Obituaries Archive

Thomas J. Carroll

Thomas “Tom” Joseph Carroll, 79 of Dubuque, IA died on February 7, 2026. His obituary was previously published. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at Happy’s Place, Dubuque from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm with sharing at 2:00 pm. Casual attire.

Mary Ann Hansen

Mary Ann Hansen, 90, of Asbury, IA passed away peacefully on Tuesday,  May 26, 2026 at Grand Meadows in Asbury, IA.

Private family services were held at the Church of the Resurrection on Friday, May 29, 2026.  Burial was at Resurrection Cemetery.  Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Mary Ann was born on April 3, 1936, the youngest of 8 children, of Clarence and Ida (Ehrlich) Bahl.  She attended a one-room schoolhouse in Asbury and then went on to graduate from the Academy of the Visitation in Dubuque.  Mary Ann met her “dance partner in life”, John Hansen, at the Melody Mill Dance Hall and the two were married on September 18, 1954 at St. Philomena’s Church in Asbury.  The couple moved to Laurel, MD while John served in the Army before returning to Asbury to raise their family.

Mary Ann worked outside of the home for several years as a secretary.  First, in a civilian capacity at Ft Meade, MD Army Base and then later at Hempstead High School in the Activities Office; however, her favorite work and greatest joy was caring for her family and home.  She especially cherished time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mary Ann also enjoyed baking, canning, gardening, and playing cards.  Her homemade lemon meringue pie and chocolate layer cake were her signature desserts and family favorites.  It was apparent from the flowers she grew and the clothes she wore that she never met a shade of pink she didn’t like.  Together, she and John took pride in designing and maintaining their meticulously landscaped yard. Mary Ann was handy with a needle and thread, spending countless hours on her sewing machine mending, tailoring, making outfits as well as decorative pillows and window treatments for their home.  She played the piano beautifully, although few people knew it because she rarely played in front of others. Her penmanship was exquisite – a lost art in today’s world.  Mary Ann’s Catholic faith was also an integral part of her life.  As a lifelong member of the Church of the Resurrection, she participated in and supported many charitable causes throughout the years.  Mary Ann attended mass regularly and said the rosary daily, always praying for others. She was a kind and giving person in her own quiet, gentle and unassuming way. 

Mary Ann was deeply loved by her family and will be fondly remembered for her gracious spirit and warm, beautiful smile.  She is survived by her husband of 71 years, John; children, Steve Hansen, Lynne (Kevin) Hennings, Dawn (Chuck) Andracchio and JoAnn (Tom) Goodman; grandchildren, Kate Hansen and Ashley Hennings; great grandchildren, Brianna, Polly, Brooklyn, Hayden and Becca; and a sister-in-law, Shirley Bahl. She is reunited in Heaven with her parents; grandson, Austin Hennings; daughter-in-law, Diane Hansen; and siblings, Dorothy (Lester) Camfield, Margery (Joe) Temple, Robert (Wilma) Bahl, Daniel (Ruby) Bahl, James (Mary) Bahl, Philip (Bess) Bahl, and David Bahl.

A Mary Ann Hansen Memorial Fund has been established and will be given to charities close to her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent care of Mary Ann.  Your compassion and kindness will never be forgotten.

Betty Jo Pierce Frambach

Betty Jo (Jody) Pierce Frambach, age 83, died on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Luther Manor on Hillcrest in Dubuque, IA. Jody was born on November 18, 1942, to Robert and Ruby (Raines) Pierce in Talbott, TN. She moved with her family to Medina County, OH in 1955 and graduated from Medina Buckeye High School in 1960. In 1962, she married Elwin Frambach in Medina county, Ohio. They later divorced. Jody worked for many years in office administration for Mazzella Wire & Rope in Cleveland, OH. In 1981, she moved to Charlotte, NC, where she worked for Sandoz, later Clariant Corporation, until her retirement in 2002. In August of 2023, she moved to Dubuque, IA, into the community at Luther Manor on Hillcrest.

