Memorial

Dennis "Denny" Severson, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, passed away on July 3, 2026, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease.  

Denny was born in Radcliffe, Iowa on November 27th1941 to Everette and Dolores (Skrovig) Severson.   He was raised in Marshalltown, Iowa, and graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1959.  He went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force from 1964 to 1968 during the Vietnam War.  After his service, he returned home to Iowa and earned his business degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1969.  

That same year, Denny married his sweetheart, Patricia (Patty) Prusha, beginning a marriage that would span more than five decades. Aside from a short stint in Chicago, the couple made their home in Cedar Rapids, where they built their life and family together.  

Denny worked at Quaker Oats for 32 years in production management - a career that suited his sharp, organized mind and his love of a well-built spreadsheet.  

A devoted Hawkeye fan, Denny spent many years tailgating in Iowa City with a large and extremely fun group of friends, rarely missing a chance to cheer on the black and gold at Kinnick Stadium and many away games. He also treasured his fishing trips in Canada, wintering in Florida, international travel and a good barbeque. But above all, Denny loved his family and friends, and made sure they always knew it.     

Denny is survived by his wife, Patty Severson, of Cedar Rapids, IA; his daughter, Stacy Severson Doren and husband Ben Doren, of Nashville, TN; his son, Matt Severson and wife Barb Severson, of Cedar Rapids, IA; his three grandchildren, Peyton Earle (Iowa City, IA), Josie Doren (Tucson, AZ), and Max Doren (Nashville, TN); his sister, Jane Adams and husband Tom Adams of Waverly, IA; Sister in law, Jan Penney and husband Doug Penneyof Credit River, Minnesota; Brother in law, Mike Prushaand wife Theresa Prusha of Lakeville, Minnesota. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, and their children.  

He spent his last four plus years at Terrace Glen Village in Marion, Iowa.   His family has nothing but good things to say about the care he received from the staff. We thank them for the years of loving Denny and making his transition as easy as possible. Thank you also to Suncrest Hospice for the incredible team, helping the family feel supported and Denny’s last days being comfortable.  

Denny will be remembered for his loyalty, his dry sense of humor, and the love he had for his family and friends. He will be deeply missed.  

A Memorial Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 11:00 am on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories. Memorial service will take place after the memorial visitation and begin at 11:00 am.  Inurnment to follow at the Cedar Memorial Park Mausoleum, where Denny will rest.

 In honor of Denny please consider a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research to help fight this terrible disease (Michaeljfox.com),  or The Eastern Iowa Honor Flight (eihonorflight.org).