Obituaries Archive

Cooper D. Cook

Cooper Dale Cook, 16 of Cascade, Iowa passed away on January 4th, 2025.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 10th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road in Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 11th, 2025, at Holy Family Catholic Church, New Melleray with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. His burial will be at a later date in the church cemetery. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Cooper was born to Jodi (Friederick) and Tim Cook on March 12th, 2008.  He attended Cascade Elementary, Bernard Elementary, and was currently enrolled online at Penn Foster, preparing to graduate this year.

As the oldest boy, he had no fear of diving into anything, even if it was new to him.  Cooper had a love for farming, using his own tractor and bailer to tend to the fields, including custom baling for his dad and neighbors.  He was good with his hands and mechanically inclined.  Cooper was a fast learner and a very smart kid.  He loved vehicles, the faster and louder the better, loving to give others a crazy ride. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, 4-wheelers, and snowmobiles.  He had a love for hunting and fishing that started at a young age.  He was very strong for his age and loved a good arm-wrestling session, with whoever was willing to step up, even though they would usually lose.

Cooper was quiet, but once you got to know him, he had a lot to say.  Cooper was witty, hardworking, and always willing to help someone in need.  Cooper was a protector to his siblings and friends, a great son and complete B.S.er who loved to tell a tall tale and goofy stories.  He was such a wild child that you never knew if his stories were true or not.

He loved his older sisters, Autumn and Lacie, his younger brother, Dustin with all his heart.  His friends were a staple in his life, always around the house and the farm.  He was surrounded by such great friends and family. He loved teasing them, playing pool, fishing and hunting, and driving vehicles that sometimes ended up in the junk yard!

He is survived by his parents, Tim and Jodi Cook, his siblings, Autumn, Lacie and Dustin Cook. Grandma Alice Cook and Grandpa Kenny Friederick; aunts and uncles: Tom (Jean) Cook, Troy (LeeAnn) Cook, Tricia (Terry) McElmeel, Todd (Kathy) Cook, Tony (Tanya) Cook, Tanya (Steve) Kluesner, Travis (Diana) Cook, Terry (Holly) Cook, Tara (John) Lynch, Renee (Brian) Ridenour, Tim (Dawn) Friederick, Rhonda (Dirk) Deutmeyer, and Tom Friederick, as well as many close cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandpa, Dale Cook, grandma June Friederick,  farmhand/friends/mentors, John “Crow” Krogman, Jim “Eb” Fischer,  and Alan “Squeak” Turnis.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund will be established in Cooper’s name.

Cooper had a great life and so much love surrounding him.  Some sorrow runs deeper than we can imagine.  Please do whatever it takes to let the pain out. Even when you are in pain, remember you are surrounded by family and friends that love you.  We love our Cooper so very very much.

Cooper’s last act of helping was to donate his organs to others.

Jeffrey A. Tracy

Jeffrey A. “Jeff” Tracy, 51, of Boone, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa.

Jeffrey Allan Tracy was born on March 30, 1974 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Jerald and Cindy (Clark) Tracy. He was raised by his mother and stepfather David Crochek.  Jeff had attended schools in both Maquoketa and Boone, Iowa.

Jeff had worked as a carpenter for Mike Holmes Construction in Delmar, and Jon Pritchard of Pritchard Construction in Boone, Iowa.

Jeff loved nature and the outdoors.  He was an animal lover and enjoyed fishing, deer watching, and mushrooming.  He believed in living the old way, like the old days.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Cody Tracy of Dubuque, IA, and Dakota (and fiancé Lucas Isaac) Tracy of Maquoketa, IA; his mother and stepfather, Cindy Holdsworth-Bock and Doug Bock of Bellevue, IA; father and stepmother, Jerald and Jan Tracy of WI; grandson, Silas Isaac; brothers, Jeramie Tracy of Dubuque, IA, Jason (Jolene) Tracy of Dubuque, IA, James Tracy of Boone, IA, and Douglas Holdsworth of Dubuque, IA; and sisters, Janey (Will) McCabe of Jefferson, IA, Alaina (Jason) Havens of Bellevue, IA, Chelbie (Ron) Holdsworth of Bellevue, IA, Brittany Holdsworth of Dubuque, IA, and Emily Strehle of Davenport, IA; and many other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his stepfather who raised him, David Crochek.

