Maggie Leitzen, 59, of Manchester, Iowa passed away Friday, December 14, 2018 at her home in Manchester, Iowa surrounded by her family.

The family will greet friends and relatives of Maggie from 5 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa. They will also greet friends after 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at the Epworth United Methodist Church in Epworth, where services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday with Pastor Stephanie Schlimm Presiding.

Maggie was born on March 18, 1959 in Warren, IL to Merlin and Ann (Smith) Morehead. She spent her childhood in the Warren and Stockton areas. She earned her heavenly wings on December 14, 2018.

While Maggie spent her life exploring different occupations like being a CNA, first responder, food service and retail, her most favorite job was that of being a mom! She took great pride in her children's accomplishments and never missed an opportunity to cheer them on! She also taught them (and others around her) valuable life lessons like looking for the positive, even in the worst of circumstances, how to find joy in the little things and to never give up! Her courage, resilience and optimism will live on in all who love her!

Maggie had many other loves in her life which were evident to those around her. She held a deep love for nature and enjoyed every opportunity to be on an adventure! Maggie had a passion for animals and surrounded herself with many furry friends throughout her life. She was artistic and loved to crochet and paint, as well as bake and decorate cakes. She also had a special knack for re-purposing everyday items!

Special memories her children will forever hold in their hearts include endless badmitton games in the yard, late night talks, early morning coffee, good morning notes to her kids, a summer-long project of building a rock planter, making injuries seem cool so her kids wouldn't freak out, and the Santa frog!

To those who know & love her, Maggie will be remembered for her kind heart, being a loving mom, being genuine and caring, witty and mischievous, optimistic, joyful & dedicated, giving & artistic, self-sufficient, and a cheerful, wonderful friend.

Maggie is survived by her children Chris Hicks (Olivia Zwierzko) of Marion, Cort Hicks (Renee) of Big Spring, TX, Cassie Leitzen of Farley, and Patrick Leitzen (Abby) of Epworth. She will also be missed by her furry companions Gator, Bosco, Zeus and Spike and well as many who are privileged to call her friend.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial gifts be given to the Epworth United Methodist Church.