Obituaries Archive

Lulubell E. Koch

Lulubell E. Koch passed away surrounded by family at home on March 10, 2024, at the age of 87 in Maquoketa, Iowa. She was born on December 26, 1936, in Grand Mound, Iowa, and was lovingly raised by her parents, August and Alice Mae (Schrader) Kunde, along with her beloved twin sister, Bonnabell.

Lulubell’s early education was at Watson country school at Bear Creek, and she later graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1954. It was after graduation that she moved to town and met her lifelong partner, Merwin Koch. Their love story began in March of 1959, and they were united in marriage on October 18, 1959. Together, they welcomed five wonderful children into their family: Brenda, Jeanette, Denise, Darrell, and Dean.

Throughout her life, Lulubell was the epitome of diligence and versatility. As a dedicated homemaker, she worked side by side with her husband on their farm. Her professional journey included roles as a waitress, cook, and bookkeeper. She also held positions at ADAC Plastics, Pacific Coast Feather in Maquoketa, and Farmland Foods in Dubuque.

Lulubell’s zest for life was evident in her many interests and hobbies. She was a member of the Preston Twirlers and relished square dancing with Merwin. Her love for dancing extended to joyful times with her twin sister, Bonnabell. Lulubell had a green thumb, taking pride in her gardening and canning. Her creative spirit shone through in her sewing, knitting, crocheting, furniture refinishing, and painting. A culinary enthusiast, she enjoyed cooking and experimenting with new recipes. Above all, Lulubell’s greatest joy was the time she spent with her cherished family and doting on her grandchildren.

Lulubell’s legacy of love and laughter is carried on by her devoted husband, Merwin Koch of Maquoketa, IA; her children, Brenda (Gary) Sanger of Maquoketa, IA, Jeanette (Joe) Cavanagh of Delmar, IA, Denise Koch of Cedar Rapids, IA, Darrell (Melissa) Koch of Elwood, IA, and Dean (Amanda) Koch of Baldwin, IA. Her twin sister, Bonnabell Creger of Baldwin, IA, also survives her. She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish her memory, as will numerous nieces and nephews.

Lulubell was preceded in death by her parents and by her 5 brothers and 5 sisters.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, March 16, 2024, at First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 P.M., Friday, March 15, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Miles, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County, or First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

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

Judy A. Esser

Judy A. Esser, 83, of Dubuque was welcomed into the arms of the Lord on March 10, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

A private family service is going to be held for Judy. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque is assisting the family.

Judy was born in Dubuque on December 24, 1940, the daughter of Leo and Margaret (Fortman) Sullivan. She married Ed Esser on January 10, 1959, and they recently celebrated 65 years of marriage together.

Judy loved being a wife and mother. She poured her whole heart and soul into every one of her children. She made sure they all knew who Jesus was as she did. She touched many lives in that way and did whatever she could to serve the church community. Judy will be best remembered for her gift of giving and talent for cooking. She always made sure our favorite recipes were prepared for gatherings and no one left without a carefully prepared leftover package. She loved animals and was often accused of over feeding the family dogs. Judy will be remembered by her grandchildren for her famous root beer floats.

She is survived by her husband, Ed; children, Jeff (Jayne) Esser, Greg Esser, Michele (Tim) Leick, Scott Esser, Mick (Paula) Esser and Eric (Kym) Esser; 10 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; brothers, Gene Sullivan, Sam (LaVonne) Sullivan; sisters, Ginger Bower and Sandy (Gary) Grover.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather Jim Robbins; brothers, John and Mickey Sullivan; and sisters, Joyce and Suzanne.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to the funeral home in care of the Esser family.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Doctors, nurses, and staff of the 5th floor medical/surgical unit at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Barbara Cook

Barbara Cook, 77, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, March 7, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Visitation will be from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a Memorial Service held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday. Deacon Bill Biver will officiate.

Barbara was born February 2, 1947 in Dubuque, the daughter of Elmer and Hattie (Schmid) Riniker and grew up in Durango.

When her three boys were very young, Barbara ran an in-home daycare while living in Idaho. After returning to Dubuque, Barbara went on to earn her BA in Special Education from the University of Dubuque. She taught special education and worked at ARC. Her clients were very special to her, and she maintained relationships with many of them even after she left the field.

Barbara’s second career was real estate, along with her second husband Ken, she worked in realty in the Dubuque area for over 20 years.

Barbara enjoyed traveling to Arizona in the winter, and was a fantastic hostess. She loved riding her horse, Spirit, and enjoyed taking her grandkids to feed him apples and carrots. Barbara lived to be a grandmother, and was the best grandma possible.

Barbara was an amazing and prolific gardener. No job was too big for her, including hand digging  her own pond. Creating beautiful gardens wherever she lived was a passion.

