Obituaries Archive

James M. Splinter

James M. Splinter, age 62, of Mound, Minnesota, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away January 22, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with brain cancer.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday January 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a sharing time to be held at 6:30 p.m.

Jim was born on February 26, 1962, in Sageville, Iowa, Jim grew up learning the value of “work hard, play hard” with his many siblings and friends in the local gardens, farms and bars. He graduated Cum Laude from Loras College in Dubuque, IA, in 1984 with his bachelor’s degree in business. He also completed the University of Minnesota School of Management Executive Program in 2002. His prolific business career began at FDL Foods (Dubuque Packing Company) and culminated in 36 years at Hormel Foods. His strategic, visionary mindset created many unique branding and marketing innovation successes for the company. As his numerous mentees and collaborators can attest to, his love of sharing his knowledge and experience to help others grow was unparalleled. To those who know, continue to…“Please Handle.”

His profound spirit of giving back will live on in all those whose lives he touched. He supported many noble causes including the YMCA, Austin Community Rec Center, Hormel Institute, Project SPAMMY, University of St. Thomas, Dougherty Family College, United Way, and Mayo Clinic.

Jim’s greatest success by far was his family and life-long friendships. He loved spending time and making memories with them all on the lake, on the mountain, at MN Twins games, at IA Hawkeyes games, cheering on his 49ers, playing Euchre or just bullsh*tting and drinking a Busch Light. His singing and dance moves were legendary.

He was so incredibly proud of “his girls” – wife Vicki, daughters Averi and Haley, and granddaughters Arya and Baby Meschke. To express his pride and love to them and to his siblings, he wrote his memoir A Love Letter to My Family in 2022. He is so loved and already dearly missed. Let us not be sad his time with us is over, but instead happy it happened.

Survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Vicki (Habel) Splinter; daughters Averi (Kyle) Hoen and Haley (Tim) Meschke; granddaughters Arya Hoen and Baby Meschke; sister Renee (Mike) Meyer; brothers Tom (Janice) Splinter and John (Mary Jo) Splinter; brother-in-law Tony (Kerry) Habel; sister-in-law Kim Habel; stepmother Beth Splinter; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his loving parents Paul and Joyce (Kies) Splinter, brothers Ralph and Ted Splinter, stepfather Ken Splinter, in-laws Bill and Mary (Green) Habel, and sister-in-law Kelly (Habel) Trumm.

Special thanks to the many doctors and staff at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, for their unwavering dedication and support. If you are so moved, please consider donating in Jim’s name to ongoing cancer research. Until a cure is found, may we all continue fighting.

Delores T. Koppes

God looked around his garden and he found an empty place. He then looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face.  Delores T. Koppes, 87, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 23, 2025, at her son Dale’s home in Dyersville, surrounded by family.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Saturday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 1, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Delores was born November 28, 1937, in Petersburg, Iowa, on the family farm, daughter of John and Geneiveve “Jenny” (Kramer) Putz.  Her parents wanted her to attend the country school on the four corners not far from home. Thanks to her grandpa, she attended the Catholic School in Petersburg. Her grandpa drove her to school every morning in a Model T. She graduated from the eighth grade and then worked on the family farm. On October 5, 1960, at the age of 22, she married Lawrence Koppes at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg and together had 6 children. They separated years later.

Delores was a stay at home mom until she started working in 1976. She started her career at Curran Hydraulics in Dyersville, Nobles in Farley, and Ertl Toy Company for 19 years in Dyersville, and Cascade Die Mold in Monticello for 11 years. She was 75 years young when she retired. Delores worked Third Shift and then came home to watch her granddaughters. Her pride was her home and her acre yard that she push-mowed as recent as two years ago. She loved the sunshine and warm weather. She also had a green thumb and loved to take care of her many house plants. She enjoyed quilting and canning her produce for several years as well. She loved to play cards and the many card games with her granddaughters. She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.

Survivors include her children: Diane (Dan Recker) Koppes of Luxemburg, Dan Koppes of Cascade, Alan Koppes of Antioch, IL, Dale Koppes of Dyersville, Joyce (Allen) Polfer of Farley, Cathy Koppes of Dubuque, granddaughter: Nicole (Nick George) Polfer of Hiawatha, step-grandson, Allen (Amy) Polfer of Robins; step-great-grandchildren: Cora, Silas, Thomas; sisters: Doris (Henry) Kruse, Helen (Tom) Koopmann, Rita (Jim) Steffensmeier; brothers: Lawrence, Donald (Rosie) Putz; and a sister-in-law: Carol Putz.

