Valitha V. Dornbusch

Valitha Verona Dornbusch (née Sauerbrei), known affectionately as Val, passed away on August 22, 2024, in Mason City, Iowa, at the age of 76.

She was born on October 26, 1947, to Walter and Anna Sauerbrei in Readlyn, IA, where she was raised on the family farm. She graduated from Wapsie Valley High School then pursued cosmetology. She married David Dornbusch August 27, 1967, at St. Matthews Church by Erich Dornbusch, Dave's father. They settled in Mason City and raised 2 daughters. Val worked in beauty shops, a fabric store, the florist, as a baker, cake decorator, hostess, seamstress, at retail jobs, and volunteered for many things through her life. She was devastated when Dave passed away on October 5, 2006.

Val was a beacon of kindness and generosity, always prioritizing her family and friends. She was known for her positive outlook, never speaking ill of anyone and always bringing joy to family gatherings with her delicious food and warm, engaging presence. Her commitment to keeping family ties strong was unmatched, often ensuring that everyone stayed informed about family news.

She leaves behind a loving family; daughters, Kris Dornbusch and Lori Despenas (Peter); grandchildren, Alex Despenas, Cole Despenas (Jenna), Jenna Renendez (Brian); 9 great grandchildren, siblings, Willis Sauerbrei (Doris), Verlaine Hayes (Delbert), Virginia Sickles, Veronica Buhr, Walter Sauerbrei (Nanci), and Woodrow Sauerbrei (Cheryl), her sister-in-law Carolyn Sauerbrei, dozens of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews.

Val was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dave; her parents, Walter and Anna Sauerbrei; siblings, Willard Sauerbrei, Warren Sauerbrei (LaDonna, Marvel), Wesley Sauerbrei (Delores), Wayne Sauerbrei (Marilyn), Violet Jacobson (Bob), Werner Sauerbrei; brothers-in-law, Duane Sickles, Al Buhr, Erich Dornbusch and sister-in-law, Patty Sauerbrei. One nephew and two nieces also preceded her in death.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, from 5-7 p.m. at Major Erickson Funeral Home, 111 North Pennsylvania, Mason City, IA. The funeral service is scheduled for Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 1 p.m. at St. James Lutheran Church, 1148 4th Street SE. Interment will follow at Elmwood-St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family of Val Dornbusch. Val's life and legacy will be remembered fondly by all who knew her, as she truly made the world a kinder place.