Thera Dee

THERA PATRICIA DEE

Coralville

Thera Patricia Dee, 86, of Coralville, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015, surrounded by her family at Mercy Hospice.

Pat was born on a farm outside of Northwood, Iowa, on Jan. 19, 1929, to Arnold and Sena Johnson Loken. She married Loren Everett Dee of Oxford, Iowa, in 1952. He preceded her in death in 1964.

Pat developed a passion for libraries while working at the Mason City Public Library during high school. She graduated from the University of Iowa in library science. After their wedding, she and Loren moved to Omaha, Neb., so he could pursue his career as a CPA. Loren was diagnosed with ALS and they moved to Coralville in 1960 to be near family. After Loren's passing, Pat continued to work in public accounting with a long-time role with Dee, Gosling and Co. (later part of Clifton Gunderson LLC).

Those who knew Pat would attest to her quick smile, kind words and deeds. She had a lifelong commitment of service to others, and on countless occasions provided support to individuals and organizations in need. When Pat offered help, she meant it. She put her love of libraries to work helping to found the Coralville Public Library and served as trustee for 31 years. To honor her long-time service to the library, the T. Patricia Dee Volunteer Service Award was established in 1996 and is awarded annually to outstanding volunteers.

She was a member of the Coralville United Methodist Church since 1960, serving in many leadership and volunteer roles, including treasurer and Stephens' Minister. She served as president of Church Women United of Johnson County, who recognized her as the Valiant Woman of the Year in 2000. Pat had an interest in local history and was active with the Johnson County Historical Society as director/treasurer for many years. She also invested her time and talent with Pilot/Noon Pilot Club, Oxford Eastern Star, Norse Club, Free Lunch Program and many more. Her spirit will be missed by all.

Pat was a staunch Hawkeye fan and her enthusiasm made it dangerous to sit next to her during close games! She was also very proud of her Norwegian heritage.

She is survived by her three children, Deborah Dee of Coralville and Massachusetts, Douglas Dee (Bonnie Blythe) of Mission Hills, Kan., and Diana Bascio (Joseph) of Springfield, Ill.; and three grandchildren, Elizabeth Dee, John Dee and Lauren Bascio. She is also survived by a sister, Ardis Hughes (Jim) of Mason City; sister-in-law, Mary Frisk Loken of Springfield, Ill.; and several nieces and nephews.

A beloved brother, A. Dennis Loken, preceded her in death.

The family greatly appreciates the dedication and wonderful care provided over the past nine years by Crestview Nursing Center in West Branch.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 8, at the Coralville United Methodist Church, where visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday. Private graveside services will be held at the Oxford Cemetery.

Online condolences may be sent for her family through the Web at www.gayandciha.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be directed to Coralville United Methodist Church, 806 13th Ave., Coralville, IA 52241; Coralville Public Library, 1401 Fifth St., Coralville, IA 52241; or ALS Association Iowa Chapter, 3636 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50266.

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Pat's family and her services.