Birth Date: 1959-03-23

Deceased Date: 2019-10-22

Obituary:
Obituary of Dennis E. Albright

Dennis Albright, age 60, of rural Nichols, died suddenly of an apparent heart attack at his home on Tuesday, October 22, 2019.
Memorial services will be held at 3pm Monday, October 28, 2019, at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City, where there will be a time of visitation from 1pm until service time on Monday. In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made in Dennis’s memory to Eastern Iowa Honor Flight.  To share a memory, thought or condolence with his family please visit the funeral home website @ www.gayandciha.com.
Dennis Eugene Albright was born March 23, 1959, in Webster City, Iowa the son of Darold and Marilyn (Niebuhr) Albright.  For over 40 years Dennis worked with his father and sister in the family’s business, Graphic Printing and Designs.  Dennis met his future wife, Carolyn Faber, in the 1980’s and they would spend the next 30+ years together.  In 1994, they moved to a small acreage in Nichols and they happily settled into the small town country life.  A special day for Dennis was when he accompanied his father on the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight to Washington DC in 2016.
His family includes his wife, Carolyn, his mother, Marilyn Albright, sister and her husband, Elizabeth & Paul Matel, niece, Rachel Matel, brother-in-law & wife, Ken & Vicky Faber, sister-in-law and husband Sue & Joel Steffens, and many aunts, uncles & cousins. 
He was preceded in death by his father, Darold; sister, Denise Albright; and Carolyn’s parents, Frank & Lillian Faber.

Deceased Date: 2019-11-08

Obituary:
 Lori Ann Weitzell of Iowa City passed away at home on November 8, 2019 after a courageous battle with a long illness.

She is survived by her loving husband Kirk, her adoring daughters Erin Weitzell Petersen (Amos), Emily Weitzell, grandson Cecil and sister Debbie Chelf, all of Iowa City. Lori is also survived by many sisters and brothers-in-law and several nieces and nephews.

Lori was preceded in death by her parents, Dorothy and Edwin Dlouhy, also of Iowa City.

A celebration of Lori's life will be held on Thursday, November 14th at 12:00 noon at The Fraternal Order of Eagles, 225 Highway 1, Iowa City, Iowa 52246.

Lori was loved by many and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Birth Date: 1958-07-01

Deceased Date: 2018-09-08

Obituary:
Jim (JT) Feeney, age 60 of West Liberty & Iowa City, died of a probable cardiac event on September 8, 2018.

Jim was born on July 1, 1958 at Mercy Hospital in Iowa City to parents, Barb (Boyle) & Dick Feeney. Jim grew up on Ronalds Street where he loved playing with his siblings and neighbors as well as attending the summer playgrounds at North Market and Happy Hollow Parks. He attended Horace Mann Elementary, Central & Southeast Jr. high schools and graduated from City High School in 1977.

He worked for Things, Things & Things and more recently at The University of Iowa for nearly 30 years; and most recently working in Housing & Dining at Hillcrest Dormitory as Store Keeper 2. His co-workers will remember his friendly greetings and his commitment to provide service to others.

Jim met the love of his life, Denise Anderson, in 1995 and they were married on April 21, 2002. The couple have also lived at one time in Coralville & Keota with many cats in their lives.

Jim will be remembered for his friendly smile and charismatic personality. His family and friends will remember his generosity to others. Years ago, Jim adopted the DO IT NOW motto and used it in his daily life as a hard-working person at work and at home.

Survivors include his wife, Denise Anderson of West Liberty; mother, Barb Feeney of Iowa City; brothers, Rick Feeney (Amy) of Cedar Rapids & John (Angela Murphy) Feeney of Coralville; sister, Sue Feeney (Doug Russell) of Iowa City;
nieces, Cybil (Sleichter) Miller (Matt) of Coralville & Mindy Sleichter of Iowa City;
nephews, Kyle Sleichter & Kevin Feeney, both of Cedar Rapids; brothers-in-law, Alan Anderson & Dennis Anderson of Marshalltown and sister-in-law, Linda (Christopher) Kondrath of Oak Park, Il.

Departed family includes Jim’s Father, Dick Feeney, niece, Liz Sleichter & in-laws, Lois & Gerald Anderson.

Instead of flowers and plants, donations may be made to the Jim Feeney Memorial Fund.

Friends & family are invited to a Remembrance Gathering on Saturday, September 15, 2018, from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Lensing Funeral & Cremation Service, 605 Kirkwood Ave in Iowa City. A private burial service will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery.


The clock of time is wound but once.
And no man has the power To tell just when the
hands will stop, at late or early hour.
To lose one’s wealth is sad indeed,
To lose one’s health is more,
To lose one’s soul
is such a loss
No man can restore.
The present only is our own,
Live, love, toil with a will,
Place no faith in “tomorrow”
For the clock may then
be still.

