of Deana's love of sweet treats we are asking bakers to bring sweets to share.
What’s your fondest memory of Deana?
What’s a lesson you learned from Deana?
Share a story where Deana's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Deana you’ll never forget.
How did Deana make you smile?
