Marcella Boldt

Marcella Marie (Vesely) Boldt, 78, of Chelsea, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on June 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose warmth and strength touched everyone who knew her.

Marcella was born on January 14, 1947, to Elsie (Dvorak) and Joseph Vesely. She grew up alongside her siblings, Helen, Gene, and Leonard, forming a strong foundation of family that remained central throughout her life.

On September 24, 1966, Marcella married the love of her life, Roger Boldt of Toledo, Iowa. This September would have marked their 59th wedding anniversary. Together, they built a life filled with love and raised two sons, Rodney and Todd. Her family was her greatest pride and joy, and she never missed a moment to share stories, updates, and her deep affection for each of them.

Marcella worked at Benco in Belle Plaine, Iowa, for 35 years. She was known not just for her strong work ethic but also for the lasting friendships she formed there. Outside of work, she was a woman of many talents — a phenomenal cook, an avid gardener, and above all, an extraordinary grandmother.

Marcella and Roger were longtime members of the Ridgerider Saddle Club, where they shared their love for horses and community. They also served together as Methodist Youth Fellowship leaders, investing in the lives of young people and modeling faith, compassion, and service.

Wherever Marcella was, she created a haven. Her home was a welcoming place where everyone felt safe and loved. Visitors knew they were in for delicious food, good conversation (and maybe some gossip), a few laughs, and a dose of her trademark compassion. She had a way of making people feel seen and heard.

Marcella’s wit was sharp, her honesty refreshing, and her presence unforgettable. She was never afraid to speak her mind, and those who knew her loved her for it. Her strength and resilience were apparent in all she did, and her courage in her final days was an inspiration to everyone around her.

She will be forever remembered by her husband of 58 years, Roger; her sons: Rodney (Tina) Boldt and Todd (Deb) Boldt, both of Toledo; grandchildren: Cody (Annie) Boldt, Caitlyn (John) Helgerson, Brody (Samantha) Boldt, Brandon (Nicole) Boldt, Tanner Boldt, and Taylor Boldt; her 10 great-grandchildren; her brother, Leonard Vesely; sister-in-law (Betty); and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Elsie and Joseph Vesely; siblings Helen and Gene; her in-laws, Eloise and Lester Boldt; and her sister-in-law, Charlene Vesely.

Marcella was a bright light in all of our lives. Her legacy of love, laughter, and honesty will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life Open House will be held Sunday, July 13th at the Tama County Nature Center, 2283 Park Road, Toledo, from 1 to 4 p.m. Flowers or remembrance gifts may be made directly to the family of Marcella Boldt.