Lillian K. Schluenz, 94, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at home surrounded by her loving family.

There will be no services, and Lillian’s wishes were to be donated to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lillian's name may be made to Special Olympics Iowa.

Lillian was born April 12, 1932 in Princeton, Iowa, the daughter of Harry A. & Edith M. (Bickel) Kuehl. She was united in marriage to Edward H. Schluenz in Mexico, Missouri in 1952. He preceded her in death on April 24, 1986.

Lillian became a Registered Nurse in 1951 and ended her career working as an educational aide with the Davenport School District.  Lil and Ed had many adventures. She held the distinction of becoming the first female licensed hot air balloon pilot in Iowa, as she and Ed owned a purple and pink hot air balloon, affectionately named by Ed the “Foxy Lady” after Lillian.

Those left to honor her memory include her sister, Betty Kay Jahren of Texas; her daughters and sons-in-law, Julie & Steve Fossum and Luanne & Brian Lang; six grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Ed, Lillian was preceded in death by her brother, Harry “Bud” Kuehl.