Jody loved quilting and made a special quilt for each of her grandchildren. Earlier in life, Jody loved to take her boys, Nathan and Steven, on road trips to visit family and friends. In these latter years, she enjoyed car rides with Nathan and Diane in the greater Dubuque area, especially to Lock & Dam #11 on the Mississippi river and out in the country in search of old barns. And she did, indeed, love the color purple and all things caramel! Jody loved kids, and her grandchildren and great-grandson were her pride and joy.

She is survived by her sons, Nathan (Diane) of Dubuque, IA and Steven of Charlotte, NC; grandchildren Garrett Frambach (Jamila Shing-Hon) of Madison, WI, Andres Frambach (Kayla Lende) of Lakeland, MN, Kennis Frambach, Lennon Frambach, and Nyla Frambach, all of Charlotte, NC; great-grandson Kairo Frambach of Charlotte, NC; sisters Jessie Aldridge of Morristown, TN and Vickie Fulton of Spencer, OH, sister-in-law Betty Pierce of Charlotte, NC, and one niece and two nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Ruby Pierce, her brother Bob Pierce, her sister Clara Pierce Roach, one niece and several brothers-in-law.

As per her wishes, cremation has been accorded. The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Westside Chapel Funeral Home in Morristown, TN. A private committal service will follow at Martha Sunderland Cemetery in Hamblen County, TN.

The family wishes to thank the residents of Luther Manor Apartments and the staff in the Memory Care Unit at Luther Manor Hillcrest and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness, compassion, and care, and Pastor Karla Wildberger and the community at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Asbury, IA for bringing Jody so much joy. We will be forever grateful.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper funeral home is assisting the family here in Dubuque. Memorials in Jody’s name may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque (hospiceofdubuque.org) or to the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org) or to the funeral home.

Dorothy A. Norton

Dorothy A. Norton, 78, of Monticello, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Monticello Nursing and Rehab with her loved ones by her side.

Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2026, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Monticello, Iowa. Funeral Services will commence at 11 a.m. with inurnment to follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello. Rev. David Raemisch will officiate.

Dorothy was born on April 22, 1948, daughter of Henry and Minnie (Dirks) Harms. She married Bill Norton on December 16, 1967.

Dorothy worked at the Monticello Nursing Home in the laundry department for several years, which she took great pride in. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially her grandchildren. She would always make time to attend her children’s and grandchildren activities, school events, and sporting events.

Survivors include her children: Marsha (Kent) Martinsen, Shane (Tara) Norton, Rita (Josh) Schmit, Billy (Mandy) Norton, all of Monticello; three grandchildren she raised: Bobbie Jo (Perry), Tommy (Alisha), Zachary; along with 11 additional grandchildren: Alicia (Derek), Denise, Koree, Reece (Natalie), Jordan (Ryker), Madison (Dustin), Taye, Kenna, Addalynn, Riley, Addison; 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Ruth Bowers; sisters-in-law: Judy Harms, Sharon Harms, Sandra Brunscheen, Linda Norton; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill in 2015; parents, parents-in-law; siblings: JoAnn Yousse, Byrdena Boysen, Louie Harms, Galen Harms; in-laws: Dale Yousse, Steve Norton, Denny Norton, Donnie Norton, Bob Brunscheen, Lou Ann Norton, Carol Norton; and a great-grandson, Kasey O’Brien.

The family would like to thank staff of Monticello Nursing & Rehab and Above & Beyond Hospice for their compassionate care.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Guy G. Kenniker Jr.

Guy Gene Kenniker Jr., 74, of Dubuque, died peacefully Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at home.

There will be no visitation or services.

Guy was born September 4, 1951, in Dubuque, the son of Guy Gene and Doris Elizabeth Schoenthal Kenniker.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1969 and proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force.

Before retiring, Guy worked as a self-employed painter for over 40 years. He was a devoted Chicago Bears fan who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and traveling.

