In Memory of Sister Juanita Boom

October 9, 1928 – July 25, 2014

Sister Juanita Boom, 85, daughter of Theodore and Bernadine (Brinkmoeller), was born Juanita Marita Boom on October 9, 1928, in Dubuque, IA. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation in September of 1946 and professed her perpetual vows on May 5, 1952.

She received a bachelor’s degree from Loras College, Dubuque, IA. Her Presentation ministry journey, spanning 35 years, engaged her as teacher, nurse and pastoral minister. After 20 years of teaching, Sister Juanita began her nursing career in 1969. In 1979, she transitioned to pastoral ministry. She served in Waukon, Farley, Charles City, Mason City, Humboldt, Dubuque (St. Columbkille 1961-1965 & 1976-1979 and Wahlert High School 1967-1968), Whittemore, Epworth and Waterloo, all in Iowa; Wheaton, IL; Monticello and Rochester, MN.

Retiring to Mount Loretto in 1987, she offered ministry as a receptionist and driver for the community until 1993. A great lover of nature, Sister enjoyed traveling, reading and walking. In reflecting on her 60th Jubilee celebration in 2007, Sister said, “I was overwhelmed when I visited Ireland several years ago and stood at the entrance of the grave of our Presentation foundress, Nano Nagle. Her lantern flame shines brightly. I have lived hoping that I have helped to keep the flame aglow. As a retired sister, I value a sense of humor, strive to be positive, and try to keep abreast of current affairs so as to understand the whole picture of change and challenge in our world.”

Surviving are her sisters, Bernadine (Leo) Marzen, Emily (Paul) Pike and her brother Donald (Marie) Boom, many nieces and nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 67 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Theodore, Robert, William, and Vincent and her sisters Virginia Pitzenberger and Helen Oberbroeckling.

Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at www.dbqpbvms.org.