Obituaries Archive

Marilyn J. Siegert

On Saturday, May 11, 2024 Mom made the decision to reunite with Dad, Eugene Siegert, and be by his side once again.

Marilyn J. “Jayne” Siegert began her 93-year journey in life on August 29, 1930, the daughter of George and Dorothy (Wagner) Frohs. She attended the Visitation Academy and continued at Clarke College (University) in Dubuque.

On May 9, 1953, mom was united in marriage to Eugene “Gene” Siegert at the Church of the Nativity. They continued life together for 63 wonderful years until Gene’s passing on January 17, 2017.

Mom grew up as an only child always longing for a big family. She made up for it by raising six children – five of them born within a six-year period and one extra special bonus five years later. While dad worked countless hours establishing his funeral home, she somehow managed to raise her “perfect” kids.

Mom was magical, she could make a vacation in an old cottage at Frentress Lake seem like a trip to Disneyland; enhance an April fool’s day joke by baking cotton balls into the dinner rolls, but most importantly she made all the small hurts in a little kid’s life disappear.

She was the best grandma. From her spritz Christmas cookies, hiding the pickle ornament in the Christmas tree, to the annual search for the chocolate Easter Bunny, she made each holiday memorable. Her traditions will carry on in the generations to come.

Mom was an active member of Resurrection parish, a volunteer at Mercy Hospital Service Club and a member of Thunder Hills Country Club where she enjoyed golf and bridge. To her family she was known as “Jackpot Jayne” and rightly so, winning many games of poker with skill or shenanigans. Her opponents couldn’t prove either way, and to this day she has mostly held the winning hand.

After their family was raised and Gene retired, they enjoyed many years of traveling the world. Love of a fun adventure made Thursday and Saturday lunch outings, road trips and the local Farmers Market something to look forward to. Waitresses at her favorite restaurants greeted her by name, knew her favorite table, glass of wine and appetizer. She shared the who, what and where with photos via text message to her family asking, “Where in the world is Jackpot?” And the guessing game would begin. We will have a toast to you, Mom! (And a stack of onion rings.) Cheers to those days that will always be treasured.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Jim (Jill) Siegert of Macks Creek, MO, Gina Siegert of Dubuque, Paula (D.J.) Rapp of LaMotte, IA, Tom (Lynn) Siegert of East Dubuque, IL, Bob (Shannon) Siegert of Bellevue, IA, and Karen (Josh Elsenraat) Siegert of Springfield, MO; grandchildren, Todd (Candice) Siegert, Seth (Vicki) Siegert, Ben Seeling, Luke (Mauren) Seeling, Paula Seeling, Jess (Chad) Steve, Kate (Adam) Rapp-Uptegraph, Ellen Rapp, Erin (Kyle) Woods, Drew (Angie) Siegert, Calli (Josh) Ramler, Lauren (Pervez) Soomar, Sarah Siegert, Brad (Lindsay) Siegert, Kelly (Michael) Fegan, and Nathan Siegert Elsenraat; and 22 great- grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Joshua Siegert; sister-in-law, Carol Sherman; and brother and sister-in-law, Edmund (Betty) Siegert.

In keeping with Mom’s joyful spirit and to share the wonderful memories, a Farewell Toast visitation will be held from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, at the Church of the Resurrection with the Very Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

To honor Jayne, take a moment to curl up with a good book, savor a drink with loved ones, or call up your mom and tell her you love her. Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or a charity of your choice.

Special thanks to Dr. Andrea Ries, and the compassionate nurses and dedicated staff at MercyOne Medical Center, Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

We love you mom – “I love you more”.

