Christy-Smith Funeral Homes

11/17/2025

Maria Rosa Magenheimer

Maria Rosa Magenheimer was, is, and forever will be my beloved Mom. Maria (aka Oma and Tante Ria) passed at the age of 87 on November 13, 2025, in Sioux City, IA. She was born Maria Rosa Gehringer on March 5, 1938, on a small farm in Rüdenau, Germany. Maria was the daughter of Anna (nee Heller) and Valtin Gehringer, and one of 9 siblings. They were a family of kind, generous catholic farmers.

She had many experiences as a young child during WWII, including 2 visits from the SS in which they tore crosses off the walls to hang Hi**er and swastikas in their place. Horrible. But her best experience was watching the American tanks roll into Rüdenau with our amazing soldiers who gave the kids oranges (which they had never had) and everything else they had including food, gas, and ci******es.

My mom was incredibly hard-working, strong, generous, often in charge of her younger siblings, and a super go-getter. At 21 years old, she was sponsored by her aunt and uncle in NY, Rosie and Herm, and bravely came alone by boat to the US, to work and earn dollars to bring back to her family. But her plan went differently than expected. She fell in love with and married my father Edward Magenheimer (now deceased) on December 8, 1962, in Poughkeepsie, NY. My mom chose to stay in America as a resident legal alien for the next 63 years, because she had also fallen in love with this wonderful country! During the next 20 years, she put her heart into being a mom, a good wife, homemaker, and a friend to many.

We belonged to St. Mary’s Church in Poughkeepsie NY, where she was a beloved soprano choir member. After, she was a member of Holy Name in Valhalla, NY, St. Stephen the Martyr in Omaha, NE, and lastly Mater Dei in Sioux City, IA. She often did volunteer work, sewing, and knitting. But my mom also loved her “Lunch Bunch.” A group of mostly German ladies, super close friends that had their weekly/monthly lunches lasting 7 or 8 hours! Those women could talk!! It was one of the main reasons I learned to speak German, so I could eavesdrop! My mom also loved her rosary group, meeting every morning at St. Stephen’s. Oma Ria also loved going to horse races with my dad (a racing fanatic!) and I.

Family and friend time were also very important to her. We went back to Germany every 3 to 4 years, and had many German family and friends visit us here in the US. At 50 years of age, she began a new career at Maragret Chapman home for disabled, as a seamstress for the donations department. My go-getter mom had, of course, become the Director of the Donations, Repairs, Distribution, and Housekeeping Departments when she retired 15 years later. At 65, my mom came to live with me, my then husband Joel Berry, and our children, Siobhan and Ed. We were blessed to have her living with us, so many wonderful memories. She adored living with her grandchildren Siobhan and Ed, and having many visits from Caitlin, Sean, and Liam (Joel’s 3 children from a prior marriage). She was a huge part of all their lives.

At the age of 80, she moved to Sioux City with my husband, Blake Uhl, and I. She had started to slow down, but still enjoyed her small walks, the dogs, and sitting on the front porch. She loved our family gatherings, baking German Christmas cookies, singing German songs, her Bill O’Reilly, and mass at Nativity when she was able to attend.

My beautiful mom is preceded in death by her parents, Anna and Valtin, and by many siblings, spouses, and relatives, including Anneliese und Edi, Paul, Paul und Paula, Josef und Getraud, Hubert und Alma, Michael, Annchen und Hermin, Ida und Eberhard, Rosie und Herm, and cousins Elfriede, Erika, und Pete.

My mom is survived by us, Susann and Blake Uhl, her grandchildren Siobhan, Ed, Caitlin, Sean, and Liam Berry, her sister Renate, and sister Erika und husband Terry.

A memorial service is planned for early January 2026 in Sioux City, IA. Details will follow. So many will miss her forever. Her love, spirit, kindness, sense of humor, and strength will live in our hearts until we all see the magnificent Oma Ria again.

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11/17/2025

Beautiful northern lights over the Funeral Home !

11/14/2025

Robert Watts

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Watts, who left us too soon on 11/13/2025. He was a free spirit, known for his warmth, kindness, and unwavering support for those around him.

A true friend to many, Rob had a remarkable ability to lift others up, offering a listening ear and a helping hand whenever needed. His generosity and compassion were evident in the countless lives he touched, always ready to be there for anyone who asked.

