Obituaries Archive

Mark A. Waechter

Mark A. Waechter, age 60, of Dubuque, passed away at 9:16 a.m., on Monday, June 17, 2024, at his home.  To honor Mark’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home 1491 Main Street is assisting Mark’s family.

Mark was born on August 30, 1963, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Daniel and Norma Lee (Oneyear) Waechter.

Mark attended Dubuque Senior High School and after graduation worked as a window cleaner with Key City Window Cleaning.  He married Misty Schultz in 1995, but they would decide to go their separate ways in 2003.  In his free time Mark enjoyed listening to music and watching football and wrestling.  He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye, Chicago Cubs and Minnesota Vikings fan.  He enjoyed relaxing in general and watching his favorite TV shows.  Mark walked everywhere and was well known around the downtown area.  He will be missed.

Those left to cherish Mark’s memory include

his children,
Crystal Waechter
and Clay Waechter, both of Dubuque, IA;

3 siblings,
Lynn (Don) Feller, Texas,
Chris Birch Sr., Dubuque, IA
and Harold (Debra) Birch, Dubuque, IA;

his former wife,
Misty (Jason) Adams, Dubuque, IA;

his best friend,
Tom Ritt, Dubuque, IA;

and his beloved cat, Tanner.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents; a niece, Amanda Birch; and a nephew, Andy Birch.

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

Caroline A. O’Brien

Caroline A. O’Brien, age 90, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:06 a.m., on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center.  To honor Caroline’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.

Caroline was born on April 21, 1934, in Balltown, Iowa, the daughter of Leon and Claretta (Brimeyer) Breitbach.  

Caroline attended school in Balltown and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  After school, she married John O’Brien on February 13, 1954, in Dubuque.  Sadly, he preceded Caroline in death on December 31, 1987.  Caroline was a devoted full time wife, mom and homemaker for several years.  Once the children were older she went to work at The Dodge House Motel, The Julien Hotel and lastly with Holy Family Hall until her well earned retirement 2006.  She was a devout Catholic and long time member of Holy Ghost Church.  In her free time Caroline enjoyed walking, shopping, going out to eat and trying her luck at the casino.  She liked to do word search puzzles, sip a nice hot cup of coffee, watch game and talk shows and listen to country music.  Her family was extremely important to Caroline and she loved spending time with everyone.  She was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Caroline’s memory include: her children, Peggy Maroney, Dubuque, IA, Debbie (Howard) Sincox, Apple River, IL and Michael (fiancé Karen) O’Brien, Monticello, IL; 5 grandchildren, Ashley (Tim) Gellings, Ankeny, IA,

Samuel Sincox, Indianapolis, IN, Daly O’Brien, Chicago, IL, Grace O’Brien, Monticello, IL, and Garett O’Brien, Monticello, IL; a great-grandchild, Cameron Gellings, Ankeny, IA; 3 sisters and 3 brothers.

Caroline was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John O’Brien; a son-in-law, Michael J. Maroney; and 5 sisters and 3 brothers.

Caroline’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided for Caroline these past few weeks.

Greeting cards and memorials in Caroline’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Caroline O’Brien Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.come past few weeks.

Robert T. Donner

Robert (Bob) T. Donner, 75, of Dubuque passed away June 16, 2024, at home after a courageous battle of cancer with his family by his side.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00p.m., Thursday, June 20, 2024, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00a.m., Friday, June 21, 2024, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 6 of Dubuque and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Bob was born on October 29, 1948, to Irwin (Doc) and Lucille (Reilly) Donner in Dubuque, IA. He graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1966. Bob worked for the Dubuque Packing Company for thirty plus years, and later worked for AY McDonald, until retirement in 2012. He was a member of the Dubuque American Legion Post 6 and was in the Military Reserves. Bob was an avid fisherman, hunter, and longtime member of Pheasants Forever. He also loved gardening and tending to his flowers. Bob was an active member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral and served as a Eucharistic minister for many years. Family was one of the most important parts of his life. He would attend as much as he could for his grandchildren and support them at all events. Bob was very devoted to his mother over the years and loved her dearly. In his free time, he enjoyed cheering on the NY Yankees, Indiana Hoosiers, Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers.

