Obituaries Archive

Betty J. Griffin

Betty J. Griffin, age 92, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on December 3, 2025, at UnityPoint-Finley Hospital while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Betty’s life, a visitation will be held from 12:00-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street in Dubuque.  A parish scripture wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the church with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Family and friends of Betty are invited to join in food and fellowship at her Celebration of Life following her services from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at P.J.’s Pub & Hall, 3670 County HHH in Kieler, WI.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Betty’s family.

Betty was born on October 13, 1933, in Dubuque, IA, the oldest of four daughters to Tim and Helen (Smith) McCoy.  She was united in marriage to Robert Griffin on March 29, 1952.  They were blessed with six children of their own and spent a few years in New London, CT, before returning back to the Dubuque area and settling in Dickeyville, WI.

Betty spent the majority of her working years side by side with her sister, Pat Broessel at their Patricia Bridal Boutique.  She eventually retired from Barnstead Thermolyne.  Betty was also a devoted volunteer in our community and proudly served on the board for Crescent Community Health Center.

In her free-time, Betty enjoyed traveling whenever possible and exploring new places.  She was also naturally gifted in the kitchen and always enjoyed making her famous Betty Spaghetti and New London Grinders for family and friends.  Those who knew her best were quite aware that the holiday season was among her favorite time of the year as she could share her holiday candies and fudge with all of her loved ones.  We are going to miss Betty dearly and can only hope that the beautiful memories she leaves behind will help to heal our broken hearts in time.  Thank you, Betty, for always giving so much of yourself and allowing your love and light to shine vividly among the world around you.  May the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Betty include,

her six children,
Tim (Kathy) Griffin, Epworth, IA,
Russ (Kris) Griffin, Dickeyville, WI,
Julie (Jerome Koppen) Griffin, Dubuque, IA,
Dick (Ruth Hinzmann) Griffin, Platteville, WI,
Caroline (Mary Lebrecht) Griffin, Roscommon, MI,
and Rita (Dan) Barrett, Dubuque, IA;

her eight grandchildren,
Gage, Jayde, Ross, Rachel, Melinda, Dillon, Timmy and Brent;

her sixteen great-grandchildren,
Owen, Taylor, Brook, Carolyn, Ethan, Braelyn, Emrie, Benson, Marley, Oaklyn, Ila, Daxton, Faith, Blake, Brady and Halona;

her great-great-grandson,
Weston;

her sister,
Colleen Mohr, East Dubuque, IL;

her special nieces,
Cheryl Gerdemann and Shelly Bahl;

her special friend,
June Crimmins, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Dale Griffin; her granddaughter, Holly Amunson; her sisters, Pat (Bob) Broessel and Sally (Don) Cain; her mother-in-law, Naida Griffin; her brothers-in-law, Wes Mohr and Don Griffin; her nephews, Mike Broessel and Kirk Broessel; her niece, Laura Griffin-Atkin; and her former husband, Robert Griffin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Betty’s name to the St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Betty’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to extend a very heartfelt thank you our dear friend, Rita Barrett, for all of her love, time and support over the years.

Online condolences may be shared with Betty’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Beverly L. Knockel

Beverly L. Knockel, 77, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Monday, December 1, 2025, at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque.

A celebration of life will be held at Eagle Point Park this summer. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

She was born August 20, 1948, in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert and Rita (Kane) Knockel. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1966 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Clarke College in 1995.

Bev worked for John Deere from 1969 to 2001, for Hansel Realty from 2003 to 2004, Roth & Henkels Law Office from 2005 to 2008, and for Wartburg Theological Seminary from 2008 to 2010. She also volunteered for Make-A-Wish and Sacred Heart Catholic Church as a lector.

Bev was generous, kind, and giving. She had a large personality and made everyone feel welcome. She was known for entertaining her family, friends and co-workers. Her delicious meals and treats were enjoyed and appreciated by many. Christmas was a special season for Bev and Nora. Her beautiful tree and wonderful Christmas village made her known to many as “Ms. Christmas”.

