Zelda Irene Gutha

Zelda Irene Burton Gutha, a woman of deep faith, remarkable resilience, and generous spirit, passed away on August 8,2026, at the age of 92 surrounded by loving family at her home in Council Bluffs, IA.

Zelda was born on October 21, 1933, in Bradford, Pennsylvania, during the difficult years of the Great Depression. She was the daughter of Lucy Bundy Burton and Lee Burton and grew up alongside her siblings, Joyce and David. Her early years were shaped by modest beginnings, hard work, family devotion, and the beauty of life in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains.

Faith and teaching were central to Zelda from an early age and throughout her life. She taught Bible classes to children and youth teaching, and taught K-12 in English and special education. Wherever she and Ernest lived and wherever he served, her life was filled with stories, love and faith-some humorous, some painful, and many unforgettable-but through them all she continued to grow in wisdom and understanding.

In July of 2020, Zelda was asked to write a letter for a family genealogy book Nadine and Ernie started putting together. This letter was addressed to her grandchildren and told them of her life and all she had done up to that point. She closed the letter by saying "...I see what a learning experience LIFE really is. It is not until the day is over that one realizes it has been a very special, awesome, (and) spectacular day. Quite a gift from God." She came to believe that forgiveness is not a single act preformed when you think you should, but a daily practice, offered over, and over again.

She leaves behind a legacy of faith, learning, love, and stories, that will continue to be shared by the generations who came after her.

Zelda is survived by her sons, Charles (Cindy) Gutha and Robert (Deanna) Gutha; daughters, Nadine (William) Parsons and Sonja (William) Shaffer; and a multitude of loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Memorial Service will be 2:00 PM at Hoy Kilnoski Funeral Home on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 with a Reception to follow in the Community Room at the funeral home.

Together on Earth for 70 years; Forever together in Heaven. Ernest & Zelda will be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery at a later date.