Obituaries Archive

Lois M. Cipalo

Lois Marquerite (Philippi) Cipalo, 91, passed into our Lord’s arms on June 21, 2026 at Hawkeye Care Facility in Dubuque, Iowa.

John F. Ley

Onalee Keeney

Onalee Keeney, 94, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully in her home on Monday morning, June 22, 2026.

Onalee Paulsen was born on February 14, 1932, in Lost Nation, Iowa, to Roy A. and Glatha L. (Hohn) Paulsen.  She was a graduate of Elwood High School and then received her CNA training and certificate from Clinton Community College.  She married Reynolds Owen Keeney on December 7, 1952, in Elwood, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Neale, Larry, and John.

Before her marriage to Reynolds, Onalee worked at the Fish’N’Tackle Company in Maquoketa.  She then worked for several years at Ensign Coil in Bellevue and lastly as a CNA at the Jackson County Public Hospital and Crestridge Nursing Home, both in Maquoketa.

Onalee was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Maquoketa.  She enjoyed flower gardening, traveling and spending time with her family.

Those left to honor Onalee’s memory include her children, Larry (Sherry) Keeney of Elwood, IA, and John (Julie) Keeney of Maquoketa, IA; sister, Carolyn Dennis of Lakeland, FL; 7 grandchildren, Terra (Michael) Stoeffler, Jason Keeney, Tiffany (Tyson) Vorderstrasse, Jami (Ethan) Wanzek, Rebecca Keeney, Matt Matthewson, and Brian Matthewson; 7 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Reynolds on March 9, 2006, son Neale on March 23, 2024, and a brother Allen (Marilyn) Paulsen.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, June 26, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Robert A. Neuwoehner

Robert A. “Bob” Neuwoehner, 83, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, June 14, 2026, at home.

Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 25, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, June 26, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 2921 Central Ave., Dubuque.

Bob was born November 22, 1942, the son of Robert and Marion (Kendrick) Neuwoehner. He was raised in Dubuque and attended Catholic schools through college, graduating from Loras College in Dubuque. Bob joined the U.S. Navy in 1965. He married Alana Becker of Independence, IA in 1967. They then moved to Rhode Island, where Bob was stationed at Quonset Point Naval Base. Bob was proud to serve as an anti-submarine pilot on the carrier USS Wasp. He was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant.

In 1969, he and Alana returned to Dubuque. Bob became a realtor, and was a co-founder of American Realty, Dubuque’s longest continually operating real estate company. He retired after 55 years.

Bob was a keen outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a founding member of the local Pheasants Forever chapter.

Bob and Alana were avid ballroom dancers. They taught ballroom dance throughout the tri-state area, as well as on cruise ships traveling as far away as Australia, South America, and the Caribbean. Through dance, they met many, many people, and developed long-lasting, wonderful friendships with so many of them.

Bob was a much-loved son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He was kind, hardworking, and always willing to help a friend. Quite simply, Bob was one of the good guys.

Bob is survived by his wife Alana; three sons, of whom he was extremely proud, Greg (Stephanie) Neuwoehner, Scott (Kim Hackett) Neuwoehner, and Ryan (Mary) Neuwoehner;  seven grandchildren, Sydney, Alex, Caitlyn, Meara, Max, Jack, and Emily Neuwoehner; his siblings, Carol (Jim Purtell) Bitter,  Russell (Jeannie) Neuwoehner, Leslie (Colin) Collins, and Sara (John) Wagner; his brothers-in-law, Steven (Debra) Becker, Greg (Sue) Becker, and Tom (Sue) Becker; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert F. Neuwoehner and Marion (Kendrick) Neuwoehner; and his parents- in-law, Jim and Joyce Becker, of Independence, IA.

In lieu of flowers, a Bob Neuwoehner Memorial Fund has been established to benefit local causes. The family would like to thank Dr. Eric Engleman and his wonderful staff, as well as Hospice of Dubuque, for their exceptional care and compassion.

Larry L. McCutcheon

Larry L. McCutcheon, 80, of Bellevue, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, June 18, 2026.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Larry was born on February 14, 1946, in Iowa City, Iowa, the son of Donald L. and Doris L. (Kempter) McCutcheon. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. On June 28, 1980, Larry was united in marriage to Romel Kucera.

Larry cherished time spent with family and friends, especially gathering in the garage to share stories and laughter. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and making memories with those he loved most.

