Nargi “Narg” Steinbrech, Iowa Hospice Nurse and Community Pillar, Dies at 89
Nargi “Narg” Steinbrech, a lifelong advocate for hospice care, education, and health research, died peacefully on April 27, 2026, in Solon, Iowa, surrounded by her family. She was 89.
Steinbrech’s passing marks the loss of a deeply compassionate figure known statewide for her dedicated volunteerism and advocacy in hospice and community health. Born on December 29, 1936, in Ely, Iowa, Nargi built a legacy that resonates far beyond her home, touching countless families and patients.
Decades of Service and Advocacy in Hospice Care
Since 1984, Nargi Steinbrech committed herself to Iowa City Hospice, providing compassionate nursing care to terminal patients and tirelessly supporting awareness initiatives. Her work included organizing key community events like the annual hospice race supporting volunteers and families across northern Johnson County.
Her advocacy also extended to raising awareness of memory loss conditions, including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. She played an instrumental role in promoting proper evaluation and care options, spotlighting an issue confronting millions of families nationwide.
Dedicated Nurse, Educator, and Lifelong Learner
With a nursing degree from Mount Mercy College and a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from the University of Iowa, Steinbrech’s approach combined professional expertise with compassionate care. She also volunteered with veterans’ programs addressing smoking cessation and navigating medical services, exemplifying a broad and inclusive health mission.
Steinbrech actively participated in long-term medical research studies at the University of Iowa focusing on women’s health, diabetes, brain health, and glaucoma. Her faith in research’s power to improve lives was unwavering throughout her life.
A Life Full of Family, Music, and Community
Nargi’s devotion extended into her local community, serving on the Friends of the Solon Library Board and volunteering for the “Rock and Read” program in Solon Lakeview Elementary School. For more than five decades, she was organist at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Solon, mentoring countless young musicians and demonstrating a deep commitment to faith and service.
She married Edward Franklin Steinbrech on June 30, 1959, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and their 60+ years together inspired many. The couple shared a passion for cycling adventures across Cuba, Europe, and America’s famous RAGBRAI events, blending family life with an adventurous spirit.
Survived by Children, Grandchildren, and Extended Family
Nargi is survived by her children: Angela Corinne of Iowa City, Kenneth Edward of Solon, Michael Joseph of Nashville, Tennessee, and Douglas Steven of Manhattan, New York. She also leaves behind beloved grandchildren, great nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ed, her eldest son Daniel Mark Steinbrech, and her brothers.
Memorials and Funeral Arrangements
The family invites the public to honor Nargi’s life at a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1749 Racine Avenue, Solon, Iowa. Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. the same day with a parish rosary recited starting promptly at 9 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are requested to support Iowa City Hospice, celebrating the organization that defined much of her compassionate service.
“Nargi’s quiet strength, unwavering faith, and ceaseless love left an indelible mark on the families she touched and the community she served,” members of her family said.
Nargi Steinbrech’s life story is a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in elevating care, compassion, and education—values crucial to communities everywhere, including Ohio readers who follow hospice, health advocacy, and family dedication.
For condolences or to share memories, visit the Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service website at www.gayandciha.com.