Mary E. Williams

Mary Ellen Williams, age 82, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on May 11, 2024, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Mary’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held from 12:00-4:00 p.m., on Sunday, June 9, 2024, in the Promenade Bridge Pavilion at Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Avenue in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on June 9, 1941, in Waukon, IA, a daughter to William S. and Mary Lucy (Clancy) Thomas.  She was a loving wife and mother who did her best to make the most out of life and the blessings and tragedies which both seem to find their way into it.  She was united in marriage to Eddy Edwards who was sadly called home much too early in life.  Mary thankfully discovered love again with Francis Williams and were blessed with many years and two children of their own as well until he also was called home ahead of her.  Mary found great joy in her family and nurturing them.  Coming home to a loaf of fresh baked bread was quite common in Mary’s home and her skills in the kitchen when it came to baking and cooking were second to none.  Sadly, Mary was forced to face the pain of losing five children throughout her life, a beyond difficult reality that no mother should have to bear.  Through it all, Mary strived to find the good in life where it presented itself.  She always enjoyed a little time at the flea market and collecting and restoring antiques were among some of her favorite pastimes.  She was also an avid bingo player who wore out her share of daubers over the years and even tried her luck at the casino from time to time.  Life was not an easy journey for Mary, but her love for her family and friends was continually on display whenever possible.  It’s with quite heavy hearts that we must say farewell for now to Mary, but we find peace in knowing that her earthly battles have now subsided and her eternal reunion with her loved one’s has begun.  Thank you, Mary, for reminding us that every day is a gift, every blessing should be recognized, and that none of us are promised a perfect life and it’s best to find the joy we seek where we can.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we see you again. 

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include; her three children, Jock (Jeanna) Edwards, Maquoketa, IA, Kelly (Brad) Gilson, Newton, IA, and John J. (Shawna) Williams, Dubuque, IA; her numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sister, Patty Coffman, Dubuque, IA; her sisters-in-law, Lorraine Thomas, WI, and Cindy Thomas, Dubuque, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her two husbands, Eddy Edwards and Francis Williams; her five children, Eddy Edwards, Tammy Edwards Dauber, Billy Edwards, Steve Edwards, and Harry Edwards; her siblings, Joan Johnson, Pauline (Fred “Fritz”) Donath, Rose Renard, William “Doc” Thomas, John Thomas, and Jeff Thomas; and her brother-in-law, Jim Coffman.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials and expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Mary’s family at Kelly Gilson, 7607 Highway F48 West, Newton, IA, 50208.

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

Franziska M. Redmond

Franziska M. Redmond, 85, of Dubuque passed away Thursday, May 9, 2024.  Private family services will be held.

Franziska (Sissi) was born in Jihlava Czechoslovakia and after marrying her husband Ronald, they eventually moved from Germany to settle in Dubuque in 1956.

Franziska was a small business owner, an avid bowler in her earlier days, loved gardening and more than anything loved her family.   

She is survived by her husband Ronald Redmond of Dubuque; a son, Randy (Dawn) Redmond of Canton, Georgia; five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Sonja Koch and a son, Rick Redmond.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

Sarah C. Coyle

Sarah C. “Sally” Coyle, 84, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024 at Accura Health Care in Cascade, Iowa. surrounded by her family.

Visitation for Sally will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 4:30 p.m.   Visitation will also continue after 9 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Services for Sally will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born July 25, 1959 in Farley, Iowa, daughter of LeRoy and Anna Marie (Steffen) Smith.  She received her education in the Farley area schools.  On November 22, 1955 she was united in marriage to Melvin Coyle at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on September 1, 1987.

She was employed at Ensign Coil and later at Modern Fold.  She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by two daughters, Betty (Paul) Pierce of Dyersville, IA, and Connie (Mike) Starks of Monticello, IA; three sons, James Coyle and Robert Coyle both of Cascade, IA;  Timothy Coyle of Monticello, IA 16 grandchildren;  28 great grandchildren; 3 great-greatgrandchildren: she is survived by three siblings, Virgil (Sheila Danis) Smith, Mildred “Mitzie” Hosch,  and Louetta “Kay” Smith all of Cascade; two brothers-in-law Joe and Marie Coyle of Hopkinton, IA and Bud Coyle of Monticello, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, six siblings, Jim (Vida) Smith, Dorothy “Dutch” (Paul) Lehman, Margie (Carl) Frank, Virginia (Melvin) Leibold, Lavon (Charlie) Hoefer, and Karen Smith; one sister-in-law,  Mary Smith; a brother-in-law,  David Hosch.