Barbara is survived by her three sons, Parrish (Jennifer) Cluff, of Phoenix, AZ, Jason (Donna) Cluff, of Dubuque, and Brian Cluff, of Dubuque; her step-daughter, Tanya (Marty) Maiers, of Dubuque; her step-son, Tom (Heather) Cook, of Las Vegas, NV; her grandchildren, Lana and Shayna, Jordan and Adam, and Tanner and Tate; two sisters, Donna (Don) Schiers, of Colorado, and Kathy Keil, of Georgia; and her former husband, Ken Cook, of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister in infancy, Judith Ann Riniker; and her brother-in-law, Ken Keil. 

Todd Shellhorn

Todd “Roundy” Shellhorn, 52, of Galena, IL, passed away Saturday, March 9, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

A celebration of life will be held at Noon, Thursday, March 14, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may call after 10:00 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born September 12, 1971, in Galena, the son of the late Thomas J. and Lynn M. (Benson) Shellhorn.

Todd graduated from Galena High School, where he played football for all four years. He attended Rock Valley College in 1994. Todd obtained a bachelor’s in respiratory care at Independence University. He was employed at Park Strathmore as a Respiratory Therapist. It was during this time that Todd obtained his CDL as an over-the-road truck driver and changed careers to drive cross country.  Todd returned to his career as a Respiratory Therapist at OSF Saint Anthony Hospital, Rockford, IL. Todd advanced his career at OSF Saint Anthony and was the clinical educator, where he taught and influenced the careers and lives of many RRT students.

While the country was battling COVID-19 and its effects in 2020, Todd was featured in a local TV news segment on local healthcare workers who shared their journey of dealing with the frontline battle of COVID-19. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish and hunt and, most recently, had taken up the art of fly fishing.

He is survived by his two children, Kelsey and Reid Shellhorn; his mother, Lynn of Galena; three siblings, Scott (Amber) Shellhorn, Heather (Dan) Steines, and Denise (Mark) Cornille; his aunts and uncles; cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas J. Shellhorn, on December 25, 2015, and his grandparents, William “Sonny” and Harriet Shellhorn and David and Beatrice Benson.

Lynn and family wish to give a special thank you to everyone who came to visit Todd in the hospital and for the outstanding care and comfort provided by Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeremiah, Peggy, and Stephanie, OSF Pulmonary Group, along with his sister and brother-in-law, Heather and Dan Steines.

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

Jacob L. Brewster

Jacob Lee Brewster, 52, of Maquoketa, Iowa, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, passed away on March 9, 2024, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on December 27, 1971, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Wilbert Dale and Nancy Jo (Kallenberger) Brewster, Jacob’s life was a testament to his strength, work ethic, and love for his family.

Jacob’s early years were spent in the nurturing environment of Maquoketa schools, where he laid the foundation for a life of dedication and hard work. On June 20, 2009, he united in marriage with Angela Kay Hughes, and together they built a life filled with love and mutual respect in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Jacob’s career was as diverse as it was long-standing. Starting as a young man working for Lon Myatt on the farm, he developed a deep appreciation for agriculture. He later joined Hoof Products and Maquoketa Lumber Company, where he honed his skills and work ethic. Jacob dedicated nearly 15 years to the Pacific Coast Feather Company until its closure. In the last four years of his life, he was a valued employee at Dittmer Recycling, where his commitment and reliability were greatly appreciated.

Beyond his professional life, Jacob was a man of many interests. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as doing chores on the farm he rented, hunting, and camping with his brother. Mowing yards was not just a task for Jacob but an activity he genuinely enjoyed. He was an active participant in bowling leagues, where his competitive spirit and camaraderie shone through. His creative side was expressed through cross-stitching, and he had a passion for capturing the beauty of nature through his photography, especially wildlife.

Jacob’s greatest joy, however, was his family. Survivors include his wife Angela Brewster of Maquoketa, IA; children, Sasha (Tyler) Johnson of Maquoketa, IA, Cody Brewster of Colona, IL, James Weimerskirch of Clarence, IA, Dalton Brewster of Platteville, WI, Nate Weimerskirch of Miles, IA, Logan (Brianna McDonald) Brewster of Bettendorf, IA, Christian Brewster of Marion, IA, Brittany Clark of Maquoketa, IA, and Victoria (Jacob Redling) Brewster of Maquoketa, IA; 7 grandchildren whom brought him immense joy; his mother, Nancy Brewster of Baldwin, IA; sisters, Alice (Ron) Holland of Rockwell, IA, Wilma (Aaron) Patterson of Clinton, IA, Wanda (George) Miller of Ft. Worth, TX, Kathy (Ted) Howell of Canton, IA, and Celeste (Ben) Cunningham of Sioux City, IA; and brothers, Paul Brewster of Sac City, IA, Wilbert (Shannon) Brewster of Wheatland, IA, Eddie (Lois) Brewster of Davenport, IA, Mike (Kim) Brewster of Davenport, IA, and Danny Brewster of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, his father Wilbert Dale Brewster, and his beloved niece Lindsey Renee Brewster.

