Lensing-Coralville Obituaries

Introduction to Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home

Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home, located at 210 Holiday Road, Coralville, IA, 52241, is a trusted and compassionate funeral service provider that has been serving the Coralville community for years. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to helping families navigate the most difficult of times, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home has established itself as a beacon of hope and support in the face of loss.

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The team at Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home understands that losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences we can face. That's why they are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to each and every family they serve. From the moment you walk through their doors, you'll be greeted with warmth, empathy, and a deep understanding of your needs.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Debbie Lynn Bryant - July 31, 1957 - May 14, 2024

Departed: 05/14/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Debbie Bryant, 66, of Coralville, passed away May 14, 2024 at her residence.

Visitation will be held from 11-1:00 pm on Friday, May 24, 2024 at Lensing’s Oak Hill in Coralville. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m. Private interment will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Debbie was born on July 31, 1957 in Muscatine, Iowa to Wesley and Velma (Becker) Wheeler.

After graduating from Louisa-Muscatine High School, she went on to work at the Hygienic Laboratory at the University of Iowa. It was there that she met her husband, John Bryant. The couple married on June 12, 1976 at Danforth Chapel and to this union, two children were born. Following retirement from the University of Iowa, Debbie worked at Colonial Lanes in the kitchen. She loved the atmosphere and especially serving up burgers to some of her favorite people!

Debbie was an avid bowler. She participated in bowling league for many, many years. She often traveled and played tournaments in Las Vegas and Reno…recently ranking 44th in the nation. She enjoyed volunteering at children’s bowling tournaments, camping and RVing with her husband, John and spending time with her family and friends.

Debbie is survived by her sons: Jason (Cynthia) Bryant and Stephen Bryant; grandchildren: Trevor and Lana Bryant as well as siblings: Faye Wheeler, Michael Wheeler, Carol (Terry) Gillette and Andrew Wheeler. She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, John in 2022.

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John A Gross - April 25, 1943 - May 12, 2024

Departed: 05/12/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: John Arthur Gross, 81, of Iowa City Iowa died peacefully May 12, 2024 after a long illness.

John was born on April 25, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa to Arthur and Loretta (Schmitt) Gross. After graduating from Wahlert High School he served in the US Army before moving to Iowa City to attend the University of Iowa where he earned a degree in business and the heart of Carolyn Woolley with whom he shared 51 years of marriage. Together they raised two children, Jason and Heather, and ran their business, retiring together in 2008.

Through his mentorship at Technigraphics and his dedication to the community, John leaves a lasting impact on so many. He was a dedicated Scout leader, believing that all young people deserve the opportunities, guidance, and experiences scouting provides. John was a member of Rotary and Kiwanis and volunteered on trips to Guatemala with a group providing surgery for cleft lip and cleft palate. We will be reminded of John every time we see the little libraries that he helped build and fill with free books, sharing his love of reading.

John was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying many canoeing trips to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota with family and his beloved paddling buddies or just fishing and paddling around the pond with his grandchildren. Beyond his love of outdoors and building beautiful furniture, John had a true passion for bad puns and dad jokes, for which he had a unique talent.

We ask that you honor John’s memory through a donation of your time to your community.

He is survived by his Son, Jason (Angela) Gross of Brooklyn Center, MN, daughter Heather (Jeff) Hammer of Fort Meade, MD, grandchildren Caroline Hammer and Lucas Gross, brothers Patrick Gross of Racket, MO, Thomas (Jeri) Gross of East Dubuque, IL, and Michael (Sandra) Gross of Dubuque, IA, sisters Linda of East Dubuque, IL, and Deborah (Tom) Slater of Benton, WI, and many nieces and nephews that he adored.

John was preceded in death by his wife Carolyn, sister Sarah Sue, brother Richard and his parents.

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Amy Katherine Neel - May 21, 1976 - May 05, 2024

Departed: 05/05/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Amy Neel, 47, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on May 5, 2024.

Amy was born in Cedar Rapids to Daniel Neel and Priscilla Sackett on May 21, 1976.

Following graduation from Linn-Mar High School, Amy attended Kirkwood Community College where she received her associate degree in graphic design. After college, Amy moved to Austin, Texas and worked her way up to become the store manager of a successful tuxedo rental company. After 16 years, Amy moved back to Iowa and worked as a night auditor for a local hotel for the past six years.

In her spare time, Amy enjoyed traveling, playing cards and video games and was a self-proclaimed “foodie.” She always looked forward to trying new recipes and new restaurants.

Amy is survived by her mother, Priscilla Sackett (Mike Nicholls); father, Daniel (Carol) Neel; brother, Steve Neel as well as nephews: Andrew, Caleb, David and Aaron Neel and nieces: Emma and Elaine Brustkern. She was preceded in death by her sister-in-law, Katie Neel. At this time, cremation has been accorded and no services are planned. Memorials may be made to the Iowa Donor Network and online condolences may be shared at www.lensingfuneral.com

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James (Jim) White - August 03, 1941 - April 23, 2024

Departed: 04/23/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: James (Jim) Joseph White died peacefully with family at his side at Mease Countryside Hospital in Clearwater, Florida on Tuesday April 23, 2024.

The family will greet friends from 4:00 - 7:00 PM on Friday May 17, 2024 at Lensing’s Oak Hill (210 Holiday Rd, Coralville, IA 52241). A private graveside service will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery in Iowa City. All are welcome to a Celebration of Life at “The Cottage,” 121 Taft Speedway in Iowa City, on Saturday, May 18 starting at 3:30 PM.

Jim was born on August 3, 1941 to William and Elizabeth (Tamlin) White. After graduating in the last class of students at Loras Academy in Dubuque, Iowa; Jim furthered his education at Loras College (Dubuque) and the University of Iowa. Jim earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and History, a Master of the Arts in English, and a PhD in Educational Administration all from the University of Iowa.

While an undergraduate, Jim met and married his wife Mary Etta (Chopek) White. Together they had five children. Jim walked with and cared for Mary Etta (2000) and later his partner Susan Fahey (2017) during extended battles with cancer. Jim also was a cancer survivor.