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

The family of Sally would like to thank Above and Beyond Hospice, the staff of Accura Health Care in Cascade and especially her granddaughter, Angie for all the care given to mom.

Paul J. Vaassen

Paul J. Vaassen, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 9, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday May 13, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday May 14, 2024 at Holy Family Catholic Church, New Melleray. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Military Flag Presentation will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Paul was born on August 22, 1934, in Sinsinawa, Wisconsin, son of John J. and Mary (Busch) Vaassen. He graduated from Loras Academy in 1952 and Loras College in 1957, both in Dubuque. Paul honorably served his country in the Iowa Army National Guard for nine years. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Ann, at St. Joseph’s Prairie Catholic Church on June 7, 1958, and together they had four children: Daniel, James, Paula, and Patrick.

Paul taught high school at Sacred Heart in Waterloo for two years, then he went to DeSales Central Catholic in Ossian for three years, and then Western Dubuque High School for 15 years. He was a natural leader and coached basketball, baseball, and women’s softball. Paul umpired for more than 20 years and was honorably inducted into the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame as an Umpire.

His faith was also very important to him. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Prairie Catholic Church, then Holy Family Catholic Church, New Melleray, where he was a lector, distributor, on the parish council, and a choir member. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He was also a long time farmer south of Dubuque, an active member of Dubuque County Farm Bureau, he was one of the founders of the Dubuqueland Angus Association, a member of the Iowa Angus Association and the American Angus Association, and also the treasurer of the National Junior Angus Shows that were held in Des Moines, Iowa.  He served as a 4-H leader for the Table Mound Junior Ranchers and was inducted into both the Dubuque County and Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.

Paul also managed the Dubuque County Fairgrounds for 14 years and was an Iowa State Fair Board Member for 34 years and was awarded the Iowa State Fair Hall of Fame Award in 2018. He had immense pride and joy being part of the Iowa State Fair and the county fairs he represented in his district that he visited every summer. Listening to his enthusiasm and seeing his face light up as he talked about the Iowa State Fair was an amazing testament to the passion and delight he had and shared with others.

As busy as Paul was his entire life, the time he spent with family was the source of his greatest joys. He treasured every moment he was able to spend with his grandchildren and the delight on his face when he shared photos of his great-grandchildren was contagious. He will be remembered not only for his hard work and commitment, but for all the heart he shared with family and friends. Even through his recent health struggles, he maintained his optimistic outlook on life, worked so hard to rebuild his strength and was so grateful for the compassionate care, assistance and support he received. Thank you to Stonehill Care Center, all of Paul’s doctors and nurses for their excellent care and concern for Paul and the entire family. Thank you to Msgr. Thomas Toale and Leonard Funeral Home for your guidance.   Paul made a lasting impact in countless ways on so many people and will be missed dearly.

Paul is survived by his wife Mary Ann, children Dan (Sharon) Vaassen of Ann Arbor, MI, Jim (Karen) Vaassen of Key West, IA, Paula (Rod) McGraw of Winthrop, IA, and Patrick (Terry) Vaassen of Marshalltown, IA, grandchildren Rachael Coleman, Patti Fosdick, Nick Vaassen,  Matt McGraw, Mitch McGraw, Mason McGraw, Max McGraw,  nine great grandchildren, siblings Marge (Bill) Cummer, Gene Vaassen, Leonard Vaassen, Phyllis Lutes, Gerald (Connie) Vaassen, Lois Vaassen and sister in law Carole Vaassen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Jerome Vaassen, and sisters-in-law Kathie Vaassen and Mary Jane Vaassen.

A memorial fund will be established in his name.

Richard Polfer

Richard “Dick” Polfer, 86 of Peosta passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family May 9, 2024.

A Visitation for Richard will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday May 13, 2024, at Reiff Funeral Home, 894 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa 52068.  A visitation will also be held after 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday at the Funeral Home in Peosta.

