Patricia Salama Obituary
Patricia "Dutch" Salama, 70, of Keokuk, passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington, Iowa.
She was born on February 21, 1955, in Keokuk, the daughter of Howard "Ted" and Marvel "Pete" Montgomery Derr.
On December 26, 1989, Dutch was united in marriage to Muhamed Salama in Burlington, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 18, 2002.
Dutch spent several years working as a secretary in Saudi Arabia, where she later met Muhamed. In 1994, they returned to Keokuk, where together they pursued business ventures as entrepreneurs.
She was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Keokuk, where she served faithfully in many capacities throughout the years. Dutch was active in the Effie Linquist Circle, Deaconess Board, Hospitality Committee, Bereavement Committee, and Creative Christians group, and she also served as a committee chairperson at different times.
In her free time, Dutch enjoyed quilting and sewing. Over the past five years, she lovingly created and donated more than three hundred quilts, many of which became cherished keepsakes for her family and friends. She also loved shopping and relaxing with her favorite television programs, including QVC, the Hallmark Channel, and Perry Mason. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family, especially during family dinners.
She is survived by her two sons, Bill Atterberg (Jessica) and Michael Bryant; six grandchildren; Lisa, Konner, Alisha, Trenton, Orion and Liam, two great-grandchildren; four sisters, Yvonne Derr, Cathy Derr, Jeanne Taylor (John), and Toni Glasscock (Mike); and a brother, Larry Derr. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and church family members.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Michael "Charlie" Theodore Derr.
A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 28 at the First Baptist Church in Keokuk with Pastor Bob Brandhagen officiating. Burial will be in the Charleston Cemetery in rural Donnellson.
Visitation will be held Monday, October 27 at the First Baptist Church in Keokuk with the family meeting with friends from 6 – 8 p.m.
Memorials may be made to the Effie Linquist Circle of First Baptist Church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit our floral store.
Published by WGEM on Oct. 22, 2025.