Obituaries Archive

Donald R. Schmitt

Donald R. Schmitt, 88, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away November 21, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to the funeral mass.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Don was born April 22, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, the son of Charles “Chas” and Bertha (Meyer) Schmitt.  He graduated from Holy Cross Catholic High School and Loras College in Dubuque.  On November 26, 1960, he married Janet Decker from Balltown, and together they operated the “Schmitt Century Farm” near Holy Cross for 34 years.  During this time Don also taught German and Language Arts at Leo High School in Holy Cross, and for the Western Dubuque School District in Farley and Epworth, where he developed many life-long friends.

They raised their three children on the farm, and together as a family restored a former stagecoach stop built in 1849 as their home.  Known as “Pin Oak”, it was settled in 1836, ten years before the State of Iowa was founded.  It was on the Dubuque-St. Paul Stage Trail, and it served as a hotel and a post office.  It is on the National Register of Historic Places.  The preservation of history was very important to Don and Janet, and they placed a picture of Pin Oak on their cemetery headstone.

Don served six years in the Army’s 389th engineer battalion, and he was a member of the Farley American Legion Post 656.  He was a Commissioner for the Dubuque County Soil and Water Conservation District for 12 years, and also served as its Chairman.  In 1972, he received the Outstanding Young Farmer award.  He was a member of the Heritage Foundation, the Reagan Ranch Foundation, National Rifle Association, Dubuque County Right to Life, the Clarity Clinic, and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Don served the Holy Cross Catholic Church as an altar boy, lector, and choir member where he would sing in German the song Stille Nacht at Christmas.  He was active on the church and school boards.  Many years ago, it was tradition for the priest to be the only lector at Mass.  When this custom was changed, Father Hemesath asked Don to become the first lay reader at Holy Cross Church.  Don lectored from that day until 3 weeks ago.

His interests included traveling, especially to German-speaking countries, and writing letters to the editors of various newspapers on political issues.  Don enjoyed firearms, antique tractors, and attending events with the Guttenberg River Park Cruisers, where he and Janet drove their 1956 T-Bird and 1958 Oldsmobile.

Don was known for his great sense of humor.  He always had a joke or funny story that he delivered with perfect comedic timing.  And who can forget when Don stood on stage in the Holy Cross gym as Rodney Dangerfield, performing a lengthy stand up while adjusting his uncomfortable red tie and declaring, “I don’t get any respect!”  He also enjoyed impersonating Willie Nelson, singing various songs.

Survivors include his children Jeff (Linda) Schmitt of Holy Cross, Dave (Wendy) Schmitt of Omaha, NE, and Lisa (Dan) Bowen of Kansas City, KS; grandchildren Michael (Hali) Schmitt, Katelyn Schmitt, John Schmitt, Matt (Libby) Schmitt, Danny Bowen, Nicole Schmitt, Nicholas Bowen, and Adam Schmitt; great-grandchildren Harrison Schmitt and Wyatt Schmitt; in-laws John Decker, Larry (Trudy) Decker, Kathy Koch, and Ann (Andy) Baumann; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Janet; parents; parents-in-law Lawrence and Loretta (Hefel) Decker; sister LaVonne; and in-laws Joan and Les Feldmann, and Steve Koch.

Don is an example of a life well lived.  By his death he answered the call, etched in German on his tombstone, “Kommet mit Mir und ruhuet in Frieden” (Come with Me and rest in Peace).

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque for their kind, compassionate care.

Memorials may be given to LaSalle School or Holy Cross Parish in Holy Cross, Iowa.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

John A. Liphardt Jr.

John A. Liphardt Jr, 64, of Dubuque died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 20, 2025. To celebrate John’s life, there will be a farewell toast visitation from 3 to 7 pm Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.

John was born August 18, 1961 in Clinton, Iowa, son of John and Katherine (Sharer) Liphardt Sr.

He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 1979. On June 19, 1982, he married Barbara Bahl on her family farm.

He was working in the maintenance department at the City of Dubuque Since 2006 where he met many great coworkers and friends.

He enjoyed tinkering in his garage taking things apart to see how they worked.

