Obituaries Archive

Lillian B. Trevallee

Lillian Berniece (Opland) Trevallee, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, July 4, 2024, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:00 am Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Berniece will be 10:00 am Thursday, July 11, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Berniece was born August 1, 1927, to Pidle Narrum Opland and Marion Phillips in Mindoro, WI. She married Friend Lyle Trevallee on June 29, 1949, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Galesville, WI. They were married for 69 years.

Berniece was a homemaker until her three children were nearly grown. She then was employed with the Dubuque School District serving the hot lunch program at Fulton Elementary until her retirement. She would later involve herself with her TOPS group, enjoying the friendships she made and their daily walks. Her thoughtful, gentle and loving nature was a gift to all she knew.

She is survived by her three children: Kay Marie ( Kai Gabriel ) Trevallee, Marion, IA, Daniel Pern Trevallee, Ashland, OR, and Friend Steven Trevallee, Seattle, WA. Also 13 of her 17 nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were husband, Friend, siblings and in-laws Eunice Opland Jones, Lyle & Doris Opland, Hazel (Opland) & Fred Larson, and Pern & Rene Opland, and in-laws Charles & Rosalie Trevallee, and Marie (Trevallee) & John Lokken.

Mom truly loved her last nine years at Bethany Home, with the safety and comfort afforded to her, and her dining room friends over those years. We wish to thank all the staff and nurses for their kindness and loving care, plus Hospice of Dubuque in her last days.

Finally we thank John & Teri Hawks Goodmann for their boundless love and care for both Friend and Berniece, as neighbors and executors.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Bethany Home.

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

Evelyn A. Specht

Evelyn A. Specht, 98, of Sherrill, died Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Evelyn will be 10:30 am Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church with Father Michael Schueller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in SS Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.

Evelyn was born November 27, 1925, in Balltown, the daughter of Louis and Barbara Link Cummer. On August 27, 1946, she married John J. Specht at St. Francis Catholic Church in Balltown. He died March 27, 2013.

She was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill. A dedicated homemaker, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her kitchen was a sanctuary where she enjoyed baking, earning her the title of Cookie Nana from many of her beloved grandkids. She nurtured her own garden and canned her harvest. She became renowned for her delicious pickles. She enjoyed playing cards and cherished every opportunity to visit with family and friends.

Survivors include her children, Jack (Carol) Specht of Guttenberg, Shirley (John) Spoerl of Sherrill, Sharon (Gary) Weber of Holy Cross, Jim (Cheryl) Specht of Sageville, Joe (Becky) Specht of Sherrill, Bob Specht of Worthington, and Bill (Ann) Specht of Sherrill; 22 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Bill (Margie) Cummer of Dubuque; and one sister-in-law, Bernie Specht of Davenport, IA.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Gerald; one daughter-in-law, Debbie Specht; and her siblings, Lorene (Arnold) Gansemer, Marie (Donald) Hannan, Marcella (Norbert) Schueller, Dorothy (John) Markham, Myrtle (Victor) Leibfried, Norbert (Laverne “Honey”) Cummer, Lucille (Robert) Brimeyer, Florence (Cyril) Habel, Leon Cummer, and Glen Stoffel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been made for Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home.

Evelyn’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home for their compassionate care and support during her time of need.

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

Gregory T. Huseman

Gregory T. Huseman, age 60, of Dubuque, passed away at 6:53 a.m., on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Harmony Dubuque.  To honor Greg’s life there will be a private family gathering at a later date.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Greg’s family.

Greg was born on November 18, 1963, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Joseph and Agnes “Ig” (Cain) Huseman Sr.

Greg attended Dubuque Senior High School.  He worked as a carpenter in construction for many years and was a member of the Carpenter’s Union.  He married Michelle Link on May 3, 1986, and they had 2 wonderful children together.  Sadly they would later part ways.  In his free time Greg enjoyed swimming, camping, fishing, canoeing and boating.  He loved being outside and on the water.  Greg also had an artistic side and liked to draw, play guitar and listen to music.  He also made delicious homemade pizza crust containing a special secret ingredient which only 1 other person on the planet knows.

