Obituary
Guest Book
Mrs. Dorothy Marie "Dot" Fields (née Feuerhelm), age 89, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Born on July 3, 1936, in Harpers Ferry, Iowa, Dorothy brought warmth and joy to all who knew her throughout her long and vibrant life.
She began her career in Washington DC where she worked at the Pentagon in the secretarial pool. She was a natural and worked as a legal secretary in downtown Cedar Rapids, where she retired in 2001.
Dorothy had a zest for life that shone through in everything she did. She found joy in planting flowers each season and took pride in nurturing them with care. Dorothy was a passionate bowler, and known for her signature pink bowling ball and matching shoes—symbols of both her playful spirit and attention to detail. In the kitchen, she was unmatched; family gatherings were made memorable by her culinary talents, especially her legendary potato (badato) soup. And she was a devoted Hawkeye fan.
Her home was filled with laughter and love-and occasionally a bit of mischief-as she had a habit of tidying up John's tools before he had finished his projects. Dorothy's sense of humor and nurturing nature created an atmosphere where everyone felt welcome and cherished.
Born just one day before Independence Day, Dorothy was proudly referred to as an "Early Firecracker." She embraced every opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, bringing light and energy into every room she entered.
She was a devoted wife to her beloved husband John G. Fields, who preceded her in death, as did their eldest daughter Carmen M. Fields. Dorothy's love for her family was unwavering and deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to be part of it. She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Valerie Hayes (Jim), Christine Schulte (Jack), and Vicki Fields; grandchildren Emilly (Brian) Davis, Myriah (Tim), Aaron Schulte (Kaeli), Ashley O'Neal, and Chelsey Hayes; and great-grandchildren Dylan, Camron, Kaleya, Tyler, Sophia, and Martial.
Dorothy's final days were made comfortable thanks to the compassionate care provided by Prairie Hills, Hospice of Mercy, and Meth-Wick health providers. Their support brought peace during a time of transition for both Dorothy and those closest to her.
Dorothy Marie "Dot" Fields leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and grace. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire kindness in all who carry forward her spirit. Visitation will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at Murdoch-Linwood Funeral Home, 520 Wilson Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, with a funeral service to follow at 5 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorials may be directed to the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center for Children, 200 Hawkins Dive, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, or Hospice of Mercy, 315 18th Avenue, Hiawatha, Iowa 52233.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
520 Wilson Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more