Obituaries Archive

Eleanor Hamilton

Eleanor Hamilton (nee Curtis) passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Hill View Health Care Center in La Crosse, Wisconsin at the age of 76. She was born and raised in Hazel Green Wisconsin. Attended Benton and Hazel Green Grade schools and graduated from Hazel Green High School in 1966. She obtained a registered nursing degree from Madison Methodist Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin. She worked for the VA medical centers in multiple locations until she retired from the Tomah VA in 1996.

In 1982 Eleanor met the love of her life James (Jim) Hamilton and they were married until his death in 2024. Through the years they experienced many adventures together.

She also became a stepmother and grandmother to Jim’s family and loved them very much.

Eleanor is survived by two stepchildren: Paul (Sarah) Hamilton of Tomah, WI and Carl (Jennifer) Hamilton of Westby, WI. Six Step grandchildren: Kin, Levi, Brandie, Airiel, Haylie, Jayden; a sister Phyllis Olds, and brother Donald (Janet) Curtis.

Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband Jim Hamilton and her parents Oswald and Beryle Curtis and a brother-in-law Dan Olds.

Funeral services will be held 1:00pm on Monday, April 21, 2025, at the Vosseteig Funeral Home, 203 N State St., La Farge, WI. Rev. Bob Streeter will officiate. Burial will follow in the Viola Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until the time of the service. Online condolences may be left at www.fossumfuneralhome.com.

Roland N. Stecklein

Roland N. “Rollie” Stecklein, 98, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away, Saturday, April 19, 2025 at Riverbend in Cascade, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Rollie will be held from 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m.  Visitation will continue after 9 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian burial for Roland will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.   Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Placid, Iowa.

He was born November 26, 1926 in Sherrill Mound, Iowa, son of Edmund R. and Martina M. (Kurt) Stecklein.  He received his education in the Sherrill Mound and then Cascade area schools.  On January 3, 1955 he was united in marriage to Theresa Leib at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.  The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area, the profession he truly enjoyed.  He was a gentle man with his animals, caring for them meticulously.  After retiring he had another 36 years to enjoy.   He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

He loved fishing, he would fish everyday if he could, the 17 years they had at Buenie were some of the best…he enjoyed playing card with family and friends.

He was a very devoted husband and father, grandfather and great grandfather

He is survived by his wife, Theresa Stecklein of Cascade; seven children, David (Karen) Stecklein of MS, Julie (Mike) Wheaton of Peosta, Tim Stecklein of Cascade, Tom (Mary Beth) Stecklein of Temple Hill, Jolene Stecklein of Bernard (& Andrew O’Connell), Jill (Wade) Koopmann  and Jeff (Kelly) Stecklein both of Placid; 13 Grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; two sisters, Shirley Hoffmann of Cascade and Judi (Al) Westhoff of Portland, OR; brothers and sisters-in-laws, Jim Goblirsch of Sleepy Eye, MN, Marian Stecklein of Bellevue, Barbara Stecklein of Cascade and Shirley Stecklein of Monticello.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a great grandson, Braxton; three brothers, Ed Stecklein, Clem Stecklein and Lloyd Stecklein; four sisters, Mary Eileen Stecklein, Madonna (Bill Otting and Roger Tucker) Otting-Tucker, Marina (Elmer) Lehmann and Jane Goldirsch; his in-laws, Donald Leib, Howard Leib, Richard Leib, and Dennis (Madonna) Leib, Delores (Cyril “Billy”) Urbain, and Dola (Edwin) Kramer; and a nephew, Randy Leib and a niece, Mary Eileen Kramer.

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

The family would like to thank the staff of Riverbend Retirement Community and Hospice of Dubuque for all the care and support given to him and our family.