Rob had a passion for life that was infectious, embracing every moment with enthusiasm. Despite his struggles, he remained a source of love and support for his family and friends. His spirit will live on in the memories shared and the lives he impacted.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Warming Shelter in Rob's name. Contributions will help support those who are facing similar struggles and honor his legacy of kindness.

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11/13/2025

Vicki Rae Anderson

Vicki Anderson, 82, passed away surrounded by her family on November 13, 2025. She was born October 27, 1943, to Victor and Geraldine Jensen, and grew up with a deep love for family, friends, and faith.

On February 26, 1966, Vicki married Lowell Anderson. They were married for 55 years. Vicki was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell. She is survived by her children and their families: Jeff and his wife Sundee, with their children Christopher, Alex, and Casey; Amy Martin and her husband Curt, with their children Zach, Sarah, and Gracyn; and Jim Anderson, along with his dogs Cubbs, Gus and Dottie.

Vicki was endlessly creative. She ran home businesses decorating cakes and creating dough ornaments. Later she shared her talents while working at Heart and Hand Dry Goods Quilt Shop. She was an avid quilter, sewer, gardener, and baker.

Vicki led Girl Scout troops, conducted adventurous experiences for her children and grandchildren, and was a true “hockey mom”, building a rink in the backyard every winter. Her joy was in giving her family and friends unique events to remember.

Her faith was a big part of her life. For more than 50 years, she was an active member of St. James Global Methodist Church. She taught Sunday School, designed costumes for Christmas programs, and used her creative gifts to serve others on countless committees. Vicki will be remembered for her sense of humor, creativity, and the way she poured her heart into her family, her church, and her community. Her legacy lives on in every quilt she stitched, every garden she grew, and every memory she created with those she loved.

Memorial Service will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. James Global Methodist Church. A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 16, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at St. James Global Methodist Church.

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11/13/2025

Harold D. Sypersma Jr.

Harold Donald Sypersma Jr., 80, passed away on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at a Unity Point St. Lukes hospital in Sioux City, Iowa.

Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Mater Dei Parish ~ Church of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ with Fr. Peter Duc Hung Nguyen officiating. Visitation will take place one hour prior.

Harold was born on July 18, 1945, to Harold Sr. and Margaret (Johnson) Sypersma in Sioux City, Iowa. He graduated from East High School. Harold served in the United States Army, then in the Army Reserve, being honorably discharged in 1972. After his service, Harold returned to help his dad on the family farm and drove truck for Jack Martin. In his spare time, he loved working on and racing fast cars.

On October 11, 1969, Harold married Sandra Sue “Sandy” Treiber at the Cathedral of the Epiphany Catholic Church. A lifelong Sioux Citian, the couple moved outside of town to live on an acreage in 1982. Harold spent his career at Specialized Hauling, serving as the General Manager. However, during his retirement, he continued to work, delivering parts for Peterson Farms and Lieber Construction.

Harold was a member of Mater Dei Parish ~ Church of the Nativity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Sioux City Elks Club, and the Lawton Saddle Club. Harold loved spending time with his family and going to his grandchildren’s events. He loved going on camping trips, frequenting Yankton, South Dakota, trips to the Black Hills of South Dakota, and wintering in Arizona. Time with his loved ones was what Harold cherished most.

Harold is survived by his children, Shawn (Sheila) Sypersma, and Sheri Sypersma, his 4 grandchildren, Zach Sypersma, Kayla Sypersma, Chase Sypersma, and Colton Griffin; his brother, Kurt (Sally) Sypersma; his companion, Jeanette Schwartz; and several nieces and nephews along with other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold Sr., and Margaret; his wife, Sandy; an infant brother, Richard; and his brother, Kenneth.

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11/11/2025

never forget why!

11/10/2025

Frederick Thomas

Frederick Thomas, longtime Sioux City resident, died October 4, 2025, at Abrazo Heart Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, with his family by his side. He was 68.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Christy-Smith Resource Center, 1819 Morningside Avenue, with family present to greet friends. In accordance with his wishes, Fred’s cremation has taken place.