Greg is survived by his loving family,

2 children,
Krista (Cody) Walen
and Nathan Huseman, both of Dubuque, IA;

2 grandchildren,
Autumn and Ethan Walen, both of Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Paul Huseman, Roseburg, OR,
Joseph (Sandra) Huseman Jr., Dubuque, IA,
David (Sue) Huseman Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Lynn Kuse, Camdenton, MO,
Dan (Heidi) Huseman Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Russell (Jill) Huseman, Bellevue, IA,
Terry Huseman Sr., Dubuque, IA
and Amy Schmitz, Dubuque, IA;

his former wife,
Shelley Huseman, Dubuque, IA;

and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents; a brother in infancy, Christopher Huseman; a brother-in-law, Mike Kuse; 3 nephews and a niece, David Huseman, William Huseman, Wendall Huseman and Cynthia Huseman.

A special thank you to the staff members at Harmony, MercyOne Dubuque, Hospice of Dubuque, the Dubuque Rescue Mission and the Food Pantry, as well as everyone else who has supported Greg throughout the years.

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

Kelly M. Finn

Kelly M. Finn, 44, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 25, 2024.

Private family services were held.  Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, assisted the family.

Kelly was born on November 2, 1979, in Louisville, Kentucky, the daughter of Linda Brown.  She was employed with Holy Cross Church – Young-Uns DayCare.

Kelly was the most loving woman.  She was always selfless, always putting others first.  If you needed an ear to talk off, she’d give you both of hers.  If you needed a shoulder to lean on, she’d be there no matter what.  Kelly’s love was endless, and her spirit will never fade, just how her love never faded from her heart.  She was always looking out for others and never once saw another way to live.  Love and endless compassion were Kelly’s way of life.  Anyone who got to experience her light was truly blessed.

She is survived by her sons, Trevor Finn, Cameron Ackerman and David Ackerman.

The family would like to thank all those that ever showed her love.

Myron E. Vance

Myron E. “Mike” Vance, 88, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 3rd, 2024, at Regional Medical Center in Manchester, IA. He was surrounded by his loving family in his final days.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 8th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a rosary to be said at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 9th, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery with military honors to be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Mike was born on March 6th, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Myron and Esther (Folsom) Vance. He married Jean Welter on April 21, 1956, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque and together they shared 68 years of marriage.

Mike served in the Iowa Army National Guard and worked for the former Dubuque Packing Company, retiring after 42 years.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church; an avid Chicago Bears fan and he sure loved his sweets especially his butterscotch pies.

Mike and Jean fell in love while spending many Saturdays at Freddy’s Beach/Lake Delhi when dating; so much that they bought their forever summer home in 1967. He enjoyed many years of great times with his family and friends.

He loved his family and spent countless hours attending the grandchildren’s  activities over the years. He enjoyed reading to the grandkids as well as cracking many jokes with them. His sense of humor and amazing smile will be missed.

He is survived by his wife, Jean; their four children; Vicki (Patrick) Leonard, Vivian (Dan) Bannon, Valorie (Kevin) Schmitt, and Patrick (Wendy) Vance.

Fourteen grandchildren: Kristin (Andy) Bertsch, William Leonard, Edward (Emily) Leonard, Lauren (Michael) Peters, Danielle (Andrew) Brachman, Brianna Bannon, Andrew Bannon, Peter (Libbey) Schmitt, Rachel Schmitt, Mitchell (Belle) Schmitt, Greg (Heather) Vance, Whitney (Ben) Lovik, Bailey (fiancé Brock Kruser) Vance, and Macy Vance. Fourteen great grandchildren: Aubrey, Dylan, Kanner and Joseph Bertsch, Delcie and Maxon Leonard, Leon Torres, and Archie Leonard; William, Jacob and Charlotte Brachman; Liam and Eleanor Schmitt; and Gage Vance along with two more great grandchildren on the way. His in-laws Laura Miller, Rita Osterberger and David (Dawn) Welter and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law and mother-in-law Herb and Marguerite Welter; two grandchildren in infancy, Michael Leonard and Molly Schmitt; two great grandchildren Henry Leonard and Patrick Brachman. His special uncle Wayne Folsom; in-laws Jim Miller and Dick Osterberger.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Holy Family Catholic School or the Holy Spirit Rosary Society.