Those left to honor Larry’s memory include his wife, Romel McCutcheon; his children, Tina (Dave Hardison) Bennett, Dawn (Joe) Crist, and Melisa (Joel) Kilburg; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his siblings, Robert (Lori) McCutcheon, Dennis (Renee) McCutcheon, Mark McCutcheon, and Lisa McCutcheon; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Krista McCutcheon, Diana Burkey, Connie (John) Chantos, Doug (Amy) Kucera, and Dan (Mary) Kucera; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Doris McCutcheon; his father- and mother-in-law, Charles and Elaine Kucera; his brothers, Ronald and Randy McCutcheon; and his brother-in-law, John Burkey.

The family would like to thank everyone for their kindness, support, and prayers during this difficult time.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, c/o Larry McCutcheon Family, 100 N. 6th Street, Bellevue, IA 52031.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com or on the Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service Facebook page.

Carlton A. Busch

Carlton A. Busch, 92, of La Motte, IA, passed away Thursday June 18, 2026, at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, IA. A funeral service for Carlton will follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will take place in St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery, in St. Donatus, IA. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.

Carlton was born on December 30, 1933, in La Motte, IA, the son of John and Frieda (Lubs) Busch. He was united in marriage to Shirley A. Miller on January 31, 1959, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, IA, where they were both members. Carlton served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. He was a lifelong farmer and served as the Jackson Co. Weed Commissioner for many years. Carlton and his wife Shirley enjoyed escaping the cold Iowa winters every year in Arizona visiting family and friends.

Carlton acquired a lifetime’s worth of wisdom as a husband, father, farmer, and businessman, and one of the greatest joys of his life was to share that wisdom with others. He took particular pleasure in passing that wisdom on to his grandchildren and took tremendous pride in knowing that his legacy was not his own successes, but in the impact he had upon future generations of Busch boys and girls.

He is survived by his children, Carlton Jr “Butch” (Janice) Busch of Surprise, AZ, Richard (Kimberly) Busch of Dubuque, IA, and Rebecca (Robert) Harjehausen of La Motte, IA; daughter-in-law, Lisa (Tom) Harmon of Zwingle, IA; seven grandchildren: Brandon, Ryan, Nathan, Alyssa, Mitchell, Lucas and Adam; three step-granddaughters Angela, Amy and Jennifer; 11 great grandchildren; eight step-great grandchildren; siblings-in-law: Janet Busch, Mary Kay Busch, Donna Busch, Betty McPhail, Carol Blume and Harold (Rita) Miller; along with many nieces and nephews.

Carlton is preceded in death by his loving wife, Shirley; their son Allen Busch; his parents, John and Frieda; brothers, Harvey, Norman, Eldon and Roger Busch; brothers-in-laws, LeRoy Miller, Gary McPhail, Robert Schmerbach, Robert Becker, and Robert Blume.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

June A. Hallahan

June A. Hallahan, age 94, of Dubuque, passed away just shy of her 95th birthday on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, surrounded by her family at Bethany Home.  To celebrate June’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026 at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

June was born on June 22, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Louis and Bertha (Miller) Armbruster Sr.

June was a lifelong resident of Dubuque.  She married the love of her life, William Hallahan Sr., on October 7, 1950, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.  They celebrated 59 years of marriage before Bill passed away on September 30, 2010.  She was a devoted wife, mom and homemaker.  She was a long time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, where she was a member of the Rosary Society.  She also volunteered with Handicapped Persons Inc., taking care of residence parking, fund raising and helping with bingo nights.  June enjoyed camping, fishing, puzzles, playing cards and trying her luck at the casino.  She really enjoyed several trips to Arizona with her son Bill to visit family.

June lived a good, long, wonderful life and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Those left to cherish June’s memory include

her children,
Bonnie Gross, Mesa, AZ,
William Hallahan, Jr., Dubuque, IA,
Nancy Donahue, Mesa, AZ
and Mary Konzen, Dubuque, IA;

7 grandchildren,
Chad, Corey, Jennifer, Michelle, Mike, Tiffany and Paige;

10 great-grandchildren;

3 great-great-grandchildren;

a sister,
Bonnie Lou Vosberg, Dubuque, IA;

and her best friend for over 60 years,
Norma (Willy) Kraus, Dubuque, IA.

June was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William Hallahan Sr.; a granddaughter, Karen; and 2 brothers, Louis (Emma) Armbruster and Jack Armbruster; and a sister-in-law Sharon Howell.

June’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Bethany Home for the compassionate care they have provided June.

