2024 Freedom Festival Parade

Let us tell you about our mom, Connie Teders.

Connie Teders, chosen as the Grand Marshal for the Avilla Freedom Festival, epitomizes resilience, dedication, and love in her life journey. Growing up as one of seven children, Connie’s nurturing spirit emerged early as she took on significant responsibilities, babysitting for multiple families and caring for her siblings when her mother fell ill. After graduating from
Waterloo High School in 1958, Connie began working at McCray Refrigeration before meeting the love of her life, Don Teders, through a blind date arranged by her brother, Dwight.

Their marriage in 1959 marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership, which saw them raise six children and make a home in Avilla for nearly six decades. Transitioning from an office job to full-time homemaking, Connie embraced farm life when they moved to the Teders family Heritage Farm, in the family since 1878. She became an indispensable part of its operations,
tending to livestock, managing crops, and maintaining a bountiful garden that provided sustenance for their family and beyond.

As a long time member of St. Mary’s Church, Connie’s work ethic and commitment to faith inspired her children, who followed her example. Despite the demands of farm life, Connie found time to work at the polls and later ventured into entrepreneurship with her husband, running a bait farm. Amidst the busyness, family and faith remained the highest of priorities.

In 2004, Connie’s world shifted when her husband was diagnosed with stage 4 lymphoma. For the next 14 years, she devoted herself to his care with unwavering love and strength. Their 50th anniversary trip to Hawaii with their daughter’s family became a cherished highlight amidst the challenges they faced together.

Since her husband’s passing, Connie’s commitment to the family farm stands as a testament to their shared legacy. With over 60 years of dedication and love, Connie’s journey embodies resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of family bonds.

As the Grand Marshal of the Avilla Freedom Festival, Connie Teders’ story serves as an inspiration to her community, illustrating the profound impact of a life lived with purpose and love.

Sincerely,
The Teders Children:
Kay Mapes
Shelley Craft
Scott Teders
Kim Snyder
Steve Teders
Chad Teders