John had a personality you couldn’t help but love. He always had a smart alec remark that made everyone laugh. “Look, a monkey.”

John is survived by his wife Barbara; three children, Robert Atkinson and his daughter Kayla; John (Kira Kieffer) Liphardt III and their children, Gage and Evangaline; and Jenny Liphardt and her children, Caleb, Cooper, and Harper; and two great grandchildren, Jayce and Jaxtyn.

He is also survived by five siblings, Sheila Beaver, Kathy (Rick) Rennison, Verna (Harry) Rennison, Mike (Janet) Liphardt and Chris (Brenda) Williams, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Tim Williams.

A John Liphardt memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cheryl Morgan-Ihrig and her staff and well as the nurses and staff at Above and Beyond Hospice for their wonderful care and neighbor Nate and Lisa for all the support over the years.

Richard P. Deininger

Richard P. “Dick” Deininger, age 84, of Galena, Illinois passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at the Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque, IL, where funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m., with Pastor Crystal Weber officiating. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

Dick was born on September 2, 1941 in Galena, the son of Willis J. and Alma E. (Bardell) Deininger. He was a graduate of Galena High School. On October 26, 1963, he was united in marriage to Alys M. Hampton at Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque.

Dick’s passion in life was farming and real estate. Family came first, then hunting, a good card game, bowling and playing volleyball.

Surviving is his wife, Alys; four children, Susan Deininger, Sandy Deininger, Jim (Lisa) Deininger and Michelle Deininger; 11-grandchildren and 12-great-grandchildren; his siblings, Rose Harkness, Marilyn Flack, and Chuck (Nancy) Deininger; sisters-in-law, Faud Deininger, Lola Deininger, and Marian Binns.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Alma, a son Paul, a grandson, Stuart, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ed and Anna Hampton, and siblings, Lester, William, and Carolyn.

In lieu of flowers, a Dick Deininger memorial fund has been established.

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

David J. McDonough

David J. “Dave” McDonough, age 68, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on November 18, 2025, at Harmony Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Dave’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue in Dubuque, with Rev. Raymond Burkle officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dave’s family.

Dave was born on November 28, 1956, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John and Frances (Meyer) McDonough.  He was a proud graduate of Hempstead High School and went on to be a personal trainer and bouncer for many years in the Dubuque area.  We are going to miss Dave more than he could know and are forever grateful for the wonderful memories he leaves behind.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in his loving arms until we see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dave include,

his four siblings,
Linda (Bob) Becker, Dubuque, IA,
Gary (Missy) McDonough, East Dubuque, IA,
John (Mary) McDonough, Dubuque, IA,
and Dennis (Olivia) McDonough, Warrenton, VA;

his sister-in-law,
Theresa McDonough, Dubuque, IA;

his aunts and uncles,
Jan McDonough, Key West, IA,
Connie McDonough, Dubuque, IA,
and Bill McDonough, Asbury, IA;

his fourteen nieces and nephews;

his Godfather,
Lou McDonough, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous cousins, extended family and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, Charles (Anna) McDonough and Nick (Theresa) Meyer; his aunts and uncles, Tom McDonough, Fran McDonough, Rita McDonough, Virginia (Dick) Johnson and Mary (Loras) Grant;  Lou’s wife, Gerry McDonough; and his cousins, Kevin McDonough and David Grant.

In lieu of flowers, a David J. McDonough memorial fund has been established.

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

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

Bonita M. Staas

Bonita M. “Bonnie Staas, age 85, of Orangeville, IL, completed her earthly journey on November 20, 2025.

Bonnie was born on May 20, 1940, in Massbach, IL, one of 8 children, to Arthur and Bessie (Belk) Beyer. She began her formative years in a one-room schoolhouse in Massbach and graduated from Stockton High School. She worked many different jobs, Micro Switch, Germania, Turner Hall, and retired from being a realtor with Chilton Realty in Durand. She enjoyed meeting new people and making them laugh.

