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Ray posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
I was lucky enough to be hired by West Dubuque Schools in the 2nd semester of 1978. I was a little nervous because I started later in the school year.
But, the first day of school I met the nicest lady named Leah McCool. She quickly helped me with the procedures of Dyersville's Warning and Kortenkamp Halls.
The faculty at all the Dyersville schools shared time and kindergarten were friendly and excellent teachers.
At that time, we were lucky enough at that time we to have 45 minute lunches and a half hour prep time at the end of the school.
It was during this time that I got to know Leah as a person. We taught across from each other for the last nine years at Warning Hall
The first thing in the morning, she was who greeted me. We talked about teaching, students, and probably about her family and mine.
She amazed me with her patience for teaching math and science.
She really got into science and we used to go to clinics to obtain new ideas for teaching.
I was lucky enough to meet her grand mother and got invited over for dinner and her famous soup.
Her dad passed away in Raymond, IA and she was shocked when I came up to the wake. But, it was worth the drive to support my friend.
Then I met her mother ! She definitely wore her emotions on her sleeve.
She came to school during an in-service day at Warning Hall. She came downstairs and looked in both rooms. Then looked up and asked, " How
did Leah got stuck with the older room."
Then she said to me," Okay! How did you sweet talk her into that! "
I helped her and her mother move into their Dyersville home. She thought it was great how my wife and I would help her with the move.
But, the most pleasant things I remember about Leah were the Christmas parties, and especially the first one at her place.
It was singing, laughing, dancing, and overall a total blast to be in her presence.
She made the sweetest punch!
Everybody was really enjoying the 1st one at Leah's place, including myself!
The following Monday, Sharon Osterhaus, asked me, "Did you enjoy Leah's punch"
I said, " Yes!!."
She then said I finished the last of it by drinking it out of the punch bowl. As I was blushing, I said quickly,
, "I didn't recall that, but I sure did have a good time!!."
We had more enjoyable parties, but it seemed when the party was at it's highest point, we looked around and couldn't find Leah, She always slipped out without anyone seeing her leave!
I was lucky enough to work with some great staff at Dyersville.
But, there was something special about Leah. I've known her for over 43 years and I never got in one single argument with her.
Even where we worked together on curriculum or went to science clinics.
Late in her teaching career, when we in different parts of a building or district, we still stayed in touch.
We would go out to lunch, sometimes with her mother and laugh about our lives.
If I saw her in Dyersville either in her home or out to eat, she would always ask not only about me, but also my wife Jeannie and son Donny.
She sent cards on my birthday every year and even found out my address when I moved to Ca, and sent cards!
Last Friday, when Jean Coppolla called and Sharon Osterhaus texted me about her passing, I was in a melancholy state for a few days.
But, a few days later, I was at a park in Redlands, Ca. and I sat there thinking this is the nicest day I ever saw in California!
Then I realized Leah McCool was in heaven cheering up God and me!!
Love ya forever, Leah !
Your Friend ,
Ray Lassance
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SHERYL WILHELM donated to THE FRIENDS OF THE JAMES KENNEDY PUBLIC LIBRARY
Tuesday, December 21, 2021
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Tuesday, December 21, 2021
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Peaceful White Lilies Basket was purchased for the family of Leah McCool.
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Our Deepest Condolences. Rick Fury, Tony Fury, Brandon Hedley.
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B
Barb Roling posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 21, 2021
Dear family,
We lived next to Leah for a few years in the apartment building on the corner of 5th Ave. and 3rd St. in Dyersville about 40 years ago. What a great neighbor and conversationalist! We remember her quick wit, fun stories, friendly greetings and how she always made us feel welcomed! We did not stay in touch, but Leah is remembered. Memory of her provides many smiles!
We offer you our sympathy and prayers, Jerry and Barb Roling
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Kathy Wilgenbusch posted a condolence
Monday, December 20, 2021
My sympathy to Leah’s family. I met Leah and Delores years ago when they were quilting and would shop at my shop, The Quiltmakers Shoppe in Manchester. I have many fond memories of their visits and helping them choose fabrics for their quilts. May your memories be a comfort to you and I hope you have one of their quilts to wrap you in a hug from them.
Sincerely, Kathy Wilgenbusch
K
Kamel Heitz posted a symbolic gesture
Sunday, December 19, 2021
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Sending thoughts to the family of Miss McCool. She was a wonderful teacher at Western Dubuque and I learned a lot from her. It was obvious how much she genuinely cared and wanted the best for her students. I was lucky to call her one of mine. As a teacher myself, I have a full understanding and appreciation of the quality of teacher she was. She will never be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Kamel Heitz
(former student)
D
Dave Maloney posted a condolence
Sunday, December 19, 2021
Most sincere condolences to Leah's family and friends. My contact with her over the past few years had diminished but I will always treasure the fond memories of jokes, teasing and trading ideas that we all experienced at the woodcarving meetings. Leah's talents and humor were always a delight and willingly shared with anyone who was wise enough to accept them.
