Leonard-Grau
Funeral Home & Cremation Service
Elkader, Iowa 52043
563-580-4601

Independence – Leo Donald “Dewey” Donnelly 95, of Independence Iowa, passed away Monday night, May 27, 2019, at Lexington Estates in Independence.

He was born September 3, 1923, in Independence to A. Bernard and Johanna (McGrath) Donnelly. In 1941, Leo graduated from Independence High School, and attended Independence Community College where he was a member of the Jr. College Eight-Man Championship Football Team. In 1947- 48, he served in the U.S. Army, and was privileged to go on the Honor Flight in 2011. Following his service, he returned to farm in rural Independence. In 1951, he married Therese Corcoran Nosek. After his farming career, he enjoyed being a Buchanan County Supervisor for 24 years.

Dewey was an active person in the community; he was a member of St. John Catholic Church for 95 years, the Wapsipinicon Golf Club, the Democratic Party and Foresters. He actively volunteered with the Historical Society and was on many local committees as a county supervisor. He was very proud of his Irish heritage, enjoyed woodworking, his friends at the “Fun” table at Lexington, and participating in the 4^th of July parade with his ponies.

Leo is survived by nine children: Pat (John) Freberg of Needville, TX, Ann (Richard) Toale of Independence, Mary (Dennis) Donlea of Winthrop, Margaret (Brian) Leonard of Elkader, Bridget Donnelly, Dennis (Lori) Donnelly, Tim (Cathy) Donnelly, Brian (Kris) Donnelly, and Emmett (Delene) Donnelly all of Independence; 17 grandchildren; 25 great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Helen Donnelly plus many other relatives and friends.

Dewey was preceded in death by his wife, Therese; his parents; five brothers, Ray (Irene), Leonard (Wilma), John (Ruth), Jim (Maxine) and William.

Friends may call from 4:00 to 7:00 pm Friday, May 31, 2019, at St. John Catholic Church, Independence and one hour prior to Mass on Saturday.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Saturday, June 1, 2019, at St. John Catholic Church in Independence with Rev. David Beckman as Celebrant. Burial with full Military Honors will follow at St. John Catholic Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at the church.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established. Leonard-Grau Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Elkader is assisting the family.