A graveside and burial celebrating his life will be held at 12:30 P.M., Friday, January 10, 2025, at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, IA.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Jeffrey A. “Jeff” Tracy memorial fund has been established.

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

Carolyn T. Eggers

Sr. Myra Weitl, OSF

Sister Myra (Valerian) Weitl, OSF, 87, passed away on January 5, 2025 at Mount Saint Francis.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 8, 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. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is in charge of arrangements.

Myra was born on October 1, 1937 in Templeton, Iowa, the daughter of Charles and Anna (Liewer) Weitl. Myra entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1956 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1962. Sister received her BA in education from Briar Cliff College, Sioux City, IA. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at St. Donatus, Holy Cross, Alton, Remsen, and Arcadia. She also served in Minneapolis, MN and Calhoun City, MS.

Sister is survived by her brother, Norbert Weitl, sisters-in-law, Ruth Ann Weitl, Almyra Weitl, and Pat Weitl; nieces and nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Arlene (Gaylord) Stangl and Nola (Vernon) Kohorst; brothers Richard Weitl, Marlo Weitl, and Charles Weitl.

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, 3390 Windsor Ave., Dubuque, IA.

Nancy R. Sawvell

Nancy Rae Sawvell, 63, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Monday, December 23, 2024, at Sunnycrest Manor. To honor Nancy’s life, a private service will be held at a later date.

Nancy was born on March 5, 1961, in Seoul, South Korea. She was adopted by Francis Elba Nagel and Melva Mae Sawvell, and spent her early years in Monona, IA. She later moved to Lacrosse, WI, where she worked as a Direct Service Provider for adults with developmental disabilities, and also volunteered to provide support for those living with HIV/AIDS.

Eventually, Nancy found herself living in Dubuque, where she befriended people at the Hillcrest Family Services Wellness Center and the S.O.U.R.C.E. and became a beloved member/supporter of the recovery community. She could also be found working at the Center of I Am or volunteering at the Dubuque Museum of Art.

Although Nancy could be a bit rough around the edges, she also chose to love fiercely and wear her heart on her sleeve. We’ll miss being able to visit with her over cigarettes and coffee as she shared about whatever was currently on her mind. Nancy loved to study—especially the arts and religion/spirituality, and while she loved life, we can find solace that she has moved on to experience the mystery beyond.

We would like to thank the Tri-State Cremation Center and the Holy Spirit Parish for their support in this period. We are also thankful for the staff at Sunnycrest Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Visiting Nurses Association for their assistance—your care during Nancy’s final days is much appreciated.

Online condolences for Nancy’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Jeanette B. Gotzinger

Jeanette B. Gotzinger, 91, of Dubuque, IA, died Friday, January 3, 2025, at MercyOne. In honor of Jeanette’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 3685 County HHH in Kieler, WI, with Father Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call prior to the service at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center from 9:00-11:00 am.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jeanette’s family.

Jeanette was born on January 11, 1933, the daughter of Raymond and Helen (Helbing) Jansen raised in Kieler, WI. She was united in marriage to Milton H. Gotzinger on April 24, 1954, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Kieler, WI. Jeanette was a long-time member of Immaculate Conception. She was a homemaker and raised her four daughters.  Jeanette loved spending time with her family and especially caring for her grandchildren.  She enjoyed playing cards and bingo. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her loving husband Milton and daughters, Lynn McGraw of Port Washington, WI, Nancy (Alan) Bahl of Dubuque, Peggy (Gary) Trowbridge, of Kieler, and Kelly (Mark) Chapman of Dubuque; two sisters, Shirley (Joe) Burbach, of Dubuque, and Sharon (Tom) Runde, of Hazel Green; a brother, Kenneth Jansen, of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Michael, Laura, Katie, Heather, Sarah, Kyle, Zach and Samantha, nine great grandchildren; and extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather, Hilary Wiederholt; a son-in-law, Adrian McGraw; her brothers, Virgil (Bernadette) Jansen and Donald Jansen; sister-in-law, Sally Jansen; nephews, Paul Jansen, Brian Jansen and Tony Burbach.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Oak Park Place and MercyOne for their professional and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, a Jeanette B. Gotzinger Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Bernice C. Beringer

Bernice C. Beringer, 102, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation for Bernice will be held from 3 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 3 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Bernice will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade.