Frederick Thomas was born March 8, 1957 in Sioux City, IA to Clarence and Inez (Ollison) Thomas. He attended Sioux City public schools and graduated from North High School in 1976, where he starred in football, track, baseball, and basketball. He was crowned homecoming king in 1975, becoming one of the first African Americans in Sioux City to earn that distinction.

He was married to Pamela Hall for many years, and together they raised three sons whom they loved deeply.

A lifelong self-starter, Fred was an entrepreneur who held a variety of occupations throughout his life, including coach, correctional officer, and substance abuse counselor. Later, he pursued his love of fashion and opened two clothing stores: The Zone and Urbantown.

In addition to fashion, Fred–affectionately known as “Freddy”–was passionate about sports, fishing, and barbeque. He played running back at Morningside College and continued his love of the game as a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears. He could often be found at one of the many farm ponds outside of Sioux City, casting his lures for bass. At home, Freddy would often entertain family and guests by donning his chef’s coat and grilling or smoking anything from ribs to brisket and chicken. Those who remember Freddy will recall his gift for storytelling; he loved to spin yarns about his childhood and days as an athlete. He had magnificent comedic timing and could always make people laugh.

He was the proud father of four sons: Jason, Aaron, Jordan, and Beau. Also grateful for having shared his life are his ten grandchildren; one great-grandson; brothers, Eddie and Lester; and sisters, Faye, Barvetta, and Debra. He was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters: Jenny, Joy, Margie, and Patricia.

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11/10/2025

Frederick Thomas

Frederick Thomas, longtime Sioux City resident, died October 4, 2025, at Abrazo Heart Hospital in Phoenix, AZ, with his family by his side. He was 68.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 p.m to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Christy-Smith Resource Center, 1819 Morningside Avenue, with family present to greet friends. In accordance with his wishes, Fred’s cremation has taken place.

Frederick Thomas was born March 8, 1957 in Sioux City, IA to Clarence and Inez (Ollison) Thomas. He attended Sioux City public schools and graduated from North High School in 1976, where he starred in football, track, baseball, and basketball. He was crowned homecoming king, becoming one of the first African Americans in Sioux City to earn that distinction.

He was married to Pamela Hall for many years, and together they raised three sons whom they loved deeply.

A lifelong self-starter, Fred was an entrepreneur who held a variety of occupations throughout his life, including coach, correctional officer, and substance abuse counselor. Later, he pursued his love of fashion and opened two clothing stores: The Zone and Urbantown.

In addition to fashion, Fred–affectionately known as “Freddy”–was passionate about sports, fishing, and barbeque. He played running back at Morningside College and continued his love of the game as a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears. He could often be found at one of the many farm ponds outside of Sioux City, casting his lures for bass. At home, Freddy would often entertain family and guests by donning his chef’s coat and grilling or smoking anything from ribs to brisket and chicken. Those who remember Freddy will recall his gift for storytelling; he loved to spin yarns about his childhood and days as an athlete. He had magnificent comedic timing and could always make people laugh.

He was the proud father of four sons: Jason, Aaron, Jordan, and Beau. Also grateful for having shared his life are his ten grandchildren; one great-grandson; brothers, Eddie and Lester; and sisters, Faye, Barvetta, and Debra. He was preceded in death by his parents and four sisters: Jenny, Joy, Margie, and Patricia.

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11/07/2025

Madonna M. Clancy

Madonna “Donna” Margaret Clancy, 98, passed away peacefully on Thursday November 6, 2025, at Holy Spirit Retirement Home. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 AM on Friday November 14, 2025, at Holy Cross Parish-St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Sioux City, with visitation one hour prior at the church. Burial will be at Calvary cemetery. Condolences can be left for the family at www.christysmith.com

Donna was born on July 20, 1926, to Aloysius Theodore Fleskes and Othelia Anne "Tillie" Otto-Fleskes in Carroll, Iowa. She was the second oldest of 6 siblings, and, in the summer, loved going to her Uncle Julick’s general store in Mount Carmel. She remembered for his booming “Gol Docket, close the door” and the candy treats given to the local children. After graduating from high school, she went to nursing school, and, in 1950, cared for children with polio in Denver. She married Maclyn “Mac” Benjamin Clancy on November 29, 1952, in Fort Dodge, Iowa. They were married for 70 years. While Mac attended the University of Iowa, Donna was nurse manager at the VA hospital. Donna extended her family love and mothering by raising six children in Fort Dodge, the farm in Hornick, and finally in Sioux City, IA. Once the youngest was in school, Donna returned to her nursing career working at Mercy Hospital, and later at Westwood Care Center.

