Crystal Lee Usher

Crystal Lee Usher

Marion

Crystal Lee Usher, of Marion, Iowa, got her angel wings on June 30, 2023, in her home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. At her request, Crystal was cremated. The Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Marion, Iowa, with a Celebration of Life beginning at 6 p.m.

Crystal was born on July 5, 1956, in Sheldon, Iowa, to Duane A. and Thelma E. Harmelink. She was a 1974 graduate of Spencer High School. She attended Mount Mercy College, graduating summa cum laude with a degree in psychology and criminal justice. From there, she went to law school at the University of Iowa graduating with distinction in 1981. Crystal practiced law in Cedar Rapids for 42 years, the last 25 of which were with her second family, Nazette Marner Nathanson Knoll. Crystal loved being a lawyer and often said, “You know, if I could come out of my shell, I could be pretty good at this lawyering thing.” In her 42 years, Crystal was a positive influence for many people.

As much as Crystal loved practicing law, she loved her family more. Crystal loved being a parent. Even though she worked full-time, Crystal made it to almost all the soccer, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball games and swim meets of her two children. She never just casually watched, but rather would keep the official book, line judge or referee. More recently, Crystal has enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren. She never left her children’s homes and they would never leave hers without hugs and an “I love you.”

Crystal never met a person she could not strike up a conversation with. Her theory was if you made eye contact, you should at least say something. She was definitely a people person with a sarcastic sense of humor and true desire to get to know others.

Crystal is lovingly remembered by her children, Gregory T. Usher of Marion and Maureen (James) Stott; a grandson, Landon T. Usher, and a step-grandchild, Scarlett Stott; two brothers, Jan and Todd Harmelink; and a special friend, Christopher Usher.

She was preceded in death by both her parents and her middle brother, Jay “Corky” Harmelink.

The family want to give a special thank-you for the loving care she received from Dr. Stroh, Traci Ridgeway and all the nurses who cared for her while she battled. She often said they made an awful journey tolerable.

Please direct all memorials to Hall-Perrine Foundation. It was her desire that women be able to receive clinical trials locally.

Please share a memory of Crystal at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.