Bob is survived by his children, Robert (Laura) Donner of Dubuque, Tara Bellman of Waukee, IA, and Amy Donner of Johnston, IA; grandchildren, Mason, Bella, Ben, Kile, Grace, and Preston. He is also survived by his siblings, Bill (Jan) Donner of Rhinelander, WI, and Linda Sidney of Apple Valley, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents Irwin (Doc) & Lucille Donner.

Robert’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris, for the compassionate care given to him these last several months. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

A Robert Donner Memorial Fund has been established.

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

John G. Rettenmaier

John G. Rettenmaier, 91, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for John will be 11:00 am Friday, June 21, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Jeff Frieden as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

John was born March 13, 1933, in Dubuque, the son of John J. and Marie (Zollioffer) Rettenmaier. On June 6, 1953, he married Marcia R. Bainbridge at St. Mary Catholic Church in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on May 6, 2011.

John was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving from 1953 until 1955.

John was the owner of Rettenmaier Flooring in Dubuque, founding it in 1959, and worked with his kids until he was 88 years old.

John was a member of the Dubuque American Legion and Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. He was an avid football fan and enjoyed his daily lunches at the Dubuque Eagles Club. He and Marcia loved to go gambling and travel.

Survivors include seven children, Terry (Deb) Rettenmaier of Stockton, CA; Karen (Daniel) Breitbach of Maquoketa, IA; Steve (Rita) Rettenmaier of Dubuque; Craig (Janet) Rettenmaier of Dubuque; Linda Atkinson of Dubuque; Joan (Kevin Brandel) Lindsay of Durango, IA; and Mark Rettenmaier of Dubuque; 25 grandchildren; 23 great grandchildren; one brother, George J. (Vynnette) Rettenmaier of San Antonio, TX; sisters-in-law, Sandy Busch of Dubuque; and Mary Ann Bainbridge of Lancaster, WI; and brothers-in-law, Bob (Sharon) Bainbridge of Independence, IA; and Gary (Peg) Bainbridge of MN.

Besides his parents and wife, John was preceded in death by a son, Randy “Rabbit” Rettenmaier, a son-in-law Herb Lindsay; one sister, Joan Kahle; brothers-in-law, Lyle, Wayne, and David; and sisters-in-law, Marilyn Langas and Darlene Bally.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque and Hawkeye Care Center for their compassion and care.

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

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

Melvin T. Digman

Melvin T. “Butch” Digman, 83., of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.  A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the Hilton Garden Inn Banquet Room & Patio located at 1801 Greyhound Park Road, Dubuque, IA  52001

Local arrangements are entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Butch was born December 7, 1940, in Dubuque, the son of Melvin A. and Lucille (Welu) Digman.  He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  He married Karen Kueter on July 27, 1963.  Butch retired from John Deere Works Dubuque after 31 years, while also working at the Dubuque Packing House for many years.  He enjoyed hunting, working on projects, fishing, playing cards, coaching in the Independent League, and spending time with family.

Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Karen; children, Lisa Digman, John (Jeann) Digman, Tom (Lori) Digman, Joe Digman, and Scott Digman; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; siblings, Tim (Georgia) Digman, Michael (Mickey) Digman, and Linda (Roger) Ehrler; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Butch was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Jack Digman; and his father and mother in-law, Richard and Eileen Kueter.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home 100 N. 6th Street Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Melvin “Butch” Digman Family.

Online condolences may be expressed at hachmannfuneralhome.com

Katherine A. Egan

Katherine Ann Egan, 71, of Dubuque, died Monday, June 17, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:15 am until 10:15 am on Friday, June 21, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Katherine will be at 10:30 am on Friday, June 21, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Kathy was born on August 9, 1952 in Dubuque the daughter of Glenn and Maxine Egan. She enjoyed needlepoint and crocheting, playing bingo and crafts at Stonehill.

Survivors are two brothers, John (Mary Kay) Egan and James (Barb) Egan both of Dubuque; one sister Mary (Vern) Winker of Blue Mounds, WI; nieces and nephews.

We would like to thank the staff of Stonehill Care Center and also Hospice of Dubuque for the excellent care and support to Kathy and her family.

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

Ronald D. Streif

Ronald D. Streif, 71, of Dubuque passed away May 28, 2024, at Unity Point Finley Dubuque surrounded by his loving family after fighting a 2-year courageous battle with cancer that he approached with strength and a smile.

Visitation will be held Tuesday June 4, 2024, from 9:00am-1:00pm at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd, with a funeral service at 1:00pm. Deacon David Roth will be officiating. Entombment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Ron was born April 5, 1953, in Dubuque to Eldon and Helen (Ritt) Streif. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.

