Mary Donaghy

Mary Donaghy, 82, of Osage, formerly of Clear Lake and a native of Mason City, died, October 4, 2024, at Faith Lutheran Home in Osage, following a battle with pancreatic cancer.  Services were held October 15. Burial was in the Clear Lake Cemetery.   Those wishing to express their sympathies through a card or memorial in Mary’s name consider the Faith Lutheran Home Remodeling Project, or to the family in care of Larry Donaghy, 1314 Oak Court, Osage, IA 50461.

Mary Ziemann the daughter of Benedict and Maxine (Wilkinson) Ziemann, was born September 16, 1942, at Mercy Hospital, Mason City. She graduated from Mason City High School in 1960. After schooling Mary was employed for a time at Clifton’s Super Market in Mason City.  She later met her future husband Larry Donaghy. The two were married August 17, 1963, at the Evangelical United Brethren Church, Mason City. Following their marriage, they lived for a time in Mason City, then Waverly for a time before returning to Mason City, then spent few years living in Cedar Falls, 1968-72 and eventually moved to Clear Lake. 

Mary and Larry’s union was blessed with three children including a son David and two daughters, Rhonda and Tami. Her role as a wife, mother and grandmother was first and foremost in her life focus. She was always a loving life partner and team mate to Larry and nurturing mom to the kids.

Mary’s kind heart, passion in caring for others shone brightly in her years working outside the home for 16 years as a member of the “Direct Support Care Staff” when she was employed with Opportunity Village in Clear Lake. Mary, Larry and the kids had done some traveling over the year’s most destinations usually involved to visit relatives in Arkansas, Kentucky, and other places. They had also looked forward to a few fishing excursions to Northern Minnesota and Spooner, Wisconsin. She enjoyed playing 500 cards with Larry and friends, a friendly but competitive game of “Aggravation” with family and friends, and of course spending a few hours relacing while watching her favorite T.V shows, “Judge Judy” and “Dateline.” 

Her memory and legacy will be carried forward in the hearts and minds of her husband, Larry Donaghy, Osage; son David Donaghy, Osage, and his son Zachary (Amanda) Donaghy and their kids Vanessa, Joseph, and Walter, all Grimes; daughter Tami (Davey) Goodale, Osage, and their kids Chloe (Michael) Nielsen their children Oaklee and Askel, all of Forest City; and Tami and Davey’s son Justin Goodale, Osage; and deceased daughter Ronda Mennenga’s kids Ray (Shannon) Mennenga and Cole (Hinda) Mennenga. Also surviving Mary is her brother Benny Ziemann, Belvedere, Ill., special family member Laura (Ron) Carpenter, Mason City and their family, as well as other extended family and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, daughter Ronda June 5, 2015, grandson A.J. Mennenga, sister-in-law Dorothy Ziemann and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Andrews Funeral Homes in Belmond is in charge of arrangements.