Jacalyn "Jackie" Kay Fandel, age 71, of Ankeny, Iowa, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, at Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines, surrounded by her loving family. Jackie was born on January 7, 1955, in Mason City, Iowa, to LaVern and Thelma Walk. She was raised in Grafton, Iowa, alongside her two younger sisters, Jeanine and Connie, where she formed the strong family bonds she cherished throughout her life. She graduated from St. Ansgar High School in 1973. During her school years, Jackie was a cheerleader, played the clarinet, and sang in the choir. She excelled academically and was a straight-A student. On January 5, 1974, Jackie was united in marriage to David Fandel of Plymouth, Iowa. Together they built a life centered on love and family. Jackie was a devoted mother to her daughters, Nicole Umbarger and Shae (Jeremy) Thompson, and a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren—Sydney, Jacob, and Grace Umbarger, and Eli, Zackary, Noah, Jack, and James Thompson—as well as two great-grandchildren, Elliott and Callen Shaffer, who were truly the light of her life. Jackie began her career at Mercy Hospital in Mason City, working as a unit clerk on 6 West. She later pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from the NIACC nursing program in 1995. She went on to serve as a nurse at Mercy Hospital before joining the Mason City Clinic Heart Center, where she worked for many years. After moving to Johnston, Iowa, in 2011, she continued her career part-time at the Iowa Clinic Heart Center. Perhaps her most cherished role was that of "live-in grandma." Jackie lovingly helped care for and raise her youngest daughter's five boys, balancing this joy with her part-time nursing work—a testament to her boundless love and dedication to family. Jackie found joy in life's simple and meaningful moments. She loved reading, going out for brunch, visiting Howell's Tree Farm in the fall to pick out pumpkins and mums, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, traveling to Northeast Iowa with family, and taking special trips with her sister Jeanine. Above all, she treasured time spent with her grandchildren. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and warmth to everyone who knew her. Jackie faced her battle with cancer with quiet strength and grace. Through it all, she held tightly to her faith, continuing to show love and care for her family. Her resilience and gentle spirit were an inspiration to all. She is survived by David Fandel; her daughters, Nicole Umbarger and Shae (Jeremy) Thompson; her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sisters, Jeanine Walk and Connie Lussier; as well as a niece, Aubrey, extended family, and many dear friends. A celebration of life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Taylor House Hospice in Des Moines. Jackie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.