Donald W. Peters

Donald W. Peters, 82, of Galena, IL, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Midwest Medical Senior Care Center in Galena. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may call from 10 AM until the time of the service. His cremated remains will be interred in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, with military honors accorded at the graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

Don was born on April 6, 1943, in Galena, the son of Harry J. and Hazel J. (Bills) Peters. He graduated from Galena High School and enlisted in the United States Army on May 27, 1965, serving in the Signal Corps during the Vietnam War until his honorable discharge on May 10, 1967. He worked as a boiler operator at the Savanna Army Depot for thirty-three years until his retirement in 2000. Don enjoyed tinkering in his garage and restoring classic cars and trucks. He loved attending classic car shows and made many friends through this shared passion. He also cherished spending time with his sister-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

He is survived by his sister-in-law, Maxine Peters, along with his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Richard “RJ” and Victor Peters, a sister, Jacquelyn Brewer, a sister-in-law, Algean Peters, a brother-in-law, Richard Brewer, one niece, and one nephew.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff of Prairie Ridge and Midwest Medical Senior Care Center, as well as Hospice of Dubuque, for the compassion and care they provided to Don.

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

Jadyn N. Hesselmann

Jadyn N. Hesselmann, 21, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will be at St. Ann’s Catholic Cemetery in Long Grove, Iowa on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. Luncheon will follow at the Eldridge Community Center.

Jadyn was born on March 29, 2004, in Davenport, IA, to Mark and Tammie (Clapp) Hesselmann. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. She was a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque. She was engaged to Joseph Greve.

Jadyn loved animals, especially her and Joseph’s four cats, Tommy, Nova, Klover, and Kiwi. She believed all people were good. She loved with her whole heart and lived every day to the fullest. She was very passionate about her work at Hawkeye and adored all her residents and co-workers. She missed her father every day.

She is survived by her mother Tammie Hesselmann of Dubuque; siblings Joshua (Amanda) Curley of Moline, Ashley (Devin) Looney of Parkview, and Madison Hesselmann of Ankeny; fiancé Joseph Greve of Dubuque; and nieces Trinitee, Kailynn, and Hailie Looney.

Jadyn is preceded in death by her father Mark Hesselmann; grandparents, Thomas and Eileen Hesselmann, Leonard Clapp, and Donna Clapp.

Stanley S. Neipert

Stanley S. Neipert, 71, of Elizabeth, IL, passed away on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at his home. In keeping with his wishes, cremation rites will be performed. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Stan was born on September 1, 1953, in Iowa City, IA, to Logan and Betty Neipert. He graduated from East Waterloo High School in 1972. Stan served proudly in the United States Marine Corps for four years and then worked as a Teamster truck driver for thirty-three years. A collector of many things, Stan enjoyed items ranging from slot cars to war memorabilia. He loved to joke and play, always being his own best audience.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Diane, of Elizabeth, IL; his son, Christopher Neipert, of Waterloo, IA; his ex-wives, Cindy Cox and Jenifer Novak, both of Waterloo, IA; his stepsons, Todd and Troy Sutherland; and his stepchildren, Sean Carter, Katie (Shawn) Meusel, and Christopher (Sarah) Carter, along with five step-grandchildren: Eric, Luke, Sidney, Payton, and Everett.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Marilyn J. Knief

It is with great sadness that the family of Marilyn Jean Knief, 88, of Maquoketa, IA, announce her passing at Harmony Dubuque, on April 15,2025.

Marilyn was born in rural La Motte, IA, on October 24, 1936 to Elmer and Sylvia (Wiegert) Hankemeier, where she grew up on the familyfarm. She married the love of her life Irvin Knief on March 4, 1957, in St. Donatus, IA, where they farmed until Irvin’s death in 1991.  She then moved to Maquoketa where she worked at the Jackson County Hospital as a dietary aide until her retirement.

Marilyn was a thoughtful and caring mother, grandmother, and great grandmother that loved spending time with her friends and family.  Sheenjoyed square dancing with her late husband, quilting, and collecting bird figurines. Marilyn was a member of numerous card clubs in Maquoketa playing both Euchre and 500. She will always be remembered for her amazing home cooked meals and her famous cinnamon coffeecake. Marilyn was a dedicated member of St. John’s Lutheran Church as well as First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa IA.