She was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter, Kaitlyn Ann Polfer on April 13, 2015; and a brother, Joseph Putz.

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

Rita M. Hansen

Rita M. (Kirchberg) Hansen, 84, of Bellevue, passed on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.  Private family services and burial in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Phyllis M. Matthews

Phyllis Mary (Herrig) Matthews, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa joined her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ peacefully on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday January 26, 2025 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Phyllis’ twin brother George Herrig officiating.

Phyllis was born November 6th, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Mary (Heinz) & Leander Herrig, whom had nine children in total.

She attended the Visitation Catholic High School in Dubuque until they closed their doors, and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Immediately following high school, she attended Rock Island Nursing School and graduated with her Registered Nursing Degree in 1973.

She started out as an Operating Room Nurse at Mercy, and eventually her kind and gentle spirit led her to find her home in Pediatric Nursing. As her own family continued to grow, she decided to transition into her most fulfilling role in life: stay-at-home mother and wife.

Phyllis met Cary Matthews, the love of her life, in the early 70’s while hitchhiking. They were married March 3rd, 1974, and built a beautiful life together for over 50 years. Phyllis &  Cary have five children and four grandchildren.

The Matthews home was always filled with love, laughter, and was a safe haven and second home to many friends of the Matthews’ children. Phyllis had a gift for knowing  when others needed her and gave without measure in any way she could. Her home was  your home, her food was your food, and so on. She was a fierce prayer warrior who always  held a judgement free ear to listen and offer comfort.

While on her earthly journey, Phyllis struggled with Rheumatoid Arthritis for many  years. Her illness came with unimaginable pain and struggles, but she never complained.  She trusted God to heal her and lead her to the best care available. Through prayer and  faith, she found holistic medicine which played a huge role in her healing and pain  management journey combined with western medicine.

Surviving loved ones include her husband, Cary, children Zachary (Abby Kok),  Isaiah (Sara Fry-Matthews), Rebekah (Seth Walters), Ruth, and Aaron, four grandchildren Ezra, Rowa, Luna, and Juniper, siblings Ann (Dave) Greiling, Paul (Paula)  Herrig, George (Susan) Herrig, Thomas Herrig, Michele (Bud) Raynak, Mary Jean Herrig, and Carol (Dan) Waddick.

She was preceded in death by her parents Mary (Heinz) and Leander Herrig, brother John Lee Herrig, sister-in-law Dolly Wood-Herrig, father in-law Harry Matthews, his wife Joan  Matthews, mother-in-law Mary Lou Klaus, and her husband Joe Klaus, and brother-in-law Paul Dean.

The Matthews family would like to express their immense gratitude to the Nursing  Staff and Surgeons at Mercy, Dr. Sara Loetscher, Cindy and Marie of Kobush Chiropractic,  The Wittman and Breitbach families who all played a large roll in her health care journey  and end of life care. We would also like to thank the Herrig family and countless friends  who have come together to assist with all arrangements and care for Phyllis over the years.

Margaret Kieffer

Reunited and it feels so good!

Margaret “Maggie” Kieffer (Grimes), 97, of Dubuque, Iowa died peacefully at home on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025. She was finally able to rejoin her parents Leroy & Margaret Grimes (Genz), her sisters Virginia “Ginny” Grimes and Elizabeth (Mony) Vega, and her brothers Rev. Ray Grimes, Wally (Grace) Grimes, and Donald (Lu) Grimes.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday January 31, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, at the church, with Rev. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Maggie was born on October 14, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of LeRoy and Margaret (Genz) Grimes. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in 1946 and soon after started working for A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing where she remained for 50(!) years before retiring in 1996 to care for Ginny.

She leaves behind (for now) her son Raymond Kieffer, daughter-in-law Brenda Schilling, and many nieces and nephews. She has entrusted Ray to watch over her sketch books, Barbies of the World collection, Fun Machine organ. and multiple scrapbooks dedicated to film star Alice Faye. He promises to cherish them always, along with all the lessons, memories, stories, and unwavering love she passed on.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Maggie’s name.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelli, Nichole, Morgan and Laura, along with her longtime Doctor, Honorio Caceres. We’d also like to thank St. Joseph’s, Key West Parish, especially Cindy and Fr. Martin Obeng. We are forever grateful for all your help and support.