In her free time, she loved to bake breads, pies, and cookies and share them with friends and neighbors. She loved gardening and canning, camping, and was a beekeeper until she was 78. Bonnie loved creating family memories with her children and grandchildren. Her cats gave her much comfort in the later years.

Bonnie is survived by her son, Raymond (Laurie) Staas, Pearl City, IL; daughter, Sandra (Kimball Willis) Staas, Elizabeth, IL; daughter in law, Toni Staas, Cedarville, IL. Three grandchildren, Jeremy (Angela) Staas, Oregon, WI, Jenelle Staas, Freeport, IL, and Caitlin (Michaela Greenwalt) Staas, Moline IL. Four great-grandchildren, Trey Staas, Bryce Monigold, Carter Staas, and Lauren Staas. Siblings, Arlene Allen, Kankakee, IL, and Gale Beyer, Dekalb, IL.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her two sons, Kelly Staas and Wayne (Janie) Staas; her siblings, Delbert (Doris) Beyer, Kelly (Joni) Beyer, Allen (Doris) Beyer, Jan (Charles) Symens, and Bette Beyer.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at FHN Hospice in Freeport for all of their professional and compassionate care. We would also like to thank Help at Home for their wonderful caregivers, and Kathleen Williams, Maureen Marsh, and Dana Pettinger.

Per her request there will be no service.

Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bonnie’s family.

Online condolences for Bonnie’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Audrey K. Cunningham

Audrey K. Cunningham, age 77, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on November 8, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Audrey’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Audrey’s family.

Audrey was born on July 25, 1948, in Monroe, MI, a daughter to Alvin and Edna May (Nitz) Ault.  She was gifted with a fun-loving spirit and a love for family which never quit.  She did spend a few years of her working career on a few different ventures, but undoubtedly her favorite was delivering recreational vehicles from the manufacturer to the sales lots.  A little cruising around the countryside in a brand-new RV was the perfect way to pass the time and miles in Audrey’s mind.

In her free time, Audrey never met a jigsaw puzzle she was afraid to be challenged with and if some time to sit in her comfy chair with her crochet needles in hand happened to occur, this was always a welcomed diversion.  Let it know that her homemade bread was second to none out there as well and if her favorite show, “When Calls the Heart” was on the tv, you could be sure that Audrey was going to make the effort to catch what she could.  All of these moments were only made even better if she happened to have her family close by.  Her love and adoration were continually on display, and there was no doubt in anyone’s mind that her devotion was both unconditional and immeasurable.  We are going to miss our dearly sweet Audrey moving forward and cannot imagine where such love and light in our days could be found now.  Thank you, Audrey, for being the best mom, grandma and friends any of us could ask for and may the Lord bless and keep you securely in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Audrey include,

her two children,
Michelle (Michael) Hamdar, Toccoa, GA,
and Karrie (Joe) Mayefski, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Chris Hamdar, Kimberly Tores, Dante Hamdar, Saphira Mayefski, Sonja Mayefski, Kyle Mayefski, Abby Mayefski, Dylan Priest, Damian Priest, Faith Ann Priest and Angel Marrie Priest, Sheena and Dusty Priest;

her son-in-law,
Michael Priest, Oakwood, GA;

her siblings,
Alvin (Kathy) Ault, Jr., TN,
David Ault, FL,
Eillen (Donny) Kephart, Alberta, CA,
and Danny (Lynda) Ault, PA;

her ex-husband,
Allen Cunningham, Pittsburg, PA;

along with numerous extended families, friends, and neighbors.

Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Amy Priest; her son, Jimmy Cox; and her brothers, Michael Ault and Warren Ault.

Audrey’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 Audrey’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Patricia A. Glanz

Patricia A. “Pat” Glanz, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on November 20, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Pat’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pat’s family.

Pat was born on September 20, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to William and Alma (Ricketts) Dahl.  She was blessed with a kind and fun-loving spirit which she graciously shared with the world around her throughout her entire life.  Pat met and married the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” Glanz, and the couple were blessed with 65 wonderful years together and two sons of their own to love and adore.  Pat spent her working career primarily in retail and many customers were greeted with her beautiful smile at the old Maidrite downtown, Sweetheart Bakery, Sears and lastly at Younker’s in the china and glassware department until she eventually retired in 2002.  Pat always enjoyed visiting with the customers and made countless friends along the way.

