Mary E. Konrardy, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa peacefully passed away on May 20th, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics with loved ones. Mary was a devoted Catholic, cherished teacher, and loving mother and grandmother. Her strong faith, kind spirit, and dedicated commitment to her community left a memorable mark on all who knew her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 29th, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a rosary to be held at 2:30 p.m.

Mary was born on April 22, 1947, in Dubuque, the daughter of Orville and Lucille (Kress) Conlan. She graduated high school from Visitation Academy in 1965. Mary then continued her education at Clarke College majoring in English and Spanish. During her graduate studies, Mary spent a semester in Mexico.

Mary began her teaching career at Davenport West and later moved to Dubuque where she taught at Washington Middle School and Dubuque Senior High School. After teaching for 33 years, Mary retired; however, she continued to substitute teach for a few years following her retirement. As a dedicated teacher, Mary inspired generations of students not only with her knowledge, but with her quiet strength and genuine care for others.

She married Roger Konrardy at St. Patrick’s Garryowen on July 20, 1973, and they were happily married for 45 years. Together in life as they are now in rest, Mary and Roger shared a deep and enduring love, built on laughter, spirited debates, and countless miles of road trips in their cherished restored cars. Whether cruising scenic countryside or enjoying a favorite diner, their adventures were always side by side. Passionate about politics, they could often be found in thoughtful conversation, exchanging ideas with warmth and wit. Holidays at their home were filled with joy, good food, and open arms, where family and friends gathered year after year. They found joy in the company of their children and grandchildren, with whom they shared stories, wisdom, and unconditional love. Their legacy of love, curiosity, and togetherness lives on in the hearts of all who knew them. Roger preceded her in death on February 20th, 2019.

Mary’s life was deeply centered around her Catholic faith. A daily communicant, she faithfully attended Mass and served as a Eucharistic Minister, finding joy and purpose in sharing the Body of Christ with others. She found solace and strength in the power of prayer, often spending time in Eucharistic Adoration and praying the rosary, both alone and in community. Her passion for life extended beyond the classroom and the church. Mary was an active member of Dubuque County Right to Life, where she championed the dignity of all human life with conviction and grace

Mary found joy and peace in the simple beauty of nature, especially in her beloved garden, where she spent countless hours tending to flowers that bloomed under her loving care. Her garden was not only a reflection of her creativity and patience, but also a place of solace and inspiration for all who walked by the house. Whether planting spring tulips or nurturing tomatoes and peppers, she brought beauty into the world one blossom at a time. Her love for gardening mirrored the way she lived—quietly, lovingly, and always making things a little brighter.

Mary was also extremely proud of her Irish heritage. Deeply connected to her roots, she found great joy in Irish traditions—the music that stirred her soul, the stories passed down through generations, and the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals that reminded her of family and history. Her home often echoed with the sounds of traditional Irish melodies, and she delighted in celebrating holidays with spirited cheer, hearty laughter, and the kind of hospitality that made everyone feel like family. Mary embraced her Irish identity not just in celebration, but in the way she lived—with resilience, generosity, and a fierce love for those close to her. Her legacy is one of cultural pride, warmth, and enduring spirit.

Mary is survived by her children Tony (Gretchen) Konrardy, of Dubuque, and Matt Konrardy (Cassie) of Dubuque; grandchildren Ryan and Olivia; siblings: Sister Patricia Conlan of Marion, Iowa, Francis (Darlene) Conlan of Bernard, Iowa, Doris (Allan) Sauser of Cascade, Iowa, and Dan (Barb) Conlan of Key West, Iowa, sister-in-law Gail Conlan of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, brother-in-law Ron “Zip” (Margie) Gassman of Bernard, Iowa, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She is reunited with her parents, her husband Roger, siblings Grace Gassman, Joe Conlan, and Ed Conlan.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Peg Nauman and Bob and Toni Backes for their unwavering friendship, kindness, and support throughout the years. Their presence in the neighborhood brought comfort, laughter, and a true sense of community that meant so much. A sincere thank you is also extended to the compassionate doctors and nurses at Mercy One and The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, whose expert care and tireless dedication brought comfort during difficult times. The family is especially grateful to the skilled and devoted medical transport teams, whose professionalism and care were a source of reassurance and peace. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The Maria House, 1561 Jackson Street
Dubuque, IA 52001. (563)-582-6286