Goodnight Mom, I love you, and I’ll meet you and Ginny by the fountain at the designated time.

Virginia M. Juran

Virginia M. Juran, 87, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Harmony in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross. Funeral Mass will commence at 2 p.m. with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will offiiate.

Virginia was born on April 20, 1937, daughter of Leonard and Frances (Hayes) Clemen. She graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1955. On August 27, 1957 she married William Juran at the Holy Cross Church. She was a member of Holy Cross Parish and a member of the Rosary Society. Virginia worked as a waitress for a few local restaurants and housekeeping at Mercy Hospital in Dyersville where she retired. She was a dedicated wife and mother. She enjoyed reading and going to flea markets.

Virginia is survived by three children, Deb (Dennis) Schmitt of Sherrill, Chris (Diane) Juran of Guttenberg, and Steve (Tammy) Juran of Asbury; seven grandchildren, Becky (Austin) Lawler, Rob (Katie) Schmitt, Justin (Stacy) Schmitt, Megan (Josh) Martin, Nick (Bre) Juran, Ben (Maddy Rooney) Juran, and Rachel Juran; eleven great-grandchildren, Cayden, Grace, Brody, Abby, Lucy, Allie, Jaelyn, Wyatt, Briggs, Mya, and Livia and one due in July; and three step-great-grandchildren: Cooper, Conner, and Carter; her siblings, Kathleen Trenkamp, Edward Clemen, MaDonna (John) Weimerskirch, and Roger (Janie) Clemen; and sisters-in-law, LaVonne Clemen and Mary Clemen.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 2016; her parents Leonard and Frances Clemen; brothers, Leon, Ambrose, and Cletus; brothers-in-law, Al Trenkamp and Lee Wedewer; and sisters-in-law Rosie Clemen and Grace Clemen.

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

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Lester Jennings

L.A. (Lester) Jennings, 82, of rural Peosta, died Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at First Baptist Church.

The Funeral Service for L.A. will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at First Baptist Church with Pastor Timothy Bees officiating. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, Farley, IA at a later date.

L.A. was born on May 10, 1942, in Maryville, MO, the son of Ambrose and Lucille (Evans) Jennings. On April 22, 1967, he married Barbara Barker in Dubuque. L.A. graduated from the University of Kansas with his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. “Go Jayhawks!” He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works from 1965 until 2007.

L.A. was a very devoted and involved member of First Baptist Church in Dubuque. He enjoyed his hobby farm, and was proud of his registered black angus herd he raised. L.A. loved gardening and spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He was extremely proud of them and they brought him supreme enjoyment.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Jennings of Peosta; four children, Lon (Bridget) Jennings of Southlake, TX; Rebecca (Frank) Clements of Nicollet, MN; Elizabeth (Geoff) Johnson of Orono, MN; and Todd (Valerie) Jennings of Ramsey, MN; ten grandchildren, Luke (Larissa) Jennings, Marc (Jenny) Jennings, Jessica (Noah) Owens, Katherine Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Annemarie Johnson, Ashley Johnson, Hailey Rittenbach,  Carson Rittenbach, and Arin (Nathan) Lecnar; four great-grandchildren, Morgan Mettler, Paige (Garrett) Eilander, Gregorey Mettler, and Elena Jennings; two great-great-grandchildren, Elannah and Lena Eilander; one brother, Larry  (Barbara Jones) Jennings; one sister, Martha Litke; two brothers-in-law, James (Nancy) Barker and David Buss.

L.A. was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Garnet Jennings; brother-in-law, Robert Litke; and sister-in-law, Frances Buss.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First Baptist Church or Hospice of Dubuque.

L.A.’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to Buffy of Hospice of Dubuque, their First Baptist Church family, and their other friends and neighbors.

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 L.A.’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Richard W. Haigh

Richard “Dick” Wayne Haigh, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday January 27, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Sharing Time will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by Military Honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Richard was born on September 23, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Fieldon & Dorothy (Hines) Haigh. Dick lived in an era of time where kids went out and played with the neighborhood kids and didn’t come home until the streetlights came on. Parents didn’t have to worry about their safety. What a wonderful childhood! Dick honorably served his country in the United States Army from February of 1966 to January of 1968. He was stationed overseas in Germany during this time. He married the love of his life, Patricia Kirsch, on December 28, 1968, in Dubuque. It was love at first sight, and it has been history ever since. Dick was a member of the Bowling League, and he enjoyed playing baseball.