In her free-time, Pat made sure that she was able to enjoy as much time as possible with her family and friends.  She never passed up an opportunity to go to the Casino or gather around the card table with her friends seeing who had the best hands that day, often pulling the dominos out for a fresh challenge, and always catching up on the latest talk of the town.  She was also an avid swimmer and whether investing a little time water walking at Flora, or simply swimming in her own pool with the grandkids by her side, Pat made the best of every day the sun was shining overhead.  When a little time to herself came along, it was rare not to find her with her latest crossword puzzle in hand.  Pat’s devotion to her family and friends was undeniable and continually on display.  Because of the generosity of her time with others, she leaves behind an abundance of comforting memories for all who knew and loved her to lean into as they face the difficult days ahead in the midst of her absence.  We are forever grateful for the 86 years the Lord was generous enough to share Pat’s love and light with us and may she now find the peace she prayed for as she’s once again reunited with Gene, Rick and the rest of her loved ones who’ve been called home ahead of her.  Thank you, Pat, for setting a perfect example of how to live a good and fulfilling life and may the lessons you’ve left behind be both felt and seen in the generations to follow your lead.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Pat include,

her son,
Mike (Dianne) Glanz, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter-in-law,
Barb (Bob) Wiltgen, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her five grandchildren,
Jenny (Kevin) Engelken, Dyersville, IA,
Kim (Timmy) Schmit, Kieler, WI,
Bryan (Emily) Glanz, Peosta, IA,
Hannah (John Dube) Glanz, Madison, WI,
and Ryan (Kennedy) Glanz, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her eleven great-grandchildren,
Colin Engelken, Bella Engelken, Dalton Engelken, Easton Schmit, Joscelyn Schmit, Gavin Glanz, Charlotte Glanz and Violet Glanz Henry Glanz, Zoe Glanz, and Amelia Dube

her siblings,
Jacque Leibfried, OH,
Ed (Sharon) Dahl, Dubuque, IA,
and Mick (Karen) Dahl, MS;

her brothers and sisters-in-law,
Dick (Jeanne) Stireman, Dubuque, IA,
Helen Lemon, Des Moines, IA,

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, William (Alma) Dahl; her loving husband of 65 years, Gene Glanz; her son, Richard Glanz; her sister, Tuddy Stierman; her mother and father-in-law, Irvin (Marie) Glanz; her brothers-in-law, Irvin Glanz and James Glanz; her aunt, Katie Dahl; her nephew, Stephen Dahl; and her cousin, Barb Dahl.

Pat’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 Pat’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Catherine A. Knuckey

Catherine Ann Knuckey, 69, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of the mass. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where the rosary will be recited beginning at 3:30 PM. The burial will be in Scales Mound Township Cemetery.

She was born February 23, 1956, in Freeport, IL, the daughter of Joseph A. and Kathleen A. (Keleher) Deutsch. Catherine was united in marriage to George W. Knuckey on August 14, 1976, at St. Joseph Church in Apple River, IL. She attended Waubonsee Community College in Plano, IL, earning an associate degree in business. Catherine worked at John Deere Works in Dubuque, IA, in the office, before staying home to raise her five boys. After her sons were in school, she obtained her real estate license and worked as a real estate agent for 20 years. Catherine was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She raised her boys with strength, love, and poise. Catherine lived for nothing more than loving her grandchildren, showing up for them, spoiling them, encouraging them, and giving them advice. She was their biggest cheerleader. Catherine also enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and traveling with family.

She is survived by her husband, George; five sons, Phillip (Ashley) Knuckey, Matthew Knuckey, Jason (Ashlee) Knuckey, Ryan (Kelly) Knuckey, and Andrew (Hannah) Knuckey; eleven grandchildren, Mackenzie, Avery, Sophia, Dylan, William, Charles, Walter, Isabel, Mya, Thomas, and David; two sisters, Lorrie (Bruce) Babbini, Joan (Mark) Theuer; four brothers, Robert Deutsch, Kenneth (Debora) Deutsch, Theodore Deutsch, Thomas (Krista) Deutsch; a brother-in-law, Doug (Marsha) Knuckey; a sister-in-law, Sue McGivney; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, James, Gregory, and Stephen Deutsch; her mother and father-in-law, William and Mary Knuckey; and a brother-in-law, Joseph McGivney.