Services for Richard will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa with Msgr. Daniel Knepper presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

Dick was born December 6, 1937, in Cascade, Iowa, the son of Nicholas and Veronica (Kelchen) Polfer.  On October 22, 1960, he was united in marriage to Jean Leyendecker at Saint Paul’s Catholic Church, Worthington, Iowa.  Richard was employed at Tschiggfrie in Dubuque, Iowa for 30 years.  He also worked for Tegeler’s Body Shop, Nickol Construction, Royal Oaks, and Murphy Construction.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Parish in Peosta, Iowa.  Dick served in the U.S. Army from 1961-1963.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean, six children, Deb (Matt) Harthan of Ventura, Iowa, Eileen Hines of Chandler,  AZ, Al (Joyce) Polfer of Farley, IA, Bob (Kathy) Polfer of Worthington, IA, Brian (Dani) Polfer of Muskego, WI, Jeff Polfer (fiancé Jennifer Lewin) of Worthington, IA; his 10 grandchildren, Brandon Harthan, Blake Hines, Brianna Floyd, Stefani Puccio, Allen Polfer, Nicole Polfer, Samantha White, Zach Polfer, Kaley Polfer & Savanna Lehman; six step-grandchildren, Alex Hassforth, Abbi Hassforth, Jon Combs, Ethan Combs, Dallas Elmer, and Charlee Elmer; his two sisters, Patricia Tauke of Cascade, IA, Janet Funke of Dyersville, IA, and brother Chas (Mary Jane) Polfer of The Villages, FL; his in-laws, Marge Gassmann, Judy Lammers, Linda (Dave) Burger, Steve (Christa) Leyendecker, Mary Leyendecker, Rick (Karla) Leyendecker, and Kathy (Pat) Hayes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick & Veronica Polfer, mother-in-law Irene (Leyendecker) Till & father-in-law, Silvarius Leyendecker; a son-in-law, Paul Hines; a granddaughter Kaitlyn Polfer; a step grandson, Max Hassforth; a sister, Mary Ann Jaeger; brothers-in-law, Bill Jaeger, Wayne Tauke, Floyd Funke, LeRoy Gassmann, Jerry Lammers, and Nick Wolfe; and sister-in-law Rose Wolfe; and two  nephews, Jeff Jaeger and Jeff Lammers.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all the care and support given to Dick and our family.

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

Gary C. Pancratz

Gary “Rock” Charles Pancratz, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa passed into heaven on May 7th, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating.  Entombment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A Celebration of Gary’s Life will follow the burial at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Rd, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Gary was born in Dubuque to Charles and Mary Dorothy (McCarthy) Pancratz. He met his wife, Cindy (Zimmerman) while attending Dubuque Senior High School, and they married on February 5, 1977. They have three children and six grandchildren. He worked even harder than he played, and always prioritized his family. He labored professionally in construction, and later roofing and floor installation, but was never too busy to help a friend or family member with anything. Born with “the gift of gab,” Gary’s outgoing personality naturally earned him many friends, whom he routinely referred to by nickname. Everywhere he went he knew someone, and he usually left knowing even more. He loved to tell jokes and knew just how to deliver them. He drew out smiles and laughter from almost every conversation, and generated an entire library of “Garyisms” that will forever be ingrained in the language of his kin.

In his youth, Gary excelled at a variety of sports, including football, wrestling and track. He later greatly enjoyed football season, and particularly watching the Bears and the Hawkeyes. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening and took pride in producing fresh veggies and his annual pumpkins. He loved to tinker and toil with all manners of projects and machines, but most especially his cherished John Deere, as though there could never be a replacement for such a fine piece of equipment. Gary always looked forward to Sunday dinners with his family. He adored his grandchildren, and especially at times when the house was full and chaotic, he would nod his head approvingly and comment, “This is what it’s all about.” After he retired, he discovered that he enjoyed baking. Among the many concoctions he loved to share, his most frequent and memorable dishes (especially for his Grandkiddos) were “Papa’s” bread, chocolate chip cookies, and homemade pizza.

