Lois Erbstein

Lois Braun Erbstein, the heart of our family for many years, passed away peacefully in West Des Moines, Iowa on July 16, 2026. Born on May 17, 1927, in Chicago to Ethel and Abe Braun, Lois grew up with a vibrant spark that remained with her throughout her life. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she began her most cherished chapter in 1950 when she married her husband, Louis Erbstein.

Lois' honest and often humorous way of speaking made her a beloved presence in any room. She loved the "puzzle" of life—whether it was navigating the stock market, meticulously curating her collection of antiques and kaleidoscopes, or crafting beautiful pieces in her ceramics studio.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Abbie Bush and son-in-law Dave Slade; her son, Mark Erbstein, and daughter-in-law Teresa Erbstein; her cherished grandchildren, Steven (and wife Chelsie) and Elizabeth (and husband Ben), and 6 great grandchildren; and the many laughs she shared with her friends in the Questors.

A celebration of Lois's life will be held at the Fire Creek Grill (800 S 50th St Ste 110, West Des Moines, IA) on Saturday August 1, 2026 from 4-5:30pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you share a favorite memory or joke that Lois once told to keep her spirit of laughter alive.