Marilyn will forever be missed by her two sons, Kevin (Susan) Knief and Daniel (Gretchen) Knief, grandchildren Corey (Shannon)Manderscheid, Jamie (Tricia) Manderscheid, Mitchell (Shannon) Knief, Anthony Venki, Lucas Knief, Colton Knief, Tera (Steve) Oberbroeckling,Brianne Kirch, Justine (Wesley) Dunn, Lexi Knief, thirteen great grandchildren, sister Betty (David) Schroeder, son-in-law William Thill, and sisters-in-law, Norine Hankemeier and Judy Hankemeier.  She was preceded in death by her loving husband Irvin Knief, daughter Kimberly Thill, grandson Timothy Schiffman, parents Elmer and Sylvia Hankemeier, siblings Wilmer Hankemeier and Ray Hankemeier, as well as her father andmother-in-law, Louis and Alvina Knief.

Please join Marilyn’s family in a celebrating her life with a visitation from 9:30 to 11 A.M., Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at St. John’s LutheranChurch at St. Donatus, 32101 370th Street, Bellevue, Iowa 52031.  Funeral services will follow at 11 A.M.  Burial at St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marilyn Knief memorial fund has been established.

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

Liane Tremble

Our beloved daughter, Liane Tremble, 57, of Clinton, died Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the MercyOne Medical Center Clinton, IA, surrounded by her family and friends.

Private family services will be held at Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Liane was born January 31, 1968, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Thomas and Sandy (Drumm) Tremble.

Survivors include her parents, Thomas and Sandy Tremble of Dubuque; one daughter, Amanda (Lucas) Huseman of Bellevue; one son, Thomas Tremble of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Audrina, Weston, Duke, and Charlotte; and three nieces.

She is preceded in death by her sister, Lisa Kehl.

We would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at REM for their care and support.

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

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

Vera W. Randall

Vera W. Randall passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Ozark, Missouri. She was born on September 29, 1942, in Hilderbrand, Missouri, to Hugo F. Finger and Caroline W. (Grosse) Finger. Growing up in the heartland, Vera’s early years laid the foundation for a life devoted to education, personal growth, and community service.

Her educational journey began at Immanuel Lutheran School and continued at Perryville High School in Perryville, Missouri. During her sophomore year, she transferred to Fayette High School in Iowa, where her passion for learning truly began to flourish. That passion led her to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education with a focus on Supervision, which further deepened her commitment to teaching. Vera later earned her master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, equipping her with the knowledge and skills that would define her 25-year career in education.

In 1973, Vera began teaching physical education at Maquoketa Junior High. She quickly became a beloved figure at the school, not only as a teacher but also as a coach for girls’ basketball, a scoreboard operator for wrestling and basketball games, and a chaperone for the Cardinalettes and cheerleaders.

Outside the classroom, Vera embraced a vibrant and fulfilling life. She was active in 4-H, welcomed a foreign exchange student from Germany into her home, and enjoyed hosting bridge club gatherings. After retiring in 1998, she remained deeply involved in her community through organizations such as the Optimist Club, Lions Club, and by volunteering with the Jackson County Historical Society.

Even after relocating from Maquoketa to Ozark, Missouri, to be closer to her daughter’s family, Vera continued her commitment to service. She became active once again in the Optimist and Lions Clubs and played a key role in launching the homebound book delivery program through the Christian County Library. In every role she undertook—educator, mentor, and engaged community member—Vera touched lives and left a lasting legacy.

Vera had a deep sense of wanderlust and was a passionate world traveler. She rode a motorcycle to Alaska, bicycled through ten European countries, and visited Russia, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, and all 48 contiguous U.S. states. She cherished exploring new cultures and believed in the power of curiosity. Vera often encouraged others to keep an open mind, continue learning, read often, and always keep moving forward.

She is survived by her daughter, Doreen (Randall) Algeo of Ozark, Missouri; her grandchildren, Samuel and Sydney Algeo; and her sister, Delores McFadd. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings: Claiborne, Karl, Otto, Norman, Arlen, and Lawrence Finger, as well as her sister Frieda Gruenwald.

