Nargi Steinbrech, Dedicated Hospice Nurse and Community Pillar, Passes at 89
Nargi “Narg” Rayman Steinbrech, a revered nurse, hospice volunteer, and lifelong community advocate from Solon, Iowa, died peacefully on April 27, 2026, surrounded by her family. Her passing marks the loss of a compassionate figure whose impact touched countless families, patients, and neighbors across Iowa and beyond.
Born December 29, 1936, in Ely, Iowa, Nargi was the embodiment of resilience and dedication. She was raised embracing strong family values that guided her throughout a life committed to service. After early education in a one-room schoolhouse, she graduated from Mount Vernon High School and earned nursing and health education degrees from Mount Mercy College and the University of Iowa.
Her career and volunteer work reflected her unwavering compassion. Since 1984, Steinbrech volunteered as a hospice nurse, spending decades bringing dignity and comfort to those facing life’s toughest moments. She worked tirelessly with the Iowa City Hospice and played a key role in organizing annual hospice runs across northern Johnson County.
Lifelong Advocate for Hospice, Health, and Education
Steinbrech’s care extended beyond nursing. She championed memory loss awareness, dementia care, and education on Alzheimer’s disease, emphasizing early evaluation and compassionate treatment. Her involvement also included supporting veterans’ health programs focusing on smoking cessation and improving access to medical care.
Nargi actively participated in critical medical research at the University of Iowa, contributing to studies on women’s health, diabetes, brain health, and glaucoma. Her belief in the power of science and education to improve lives was central to her mission.
Faith, Family, and Community at the Core
Beyond healthcare, Steinbrech was a devoted parishioner and music mentor at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon, where she served as organist for 53 years. She guided many young musicians, combining faith and music in her daily life.
Married to Edward Franklin Steinbrech for more than 60 years until his passing, she raised five children: Daniel Mark, Angela Corinne, Kenneth Edward, Michael Joseph, and Douglas Steven, setting a foundation of love and service that her family continues. Her joy in life was found in traveling, reading, and especially doting on her grandchildren.
Legacy of Compassion and Service
Nargi Steinbrech’s community efforts included volunteering on the Friends of the Solon Library Board and supporting literacy through programs like “Rock and Read” at Solon Lakeview Elementary School. She and her late husband shared adventurous spirits, cycling through Cuba, Europe, and celebrating RAGBRAI events.
“Nargi will be remembered for her grace, quiet strength, unwavering faith, and the deep love she gave so freely,” family spokesperson said.
She is survived by her children and their families, as well as her eldest sister, numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her husband Edward, sons Daniel Mark, and brothers Norman and Joed Rayman.
Services and Memorial Donations
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon, with visitation and rosary starting at 9 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to be made to Iowa City Hospice, honoring Nargi’s lifelong commitment to hospice care.
The family extends gratitude to Iowa City Hospice and the Solon Care Facility for their compassionate care during her final days. Messages of condolence and memories can be shared through the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website at www.gayandciha.com.
For readers across Alabama and the United States, Nargi Steinbrech’s story is a powerful reminder of the vital role hospice volunteers and healthcare advocates play in strengthening communities and supporting families during life’s most vulnerable moments.