Survivors include his loving friend, Mary Elizabeth Miller of Dubuque; one son, Cody Kenniker of Green Bay, WI; one daughter, Whitney Kenniker of Clinton, IA; Mary’s two sons, Steven (Kim) Robinson of Dickeyville, WI, and Alan (Kristina) Miller of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Amber (Dave) Roche, Matthew (Lauren) Langel, Christine Langel, Kadance Cooley, Spencer Cooley, Gavyn Cooley, and Lucy Miller; four great-grandchildren, Kinley, Everette, Weston, and Willow; one niece, Natalie Renier-Bertolucci of California; and his best friend, Danny.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Kim Renier.

The family extends a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care and support, as well as to his family, friends, and neighbors for their kindness and support throughout this time.

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

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

Phyllis A. Bensen

Phyllis A. Bensen, age 85, of Galena, IL, completed her earthly journey on May 24, 2026, at home peacefully with loved ones near and holding her son’s hand.  To honor Phyllis’ life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Phyllis’ family.

Phyllis was born on January 24, 1941, in Mt. Carmel, IL, a daughter to William Marrow and Betty “Joan” (Maxfield) Fearheiley.  She was a hardworking and fiercely independent single mother who took great pride in raising her children while always providing a nice home and security in their lives.  She was quite social in her early years, but eventually found the peace and serenity of staying home and enjoying a little Frank Sinatra, or her favorite classic movies and shows as they appeared.

Phyllis was blessed with a flair and talent for artistry and always enjoying experimenting with new techniques for drawing and painting.  She found great joy in decorating her home as well so that all who entered felt welcomed and comfortable the minute they arrived.  In her free-time, the birds and animals outside were always top of mind.  She enjoyed feeding them almost as much as the hours spent watching revel in her kindnesses.  Phyllis possessed a heart of gold, and God’s creation outside was never found to be in second place when she was at the helm.  Phyllis made many friends throughout her life, many which lasted throughout, and we find some amount of peace today knowing that she has now been reunited with those who were called home ahead of her once again.  We will miss Phyllis’ strong spirit, straight-forward approach and gentle touch when required and thankfully will be able to lean into the abundance of beautiful memories, lessons and love she leaves behind today until we see her again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Phyllis include,

her two children,
Gerald “Jerry” DeVries, Galena, IL,
and Terri (Solomon) DeVries, Wildwood, IL;

along with her sister,
Karen (Wayne) Hutchings, Galena, IL.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents.

Phyllis’ family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

David L. Bailey

David “Dave” L. Bailey, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly of San Diego, California, passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2026.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Dave was born on March 22, 1955, in Maryland, the son of Donald and Nancy (Pennabaker) Bailey. Dave received his B.S. in Computer Science; to say he was smart is an understatement. He retired from Abbott Medical Laboratories as a Senior Systems Analyst. On August 19, 1989, Dave married the love of his life and his soulmate, Margo Andersen. Together they shared 37 years of love, support, and adventure.

Dave loved to spend time outside and enjoyed being in nature. On a nice summer’s day, he could be found working in his garden with his trusted dog, Bailey, watching over him. Friends and family were thankful to reap the benefits of his gardening and kindness, whether it was a wave across the yard or fresh produce. For weeks at a time, Dave, Margo and Bailey would travel across the country in their motor home. He enjoyed bird watching, especially at their “Bailey Bird Bistro.” His favorite camping spot was at Grant River Recreation Center in Potosi, Wisconsin. When Dave was indoors, he enjoyed cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs. They were also known for throwing incredible Christmas parties with lots of beautifully decorated trees, something Dave was equally as involved in as Margo.

Dave is survived by his wife, Margo; their sons, Jim Bailey of Nebraska, and Chris Bailey of Pennsylvania; his mom and dad, Donald and Nancy; brothers, Don (Debby) Bailey Jr., Matthew (Andy) Bailey, Douglas Bailey; sisters, Deborah (Skip) (Bailey) Magner and Melissa Bailey; and his beloved dog, Bailey.