Bernice was born on June 18, 1922, in Earlville, Iowa, daughter of Bernard and Margaret (Kramer) Schlarmann.  She received her education from Earlville and Xavier Catholic School in Dyersville.   On November 14, 1940, she was united in marriage to Nicholas Beringer at the Basilica St. Francis Catholic Church, in Dyersville, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on November 9, 1982.

She worked at Western Dubuque School district in Cascade as a cook from 1976-1997 retiring after 21 years of service.  Bernice was devoted to her faith and was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

Bernice was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who truly loved her family and made them the priority in her life.  She was a woman known for her baking especially her cinnamon rolls and bread.

Those left to cherish her memory are her two daughters, Kate (Ron) Leifker of Greenville, TX, and Bonnie (Steve) Brimeyer of Farley, IA; daughter-in-law, Sue Ann Beringer of Dyersville, IA; son-in-law, Celester Rausch of Epworth, IA; grandchildren, Chris Rausch, Jodi (Rick) Simon, Dan Rausch, Janelle (Eric) Spellerberg, Angie (Norman) Millman, Melissa Beringer, Amanda (Doug) Funke, Marty (Lynn) Leifker, Nikki Leifker, Heidi (Brandon) Scarbrough, Stephanie (Brett) Kluesner, Craig (Cher) Brimeyer, Josh (Sarah) Brimeyer, Jenny (Wendell) Hornsby, and Jason (Ashley) Brimeyer; 31 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren with another due in April; sister-in-law Juanita Schlarmann of LaMotte; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; son, Gilbert “Gib” Beringer; two daughters, Joyce Beringer in infancy and Elizabeth “Betty” Rausch; a granddaughter, Kathy Ann Rausch; four sisters: Rita Schlarmann, Della Cameron, Marcella Bodine and Vera Elsner; four brothers, Leonard Schlarmann and Raymond (Veronica) Schlarmann, Clifford Schlarmann and Ambrose (Hattie) Schlarmann; father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Mary (Rauen) Beringer; brothers and sisters-in-law, Odelia (Pete) Boffeli, Victor (Anna) Beringer, Arnold (Ione) Beringer, Carl (Alvina) Beringer, Bill (Imelda) Beringer, Frederick Beringer, Emil Beringer, and Tecie (Jim) Lehman.

The Beringer family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Ellen Kennedy Assisted Living Center, and MercyOne Senior Care for all their care and support they gave to Bernice over the past few years.

A Video Tribute may be viewed, and online condolences may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Kathleen Reeg

Mary A. Gilmore

Mary A. Gilmore, a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Unity Point, St. Lukes Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at the age of 73. Born on February 2, 1951, in Maquoketa, Iowa, Mary was the loving daughter of Sherman E. and Blanche M. (Paasch) McCallister.

Mary graduated from Andrew High School in 1969, where she fostered a love for learning and community involvement. It was during her time as a nurse’s aide at the local hospital that she met Thomas “Tom” Gilmore, a patient who would become her husband. The two were united in marriage on April 28, 1973, in Maquoketa, and welcomed their son, Jeremy, into the world, completing their family.

Professionally, Mary was the cornerstone of her family’s businesses. She managed the office and bookkeeping for Tom Gilmore Repair, and later for T & J Manufacturing, which was founded in 1982. Mary’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering support were instrumental in the success of these ventures. She retired in 2010.

Mary’s life was a testament to her faith and her love for the arts. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, where she shared her musical talents by singing in the choir. Her passion for theater shone brightly through her involvement with the Peace Pipe Players, to which she contributed as an assistant director. Mary’s love for music extended beyond the church and theater; she was an avid fan of Elvis Presley, often traveling to Graceland and attending numerous tribute concerts.

Those left to honor Mary’s memory include her husband, Thomas “Tom” Gilmore of Maquoketa; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Sandy Gilmore of Maquoketa; her siblings, Richard “Dick” (Kathy Felten) McCallister of Maquoketa, and Nancy Jamison of Maquoketa; in-laws, Larry and Lorraine Gilmore, John and Alice Gilmore, and Lowell Henry, all of Maquoketa; along with several loving nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Joyce Bradshaw; and sisters-in-law, Diana Henry and LeAnn McCallister.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, Mary A. Gilmore memorial fund has been established.