He married Diane Kelleher on August 26, 1979, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque. He worked as a Machinist for John Deere Dubuque Works, retiring after 37 years.

Ron was a member of UAW Local 94, he was an avid Cubs, Bears, and Hawkeye fan. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, antiquing, traveling with family and friends and his jigsaw puzzles.

He was known as a “Jokester” and “Swiper” to those who knew him well. He enjoyed his “Blue Dolphin” aka water.

Ron was survived by his loving wife Diane of 45 years; their children Lisa Wickham, Jamey Streif, Jeff (Kristina) Streif, and Lynsey Streif; grandchildren Carleigh, Blake, Brayden, Drake, Ava, Eben and bonus grandchildren Bela, and Lila; siblings Dennis (Tina), Rick (Jill); siblings-in-law Barb Streif, Linda (Bob) Meyer, Jim (Kathy) Kelleher, Tom (Kathy) Kelleher, Debbie (Gary) Nadermann, Mark (Robin) Kelleher, Jeff (Karissa) Kelleher, Jennifer (Brad) Swearingen and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, father and mother-in-law Jim and Helen Kelleher, grandparents, brother Randy and Lynsey’s fiancée Brian Tschiggfrie.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the Dr.’s and staff of the Wendt Regional Cancer Center, Finley ICU, Dr. Schreiber, and Dr. Powers for their compassionate care of Ron.

Robert J. Behrens

Robert J. “Bo” Behrens, 83, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024 at Luther Manor Care Center in Dubuque.  No Public Services will be conducted per Bo’s wishes. Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Robert was born, July 17, 1940, the son of Frank and Alma (Clausen) Behrens.  He graduated from Preston High School in 1958 and then started working for the Pontiac Dealership in Preston.  Robert married Shirley Smith on May 28, 1960 at the Methodist Church in Maquoketa.  He then worked for 26 years at Preston Schools as a custodian until retiring.  Robert was an avid basketball and sports fan.  He was a silver smith, enjoyed fishing, hunting, tending to Purple Martens in his yard, carpentry work, and spending time with family and friends.  Robert enjoyed many years of going to football games with his brothers, and he and Shirley enjoyed many winters together in Arizona with family.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Shirley; daughters, Karry Banowetz, and Lorie (Mike) Ward; 7 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Richard (Carol) Behrens.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Robin Mary Vernon;  great-grandchild, Linkon Jeffrey Doolittle; a son in-law, Lloyd Banowetz; and siblings, Mary Lou Williams, and Edwin (Lavonne) Behrens.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Robert Behrens Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

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

John Reitz

John “Louie” Reitz, 67, of Galena, IL passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Mercy One, Dubuque, IA, with his sisters at his side. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

John was born September 4, 1956, in Hazel Green, WI, the son of Louis and Louise (Hoyer) Reitz. He attended Galena schools and served in the US Army, stationed in Germany, between 1974 and 1975. John enjoyed going to the casino, playing euchre, and stopping at Mulgrew’s in East Dubuque for chili dogs. He worked at Lemfco Foundry, Galena until his retirement.

John is survived by three sisters, Kay (Richard Miller) Temperly of Galena, Lynn (Lee) Foecking of Highland Beach, FI, and Bette (Curtis) Spensley of Geneseo, IL, a brother-in-law, Eric Einsweiler, many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Shirley Einsweiler, and brother-in-law, Gary Temperly.

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

Robert C. Knopp

Robert C. “Bob” Knopp, 92, of Dubuque, died Saturday, June 15, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Bob will be 10:00 am Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Robert was born July 6, 1931, in Dubuque, the son of Oliver Eldon and Irene (Hess) Knopp. On March 31, 1951, he married Joanne Cox in Dubuque, Iowa. She passed away on February 24, 1997.

He was a graduate of Loras Academy and Mercy Hospital X-Ray School.

Bob was director of Radiology at Medical Associates for fifty years. He also took newborn photos at the former Xavier Hospital.

He was a member of the St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church and an active participant in various community organizations. His professional dedication was shown through his involvement with the Iowa Society of Radiology, where he served as President for one year. A passionate boater from an early age, he shared his love for the water through his leadership as Commodore of the Julien Dubuque Yacht Club. He was also a member of the Dubuque County I-Club, where he served on the board.  Mostly he cherished his family and friends.

