Marcee Sidmore

Marcee Sidmore passed away in the early morning hours of June 30th, 2025.  She fought the hard battle of cancer.  However, she is no longer in pain.  Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Monday, July 7, at the Hampton United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at the Hampton Cemetery. Visitation will be 4:00 – 7:00 p.m, Sunday, at Woodley Funeral Home, 306 Central Ave. E., Hampton.

Marcee Jean Sidmore, affectionately known as “Cecee” to family and friends, was born on June 24th, 1962 in Waverly, Iowa to Darold “Doug” and Marlene (Brocka) Sidmore.

Marcee was the middle child of the family and grew up in Bristow, Iowa, along with her two sisters Mardell and Marcia.  She attended Allison-Bristow School and worked at various employments over the years.  From a receptionist to preparing taxes, she eventually earned the moniker “Copy Queen” as she assisted her friends and family with yearly tax preparations.  In 1996, she joined her sister Mardell at Christensen Jewelry as the Jeweler.  She took to training in this unique trade as she had a knack for working with her hands and creating different custom items.  She had developed this skill years earlier while she served at the right-hand of her father in various carpentry jobs, a role that was very dear to her. 

Marcee loved crocheting, knitting, sewing and other crafts.  She took after her mother and sister Marcia in painting art.  She loved flowers, especially pink ones, which helped spur her creative personality.  Because the girls in the family loved crafting, they handmade many items and decorations, which they traveled far around to different craft shows to sell.  They occasionally employed their father’s carpentry skills to assist in making items they had designed.

Marcee was asked out by Michael Pals in 1996 which led to a loving 26-year relationship.  They purchased a house outside of Hampton where they enjoyed their lives together.  Going out to eat, movies, fairs, and traveling ranked among their favorite activities together.  Marcee loved to cook and bake for Mike and would often host family members for holiday dinners.

Marcee was a member of the Hampton Jaycees.  She and her good friend Sheryl took classes in pyrotechnics so they could set off fireworks during the 4th of July program.  An accomplishment she was very proud of.  She was also a member of the “Friends of Beeds Lake” Committee and organized the yearly Omelet Breakfast on July 4th.

This past year, Marcee enjoyed hanging out with the Ladies of “God’s Flock” at the Hampton United Methodist Church.  They made various items like prayer shawls and she looked forward to each Monday visit.

As we mourn the loss of Marcee we find solace in her love, kindness and spirit.  She will be deeply missed but will be forever in the hearts of family and friends.

Marcee was preceded in death by her parents Darold and Marlene, Michael’s parents Shirley and Ron Pals, brother-in-law Steve VanKleeck and grandparents.

She is survived by Michael Pals, sister Mardell VanKleeck, sister Marcia and Michael Laube of Prior Lake, MN, nephew Myles Laube of Chicago, IL, niece Molly Laube of Prior Lake, MN, and Aunt Donna Kruse of Bristow, IA along with several cousins and her beloved Kittie Marie.