Jim was an active and creative educational professional throughout his career as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Jim was especially fond of his time teaching and coaching at Iowa City High School. Jim was an avid genealogist throughout his life and only recently deciphered his father William’s family of origin. Jim spent much of his retirement planning for and implementing the rebuild and curation of “The Cottage” in Iowa City, where he has showcased his compilation of family “treasures”.

Jim was a diehard and at times disgruntled sports fan. Jim could often be found supporting his children and grandchildren while they were either playing or coaching on the diamond, mat, court, golf course, or football field.

Jim was predeceased by his wife Mary Etta (1942-2000) and his partner Susan Fahey (1942-2017), as well as his parents William and Elizabeth, his sisters Betty Ann, Joan, and Rosemary.

Jim is survived by his children and their spouses James Anthony (Iowa City; Erin), Stephen Edward (Fort Wayne, IN; Julie), Michael Lee (Chapel Hill, NC; Rachelle), Timothy John (Longmont, CO; Jaymie), and Mary Elizabeth (White) Wilson (Chicago, IL; Ken) and his siblings Carole and William (Billy). Jim was a proud grandfather to Brett Anthony, Brady Michael, Austin James, Ryley Joseph, Rebecca Lee, Timothy Michael, Matthew Joseph, Avery Rebekah, Micah John, Beckett James, Henry Joseph, and Casey Aaron.

In Jim's memory, memorial donations can be made to the Archdiocese of Chicago Archives Department, whom generously donated their time to Jim's genealogy searches. Cards and donations can be sent to The Family of Jim White, PO Box 167, Iowa City, Iowa, 52244.

A website created by his family has been created and can be viewed at https://everloved.com/life-of/james-joseph-white/?flow=201.

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Michael Kattchee - April 13, 1932 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Michael Kattchee, longtime resident of Johnson County, passed away at his home in Coralville, Iowa on Saturday, April 20, 2024. He was 92. Mike lived a full and fascinating life, from his childhood in Europe, to his service in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, to his decades of public service, including sixteen years as mayor of Coralville, and as a dedicated family man. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to so many.

Mike was born in Kaunas, Lithuania on April 13, 1932, the son of Tatiana and Victor Kattchee. The Kattchee Family was forced to flee their home in 1940 due to Stalin's invasion of the Baltic states. After months in Polish refugee camps, the family settled in Munich, Germany, where they survived the daily aerial bombings of World War II. Mike learned early the values of courage and perseverance, which he would hold throughout his life.

In 1950, Mike and his family immigrated to the United States in search of opportunity. They arrived in Iowa City at the home of their distant relatives, the Leo Kadghin Family. Mike immediately began work at Bob's Radio on Muscatine Avenue. He was drafted and served three years in the Army Signal Corps in Japan. In Tokyo, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1953. He returned to Iowa and was employed by Collins Radio Company in Cedar Rapids. He enrolled at the University of Iowa, where he graduated with a degree in Mathematics in 1959.

Mike met Dolores Salasek, the love of his life, at a square dance in Cedar Rapids, and they were married at University of Iowa’s Danforth Chapel in 1958. During their sixty-five years of marriage, their unconditional love inspired so many who knew them. Mike and Dolores enjoyed dancing at the Moose Lodge, attending programs at Hancher Auditorium, cheering on the Hawkeyes, spending time at their farms, and traveling near and far, especially on road trips in their RV. They cherished time spent at their river house along the Mississippi. On Saturday evenings, Mike could be found enjoying the Lawrence Welk Show on PBS. Above all, Mike was devoted to his family, graciously supporting his children and grandchildren in their academic, artistic, and athletic endeavors.

Hard-working and self-motivated, Mike was a man of many talents. In the 1960s, he built his house on 14th Avenue where he raised his family. An engineer by trade, Mike owned and operated Mike’s Standard Station on Highway 6 in Coralville. He also was chief engineer and plant superintendent at Hunter Manufacturing Company, eventually becoming the owner. After selling his business, he bought land and fulfilled his dream of farming and owning horses. St. Thomas More Church and the Coralville Youth Sports Park now occupy the site of one of his farms. Mike returned to the University of Iowa and received his teaching certificate. He became a substitute teacher in the Iowa City Community School District, delighting many students. A career in real estate completed his working days. In 1966 Mike was elected to the Coralville City Council. He served as a council member for ten years before being elected mayor in 1977. As mayor, Mike led Coralville through some of its greatest expansion and development. His vision and commitment to infrastructure helped provide the future of growth for Coralville. During his sixteen-year tenure, Mayor Kattchee saw the building of the new library, fire station, city hall, and recreation center. He was also credited as instrumental in the development of the UI Oakdale Research Park, the upgrades of the Coralville Wastewater Plant, as well as the location of the Rockwell Collins facility in Coralville. He hired Coralville’s first city administrator and started the city’s recycling program. A humorous and compelling public speaker, it was said that Mike “had never met a podium he didn’t like.”

Mike served on countless committees and organizations, including the Coralville Planning and Zoning Commission, the East Central Iowa Council of Governments, the Southeast Iowa Municipal League, the Johnson County Council of Governments, the Johnson County Regional Planning Commission, the Iowa City Senior Center Commission, the Johnson County Historical Society, and the Johnson County Democrats. He was an active member of the Coralville Optimist Club, the Coralville American Legion, the Coralville Chamber of Commerce, the Masonic Lodge, the Farm Bureau, and the Coralville United Methodist Church.

Mike will be remembered for his sharp intellect and dry wit. Mike was an excellent storyteller, captivating with tales from his early years. He was a man who was seemingly good at everything he put his mind to, a man who made a lasting impact on all who knew him. We remember Mike’s incredible achievements and thank him for teaching us to work hard and serve generously. His love and dedication will continue to inspire us every day.

Michael is survived by his loving wife, Dolores; their children, Lori (Bill) Ortega of Winona, MN; Lisa Kattchee of Coralville; Michelle Kattchee Sirois of Denver, CO; Karl (Patricia) Kattchee of La Crosse, WI, and Linda Walsh of Ft. Collins, CO; grandchildren, Sarah and Ryan Ortega; Alec, Marissa, and Michaela Sirois; Viktor and Gabe Kattchee; Melissa Freeman, Nathaniel, Mercedes, and Shayna Walsh; and two great-grandchildren. Michael was preceded in death by his parents, brother Nicholas, and sister Maria.