David “Dave” L. Bailey, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly of San Diego, California, passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2026.

A private family Celebration of Life will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Dave was born on March 22, 1955, in Maryland, the son of Donald and Nancy (Pennabaker) Bailey. Dave received his B.S. in Computer Science; to say he was smart is an understatement. He retired from Abbott Medical Laboratories as a Senior Systems Analyst. On August 19, 1989, Dave married the love of his life and his soulmate, Margo Andersen. Together they shared 37 years of love, support, and adventure.

Dave loved to spend time outside and enjoyed being in nature. On a nice summer’s day, he could be found working in his garden with his trusted dog, Bailey, watching over him. Friends and family were thankful to reap the benefits of his gardening and kindness, whether it was a wave across the yard or fresh produce. For weeks at a time, Dave, Margo and Bailey would travel across the country in their motor home. He enjoyed bird watching, especially at their “Bailey Bird Bistro.” His favorite camping spot was at Grant River Recreation Center in Potosi, Wisconsin. When Dave was indoors, he enjoyed cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs. They were also known for throwing incredible Christmas parties with lots of beautifully decorated trees, something Dave was equally as involved in as Margo.

Dave is survived by his wife, Margo; their sons, Jim Bailey of Nebraska, and Chris Bailey of Pennsylvania; his mom and dad, Donald and Nancy; brothers, Don (Debby) Bailey Jr., Matthew (Andy) Bailey, Douglas Bailey; sisters, Deborah (Skip) (Bailey) Magner and Melissa Bailey; and his beloved dog, Bailey.

Toni E. Linden

Toni Elaine Linden, 70, of Dubuque, died Monday, May 25, 2026, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Toni will be at 10:30 am on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Toni was born October 14, 1955, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Dean and Lylas (Amling) Carnicle. Her father passed when she was only a year old and her mother married Harold Hines who helped raise her. On July 18, 1987, she married Dale Linden in Dubuque.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1974 and attended NICC where she obtained three Associates Degrees of Arts in Legal Assistant, Criminal Justice, and Human Services.

Toni worked at the Dubuque Pack until they closed. She then went to work at HyVee for several years and also Albrecht Acres, a job she truly enjoyed.

Toni was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. She treasured the time she spent volunteering with the Dubuque Senior Color Guard while Samantha was a member. Toni also enjoyed quilting, sewing, attending car shows with Dale and his 1978 Z28 Camaro, and taking rides on the Harley. Above all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren and was incredibly proud to watch them grow into the people they are today.

Survivors include her husband, Dale Linden of Dubuque; her daughter, Samantha (Ryan) Lammers of Earlville, IA; four grandchildren, Brooklynn, Dylan, Allie, and Willow; one great-grandchild due in July; her step-father, Harold Hines of Dubuque; and one sister, Kim Hines of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her mother, father, her in-laws, and one sister, Vicki Carnicle.

Memorials may be given in Toni’s name to Albrecht Acres.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Ennoble Nursing Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

William F. Vander Meulen

William Frederick “Bill” Vander Meulen, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 23, 2026, at MercyOne Hospital in Des Moines, surrounded by the love of his family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Church with Fr. Raymond Burkle officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Family and friends may gather for visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

Bill was born on November 2, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Robert and Mary Vander Meulen. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and married the love of his life, Elaine (Ernst) Vander Meulen, on June 4, 1966, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Iowa. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and hard work.

Bill dedicated 35 years to John Deere, where he formed lifelong friendships and proudly participated in the John Deere bowling league. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed the chance to cheer on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Indianapolis Colts, and New York Yankees. Whether it was bowling, watching a game, or traveling with his family and friends, Bill looked forward to each event. 

