Mary Constance Matthess

Mary Constance Matthess, 68, Marion, Iowa and formerly of Tipton, passed away on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 in the quietness of her home. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 29th from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Fry Funeral Home in Tipton. Funeral mass will be held Friday, March 1, 2024 at 11:00 am, St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Tipton, Fr. James Flattery officiating. Graveside services with military honors will be held Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Oxford, Iowa. Online condolences may be shared at www.fryfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Mary’s honor.

Mary was born January 17, 1956 in Iowa City. She was the daughter of Maynard Orville Matthess and Dorothy Ceclia Cox Matthess. Mary graduated from Tipton High School and then enlisted in the United States Army where she served from 1976 to 1977. Following graduation from Capri Cosmetology School she opened her own salon, Designs Unlimited in Stanwood. She then managed Hardee’s in Tipton. She returned to her military roots and enjoyed working alongside her fellow veterans with Patient Services at the VA Medical Center in Iowa City. Throughout the years, she was a great support to her family. Many times, one could find Mary assisting her family in their businesses, John’s Repair Service in Stanwood, or alongside her brother at the Steel Wheel Lounge in Tipton. Her greatest joy in life was being a mother to Duane and a grandmother.

Mary is survived by her son, Duane, of Johnston, IA; grandchildren, Tavius, Tate, Isabelle and Landon; sister, Elizabeth Webb of St. Louis, MO; brothers, Barry Matthess of Marion, IA, Paul Matthess of Marengo, Ron Matthess of Tipton, IA and Don Matthess of West Branch, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Patricia Isaacs; brothers, Joseph Matthess, Michael Matthess, Lonnie Matthess.