Eloise Bulkeley, 18 months

Eloise Paige Bulkeley, 18 months, died Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in the arms of her mother and father.

Ella was born March 8, 2012. She loved being alive and enjoyed 18 happy months playing with her toys, watching Nemo and snuggling with her family. She touched the lives of so many people during her short life. She found her way into the hearts of all her care staff with her bright eyes and captivating smile.

The family is fortunate and are thankful for the support and care they received at University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. She thrived because of the tremendous love and attention she received from all of the doctors and nursing staff.

She was preceded in her death by her grandfather Dr. Rod Smith.

Survivors include her loving parents, Camille Dykstra and Matt Bulkeley; sister Anna Dykstra; grandparents, Dr. Ed and Linda Dykstra, Debby Smith, Dick and Julie Bulkeley; many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.  

Services will be at Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church, Iowa City at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25 with a luncheon and private burial following. Visitation at Lensing Funeral Home, 605 Kirkwood Ave. in Iowa City, will be 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24.

A memorial is being created in Ella’s name to support the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital and families dealing with long-term hospital stays.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.lensingfuneral.com.