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

Ambrose P. Eilers

Ambrose P. Eilers, 86 , of Monticello, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church prior to funeral mass.

Funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church,  in Monticello, Iowa, with burial in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Ambrose was born May 26, 1938, son of Leo and Rose (Loeffelholz) Eilers.  He received his GED while in the US Army and later attended Kirkwood Community College for Drafting. After returning from the US Army he married the love of his life, Kathleen Prier. They were married on August 18, 1962, in Holy Cross, Iowa. Two daughters were born to this union.

He was a carpenter until Arthritis affected his health, he then attended Kirkwood to become a draftsman. He worked for Cucklers and Star Manufacturing until they moved the drafting department to another state. He then worked for Cedar Rapids Inc. until his retirement. Woodworking was a passion for him. Even though he was not able to be a carpenter full time, you could still find him tinkering in his shop creating his masterpieces for his loved ones while listening to country music.

Ambrose loved to travel, he always looked forward to taking his wife and kids on a vacation. Most evenings you would find him at his drafting board drawing house plans for people, this was his vacation fund for his family. He shared his love of travel with so many others and encouraged other family members to join him and Kay on their adventures. He loved attending their grandchildren’s events, helping his grandchildren with their 4H projects, treating them to Dairy Queen, and always encouraging them to be the best they could be.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Kay; children: Sandy (John) Ryan and Cindy (Pat) Ries; grandchildren: Shellie (Jay) Cabalka, Stacey Ryan, Mitchell (Morgan) Ryan, Courtney and Serena Ries; great grandchildren: Nova and Maverick Cabalka; sister, Donna Lux; in-laws: Germaine Deutmeyer, Eunice Prier, Marilyn Prier, Ed (Eileen) Prier, Charlie (Janet) Prier, Willie (Bonnie) Prier, Loras (Mary Ellen) Prier, and Loras Demmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kathleen Demmer; in-laws: Vince Lux, Roger Deutmeyer, Eugene (Lucille) Prier, Marvin Prier, Gerry Prier and Wilma Prier.

The family would like to thank the staff members of Corner Stone, the VA and Above and Beyond for all the loving care they provided for our husband and father.

Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Wilford R. Anderson

Wilford Robert Anderson passed away Friday, December 27, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Wil was born on February 21, 1927, on the South East Side of Chicago, Illinois, son of Ernest and Helna Anderson, first generation Swedish immigrants. He was active at Bethel Evangelical Free Church where he accepted the Lord in 1939. After high school graduation, he entered the Coast Guard and was stationed in Puerto Rico during World War II. After being discharged, he enrolled at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkansas where Nancy, his childhood sweetheart, was already studying. They were married on June 14, 1947. He graduated in 1950 with a BA in Bible.

Wil then studied at Trinity Bible Institute in Chicago and was ordained in 1951; in 1952, he and Nancy followed the Lord’s leading by serving as missionaries under the Evangelical Free Church in Venezuela. He pastored churches in El Socorro, Maracay, and Caracas; he wrote scripts for radio programs; he helped start a Bible camp; he taught in a Bible institute and the Seminario Evangelico Asociado where he also served as rector; he authored several books; and he was a much sought after youth conference speaker. During these years, he completed a MDiv (1964), ThM in Practical Theology (1969), and a DMin (1984), all at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. However, as a dad, Friday afternoons and many Saturdays were reserved to take his four children and their friends fishing, swimming, or to the beach.
In 1989, Wil and Nancy moved to Miramar, Florida. He taught at the Trinity International University campus in Florida; served Reachglobal (EFCA International Mission) and the EFCA Southeast District by assisting various Hispanic churches; he made four trips to Cuba to speak at church camps, teach at a seminary, and give conferences; he also traveled to Haiti multiple times to teach and preach; he was active in the Miramar Evangelical Free Church. Now as a grampa, he derived great joy taking his children and a growing number of grandsons fishing and to the beach – but with his boat, the Selah.