Bev is survived by her brother, Gary (Joan) Knockel of Lakemoor, IL; niece, Liberty Tupper of Des Moines; great nieces and nephews: Abigail (Adam) Koch of Cedar Falls, Gillian (Garrett) Danilson of Madrid, IA, Morgan Tupper of Des Moines, Gabrielle Fulks of New Mexico, Kimber Bates of Lexington, KY, Drew Fulks of Richmond, KY; great-great nieces and nephews, Andi Koch, Sage Danilson, Daisy Danilson and Axel Koch; and special family friend, Patty (nee Howard) Bennett

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Knockel and Rita Lucas, siblings, Robert Knockel Jr., Nancy Reuter, and John Knockel, nephew, Andy Fulks, and lifelong friend Nora Lutes.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Diane Knockel, the Dan and Joan Knockel family, Terry Link, Dave and Julie Keck, the Sunnycrest staff, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion of Bev.

Donna F. Camp

Donna Fay Camp, 86, of Guntersville, Alabama, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025, in Alabama.

Donna Fay Croce was born on December 30, 1938, in Canton, Iowa, to Leo and Gladys (Bickford) Croce.  She was united in marriage to Bobby Camp on July 2, 1958 in Fort Hood, Texas.

Donna was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.  She loved watching football and was an avid Denver Broncos fan.  She cherished her time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Donna also loved Elvis Presley and had tons of souvenirs, having one of his scarfs from a concert.  She also enjoyed visiting Graceland.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Carolyn (Rick) Stanley of Guntersville, Alabama, Bobby (Molly) Camp of Guntersville, and Greg (Toni) Camp of Maquoketa; sisters Maxine Flock of Maquoketa and Wendy (Bill) Hainstock of Delmar, Iowa; brother Leo “Butch” Croce of Maquoketa; and 7 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bobby, sisters Janis Seay, Monna Cleary, and Kathy in infancy; and her brother Billy Croce.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 12 P.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Timothy Lyons

Timothy J. “Tim” Lyons, age 57, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Tim’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Tim was born on January 17, 1968, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Dale and Dixie (Carner) Lyons.

Tim attended Prescott Elementary School, Dubuque Senior High School and graduated from Waterloo High School.  He had many hobbies including collecting baseball cards, shooting pool, playing cards, fishing and looking for bargains at the thrift store.

Those left to cherish Tim’s memory include

his siblings,
Jean (Dan) Allen, Dubuque, IA,
Reva Lyons, Waterloo, IA,
Eric Lyons, Dubuque, IA,
Dale Lyons Jr., Dubuque, IA
and Steve Lyons, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents.

Tim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital for their kindness and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Richard W. Merrihew

Richard Wayne Merrihew, age 93, was born as the only child to Bert Loyd & Florence Mary (Moulton) Merrihew January 2, 1932, in Bethany, MO. He passed away peacefully December 2nd at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque Iowa, with his family at his side.  To celebrate Richard’s life family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at GracePoint Church, 3100 Windsor Avenue.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., at the church.  Burial will be at a later date in Oakland Memorial Cemetery, Oakland, Nebraska.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Richard’s family.

As a young child, he grew up on the Merrihew Ranch in northwest Nebraska near Ashby, NE until second grade, then continued to live in Bethany, MO, where he graduated from high school in 1949. He later graduated with an Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree from the International Correspondence School and Capitol Radio.

He married Shirley Ann Wedergren on July 25, 1953, in Oakland, NE, by the Evangelical Free Church Pastor.  They were married 67 wonderful years. She was his soul mate and the love of his life. She went to heaven March 30, 2020.

He worked as an Electrical Technician/Engineer most of his life starting at Consumer Public Power in Nebraska in 1949, and retired from Interstate Power in Dubuque, IA in 1998. The major part of his employment was with Public and Private Power.

He served in the Marine Corp from 1951 to 1952, during the Korean War as a Weapons Instructor. He became an Amateur Radio operator in 1958, he had an Extra Class License, his call letters were KØPLX and he enjoyed being an active member of the Great River Amateur Radio Club in Dubuque, IA. He enjoyed motorcycle riding, gardening and talking on his amateur radios to people all over the world. He also had a great passion for the pre-born children in this world and gave many prayers, contributions, and Ultrasound equipment to The Clarity Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa and the Heartland Pregnancy Center of Ottumwa, Iowa. He and Shirley were always hosting family and friends at their home. They loved supporting missionaries all over the world, even going to personally visit some of them in Africa.