Above all, Bill loved his family. He adored his grandchildren and took every opportunity to teach them the value of doing things with their own hands—believing that the skills you learn yourself are the ones that stay with you for life. He treasured caring for his wife of 60 years, often spoiling her with everyday tasks.

Bill is survived by his wife, Elaine Vander Meulen; his daughters Lisa (Shawn) Decker and Cindy Vander Meulen (Ron Wagner); his daughter-in-law, Amy (Steve Beireis) Vander Meulen; his grandchildren Ryan Decker (Logan Hagood), Carley Vander Meulen, Andrew Decker (Elyse Dromeshauser), Colten Vander Meulen (Paige Oberman), and Derek Vander Meulen (Kaitlyn Blasen); his brother Rich Vander Meulen; sister‑in‑law Ellen Vander Meulen; extended family including Diane Kotz; Carla Ernst; Carla Ernst Chumbley; Steve and Gale Ernst; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Mary Vander Meulen; his son William “Bill” Vander Meulen; his grandson William Joseph Vander Meulen; his parents‑in‑law Carl and Olivia Ernst; his siblings‑in‑law Dale Ernst; Gary and Carol Ernst; Leonard Kotz; and his brother Robert Vander Meulen.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the MercyOne ICU team in Des Moines for their compassionate care.

Memorials in William’s memory may be directed to the family.

Donald P. Carr

Shirley Wang

Shirley Wang, age 90, died on May 23, 2026, in the comfort of her home surrounded by family.

Visitation will begin at 2:30PM on Saturday May 30th, 2026, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 3650 Asbury Rd. Dubuque. Service will follow at 3:30.

Shirley was an only child, born in Dubuque, Iowa to Louis and Lyda Cox. They had a farm on Cox Springs Road that she loved to visit frequently. Later her dad built a home on Asbury Road where she grew up.  Shirley graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and shortly after graduation married Ronald Perry Kirch.  Together they raised six children:

Rhonda (Dave) Neuses -Temple, TX,
Tonia (Ron) Greenawalt -Las Vegas, NV,
Tony (Susan) Kirch – Haslet, TX,
Randy (Suzanne) Kirch – Evansville, WI,
Suzanne Pike – Dubuque, IA,
and Perry (Angela) Kirch – Garner, NC.

She has 13 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Shirley was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in February 1968. She loved helping others to learn about her God Jehovah and shared with them the reasons for her hope and faith in the Bible. Shirley began traveling all over the world after her late husband passed. She would go with her friends… old and new. She loved taking group trips, meeting new friends and embracing new cultures. As one of Jehovah’s Witnesses she had friends everywhere she went and kept in touch with many afterwards. She was an awesome videographer and photographer, always capturing her adventures and milestones of so many friends and family members. She loved playing cards, Dominos, reading, and doing creative embroidery. She was a talented seamstress, a cake decorator, and an exceptional pianist. She once visited the former home of Chopin, which was one of her favorite composers.

Anyone that knew her would agree she was always full of joy and always smiling. She maintained such a positive spirit no matter what happened in life. Her motto was “You can’t change it, so just be happy.” She was hard-working, self-sacrificing and always making space and time for people she loved.

She learned to speak Mandarin Chinese in her 60’s and loved teaching the Bible to Chinese speakers as well. In December 2000, she married Tie Jun Wang. He brought one son into our family,, Maio Wang from Plano, Texas. They continued traveling the world together and shared a love for music.

We promised that we would take care of her to the end, and we are so privileged that we were able to do that with the help of Hospice of Dubuque. A special thanks to the Hospice Staff and to all of our friends that provided prayers, visits, loving hugs, meals, texts, and so much more during these past few weeks.

Condolences for the family can be left at tristatecremationcenter.com

Robert G. Smith

Robert G. “Bob” Smith, 86, of Dubuque died Saturday, May 23, 2026. A Farewell Toast Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Wednesday, May 27 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28 at the Church of the Resurrection. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where military rites will be accorded.

Bob was born September 3, 1939 in Dubuque, son of Robert and Madelyn (Beyhl) Smith.