In 2007, Wil and Nancy moved to Dubuque, Iowa to be closer to family. During these years he treasured the Anderson family reunions in Ludington, Michigan and in Dubuque. He authored two books about his ministry in Venezuela and trips to Cuba; he wrote poetry and composed songs; he learned how to make videos on his computer and created many clips for his family and friends from a lifetime of photographs and videos; and he was active at Hope Church. Wil and Nancy celebrated their 75th anniversary in 2022. Later that year, they moved to Luther Manor where he wrote his final book, a devotional entitled, In His Hands.

On Friday, December 27, he went to be with the Lord whom he had served throughout his life; and he was also reunited with Nancy, his love of 77 years, who had preceded him by 25 days.

Wilford is survived by his children, Keith (Judy) Anderson of Palatine, Illinois, Kurt (Peggy) Anderson of Trevor, Wisconsin, Kent (Ann) Anderson of Dubuque, and Karin Anderson of Dubuque, nine grandsons and their wives, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy (Emery) Anderson, his parents Ernest and Helna (Rydbeck) Anderson, his two brothers Lawence Anderson and Raymond Anderson, and his two sisters Lucille (Anderson) Mulholland and Betty (Anderson) Cook.

A memorial service for Wilford is scheduled for 10:30a.m., Saturday,  June 14, 2025 at Hope Church, Dubuque, after which both he and Nancy will be interred at Linwood Cemetery.

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

Gari J. McDermott

Gari J. McDermott, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 24, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday January 7, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A wake service will begin at 3:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 8, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Gari was born on February 8, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, son of Carl and Camilla (Fitzpatrick) McDermott. He grew up alongside his cousins Jeff and Danny Sommers. The three of them were very close. He graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque in 1959. He honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1963-1966. He was married to Judith Palmer for 33 years, and together they had five kids before going their separate ways. He worked for Northwestern Bell phone company for over 25 years. Gari was a simple man who was a jack-of-all-trades. He enjoyed staying busy and tackling any project that came his way, whether it was repairing a house or fixing a car. “If you want it done right, you got to do it yourself!” He also enjoyed relaxing and watching his television, especially when his beloved Green Bay Packers were playing.

Gari is survived by his children Beth McDermott of Chicago, IL, Jeff McDermott and Shawn McDermott of Dubuque, Russ McDermott of Dickeyville, WI, and Daniel McDermott of St. Paul, MN, two grandchildren Garrett and Calla McDermott of St. Paul, MN; cousin Jeff (Loretta) Sommers; nine nieces and nephews of the Egan family including Kris, Greg (Megan), Angie Olds, Kevin, Mike, Julie (Andy) Willenborg, Ron, Amy (Brad) Blum, Erin (Tim) Sprengelmeyer, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents John & Margaret (Casey) McDermott and maternal grandparents Harold “Hal” & Clara (Slattery) Fitzpatrick; aunt Adeline Sommers-Sweeney, sister Gloriann (Patrick) Egan, niece Laura (Egan) Heiderscheit, great niece Faith Willenborg, and cousin Danny Sommers.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, MercyOne, and Stonehill Care Center for all of their care of dad.

Guy S. Otterbeck

Guy S. “Steve” Otterbeck, age 74, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 2, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Steve’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Steve’s family.

Steve was born on September 21, 1950, in Fort Dodge, IA, a son to Wilber and Carol (Warner) Otterbeck, Sr.  He honorably served his county with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Steve trained to be a diesel mechanic while in the Army and proudly shared those skills with John Deere Dubuque Works upon returning home.  He later earned his X-13 Mechanic Certification and faithfully invested for over 43 years at Deere’s while working primarily in the Experimental Department in the ADV Lab.  Steve didn’t leave his skills at work though as his talents were immeasurable and he was well known as the “Master Fixer of Everything” to those who knew him well.  He enjoyed everything about hot rods and if he wasn’t working on his own 1932 Model A truck, you could surely find him helping a friend bring his project up to the next level anytime he was asked.