When he was 22 years old, he made the most important decision in his life. He started a personal relationship with the Son of God, Jesus Christ. This relationship changed his whole world view and how he lived out his life of integrity, honor, diligence, and hard work.  He was an active church attendee at many churches in the Dubuque area, most recently GracePoint of Dubuque Iowa. His greatest wish is for every person he knows to also have that same relationship and to know God as Creator of the universe and have a close friend through a relationship with Jesus Christ. If you want to know more how to have that personal relationship you can ask any of his daughters about this “Good News”, so that you too can experience eternal life in heaven and meet him and Shirley again in eternity.

He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley in March 2020, parents Florence Merrihew when he was 16 years old, and his father Bert Merrihew in 1987, and son Michael Harold Merrihew in 1960.

He is survived by daughters Zelda Mae (Mark) Anderson and children Michael Anderson & JinHee (Gage) Martin, and daughter Anna Lee Murphy and daughters Fallon Murphy & Heidi Murphy & her son Isaac Birch, son Elijah Birch & fiancée Katie Wright great great granddaughter Alaiya, daughter Adaya Birch & son Ozieah Murphy, and Sara Lynn (Zbig) Piekielny and daughter Jadwiga (Greg) Hinzpeter.

Cards and memorials in Richard’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Richard Merrihew Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Aurelia J. Ewers

Aurelia J. “Rae” Ewers, age 81, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Aurelia’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue.  Funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday at Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Jeffrey Frieden officiating.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Aurelia’s family.

Aurelia was born on January 1, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Leo and Doris (Howell) Neyens.

Rae was raised in Keokuk where she graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School.  She went on to attend St. Mary’s College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and then studied fashion design in Chicago.  After school, she returned to Iowa and settled in Iowa City.  Rae met the love of her life, Richard Ewers, when the two were in kindergarten.  They began going steady when they were just 16, and married on August 27, 1966, at St. Mary’s Church in Keokuk.  She was employed with Hills and Dales for 25 years until her retirement.  Rae loved her work there and served as guardian for some of the residents.  Rae’s faith was very important to her.  She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church since 1973.  She was a member of the Rosary Society, helped with the hot lunch program, and for 20 years, Rae and Richard worked Bingo at the church.  She was an extremely talented seamstress, made beautiful cross stitch and needle craft pieces, and loved decorating her home.  Her family meant the world to her, and she loved spoiling the grandkids.  Rae was a wonderful wife, mom, grandma and sister who will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Aurelia’s memory include

her husband,
Richard Ewers Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Jeannette (Michael) Holzinger, Marion, IA
and Richard “Rick” (Barbara) Ewers Jr., Belleville, IL;

3 grandchildren,
Ryan (Hannah) Ewers, Rylie Ewers and Raegan Ewers;

2 great-grandchildren,
Jameson and Oliver;

her siblings,
Rita (Tim) Hickey, Montrose, IA
and Ruth (Alfred) Lorenson, Monroe City, MO;

and a sister-in-law,
Susan Neyens, Hawaii.

Aurelia was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Leo “Lanny” Neyens.

Rae’s family would like to thank the entire staff of MercyOne Dubuque for the compassionate care they provided for Rae.

Memorials in Rae’s name may be given to the Dubuque Humane Society or to your local animal shelter.  Cards in Rae’s memory may also be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Aurelia “Rae” Ewers Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Margaret A. Fox

Margaret A. “Peg” Fox, age 69, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at home.  To celebrate Peggy’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:45 p.m., on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Monday at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Peg was born on February 4, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, the first born to Wayne and Nancy (Grant) Ellerman.

She married the love of her life, Michael Fox, on June 8, 1973.  Together they had 3 beautiful daughters, Tanya, Nicci and Liz.  Family was always first and foremost to Peg.  From helping raise her siblings, to making all her children and grandchildren feel as if they were the only person in the world.  Her selflessness and generosity will be remembered by all.

Peg will be dearly missed by her husband, Mike, daughters, Tanya (Patrick) Kress, Nicci Curran and Liz Dunahoo, her mom, Nancy, sisters, Connie and Carla, as well as her brothers Dan and Bob.

Peg loved her grandchildren deeply and made a deep imprint on each one.  She will be missed by Jordan, Paige, Jade, Trae, Zeke, Evan, Courtney, Daniel, Chloe, Luke, Olivia, Aidan, Wyatt, Joey and Cooper.