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest.
-W. H. Auden
 

Birth Date: 1959-06-12

Deceased Date: 2011-01-05

Obituary:
Jeffrey W. Hale, 51, of Cedar Rapids, died Wed. January 5, 2011. Services at 3 pm Sunday in Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Pastor Heather Hayes will officiate. Friends may call at the chapel after 2 PM on Sunday. Jeff was born June 12, 1959 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Robert and Dee (Meyer) Hale. He grew up in Iowa City and was a member of Iowa City High class of 1977. He attended the University of Iowa and was a member of the Hawkeye Marching Band and the Air Force ROTC. He entered the USAF as a commissioned officer in 1982 and proudly served his country until his retirement in 2003, attaining the rank of Major. He traveled the world with the Air Force, having assignments as far away as the Philippines and Germany, and stateside in Colorado, South Dakota, Ohio and New Mexico. He married Kristin (Stack) Hale, July 20, 1985 in Iowa City. His pride and joy, his two children, were born while stationed in Germany. After his retirement from the USAF, he returned to Iowa. He was involved with Boy Scouts and was a volunteer at Linn-Mar show choir events. Survivors include his parents, his wife, Kristin (Kris); children Katharine (Katie) and Patrick all of Cedar Rapids; his brother, Scott (Kelli) of Iowa City; in-laws Pat Stack & Bob George of Fort Collins, CO, Phil Stack & Anne Kelty of Aiken, SC; brothers-in-law Kyle Stack (Leah) of Fort Collins, CO, Mark Basler of Chelmsford, MA, nephews Nathan and Andy; “Mom Two” Marilyn Burich and “sisters” Melanie Seeber and Missy Schintler. He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his sister in law, Kim Basler.Major Hale proudly served his country during time of conflict, may he now find peace and be at rest.

Birth Date: 1959-04-06

Deceased Date: 2016-10-28

Obituary:

Denise Lynn Morton (née Henry) of Coal Valley, IL, passed away at the age of 57 on Friday, October 28, 2016 at the University of Iowa Hospitals. Denise had been diagnosed with a blood disorder called Polycythemia-Vera almost 20 years ago and was successful in keeping it under control through clean eating and keeping fit with daily workouts. In mid-September of this year, it progressed into Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Denise sought treatment first at a facility in Arizona, but after developing a respiratory complication, she opted to move to the UI Hospitals to be treated closer to family.

 

Denise was born in Cedar Falls, Iowa on April 6, 1959 and moved to Iowa City when she was 4. She graduated from the University of Iowa in 1982 with a degree in Piano Performance. Denise and Ron met in the Hawkeye Marching Band and were married on July 11, 1981. Being very active regionally as a piano teacher and oboist, she performed in the Southeast Iowa Symphony Orchestra for 19 years, the last 10 as Principal Oboe, and as Second Oboe of the Quad City Symphony Orchestra for 22 years. Being with family was always a priority, and hosting large family gatherings was something she thoroughly enjoyed doing. In addition, Denise loved maintaining and sitting by her large flower garden and pond, always enjoying the outdoors.

 

Denise is survived by her husband, Ron Morton of Coal Valley, IL; her four children, Zack Morton of Davenport, IA, Drew (Shivhan) Morton of Iowa City, IA, Caitlin (Billy) Tesch of Oswego, IL, and Monica Morton of Coal Valley, IL; her mother Gloria Henry of Indianola, IA; her sister Marsha Deane of Oviedo, FL; and her brother Martin Henry of Lakewood, CO. She was preceded in death by her father, Harvey and brother, Darrell.

 

A celebration of Denise's life will be held on November 20, 2016 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the University Club in downtown Moline, IL. All are welcome to join and share memories of Denise with family and friends. To share a memory, thought or condolence please go to the funeral home website @ www.gayandciha.com.


 

Birth Date: 1959-04-03

Deceased Date: 2021-09-17

Obituary:
Tad Michael Johnston, age 62, passed on September 17, 2021. He was born in Iowa City on April 3, 1959 to Judy (Hills) and Joseph Johnston. A graduate of City High, he went to Pilots school where he earned a pilot’s license. He was a computer trouble-shooter for the City of Iowa City and Pearsons computer-based testing center. At age 30, he enlisted in the Army and after being stationed in Germany, he served in Desert Storm. Re-enlisting for another 4 years in 1992, he closed out his duty at Ft. Sill, OK as Novell Network Administrator at the rank of SSG (signal support system specialist and software analyst and combat veteran (1990-1996) He was awarded: Army commendation medal; Army achievement medal; Army good conduct medal; National defense service medal; Kuwait liberation medal; Southwest Asia service medal with 3 bronze service star and accorded expert marksmanship status. Tad married Tami Poggenpohl in September 1982 and later divorced. He is survived by Tami, sons Joe, Jim and Justin, mother Judy, and step-mother Amanda Potterfield; siblings Tyler (Angie), Tim, Tricia (John) Lacey and Harris Johnston. And grandchildren, Michael, Kaitlyn, Gage and George. He was pre-deceased by son John, grandson Jaxston, and father, Joseph Johnston. Tad was a natural mechanic. He loved to tinker; be it cars, trucks or motorcycles. He felt especially rewarded when overhauling motorcycles with grandson Gage. While Tad suffered serious health issues which occurred during Desert Storm, he remained upbeat and was in a good place….thoroughly enjoying time with family and friends. There will be a visitation from 11-1 p.m. on September 30th at Gay-Ciha funeral home, followed by gravesite military honors in Tiffin. We welcome you to share your memories of Tad at the visitation, or leave your condolences online at www.gayandciha.com. Donations in Tad’s memory can be made to the VFW.
 