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

Charles L. Winterwood

Charles L. Winterwood, MD, died November 15, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Dubuque, after a many years-long battle with complications from a lung disease.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Burial was held in Casper Creek Natural Cemetery in Galena, IL.

He is survived by his spouse, Gretel, their two children, Zach (Emily) and Nicole, and their two grandchildren, Talia and Elena.

Charles was born to Franklin M. Muench, Sr. and Flo Maree Muench. A brother, F. Michael Muench is deceased.

Charles was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Dr. Winterwood practiced as a pediatrician at Medical Associates in Dubuque, Iowa.

A passionate environmentalist, he served on several city commissions that dealt with climate action, clean water, and air quality.

He was active in the Mississippi Trails Hiking Club and Friends of Dubuque County Conservation. He was noted as one of the most capable people in the area at identifying bird sounds. He made contributions to the bird lists maintained by the Iowa Ornithological Union Collection at Iowa State University. He led birding tours at the Mines of Spain. Dick Worm, a friend of Charlie’s, remembers a canoe trip through the brush at Catfish Creek, where Charlie amazed him by recognizing one bird sound after another. Charlie participated in the annual bird count in Dubuque in the winter, no matter what the weather.

He was a life member and held offices in the Audubon Society and Sierra Club. He was a commissioner for the City of Dubuque, serving on committees such as the Renewable Energy Committee. He was a long-time member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, where he led projects such as the Unitarian Universalist Green Sustainability Project, which met the requirements for the national certificate. He volunteered to review low-income homes for weatherization needs.

In addition to birding, his hobbies included photography, coin collecting, hiking and spelunking. He was also an avid movie goer. He loved trivia contests where he was often considered a one-person team with his knowledge. One lament that he did not make it all the way through the trials to be a contestant on the Jeopardy TV quiz program.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations can be made to Sierra Club or Audubon Society.

William F. Martin

William Francis “Frank” Martin, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, was reunited with his wife on November 20, 2025, at River Bend Assisted Living in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday November 23, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 12:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday November 24, 2025, at Saint Joseph Catholic Church, Key West with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Frank was born on March 21, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Michael and Elizabeth (Brown) Martin. On December 1, 1956, he married Mary Jane “Boots” Welsh at Saint Joseph Catholic Church and together they shared 68 years together before her passing on June 28, 2025. He honorably served his country in the United States Army in Germany during the Korean Conflict. He worked at Oakland Farm Dairy and later at Mississippi Valley Milk Producers. He eventually joined the Dubuque Community School District, where he remained until his retirement. He was a member of the Holy Name Society and was a former active member of the Key West Fire Department

Frank enjoyed hobby farming, gardening, and raising and caring for sheep and horses. He also loved woodworking, square dancing with his wife, Boots, and bowling. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his wife and family.

Frank is survived by his three sons: Terrance (Brenda), Brian (Linda), and Keith (Ruth) Martin; son-in-law Gerald (Bobbie) Scherrman; grandchildren:  Jennifer (fiancé Austin Monaghan) Martin, Daniel (Katherine) Martin, David (Ali) Martin, William (Marti) Martin, Samuel (Shelby) Martin, Zachary Martin, Justin (Kassi) Scherrman, Jacob (Ashley) Scherrman, Adam Hoffman and Ashley Carey; great grandchildren: Chloe and Ella Scherrman, Tel Martin, Case Martin, Clancy Jo Martin, Sayven, Crue Spidle. He is also survived by his siblings Loras (Josephine) Martin, Charlie (Donna) Martin, and Rosemary Kramer, along with sisters-in-law Margie Welsh and Carolyn Moyer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Boots; a daughter Cynthia Jean Scherrman on July 28, 1996; a granddaughter Jessica Martin; brothers John (Joan) and Louie Martin; his sister, Betty (Jack) Payne; siblings-in-law Geraldine (Paul) Ryan, Donald Welsh, Earl “Pete” Kremer and Carl Moyer; and niece and nephew Kenna Payne and Kevin Kremer.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Bend along with Hospice of Dubuque for all the care they have given to Frank.

