In Loving Memory of Ione Head

April 1, 1937 – April 19, 2026

Ione Head, a woman of fierce determination, deep compassion, and a legendary green thumb, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2026, at the age of 89.

Born in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, on April 1, 1937, to Clarence and Ann Kruse, Ione was one of four daughters. Her childhood was marked by the challenges of severe asthma, an experience that forged in her a resilient spirit and a deep empathy for others. On January 7, 1956, she married the love of her life, Keith Head, beginning a journey that would span decades and build a sprawling, vibrant family.

While her primary role for many years was as the heart of her home, Ione never lost sight of her personal dreams. With six children at home, she showed her characteristic grit by returning to school to pursue her lifelong dream of nursing. She didn't just finish; she graduated at the top of her class, embarking on a career defined by the same care and excellence she gave to her family.

Ione found joy in the simple and the spirited. Whether she was out-bowling the lanes, enjoying a lively game of Bunko with her girlfriends, or tending to her plants and flowers, she lived life gracefully. Much like the wild birds she adored—most notably the bright red Cardinals that visited her yard! She was a proud lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers, never wavering in her support for her home-state team as well as any team her kids, grand and great-grandchildren were a part of.

To her family, she was the keeper of traditions. No Christmas was complete without her famous cutout cookies, a recipe that remains a cherished family treasure.

Ione was a fantastic mother, wife, sister, nurse, and friend, but she perhaps shined brightest as a grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children Brian & Lynn Head, Kathryn Messina, Kristine & Bill Smolinsky, Shawn Head and Keith M. Head

She leaves behind a legacy of 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren who will miss her wisdom and her sharp wit.

Ione is reunited in peace with her husband, Keith Head; her parents, Clarence and Ann Kruse; her sister, Audrey Kruse; her son, Daniel Head; and her grandsons, Michael Corradini and Keifier Head.

"A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take."

Service Information

Thursday April 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM at

Lohman Funeral Home

1681 Providence Blvd. Deltona, FL 

The family will have a tribute memorial on April 30, Thursday from 5PM to 7PM at Lohman Funeral Home, Deltona Chapel, Florida 1681 Providence Blvd., Deltona Florida.