Dick is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pat, daughter Debra (Robert) O’Connell, son Rich Haigh, grandson Logan O’Connell, and sister Joyce Morgan of Cedar Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his parents Fieldon and Dorothy, brothers Robert and Al Haigh, and sister Jean Wilke.

The family would like to thank Dr. Hermann & staff, Dr. Kelly & staff, and the staff of UnityPoint Finley Hospital’s 5th floor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their loving care for Dick.

Helen K. Keeney

Helen Kay Keeney, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Helen Kay Ewing was born on February 21, 1940 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Ivan and Verna (Jensen) Ewing.  She was a graduate of Elwood High School.  Her early life was marked by her marriage to James Keeney in May of 1962. Their union was blessed with three sons: Brian, Brent, and Brad, who brought immense joy to her life. Helen’s dedication to her family was evident in every aspect of her life, and she instilled in her children the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.

Helen’s professional life was as rich and varied as her personal interests. She began her career at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa before dedicating 40 years of service as the secretary and bookkeeper for Mitchell-Maskrey Feed, also in Maquoketa, where she is well-known to this day as “The Sucker Lady”, for giving out tootsie pops to every child that would come in. In addition to her primary job, Helen took on various side roles, including working as a waitress at several local establishments including Michel’s Truck Stop, Maquoketa Country Club, Noby’s Restaurant, and Jack-N-Jill Grocery Store, and running the concession stand at the Maquoketa Baseball City Park for over 25 years.

Her involvement in the community extended to her membership at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Helen loved spending time with her grandchildren, enjoyed doing word search puzzles, and despite her modesty, she was known to have a lucky streak at the casino, often winning, as it was well-known she never had much fondness for gambling!

Helen’s legacy is carried on by her three sons, Brian Keeney of Maquoketa, IA, Brent Keeney of Atlanta, GA, and Brad (April) Keeney of Bettendorf, IA; her longtime companion, Jim Ihrig of Baldwin, IA; her cherished grandchildren, Meagan (Chance) Garza, Amanda (Andy) Stefanik, Jeordon (Robert) Tempel, and Niklas Keeney; and her adored great-grandchildren, Wrangler, Rubi, Graham, Mia, and Jackson; her siblings, Jim (Pat) Peterman of Maquoketa, IA, Ruth Boock of Fulton, IL, Mary Van De Pol of Ankeny, IA, and Judy (Dave) Koon of Maquoketa, IA; in-laws, Nancee Peterman of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Jean Ewing of Oxford Junction, IA, and Jerry Zybarth of DeWitt, IA. Helen’s life was also enriched by the presence of many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter-in-law Pam Keeney, her brothers Paul Peterman, Raymond Ewing, Larry Ewing, and her sister Veronica Zybarth.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Helen’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.  A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Helen Kay Keeney memorial fund has been established.

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

Wylie K. Bledsoe

Wylie K. Bledsoe, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 19, 2025, at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque surrounded by his loving family.  To honor and celebrate Wylie’s life, a reception will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, 3800 Arboretum Drive in Dubuque.  There will also be a memorial service held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Faith Lutheran Church, 55 Prairie Road, Fond du Lac, WI, with Pastor David Haugly officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in the common areas for lunch and celebration of Wylie’s life from 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.  Burial will be in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Newburg, WI, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Wylie’s family.

Wylie was born on October 14, 1943, in Mena, AK, a son to William Burl and Nellie Lee (McCravens) Bledsoe.  He was a kind and genuine man who loved his family and valued his friends.  He was united in marriage to his first wife, Phyllis J. Noster, and the two were blessed with many wonderful years together and four children of their own to love and nurture until she was sadly called home ahead of him in 1997.  Thankfully, Wylie found love again and was joined in marriage to Martha “Jean” Laubach.  They were truly grateful to spend the last 23 years together facing the world hand in hand and enjoying the benefits of their hard work and efforts while surrounding themselves with loved ones whenever possible.

Wylie possessed a strong work ethic and faithfully invested over 43 years with the Mercury Marine Company in Fond du Lac until he eventually retired in 2005.  He had begun in the earliest years of the company and made it to a supervisory position before he retired.  Wylie made sure to make the most of his free-time throughout his entire life and when he wasn’t focused on his family, a relaxing afternoon on the golf course was always a good option.  He also enjoyed deer hunting, boating, fishing, and watching Nascar and various sports.  Before retirement, truth be told, if the season was nice and the roads were ready, he and his best friend, Pete, would pack up their Goldwing’s and hit the open road for their next adventure.  It was no small accomplishment to have reached all 50 states over the years, but with smiles on their faces and unrelenting determination in their hearts, the task was earnestly completed and stored securely in their memory banks for the rest of their lives.

