Obituary of Elizabeth Mansfield

Elizabeth Kirkman Mansfield of Iowa City, age 95, died peacefully in her sleep the morning of May 7, 2023. 

She was born Elizabeth L. Marshall on October 1, 1927 in Clinton, Iowa, the daughter of Frederika (Frieda) Leese and Arthur R. Marshall.  She graduated from Clinton High School and attended Cornell College.  Elizabeth married David J. Kirkman September 14, 1947.  They had five children together.  As a young family, they lived in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and mainly in Clinton, moving to Iowa City in 1966.  David died in 2001.  Later she married James Mansfield.  He died in 2018.  Elizabeth was employed at the University of Iowa from 1966 to 1989.  She worked in the Graduate College, the Department of Biochemistry, and retired as Administrative Assistant in the Division of Physical Education.   Elizabeth was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church.  She served as parish treasurer for 11 years and as secretary and co-chair of the altar guild. 

Elizabeth enjoyed flower gardening and was an avid reader, especially history, historical fiction, and historical mysteries.  Her passion was British royalty.  She was an excellent cook and particularly excelled at baking.  Family was so important to Elizabeth.  They loved her immensely and will miss her greatly. 

In addition to her husbands, Elizabeth was preceded in death by her brother, Danny Marshall; sister, Anna Paarmann; and granddaughter, Carolyn Kirkman.  Elizabeth is survived by her children,  Marcia (Dan Larson), Susan (John Aschenbrenner), David M. Kirkman, Laura Kirkman, and Sara Kirkman.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Jay Larson, Kate Aschenbrenner Rodriguez (Raul), Kristin Aschenbrenner, Erich Aschenbrenner, Greg Kirkman (Theresa), Quinn Dreasler (Chris Werle), and Malory Dreasler (Brian Dahinden); 5 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be private.  Memorials preferred to Trinity Episcopal Church or the Trinity Altar Guild.