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

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

Joseph H. Gile

Joseph H. “Joe” Gile, 50, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, June 26, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque.

Joe was born on October 16, 1975, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Rick and Diane (North) Gile.

Of all the roles Joe held in life, his favorite was being a dad. His daughters, Emma and Izzy, were his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment. Being a “Girl Dad” was the title he treasured most, his girls weren’t just part of Joe’s life—they were the center of it.

Joe never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to turn acquaintances into friends and friends into family. His kindness, easygoing nature, and genuine interest in others made everyone feel welcome.

For more than 15 years, Joe worked at ReVosWel Truss and Lumber, where he enjoyed helping customers. He loved what he did and the people he worked with.

Joe will be remembered for his positive spirit, his legendary shoe collection, and his loyalty to the Bears, Hawkeyes, and Cubs. Most of all, he will be remembered for the love he shared with his daughters, family, and countless friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Emma Gile (fiancé Jakob Decker) and Izzy (Trent) Busch; his father, Rick (Laurel) Gile; his brother, Matt (Amy) Gile; his sister, Amy Bisenius; family members Ann Gile, Jill Scherbring, and Jeff (Gwen) Lewis; nieces and nephews Garrett (Katie), Zachary (Callyn), Gabby Bisenius, Abbie, Steven, Danny Neville, and Genesis Gile; his mother-in-law, Charmayne McMurray; father-in-law, Larry (Peggy) McMurray; sisters-in-law, Amy Lundon and Angie (Steve) Neville; his ReVosWel family; and the countless friends who became family.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Gile.

In lieu of flowers a Joe Gile Memorial Fund has been established.

Joe’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and Medical Associates Oncology Department for their compassionate care and support throughout his journey.

Wanda M. Simpson

Wanda Marie Simpson (Millman), 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on June 17, 2026, after a short illness.

According to her wishes, no public services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Wanda was born on July 6, 1960, in Dubuque, the daughter of William and Morene (Story) Millman. She married Tom Simpson and they had one child: Billy Simpson.

Wanda is survived by her two grandchildren, Seth and Carter Simpson; daughter-in-law Teresa Simpson; three siblings, Dora (Wayne) Huseman, Norman (Angie) Millman, and Juanita “Midge” Fiasco; and special aunt Anita (Gerald) Pleiser.

Wanda was preceded in death by her parents, William and Morene; her son, Billy Simpson; and her brother Randy (Dawn) Millman.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for all their care.

Veronica A. Millius

Veronica A. Millius, 86, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on June 11, 2026 at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Steve Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Complete arrangements are pending with Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory.

Veronica was born on November 17, 1939, and grew up in Otter Creek, IA in Jackson County. She married the love of her life and best friend, James E. Millius Sr. on June 5th, 1963, in Dubuque Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 2, 2022. She would share with her family she wasn’t done talking with him yet and missed him every day since.

Veronica devoted much of her life to caring for others. While her children were young, she did daycare from her home, nurturing and caring for many children. When all of her children were in school, she started cleaning homes and businesses throughout the community. More than a job, her work allowed her to form meaningful friendships and lasting relationships with families and businesses she served. She cherished those connections and often spoke of the wonderful people who became part of her life over the years.

To know Veronica was to love her. She was truly one of a kind – gracious, generous and a natural caregiver whose fierce, vibrant spirit lit up every room she entered. She protected her family with unwavering devotion, and there was no better person to have in your corner. Her giving nature shone through in everything she did, and she had a remarkable way of making everyone around her feel seen, valued and special.

She is survived by her children Ann (Nick) Hosch, Rob (Judy) Millius, Jodi (Charlie) Digmann, and Dean (Patti) Millius, all of Dubuque; grandchildren Gracie and Connor Hosch, Luke, Logan, and Drew (Sophie) Millius, Tyler Millius, Jamie (Miles) Wille, Mitchell (Nellie) Millius, Jackson (Kasey) Digmann, Heidi (Nate) Stevenson, and Daniel (Brooke) Millius; great grandchildren Weston, Fletcher and Mattie Wille, Emma and Violet Stevenson, Harper Millius, and another one on the way in August; siblings Monica Hentges and Charles Beauchamp; brother-in-law Dave Theisen; sister-in-law Sherri Taylor; and many nieces and nephews.

Veronica is now reunited with her husband and beloved son, James “Jimmy” Jr. The family finds deep comfort in knowing they were both at Heaven’s gates to welcome her home and in that moment of reunion knowing she heard the words she longed to hear from Jimmy after 20 years apart, “Mother, let’s go.”