A private graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 2 to 5 P.M., Monday, March 18, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites will be accorded following the visitation.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.

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

Brittany J. Lansing

Brittany Jean “Burl” Lansing, 33, of New Vienna, Iowa passed away Sunday, March 10, 2024, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa after a courageous, 10 year battle with metastatic melanoma.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, March 18, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate with Rev. John Haugen concelebrating.

Brittany was born on March 19, 1990, in  Manchester, Iowa, the daughter of Jeff Vorwald “Burly” and Brenda (Steinfadt) Vorwald.  She was a 2008 graduate of Edgewood-Colesburg High School, obtained a business administration degree and was a CSR/Agent at Community Insurance of Iowa in Edgewood, Iowa.  Brittany married Josh Lansing on October 28, 2017 in Edgewood, Iowa. In 2018, they welcomed their loving daughter and light of their life, Lanie Jean. Together, they fulfilled their dream, and moved to the Lansing family farm in 2022.

Brittany was a joy to be around and had an infectious smile. She always had the answers to any question; that’s why her friends called her “Google”. Brittany’s greatest joy was spending time with her daughter, Lanie, and her 2 Muskateers. She will be dearly missed by her loving family and many friends.

Survivors include her husband, Josh, and daughter, Lanie Lansing, her parents, Burly Vorwald and Brenda Vorwald, both of Edgewood; sister, Heather (James) Rochford of Edgewood; parents-in-law, Randy and LuAnn Lansing of New Vienna, in-laws: Jason Lansing of Greeley, Amy (Seve) Rodriguez of Center Point, Adam Lansing of Farley; nieces and nephews: Lexi and Ben Ernst, Payton, Preston, Parker, Pryce Rochford, Zach and Harper Lansing, Alyssa, Addison, Tate Rodriguez; two great-nephews: Nolan and Daxton Braden; several aunts and uncles; and the remaining 2 Muskateers: Kristy Meese and Nikki Funke “Goob”.

She was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Richard Steinfadt and Merla Groth Steinfadt Lehmann, paternal grandparents, Bob and Germaine Vorwald; uncle and godfather, Mike Vorwald.

The Lansing family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to assist with Lanie’s future education.

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.

Tanner D. Brundage

Tanner David Brundage, age 25, of Blue Grass, Iowa, and formerly of Andrew, DeWitt, and Davenport, Iowa, passed away on March 9, 2024. Tanner was a beloved and cherished son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, whose vibrant spirit and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Tanner David Brundage was born on March 24, 1998, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Michael David and Nicole Marie (Brundage) Fisher.  His early education took place in DeWitt, where he graduated from DeWitt Community High School in 2016. He went on to complete a rigorous 5-year NECA-IBEW Journeyman Apprenticeship Training Course to earn his Journeyman Electrician’s card, which he achieved in 2023 among the program’s top graduates.

Tanner’s work ethic was evident from high school through his career as an electrician. He began detasseling corn at 14 years old and seemingly worked every day thereafter, whether it was serving snacks at the Clinton LumberKings concession stand or sandwiches at Hungry Hobo or hanging drywall. After graduation, he honed his skills in the construction industry with Schueller and Son’s Construction, Quality Construction Services, and Seiffert Building Supplies. In 2018, Tanner proudly joined the IBEW Local #145, where he worked until present. Through the IBEW, Tanner worked on electrical projects at notable commercial and industrial sites, such as the Quad City International Airport and the Rock Island Arsenal.

Tanner’s interests were diverse and fulfilling. He was an ardent and dedicated supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes, holding season tickets for the home football games and traveling to the Hawkeyes’ bowl games. Tanner loved sports, having played baseball and basketball in his youth. He was also a skilled carpenter. Tanner’s finished projects reliably showcased his meticulous and careful nature. His competitive spirit shone through as a member of the Bettendorf Merchant’s Bowling League, enjoying the camaraderie of his teammates and friends. Tanner’s spirit, heart, and sense of humor always shone through during the time he enjoyed spending with friends and family.

He was confirmed at and a member of Grace Lutheran Church in DeWitt.

Those left to honor his memory include his parents, Nicole Fisher of Eldridge, IA, and Michael Fisher of Maquoketa, IA; brothers, Logan Brundage of Des Moines, IA, and Caleb Fisher of Maquoketa, IA; paternal grandparents, Ruth and Tim Grover of Miles, IA, and Francis and Vicki Fisher of Lowden, IA; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Harold and Garnett Brundage, as well as maternal aunts and uncles.

A celebration of Tanner’s life will be held at 12:00 P.M., Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the funeral home.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Tanner D. Brundage memorial fund has been established.