Donna created with skill and joy numerous sewing, knitting, and crocheting projects that are cleaver pieces of art. She enjoyed reading, travelling, cooking and spending time with her family, especially during the Holidays. Donna was a member of Saint Michael’s Catholic Church of the Holy Cross Parish in Sioux City and later attended Holy Spirit Retirement Home’s services.

Those left to cherish her memory are her 3 sons: Gregory (Inge) Clancy of Iowa City, Paul (Aimee) Clancy of Sioux City, and John (Valerie) Clancy of Sioux City; her 2 daughters, Patti (Rick) Jacobson of Dakota City, NE, and Kate Clancy and her significant other Jeff of Chaska, MN; 11 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Maclyn; son Brian Clancy; 2 grandchildren: Jennifer and Anthony; and 3 siblings: David Fleskes, Beulah Fleskes Clancy, Luanne Fleskes Halbach.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to Holy Spirit Retirement Home.

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11/03/2025

Donna Jean Goehring

Donna Link Goehring of Colorado Springs, CO, passed away on October 31, 2025, at the Healthcare Resort in Colorado Springs.

Funeral services will be held at Christy-Smith Funeral Home in Sioux City, IA, on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will take place from 10:00–11:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at 12:00 noon. As per her wishes, Donna’s body has been cremated.

Donna Link Goehring was born on June 16, 1941, to Willis and Buelah (Mabel King) Link. She grew up in Sioux City, IA, and graduated from East High School in 1959. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in Elementary Counseling from the University of South Dakota in 1963 and 1974, where she was a proud member of Chi Omega.

Donna began her teaching career in Minneapolis and later taught in the Department of Defense (DOD) schools in Anchorage, Alaska (1966–1968) and Germany (1968–1970). She also taught in Jonesboro, GA, as a Title III teacher. In 1969, she accepted a position as a sixth-grade teacher in Alton, IA, where she met Jerald Goehring—they taught across the hall from one another.

Donna and Jerald were married on June 19, 1971, at Grace United Methodist Church in Sioux City, IA. They both taught for one year in Cedar Rapids, NE, before moving to Westbrook, MN, where Jerald became Principal of the Elementary School. Donna served as a part-time and substitute teacher and coordinated the school’s Gifted Program.

Donna was also deeply involved in her community, serving on the Westbrook City Council from 1978 to 1996, including time as Acting Mayor, during which she was known for her positivity, dedication, and leadership.

In 1996, the couple returned to Sioux City, IA, to help care for Donna’s mother. Donna worked as an office clerk for American Family Insurance for one year before joining IBP (IAMS) in North Sioux City, SD, where she remained until her retirement in 2007.

Donna and Jerald made their home in Dakota Dunes in 1997, where they were surrounded by wonderful and caring neighbors. Donna valued her friendships deeply, especially with her high school friends, with whom she enjoyed many cherished outings over the years. She also had a love for crafting and sewing, often selling her creations at bazaars to support her church.

Donna is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Jerald Goehring; three children: Craig (Lynn) Goehring of Kansas City, MO; Bryce (Rachel) Goehring of Omaha, NE; and JaDee (Adam) Harsma of Colorado Springs, CO; and her brother, James (MaryBeth) Link of Omaha, NE.

She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Jenna Marie, Katherine Jean, Emily Christine, and Megan Elizabeth of Omaha, NE; Joy Lynn and Cody Alan of Kansas City, MO; and Sofie Jean of Colorado Springs, CO; as well as one step-grandchild, Collin Dusten of Kansas City, MO. She is also survived by her nephew, David (Theres) Link, and grandniece, Aideen Emaline, both of Omaha, NE.

She will be lovingly remembered by many cousins, nieces, friends, and acquaintances.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Willis and Buelah (Modrell) Link, and her sister, Betty.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Parkinson’s Foundation, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Diabetes Research, or Grace United Methodist Church in Sioux City.