She is also preceded in death by her parents, sister, Elaine Malony, sister-in law, Beverly Beauchamp, brother-in-law, Robert Hentges, mother-in-law Fern “Marie” Holderman and in-laws, Robert and Violet Millius.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jeremiah, Michelle and all the staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion, along with the staff at Stonehill Memory Care, where she kept things lively and freely gave life advice to all the “young gals” in the unit.

Sr. Ruth Fagan

Sister Ruth (Lucian) Fagan, 90, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

Visitation will be at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center from 10:00-11:30 a.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026 followed by Funeral Mass at Clare House Chapel at 1:00 p.m. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans Burial of cremains will be at a later date at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site.

Ruth was born on February 28, 1936 in Zwingle, IA to Francis and Florence (Collins) Fagan.

Ruth entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1953 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1959. Sister received her masters degree in religious education from St. Thomas University, Houston, TX. She ministered in Iowa at Templeton, Jefferson, and in Dubuque at Sacred Heart, Archdiocesan Center, Mount St. Francis Center, and Stonehill Care Center; in Minnesota at Minneapolis and St. Cloud; and in Georgia at Hiawassee and Cleveland.

Sister is survived by her sister-in-law, Lou Ann (Burkle) Fagan, nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, Marie (David) Thier and Jeanne Fagan, and brother, Joe Fagan.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to 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.

Mary M. Feltes

Mary M. (Savary) Feltes, 88, of Dubuque, departed this world to be reunited with her beloved husband Don on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Visitation will be held at 9:00 am to 9:45 am Saturday, June 20, 2026 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be 10:00 am Saturday, June 20, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born on April 18, 1938, in Dubuque, the daughter of John H. and Loretta M. (Penning) Savary. On September 14, 1957, she married Donald D. Feltes in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Mary graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in 1956.

Mary was a domestic engineer. She was previously employed by Xavier Hospital and loved her time there. She was also a domestic engineer for many families over the years.

Mary was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. She was a Lifetime member of St. Mary’s Parish, former member of the Stonehill Auxiliary, Immaculate Conception Alumni, Xavier Guild, and Catholic Daughters of America.

Mary was an excellent cook and baker. She enjoyed sewing and crocheting and loved her basset hound Cricket. Don and Mary enjoyed traveling extensively throughout the United States and Canada.

Mary is survived by many nieces and nephews, four special ones: John and Annette Savary and Ruth and Tracy Lang. She is also survived by her godchildren Steve Willging, Steve Savary, and Steve Kleinschrodt.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, Donald D. Feltes, her parents John H. and Loretta M. (Penning) Savary, father and mother-in law George M. and Rose C. (Michel) Feltes, a brother John J. and Elizabeth M. (Feltes) Savary, brother and sister-in laws, Ivan and Mary Agnes Feltes, Lester Feltes, Eldred and Mary Lou Feltes, Velma and Jack Corbett, and Ruth and Louie Hayes, and her godchild Tim Faley.

A heartfelt thanks goes to the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their love, support, and care of Mary.

In lieu of flowers, a Mary M. Feltes memorial fund has been established.

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

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

Elizabeth A. Atkins

Elizabeth Anne Atkins, age 72, of Cedar Rapids, IA, completed her earthly journey on June 13, 2026, at Dubuque Specialty Care, with her daughter, Dori, by her side. To honor Elizabeth’s life, a private family committal is being held under the care of the Tri-State Cremation Center.

Elizabeth was born on January 23, 1954, in Corpus Christi, TX, daughter to Gene and Sue Anne (Graham) Turner. Gifted with an artist’s spirit and a fierce independent streak, she spent her youth loving the beach, surfing, and listening to the Beatles, Rock and Roll, and Blues Music. Though she attended a private Catholic school in her hometown, she ultimately walked her own path in life.

As a young Navy wife, she moved across the country, living in Virginia Beach, VA; Charleston, South Carolina; Jacksonville, Florida, and Macon, Georgia. When her marriage ended in Georgia, her legendary resilience emerged. With the assistance of her brother Matt, she packed up her young daughters and drove them all the way to Anchorage, Alaska—braving the rugged, unpaved Alcan Highway. Demonstrating her fierce independence, she would later make that massive, challenging drive a second time entirely on her own with her beloved girls.