Wylie also found real joy volunteering with fellow members of the Dubuque Noon Lions Club and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.  He was honored to sit on the Board of Directors at the Arboretum and served as Vice President over the years.  Wylie spent countless hours at the Arboretum tending to the facilities and assisting in more ways than we could even begin to name.  He made many friends along the way, shared his tinkering skills more often than not, and absolutely found his second wind when this chapter opened in his later years.  It’s difficult to imagine moving forward without Wylie’s fun and loving spirit walking among us.  The world has sadly lost one of the good one’s today along with an excellent role model of how a loving husband, father and grandfather should operate in an almost effortless manner.  Thank you, Wylie, for all of the love, life and wisdom you have so generously shared throughout your 81 years among us and may the Lord now hold you safe in His loving and grace-filled arms until we all meet again.     

Those left to cherish the memory of Wylie include: his loving wife, Martha “Jean” Bledsoe, Dubuque, IA; his adored children, Sam (Rosy) Bledsoe, Fond du Lac, WI, Nelda (Stan) Bartlett, Glenbeulah, WI, Joel Bledsoe, Sun Prairie, WI, Cory Bledsoe, North Fond du Lac, WI, and Andrew (Amy) Lubben, Fond du Lac, WI; his grandchildren, Joshua (Hope) Bledsoe, Stephanie Bledsoe, Samuel (Ivy) Bledsoe, Kassandra Nitschke, Phillip Bledsoe, Lucy Bledsoe, Lincoln Bledsoe, Kaitlyn Rost, Anna Bledsoe, Jenna (Damien) Bledsoe, and Maxwell Lubben; his seven great-grandchildren; his siblings, Linda Miller, Wiggins, CO, and Chuck (Linda) Bledsoe, West Bend, WI; his sisters-in-law, Mary (Wayne) Skartvedt, Redcliffe, IA, and Sue (Mike) VanMaaren, Ames, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Wylie was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Phyllis J. Bledsoe; his siblings, Ruby Lee Arendt, Jewel Flores, Brenda Barnekow, James Bledsoe, Willie Bledsoe, Billie Jean McGinnis; his sister-in-law, Sandra Anzia; and his brother-in-law, Bruce Laubach. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wylie’s name to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, or the Dubuque Noon Lions Club.

Wylie’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital and Ennoble Manor in Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Dorothy P. Cotant

Dorothy P. Cotant, 95, of Dubuque died Sunday, January 19, 2025, at her home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Dubuque, with Rev. David Ambrosy presiding.  Visitation will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.  Burial will be in the St. Joseph’s Chapel Mausoleum, Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, of Dubuque, is assisting the family.

Dorothy was born on September 2, 1929, in Waucoma, daughter of William and Bertha (Drilling) Myers.  Dorothy was united in marriage to James Cotant on September 21, 1950, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque.

Dorothy graduated from St. Mary’s School and Waucoma High School.  She worked at Breakstone Butter Company for 15 years.  In retirement, she spent quality time with her grandchildren biking on Heritage Trail and hosted many family birthday celebrations.  Dorothy’s hobbies included sewing, gardening, reading, and puzzles.  She also enjoyed several trips to Florida over the years.

Survivors include her three daughters: Doris (Mike) Kintzle of Dubuque, Barbara (Ronald) Then of Placid, and Judy (Bernie) Welter of Dubuque; seven grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren; three sisters: Magdalen Wieling of New Hampton, Dee Myers, BVM of Dubuque, and Elaine Hill of Peru, IL; brother-in-law Paul Kress of Dubuque; and sister-in-law Alice Myers of Cresco.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, parents, siblings: Esther Myers, Mary DeSloover, Betty Sieverding, Frances Kress, Marilyn Hoffmann, Leonard Myers, and Albert Myers; brothers-in-law: Bernard DeSloover, Tony Sieverding, Carl Hoffmann, and Ralph Wieling; and sister-in-law Marlene Myers.