I am sorry a hard schedule will prevent me from the opportunity of saying goodby in person, but I will attend in spirit and hold her in my thoughts and prayers.
Dave Maloney , Dubuque
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Sue Schuette posted a condolence
Sunday, December 19, 2021
God has blessed all of us who knew Leah and were fortunate enough to call her friend. She and I met our freshman year in high school and have kept in touch ever since. She always had a smile and a twinkle in her eyes. A beautiful person. She will be missed. My sympathies to her whole family.
C
Columbus High School Alumni lit a candle
Sunday, December 19, 2021
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Our deepest sympathy to Leah's family and friends.
I
Iva Sterner Hall uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, December 18, 2021
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Byron Avenue friends forever. Janet Freeman Christensen, Linda Bergmann, Iva McSterner Hall, Diana Kane Spence, Leah McCool, Trulla Patten Gruber.
We will deeply miss Leah's love and friendship.
Iva McSterner Hall
J
Jeanne Coppola posted a condolence
Saturday, December 18, 2021
So sorry for your loss. Leah was one of the 1st people I met when We started teaching for WD. A 51 year friendship that I am so thankful for. She will be greatly missed. Thoughts and prayers are with the family.
M
Miriam Eick posted a condolence
Saturday, December 18, 2021
In the wee hours of the morning on Friday, December 17, 2021 Our Heavenly Father extended His arms and embraced your sister, aunt, and friend to many with these words of love, kindness, and admiration: Leah, your earthly mission has been completed; therefore, come with Me into the Heavenly Kingdom where I have prepared a place for you. Because Leah was a woman of deep faith, she willingly and joyfully embraced the Heavenly Father and embarked on her journey to the highest heavens to be with those who have gone before her.
There is a dark cloud of loss hovering over our town at the present moment; however, because of the happy memories we have of this wonderfully woman, our sadness will be turned to joy. What a woman! Maybe some of you knew her due as a teacher, but some of us had the privilege of working with her at the James Kennedy Public Library. I recall the day Leah was at the Country Junction with her friends and she had just retired from teaching so she said, "Miriam, I am going to have to look for a part time job as I have too much time on my hands". I said to her, "Leah, you should apply for the part time job at the library". In a short time she was tending to the front desk. She was a delightful addition to our staff and referenced me as KIDDO. Leah made everyone feel special with her sense of humor.
Robert and I extend our sincere sympathy to each member of the McCool Family. Our thoughts and prayers are for you as you walk in the valley of darkness, but Leah has seen the Great Light. Merry Christmas, Leah. We will miss you and never forget you. Sincerely meant, The Eicks
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Donna vaughn purchased flowers
Saturday, December 18, 2021
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Donna vaughn
purchased the Medium Dish Garden and planted a memorial tree for the family of Leah McCool.
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From Bob and Donna Vaughn , Erin and Morgan Boyd
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Kimshiro Benton-Hermsen posted a condolence
Saturday, December 18, 2021
I am so, so sorry for your loss. Leah was one of my favorite people, and she will be greatly missed. Her smile and cheery "Hey, kid!" always made my day. She was loved by all who knew her and I can't believe she is gone. May good memories and her legacy of love and kindness comfort you all.
A Memorial Tree was planted for Leah McCool
Friday, December 17, 2021
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Dyersville Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of Leah Ann McCool uploaded a photo
Friday, December 17, 2021
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Wednesday
22
December
Visitation prior to Funeral
9:00 am - 10:45 am
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
Kramer Funeral Home - D
750 12th Ave. SW
Dyersville, Iowa, United States
(563)875-7121
Need Directions?
Wednesday
22
December
Funeral Service
11:00 am - 11:35 am
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
Kramer Funeral Home - D
750 12th Ave. SW
Dyersville, Iowa, United States
(563)875-7121
Need Directions?
Wednesday
22
December
Burial
11:45 am - 11:55 am
Wednesday, December 22, 2021
St. Francis Cemetery , Dyersville
8th St. NW
Dyersville, Iowa, United States
Need Directions?
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About this Event
In Loving Memory
Leah McCool
1948 - 2021
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Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book.
Who We Are:
For five generations Kramer Funeral Home has had the privilege of serving Dyersville, Monticello, Holy Cross and the surrounding area with dedication and compassion. With more than 135 years of experience, we can use our extensive knowledge of the field of funeral service to provide quality support and guidance.
Our Location:
Kramer Funeral Home Dyersville
750 12th Ave SW.
Dyersville, IA 52040
(563) 875-7121 FAX (563) 875-7019
Kramer Funeral Home Monticello
(319) 465-5400
700 Oak Street
Monticello, IA 52310
Kramer Funeral Home Holy Cross
(563) 870-2206
5754 Maple Rd.
Holy Cross, IA 52052
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