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was united in marriage to the love of her life, Curtis Braem, on September 1, 1972, at St. Patrick's Church in Dubuque. They were blessed with 33 wonderful years together, and a truly adored son, before Curtis was sadly called home ahead of her on November 3, 2005. Mary Lea had a kind heart, and a caring nature, which served her well in her chosen profession of nursing. She invested many years of her career working in Chicago, Illinois and Bay, Indiana, before returning back to Iowa and graciously sharing her time and talents at Mercy and Xavier Hospitals, Dubuque Oral Surgeons, and also at the University of Iowa, before her eventual retirement. Mary Lea was undeniably a very active woman who thoroughly enjoyed a nice walk under the afternoon sun, or even a relaxing day of baiting her hook while waiting patiently for the catch of the day. But, where Mary Lea continually discovered true joy was in the moments where she was surrounded by her family. Her devotion and love for family and friends were routinely on display and if you held a special place in Mary Lea's heart, you could be sure she would always be there to remind you that it was so. We are absolutely broken hearted today with the sudden absence of Mary Lea from our earthly lives. The memories, lessons and love she leaves behind will be treasured by all who knew and loved Mary Lea and we pray that Mary Lea and Curtis' heavenly reunion is one of boundless joy. Thank you Mary Lea for diligently trying to make the world a better place during your 71 year journey and please know that we will miss you deeply until we meet again.Those left to cherish Mary Lea's memory includeher son,