Barbara Schroeder

Barbara “Barb” Schroeder, 87, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Barbara will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Barb was born on January 19, 1938, in Portage, WI, the daughter of William O. and Anna M. (Vesley) Amend.

Barb entered the religious life as a Sister of The Divine Savior in Milwaukee, WI where she taught at numerous schools throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota. She came to Dubuque in 1973, where she met Gary Schroeder, they were united in marriage on August 7, 1976. She taught at Jefferson Junior High School from 1973 until her retirement in 2000.

Barb was a faithful member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, attending daily mass, as well as being involved with various committees with the church. She was a member of the Serra Club, DARSPA, Catholic Daughters of America, Delta Kappa Gamma, and she was a statistician for the Iowa Police Combat League. Barb loved traveling, especially going on mission trips to Haiti, the Holy Land, and Ireland. Barb also enjoyed baking, going to the casino to play the slot machines, and playing bingo.

Survivors include her husband, Gary Schroeder of Dubuque; and two children, Sgt. 1st Class (Ret.) William (Angie) Schroeder of Live Oak, TX; and Heather Schroeder of Dubuque; sister-in-law, Patti Amend of Tucson, AZ; numerous nieces and nephews; and very good friends, Patricia “Pat” Friedman and Karen Michels.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings and in-laws, Kenneth (Iris) Amend, Bernard (Jane) Amend, Anna Mary (Dr. Fred) Tice, Reginia (Rube) Arndt, Cecilia Coyle, Aileen (Oscar) Pynnonen, Norbert (Casey) Amend, Rita (Ken) Bescup, John Amend, and Larry (Martha) Amend; and mother- and father-in-law, Merlyn and Jean Schroeder.

The family requests, please no plants or flowers instead, a memorial has been established in Barb’s name.

Barb’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Stonehill memory care unit, especially, techs, Rachel and Felicia; her social worker, Rachel, Hospice of Dubuque, especially, social worker, Michelle and nurse, Andrew. As well as, Assisi memory care, especially, Hannah and Lisa.

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

Jerome N. Trenkamp

Jerome N. Trenkamp, 90, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 10 – 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home with a private burial after services.

Jerome was born on March 6, 1934, in Manchester, IA, son of Bernard and Rita (Gaul) Trenkamp.  He married Bernice Fortmann on August 23, 1961, in Dyersville, Iowa. Together they took pride in farming just west of Dyersville and the fruits of their labor. Jerome met a lot of people and had many conversations over the years while selling sweet corn in the Pay Less parking lot and farmers markets. Jerome and Bernice enjoyed being godparents, dancing and traveling together.

Survivors include his nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Bernice in 2009, parents, parents-in-law, Alvin and Eleanor Fortmann, and a sister, Rosie (Gene) Kroeger in 2023 and 1997; in-laws: LaVern Fortmann, Louis Oberfoell and a niece, Mary Weber.

The family of Jerome would like to thank the staff at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville for their amazing, wonderful, and tremendous care of Jerome. They simply cannot thank the staff enough and believe that it takes very special people to be able to work in that career.

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

Janann Higgins

Janann (Nan) Dietz Higgins, our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on Monday, January 20th, 2025, in Dubuque, IA.

Born on November 5th, 1936, to Alfred and Helen (Nellie) Dietz, Nan lived a vibrant and fulfilling life. She graced this world with her presence for 88 years, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, kindness, and adventure.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM. on Friday, January 24th, at Resurrection Catholic Church in Dubuque, where all who loved her can gather to honor her remarkable life. Visitation will be held prior at the church from 9:00-10:45 AM.

Nan was raised on the family farm in Asbury, Iowa, where she learned to drive a tractor and developed her master gardening skills, growing beautiful flower gardens at all her homes and the homes of her grandchildren.

Nan was educated at Lore Mound, a one-room schoolhouse, then graduated from St. Columbkille High School in 1954.

She had a strong faith and was a member of Resurrection Church for over 60 years.

Nan married Charles R. (Chuck) Higgins on July 30, 1955, at St. Philomena’s Church in Asbury. Together, the dynamic duo lived a partnership rooted in love, commitment, and unwavering support. They welcomed three daughters – Deb, Diann, and Darla.

In addition to her dedication to family, Nan’s life was enhanced by remarkable achievements and community involvement. Nan and Chuck undertook an amazing 47-day, 3,400-mile TransAmerica Bicycle Trek from Seattle, Washington, to Atlantic City, New Jersey, in 1988. They also embraced their passion for biking through annual participation on RAGBRAI, often organizing the entire neighborhood to join the event. They rode their bikes throughout the Midwest for many years with the GBC group and were instrumental in the development of the Heritage Trail.