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Cathleen Anne O'Connor - January 20, 1963 - April 19, 2024

Departed: 04/19/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Cathleen “Cathy” Anne O’Connor, 61, of Coralville, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, April 19th.

There will be a private burial in Iowa City and a Celebration of Life Service in St. Louis, MO this summer.

Cathy was born, on January 20th, 1963, in Palo Alto, CA to Connie L. (McCall) and Craig D. O’Connor. The family soon moved back to the Iowa City/Coralville area, where Cathy grew up.

Cathy graduated from West High School, Kirkwood Community College, and received a BA in Accounting from The University of Arizona, Tucson. She then became a CPA and enjoyed many years working in Tucson, Cedar Rapids, and most recently in St. Louis, MO. Cathy was previously married to Lyn Borchert of North Liberty.

Cathy will be remembered for her love of family. She treasured the time spent with each person, especially with her nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephew. Cathy was a world traveler. She visited 36 different countries with various family members, friends, and work colleagues. Cathy’s favorite destination was London, England, and visiting Buckingham Palace.

Cathy loved dancing and she was an active member in the weekly St. Louis West Coast Swing Dance Club. In her free time, she enjoyed teaching Zumba and Barre classes in St. Louis. She enjoyed taking daily walks, especially at the Missouri Botanical Garden. Cathy was an active supporter of the American Cancer Society and the Humane Society.

The family wishes to extend their appreciation to Dr. Muhammad Furqan, nurse Keri Mercer, and the entire team at the UIHC Holden Cancer Center for their excellent care and support.

Cathy is survived by her mother, Connie L. McCall; sisters, Teresa (Galen) Schneider and Tara O’Connor; brothers, Michael (Lisa) O’Connor; Sean O’Connor, and Ryan O’Connor. She is also survived by nieces, Emily (Ryne) Schwenke and children Sawyer, Hattie, and Kayden, Kelsey (Joe) Tranmer, and Megan Schneider; nephews, Matthew Schneider, Nate O’Connor, and Quentin O’Connor. She is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, and brother, Craig D. O’Connor.

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Alice Fuhrmeister - March 16, 1926 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Alice Fuhrmeister, 98, of Iowa City passed away on April 8, 2024.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Iowa City. Visitation will be Monday, April 15, 2024 from 4 to 7 PM at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service where a vigil service will be held at 6:30 PM. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Iowa City followed by a lunch at the church.

Alice was born on March 16, 1926 in Johnson County to Charles and Anna (Kling) Hahn. She graduated from University High School in Iowa City. Alice married Paul Fuhrmeister on January 22, 1947 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Iowa City. Together, they had three children, John, Jim and Lola.

Alice took immense pride in being a farmer’s wife and especially enjoyed caring for the lambs, and chickens. She spent a lot of time canning and enjoyed her time in the garden. In addition to helping her husband on the farm, Alice also worked as a Physical Therapy Aid at Mercy Hospital for several years until retiring.

She enjoyed playing cards, dancing and traveling, but most important to Alice was her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She and Paul were active members of Farm Bureau and spent time as weather spotters for National Weather Service. Alice was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, and a former member of the Eagles Activity Club.

Survivors include her three children, John Fuhrmeister of Iowa City, Jim (Cary) Fuhrmeister of Salem, OR, and Lola (Terry) Ruff of Iowa City, five grandchildren Amy (Jerry) LaGrange, Lindsey (Dan) Reimer, Joanna (John) Fletcher, Jennifer (Wim) Rumping, and Christine (Corey) Muldoon, eight great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Alice was preceded in death by her husband Paul in 2011, daughter-in-law Dianna Fuhrmeister, grandson Matt Fuhrmeister, three brothers Herb, Fred, Charles, and four sisters Charlotte, Florence, Catherine, and Rose.

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Katheryn Homan Walden - March 21, 1931 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Katheryn Homan Walden of Coralville, Iowa, died Sunday, April 7, 2024, at University Hospital in Iowa City following a heart attack. She had turned 93 on March 21.

Katheryn spent most of her life in Benton, Arkansas, where she married Gene Walden in 1951 and raised three daughters. She graduated from Benton High School and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and was a member of Phi Kappa Phi honor society.

She moved to Coralville in 2012 following Gene’s death. There she joined the University Club, playing bunco and learning poker. She had an amazing view of Brown Deer Golf Course outdoors and enjoyed watching the golfers from her balcony unless their language was inappropriate. She also enjoyed Facebook, where she followed the daily activities of her Arkansas friends and family and Niloak pottery news. She remained famous for her baked desserts, immaculate old-school handwriting, and affection for a cold Diet Coke over crushed ice. She was witty and very Southern.

She is survived by her brother, Jack (Jacquelyn) Homan and a half sister, Jonell Homan of Benton, Arkansas; two half brothers, Bill Wilson of Rossland, British Columbia, and Robert Homan, of North Little Rock, Arkansas. Her daughter, Kathy Walden lives in Santa Rosa, California. A daughter and son-in-law, Patti Walden and Siroos Shirazi, M.D., brought her to Iowa City and enjoyed being in her life. Her youngest daughter, Jeanni Walden Eckel, died in 2010. Her grandchildren are Katheryn Franko (Brian) and Margaret Allen of Des Moines, Iowa and Rory Eckel of Lubbock, Texas. Kate and Brian’s daughter, Evelyn is her only great grandchild. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Benton.

A celebration of life reception for Katheryn in Coralville will be announced. Memorials in her honor may be made to CommUnity Crisis Services and Food Bank at 1121 South Gilbert Court, Iowa City, Iowa 52240.

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Oscar Brownstein - November 13, 1928 - March 29, 2024

Departed: 03/29/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Oscar (Okkie) Lee Brownstein, 95, died on March 29th from complications from a fall in his neighborhood. He was also known by family and friends in Israel by his Hebrew name, Asher Lev Ben-Chaim.

