Linda Conway

Linda CONWAY, age 80, of Apache Junction, Arizona passed away unexpectedly in her home on September 3, 2021. Her health had slowly been declining but her death was still a shock to her loving family and her many, many friends.

Linda was born July 30, 1941, in Belle Plaine, Iowa, to Margaret Benner Riley and Franklin (Weanie) John Riley. She is survived by her husband of 63 years, Don, her children and their families. Scott and Rhonda Conway of Cedar Rapids, Sheila and Dennis Fontinel of Apache Junction, AZ, Cory and Darla Conway of Blairstown, Melissa and Randy Macku of Livingston, Texas, and her sister Elaine Osborn Riley of Marion. She had 6 grandchildren, Chrissy (Russell), Matthew (Nicole), Marcus (Celena), Dustin, Derrick (Olivia), Caitlyn and 12 great-grandchildren.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Jane Riley Thompson.

She was so proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her nieces and nephew all meant the world to her too.

Linda worked with Don in their gas station and auto repair for 30 years. She also worked at Citizens State Bank as a teller. Throughout those years, many friendships were built that have lasted a lifetime. When Linda would go back to Iowa, she always stayed with her friend, Linda Clemons, and they would make many trips to the Lincoln Café and of course, the casino! She also enjoyed her get-togethers with her BPHS Class of 1959. Linda was also active with St. Michael's Church in Belle Plaine volunteering in many capacities. A major blessing for Don and Linda was when Father Jack Kissling began wintering in Arizona and the three of them enjoyed many good times together. She and Don moved from their family home in Belle Plaine to their home in AJ in 2003 and her volunteer work continued in multiple capacities. Although the distance from family and friends was difficult they thoroughly enjoyed living in AZ and appreciated the wonderful climate and the beauty of the mountains that surrounded them. Thanks to technology, the family stayed very close and relationships truly grew stronger. Linda was well known for her gift of gab and her great memory, especially of anything Belle Plaine related. She was an avid sports fan and was so looking forward to her beloved Iowa Hawkeyes football season to start. She was also a member of PEO in Iowa and Arizona.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her Arizona "family" thought the world of her and even gave her an early surprise 80th birthday party this spring before they all went back north and she loved it! Their love and friendships meant the world to her.

We found this poem in Mom's room the day after she passed and Dad wanted us to share it:

A Letter From Heaven

When tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not here to see;

If the sun should rise and find your eyes filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you wouldn't cry, the way you did today;

while thinking of the many things, we didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me, as much as I love you;

And each time you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.

When tomorrow starts without me, Don't think we're far apart,

for every time you think of me, I'm right there in your heart.

Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Care of Mesa, AZ is assisting the family. All are welcome to attend a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 11th from 1 -3 in the clubhouse at Shady Rest, 11435 E. Apache Trail Apache Junction, AZ 95120. A Celebration of Life will also be held in Belle Plaine, IA at a later date. Memorials can be directed to the Belle Plaine Area Museum, 901 12th Street, Belle Plaine, Iowa 52208.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mariposagardens.com for the CONWAY family.