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10/30/2025

Donna Jean Walker

Donna Jean “Jeanie” Walker, 90, of Sioux City, died October 28, 2025, at Accura Health Care.

Services will be at 10:00 AM on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Southern Hills Baptist Church, located at 4301 Old Lakeport Road, Sioux City. Reverend Bob Dillman will officiate. Interment will be at Memorial Park in Sioux City. Public Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 PM on November 2, 2025, at Christy-Smith Funeral Home, 1801 Morningside Ave, Sioux City.

Jeanie was born on October 3, 1935, in Springfield, Missouri, located in southcentral Missouri. Her parents owned and operated a country store, feed store, and post office in Huggins, Missouri. She attended a rural grade school in the community; she graduated from Houston High School in Houston, Missouri. She was a member of the high school band, orchestra, and drum corps for four years. She was a member of the high school clarinet quartet that won state honors. Jeanie’s father died when she was 16 years of age; this impacted her future. Her mother was therefore responsible for two farms and the businesses. Jeanie had to assist her mother with everything; they soon sold it all and bought a flower shop and greenhouse in Mountain Grove, Missouri.

Jeanie became a florist to assist her mother; she was delivering flowers when she met her future husband, Bill Walker. Much to her mother’s displeasure, she married Bill on October 15, 1955. Bill was employed at Boeing Aircraft and attending school at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas. Jeanie and Bill lived in Wichita for 7 years. During this period of time, two kids were added to the family – Gary, a son, and Kimberly, a daughter. Today, the family consists of six grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Bill and Jeanie lived in Houston, Missouri, from 1962 to 1965 due to a business adventure. In 1963, Bill accepted employment as a vocational technical instructor, which resulted in Jeanie and the family moving to Sioux City. A new Southern Baptist Church came to the south side of Sioux City, and Bill and Jeanie joined soon thereafter. Jeanie worked in the Morningside area at Flower Land as a florist designer for many years, specializing in weddings. Jeanie grew up in sales and always loved it; someone convinced her to become a family counselor at Memorial Park Inc., and she loved her job—sales and more sales. She loved it so much that Bill could not get her to retire, so he could. She finally joined him, and the latter years of their retirement were spent 6 months in Sioux City and 6 months in southern Texas, all sunshine.

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10/28/2025

Gary Lee Fridley

Gary L. Fridley, 81, passed away on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Grace United Methodist Church (1735 Morningside Ave). Memorial Service will take place at 11:00 AM on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Grace United Methodist Church with a Celebration of Life to follow service.

Gary Fridley, born on December 16, 1943, grew up in Burlington, Iowa, where he met the love of his life, Jan. Before their marriage, Gary joined the U.S. Navy, serving as a Chaplain’s Assistant. He served in Vietnam from March 1968 to March 1969, after which he was transferred to the Naval Reserves, serving until 1973.

Upon returning home, Gary married Jan and pursued his passion for music and education. He attended Morningside College, earning his degree in Music Education, and continued his studies over the years at the University of Iowa. Gary taught in the Sioux City Community School District for 31 years, inspiring countless students with his love of music. After retiring in 2019, he continued to share his talents as the Strings teacher for the Bishop Heelan Strings Program and taught in the Cherokee Community School District during 2004–2005.

Gary was a dedicated member of the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra for over 60 years. In 1980, he founded the Silver Strings Quartet, performing at weddings, events, and special occasions throughout the Siouxland area for more than four decades. In addition to performing, Gary gave private lessons, nurturing generations of musicians.

Answering a further call to service, Gary attended the Missouri Conference Licensing School and the Iowa School for Lay Ministry, where he earned his Pastor’s License. In 2012, he became Pastor for the Danbury and Charter Oak United Methodist Churches, guiding others through his steadfast faith. He was also a lifelong member of Grace United Methodist Church, where he served faithfully for over 60 years.

To many, Gary was a teacher, mentor, pastor, sponsor, colleague, stand partner, and friend. To his family, he was a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, and son. His wry smile, charming wit, and warm sense of humor will be deeply missed. Gary spent his life in service to God, sharing his love of faith and music, and touching the lives of all who knew him.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Jan; children, Sara and John; grandchildren, Kiley, Breann, Hannah, Jacob, and Connor; and brothers, Dale, David, and Jim. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Frances.

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