Patti Lynn Durflinger, 72, of Eldon, IA passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at her home after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2024, at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield, IA with Pastor David Bowden officiating. Burial will be held in the Eldon Cemetery at a later date. A visitation will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 26, 2024 at the Cranston Family Funeral Home in Fairfield, IA with the family present to greet friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Memorial contributions in Patti’s honor may be directed to the Eldon Uptown/Downtown, Eldon Christian Church or to the American Gothic Performing Arts and may be mailed c/o Cranston Family Funeral Home, P.O. Box 189, Fairfield, IA 52556. Friends may leave online condolences or join the webcast at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Patti Lynn Durflinger was born to Bill and Joanne Maynard on April 30th, 1951, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Patti’s life was defined by her unwavering commitment to family, education, and community service. She breathed her last in the embrace of the town she adored, Eldon, Iowa, surrounded by the love of those who cherished her most.
Patti was a devoted partner to her husband of over 53 years, Terry Durflinger. Together they raised two daughters, Meghan (Donnie) Rogers and Tara (Eric) Benson. Her love and lessons live on in her beloved grandchildren: Gavin, Mia, Samantha, Olivia, and Haley. Her presence will also be sorely missed by her siblings, Billye Jo (Loren) Burnette and Marc (Jeanetta) Maynard, along with numerous nephews, nieces, and a tight-knit community of extended family and friends.
Following her education at Cardinal High School, Patti married Terry at Eldon Christian Church, the same church where she later shared her musical talents as a dedicated pianist and taught both Sunday School and Vacation Bible School classes. Her initial career path led her to become a trusted hairdresser after cosmetology school. Still seeking to contribute to the lives around her, Patti returned to college. Her passionate pursuit of knowledge saw her earning a teaching degree, followed by a Master’s, and culminated in a rewarding tenure teaching both at Cardinal Community Schools and in Ottumwa, from where she ultimately retired.
Beyond her professional achievements, Patti’s passion for her town left it’s mark on Eldon. She honored the service of veterans by contributing to the Avenue of Flags at the Eldon Cemetery and by organizing patriotic Veterans Day Programs at her schools. Her leadership and enthusiasm were evident through her active membership in TTT, PEO, and service on the Eldon City Council. She held pivotal roles in Eldon Uptown/Downtown, American Gothic Performing Arts, and the American Gothic House and Center. Patti’s love for history and her hometown was evident as she co-authored a book documenting Eldon’s past. Her involvement extended into numerous areas. She was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan and was a supportive presence at her children and grandchildren’s events. An adventurer at heart, she loved to travel and experience new cultures. Above all, Patti was a mentor who significantly influenced the path of many young lives.
Patti demonstrated what it means to serve God, family, and community with an open heart. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and those who called her friend.
