Karla Jean Parsley of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away peacefully with her beloved husband by her side on Monday, June 15, 2026. At the age of 86, Karla’s journey on this earth was marked by love, dedication, and cherished memories that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Born on February 17, 1940, in Cedar Falls, Iowa, Karla was the daughter of Carl and Helen (Rindels) Danner. She grew up in Cedar Falls and attended Cedar Falls High School, where the roots of her strong character and warm heart were first nurtured. Early in life, Karla entered into marriage and was blessed with four children, shaping her role as a mother and caregiver despite the complexities that followed.

Life led Karla to a wonderful new chapter in late 1977 when, while sharing joyful moments with friends at the Round Up Bar, she met Larry Parsley—the love of her life. Their bond grew, and on May 18, 1979, they were united in marriage by a Justice of the Peace, celebrating with a heartfelt reception at the AMVETS in Evansdale. Their union brought together a blended family of six children—Larry’s two and Karla’s four—a blended family that Karla embraced with open arms and an abundance of love. Over the next 47 years, their partnership stood as a testament to enduring love and companionship.

Karla’s spirit was equally vibrant in her professional life, where in the 1990s she devoted 25 years of service to A-to-Z daycare. Her commitment to nurturing and caring for others extended beyond her own family to countless children whose growth and joy she helped foster before retiring.

Beyond work, Karla’s passions reflected her gentle and home-loving nature. Together with Larry, she explored many destinations—from the majestic Niagara Falls to the scenic landscapes of North Carolina and West Virginia. Her home was her sanctuary, a place where she found joy in cooking, crocheting intricate patterns, and losing herself in the world of books.

Karla’s family was the heart of her life. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Larry, of Waterloo; her sons Randy Akers and Scott (Lynn)Akers, both of Waterloo; Kirk Parsley and his wife Brandy of Arizona; and her daughters, Lori Bienfang and her husband Mark of Grundy Center, and Christy Parsley-Sherman and her husband Cody of Texas. Her legacy continues through her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren—the countless seeds of love and life she planted in her family’s generations.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Helen Danner; her son Terry Akers; her brother Jerry Danner; and her sister Betty Edgerley.

Though the world has lost a remarkable woman whose kindness and warmth were as abundant as her love, those who had the privilege to know Karla Jean Parsley will forever carry the light she brought into their lives. A celebration of her life will be held at a future date, honoring the profound impact she had on all who loved her.

Karla’s story is one of resilience, devotion, and unwavering love—a beautiful chapter closed but never forgotten. In remembering her, may we find comfort in the memories she gifted and the example she set for living with grace and compassion.