Steve enjoyed the outdoors almost as much as he did wrenching in the garage with his favorite music playing in the background.  A little 4-wheeling was always an acceptable way to spend an afternoon, but if the request came in to spending a little time with his fishing pole in hand, or some hunting on a crisp fall day, you could be sure Steve would be right here to play his part perfectly.  But, for those who knew and loved Steve the most, it was undeniable that spending time with his family and friends was always his greatest joy and having his most prized possession, his dog, Lou by his side was a very close second (and some might even say it was an even tie).  We are deeply saddened by the loss of Steve in our physical lives and can only hope that the love and legacy he leaves behind will now help to ease the pain of this loss in time.  Thank you, Steve, for being true to yourself, making sure that those whom you adored and appreciated knew it to be so, and for never allowing the trials of life to overcomplicate the simple fact that each day is a gift and how we handle that gift is entirely up to us.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we see your heart-melting grin once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Steve include,

his three children,
Holly (David) Field, Dubuque, IA,
Hope (Nick) Hess, Dubuque, IA,
and Troy Otterbeck, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Courtney (Cody) Uppena, Carter Fens, Landon (fiancé Karly Cerda) Hess, Caleb Hess, August Hess, Emmett Hess, Emma Hess, Angelina Otterbeck, Alexis Otterbeck, Isabelle Otterbeck, and Riley Fens-Field;

his great-grandchildren,
Remington Uppena, Rigley Uppena, and Ryker Stierman;

his special friend,
Lucia Sriram, Miami, FL;

his ex-wife,
Linda Wilson, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Dennis Zielski, McGregor, IA;

along with  numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; his infant twins, Lisa and Jamie Otterbeck; and his siblings, Melody (George) Frommelt, Wilber (Nancy) Otterbeck, Jr., David (Deb) Otterbeck, and Deb Otterbeck-Zielski.

Steve’s family would like to thank Dr. Thomas Schreiber, his staff, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sheila A. Brown

Shelia A. Brown, 79, of Dubuque IA, passed away November 14, 2024, at home.

A private burial was held at Holy Family Cemetery, New Melleray. A celebration of life will be held January 19, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Peosta Community Center. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Shelia was born July 1, 1945, in Dubuque IA, to Paul and Helen (McDermott) Brown. She graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1963 and worked for over 44 years for Flexsteel in the Information System Department.

She was proud of her Irish heritage and attending festivals in Dubuque, Waterloo, La Crosse and Milwaukee. She enjoyed a trip to Ireland with three of her siblings.

Shelia is survived by her siblings, Sharon (Rick) Kasper, Gary (Beth) Brown, Margie (Duane) Schueller all of Dubuque, and Glen (Ronna) Brown of Farley IA; sister-in-law Flora Brown of Dubuque, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, siblings Gale, Jerry “Holmes” and Lyle, sister-in-law Nancy Brown and nephew Corey Schueller.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank the community at Oak Park Place for their companionship to Shelia.

George W. Holland

With hearts full of cherished memories and a profound sense of gratitude, we announce the passing of George William Holland. He left this world on December 31, 2024 to embrace the next chapter of life’s adventure with Jesus.

George was born to the parents of Albert and Leona (Mahler) Holland on November 25, 1951 in Sac City, Iowa. George graduated from Waseca Sacred Heart High School in 1969 in Waseca Minnesota. George continued his education earning a degree from Wayne State College in Nebraska. George dedicated 50 years of his life educating students and being an advocate for teachers. George held many roles throughout his years in education. With each role, he took great pride in the people he connected with. He had a passion and dedication to make a difference in his community.

George had an avid love for Disney, theater production, collecting nativities for his museum, baking and decorating cakes, quilting, and caring for his well loved dogs. George led an honest life with a caring approach. He looked for the best in people and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

George is survived by his niece Michelle (Kevin) Blaha, great-nephew Bradley (Michelle) Blaha, great-niece Stephanie (Andrew) Nims, great-great Nephews; Caden Blaha, Kemper Blaha, Camden Blaha, Cole Blaha and great-great niece Addilynn Nims. George is survived by his friend Tim Krom and his niece Keri (Tim) Miller and great niece Natalee Miller.  George is also survived by Robert Sable, Renee Kruchten and Garrett Kruchten.

George is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Leona (Mahler) Holland, Sisters; Mary Lou Wilson, and Elaine Sable and niece Carmen Sable.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday January 11, 2025 at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, from 1 PM to 4 PM followed by a memorial service at 4 PM. Family and Friends are invited to share stories, laughter, and tears in remembrance of the beautiful life George led. George will be peacefully laid to rest alongside his parents at Owatonna Memorial Garden following another Celebration of life at a later date in Owatonna, Minnesota.