Birth Date: 1959-04-03

Deceased Date: 2022-01-25

Obituary:
Our cherished wife, mother and sister, Diane Louise Ngatuvai (Kautz), 62, was welcomed home by our Heavenly Father on Tuesday, Jan. 25 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her beautiful smile, light and warmth will be missed by all.

Diane was born on April 3, 1959 to Charles and Louise Kautz in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. From a young age, Diane loved getting lost in a good book and adored her cat, Tuffy. When she wasn't reading, you could find her listening to Donny Osmond on cassette while she raced around town in her blue '66 VW Beetle with her friends. She was part of the pep squad and had fun cheering at sporting events. After graduating from Iowa City High School in 1977, she went on to study for a semester at Iowa State University where she made a decision that would shape the rest of her life for good.

While in college she was introduced to two missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by a roommate. As she says, "I was hooked!" She loved to tell how she read half the Book of Mormon the first night she received it and went to ask the bishop the next week if she could serve a mission. She was baptized and a year later served a mission in Rapid City, South Dakota. Her mission was a sacred and joyful experience. She enjoyed sharing mission stories and memories that she considered anchors to her testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Diane was a woman of deep and abiding faith who emulated the love of the Savior in everything she did. She truly was an instrument in His hands, cheerfully serving as the local president in every women's auxiliary for the Church, making lasting impacts on hundreds for decades. It gave her an opportunity to teach and be taught while continually striving to become closer to the Savior.

After her mission, in 1983, Diane moved to Salt Lake City where she would eventually meet her husband, Laponi. They were both young, returned missionaries who had left their families and homes, Diane from Iowa, and Laponi from Tonga, to venture out into the world. We've often said, as their children, that Diane and Laponi gave us the best of both worlds in regard to culture, tradition, and most importantly, their shared love of the gospel of Jesus Christ. They were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple on May 19, 1984, beginning a forever family.

Diane was a devoted mother, raising four boys she cherished, Sione (Spouse: Sarah, Children: Samea, Noah, Elijah), Spencer (Spouse: Raven, Children: Nathan, Noelle), Stephen and Tomasi. Being a mother was one of Diane's greatest joys and accomplishments in life. As her children, we never grew tired of hearing her musings and each had an individual and special relationship with her that we will hold dear, forever. She was an incredible mother, caring, supportive, kind and hilarious. We will miss her deeply. Diane truly was a mother to all. She radiated kindness and compassion and people were drawn to her light. Her sons quickly recognized that when friends wanted to come over, it was usually to come spend time with Diane as she was always the life of the party. She was known to many as a shoulder you could cry on and a listening ear ready to comfort and support.

She ended her 45-year career as an Administrative Assistant in April of 2021. Diane had the honor of working with multiple Governors of Utah, mentoring some of Utah's brightest youth, and working with world-renowned doctors and administrators at the John A. Moran Eye Center. Though for her, it was never where she worked, but who she worked with. She considered her "Lunch Bunch" as sacred sisters who have literally saved her life. As her family, we are forever grateful for their kindness and compassion towards her. After retiring, Diane spent her time with her grandchildren, her greatest treasures in this world.

Diane was passionate about music. She enjoyed singing in the Mormon Youth Symphony and Chorus and dreamt of one day being in the Tabernacle Choir. She played the piano beautifully like her mother. She would play for hours on Sundays, filling her home with delightful music. She hoped to pass on her love of reading by gifting and reading books with her grandchildren every chance she could. "Grandma Dee" was also the person to call and recount their silliest of stories. She was witty and smart and loved to laugh often. Diane was the epitome of a gracious person. Her penmanship was perfect and her words even more. Her light and spirit will be missed greatly and we long for the day to be with her again.

Diane was predeceased by her parents, Charles and Louise Kautz. She is survived by her brothers Stephen (Marie), Jeffrey (Anne), and Leslie (Janice) Kautz; her husband: Laponi; Sons: Sione (Sarah), Spencer (Raven), Stephen and Tomasi Ngatuvai.

