Author: Hayden Douglas

Karen Sue Angstead Brown, 83, of New London, died Monday, October 13, 2025, at Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House, West Burlington. She was born March 4, 1942, in Fairfield to Donald and Jean Ross Angstead. On January 27, 1961, she married Wilbur “Bud” Brown at the New London Methodist Church Chapel.

Karen was a 1960 graduate of New London High School and worked at the Flower Shack in New London, Bud’s Flower Shop in Mt. Pleasant and retired from the New London City Clerk’s office after many years. She was a member of the Community of Christ Church, Dover Museum, and New London VFW Post 7641 Women’s Auxiliary. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, flowers and plants, feeding the birds and squirrels, and loved her Yorkshire Terriers.

Karen is survived by her husband Bud of New London, sons Jon (Dawn) Brown, New London, and Michael (Trish) Brown, Sperry; one daughter Connie (Daniel) Norton, New London; a special niece Kathi who she thought of as a second daughter; one brother Don (June) Angstead of Mt. Pleasant; six grandchildren; Thomas, Aaron, Stacy, Kara, Alaina, and Bennett; Great-grandchildren Rili, Emma, Ella, and Archer; nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Sharon Nehring.

Visitation will begin at noon on Friday, October 17, at Elliott Chapel, New London, with family present from 4:00 PM- 6:00 PM. According to her wishes, her body will be cremated following the visitation with inurnment at a later date at Burge Cemetery, New London.

Memorials have been established for New London Fire and Rescue and Community of Christ Church.

Elliott Chapel, New London, is assisting the family and online condolences may be left at www.elliottfuneralchapel.com

 Dillon was born on May 7, 1994, in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, to James and Lori (Alberts) Becker. He grew up in Mount Pleasant, where he was surrounded by the love and protective spirit of his older brothers, AJ and Cameron. His childhood was filled with the close bonds of family, including his grandparents, Robert and Delores Alberts and Bernice and James Milton Becker.

 Dillon possessed a gentle soul and a kind heart that warmed everyone around him. He approached life’s challenges with remarkable patience and understanding, and his demeanor was consistently amiable and friendly. His gentle laugh a perfect reflection of his inner spirit.

 He found joy in the simple pleasures of life: his dog Fitz, riding his motorcycle, rounds of golf with his family and friends, and getting “rowdy” while playing video games online with his closest friends.

 Dillon was the cherished son, brother, and grandson his family adored. His younger sister, Grace, looked up to Dillon and remembers his sweet demeanor when they were together. His mother, Lori, fondly remembers Dillon as her constant tag-along buddy, always present and comforting her with unparalleled compassion throughout her life’s journey. His father, Jim, cherished their relationship, noting that Dillon was an open book who never caused a fuss. While Dillon cherished his mother’s love and support, he also shared a bond with his “bonus mom”, Candice Becker — where she was blessed to see his tender heart and the way he loved people so freely.

 Dillon’s sole remaining brother, Cameron, admired his patient work ethic, quiet discernment, and inner wisdom, noting his unique ability to remain calm and collected, amidst life’s abundant challenges.

 Dillon’s loss comes just over three years after the passing of his older brother and closest companion, AJ. The two were inseparable from the moment of Dillon’s birth, and he cared deeply for him.

 Dillon J. Becker will always be close to the hearts and minds of all who knew him. His family and friends will endure the road ahead by holding tight to the memory of his warm presence and gentle smile.

 Dillon can be described as having a quiet lion’s heart-steadfast and gentle-free at last to run into the light.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 18, 2025, at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Mount Pleasant. Rev. Ross Epping will celebrate the Mass. There will be no visitation. A Gathering of Grief & his Goodness to follow in Manning Hall.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Brothers To Infinity & Beyond; a charity fund (tax deductible) has been established; To honor AJ & Dillon and to provide the funding for education toward mental health & suicide awareness in communities throughout the area. Memorials may be sent to Lori at 1900 Audubon Dr. Waterloo IA 50701. Or to Luv Ya Like A Brother (a 501(c)(3) charity) to advance mental health awareness, expand access to care and suicide prevention resources, and provide scholarships to local students of character who champion mental well-being.

The Olson-Yoder Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Dillon and his family. www.olsonyoderfh.com