Survivors include four daughters, Lynn Benigno of Raymond, IA, Dianne (Michael) Budig of Salt Lake City, UT, Cathy (Tom) Vaassen and Shelly (Mark) Wittry, both of Dubuque; one son, Tony (Rhonda) Knopp of Dubuque; nine grandchildren, Anthony, Kathryn, Michelle, Lindsey, Erica, Gretchen, Ben, Tyler, and Leah; 18 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; one brother-in-law, Terry “Corky” Cox of Minneapolis, MN; and one uncle, John Hess of Cedar Rapids, IA.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, his parents- in-law, Don and Katie Cox, and one grandson, Nick Martin

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Moore at Medical Associates and Hospice of Dubuque for caring for Bob, and Father Brian Dellaert for his spiritual guidance and support.

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

James M. McLaughlin

James M. “Mac” McLaughlin, 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday morning, June 14, 2024.

Mac was born on February 10, 1947 in Potosi, Wisconsin.  He grew up in Potosi and graduated from Potosi High School in 1965. Shortly thereafter, Uncle Sam called his name, and he served his country in the U.S. Army, from which he received an honorable discharge. On October 28, 1972, he married the love of his life, Victoria Walsh, in Tennyson, Wisconsin. Together, they built a life filled with love and laughter, welcoming three wonderful children into the world.

After his military service, Mac returned to his roots and worked at the Potosi Brewing Company. He later joined the family business, Walsh’s Ace Hardware, where he became a well-known and respected figure in the community. His work ethic and friendly demeanor made him not just a colleague but a friend to those he worked with.

Mac’s life was rich with involvement and hobbies. He was a proud member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether and had been an active member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa. His love for the outdoors was evident to all; he found peace and happiness in fishing, boating, and hunting. Whether he was watercressing in the streams, seeking out the best spots for mushroom hunting, or dancing the night away, Mac embraced life with enthusiasm.

Those left to honor Mac’s memory include his beloved wife, Victoria McLaughlin of Maquoketa, Iowa; his children, Misty (Doug) Biehl, D.J. (Amber) McLaughlin, and Casey (Samantha) McLaughlin, all of Maquoketa, Iowa; his sister, Carol Ann (Dale) Hood of Platteville, Wisconsin; his adored grandchildren, Macklyn, Kam, and Ryker; 2 step-grandchildren, Johnny (Erin) Biehl, and Lexie Biehl; and a step-great-grandchild, Jackson Biehl.  Mac was preceded in death by his mother, Jeanette McLaughlin, and a grandchild, Kendall Moore.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating “Mac’s” life will be held from 3 to 6 P.M. on Friday, June 28, 2024, at the Timber Center in Maquoketa.  A private graveside service and burial with military rites will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in “Mac’s” name to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

John L. Williams

John L. Williams, 91, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, June 7, 2024.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, 2024 at the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.

John was born on October 9, 1932 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Fred and Christine (Schroeder) Williams. He was united in marriage to Carole C. Loso on April 25, 1959. She preceded him in death on October 18, 1993.

John was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving during the Korean Conflict. He was formerly employed at Farley & Loetscher Mfg. Co., the Dubuque Packing Company and FDL Foods. Following his retirement, he was an all-around handyman.

John was a former member of the East Dubuque Drum & Bugle Corps and the East Dubuque Lions Club. He also was a bartender at several East Dubuque establishments. John enjoyed going to auctions.

Surviving is his son, Aaron; two grandchildren, Emily and Noah his special friend, Sherry Foht; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Christine, his wife, Carole, his son, Jeffrey S., and his siblings, Dorothy, Ruthie, Jerry, Betty and Shirley.

The family wishes to thank our best neighbors, Julie and the late Ted Burgmeier, Dr. Chris Stille, Dr. Carter at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, and the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and compassion.

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

Michael J. Onken

Michael J. Onken, age 54, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday June 6th, 2024 at Unity Point Finley Hospital surrounded by his beloved family. Mike was born in Dubuque, IA on March 19th, 1970 to John and Ursula Onken.

After graduating in 1988 from Dubuque Senior High School, he completed two years at University of Dubuque before entering the workforce, where he met his soulmate, Jennifer L. Fishler. Excited to start their life together, Mike and Jennifer married on October 4th, 1997. Shortly after, they started a family together, and Mike’s two children meant the world to him.