A memorial service celebrating Vera’s life will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A gathering of family and friends will follow from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center. Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in Vera’s name to the Jackson County Historical Society.

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

Yvonne A. Heiberger

Yvonne “Bonnie” A. Heiberger, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on April 13, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at St. Catherine Catholic Church

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Andy Upah officiating. Burial will follow in the church’s cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Bonnie was born on April 21, 1947, to Leo M. and Nereida (Monitjo) Burns. She attended Dubuque Senior High School and later married Al Heiberger on February 3, 1967. Together, they shared nearly 58 wonderful years of marriage until his passing on January 8, 2025.

Bonnie worked at Flexsteel in Dubuque and later at Rite-Hite until her retirement. She had a passion for quilting and contributed her talents to numerous quilting organizations, such as the Quilts of Valor program. In her younger years, she also enjoyed bowling as well as camping.

She is survived by her children, Angey (Ashley) Lochner and Michael (Jamie) Heiberger; five grandchildren: Katelynn, Garrett, Lindy, Piper, and Griffen; one great-grandchild on the way; her sister, JoAnn (Tim) DePauw; brothers, John (Karen) Burns, Gary (Kelly) Burns, and Jaime (Devra) Burns; in-laws, Betty and Sandy; and her beloved fur baby, Snow.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Al; her parents, Leo and Nereida; her mother in law Katherine Heiberger; her nephew, Riki Hall; and sisters-in-law, Pat and Mary.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Bonnie’s name.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and Ellen Smother for their care and support.

Ronald J. Hinzmann

Ronald (Ron) Jay Hinzmann, 85, of Kimberling City, MO, formerly of Bankston, IA, passed away peacefully at his home April 12, 2025.

Ronald was born December 24, 1939, to Russell & Evelyn (Klein) Hinzmann in Dubuque, IA.

Ronald married Clara (Pondar) December 24, 1956, and together they had 5 children; Jeffery, Kimberly, James, Jerry and Kenny. They were married for 63 years.

Ronald had worked for John Deere in Dubuque, IA and retired. After his retirement Clara and Ronald moved to Kimberling City, MO, where he lived for 28 years.

Ronald is survived by sons; James (Kari Franck)Hinzmann of Dyersville, IA and Jerry Hinzmann of Kimberling City, MO, 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren, sisters; Kay Wall and Barbara Cherry, brothers; Richard Hinzmann, Gary Hinzmann and Mark Hinzmann.

Ronald is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Clara, sons; Jeffery Hinzmann and Kenny Hinzmann, daughter, Kimberly Hinzmann Babin, grandson Ronald Kinsell, sister, Karen Hinzmann and brother, Earl Hinzmann.

No services are planned at this time.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery at a later date.  Cremation is under the direction of the Stumpff Funeral Home, Kimberling City, MO.

Michael F. Shaver

Michael F. “Mike” Shaver, age 77, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 11, 2025, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.  To honor Mike’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family and friends.

Mike was born on October 8, 1947, in Chicago, IL, a son to Earl G and Lorraine W. (Diederich) Shaver.  He honorably served his county with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War and eventually made his way to the Dubuque area after his tour was finished.  Mike ventured into a few different occupations during his working years and enjoyed each one as it presented itself.  He owned and operated Mike’s Game Store and Hobbies in Galena for many years, and also delved into apartment rentals when time allowed.  He was also an avid reader, accomplished writer and published author who focused primarily on history, guns, and of course dogs.  Mike’s canine companions, primarily German Shepherds, wanted for nothing and were the love of his life.  Mike was a simple man who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life, but if you were blessed to make it into his inner circle, his loyalty was fierce and true.  Mike lived life on his terms while consistently making sure that he was a positive force in the world around him.  His ability to unravel the complexities of life into manageable moments was uncanny and a true testament to a lesson we could all take to heart.   Thank you, Mike, for reminding us that life is what you make it and we do hope that you are enjoying eternal peace today as our hearts break in your absence.  God Bless and God Speed Dear Friend!