As if that’s not enough, her great grandchildren include, Isabelle, Violet, Ember, Maverick, Ophelia, Syre, Roman and Cassius due on December 6.

Those who welcomed her home include her dad, Wayne, her brother, Kenny, her sister, Dianne, her in-laws, Evie and Bob, as well as many friends and relatives.

Peg’s family would like to thank the Dubuque Police Department and the Dubuque Fire Department and Paramedics for their fast response and compassionate care.

Cards and memorials in Peg’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Peg Fox Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

John G. Lincicum

In sadness, we announce the passing of John G. Lincicum, 86, of Elizabeth, IL, who died on Monday, December 1, 2025, at UPH Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA. A gathering will be held from 5 to 7 PM on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL. Burial of the cremated remains will take place at a later date.

He was born on January 6, 1939, in Warren, IL, to John L. and Esther (Barker) Lincicum. John was a lifelong farmer who loved the land dearly. He served in the National Guard for 8 years, joining in 1957 and leaving in 1965, where he worked as a cook. He also worked as a cook at the Silvia Dotsel restaurant in Elizabeth. John was a dump truck driver for various construction companies. He loved to drive and travel, working as a tour bus driver for many years, which took him to three countries and 39 U.S. states. John loved to show Johnny and Mouse (his son John and granddaughter Kathryn) all the places he had traveled by pointing them out on an Atlas. He also loved working outdoors on the farm, in the yard, or fixing cars; he could repair just about anything. Some of John’s favorite activities included cooking for others, reading history books, watching old cowboy movies, telling stories, spending time with family, looking at old tractor books, and listening to “In the Garden” by Alan Jackson.

He married Mary Elizabeth “Betsy” Uecker on September 1, 1972, and they separated in 1991. Known as “Big John,” he was famous for making people laugh, his incredible strength, and his selflessness, especially towards animals, particularly his beloved dog Cocoa. John loved to make others laugh and was quick with sarcasm and jokes. He was a wonderful grandfather and had a close bond with his granddaughter, Kathryn. They shared a secret handshake called the lumberjack handshake, which they performed every time they saw each other and had been doing for about 16 years.

A born farmer, John was powerful; a memorable instance was in the parking lot of the old school in Elizabeth, when, at age 51, he impressively lifted the back two tires of his son’s 1984 Toyota pickup off the ground using just his fingers—something three high school boys couldn’t replicate. In his late 20s, while working on a 1953 Buick Century, he lifted a Buick Nailhead V-8 engine over the grille of the car, about 660 pounds. During National Guard training, he carried an injured fellow soldier and their gear for about 3 miles, eventually saving his life by jumping on the back of a tank while holding the soldier and their gear. John loved animals deeply. Once, he pulled over on the side of the road to rescue a coyote hit by a car, placed it in the backseat of his pristine 1961 Buick Electra, and brought it home to care for it alongside his other dogs, even feeding it bacon. A selfless man, John would give you the shirt off his back or his last dollar and loved to help others whenever he could.

John is survived by his son, John H., of Elizabeth; two granddaughters, Kathryn Clancy-Lincicum of Fargo, ND, and Abigail (Blake) Howerton of Kansas City, MO; a sister, Carol Woker; and a close friend and mother of his grandchildren, Colleen “Kelly” Clancy-Lincicum.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Harold, Roger, Marjorie, Dorothy, Beulah, Jean, and Bessie, and a grandson, Kayne Clancy-Lincicum.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Sandra M. Hahn

Sandra M. “Sandy” Hahn, aged 61, of Bellevue, Iowa, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a memorial service with sharing time will be held at 1:00 p.m. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com.

Sandy was born on April 14, 1964, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Milton and Corrine (Weiner) Chapman. She Married John D. Hahn on September 6, 1996, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sandy graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1982 and earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of Iowa in 1987. She built a fulfilling career in publishing and design, beginning at Wm. C. Brown Publishing/Times Mirror Higher Education and later working with McGraw Hill and S4Carlisle Publishing Services. She concluded her career at McGraw Hill as a Senior Content Services Manager. Sandy was passionate about her work, admired for her dedication and creativity, and cherished the many lifelong friendships she formed with colleagues along the way.