Gary is survived by his wife, Cindy, children Cassie Pancratz (Keith Bechen), Katie (Dave) Barnes, Noah (Lauren) Pancratz, his precious grandchildren, Isaac, Madeline, Taylor, and Alexandra Gukeisen, Everley and Ford Pancratz, siblings Charlene (Robert) Lynch, Emily (Bobby) Fisher, Patty (Jerry) Oberhoffer, an aunt Lillian Kies, life-long close friend Pete Eischeid, and many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Dorothy and infant siblings Daniel, William, and Elizabeth.

Gary’s family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and his staff at Medical Associates Oncology along with Tami and the Hospice of Dubuque team for their loving and gracious care.

A Gary C. Pancratz Memorial Fund has been established.

Donna A. Hudson

Donna Ann (Hemple) Hudson, 78, of Dubuque, IA, peacefully gained her angel wings on November 19th, 2023, at her home in Leesburg, Florida.

Services will be Friday, May 17th with visitation from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with a short prayer service to follow. Those that wish to attend are welcome to the burial at the East Dubuque Cemetery after the services, to place Donna at her final resting spot – with her husband & son.

Donna was born November 11th, 1945, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of John Hemple & Agnes (Hampton) Lively. She married the love of her life, James (Jim) Hudson on April 25th, 1964, they raised two children together, and cherished 41 years of marriage before Jim’s passing in 2005. Donna worked at numerous establishments around Dubuque including cooking at Loras College, with Jim at the Diamond Jo Casino, & serving at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club. She seemed to know everyone in Dubuque – she could never walk through the grocery store without catching up with at least a few people! Her 78 years were full of spreading love, joy, sarcasm, eye rolls, and sass. She made friends everywhere she went, and lives are better because of it.

She was a woman of many talents & interests. Donna was a master of crocheting sports themed Afghans & adorable baby blankets/clothes, an avid General Hospital fan, and an amazing cook who never measured a single ingredient. Her potato salad, macaroni salad, soups, and desserts were always the best! You would never leave her house hungry. She also loved animals and cared for many cats and dogs throughout her life. They were truly members of her family. She spent the last several years mostly in Florida, since she wasn’t a fan of the cold weather, but made trips back when she could. She was a loving person who always took care of everyone around her. Not a day went by that Donna didn’t talk about how much her family meant to her and how proud she was of her children & grandchildren.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Wanda (Tom) Russett; grandchildren, Jessie (Adam) Rheault, James Hudson III, Jake (Annika) Hudson, Alex Hudson, Alyssa Hudson, & Kaylin Crippes; great-grandchildren, Ellie & Sam Rheault, and Landon Hudson; sister Karen (Roger) Litscher, her beloved companion, Larry Barlow; along with countless other family members and friends she treated like family. She was predeceased by her husband, James Hudson; son, James Hudson II; cherished friend, Colleen Downing; and nephew, Jeremy Litscher, who we have no doubt greeted her at the gates of heaven. Donna will be terribly missed but she left an imprint on our hearts that will never be forgotten.

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

Richard F. Pfohl

Richard F. Pfohl, 84, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, May 13, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Richard will be 10:30 am Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Timmerman officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque.

Richard was born December 16, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Delbert and Helen (Winders) Pfohl. On April 12, 1969, he married Nancy Avery at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA.

Richard graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1958. He worked in the Experimental department at John Deere for 36 years until retiring in 1993.

He was a proud and devoted father and grandfather and enjoyed attending any activities or events his kids and grandkids were involved in.

Richard enjoyed time boating, water skiing, and fishing on the Mississippi River. His parents had a cottage in Guttenberg while he was growing up, so his love for the river began there. Rich also loved cars. His pride and joy was his ’58 Cadillac that he enjoyed taking on car cruises and to Graffiti Nights. He loved drag racing and spending time at the track with his sons. They enjoyed running their Sox & Martin replica drag car as members of the Nostalgia Super Stocks club.

There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix and he spent many hours on projects in the garage or generously helping any of his kids or friends.