Patricia A. Williams

Patricia Anne Williams, 86, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family at Grand Meadows Senior Living in Asbury, Iowa. Her family will hold a celebration of life at a later date. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Pat was born on April 1, 1939, in Creston, Iowa, the daughter of George and Leila Whitmarsh. She graduated from Drake University in Des Moines in 1961 and received her master’s degree in music with emphasis in pipe organ performance in 1963. She taught music at Christian College (now Columbia College) in Columbia, Mo., and played the pipe organ for the Missouri Methodist Church in Columbia, where her future husband, Vince, sang in her choir. She married Vincent Williams on Aug. 15, 1965, at First Congregational Church in Creston, and they lived in Columbia, Mo., and then Gainesville, Ga., before moving with their two sons to Dubuque in 1971, where Vince taught theater at Hempstead High School and Pat taught piano lessons.

Pat was the longtime organist at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dubuque, where Vince sang in the choir. She taught piano for many years, and she taught music theory at the University of Dubuque. She held many piano recitals for her students at churches and nursing homes in Dubuque, as well as at the University of Dubuque, bringing the joy of music to all, especially during the holidays. She was primary accompanist for the Dubuque Chorale, which was founded and directed by Dennis Williams.

She and Vince traveled with the group to a number of church locations in the U.K., Europe and Russia, with Pat playing organ for accompaniment. When the group sang in a mass at the Vatican, Pat played the organ there as well. They enjoyed those foreign concerts performing with special friends, Dennis and Suzie Williams and Doug and Jean Cheever.

Pat was a very loving wife and mother and a devoted Nana, ensuring that her grandchildren had rich educational and musical experiences. She took them to the library when they were very young, volunteered at their schools, taught them piano as soon as they were old enough and provided them with voice and dance lessons. She shared her love of music throughout her life, and her grandchildren were the songs that played in her heart.

She is survived by her husband, Vince; her sons, Jonathan (Cindy) Williams, of Montgomery Village, Md., and Michael (Maryjo) Williams, of Asbury, Iowa, and their children, Michaela (Noah) Villarreal, of Chicago, Ally (Wil Barden) Williams, of Los Angeles, Cassie Williams, of Asbury, and Nate Williams, of Cedar Falls, Iowa; her stepdaughter, Melanie (Kent) Williams-Smotherman, of Omaha, Neb.; her stepgrandchildren, Nick (Ellen) Weddleton, of Omaha, and Sydney (Andrew Malik) Weddleton, of Lincoln, Neb.; her brother-in-law, David Hudson, of Coralville, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, George and Leila Whitmarsh; parents-in-law, Wilbur and Florence Williams; her brother, Duane Whitmarsh; sisters-in-law, Kay Hudson and Glenna Whitmarsh; and brothers-in-law, Charles, Jim and Bob Williams.

The family would like to thank Grand Meadows, Oak Park Place, MercyOne Dubuque, Hospice of Dubuque and Paramount Ambulance for the care given to Pat.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Norma J. Jackson

Sr. Edna Ginder, OSF

Sr. Edna (Timothy) Ginder, OSF, 98, of Dubuque, died at 7:37 AM, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at Clare House, Mount St. Francis, Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. Friday, November 21, 2025, followed by burial at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans

Edna was born August 25, 1927 in Meyer, IA, the daughter of Peter and Rose (Hemann) Ginder.  Edna entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1946 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1952. Sister received her masters degree in education from Clarke College, Dubuque, IA. She ministered as a teacher in Iowa schools at St. Edward, Waterloo; St. Mary, Dubuque; Cascade, Jesup, Petersburg, and Stacyville. She also served as an educator at All Saints, Portland, OR, St. Christopher, Midlothian, IL, and Corpus Christi, Chicago, IL. Sr. Edna was later missioned at Mount St. Francis Center and Scenic Valley Agency on Aging, both in Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her sister, Marie Donner; brother, Vernon Ginder; sister-in-law, Ruth Ginder; nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Richard (Marian and Angela) Ginder, Clarence Ginder, Paul (Jeanne) Ginder, and Roger (Marcella) Ginder; sister-in-law, Sylvia Ginder; and brother-in-law Robert Donner.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and the MSFC staff for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Christine A. Stephens-Lovell

Christine A. Stephens-Lovell, 53, of Dubuque, IA., passed away November 15, 2025, at MercyOne in Dubuque.

A celebration of life for Christine will take place at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Christine was born December 20, 1971, in Darlington, WI., the daughter of Ronald and Rebecca (Schwartz) Stephens. She graduated from Darlington High School and took classes at NICC in Peosta, IA.

She enjoyed crocheting, sewing, camping, bowling, attending local dirt track racing, and watching NASCAR, cheering on her favorite driver, Jeff Gordon. Most of all she loved spending time with her family and friends.

Christine is survived by her three children: Kimberleigh (Matthew) Rasmussen of Lake Elmo, MN., Zachary (Brittany) Lovell, and Dakota (Jenna) Lovell both of Cuba City, WI.; her mother, Rebecca Stephens; seven grandchildren: Annie and Elise Taylor, Leah Rasmussen, Bo, Axton, Mavrick and Myles Lovell, with another one expected in May of 2026; siblings, Cynthia Stephens and Jason (special friend Angie Reddington) Stephens; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her father, Ronald Stephens, and other close family members.

A memorial fund for Christine has been established.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the MercyOne ICU nurses and staff for their compassion towards Christine and her family.

Richard P. Noesen

Richard Paul Noesen, a lifelong resident of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 16, 2025.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:30a.m., Saturday, November 22, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at 10:30a.m. at the funeral home with Sr. Margaret Ann Kramer officiating.

Born on April 23, 1942, in Dubuque to Frank and Bertha Noesen, Richard grew up deeply connected to the community that he would call home throughout his life.

Richard was a proud graduate of Wahlert High School, where he formed many of the friendships that he maintained over the years. He particularly enjoyed his class reunions, held every year, gathering with the close-knit group of friends affectionately known as “Buck’s Boys.”

Richard spent most of his working years at John Deere as an electrician, though his life was much more defined by how he spent his free time.

An avid tennis player, Richard played collegiately as a non-traditional student at Clarke College as well as competing in local and regional leagues and tournaments. The sport brought him joy, discipline, and lasting friendships. He enjoyed watching all sports, especially the World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers and the Dallas Cowboys.

Richard’s talents and interests were wide-ranging. A natural musician, he taught himself to play the piano by ear, mastered the 12-string guitar, even played and sang with an accordion. He also loved classic cars, working under the hood, and leading his family on many memorable long-distance road trips. In his later years, he embraced woodworking, creating unique, hand-crafted pieces that reflected his patience and craftsmanship.

Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures of daily life, especially sharing morning coffee with a close fraternity of friends at Panera—a tradition filled with camaraderie and laughter.

A man of faith, Richard was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. At home, some of his most treasured moments were spent with his wife, Carolyn, watching sunsets over their backyard garden.

Richard is survived by his wife, Carolyn Noesen; his brother Fr. Tom Noesen; his sister Bert Noesen; his children Bob Noesen (Dawn), Mike Noesen (Lora), Chris Rivard, Rick Noesen (Jill) and grandchildren Emily, Natalie, James, Emma, Ryan, Libby (Zach B.), Zach, and Sawyer. He is also survived by his step-sons Sean (Ladonna) Thomas and Michael Thomas. In-laws Cathy & Roger Puls, Jeanne Keck, Tim & Carol Dolson, Jan & Monty Casebolt, Peter & Bonnie Dolson, Mary & Dale Baker, Randy & Peggy Dolson.

He is preceded in death by his brother Frank, and his parents, Frank and Bertha.

Memorials may be given to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

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