The family wishes to thank Regional Medical Center and Care Initiatives Hospice of Manchester for their compassionate care these last few days; also, to Dr. Ryan Engelman, Dr. Christopher Stille and Dr. Ramanujam and their nurses for their many years of care.

Alice A. Besler

Alice A. Besler, 79, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away, Thursday, July 4, 2024 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Alice will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 7,2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also continue after 9 a.m. on Monday, July 8, 2024, at the funeral home.

Services for Alice will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 8, 2024, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus Presiding and Rev. Chris Podhajsky concelebrating.  Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa.

Alice Ann Boge was born on the family farm northeast of Farley on August 4th of 1944 to Ralph & Jeanette (Naber) Boge. She graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1962. After graduation, she worked for Attorney T.J. Gilloon in Dyersville, IA and later for Great Plains Supply Company in Farley, IA.

On New Year’s Eve, 1964, at the Worthington Memorial Hall, she met the love of her life, Robert A. Besler. They were married at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley on September 17, 1966. They were married for 52 years. Together they had seven children and they farmed on the Besler Century Farm.

Alice was a true country girl. She loved the farm, working alongside her husband, milking cows, raising hogs and she especially loved taking care of her chickens. Alice loved all kinds of music (especially old-time country, polka, waltz and big band) and she loved to sing and dance in her kitchen. She loved to bake and cook for Bob and her family and always enjoyed the holidays having her family join her for the delicious meal she prepared for them. Family meant everything to her. She truly loved Bob with all her heart as well as her children and grandchildren.

Alice was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and the Altar & Rosary Society in Worthington, IA. She was a devout Catholic and she loved to pray the rosary daily.

Alice is survived by six children: Kathryn (Wayne) Decker of Holy Cross, IA; Robert J. (Jodee) Besler of Hopkinton, IA; Janet Hoeger of Manchester, IA; Ronald (Courtney) Besler of Dyersville, IA; Alan (Jill) Besler of Worthington, IA; and Steven (Elle) Besler of Hopkinton, IA; 12 grandchildren: Brian (Taylor) Decker of Ankeny, IA; Becky (Ezra) Lange of Des Moines, IA; Danielle Besler of Farley, IA; Jacob Besler of Worthington, IA; Madelyn and Ellie Hoeger of Manchester, IA; Hanah Besler of Dyersville, IA; and Kaitlyn, Natalie, Addison, Caleb and Lauren Besler of Worthington, IA; three siblings: LouAnn Kozicki and Marilyn (Harry) Bortel both of Green Bay, WI; and Roger (Mary) Boge of Farley, IA; one brother-in-law, Charles Kluesner of Farley, IA; and one sister-in-law, Janice Besler of Dyersville, IA.

She is preceded in death by: her husband, Robert A. Besler on June 15, 2019 and her daughter, Karen M. Besler on January 10, 1969; her parents, Ralph and Jeanette Boge; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edwin and Armella Besler; her sister, Arlene Kluesner; her brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws: Michael Kozicki, Donald Besler, Jerome and Monica Besler, Louis Besler, John and Norma Jean Rave and Joseph and Lila Mae Sperfslage.

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

Jeanette L. Demmer

Jeanette Lois Demmer, 92, of Greeley, IA beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, was called to her heavenly home on July 1. 2024.

Jean was blessed with a long and full life. She was born on May 9, 1932 in Liberty, WI to her loving parents Harold and Agnes (Schumacher) Jacobson. She grew up on a farm in Cashton, WI with her 5 sisters and 3 brothers.  Farming, family and music were the center of their lives.