Elizabeth successfully raised her daughters with a high school education, teaching them by example what it meant to be self-reliant. She spent her working career primarily as a medical receptionist, investing her time and talents with the Iowa Eye Center and RCI Imaging Center in Cedar Rapids, IA. She took great pride in her work but also fiercely guarded her personal life. She expressed her rich inner world through photography, detailed pen and ink drawings, poetry, and a memorable trip to Italy. She also possessed a deep love for music, spending many evenings at live blues events in Cedar Rapids.

In her later years, Elizabeth chose a life of privacy. She deeply cherished her own space, finding comfort in the quiet, and embraced a peaceful, solitary life. For Elizabeth, a perfect day was found in the absolute peace of her own home, sitting comfortably on her couch with a cold Diet Pepsi and Judge Judy on the TV.

Those left to cherish the memory of Elizabeth include her two daughters, Carrie Anne (Glen) Coppin of Ruskin, FL, and Dori Keegan Atkins Sevde of Dubuque, IA; her three adored grandchildren, Graham Keegan Sevde, Meyer Paul Sevde, and Sadie Brynn Coppin; her siblings, Johanna Gene Turner, Mark Graham (Lori) Turner, Leslie “Dee” Lynne (Mike) Turner, and Jon Kyle Hannah; her step-father, Kyle Herbert Hannah; and many extended family members. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gene and Sue Anne Turner; her brother, Matthew Aaron Turner; and her nephew, Simon Mitchell Antonucci.

In keeping with Elizabeth’s explicit wishes, no formal funeral or memorial services will be held. She preferred to be remembered privately in the hearts of those who loved her. Her family will fulfill her final request by returning her cremated remains to the ocean, scattering her ashes at sea so she may rest eternally in the waters she loved.

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

Irene Menegas Beadle

Irene “Nene” Menegas Beadle, 89, passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026 in Galena, IL surrounded by her loving children after a brief illness. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Monday, June 22, 2026, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 9 AM until the time of mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Irene was born on March 8, 1937, to her Greek immigrant parents, Nicholas and Kaliope (Vrotsos) Menegas. Irene was born at the family home on Bench Street in Galena as the last of seven children. Irene attended school in Galena and graduated with the Galena High School Class of 1955. She and her classmates gathered regularly for lunches to catch up — something she really enjoyed. After high school, she studied education at the University of Dubuque.

She married Thomas R. “Pat” Beadle in May 1958. In her early years of marriage, she worked as a bookkeeper for Rooster Mills Feed in Dubuque, IA. She then chose to be a stay-at-home mother and devoted wife. Together she and Pat raised seven children and proudly restored their historic brick family home on Meeker Street. This home is on the Illinois Historic Preservation Register. Irene provided a loving home for her children but ran a tight ship. There were always three meals on the table and a homemade dessert every day after school. Irene was warm, loyal, and selfless — these gifts are present in her children and grandchildren. Irene was simple and humble. She was happy with a long car ride, Friday night fish fry dates, attending sporting and school events as well as all the family gatherings with lots of good food.  She was a fixture at Galena Pirate basketball games and also followed Cuba City basketball for many years. Anyone that knew her well would know that you could sit and talk high school and college basketball with her. She was also an avid New York Yankees fan and named her beloved dog “Jeter.” She was a great cook with one of her signature dishes being affectionately named “Grandma Nene Rice.” She also loved traditional Greek dishes like baklava and avogolemo soup. She was very proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and visited with them often. Later in life, when her kids were in school, Irene restarted her career and worked for the State of Illinois Historic Preservation office for 25 years. She loved Galena, and Galena loved her.