Okkie was born November 13, 1928, in Becco, West Virginia, to Chaim and Thelma Brownstein. He graduated from Charleston High School, attended The University of West Virginia but flunked out because he was too busy editing the humor magazine and playing bridge for money. He was drafted into the army and served as a field artillery specialist in the Korean War. Returning to the States, he attended college on the G.I. Bill, earning a B.A. and an M.A. in English from The University of Missouri before going on to earn an M.F.A. in Playwriting from the Yale School of Drama, and a Ph.D. in Theatre from The University of Iowa. He taught English for three years at Binghamton College, State University of New York (SUNY) before being invited to return to The University of Iowa as a theatre professor. At Iowa he taught dramatic literature and theatre history before becoming Director of the newly-formed Iowa Playwrights Workshop, which at the time was also considered a part of the Iowa Writers Workshop. In 1979 he left Iowa to become the Chair of the Playwriting Department at the Yale School of Drama, where he taught for ten years before retiring. During the 1984-1985 academic year, he took a leave of absence and moved to Israel with his second wife, teaching dramatic literature at Hebrew University and Tel Aviv University.

Over the years, Okkie heard from many of his students, especially his playwrights, who thanked him for inspiring their creative work. He always viewed his primary role as creating the right conditions in which playwrights could thrive and learn to develop their unique voices in the process of revising their scripts.

Though highly accomplished professionally, when asked what he was most proud of in his life, Okkie quickly replied, without pause, “my three children.” He adored his children and grandchildren and always felt intensely happy in their presence.

Okkie is survived by his wife, Daphna Ben-Chaim; his three children, David Brownstein (BJ Schmitt), Sherrie (Jeff) Hall, and Jonathan (Angela) Brownstein; and four grandchildren, Ethan (Sam) Doerhoff, Gabrielle Bonet, Dylan Brownstein, and Alexander Brownstein. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Leibowitz, and his sister-in-law, Marilyn Brownstein. He was predeceased by his parents; his younger brother, Sam; and his ex-wife and the mother of his children, Suzanne Brooks Brownstein.

A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, June 16th, at 1:00 p.m. at Lensing’s Oak-Hill chapel, 210 Holiday Road, Coralville.

Okkie was a highly creative, brilliant man who wore his intelligence lightly. He was always a quiet, modest person with a dry wit and a passionate interest in many things in life. He had one of the most positive perspectives about life of anyone who ever lived.

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Cynthia "Cindi" Raye Dahnke - June 20, 1951 - March 27, 2024

Departed: 03/27/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Cynthia Raye “Cindi” Dahnke, 72, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at her home with her son. Rob, and dog, Keely, by her side.

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Janet Sue Norbeck - July 16, 1937 - March 05, 2024

Departed: 03/05/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Janet Sue Norbeck, 86, of Coralville passed away on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

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William "Bill" LaVelle - January 17, 1936 - February 06, 2024

Departed: 02/06/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: William “Bill” LaVelle, 88, of Coralville, passed away on February 6, 2024 in Iowa City.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Coralville.

Bill was born on January 17, 1936 in Sioux City, Iowa to William and Hazel (Smith) LaVelle. He graduated from Heelan High School in Sioux City. On June 20, 1959 he married his high school sweetheart, Loretta Kane and to this union, six children were born.

Bill graduated from the University of Iowa Dental School before serving in the United States Navy for two years. Upon discharge, he returned to Iowa joining his good friend Gene Zach in a Dental Practice in Cedar Rapids.

In 1971 Bill and Loretta moved to Iowa City which began Bill’s long tenure as a Dentist in the Otolaryngology Department at the University of Iowa. Bill attained many accomplishments throughout his career. He was very proud of his work on the University of Iowa Cleft Palate Team. Bill was named Professor Emeritus for his many years as an educator at the University of Iowa Dental School.

In his free time, Bill was an avid outdoorsman. He loved snow skiing and water skiing spending time between the mountains and his beloved cabin on the lake in Minnesota. He loved biking, fishing and hunting.

In retirement, Bill volunteered his time at a Community Dental Clinic in Colorado and participated in several mission trips with Cleft Palate Teams to South America.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Loretta; children: Erin (Tom) Major, Brian LaVelle (Millie Bennett), Colleen LaVelle, Doug (Elizabeth) LaVelle, Mick (Jennifer) LaVelle and Megan LaVelle (Brian Cobb); 13 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a very special aunt and uncle: Cecil and Earl Smith.

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Fredrick "Fred" Fevold - November 10, 1959 - February 05, 2024

Departed: 02/05/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Fredrick Fevold, 64, of Coralville, passed away on February 5, 2024.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm, Saturday, February 10, 2024 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Iowa. Visitation is prior to the service, beginning at 1pm. A celebration of life will take place beginning at 1pm on Saturday, February 17, 2024 at Backpocket Brewery in Coralville, Iowa.

Fred was born on November 10, 1959 in Morris, Minnesota to Lowell and Phyllis (Onnen) Fevold. Following graduation from Humboldt High School, Fred attended The University of Iowa.

Fred had an expansive career at the University of Iowa Hospital. He became a friendly and familiar face throughout the hospital during his years working in chart control. He later helped launch the Work Injury Recovery Center, where he worked until his retirement after 35 years of service.

Fred was a devoted blood and platelet donor, with well over 100 lifetime donations. He served on the board for Coralville Parks and Recreation for 22 years.

Fred enjoyed visiting museums and learning about history, potentially gaining new crossword puzzle answers along the way. He loved going to breweries with friends and tasting new beers. He cultivated a beautiful landscape at his house and enjoyed the effort that went into that. He was a helper through and through, and was always willing to show up to help friends and family with a project or a repair.

Fred and Bernie met during Fred’s chart control days at work. In the summer of 2012 they reconnected at a mutual friend’s birthday party and have been by each other’s sides since. They bonded over Hawkeye Football and being social butterflies. You were always more likely to find them at a concert, the Newton Races or card club than spending time at home. Bernie encouraged Fred to take opportunities to travel, which greatly enriched Fred’s life. Fred’s greatest joy in his final years was spending time with his grandson, Hayden. He loved being the first one to get Hayden out of his crib in the morning and “accidently” dozing off with Hayden while reading stories at bedtime. They fit an incredible number of adventures into Hayden’s two and half years, including vacations, boat rides, zoo trips, swimming time, Hayden’s first carousel ride and his first Hawkeye tailgate. He always made sure that Hayden knew the answer to the question, “Does grandpa love you?” was YES!

