Phyllis K. McDonnell

Phyllis K. McDonnell, age 70, of Bernard, IA, completed her earthly journey on August 6, 2026, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Phyllis’ life, a memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at St. Patrick’s Church-GarryOwen, 28914 46^th Avenue in Bernard, IA, with Rev. Steven Gardner officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Phyllis’ family.

Phyllis was born on October 8, 1955, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Edward J. and Helen J. (Hulse) Krueger.  She was impassioned with a love for family and friends which she honorably carried throughout her entire life.  Phyllis eventually found the love of her life, Richard I McDonnell and the couple was united in marriage on August 16th, 1975, and went on to be blessed with what would have been 51 wonderful years (in a couple of weeks) together and three sons whom she adored through each and every day of her life. 

Phyllis spent her working years outside of the home primarily at the True Value in Key West and finally with Fastenal before moving into retirement in 2023.  She made countless friends along the way and always enjoyed sharing her time and talents with those around her.

But, for those who knew Phyllis well, it was clearly evident that there was more to life than simply the days responsibilities to be addressed.  When the workday was done, you could often find her sitting comfortably with her latest good book in hand or tackling her next crafting project with unwavering motivation, (or socializing with Bernard family and friends).  When the opportunities arose where her family and friends could be by her side, those were truly her favorites moments in life.  Whether showing off her Euchre and Cribbage skills, playing games with her sisters, or simply working on the yearly festivities for Halloween, Phyllis’ heart was continually in her happy place when her loved one’s were nearby.  Regular trips to the local casinos with Rick were also a welcomed event and quality time together only required that they be together in some way, even if the slots weren’t hot that day.

It’s difficult to imagine a more committed and adoring wife, mom, grandma and sister than Phyllis in this world.  Her love and devotion were continually on display not only in her words, but evident in her thoughts and actions as well.  We are going to miss her more than she could even know, but even through the pain we discover a peace in knowing that the Lord shared such a wonderful gift with us throughout her 70 years among us.  Thank you, Phyllis for all of the memories and lessons you leave behind now and may peace be yours today as we wait patiently to see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Phyllis include,

her loving husband,

Richard McDonnell, Bernard, IA;

her three adored sons,

Brad (Angie) McDonnell, Peosta, IA,

Doug (Jen) McDonnell, Solon, IA,

and Mitch (Amanda) McDonnell, Palo, IA;

her grandchildren,

Austin (Kylie) Unsen, Tyler McDonnell, Allie Unsen, Melia McDonnell, Caleb (fiancé Melodee Rohlena) Manternach, Reid Manternach, Millie Manternach, Iris McDonnell, Sullivan McDonnell and Crosby McDonnell;

her first great-grandchild on the way due in December 2026;

her siblings,

Debi (Ted) Muntz, Stillwater, MN,

Nancy Noonan, Bernard, IA,

Jeanne (Kevin) Sweeney, Dubuque, IA,

and Jeff (Cathy) Krueger, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Helen Krueger; her sister, Micca in infancy; her father and mother-in-law, Ignatius and Carmie McDonnell; her step-father-in-law, Earl Decker; her brother-in-law, Ronnie Noonan; and her sister-in-law, Lisa McDonnell.

In lieu of flowers, a Phyllis K. McDonnell memorial fund has been established.

Phyllis’ family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care, with a special THANK YOU to Shelby and Ashley for their dedication, passion, and kindness towards Phyllis during her last weeks.

Online condolences may be shared with Phyllis’ family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com