Kiersten Ann Ryherd was born on May 12, 2004, at Sac City Hospital to Tom and Keri Ryherd. She grew up alongside her older siblings, Justine and Michael, and brought so much life and energy to those around her from the very beginning.
Kiersten attended school in Alta-Aurelia and later graduated from Cherokee High School. She was athletic, driven and determined in everything she set her mind to. Kiersten attained her CNA license and found great purpose in taking care of people. Like her aura outside of work, her larger than life heart was evident in her career. In later years, she attended Kirkwood Community College working toward an interior design degree.
She carried a true spitfire personality — strong-willed, fearless, quick-witted and full of spark. She never hesitated to speak her mind, stand up for the people she loved or bring laughter and energy wherever she went. More than anything, Kiersten loved spending time with her friends and family. She had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, often referred to as a ray of sunshine. She was always put together “to the nines” — never without her nails done, the perfect outfit, hair styled and makeup just right.
She loved grabbing a coffee, turning up the music and enjoying life’s little moments with the people she cared about most.
In recent months, Kiersten resided in Cedar Falls and had begun to flourish even more brightly. While living there, she spent a lot of time with her boyfriend, Colton, who tagged alongside her for walks, thrifting trips and all of Kiersten’s spur of the moment ideas.
On May 18, 2026, Kiersten was involved in a motor vehicle accident near Waterloo. She was transferred to the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City where she took her last breath surrounded by her closest loved ones.
Left to cherish her memory are her parents, Thomas and Keri Ryherd; her siblings, Justine Ryherd (Caden Krager) and Michael (Jenny) Ryherd; boyfriend Colton Samsel; grandparents, Charles and Patricia Ryherd; and countless aunts, uncles and cousins.
Kiersten was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jim and Alice Tauber.
Kiersten will be remembered for her beautiful spirit, infectious smile, her determination, her unmistakable personality and the love she shared so freely with those around her. She leaves behind countless memories that will forever be treasured by her family, friends and all who knew and loved her.
Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 27, at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Fonda. Father Dan Rupp will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Zion Catholic Cemetery at Fonda. Visitation with the family present will be on Tuesday, May 26, from 4-6 p.m. at Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Fonda. A prayer service will follow visitation at 6 p.m. by Father Dan Rupp at the church. Boothby Funeral Home of Cherokee is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be left at www.boothbyfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to the family for a future project in Kiersten’s honor.