He and his wife loved annual winter travel to the warmer southern and western states where they enjoyed time with family and friends from all over the world.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy; six children, Shellie (Karlin) Pfohl of Golden, CO; Lisa (Rafael) Dominguez of Peosta; Craig (Andrea) Pfohl; Mark (Molly) Pfohl; Laura (Bob) Bies; and Jason (Jody) Pfohl all of Dubuque; 10 grandchildren, Anthony & Andrew Dominguez, Riley Chudik, Megan Pfohl (fiance, Jake Winandy), Andrew & Emma Glennon, Kyle & Luke Bies, and Alex & Morgan Pfohl; two brothers, Gary (Teresa) Pfohl and Paul (Sue) Pfohl; one sister, Juanita (Don) Herbst; one sister-in-law, Jan (Paul) Loes; and several nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

James R. Zweibohmer

James R. Zweibohmer, 80, of Sherrill, Iowa passed away on May 6th, 2024 at home with family by his side.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday May 16, 2024, at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, Iowa, with a Wake Service beginning at 3:45 p.m. Additional visitation will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the church from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, Iowa, with Fr. Tyler Raymond officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Fort Atkinson, Iowa.

James was born on July 21, 1943, in Decorah, Iowa, son of Greg and Esther (Murray) Zweibohmer. He received his education from De Sales School in Ossian, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Carol Ann Huber on August 29, 1964, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson, Iowa. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works in Labor and Assembly for 30 years. James enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and serving as a Boy Scout Leader: He also loved spending time with his cats.

James is survived by his wife Carol, four children Beth Zweibohmer of Dubuque, IA, Jeanette (Mike) Miller of Escondido, CA, Rodney (Judy) Zweibohmer of Farley, IA, and Eric Zweibohmer of Elain, IA; seven grandchildren Jesse Zweibohmer, Curt (Lisbon) Hora, Allen Miller, Reba (Tim) Klein, Isabelle (Luke) Behnke, Andrew Zweibohmer, and Nickolas Behnke; eight great grandchildren Brianna (Bryant), Koltan, Audrina, Tucker, Sam, Justice, Dawson, and Lucas, along with one great great granddaughter Brynlee. Four sisters Lois (Lee) Meinert of Ankeny, IA, Louise Heying of Ossian, IA, Patti Larson of Ionia, IA, and Norma Glass of West Union, IA; two brothers Larry (Connie) Zweibohmer of Charlotte, NC and David Zweibohmer of Cresco, IA, sisters-in-law Mary Lou Zweibohmer of Dubuque, IA, Shirley (Loren) Hauglang of New Hampton, IA, Dorothy Evango of Peyton, CO, and Barb (Ron) Klimesh of Calmer, IA, brothers-in-law Carl (Eileen) Huber of Dike, IA, and Dale (Karen) Huber of Calmer, IA, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Greg and Esther Zweibohmer, parents-in-law  Zeno and Gladys Huber Jr., brother Greg Zweibohmer, sister Catherine in infancy, brothers-in-law John Heying, Mike Evango, and Lyle, and sister-in-law Joann.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James’s name to Camp Albrecht Acres.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Tami, Kim, and Chris, for their care of dad.

Randy J. Ehlinger

Randy Joseph Ehlinger, age 64 of Zwingle, passed away unexpectedly at his home on May 7, 2024.

He was born on January 6, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, the son of Cyril and Avalene (Small) Ehlinger.  He grew up on the family farm south of Bernard, and graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1978, and then spent many years farming and milking cows in the Leisure Lake area. He joined Simon’s Trucking in Farley and spent the rest of his career as a dedicated over the road truck-driver, often spending weeks at a time in his semi on routes across the United States.  Although thousands of miles apart, he always made time to call home and check in on his parents. They always looked forward to his phone calls and hearing about all of the cities and sights he saw along the way.

Those left to honor his memory are his two sisters Sandi (Jeff) Mason and their sons Jack and Ben of Dewitt, Lori (Dave) Serrano II of Davenport, and a brother Lynn (Sharon) Ehlinger and their children Nicholas, Natalie, Nathaniel, Nolan, and Nora of Maquoketa.   Nieces and Nephews Chelsea (Bo) Robinson, Christa (Stephen Runge) Oldham and their families of Davenport, Craig Ehlinger and Tonya Flenker, and their families of Maquoketa. Randy also has great nieces and great nephews, many aunts and uncles, and a brother Greg.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents Cyril and Avalene Ehlinger, brothers Gary and Philip Ehlinger, sister Debra Oldham, and a nephew Keith Oldham.

