Deana Keahna

Deana Keahna, a proud member of the Meskwaki Nation, walked on to the Spirit World on October 27, 2025, at the age of 66.

Deana is survived by her children: Deanna Cook (Ken Cook) of Oskaloosa, Jerred Merrill of Ottumwa, and Aaron Merrill (Angelica Merrill) of Urbandale; her grandchildren, Janelle, Austen, Aaliyah, Moses, and Izak; and her great-grandchild Lincoln. She is also survived by her siblings Lavinia Contraro, Lorrie Bartlett, Ruth Bergmann, and Reece Meloche; her brother Adrian Pushetonequa of Tama; her niece Jennifer Keahna of Tama; and nephews Wilbur Keahna and Gregory Keahna Jr., both of Tama.

Traditional Graveside Services will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Meskwaki Cemetery, on the Meskwaki Settlement, rural Tama, with Mike Keahna as speaker. Starting at 12:00 PM, Thursday, at the Fox Clan Ceremonial Building, family and friends are invited to come together in remembrance — to share stories, send prayers, and honor Deana’s journey to the Spirit World. Offerings of tobacco, cedar, or song in her memory are welcome, in keeping with the Meskwaki way — to show love, gratitude, and guidance for the spirit as it travels on.

Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home, Tama-Toledo, is assisting the family with the local arrangements.