Laura Mae Heemstra

Laura M. Heemstra, 93, passed away comfortably in her home March 2, 2026. She and Elvis Presley share the same birthday. Laura was born in Des Moines, Iowa on January 8, 1933 to Lawrence and Maggie Robertson. Later at age 5 Laura was adopted by Jess Loyd and Alice Bradbury.

Laura graduated from Des Moines Technical High School with the class of 1951. Following graduation, she worked for Central Life Insurance Company as a receptionist and telephone keyboard operator. She married Phillip W. Hall for 18 years. They had 4 amazing children Wayne, Bruce, Cindy and Susan. In September of 1972 Laura married the love of her life, Orlan Howard Heemstra. Howard shared his two awesome boys, Patrick and Micheal, now making their family complete.

Later on, she went to work for Hawkeye Insurance Company and became the first woman Iowa Industrial Commissioner for Workman's Compensation. Retiring at age 62. Retirement did not last long Laura decided to work for the Iowa Ombudsman's office until age 70.

Laura loved the Lord, her family and the many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren that blessed their life.

A service of remembrance will be announced as soon as information becomes available. Those who wish to remember Laura in a special way may make gifts in her memory to St Jude's Children's Hospital.