Prior to becoming disabled with MS in 2009, Mike was an avid runner and bowler. His best score was an 816 game, which he was very proud of. Mike was also a huge Elvis fan, proud German, and animal lover. He especially adored his multiple cats and dogs he raised throughout his life.

Despite his disability, Mike carried on as a loving husband and father. He was able to give pointers on his son, Ryan, bowling games. He also recently watched his daughter, Mikayla, graduate with her Masters Degree on live stream.

Mike was welcomed into eternal life by his mother Ursula (Eucken), maternal grandparents Martin and Tinchen Eucken, and paternal grandparents Johann and Rieke Onken. Mike has several cherished pets waiting to greet him at the Rainbow Bridge as well.

Mike is survived by his wife Jennifer, daughter Mikayla, son Ryan, father, John, brother Robert and family, and his current pets.

Mike’s family would like to express their sincerest gratitude to their friends/supporters, Finley ICU staff, Dr. El-Hattab, Dr. B. Powers, Dr. Salas, and Dr. Whalen.

Mike will always be remembered for his witty, infectious sense of humor. Mike will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Mike’s Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 23rd, from 1-4pm at Eagle Point Park (North Veranda Pavillion).

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, is serving the family.

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

Albert L. Neyen

Albert L. “Butch” Neyen, 84 of Bankston, Iowa passed away Wednesday June 12, 2024 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 4 – 8 p.m. on Monday June 17, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue from 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday June 18, 2024 at St. Clement Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by Scherrman-Peterson American Legion Post 656.  Rev. Michael Schueller will officiate.

Albert was born on February 13, 1940 in Graf, Iowa, the son of Peter Albert and Philomena (Graf) Neyen.  He attended St. Clement’s school in Bankston, IA and started work at the Dubuque packing company after he got out of school. He was a member of the Iowa National Guard for 6 years and received the ranking of Staff Sergeant E6. He later began a full time career at the home farm with his uncle William Graf and brother, Gary Neyen, which was known as South Lane Farm.

Albert’s true love was farming; he spent countless hours in the field driving tractors and tending to crops and livestock.  When he wasn’t farming, he loved going to tractor pulls and watching his nephew “Fritz” pull. He enjoyed going to cow shows and was especially proud of their registered guernsey herd and the many awards they gathered throughout the years, including those won at the Iowa State Fair and World Dairy Expo. Outside of farming, Butch had many fond memories of the times he spent hunting with uncle Bill, his nephews, friends, and neighbor kids and as well as learning and sharing the history of the Bankston and Graf areas of Iowa that he was proud to call home.

Survivors include his sister, Duanne Pins, a sister-in-law, Donna Neyen-Shea, and many nieces and nephews including 3 special nieces; Wanda (Randy) Knapp of Epworth; their children, Austin (Jenna) Knapp of Epworth, a special great, great niece, Mackenzie Knapp, Landen (friend Angela Fangman) Knapp of New Vienna; Wendy (Joe) Kruse of Dyersville; their children, Audrey and Ashlyn Kruse; Lynne Wingert of Bankston; her children, Logan (friend Amanda Goedken) Wingert, and Aiden Wingert.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers: William, Robert, and Gary Neyen; 3 sisters: Shirley Ahmann, Carol Neyen, and Beverly Drees.

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.

Eugene Butler

Eugene “Gary” Butler, 72, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024.  A private committal service with military rites will be held with a memorial service being held at a later date.

Gary was born September 21, 1951 in Long Beach, CA, son of Eugene C. and Marie Butler.

Graduated from San Pedro High School in 1969.

Married Julie Berndt June 21, 1980 in Dubuque.

Gary served in the United States Marine Corps during the Viet Nam War.

He was a bus driver for Long Beach Transit for 20 years, retiring in 2000.  In 2001 he moved to Dubuque where he lived for the past 21 years.

He was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

Gary is survived by his wife Julie Butler of Dubuque; two daughters, Dawn (Jarrod) Flemming of Dubuque and their children, Kadence and Rhayne, and Veronica (Michael) Woodruff of Dubuque; a brother, Mike (Lisa) Butler of San Pedro, CA; step mother, Edith Butler of Hanford, CA; a sister, Jeananne of San Pedro, CA and another sister, Debbie (Frank), of CA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his father in law, Robert Berndt and a brother, Richard Butler.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.