She will be forever missed by her family and friends. Surviving are five daughters, Kalli (Brian) Trevarthen, Laurie (Michael) Sproule, Leigh Ann (David) Eaton, all of Galena; Jayne (Joe) VandeMerkt-Cahill, of Geneva, IL; and Catherine (Bradley) Lenschow of Burlington, IL; and son Patrick (Martha) Beadle of Galena. Fourteen grandchildren, Anna Sproule (Matt) Heller, Lucas (Jenna) Trevarthen, Carmen (Mitchell) Phillips, William (Stephanie) VandeMerkt, Alexandra (Charlie) Faye, Jack VandeMerkt, Madeline (Lane) Morrison, Jacob Lenschow, Ellyn Lenschow, Michael Beadle, Emma Eaton (Josh Buss), Elizabeth Irene Eaton (Will Schott), and Samuel Eaton. Nine great-grandchildren, Zachary, Leah Irene, and Alaina Heller; Lettie, Leslee, and Landon Trevarthen; Halle and Tanner Phillips; and Ava VandeMerkt. Surviving is her sister-in-law, Joan Beadle.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a son Michael Beadle, a grandson, Nicholas Sproule, and a son-in-law, Scott VandeMerkt. Also preceding her within the Menegas family were her brothers, George and Harry Menegas, and her sisters, Lila Heim, Frances “Frannie” Carter, Demetria “Tulie” Jameson, and Theodora “Dorie” Jaeger. Preceding her on the Beadle side were her parental in-laws, William and Wilhelmina Beadle, and her brothers and sisters in law, Helen Petitgoue, Frances Murphy, Florence Bautsch, William Beadle, Jr., Donald Beadle, Vera Wienen, Catherine Seelye, Lucille Rusboldt, Virginia Armstrong, and Joanne “Nan” Foecking.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The Galena Foundation, The Galena Education Foundation, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to express a heartfelt thank you to Galena’s Fire and EMS Departments, Dr. Matt Gullone and the Midwest Medical Center Staff, Midwest Senior Care Nursing Center Staff, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

John Lovell

John “Jack” Lovell, 89, was welcomed into eternal life surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, service, and devotion to those he loved.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45 a.m., Thursday, June 18, 2026, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Dubuque, where a Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Mark Ressler officiating. A livestream of the funeral Mass can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/event/5998596. Burial will follow in St. Francis de Sales Cemetery, Hazel Green, Wisconsin, where full military honors will be accorded by the Hazel Green American Legion Post #526 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jack was born on January 16, 1937, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, to Eugene and Agnes (Murray) Lovell. The third oldest of eight children, he grew up on family farms in the Fennimore, Cuba City, and Hazel Green area, where he developed a strong work ethic, a deep appreciation for family, and a love of the outdoors. He enjoyed playing football and baseball and graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. Committed to lifelong learning, he later earned his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Stout.

Jack proudly served in the United States Army. While stationed overseas, he embraced a spirit of adventure that remained with him throughout his life. Upon returning home, Jack married Mary Splinter on August 13, 1966. They were just two months shy of celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary. Together they built a beautiful life and family in Dubuque.

For more than 30 years, Jack was a beloved Industrial Arts teacher and football coach who impacted generations of students with his patience, wisdom, and steady encouragement. He was a lifelong sports enthusiast who rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his children and grandchildren. He was also a devoted fan of the Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers, and Chicago Cubs.

Faith was at the center of Jack’s life. A devoted member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, he generously served his church community for many years. Summers in Waupaca held a special place in his heart, as did the annual Lovell Campout, a cherished family tradition that brought loved ones together for more than 52 years and continues to grow. He loved fishing and hunting with family and friends and was a gifted carpenter and woodworker who took pride in sharing his craft with others.

Jack will be remembered for his quick wit, memorable one-liners, gentle humor, and the sparkle that was always present in his eye. His kindness touched everyone he met, and his quiet presence made people feel welcome and valued.

One of Jack’s greatest gifts to his family was a book he wrote about his life, preserving his stories and memories for future generations. Above all, he cherished his family. He adored his grandchildren and was overjoyed to welcome his great-grandson, Gryffin.

Jack is survived by his wife, Mary; children, Anne (Jamie) Trausch of East Dubuque, Illinois, Cindy (Gerry) Clark of Waunakee, Wisconsin, and Matt (Holly) Lovell of Verona, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Kelly (Jake) Norton of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Luke (fiancée Rachel Mathis) Frommelt of Appleton, Wisconsin, Caroline Lovell and Jack Lovell of Verona, Wisconsin; and great-grandson, Gryffin Norton of Colorado Springs, Colorado. He is also survived by his siblings, Gary Lovell, Maureen Fabian, Mary (Ron) Dankert, and Mike (Jean) Lovell; in-laws, Donald Splinter, June Price, Joyce (Wayne) Fowler, Margo Lovell, and Susan Lovell. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Tom Lovell, Leonard Lovell, and Lawrence Lovell; brothers-in-law, Jerry Fabian, Charlie Richardson, Jerry Price, and Jim Lynch; and sisters-in-law, Joan Lovell, Shirley Richardson, and Donna Splinter.

We are honored to celebrate a life well lived and a man deeply loved. Jack’s legacy lives on in the family he treasured, the students he taught, the traditions he created, and the countless lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, a John “Jack” Lovell Memorial Fund has been established where donations will be distributed to Jack’s favorite charities.

Jack’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Mount Carmel Bluffs and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

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