Tamera O'Hara 1950-2022
Tamera DeAnne O’Hara, 72, passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 27, 2022, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Though she left us suddenly, she went peacefully, surrounded by her three devoted sons, Charles, Thomas, and Nicholas Howald.
Tamera was born to John and Theona O’Hara in Hamburg, Iowa on Nov. 12, 1950. She later moved to Kansas, where she graduated from Holton High School. For the rest of her life Tamera would passionately dedicate herself to the care and education of others. She earned a degree in Education from Emporia State University and then embarked on her 38-year teaching career in elementary education.
Though Tamera taught in Kansas, Michigan and Iowa, the time she enjoyed most was teaching for 20-plus years in the Southeast Polk School District, at Willowbrook Elementary School. Tamera so loved children and teaching, that even after retirement, she continued to work as a substitute teacher when needed.
While teaching was her passion, Tamera’s boys were her life. Tamera married Thomas Dale Howald (deceased) in 1974 and later gave birth to Charles John-Thomas, Thomas Benjamin and Nicholas Michael Howald. Tamera worked tirelessly to support her family and raise her boys. Between football, basketball, track and numerous other activities, Tamera ensured her boys were loved, educated, respectful and busy!
Tamera’s energetic spark continues to grow in her five grandchildren, Brooke, Avery, Olive, Camden and Madeline Howald, with whom she adored reading stories, traveling, swimming and playing games.
Tamera was often seen working out at the Altoona Campus, going to movies, and caring for her numerous houseplants and garden. She had a big heart for all animals and shared her affection with the local wildlife and her beloved cat, Smokey. Tamera was a mentor and great friend to all those who knew her. We will miss her infectious giggle and carefree spirit.
Tamera was preceded in death by her parents, husband, sister Sharon, and brothers-in-law Dale, Terry, and Marion.
She is survived by her sons Charles (Annalisa) Howald, Thomas (Krystle) Howald and Nicholas (Rachel) Howald; sisters Charlene Manion and Pam (Jerry) Hemping; brother John (Carolyn) O’Hara; and grandchildren Brooke, Avery, Olive, Camden and Madeline Howald. She is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.
A memorial service was held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 at Lutheran Church of the Cross, 1701 Eighth St. S.W., Altoona, Iowa 50009.
Tamera loved watching her family, students, friends and plants grow. In her memory we ask that you plant a garden or a tree in her name, or donate to Southeast Polk Dollars for Scholars Program in lieu of flowers. If you prefer to write a check, please make it payable to “Southeast Polk Dollars for Scholars” and mail it to Southeast Polk Dollars for Scholars, P.O. Box 203, Altoona, IA 50009.
(PAID OBITUARY)