Jean graduated from Cashton High School. She married Irvin Marx, Sr. on May 9, 1950. Irvin and Jean had  3 sons and 4 daughters.  Irv’s work in the dairy industry led them on adventures through Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Iowa until his death on April 21, 2000.

God said that man should not be alone and joined Loras Demmer and Jean in marriage on June 24, 2005. They have spent the last 19 years enjoying their farm, travels to Texas, their late puppy Paquita, and their many grandchildren and great/great great grandchildren.

Jean was involved with the Federated Women’s Club and American Legion Auxiliary Post 137 in Dyersville, IA. She is known for her kind, loving demeanor, devotion to her family and friends and appreciating the value of a good hair day. Jean never met a jumpsuit she didn’t like and never had a shortage of Certs to share or lipstick blotted papers in her purse.  She enjoyed sister tea parties, playing cards, singing, dancing polka, western movies, music and baking. Everyone cherishes the recipes for her chocolate cake, pumpkin bars, cinnamon rolls and the coveted sugar cookie recipe. Unfortunately, all of us try to emulate these recipes, but they just don’t quite measure up to hers. Must be the love only she could put into them.

Jean is survived by her husband, Loras; her children, Kathleen Marx (wife of Butch Marx) of Dallas, TX; Susan (Ronald) Thole of Dyersville, IA; Judy (Lonnie) Fry of Greeley, IA; Jane Moriarity (Gary Chapman) of Manchester, IA; Jennifer (Kent) Thoe of Ventura, IA; Kevin (Doris) Demmer of Dyersville, IA and Dan Demmer of Fairfax, IA; 19 grandchildren, Michelle (Tony) Sly; Randy (Lisa) Thole; Jason (Danielle) Thole; Cheryl (Mario) Habaue; Jessica (Scott) Bolsinger;  Tami (Eric) Hansel;  Cassie (Jeremy) Rinke; Waylon (Robyn) Fry; Jamie (John) Gronewold; Ryan (Katie) Moriarity; Barry (Julia) Moriarity; Amanda (Drake) Stadtlander; Zachary Thoe; Braden Thoe; Brian (Lisa) Demmer, Heidi (Chris) Smith, Nicole (Ryan)Plummer; Tara (Tyler) Nielsen; Abby (Michael) Ruether; 38 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren and several more on the way; siblings Dee Hansen; Alta (George) Buehl, Gary (Diane) Jacobson; Alan Jacobson; and Diane Koebler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Irvin Marx, Sr., children Joseph; Irvin, Jr. and David;  sisters Pat Willenbring and Avy Widner,  brother David Jacobson and several in laws.

The family would like to thank Dr. Christiansen, Regional Medical Center, Edgewood Convalescent Home, St. Croix Hospice and their personnel.

Friends may call from 2 – 7 p.m. on  Friday, July 12, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, IA.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday July 13, 2024, at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Edgewood, IA with a one-hour visitation at church before mass with burial in the St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, IA.   Rev. John Haugen will officiate.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Betsy J. Heister

Betsy J. “Pat” Heister, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at home.

Betsy Jane DeLarm was born on May 10, 1936 in Calamus, Iowa, to Archie and Laura (Shirley) DeLarm.  She had worked as a Certified Nurses Aide for over 38 years.  Prior to that she had worked for the Fishing Tackle Company for 5 years, Clinton Engines for a year, and Ensign Coil in Cascade for 9 years.

“Pat” loved all children.  She was a selfless person who loved helping others and always put others needs first.

Those left to honor her memory include children, Rodney Heister of Sabula, IA, and Beverly Koontz of Maquoketa, IA; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; brothers, Jerry DeLarm of Maquoketa, IA, and Clifford (Deb) DeLarm of Monmouth, IA; sisters, Linda Eby of Wyoming, IA, and Donna Burroughs of Marion, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, son William Robert Heister, brothers Lavern and Eugene, sisters Betty Etten and Bessie Huffman, and grandchildren Amanda Marie Heister and Kyle Miller.