Those left to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his dear friends,
Dan (Anne) Hayes, Pecatonica, IL;

along with many other friends made along life’s journey.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents.

Mike’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor and Care Initiatives Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sherrian L. Walton

Sherrian L. Walton, widely known as “Tuna”, age 78, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on April 6, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sherrian’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sherrian’s family.

Sherrian was born on December 5, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to James and Mary Jane (Atchison) Kelly.  She was a kind and generous soul who continually strived to give more, take less and always with a sincere and gracious heart.  She eventually married her soul-mate, Donald Walton, and the two were blessed with many wonderful years together before he was sadly called home ahead of her.  Sherrian was truly a homemaker at heart, but she did venture outside of the home and faithfully invested many years in the housekeeping department at Dubuque Specialty Care.  She made friends wherever she went and her quick wit was never far behind if the moment struck her.

Sherrian’s love for cooking was likely not only her greatest joy, but for many around town, her greatest legacy.  Whether she was delivering cookies to the guys at Big A, or putting together her latest meal for her family to enjoy, Sherrian was undeniably in her happy place when the oven was hot and the dishes were getting dirty.  She wasn’t afraid to visit a restaurant from time to time, especially with her sister by her side, but you could easily find her right back in the kitchen as soon as possible thinking of the next delicious items she could share with those she loved and adored.  Her talents reached into the canning arena as well and it would be impossible to even attempt to count the amount of tops she sealed with both warmth and love.  Sherrian’s sacrificial mode of operation not only satisfied her spirit, but also delivered endless amounts of joy to the world around her.

We are going to miss Sherrian’s bright light and love shining so vividly in our days ahead.  Her ability to speak her mind and yet remind us through her actions that her love was boundless will surely be missed beyond measure.  Thank you, Sherrian,  for teaching us so many valuable lessons simply through your daily life and may we count each and every one of them as blessings as our hearts break in your absence moving forward.  May the Lord welcome you with open arms into His eternal rest and may your reunion with all those who’ve been waiting to see your beautiful smile once again be more joyful than we could even imagine.

Those left to cherish the memory of Sherrian include,

her son,
Patrick (Michelle) Frommelt, Dubuque, IA;

her most loved person in the world, her grandson,
Jason (Brittany) Frommelt, Farley, IA;

her three adored great-grandchildren,
Carter Dietz, Brady Frommelt, and Avery Frommelt;

her siblings,
Jeanie Frommelt, Dubuque, IA,
Timothy (Darlene) Kelly, Ballinger, TX,
and James (Brenda) Kelly, Jr., Ballinger, TX;

her sister-in-law,
Barbara Kelly, Dubuque, IA;

her godson,
Noah (Bryce) Hollis, Mauston, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Sherrian was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald Walton; her son, John Frommelt; her brother, Terry Kelly; and her nephew, David Frommelt.

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

Ann Bochniak

Ann “Annie” Bochniak, 64, of Galena, IL, passed away on Saturday, April 12, 2025, with her family by her side. Her final day on earth was “glorious,” as she kept repeating as she spent the day creating final memories with her grandchildren in the warmth and sunshine. The day was full of love, laughter, and special moments her family is holding close. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call from 10 AM until the time of mass. There will also be a visitation from 4 to 8 PM on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena. Following the mass, cremation rites will take place.

Annie was born on October 31, 1960, in Chicago, IL, to Reilly and Bertha (Gutierriz) Johnson. Her parents migrated from Cuba to provide their children with a better life and more opportunities. She grew up on the North Side of Chicago and attended Northeastern University in Chicago to pursue a career in teaching. While in college, she worked at a bank and met her future husband, Ed Bochniak. After several months of being “friends” and working together, they were married on June 16, 1984, and spent the next 40 years building a loving family together. Annie was passionate about teaching and dedicated to guiding her students toward a brighter future; education was her life’s work. She taught at various schools in Chicago until she and Ed moved to Galena in June 1999, where they established their roots and became integral members of the Galena community, which they cherished as their home. Her love for her students at River Ridge School was unparalleled, and her determination to positively impact their lives through education was truly a gift from God. Annie will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother (“Nani”), and friend.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Ed; two daughters, Christine (Kyle) Melaas and Emily (Brady Box) Bochniak; a son, Nathan (Nikka) Bochniak; four grandchildren, Clara and Henry Melaas, and Reagan and Riley Bochniak; and a brother, Reilly Johnson Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her in-laws, Joseph and Mary Bochniak.

