Fern Isabelle McKinnon, 105, passed away Saturday, Dec. 23, 2017, at Legacy Pointe in Waukee. In accord with Fern’s wishes, cremation rites have been performed, and private inurnment will take place in the Bruce family lot at Violet Hill Cemetery in Perry.
Fern was born Nov. 20, 1912, in Perry, Iowa, to Harry and Hazel (Henry) Bruce.
She graduated from Perry High School and received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa in 1935.
Fern married Gordon C. McKinnon June 4, 1930. They lived in Des Moines and Perry for a few years after getting married, and in 1941 they moved to Spencer, Iowa, where they made their home.
Fern and Gordon owned and operated the theatre in Spencer for many years until selling it to Fridley Theatres in 1970.
Fern was a member of Delta Gamma Sorority, First Congregational Church, Spencer Garden Club, the Art Center and was a past board member of the Spencer Golf and Country Club during its move to the a location.
Fern and Gordon both had private pilot’s licenses and flew their own plane to Florida on three different occasions. They enjoyed travelling, including a special trip to Rome.
Gardening, needlepoint and playing bridge were Fern’s favorite pastimes.
Fern is survived by her nephew, Doug (Mary) Bruce of West Des Moines.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Donald Bruce; and sister-in-law Ruie Bruce.
Fern and Gordon had no children of their own, so her only nephew, Doug Bruce, and wife, Mary, were her very special to her.
Fern was honorary Gramma to Ayla Rachel (Joe Jensen) Repp, Ashley (Jim) Culp, Heather (Matt Orochena) Bruce and Nick Bruce, whom she loved to brag about and was very proud of.
Reaching the milestone of 105, she was able to see her great-great-niece and great-great-nephews, Kaleb Faas, Tyler Culp, Marissa Murphy and Bryce Murphy.
The family requests no flowers. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Central Iowa, 3000 Easton Blvd., Des Moines, IA 50317; Village at Legacy Point, 1650 S.E. Holiday Crest Circle, Waukee, IA 50263; or the charity of your choice. Online condolences will be welcomed at IlesCares.com.
