Josefina “Finy” Laviada Durin

Josefina “Finy” Laviada Durin

Cedar Rapids

Josefina “Finy” Laviada Durin, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and active community member, passed away on July 7, 2023, at the age of 95. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and dedication to her family and community.

To honor Finy's memory and celebrate her remarkable life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 29, at All Saints Catholic Church, located at 720 29th St., SE, Cedar Rapids. Prior to the service, a visitation will be held for one hour, allowing friends and loved one’s time to pay their respects. Following the service, there will be a private burial.

Born on Nov. 16, 1927, in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. She married her husband, George Durin, in 1955. After their marriage, Finy and George settled in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where they raised their five children.

Finy received her high school degree from the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, Louisiana. She later returned to Merida, where she graduated from the University of Yucatan.

Throughout her life, Finy and George shared a deep love for the beach, and family vacation time spent in Cancun. They cherished the moments spent together, building lasting memories with their family.

As a big sports fan, it wasn’t long before she adopted and developed a passion for the Iowa Hawkeyes. She always found delight in cheering for her favorite teams and avidly followed their journeys. Tennis was her love, and she was also an avid golfer.

Finy embraced her community in Cedar Rapids for 68 years, actively participating in various organizations that held significance to her. She was a devoted member of All Saints Catholic Church. Additionally, she contributed her time and energy to the Garden Club of America, the Junior League, the Mount Mercy University Board, the Cedar Rapids Country Club and Mercy Hospital Auxiliary. Her commitment to service and philanthropy enriched the lives of those around her.

Finy is survived by her loving children, Fini (Dennis) Koerner, Jaime Durin, George (Tahnee) Durin, Julie Herman and Peter (Pam) Durin; 12 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband; and her son-in-law, Mike Herman.

Finy will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all those fortunate enough to have known her. May she rest in eternal peace, forever remembered for her kindness, fun, generosity and unwavering love.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Cedar Rapids Humane Society, an organization close to Finy's heart. By contributing to this cause, you will help continue her legacy of compassion and care for animals in need.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.