In tribute to Annie, a woman who devoted her career to education and to enriching the lives of every student who entered her classroom, her family has established the Ann Bochniak Scholarship. In lieu of flowers, donations to the scholarship are encouraged. The funds will be allocated to the River Ridge District #210 Special Education Department, where she taught and cherished every student and faculty member. Donations can be made at First Community Bank of Galena under the Ann Bochniak Scholarship. You may call the bank at 815-777-6300 to donate in your name, or you can stop by in person or mail your contribution to First Community Bank of Galena, attention Marce Doyle, 101 Exchange St., Galena, IL 61036.

Thank you for your love, support, and generosity in helping continue Annie’s passion for education.

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

Edward J. Hoffman

Edward J. (Fast Eddie) Hoffman, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025. To honor Ed’s life, a celebration in his memory will be held at a later date.

He was born July 8,1952 in Dubuque to Robert and LaVonne (Nauman) Hoffman.  Edward loved listening to music especially the Beatles and Johnny Cash, along with attending concerts, he enjoyed watching football, baseball and basketball games. He loved to spend time with his family and was loved by all.

Edward is survived by his children, Michael (Angela) Hoffman and Brian Hoffman; grandson, Vincent Hoffman; siblings Bob Hoffman, John (Sue) Hoffman, Kathy (John) Jeidy, Nancy (Fred Wallace) Tauke, Bill (Julie) Hoffman, Laura (Brian) Barry, Andy Hoffman, Nick (Carol) Hoffman and Mark (Jayne Kotecki) Hoffman, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Sister-in- Law Faye Hoffman and Nephew Christopher Tauke.

Online condolences may be directed to the family at iowacremation.com under Obituaries.

Darla L. Homan

Darla Lou Homan, 84 of Marion, Iowa, formerly of Springbrook passed away on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Terrace Glen Village in Marion. 

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Monday, April 21, 2025 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook.  Visitation will be 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, April 20, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 10:00 am until Mass on Monday at the church.  Burial will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery. 

Darla was born June 22, 1940, the daughter of Ervin and Armella (Clasen) Homan.  When she was three years old, her father was killed in a farming accident.  Her mother married Leroy Scheckel in 1950. 

Darla graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1958 and then attended Nurses Training in Clinton.  Darla was a OR/Recovery Room Nurse retiring in 2002 from Mercy Hospital in Clinton.  She was active in Catholic Daughters, Relay for Life, and volunteering at Mill Valley and Mercy Hospital.  Darla also helped her friend Barb cater many weddings, funerals and special events in retirement until moving to Marion, Iowa in 2017 to be closer to family.  She enjoyed needle work and crossword puzzles in her free time.  As well, she baked many loaves of zucchini and lemon poppy seed bread to share.  Christmas was a special time for her as she displayed several Nativity Scenes and had multiple collections of Wallace tree ornaments.  Darla enjoyed vacationing with her brother and sister in-law and their children and grandchildren and attending Iowa Hawkeye Football games.  She enjoyed time with her family, especially her nieces, who spent many summers with her over the years growing up.

 Survivors include her brother, Dale (Mary Pat) Scheckel; nieces, Nicole (Jose) Lopez, and Erica (Ben) Diehl; great nieces and nephews, Mateo and Miguel Lopez, Nicholas, Bekah, Thomas, Dainel, and Emily Diehl; and many extended relatives. 

Darla was preceded in death by her parents, Ervin Homan, and Armella and Leroy Scheckel.

A memorial fund has been established in Darla’s memory.

 Online condolences may be expressed to her family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com