A private family visitation will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites will be accorded, and a private burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

Gwenith Burk

Gwenith “Marguerite” Burk, 82, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024. Visitation will be from 4 to 7pm, Friday, July 5, at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, July 6, at St Columbkille’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral service can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Marguerite Burk was born on February 8, 1942 to Francis W. and Gwenith (Grant) Blake in Kansas City, Kansas. Marguerite graduated from Bishop Ward High School where she actively participated in theater, dance, and track and was once said to be “the fastest girl in Kansas City”. After high school she was tasked with the challenge of helping to wrangle her four nephews in California, a time she reflected on fondly…mostly.  Marguerite married Larry Burk on December 22, 1964. She supported him through his MBA studies by working at a travel agency and together they moved all over the country for Larry’s career, finally settling in Dubuque, IA where together they raised four children.

As her kids got older, Marguerite invested in her love of antiques, and enjoyed attending auctions to find pieces, refinishing and reselling her finds.  She was also an avid card player and enjoyed her decades-long bridge club, where she developed lifelong friendships, which she cherished.

Marguerite’s quiet strength and love for her family will always be remembered. She was most proud of her title of mother and grandmother. She always went above and beyond for her kids, volunteering to run activities, chaperone field trips and handmade chocolate treats for Valentine’s Day.  She loved spending time with her family, playing competitive games of Acquire, beating her grandkids in Euchre, showing off her dance moves, and an occasional trip to the casino.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her husband Larry, parents Francis and Gwenith Blake, and two brothers, Bud and Jim Blake, and brother-in-law John Colteaux.

Left to remember Marguerite are her children: Jason (Nancy) Burk, Goodland, KS, Genevieve (Erik) Sogge, San Jose, CA, Ryan (Nellie) Burk, Peosta, IA and Nathan (Jessica) Burk, Los Angeles, CA; her 9 grandchildren, Ethan, Simon, Henry and Luke Burk, Olin and Thomas Sogge and Caden, Conner and Allie Burk; her sister Genevieve Colteaux of California, sisters-in-laws Lee Blake and Peg Blake, and many nieces and nephews.

JoAnn Oftedahl

JoAnn Oftedahl, 68, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, surrounded by her family.

According to her wishes, there will be no services. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, is entrusted with arrangements.

JoAnn was born July 30, 1955, in Slayton, MN, the daughter of Edward and Sarah Gieselman.  JoAnn met her soulmate and love of her life; Philip Oftedahl, in high school, and they married on October 20, 1973 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Minnesota.

JoAnn was a devoted wife, and her greatest dream in life was to be a mother. JoAnn and Philip welcomed their three children, and she made homemaking her passion, cooking, baking, and sewing her kids clothes and Halloween costumes. She was delighted when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, and she loved helping to raise all of them. JoAnn was always up for an adventure, and she made many wonderful memories on family trips, especially Maui.

JoAnn is survived by her beloved husband, Philip Oftedahl; three children, Mark (Melissa) Oftedahl, Ryan (Abby) Oftedahl, and Mindy Wiley; her grandchildren, Alex, Cole, and Kayla Oftedahl, Colton Wiley, and Emma Oftedahl; two great-grandchildren, Jaasella and Aaveiya; her mother, Sarah Gieselman; two sisters, Lorie (Brian) Roux, and Janet Anderson; her sister in law, Rachel Mirghavamedin; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Gieselman, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Johnny and Donna Oftedahl; and an unborn grandchild.

JoAnn’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque; especially her nurse Casey, whose care and compassion helped us navigate this tremendous loss.

William R. Reynolds

William R. Reynolds, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 2:20 p.m. on July 1, 2024, at home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 7th, 2024, and after 9:00 a.m. on Monday at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.  A wake service will be held at 12:45p.m. on Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday July 8th, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West with Msgr Thomas Toale officiating.  The burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

William was born July 6, 1939, in Potosi, WI, the son of Lawrence and Lucille (Hauk) Reynolds.  He graduated from Cassville, WI High School.  He was united in marriage to Mary Virginia Donovan on May 14, 1960, at St. Joseph Church Key West.  He was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works; he retired in 1995 after 30 years.

