Denise Hoelzel

Denise Ann Hoelzel, 60, passed away Saturday, September 19th 2026 at Mercy One in Des Moines, Iowa.

She was born November 20th 1965 to her dearest father Richard (Dick) Duane Northrup and darling mother Mary (Becky) Rebecca Bisom in Newton, Iowa. The eldest of three children, Denise was a self proclaimed ‘wild child.’ Amy Jo Northrup was five years younger, and like all sisters, would fight and argue. But Denise loved her fiercely, standing up for her baby sister if anyone were foolish enough to tease her. After her parents divorced, her mother Becky married Rodney (Rod) Paul Long Sr in 1978, blessing their family with the birth of her baby brother Rodney Paul Long Jr. Denise felt immense pride in who her younger siblings were becoming as they grew, Amy furthering her education as a Social Worker, and Rodney joining the Ottumwa Fire Department. A feeling that only continued to grow as she watched both of her siblings become parents.

Having graduated from North Mahaska Junior- Senior High School in 1984, Denise's youth hadn't always been easy. Her father Richard was her rock. She helped him with his photography business, blossoming her love for the craft as well. Denise worked an array of jobs, but always found herself working best with the public at places such as Sue Photo, GEICO, Wal-Mart's Photo Lab, BP, but none more rewarding to her than motherhood.

In 1987, Denise's life was filled with the blessing of a baby girl, her eldest daughter Christie Leigh Northrup. An incredibly confident and talented child, Denise came to understand a neverending and unconditional love in which she knew nothing could ever end. Several years later in 1992, Denise married Joshua Miles Hoelzel, followed closely by the birth of her youngest daughter Lizbeth (Beth) Nicole Hoelzel in 1993.

Even with the harsh trials of life soon to follow in the coming years, Denise loved more fiercely those around her. With the passing of loved ones, divorce, and even fights, Denise never closed her heart to others. Friends gained a sister, and her daughter's friends gained a mother. The amount of people who call her “Mom” and “Mama Dee” are hard to count. She would always try to offer advice that was needed, a comforting shoulder to cry on, a light scolding as warranted, and a safe place filled with love and warmth to come to. Her kids, whether they be by blood or adopted into her heart, she loved more than anything and was proud of each and every one of them. No matter how big nor small their accomplishments may be.

Denise is preceded in death by her father Richard Northrup and step-father Rodney Long Sr. Her grandparents Margaret (Vernon) Bisom, Reva (Keith) Iske, and great- grandmother Mabel Maxner. Her son- in- law John Anthony Cellman, sister Amy Northrup, and fiancee Clay Ver Steegh.

She is survived by her daughters Christie (Marc) Northrup and Lizbeth (Aaron) Hoelzel. Her mother Mary Long, little brother Rodney Long Jr, step- sister Laura Peak, and soul sister Jenny (Russ) Slaymaker. An aunt Linda Johnson- Northrup, uncle Gary (Ruby) Northrup, and her dear aunt Sheree Church. Denise's nephews Dylan Paul Northrup, Keaton (Taylor) Long, great- nephew Bentley Long, and dearest granddaughter Delilah (Lilah Bear) Leigh Cellman.

Denise will be cremated, a small portion of her ashes spread in locations of importance she held dear to her heart. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Thank you to the team at Mercy One for the care you gave to Denise in her final days, and to Sinnott Funeral Home for caring for her in death.

Tell Grandpa Dick and everyone we miss them more than words could ever express, we love you. Topher and Boo Bear.