Outside of work, Sandy loved spending time with family and friends, whether cooking feasts in the kitchen, enjoying winter evenings in the “game room,” or relaxing by the pool in summer. Her greatest joy was time spent with her granddaughters, who she adored beyond measure. She treasured weekends camping in Hatfield with the Lake Eleanor bunch, nights out with her high school crew, and dinners shared with her siblings.

She is survived by her husband John; daughter Breanna (Kody) Sieverding, of Bellevue, stepdaughter Whitney Hahn, of Oskaloosa, IA; four granddaughters: Lydia Kay Sieverding, Ella Marie Sieverding, Willow Isabelle Hahn-Lefler, and Everly Rose Rogers. Siblings: Rick (Pam) Chapman, Lynn (Dan) Schlueter, Dan (Jody) Chapman all of Dubuque. In-laws: Dan Dodds, of Dubuque, Juanita Chapman, of Florida, Pete Lindecker, of Dubuque, Peggy Fennimore, of Iowa City, IA along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; mother and father-in-law Colleen VanDee and Robert Hahn; siblings Debbie Dodds, Mike Chapman, Patti Lindecker, nephew Chris Chapman.

In lieu of flowers a Sandy Hahn memorial fund will be established.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the health care professionals at UnityPoint Finley Hospital, the University of Iowa Hospitals, Dr. Mark Hermann and the team at Wendt Regional Cancer Center, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Diane, for their compassionate care and support. They also wish to express deep gratitude to their beloved “bonus family,” Kevin and Janet Sieverding, Kari and Curt Ernst, Kati and Chris Ernst, Kortni and Jake Gerlach, and their families, whose love and presence brought comfort and strength during Sandy’s illness and passing.

LeRoy W. Reeg

LeRoy W. Reeg, 84, of Dubuque, died Monday, December 1, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for LeRoy will be at 10:30 am on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Dave Roth officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

LeRoy was born May 29, 1941, in Bellevue, IA, the son of William J. and Edna G. (Ernst) Reeg. On August 18, 1962, he married Jeanne Marie Regan in Rickardsville. She preceded him in death on April 29, 2024.

LeRoy was raised on the family farm until he went on to work as a machinist at John Deere Dubuque Works retiring in 1990 after 30 years. Not one to sit still, after retirement he went to work at Cedar Cross Overhead Door in the warehouse for several years.

LeRoy was a skilled mechanic whether it be at work or in his personal life. He was recognized with multiple Innovation Awards during his time at John Deere. He also took great pride in restoring his 1933 Chevy street rod and 1984 GMC truck. He also built the cars he raced in drag competitions, achieving notable success when he won the World Series of Cordova in 1973 with his ’69 GTO.

In his spare time, LeRoy was a passionate fan of the Iowa State Cyclones. He loved time spent outside with a cold beer in hand and always offered one to anyone that would come visit. LeRoy was known to maintain meticulous landscaping and spotless vehicles. Above all, he found his greatest joy in being with his family; attending his grandchildren’s events, gathering for family celebrations, playing euchre, or enjoying camping and fishing trips with the whole family.

Hard work and determination were one of dad’s strongest beliefs and with the fruits of his labor, he built a lifetime of love and happiness for his family. Our dad, the man with a heart of gold!

Survivors include his four children, Randy (Andrea) Reeg of Dubuque, Russ (Nicci) Reeg of Asbury, Ryan (Sandy) Reeg of Dubuque, and Rachel (Scott) Reeg-Kernall of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Austin, Wes (Adam), Mackenzi, Bailey (Kenny), Lexi, Charlie, Brandon, and Lily (fiancé, Anthony); three great-grandchildren, Sophia, Desmond, and Ruby; one sister, Arlene Victor of Bellevue; and one brother-in-law, Norb Lampe of Dubuque.

Besides his parents and wife, LeRoy was preceded in death by six siblings, Bill (Marion), Bob (Darlene), Ed (Dorothy), Carly (Betty), Perly (Katie), and Linda Lampe; and his beloved dog, Misty.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the staff at Luther Manor and the nurses and staff with St. Croix Hospice, especially Keisha, Amanda, Jackie, and Marie.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting LeRoy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

De Loras Fortman

De Loras “Dee” Fortman, 96, of Dubuque, died Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until 10:15 am on Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for De Loras “Dee” will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at St. Paul’s Catholic Cemetery in Worthington, IA.

Dee was born on March 10, 1929 to Alford and Rose (Friedman) Fortman in Farley, IA.