Fred is survived by his son, Jake (Jenny) Fevold; grandson, Hayden Fevold, longtime partner Bernadette Fulmer and siblings: Paula Zilmer, Mark (Sue) Fevold, Warren (Denise) Fevold, Chris Fevold, Carrie (Al) Wright, B.J. (Terri) Fevold, Heidi (Stan) Herndon and Jeri (Steve) Lane. Fred will be missed by his many nieces and nephews, friends, neighbors and co-workers.

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Richard Michaelson - June 18, 1959 - January 30, 2024

Departed: 01/30/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Richard “Rick” Michaelson of Iowa City passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. He was 64 years old.

Rick was the third of three sons born to Samuel and Marilyn (Rykken) Michaelson in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He spent his early childhood in Minnesota before moving to Waverly, Iowa, where he graduated from Waverly-Shell Rock Senior High and Wartburg College. In 1986, Rick married Susan Dominy of Waverly; they would later divorce.

Rick attended medical school at the Carver College of Medicine, graduating in 1990. He then completed both his residency and psychiatry fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and earned a Master’s Degree in Public Health.

Rick spent the next ten years serving the community as a psychiatrist at the Community Mental Health Center in Iowa City. He was valued by his patients and colleagues for his compassion, efficacy, and distinct sense of humor.

Rick loved music and had an especially extensive knowledge of classical music, even considering studying conducting before deciding to pursue medicine. He adored Shakespeare and his passion for Tolkien was unparalleled. In adulthood, he devoted considerable study to the craft of woodworking, building pieces for his home or gifting them to family.

Rick will be best remembered for his quick wit and his capacious mind. His life-long passion for reading equipped him with general knowledge both broad and deep; it was impossible to have a dull conversation with Rick.

Rick was preceded in death by his partner of twenty-four years, Jennifer Zaichenko, who passed away in October of 2023. He is survived by two brothers, Charles (Barbara) Michaelson of Coralville, and Robert (Anya) Michaelson of San Antonio, Texas. He also leaves behind a niece, Sarah Michaelson of Lake Forest, Illinois, and a nephew, Erik Michaelson of Brooklyn, New York.

A Celebration of Life and a sharing of memories will be held at Lensing’s Oak Hill Funeral Home at 210 Holiday Road in Coralville, Iowa on June 23, 2024. The event will begin at 3:00 pm.

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Kathleen Rita Nelson - June 11, 1947 - January 28, 2024

Departed: 01/28/2024 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Kathleen Nelson, 76, of Coralville, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 28, 2024.

A time to greet the family will be held from 4:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, February 2, 2024 at Lensing’s Oak Hill in Coralville.

Kathy was born on June 11, 1947 in Spring Grove, Minnesota to Clarence and Alice (Stigen) Myhre. After graduating from Spring Grove High School, Kathy worked for a couple of years before meeting Michael Nelson. The couple moved to Iowa and were married on November 14, 1970. To this union, two children were born.

While her children were young, Kathy worked as an in-home daycare provider. As her kids grew and were old enough to attend school, Kathy accepted a job at the Good Shepherd Center for Early Childhood Development. She served over 25 wonderful years there caring for and teaching children.

In her spare time, Kathy loved to read, draw, and watch scary movies. Above all, she enjoyed a good crossword puzzle and spending time with the ones she loved.

Kathy is survived by her beloved husband, Michael; children: Dee (Tim “Big”) Miller and Patrick “Goob” (Tammy) Nelson; grandchildren: Mya and Noah Miller and Harper Nelson and her sister, Valerie Christensen. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Carol, Margie, Pat, Donnie and Keith.

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John deSalme - May 12, 1935 - December 13, 2023

Departed: 12/13/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: John deSalme, 88, of Solon, passed away on December 13, 2023 at the Birdhouse.

Visitation will be held from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023 at Lensing’s Oak Hill in Coralville. A prayer service will follow at 4:00 p.m.

John was born on May 12, 1935 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Orrin and Frances (Rogers) deSalme. After graduating from high school, he attended Del Mar University and finished his undergraduate degree at the University of Iowa in 1957. During the 1960’s John obtained two Master’s Degrees from the University of Iowa.

In 1958 he married Sylvia Haverlah and to this union, three children were born. The couple later divorced. He married Peg Brown in 1983 and they enjoyed many adventures together until his passing.

John had a long-standing career as an instrumental music teacher. He taught in Orange Grove, Texas and Marengo, Iowa before teaching for 35 years within the Iowa City School District, serving 25 years as the West High Band Director.

John had many hobbies throughout the years. Directing the Eastern Iowa Brass Band—now Iowa Brass--for 10 years was a favorite. He truly enjoyed the friendships and camaraderie that came with it! John also was an avid outdoorsman. He loved fishing, camping trips in the Rocky Mountains, canoe trips in the Boundary Waters and bike rides on beautiful trails all across the country.

John is survived by his wife, Peg; children: John (Erin Wyld) deSalme, Jr., Rob (Nancy) deSalme and Suzanne deSalme; grandchildren: Heather (Tyler) Phillips, Amanda (Will) Hanson and Levi and Izak Kaiser; and five great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings: Dick (Joyce) deSalme, Tom (Judy) deSalme and Estelle Crawford and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Sylvia; nieces: Marti deSalme and Michelle Hunt and his nephew, Ben O’Meara.

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Daniel Lenoch - October 05, 1947 - December 10, 2023

Departed: 12/10/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Dan the man is dead. So it goes. Daniel Roy Lenoch died on December 10, 2023 after a brief illness. His greatest accomplishment in life was living a life of contentment. Rarely did he show anxiety, frustration, anger, or sadness. As a friend, son, brother, father, and – of course – an uncle, his greatest advice was simply “don't worry about it."