Nan developed the original Ski Wee program at Sundown and was also a ski instructor with the Sundown Ski School, where she and Chuck taught all of their grandchildren and hundreds of other kids to ski.

A passionate runner, Nan completed 26 marathons, including the prestigious Boston Marathon. She was an active participant in the MVRA, frequently coming in first place because she was the only one in the age category.

A game enthusiast, Nan enjoyed playing euchre, bridge, and cribbage, often hosting family and friends for evenings filled with laughter and competition.

Nan held employment positions with the U.S. Postal Service and Dupaco Community Credit Union, where she served as the Prime Time Club Coordinator and shared her joy of traveling with others. Her signature afghans crocheted on every trip were enjoyed by many. Nan built a Shaklee business in the Dubuque area, sharing her lifestyle of health and wellness.

Nan was known for her inclusivity and welcoming personality. She received the YWCA Women of Achievement Award for her contributions to sports and her promotion of the Heritage Trail. She was presented the State of Iowa Governor’s Volunteer Award for outstanding service to the state by Gov. Branstad in 1996.

In retirement, Nan and Chuck resided in Palm Bay, Florida, where they welcomed family and friends and developed many treasured friendships.

Nan is survived by her husband, Chuck Higgins; her daughters, Deb (Jim) Mueller and Diann (Bob) Hanson; her grandchildren, Abby (Scott) Klein, Holly (Patrick) Burkhartzmeyer, Ryan (Cynthia) Hanson, and Hillary (Stefen) Loes; and her great-grandchildren, Addison, Ava, Aubrey, Maxwell, Zachary, Connor, Baby B, Nellie, and Grant. She is also survived by her sister, Karen Schaufler; and numerous beloved relatives, nieces, nephews, godchildren, and cherished friends.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Darla Higgins; parents, Alfred and Helen Dietz; and her sisters Helen Gorshe, Marlene Schrobilgen, Shirley Massey, Ady Klein-Taggart, and Moya Breitbach.

Nan will be remembered not only for her accomplishments but for her radiant spirit, her love of life, her vibrance, and her ability to see beauty in the world. Her thoughtfulness and kindness touched the hearts of many, and her legacy will live on in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her. We will see her in every colorful flower, beautiful sunrise, and laughter during a card game.

Thank you to the staff of Stonehill Care Center for their wonderful care of Nan.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in honor of Nan at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

“It was a good ride.”

Kenneth L. Houston

Kenneth L. “Kenny” Houston, a cherished father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025, at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa, at the age of 73. Born on August 26, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa, Kenny was the son of the late Donald Houston and Lela Jane (Carr) Miller and stepson to the late Raymond Miller.

Kenny attended Maquoketa schools and served his country in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1973, where he earned an honorable discharge for his dedicated service. Upon returning to civilian life, Kenny found love and married Sheryl Lea Hoist on July 17, 1977, in Monmouth, Iowa. Their union was blessed with a son, Jason, who became the pride and joy of Kenny’s life.  Kenny and Sherry later divorced, and he never remarried.

Throughout his career, Kenny worked as an electrical lineman for the IBEW Union #145 out of Rock Island and held various positions at Purina in Clinton, LE Meyers, and several construction companies.

Kenny had been a member of the Baldwin-Monmouth AMVETS Post #64.  He was an avid New York Yankees fan, enjoyed watching basketball especially Caitlin Clark, and NFL Football, with the Minnesota Vikings holding a special place in his heart. He also found joy in traveling with his son, Jason, and the thrill of time spent at casinos. At home, Kenny was a devoted caretaker to his beloved cats.

Those left to honor his memory include a son, Jason Houston of Cedar Rapids, IA; half-siblings, Sandy Christoffersen of Monmouth, IA, Michael Miller of Maquoketa, IA, and Pete Houston of Hale, IA; nieces and nephew, Christy (Brian) Schmidt of Andrew, IA, Tammy Steffen of Dubuque, IA, and Brian Houston of Des Moines, IA; and several great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and his stepfather Raymond Miller.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Kenny’s life will be held from 3 to 6 P.M., Friday, January 24, 2025, in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation has taken place, and a private family burial will be held at a later date at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kenneth L. “Kenny” Houston memorial fund has been established.

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