She attended St. Joseph’s grade and high school in Farley, until her senior year, when the family moved to Dubuque, she graduated from St. Columbkille High School. After graduation, she started a 39 year career with the Telephone Company and transferred to Cedar Rapids as an instructor, retiring in 1985 as a Network Administrator. She then volunteered at the American Red Cross for a number of years. She belonged to the Telecom Pioneers and the Neuropathy Support Group. In 1953 Dee and her special friend and companion, Margaret Oppelt, took a cruise on the Steamship, Queen of Bermuda. That event was the start of many memorable cruises and travels over the years. Dee and Margaret were so blessed to enjoy 20 winters in Arizona. Margaret preceded her in death on August 16, 2017.

Dee had a very positive and hopeful attitude, she was compassionate and very generous. She especially enjoyed number games-Ken Ken and Numbrix, was a Lazy Boy Hawkeye fan and enjoyed casino hopping.

Dee is survived by a brother, Gary Fortmann of Burien, WA; sister-in-law, Ruth Fortman of Bettendorf, IA; nephews, Dan (Karen) Goedken, Randy (Karen) Tigges, Greg Fortman, Troy (Kris) Fortmann and Scott (Linda) Fortmann; nieces, Sherry White, Kay Fain, Pam (Steve) Heinz, Judi Jenaman, Carrie Fortman, Robin (Bryan) Potratz, Paula Fortman, Lyn Fortmann, Lea (Mark Giangiordano) Fortmann, and Kalani Goedken; and many grand nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Vernella (Joe) Goedken and Elizabeth (RC) Bach; a brother, Ralph; sister-in-law, Janice Fortmann; one niece, Sandy (Jim) Koelker; and three nephews, Dave Goedken, Dion Goedken, and Chad Koelker.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Dee’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Betty A. Janssen

Betty A. Janssen, 92, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on December 3, 2025, at Grand Meadows-Luther manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Betty may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.  Services for Betty will be held at 10:30 a.m. at the Funeral Home on Saturday, December 6, 2025, with pastor officiating.   Burial will be held in Highview Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born August 25, 1933 in Epworth, Iowa, daughter of Melvin and Eleanor (Meyer) Schmitt.  She received her education in the Epworth area schools.  On November 7, 1953, he was united in marriage to Kenneth Janssen at the Epworth United Methodist Church in Epworth, Iowa.  The couple farmed in the rural Epworth area.  Ken preceded her in death on January 26, 2001.

She was a true farmer’s wife, she milked the cows twice a day, fed the calves, she had a huge garden and canned all the produce.  She was a terrific wife, mother and grandma.

She is survived by her children, (Terry Smith) of Pocatello, ID, James (Mary) Janssen of Farley, IA and Laurie Beth Janssen of Epworth, IA; 2 grandchildren, Kristine Jubeck and Aaron Janssen; and one great grandson, Vincent Jubeck; a brother Michael Schmitt of Epworth, IA; a sister, Sally Hentges of Dubuque, IA.

She is also preceded in death her parents; a daughter Carrie Janssen-Smith; and a son, Jeffery Janssen on Dec. 2, 2019; a brother, Robert Schmitt; a brother-in-law, Caarl Hentges.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Patricia L. Green

Patricia L. Green, 83, of Cascade, Iowa passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at her home in Cascade, Iowa.

Services for Patricia will be held at a later date, to be announced.

She was born December 3, 1942 in Cascade, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Georgene (Coyle) Klostermann.  She received her education in the Cascade area schools.  On September 30, 1961, she was united in marriage to Carl Green at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.

She is a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by her husband, Carl J. Green of Cascade, IA; a daughter, Julie (Melvin) Staner of Cascade, IA and two sons, Kelly (Karen) Green and Kevin (Shawn) Green both of Monticello, IA; eight grandchildren, Cheryl Staner, Michelle (Cal) Trumm, Nic Staner, Joshua Long, Zachary (Ashley) Long, Alex Green, Brianna Green and Alissa (Jorge) Espinoza; 13 great grandchildren, Carter, Blake, Sadie and Evan Trumm, Ethan and Whitney Long, Talan and Tate Long, Havannah, Paisley, Ellis, Enzo, Zayden Espinoza; a siblings Carol Grom of Hawick, MN,  Frank (Diane) Klostermann of Atkins, IA; a brother-in-law, Bill Green and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by a daughter, Carla Green; her parents; a brother, Willie Klostermann; a sister Diane  Jaeger; and her in-laws, Patsy, Paul, Gil, Beth and Ruth.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Anthony Fiegen

Growing up, he was Tony. The oldest Fiegen boy. The one that looked like Val Kilmer. He was the most fashionable of the family, and the only one to become a cosmetologist like his dad. He was so kind, and quiet on the outside, but if you really knew him, you would know and love his goofy side. He loved to dance and sing along to old rock music. He had the biggest heart.