The eldest of nine children, he was raised in old Coralville by Leroy and Mary Ann among the love and chatter and chaos of a small, wonderfully unique Leroyian house. He graduated from City High in 1965 and enlisted in the Navy in ‘67. Eye problems (that sparkle) resulted in an early honorable discharge. He never served in Vietnam like so many of his generation and background, and out of respect to them, he did not consider himself a veteran.

He married and had two sons with Deborah née Christensen (later divorced but remained life-long friends and co-parents). He worked as a laundry service driver for 40 years out of Cedar Rapids. On his route, he met lots of working people and, like a true Iowan, was easy to like and to talk to. After retirement he just kept working, driving a shuttle van for a car dealer and – until a few weeks ago – a retirement community. Throughout his life, he was a gifted conversationalist, who met people with ease and enjoyed the company of others.

As the years rolled on, he became a proud grandfather of four. He traveled here and there, mostly with his parents and siblings, eventually spending quality time with kids and grandkids out west and back east. He drove SAG on a few RAGBRAIs, including a big F 350 diesel (accidently) on the bike route a few miles. It happens. Don’t worry about it.

In his younger days he played a bit of basketball, volleyball and golf. He was a Hawkeye football fan (a season ticket holder in peak Fry days). Donny was a good bowler. Sorry, we mean Danny was a good bowler. He was a Coral Lanes Friday night leaguer for decades. Later in life his exercise focused on arm wrestling the one-armed bandit.

Baseball was his main sport. A Cardinals fan, but as he matured and gained wisdom, he seemed to be more of a Cubs fan. The last MLB game he went to was the first ever played in Iowa at the Field of Dreams, a wonderful gift from his nephew-in-law Justin.

His wise cracks, self-deprecating humor, and smile often lit up a room. He treated people with dignity and respect. He asked you questions and listened attentively. And his blood flowed to those in need. He made over 370 donations to the UI DeGowin Blood Center, mostly platelets, from 1987 to this year. He was a committed, reliable, and content donor of the very thing that gives us life.

As time took its toll, Dan's physical ability became limited. He spent a short time in the hospital and rehab and died calmly on a bright Sunday morning. Upon hearing he died, Dan's eight-year-old granddaughter paused and asked, “was it peaceful?” We believe it was. He was a good man, and he will be missed.

Dan was preceded in death by mother, Mary Ann (2001), brothers: Johnny (1974) and Dave “Suds” (2004); father, Leroy (2012) and sisters: Vicki (2014) and Cindy (2016). He is survived by his 2 sons: Torey (son, Lucas, 21 and daughter, Clara, 24) and Tim (wife, Naaborko Sackeyfio-Lenoch, daughter, Zora, 8 and son Miles, 4). Additionally, he is survived by his sister, Jeanne Stubbs and brothers: Steve (Geri), Doug (Mary) and Jay (Marlene) as well as numerous nephews and nieces – and grand-nieces and grand-nephews – who knew him as Uncle Dan, their bud.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, December 22, 2023 at Lensing’s Oak Hill in Coralville. This event is casual, kid friendly and food will be provided.

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Joseph "Joey" Bacher - February 13, 1936 - November 12, 2023

Departed: 11/12/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Joseph “Joey” Bacher, 87, of Coralville, passed away on November 12, 2023 at the Iowa City VA Hospital.

Military honors will be rendered at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 2, 2023 at Lensing’s Oak Hill in Coralville. A celebration of life gathering will continue until 5:00 p.m.

Joe was born on February 13, 1936 in Knoxville, Tennessee. He graduated from high school in Tennessee before entering the United States Army Reserves in 1954. Joe enlisted into the Army in 1957. He became Airborne and Special Forces Green Beret qualified prior to serving two tours in Vietnam. He was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards including the Army Commendation Medal and the Bronze Star before his honorable discharge from the Army in 1977 with the rank of Master Sergeant.

Joey married Karen Marek in 1984. The couple lived in Coralville where Joey worked at the University of Iowa for over 20 years as an HVAC mechanic until retirement in 2002.

In his spare time Joey enjoyed fishing, woodworking, playing cards and boating. He had the uncanny ability to figure out and fix just about anything and never tired of learning new things. He was a kind and generous man who was loved by many and touched so many people’s lives in a meaningful way.

As his health began to decline in recent years, he looked forward to spending every weekend at the lake. His boating family took on new meaning and he treasured the love and support they provided to him. They were always there for him no matter what he needed.

Joey is survived by his loving wife, Karen; children: Terrie Hardman, Byron Bacher and Emily Bacher; grandchildren: Christopher Bacher, Levi Combs and Marshall Combs; mother-in-law, Janelle Marek; brother-in-law, John (Suzy) Marek and sisters-in-law: Dianne (Merlin) Conrad, Carol (Jeff) Corzatt and Cindy Marek. He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Kate Bacher; sister, Evelyn “Patsy” Scarbrough and father-in-law, Dale Marek.

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Thomas (Tom) Barbee - January 23, 1945 - October 18, 2023

Departed: 10/18/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Thomas (Tom) Curran Barbee, 78, of Coralville, IA passed away on October 18, 2023 surrounded by his loved ones.

A gathering for friends and family will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023 from 4:00-7:00 PM at Lensing’s Oak Hill, 210 Holiday Road, Coralville. Funeral services will take place at St. Thomas More Catholic Church on November 4, 2023 at 11:00 AM. Immediately after mass, military honors will be performed. Following, there will be a celebration of life at Brown Deer Country Club.

Thomas was born on January 23, 1945 (12345) in Columbus, Ohio to Horace McCord and Martha Elizabeth (Curran) Barbee. He grew up in Ashland and Columbus, graduating from Bishop Heartly High School before attending Ohio State University. Before completion of his degree, Tom enlisted in the Airforce for four years, proudly serving in Vietnam from 1967-1968. After his return from Vietnam, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Franklin University.

Tom married the love of his life, Joretta Eader, on January 29, 1966 in Columbus, Ohio. Together, they had three children, Thomas, Aaron, and Joe, living in many places throughout their young adulthood. In 1976, they moved to Iowa City, where they raised their family and established their professions.