After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1957, Bob served in the US Navy. Upon returning home he went to work for John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years.

On October 8, 1960, Bob married Sandy Waldbillig at the Church of the Nativity. In addition to working at John Deere, Bob owned and operated Smith Cyle with Sandy and their son Chris.

Bob loved motorcycles, and raced professionally for ten years, using the number 78K. He also raced snowmobiles, earning a top 5 at Eagle River.

Bob was an avid golfer and  traveled extensively. He played at many of the “high altars of golf”, including St. Andrews, Royal Troon, Carnoustie, Turnberry, Royal Portrush, Adaire Manor, Ballybunion, Doonbeg, Mt. Juliet, Royal Country Down, Old Head, the K Club and in the United States, Torrey Pines.

He was also an avid skier, having skied the Matterhorn in Zermott, Switzerland at the age of 74.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy Smith of Dubuque; three children, Bobby (Janet) Smith of Fairfax, Iowa, Chris “Hymie” Smith of Dubuque and Dawne (John) Greenwood of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Justin Smith and Michael (Isabel) and Alec Hafeman and a great granddaughter, Maria.

He is also survived by his siblings, Lynn (Lynn) Smith of Dubuque, Terry (Janice) Smith of

Rio Ranco, NM, Kevin (Ann) Smith of Dubuque and Cathy Morley of Spring, TX; a sister in law, Deb Smith of Dubuque, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by several siblings and spouses, Jerry and Karen Smith, Dianne Breitbach, Mary and David Wright and Scott Smith; and a brother in law, Bobby Morley.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, as well as Dr. Tauseef Kahn and his staff, for their wonderful care.

Roseanne M. Phillips

Rosanne Marie Phillips, a devoted servant, beloved educator, and cherished sister, passed peacefully from her earthly life on May 12, 2026. She has entered into her new eternal home, welcomed into the joyful arms of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Rosanne’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith in action, defined by a profound transformation in the spring of 1982, when she was born again into Christ’s Kingdom. From that moment on, her faith was her compass. For twenty years, she was a proud and active participant in the Emmaus Worldwide Ministry, where she reviewed courses and faithfully prayed for the students while also actively serving in the local Jail Ministry in Dubuque.

Her true love was studying God’s Word at Emmaus and alongside her church family at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel. These quiet hours of reflection built a firm, unshakeable foundation in her faith. Rosanne was known by all as a woman of deep, faithful prayer possessed of a quick wit, a ready smile, and a unique gift for encouraging others. This encouragement was uniquely expressed through her extraordinary, handcrafted card-making ministry. For Rosanne, painting and card-making were not just quiet hobbies; they were tangible, bright expressions of her thoughtful spirit and a vital way she shared Christ’s love. As a woman defined by her deep love for the Lord, Rosanne spent countless hours meticulously crafting personalized cards for hundreds of people, leaving a lasting impact on all who received them.

She lived her life anchored by the promise of Romans 15:13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Born on January 18, 1948, to Eugene and Clorene Irick, Rosanne grew up with a passion for knowledge. After graduating from the University of Nebraska, she moved to Dubuque in 1970 to begin what would become a beautiful, 35-year teaching career at Hoover Elementary School, shaping the minds and hearts of generations of children.

Rosanne was the proud eldest sister of Paula Leopold (Highlands Ranch, CO), Bonnie Hoegemeyer (Lincoln, NE), Cindy Hine (Dubuque, IA), and Rebecca Rothe (Arvada, CO). Her love radiates down through the generations, and she leaves behind a rich legacy of 11 nieces and nephews, 17 great-nieces and nephews, and 14 great-great-nieces and nephews.

A service celebrating Rosanne’s life and faith will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, 2843 JFK Road.

The family is being assisted by Behr Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel Mission Fund, a cause incredibly near and dear to Rosanne’s heart, continuing her legacy of sharing Christ’s love with the world.

