Semler, Jeff D.

Jeff D. Semler, 33, of Iowa City, died at his home Thursday, Sept. 22, 2011. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26, at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service, Iowa City, with the Rev. Mark Kukkonen officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.

Jeff was born Sept. 28, 1977, in Iowa City, the son of Benny and Judy (Fuhrmeister) Semler. He was a 1998 graduate of City High School.

Jeff was employed by the Arc of Southeast Iowa and had also worked for Homewood Electric and Handicare. He loved sports and enjoyed playing football, softball, golfing and bowling and was a member of various local recreation leagues.

Jeff was a free spirit, who gave and cared for others first. In death Jeff continued to give to others by donating his tissue and organs to help those in need.

Jeff is survived by his parents of Iowa City; his sisters, Jodie (John) O'Connell of Solon and Stephanie Semler of Iowa City; his nephews, Andrew Mullinnix and Maxwell O'Connell; his niece, Madison Mullinnix; his special friend, Shannon Bodell of Iowa City; grandparents, Harold (Vel) Semler and Mary Fuhrmeister, both of Iowa City; aunts and uncles, Dave (Nikki) Fuhrmeister, Cliff (Sue) Fuhrmeister, Phillip (Gay) Fuhrmeister, Keith (Anita) Fuhrmeister, Tom (Kathy) Fuhrmeister, Janice Semler and Steve and Deb Semler; and cousins.

Jeff was preceded in death by his grandparents, Keith Fuhrmeister and Fred and Luella Jensen; and his beloved dogs, Trinity and Lucy.

A luncheon will be held immediately following the burial at Zion Lutheran Church, 310 N. Johnson St., Iowa City (across from Mercy Hospital).

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be sent to

Published Sept. 24, 2011, in The Gazette