Tony was the most kind and thoughtful soul. He was always thinking of others and doing what he could for them. He was down for anything – watching movies at home or going out to eat good food or just driving around on a nice day.

After graduating from Loras College and Capri, he spent time teaching at Capri in Madison and worked several years as a director in Davenport. He later took an opportunity to move to Austria. There he met the love of his life, Heidi, who called him Anthony. They got married at the shooting club, and that was also the last place we all got to see him when we gathered on Thanksgiving.

Anthony had two amazing kids – Lucas, quiet and kind like his dad and Hana, outgoing and fun like her dad. He loved them more than anything. He hung their pictures all over his house, no matter how embarrassing. The bond they shared will be held onto into the next world.

Before he passed, Anthony was doing really well and was happy. He had just gone through brain surgery a month ago. He had quit drinking and was recovering…looking forward to another chance in life, a visit with his kids at Christmas, and getting a puppy.

We feel it is important to acknowledge the challenges he faced. Like many, he battled with depression and alcohol addiction, which were part of his journey but did not define him. Addiction is a complex disease that can take hold of even the most loving and caring individuals. For Tony, it was a struggle that he faced every day, but that did not stop him from giving it his best and trying to be better. It’s amazing how alcohol/addiction doesn’t care about love and who needs you. It doesn’t care that your parents shouldn’t have to bury another child. It doesn’t care that your kids and whole family adore you and want you around.

Our son, brother, and dad will be missed and remembered in so many wonderful memories. From his Harley riding days to his time working at the embassy in Austria, with security clearance, which he was so proud of. He made this world a better place with his caring heart and kindness.

Anthony was preceded in death by his sister, Erin. He is survived by his children, Hana & Lucas Fiegen, his parents, Linda and Charles Fiegen. His siblings, Matthew (Marcia) Fiegen, Chris Fiegen (Sara Weaver), Sara Fiegen, Kaity Fiegen and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be Saturday December 6th at 10:30 am at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

An informal Celebrations of Life will follow at Timmermans with food, family, and friends from 12-3pm.

Memorials may be given to NAMI Dubuque.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Daniel J. Bastian

Daniel Joseph “Steeley” Bastian, age 73, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on December 2, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Dan’s life, a Celebration of Life will begin at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the Eagle’s Club, 1175 Century Drive in Dubuque.  A private family service will be held at the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dan’s family.

Dan was born on June 14, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Donald J. and Joyce (McCauley) Bastian.  He enjoyed life and made the most of each day as best he could.  Dan spent most of his working career as a tour bus driver for Bradley Jo Charters.  He was a very social person and possessed the perfect degree in BS which helped him meet new people and make friends quickly.

In his free-time, Dan found satisfaction in some of life’s simple pleasures.  A little time with his trusty fishing pole in hand was always time well spent, but an evening with his pool cue in hand as he sat on different leagues throughout the area was always a welcomed way to pass the time as well.  When time allowed, Dan and Jean would spend the weekends out on the boat and getting a little swimming in when the perfect sunny days were at hand.  Dan intentionally kept life as simple as he possibly could and appreciated each day which went his way.  We will miss Dan and his snarky sense of humor moving forward and do pray that he finds peace now from his earthly health battles he has faced so courageously.

Those left to cherish the memory of Dan include,

his dear friend and companion,
Jean McGeough, Dubuque, IA;

his sister,
Cheryl (David) Peacock, Dubuque, IA;

his nieces,
Jenni Fox, Dubuque, IA,
Julie Fox, Dubuque, IA,
and Brandi (Andrew) Ortel, Dubuque, IA;

his great-niece and nephews,
Elizabeth Resop, Patrick Resop and Owen Morgan;

his two great-great nephews,
Dallas and Weston;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents.

Dan’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Dan’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com