Iris Jean Rattenborg

Iris J Rattenborg passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025. She was born in Carroll, Iowa on June 3, 1937. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother whose loving family meant the world to her. She stayed in touch with her sisters, brother, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren and their spouses through calls, mail, Zoom and visits. Friends were often included in gatherings at her home and considered family too. She also loved extending hospitality and sharing her home with overnight guests from across the country.

Iris grew up in the small town of Gray Iowa. After high school, she attended Simpson College where she studied home economics for one year. She used these skills as she became an excellent seamstress, sewing many clothes over the years, including her wedding dress and her daughter, Juli’s wedding dress. She was well known for her cooking and baking, which her family greatly enjoyed! Iris assisted Harold in many do-it-yourself projects, including designing a house, painting, finishing woodwork, and gardening. Working together with Harold was always fun for her.

Iris grew up in a home filled with singing and music. Iris and her sisters had fun singing trios over the years. She married Harold Rattenborg (who was a music major) in 1955. Iris worked as an editor/proofreader for a magazine publishing company while Harold finished his music degree. They enjoyed 27 years of marriage. She lost the love of her life too soon with Harold’s unexpected death in 1982. After this, Iris, Lida and Jan spent more time together, and the three soon became known as the “three sisters” to many. They golfed, played cards, travelled and spent winters in Arizona.

Her love of sports began with her playing basketball in high school in Gray, Iowa. She cheered on her favorite sports teams with family and friends. Iris eventually took up golf and joined the Sunset Nine Hole League where she met many lifelong friends.

She was an active member of HOL First United Methodist Church for over 55 years. She devoted her time and energy to the music ministry by participating in the Chancel Choir, Bell Choir, and Wesley Anns. Iris served as the chair of the music and worship committee, and she worked as the financial secretary for several years.

One of her joys in life was playing cards, especially bridge. She never missed an opportunity to get a game going. In fact, she played bridge with her two sisters and a friend only two days before she passed away. Music also continued to be a big part of her life. She enjoyed the Longmont Symphony, Barbershop, and musicals. She was a longtime member of PEO, Chapter GH, supporting education for women. Iris was active in PEO from 1983 to 2025 and served three terms as president.

One of the things Iris treasured most was spending time attending activities of her family and other loved ones. This included MANY football games, baseball games, horse shows, graduations, concerts, and recitals. Iris recently celebrated her 88th birthday. Those 88 years were full and complete, just like the 88 keys on a piano. Her life impacted many, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all of those who loved her.

She is survived by her siblings, Lida, Jan, and Cliff Shoemaker (Gretchen), daughters Juli Romero (Alan) and Jill Schneider (David), and grandchildren Josh Romero (Erica Westly), Staci Genet (Taras), Seth Romero, Carson Schneider (Katie Belanger), Kate Schneider, and close friend Lynn Bissell and family. She was preceded in death by her husband Harold Rattenborg and her parents, Ralph and Coelo Shoemaker.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Iris Rattenborg can be made to Heart of Longmont Church, PEO Sisterhood, or Longmont Symphony Orchestra.