Randy has been a great friend to many over the years. From those that have known him during his younger years and have stayed lifelong friends to the devoted and caring neighbors.  He always introduced himself and found something or someone that you both had in common. 

He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and right at home! 

As a way to celebrate his life, always remember to have time for “one more”!

The family is honoring Randy’s request and will have a private family burial at a later date from the St. Aloysius Cemetery, South Garryowen, rural Bernard.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 in care of the Randy J. Ehlinger Family.

Online condolences and notes of support of may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Jean A. Harris

Jean A. Harris, 87, of Galena, IL, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI. A funeral service will be held at noon on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

She was born April 8, 1937, in Galena, the daughter of Albert and Bernice (Holland) Harris. Jean graduated in 1957 from Galena High School and got a job at the Jo Daviess County Courthouse, where she worked for one year; then decided on a lifelong career at Kraft Foods, Galena, where she worked as a secretary until her retirement in 1993. After her retirement, she dedicated herself to caring for her mother, Bernice, until her passing in 1999. Although Jean never married and had children, she devoted most of her time to being a wonderful aunt to her nieces and nephews, who all stayed very close to her.

Besides being a loving daughter, sister, and aunt, Jean had many talents. She started to crochet when she was a teen, and it took her two years to complete her first quilt. Since then, she has made many quilts, along with baby clothes. Jean also loved to sew and paint ceramics; at one time, and even had her own kiln. When able she enjoyed traveling and going on shopping trips. She also loved collecting teddy bears, books, movies, stamps, and beanie babies. Jean is remembered for her kindness, gentleness, compassion, fairness, and love.

She is survived by a brother, Charles “Duke” Harris of AZ; sister-in-law, Susan Harris of AZ; three nephews, Chuck Harris, Mike (Sonja) Harris, and Paul Harris, two nieces, Jodi (Jon) Schoenhardt and Cari (Dan) Hulscher, several great-nieces, and nephews and one great-great niece.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Floyd and Ronald, a niece, Jennifer, aunts, and uncles.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Koenigs, the staff at St. Dominic Villa and AGrace Hospice. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

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

Andrew J. Loop

Andrew James Loop, 51, treasured son, brother, spouse and father died by suicide on May 4 at his home. Andrew was beloved by all who knew him.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at Grand View Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Dr., Dubuque, and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, at Grand View Methodist Church. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, at Grand View Methodist Church, and will be live-streamed.  Rev. Tom Shinkle will officiate. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home.

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Andrew was the fourth child of Bertrand H. and Shirley M. (Dennie) Loop. He married his queen, Brenda Taylor, on June 28, 1994, the third generation of Taylor’s to be married on that day. They were blessed with a son, Skylar, in 1998.

After graduating from Monticello High School in 1992, he attended the University of Northern Iowa and in his first semester there, he met a lovely lass in the lunch line of Redeker Dining Center. Chaos ensued when he returned for second semester and she no longer worked at lunch time. Luckily, he found her again working the dinner shift. After a disastrous first date with one broken cup holder in his 1992 Chevy Cavalier and one case of food poisoning, he recounted later than he knew she was the one since she came to check on him between classes. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 1996. He was a lifelong learner and returned to school and completed his MBA in 2003 through St Ambrose. After moving up and down Highway 20 several times Andy, Brenda and Skylar settled in Wisconsin in 2021. More recently, Andrew had completed more than half of his coursework to obtain a Doctorate in Business Administration and was looking forward to continuing to teach at the collegiate level in his retirement.