Tom was devoted to his career. He developed his own business as a Wendy's franchisee in Iowa and Illinois, leading the company from 1976 to 2018. During this time, he opened two other franchises: Cinnamon Corner and Orange Julius. Apart from his main occupation, Tom was also a private pilot and delighted in his many years of flying.

Tom was the president of the Cedar Rapids Kernels board of directors from 2004-2009 and served as a member of the executive board from 2006-2023. In 2014, he was inducted into the Cedar Rapids Baseball Hall of Fame.

He was adamant about giving back to his community and supporting local organizations, an ideal he passed down to members of his family. Tom was on the Four Oaks Board of Directors and Wendy’s Franchise Advisory Council, both of which he served as president for many years. He was a member of the Wendy’s National Advertising Program, Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association, Coralville Public Library Board, and was actively part of the Mount Mercy University Board of Directors until 2023. Over the course of his adulthood, he was inducted into the Wendy’s Hall of Fame and was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Franklin University.

Tom was an avid golfer and enjoyed the friendships and memories made both on and off the course. He loved to travel with his wife Joretta, the two of them having the opportunity to see many areas of the world. Tom loved to watch the Kernels play baseball and took every chance possible to spend time with his family and friends. Above all, he was passionate and proud of his sons and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Joretta Barbee of Coralville, IA; three sons Thomas (Heather) Barbee of Ankeny, IA, Aaron (Tonya) Barbee of Cumming, GA, and Joseph Barbee (Tiffany De la Peña) of Tiffin, IA; grandchildren Kyler, Amery, Breckin, Brock, Curran, Zoa, Cillian, and Calvin; sister Suzanne (Bruce) DeWoody of Columbus, OH; brother-in-law Harvey (Marlene) Eader; sister-in-law Patricia Finely; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Harvey and Dorothy; and brother-in-law Norman Eader.

Tom was a compassionate and charismatic man who will be dearly missed by all of those who loved him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Kernels Foundation or Four Oaks Family and Childrens Services.

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James Hubert Johnson - October 24, 1921 - October 08, 2023

Departed: 10/08/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: James Hubert Johnson, 101, of Iowa City, formerly of Cherokee, IA, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, October 8, 2023.

A visitation will be held at 10 AM, Friday, October 20, 2023,at Parkview Church, 15 Foster Rd, Iowa City; with a Memorial Service at 11 AM. Military honors will be accorded by the Coralville American Legion Post 721. Memorials may be made to Parkview Church of Iowa City or Wounded Warrior Project.

James was born on October 24, 1921, in Humboldt, IA, the son of William and Bertha (Hefte) Johnson. He enlisted in the U.S. Army during WWII and served from 1941-1945. James graduated with a B.A. from St. Olaf College in 1949, and The University of Iowa Dental College in 1954. On June 19, 1954, James was united in marriage to Edna Mae Kristiansen in Nashua, IA, they just celebrated 69 years together.

James and Kris “Edna Mae” moved to Cherokee, IA where he practiced dentistry for 56 years. He was an active member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church where he served as a church councilman. He loved to play golf and enjoyed yearly fishing trips to Canada. Jim loved his family, friends, and patients, and the community of Cherokee. Many knew Jim as a kind and gentle man.

James is survived by his wife, Kris; three daughters, Lisa (Mark) Mysnyk of Iowa City, IA, Heidi (Michael) Jacoby of Chicago, IL, and Dagne (Mike) Gustafson of Greenwood, MN; Nine grandchildren, Daniel Mysynk, Mary (fiancée Michael Pretorius) Mysynk, Rachael (Jon) Page, Eva (Aaron) Koehn, Anna (Bryan) Anderson, James Jacoby, Elyse (Joey) Phoenix, Nathan (Meredith) Gustafson, and Jack Gustafson; ten great-grandchildren with another on the way, and one sister, Betty Williams of Humboldt, IA.

James is preceded in death by his parents; and siblings, William “Billy” Johnson, Wava Kimball, and Phyllis Johnson.

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Mary Beth Turgasen - April 04, 1947 - September 22, 2023

Departed: 09/22/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Mary Beth Turgasen, 76, of Iowa City, died on September 22, 2023 at Hallmark Care Center in Mount Vernon, IA with family by her side.

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Nancy Lee Pratt - July 17, 1937 - September 06, 2023

Departed: 09/06/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Nancy Lee Pratt, 86, died Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at home surrounded by her family and her faithful dog Nala.

Visitation will be Monday, September 11 from 5 PM to 7 PM at the Lensing Oak Hill Funeral Service, 210 Holiday Rd, Coralville. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM, Tuesday, September 12 at the funeral home. Burial will be at Memory Gardens Cemetery with a luncheon following at Lensing Funeral Home, 605 Kirkwood Avenue, Iowa City, Iowa in the Kirkwood Room.

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Thomas Edward Walljasper - September 06, 1965 - September 03, 2023

Departed: 09/03/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Thomas “Tom” Edward Walljasper, 57, of Coralville, died on September 3, 2023 at the Bird House – Hospice Home of Johnson County with family by his side. Tom fought valiantly against pancreatic cancer.

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Betty Jean Aubrecht - March 03, 1932 - August 30, 2023

Departed: 08/30/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Betty Jean Aubrecht, 91, of North Liberty passed away on August 30, 2023 at Windmill Manor.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday September 5, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Oak Hill Cemetery in Coralville.

Betty was born on March 3, 1932, in Kalona, Iowa to Ervin “E E” and Faye (Baker) Grecian. She was raised in Kalona and later moved to the Iowa City/Coralville area before settling in North Liberty in 2008.

Betty married Merrill “Shorty” Aubrecht on January 15, 1955 in Lone Tree and together the couple raised their five children, Karen, Douglas, Ronald, Kevin and Sherrie. She spent her career in food service, working for the Veteran Affairs Medical Center for 30 years, retiring in 1994.

Betty was a great cook and enjoyed fishing, camping and shopping.

