Dora E River

Dora Elena River, 87, of Waterloo, died Monday, February 23, 2026, at Nation Cottage of Western Home Communities in Cedar Falls.

She was born February 14, 1939, in Paraná, Entre Ríos, Argentina, the daughter of Angel Maria and Maria Ines (Fenochio) Feruglio.

While living in Argentina, Dora met Dale E. River, who was working for John Deere near her hometown. Their story crossed continents. They were married on December 22, 1969, in Rosario, Argentina, and built a life together rooted in family and community until Dale’s death on January 3, 2011. Together they were members of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Waterloo.

She pursued her love of education, earning her teaching degree from the University of Northern Iowa. Dora taught Spanish in the Cedar Falls School District, sharing her language and heritage with students at Peet Middle School and Cedar Falls High School for over ten years.

Though she made her home in Iowa, Argentina remained in her heart. She spoke Spanish at home, filled rooms with music, and loved to dance. She delighted in gathering people together and was a gifted hostess who believed every occasion was worth celebrating. Her home was a place of food, conversation, laughter, and connection. An avid reader, she cherished her book club and the friendships it nurtured. She also loved tennis, both playing and watching, rarely missing a chance to follow a good match. She had a natural ability to make people feel welcomed and seen. Her family was her greatest joy.

She is survived by her daughter, Regina M. River of Waterloo; her sons, Marc E. (Romina) River of Houston, Texas, and Ian F. River of Cedar Falls; and three beloved grandchildren, Camila E. River, Lucas D. River, and Andrew D. River. She is also survived by her brother, Edmundo (Adriana Wenger) of Buenos Aires, Argentina; her sister, Celina (Mario Turkenkopf) of Rosario, Argentina; many nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dale.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a time of sharing at 6:00 p.m., on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Locke at Tower Park.

Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice or Westminster Presbyterian Church.