Andrew had many adopted dads throughout his life after losing his own father at a young age. One of those adopted dads, Ralphy Muller, inspired Andy’s lifelong obsession with classic cars. Andrew completed restoration of his 1965 Mercury Comet while still in high school and worked off and on over the years as time and money allowed on his father-in-law’s 1955 Chevy pickup and his mentor Ralphy’s 1967 Chevy Camaro. One of his favorite things to do was do burnouts in areas the police didn’t frequent.

Andrew and Skylar spent many years together through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts all the way through Skylar’s Eagle Scout with Gold Palm. This included trips to the National Jamboree, Okpick, and Philmont. Andy’s favorite methods of cooking were with Dutch ovens and smokers. Andy and Skylar were also avid weightlifters.

Andrew will be remembered as a tireless worker and for his compassion for others. He spent lots of time working with his teams to develop potential and provide advancement opportunities for others. He gave away dozens of copies of StrengthFinders over the years to enable others to find their passions as he had. For 5 years, he mentored veterans returning to civilian work life for American Corporate Partners and also for five years, he was an adjunct professor in Project Management at UNI. He was the first adjunct professor to receive the Distinguished Professor Award in 2021.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Brenda, and son, Skylar as well his favorite mother-in-law Alice. He is also survived by sisters Nancy Walton of Anamosa, Rosie (Blake) Jones of Parkland, Florida, and Deanna (Stephen) Thomas of Marion and brother-in-law Bob Taylor of Knoxville and nieces and nephews, Brandon Walton, Courtney Lee, Ashley Kertels, Hunter and Tyler Volk and great-nieces Lydia, Peyton and Maya.

Andrew was preceded in death by his parents Bert and Shirley Loop, father-in-law Ron, and brother-in-law Mike Palmersheim.

Mary Ann Samarin

Mary Ann Samarin of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on April 29th, 2024.

Born in the Bronx, New York and later relocating to Southern California as a teenager with her family, Mary Ann became a schoolteacher. After raising a family and 40 plus years of teaching in the same school district, Mary Ann and her husband Howard retired to Dyersville, Iowa.

Mary Ann’s love of teaching continued into retirement as she would substitute for the Western Dubuque School District.

Mary Ann is survived by her sister Stephanie, son Howard, daughter in law Rochelle, and grandchildren Callie, Jarod, Brandon, and Ava.

Services will be private, but please consider making a donation to your favorite charity or volunteering with your local school district.

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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040

Louie J. Boekholder

Louie Joseph Boekholder was born May 6th, 2024, at 2:23p.m. and spent two hours completely taking over his mommy and daddy’s heart before Jesus welcomed him home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 10th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Louie’s uncle Fr. Joshua Link officiating. Family and friends may gather from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at the church. A private family burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Louie was 6 lbs. 1 oz and 19 inches of pure perfection. He had dark hair with a touch of curls. Louie was a beautiful mix of mommy and daddy, with daddy’s nose and mommy’s chin.

Louie was a fighter. From 9 months in mommy’s belly, to delivery and 2 hours in his parent’s arms, Louie was a resilient little boy. Although his earthly life was short, the impact he made on those who love him is immense. Louie was able to meet those closest to him before he passed, which are memories his family members will cherish forever.

Louie’s life will always be celebrated and cherished. He was an incredible miracle that made his parents so proud. His parents feel overwhelmed with joy and peace knowing Jesus chose them to forever share his name and life. Louie’s life was beautifully orchestrated and lived. He is loved, valued and adored.

Louie will be greatly missed by his parents, Jessica and Carter Boekholder, maternal grandparents Angella and Brian Link of Dubuque, paternal grandparents Amy and Dave Boekholder of Dyersville, uncles Father Joshua Link of Clear Lake, IA, Andrew (Sydney Steffen) of Iowa City, and Bryce Boekholder of Las Vegas, NV, great grandmother Kathy Link of Dubuque, and many extended family members. Louie is preceded in death by great grandparents Wanda and Don Remakel, Richard Link, Irvin and Virgie Singsank, and Fay and Bob Boekholder.

The family would like to thank the care team at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s hospital for their care of Louie. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to Abel Speaks, a nonprofit foundation providing support to expecting parents of babies with life limiting diagnosis. https://abelspeaks.org/give/