He served in the Navy on the aircraft carrier USS Wasp from 1963 to 1965.  He was a member of UAW 94.  He enjoyed getting together with family, hunting, fishing and spending time at his property in Wisconsin.

He is survived by his wife; son David (Sue) Reynolds; daughters Jane (Scott) Schauer and Connie Reynolds; grandchildren Scott, Eric (Brecklyn) and Ali Reynolds, Jonathan Sutter, Britney Reynolds; step-grandchildren Justin (Katie) and Jason (Kelsie) Schauer and Jaimie (Daniel) Stark; grandson-in-law Tim Berning; great-granddaughter Harper Berning; brothers Jim (Sharon), Joe (Melanie), Jerry (Theresa), Ronnie (Patti) Reynolds; sister Helen (Ron) Udelhofen; sisters-in-law June (Don) Grass, Dorothy Mueller, Carol Reimer; brother-in-law Ron (Pat) Donovan.

William was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law Vincent and Mary (Schuster) Donovan, brothers Jack (Linda) and Bob Reynolds and granddaughter Rachel Berning.

A William R. Reynolds memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kim, Kevin and Peggy for their care and concern for Bill.

Marilyn C. Paulsen

Marilyn C. Paulsen, 91, of DeWitt, Iowa, and formerly of Delmar, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Fieldstone of DeWitt.

Marilyn Carol Kinrade was born on June 28, 1933 in Clinton, Iowa, to Leonard Quinlan and Alice Theresa (Lane) Kinrade.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1951 graduate of Maquoketa High School.   She married Allen Lee Paulsen on November 16, 1952 at the United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Five children were born to this union, Joy, Steve, Jill, David, and Ron.

Marilyn was a mother and farmwife who farmed with her husband on the family farm east of Elwood until retirement.

Marilyn was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, and the Polka Club of Iowa.  She was an accomplished area seamstress who enjoyed sewing, quilting, and dancing.

Those left to honor her memory include children, Joy Sheeley of Moscow, IA, Steve (Brenda) Paulsen of Delmar, IA, Jill (Matt) Goodman of Spragueville, IA, Dave (Tammi) Paulsen of Lisbon, IA, and Ron (Joyce) Paulsen of Elwood, IA; 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren brother, Bill Kinrade of Ames, IA; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandra Kinrade of Maquoketa, IA, Onalee Keeney of Maquoketa, IA, Carolyn Dennis of Lakeland, FL, and Gene Ulvestad of Ames, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Allen Lee Paulsen on February 17, 2023, siblings James “Jim” Kinrade and Doris Ulvestad, daughter-in-law Jeanne Paulsen, son-in-law Kent Sheeley, and a great-granddaughter Katherine Frett.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 12:45 P.M at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be at a later date at the Lost Nation, IA Cemetery.

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

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

James L. Breeden

James L. “Jim” Breeden, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, July 1, 2024, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

James Loras Breeden was born on April 16, 1936 in rural Maquoketa, Iowa to Jay and Ruth (Littlefield) Breeden.  He attended country school and then graduated from Maquoketa High School.  He married Sara Ann Clark on September 16, 1955 in Fulton, Iowa at the RLDS Church.

Jim worked as a farmhand for local farmers as well as owning his own farm later in life.  Throughout the years he had also worked as a carpenter, dairy deliveryman, and various factory jobs including at Alcoa and Clinton Engines.  Jim and Sara had also delivered the Sunday Quad City Times for over 15 years.

Jim enjoyed history, nature, gardening, planting trees, farming, and researching cemeteries involved with the Jackson County Pioneer Cemetery Association.   

Those left to honor his memory include children, Wayne Breeden of Clinton, IA, Sue Imming of Jefferson City, MO, Vickie (Bob) Anstey of Cumberland, IA, Diane (Jerry) Sneed of New Orleans, LA, and Shirley (Brad) Schmidt of Thornton, IA; a brother, Bob (Brenda) Breeden of Maquoketa, IA; 10 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sara on August 9, 2018, and a son John Loras Breeden on September 23, 1989.