Funeral services will be held as follows:

Public Viewing:

Sunday, January 30 from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Liberty 3rd Ward Chapel

1621 South 1100 East

Salt Lake City, Utah 84105

Private Family Viewing:

Monday, January 31 from 9:00-10:30 a.m.

Liberty 3rd Ward Chapel

1621 South 1100 East

Salt Lake City, Utah 84105

Celebration of Life Service:

Monday, January 31 at 11:00 a.m.

Liberty 3rd Ward Chapel

1621 South 1100 East

Salt Lake City, Utah 84105

Graveside service and burial to immediately follow at Larkin Sunset Lawn, 2350 E. 1300 S. Salt Lake City, Utah 84108.

Birth Date: 1959-04-29

Deceased Date: 2022-01-28

Obituary:
Sandra (Sandy) Abel, 62, of Iowa City, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2022 at home with her loving family by her side.

Please join us in PINK for a celebration of life that will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 12, 2022 followed by an informal gathering until 4:00 p.m. at Lensing Funeral and Cremation Service in Iowa City.

Sandy was born on April 29, 1959 in Iowa City to Davey and Patricia (Peterson) Kupka. Following graduation from City High School in 1977, Sandy remained in Iowa City and worked for many local businesses throughout their tenure.

On April 13, 1985, Sandy married Mark Abel at the Danforth Chapel and to this union, two daughters were born.

Sandy had a positive effect on everyone she met. She overcame every obstacle with a smile and grace. She was carefree, gentle, light-hearted and a darn good time! Sandy frequently said that her greatest gift was becoming a Yaya. You could often find her singing in the kitchen about whatever she was making or enjoying a gin and tonic with her sister. Although an avid Hawkeye fan, Sandy wasn’t shy to share her feelings of frustration during a close game. And while shopping around town, she would often refer to stores as something other than their given name (Tarjay aka Target). Life was never to be taken too seriously when around Sandy, just have a laugh and a good time.

Sandy is survived by her beloved husband, Mark; daughters: Lauren (Matt) Rosazza and Madison (fiancé, Jake Miller) Abel; grandchildren: Abel, Elliott and Oliver Rosazza; sister, Deb (Ted) Pacha and brother, Greg (Leann) Kupka as well as several other extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents and her in-laws: Dorothy and Lou Abel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Iowa City Hospice or to a memorial fund in her name that will go to her grandchildren (information to be provided at the serviced) and online condolences may be shared at www.lensingfuneral.com.

Birth Date: 1959-04-21

Deceased Date: 2015-11-17

Obituary:
Mary Jo daughter of William & Marilyn Laschke.  Married Dace Knaack in Davenport, Ia.  Later partnered with Brian Teigland for the last 15 yrs.  Mary worked for The President Riverboat Casino and later as a Manager for the Goodwill Stores.  She was also a merchandiser for Acosta, and worked for the U.S. census Bureau.  No services per her request.  Mary Jo is survived by her mother of Iowa City, sisters Holle, Ruth (Dennis Woods)  Susie (Gilbert Phelps), 3 nieces, 1 nephew and her cat Dale.
memories may be shared by visiting esterdahl.com

Birth Date: 1958-10-21

Deceased Date: 2022-03-01

Obituary:
Diana Lynn DeWalle, 63, of Riverside, IA passed away peacefully Tuesday March 1, 2022 with her husband Keith by her side while in the care of The Bird House Hospice – Hospice Home of Johnson County. She was a loving wife, sister, aunt, and friend. She was kind, positive, happy, social and caring. A Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date this year.

Diana was the second child of Jim and Joy (Hesseltine) McFall born October 21, 1958. She grew up in Iowa City and graduated from City High School, class of 1977. She received an Administrative Assistant Associates degree from Kirkwood Community College in 1978.

Diana and the love of her life Keith DeWalle were united in marriage for 42 years and made their home in Riverside, IA. Diana worked as a University of Iowa College of Law Secretary for the over 43 years. Diana and Keith enjoyed vacationing visiting family in Arkansas, fishing and dining out. She loved shopping, cooking, flowers and animals. Diana and Keith have enjoyed the companionship of many horses, dogs and cats through their life together.

Diana enjoyed life and spending time with her family celebrating special occasions. She hosted many family birthday parties, and enjoyed decorating for the holidays and celebrating with family and friends.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, A. Keith DeWalle; mother-in-law Mavis DeWalle of Sherwood, AR; sister Debra McFall-Wallerich (Jeff Wallerich) of Iowa City, IA and brother Jeff McFall of Rochester, MN.; nieces Shana and Cheri McFall and nephew Kyle McFall all of Iowa City; and many friends including colleagues at the College of Law.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of The Bird House – Hospice Home of Johnson County for the compassionate care they provided to Diana.