Tracy Ann Deets

Tracy Ann Deets, 57, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, aunt and so much more to so many, passed away due to COVID on Friday, February 4, 2021. Born on June 24, 1964 in Hackensack, NJ, she was the daughter of Arlene Schantz and the late Frank Russo. Tracy grew up in New Jersey and lived in Iowa and South Carolina. Before retiring to focus on her family, Tracy had a 20 year career as an accountant in the Reinsurance industry. Tracy and James first met at a business conference where Tracy's company was a client of James' company. She was a dedicated mother to her three children supporting their school, sports and social activities. As a PTO leader and prolific volunteer, Tracy was recognized with the Iowa Governor's Volunteer award. Tracy had a very strong religious faith and was passionate about sharing her faith as a church member, Sunday School teacher, small group leader, volunteer and doing whatever was needed. Blythewood Presbyterian Church, leaders, members and people were exceptionally close to her heart. Left to cherish her memory is her husband of 17 years, James Deets; children, Ryan VanSplinter (Sara), Christina Deets, and Matthew Deets; mother, Arlene Schantz (Don); brothers, Hal Russo (Sharon) and Glenn Russo (Nancy); stepmother, Joan Regan; father in law, Jim Deets (Paula); mother in law, Jane Deets; sisters in law, Sandy Silver (Jim) and Amy Klotz (Tony); as well as numerous other beloved relatives. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society - www.lls.org, Camp Kesem - www.kesem.org, as well as registering with Be The Match - bethematch.org, to be a potential bone marrow donor. As a Leukemia survivor, Tracy appreciated her Be The Match donor from the UK beyond what words could describe. Being a Bone Marrow Donor is as easy as giving blood. Nothing more. Tracy's family would also ask you to do the right things to keep yourself, your loved ones and your community safe from COVID. Tracy's wishes to be cremated and not have a funeral service will be honored. However, she did ask for a party. A virtual Celebration of Life gathering is being planned and will be communicated to family, friends and all those she touched so deeply.