Online condolences, memories, and expressions of sympathy may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com.

Susan J. Herron

Susan Jane (Pierce) Herron, formerly of Eagle Pointe Place, died peacefully surrounded by family at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque on May 20, 2026, at the age of 88.

Susan was born on September 10, 1937, to David and Myrtle (Schloz) Pierce. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High in 1955 and briefly attended the University of Dubuque before marrying James (Jim) Herron on August 1, 1959.

In her youth, Susan was a very accomplished tennis player. Along with her sister Delores, she won numerous singles and doubles tournaments locally and around the country. One of the biggest thrills of her career was playing a match against future Wimbledon champion Maureen (Little Mo) Connolly. She may not have won, but the experience was something she never forgot. Over the years, family was her everything. Whether spending time on vacation, lunching daily at Big Apple Bagel with her sister, cheering on her grandchildren at an event or performance, or helping prepare a holiday meal, she enjoyed being surrounded by her loved ones. She may have slowed down a bit while at Eagle Pointe Place, but bingo, happy hour and eating dinner with her “table ladies” still always brought a smile.

Susan is survived by her two daughters Jane (Todd) Spurling and Julie (Joel) Carr; grandchildren Sam Spurling (Kasey Hogan), Alex Spurling, Rachel Spurling (Jon Powers), Abby and Ethan Carr; and great-granddaughter, August Powers. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim, her sister Delores Merritt, and two brothers-in-law, Thomas Merritt and Douglas Herron.

Susan requested no formal service, but the family will hold a private celebration at a later date. Donations may be made in her memory to the Dubuque Humane Society or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Eagle Pointe Place, Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque and Paramount Ambulance. The attention, care and compassion of the caregivers and staff at each of these places is deeply appreciated.

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

Charles Northrup III

Charles “Chuck” Northrup III, 50, of Dubuque, died Sunday, May 17, 2026.

A celebration of life will be Friday, June 19 from 4-8 p.m., at the Grand Meadows Club House, 5284 Grand Meadows Drive. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home & Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Chuck was born on May 2, 1976, in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Charles and Jane (Walsh) Northrup. He attended Dubuque Senior High School where he lettered in 3 sports (football, swimming, and soccer.) He also earned academic recognitions including the National Honor Society. After Highschool, Chuck attended Northeast Missouri State University where he swam and became a member of the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. Many of those “brothers” became his lifelong friends. He graduated with a double major in History and Spanish with a minor in biology. Chuck was also a certified Scuba instructor who taught lessons throughout Dubuque and Minnesota. He loved diving and visited many exotic places to certify his students. While he worked at Lifetime Fitness as an Operations Manager, he received an award for performing CPR on a member and saving his life. He later was transferred to Kansas City where he became an avid Chiefs fan. After returning to Dubuque, he changed his career path into education. While working toward his master’s he involved himself in substitute teaching and as a paraprofessional for the Dubuque Community School District. Chuck also shared his passion for athletics as an Assistant Boy’s swim coach for Dubuque Senior High School and an assistant boy’s football coach at Roosevelt Middle School.

Chuck had a brilliant mind, sharp wit, and lifelong love of reading and learning. He always enjoyed initiating and partaking in a heated debate (which he usually won). As a Star Wars junkie he had movies, cards, and other memorabilia.

He is survived by his beloved dog Yanqui, his parents, Charles and Jane Northrup; his sisters, Elizabeth “Liz” (Landon Hartvigsen) Kubitz, of Andover, Minnesota, Kathryn “Katie” Landwehr (Grant Bernardy and daughters Alexa and Ashtyn) of Minnetrista, Minnesota, and Sara (Eric) Johnson of Blue Grass, Iowa; nieces and nephews, Ben (Cheyanne), Nick, Zak Kubitz, and Adalyn and Sawyer Johnson along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents and his uncle, Gary Northrup.

Memorials may be given to the DCSD Starting Block Project, benefiting the swim teams.