She is survived by two daughters Karen Aubrecht of Golden, CO, and Sherrie Aubrecht of North Liberty, IA, two sons Douglas Aubrecht of Coralville, IA, and Kevin Aubrecht of Florida, three grandchildren Kimberly, Chris and Cody, three great-grandchildren Cameron, Chase and Quinten, and two siblings Leo (Merna) Grecian of Coralville, IA, and Joan (Jerry) Michel of Hills, IA.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Ronald Aubrecht, and daughter-in-law Tina Aubrecht.

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Ron "Papa" Kopp - October 02, 1952 - August 23, 2023

Departed: 08/23/2023 (Coralville)

Obituary Preview: Ronald “Papa” Earl Kopp passed away on August 23, 2023, in the presence of his family at the University of Iowa Palliative Care Unit.

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Funeral Services Tailored to Your Needs

Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home offers a wide range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family they serve. Whether you're planning a traditional funeral, a cremation service, or a celebration of life, their experienced team will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's memory.

From pre-planning to aftercare, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home is committed to providing exceptional service and support every step of the way. Their funeral directors are trained to listen carefully to your needs and desires, ensuring that every detail is taken care of with precision and care.

Cremation Services with Dignity and Respect

In recent years, cremation has become an increasingly popular choice for many families. At Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home, they understand the importance of treating each cremation with dignity and respect. Their state-of-the-art crematory is operated by trained professionals who adhere to the highest standards of care and integrity.

Whether you choose direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, or a full traditional funeral followed by cremation, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home will guide you through the process with compassion and expertise.

Premium Facilities for Comfort and Convenience

The facilities at Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home have been carefully designed to provide comfort and convenience for families during their time of need. Their spacious chapel can accommodate large gatherings, while their intimate visitation rooms offer a cozy atmosphere for smaller groups.

In addition to their beautifully appointed facilities, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home also offers ample parking, easy accessibility, and a convenient location that makes it easy for friends and family to gather from near and far.

Pre-Planning: A Gift to Your Loved Ones

While it may seem difficult to think about planning your own funeral, doing so can be a thoughtful gift to your loved ones. By making your wishes known ahead of time, you can spare them from having to make difficult decisions during an already emotional time.

The team at Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home is happy to help you explore your pre-planning options, answering any questions you may have and guiding you through the process with sensitivity and expertise.

Grief Support and Aftercare

Losing a loved one can be a devastating experience, but it doesn't have to be faced alone. At Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home, they recognize that grief is a journey that continues long after the funeral is over. That's why they offer ongoing support and aftercare programs designed to help you navigate the healing process.

From grief counseling to support groups, memorial events, and online resources, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home is committed to providing the support you need as you move forward on your journey of healing.

A Commitment to Excellence

At Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home, excellence is not just a goal – it's a standard. From their meticulous attention to detail to their unwavering commitment to compassion and care, every aspect of their service is designed to exceed your expectations.

As a testament to their dedication to excellence, Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home has earned numerous awards and accolades from industry organizations and satisfied families alike. But more importantly, they've earned the trust and gratitude of the Coralville community they serve.

Contact Us: Let Us Be There for You

If you're facing the loss of a loved one or simply want to learn more about the services offered by Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home, please don't hesitate to reach out. Their caring team is always available to answer your questions, offer guidance, and provide support during this difficult time.

You can contact Lensing-Coralville Funeral Home by phone at [phone number], or visit their website at [website URL]. They look forward to serving you with compassion, dignity, and respect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased, while also providing important information to friends, family, and acquaintances. They can also help to notify people of the passing of a loved one who may not have been in close contact with them.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, an obituary is written by a family member or close friend of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary, or even provide a template for the family to fill out.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the individual's life story. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, but still provide enough information to give readers a sense of who the person was.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the notice and make it more meaningful to readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online publication?

The process for submitting an obituary varies depending on the publication. Some may have an online submission form, while others may require you to email or fax the information. Be sure to check with the publication ahead of time to determine their specific requirements.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some newspapers and online publications offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge by the word or line.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is becoming more common for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise and can ensure that your life story is told in your own words.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is typically a brief announcement of someone's passing, while an obituary provides more detailed information about their life and legacy.

Should I include funeral arrangements in the obituary?

Yes, it's a good idea to include funeral arrangements in the obituary so that friends and family know where and when to attend services.

Can I include quotes or poems in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include quotes, poems, or other personal touches in an obituary to make it more meaningful and reflective of the person's personality.

How do I handle errors or corrections in an obituary?

If you notice an error in an obituary, contact the publication immediately so that they can correct it. If you need to make changes after it has been published, you may need to submit a revised version.

Can I republish an obituary at a later date?

In some cases, yes. If you want to republish an obituary on a anniversary of the person's passing or on another special occasion, you may be able to do so with permission from the original publication.

What is a living obituary?

A living obituary is a biographical sketch written about someone while they are still alive. This can be a unique way to celebrate someone's life achievements and milestones.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to share obituaries on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. This can be a convenient way to notify friends and family who may not see traditional print notices.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search online archives of newspapers and genealogy websites to find old obituaries. You may also be able to find them at local libraries or historical societies.

Can I create a digital archive of obituaries?

Yes, there are several online platforms that allow you to create digital archives of obituaries. These can be a useful way to preserve family history and legacy.

What is the role of an obituary in grief recovery?

An obituary can play an important role in grief recovery by providing a sense of closure and allowing friends and family to come together to mourn and celebrate the person's life.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include humorous anecdotes or quotes in an obituary as a way to celebrate the person's personality and spirit.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If you need to include sensitive information such as cause of death or other personal details, it's best to approach it with tact and sensitivity. Consider consulting with family members or friends before publishing.

Can I use an obituary as part of a memorial service?

Yes, many people choose to read an obituary aloud during a memorial service or celebration of life as a way to honor the person's memory.

What is the future of obituaries in the digital age?

The rise of online publications and social media has changed the way we share and consume obituaries. Expect to see more interactive and multimedia elements incorporated into online notices in the future.

Can I write an obituary for someone who was not famous or well-known?

Absolutely! An obituary is not just for celebrities or public figures. It's a way to honor and remember anyone who has lived a life worth celebrating.

How do I ensure that my obituary is accurate and respectful?

To ensure accuracy and respectfulness, take your time when writing the obituary, proofread carefully, and consider having others review it before publication.