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

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

Margaret C. Larson

Margaret C. Larson, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 12:02 p.m. on June 29th, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christin Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 12th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Family Cemetery.

Margaret was born on April 13, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Michael and Julia (Donovan) McClain and graduated from St. Joseph Academy.  She married Earl Larson on August 26, 1953, and he preceded her in death on July 2, 2020.  She worked at Sears until 1998 and then worked for Carpet One Carpet Shack and officially retired in 2016. Margaret was a cancer survivor and a member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church and a DAR Member.

She enjoyed reading and listening to the sound of rain. Margaret was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an incredibly strong woman; spending time with her family gave her much joy. She loved to cook for her family during all the holidays and she made sure that all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren each had a gift at Christmas.

She is survived by her children and their families:

Michele (Dan) Hoefer and their children, Sarah (Nick) Nelson with son Bohde, Michael (Liz) Hoefer with children Lauren, Makayla and Claire, Tony (Alina) Hoefer and their daughter Hazel, and Peter Hoefer and children Rayne, Zaiden and Silas.

Rebecca (Bruce) Cleland and their children, Kathryn (Nils Schongalla) Cleland, Emily Cleland and Ellen (Matthew Dragon) Cleland.

Christine (Mark) Asbury and their children Adam (Rachel) Asbury with children Aiden, James, William and Christopher, and Carla (Michael) Cloos with children Katherine, Alyssa and Nathan.

Nathan (fiancé Katherine Labarbera and her son Eugene) Larson and children Rachel Larson with children Ariavne and Ainsley, Hannah (Kyle) Harper with Charlie and Cameron, Joseph (Kelly) Larson and Madisyn, Julia (Scott Singer) Larson and Jacob (Morgan) Larson.

Jennifer Larson and son Levi French.

In-laws Jean McClain, Rosie McClain, and Bev Larson along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Mike and Julia McClain; father and mother-in-law Otto and Marguerite Larson; siblings: Earl (Phyllis) McClain, Delores (John) Pake, Grace McClain, Louis McClain, Ralph McClain, Marian (Bob) Dayton, Marie (Louis) Timp, Jean (Edward) Allen, Philip McClain

In lieu of flowers a Margaret Larson memorial fund will be established.

Mark J. McDonald

Mark J. McDonald, 54, of Dubuque, lost his battle with cancer on Monday, July 1, 2024, at the Harmony Care Facility Dubuque surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, July 8, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mark will be at 12:30 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

Mark was born January 15, 1970, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Jim and Gladys (Leibfried) McDonald. He attended Holy Trinity Grade School and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1988.

Mark worked at FDL in security and later at the Mystic Casino, now known as the Q Casino, in maintenance. He also cleaned at Capri College for many years.

Mark had a kind soul, he would talk to everyone, and had a quirky sense of humor. Facebook will be a lot less busy due to his passing, some of you may even miss his weather reports. In his younger years, he spent countless hours at Uncle Tom’s farm where he became an avid KDTH-AM radio listener. Mark also enjoyed watching reruns of old TV shows and movies and was a die-hard Chicago Bears fan.

Survivors include his mother, Gladys McDonald of Dubuque; four siblings, Kelly Mussehl of Dubuque; Carey (Larry) Schilling of Epworth, IA; Jay (Jean) McDonald of Dubuque; and Todd (Tara) McDonald of Dubuque; nine nieces and nephews, Erin (Shaun) Cavanaugh, Dillon (Catie) Hefel, Amy (Dan) Schroeder, Tyler Mussehl, Mallory (Chris Clewell), Molly, Kaity (Brandon Lewis), Meghan McDonald; and Hailey Schilling; five very special great-nieces and great-nephews; and a long-time friend, Robin Wright and her son, Nolan.

Mark was preceded in death by his dad, Jim and brother-in-law, Ron Mussehl.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Harmony Care Facility and Hospice of Dubuque for their great care given to Mark.

In lieu of plants and flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Holy Family Schools.