Alicia Rose Vandermillen

Alicia Rose Vandermillen, 26, of Dubuque, IA became an angel on February 16, 2018.  The University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City took exceptional care of Alicia before she surrendered to complications from Pneumonia.  The family would like to thank them and the staff of the Finley Hospital in Dubuque for their excellent care.   

To celebrate Alicia’s life, you are welcome to pay your respects from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 with a short memorial service to follow at 7pm.  There will be a private burial ceremony held on Wednesday morning at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Alicia’s precious life began on October 3, 1991.  She was born in Dubuque to Mike Vandermillen and Kelly Uhlrich who will always thank God for the privilege of being her parents.

Though she was brilliant, she graduated from Dubuque Senior High School by the skin of her teeth after being bribed by her mother with a trip to Mexico.  She played by her own rules and knew she could wrap anyone and anything (including her diploma) around her finger with one flash of her beautiful smile.  That’s our girl. 

Beyond that smile, captivating eyes, and incomparable beauty, Alicia was born with more compassion then could ever be taught.  She was adored by all those that she had the pleasure to care for as Certified Nursing Assistant.  The crankier the patient, the more of a challenge, the more determined Alicia was to win them over.  And she always did.

Alicia was fiercely loyal, remarkably compassionate, determined, stubborn, loving, and of course a force to always be reckoned with – she was truly her father’s daughter.  Alicia had an unwavering love for every animal and as much candy as she could get her hands on.  Alicia enjoyed shopping and while she had enough clothes, purses, shoes and jewelry to outfit half of the country, she always seemed to find another reason to “pop some tags”. 

Alicia loved her family unconditionally.  She was affectionately called “Bear” by her Daddy who was her ultimate protector and champion. Her momma Kelly was Alicia’s biggest fan and in reverence, Alicia would scold anyone using the Lord’s name in vain.  Her stepdad Greg instilled a love for both the American Flag and the Iowa Hawkeyes.  Alicia was a favorite of her grandparents and had a special bond with her Aunts Lynda “Nina” and Melissa.

The love of her life, her best friend, and partner in crime was her brother, Michael Henry.  And vice versa, as evidenced by the tattoos they each bear of the other’s name.  Michael gave her two beautiful nephews, Jace and Liam.  No one will ever be able to replace the huge spot in his heart he has for her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her parents, Mike Vandermillen and Kelly and Greg Uhlrich; her beloved brother Michael and his sons Jace and Liam; and step-brother Dakota.  Alicia’s Grandparents are Larry and Rose Abresch, Joe and Sandy Vandermillen and step-grandpa Paul Uhlrich.  She is also survived by many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who loved her so very much.

Alicia was met in heaven by her Uncle Kenny, Aunt Beth, Great Uncle Ray and Greg’s mom Pat.

In lieu of flowers please be kinder than necessary to everyone you meet, regardless of their circumstance, and especially if they are Grandpa’s age.  That’s what she would have wanted.

Tough it out, that was Alicia’s attitude. It is our wish for all who read this to not take for granted the smallest sign of a true illness and please go to the Doctor.  Even the strong fall.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.