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

Craig W. Burken

Craig W. Burken, 63, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, March 9, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.  Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, March 14, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Vigil Service will begin at 3:30 pm, Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue with visitation to follow until 7:00 pm, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am prior to Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Burial will be in Sugar Creek Cemetery.

Craig was born, October 6, 1960, the son of Edward and Arletta (Lovell) Burken.  He graduated from Northeast High School.  He was raised on the family farm in Sugar Creek and farmed for many years.  Craig then owned and operated American Welding for 10 years and then taught welding for Clinton Community College at Maquoketa High School mentoring many students over the years until his health lead to his retiring.  He was proud of his boys and cherished time with his family and especially his grandchildren.  He married Angela Griebel-Weber on March 12, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Craig enjoyed tinkering and trail rides with his horses.  He was active in the CEW Community and a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.

Survivors include his wife, Angela; sons, Matt (Katie) Burken, and Adam (Krystal) Burken; step-son, Reese (Molly) Frohling; grandchildren, Ben, Emma, Beau, Aubrey, Koleman, Gunnar, Lawrence, and Tate; siblings, Kevin (Jackie) Burken, Brian (Elaine) Burken, Roger (Mary) Burken, Linda Lamp, Donna (David) Hotchkiss, Joyce (JP) Rogis, and Diane (Pat) Mullin; his mother in-law, Mary Lou (Ernst) Griebel; sisters in-law, Patsy Burken and Sharon Burken, and a brother in-law, Bruce (Donna) Griebel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Craig was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Daryl Burken, Merle Burken, Allan (Carline) Burken, Denis (Mary) Burken; a brother in-law, LeRoy Lamp; his father in-law, Lawrence Griebel, Jr.; and a godson, Broc Burken.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or Craig W. Burken Memorial Scholarship Fund.

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

Lillian M. Wirtz

Lillian M. Wirtz, age 89, passed away on March 7, 2024.  A former resident of Old Mill Creek, Illinois, Lillian resided in Elizabeth Township since April 2000.

Lillian graduated from Zion-Benton Township High School in 1952 and began working for the U.S. Navy Department, Great Lakes, IL.  In January 1959 she married Jack Wirtz of McHenry, IL who farmed in the Volo, IL area.

Lillian returned to work after 17 years of homemaking and farming with Jack.  She worked for the U.S. Agriculture Department (ASCS) and Lake County Soil & Water Conservation District, Grayslake, IL.  She also worked for the U.S. Postal Service in Gurnee, IL.  Lillian retired in 1999 after 14 years with the Statewide Insurance Company, Waukegan, IL. before moving to Jo Daviess County.

Lillian was born on August 19, 1934, to Frederick August and Anna Margarete (Holler) Neubert in Waukegan, IL.  She was a member of the Millburn Congregational United Church of Christ.

She enjoyed reading, gardening, and was skilled at a lot of crafts: pottery, paper hanging, chair caning, sewing, stained glass and oil painting just to name a few.  Lillian also loved birds, trees, flowers and all things related to nature.  She was the Village Clerk for the Village of Old Mill Creek, Illinois for 12 years.

Lillian was preceded in death by her parents.  Surviving are her husband, Jack and three children: Frederick Wm. (Cathy) Wirtz, Island Park, New York; Linnea Marie Wirtz, Elizabeth, Illinois; and Margaret Ann (Robert) Wirtz-Schuster, Antioch, Illinois.  Also surviving are 5 grandchildren: William Wirtz, Timothy Wirtz, Emily Wirtz, Jacquelyn (Scott) Grimon and Anna (Matthew) Roche; and 5 great-grandchildren: Oliver Grimon, Lydia Grimon, Maisie Grimon, Jackson Rindahl, and Audrey Roche.

To honor Lillian’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date.  Online condolences for Lillian’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

John and Donelle Kilburg

John L. Kilburg, 74, and Donelle J. Kilburg, 70, of Spragueville, Iowa, a devoted couple whose love and kindness touched many hearts, passed away together on March 6, 2024. John experienced a medical emergency, while Donelle’s passing followed due to injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Highway 13 and Travis Road in Marion, Iowa.

A Gathering of Family and Friends Celebrating John and Donelle’s life will be held from 2 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  A memorial mass with spreading of ashes will be held at a future date this summer.

John Larry Kilburg was born on August 31, 1949 in Clinton, Iowa, to Raymond John and Rita Mary (Tebbe) Kilburg.  His early life was marked by dedication and service. A proud 1967 graduate of Preston High School, he soon answered the call of duty by enlisting in the U.S. Army. His time in the military was distinguished by an honorable discharge. After his service, John found love and started a family with Kathy Yaddof in 1975, welcoming two children, Megan, and Brant, into the world. Although their marriage ended in divorce, John’s journey led him to Donelle Streets Heneke, whom he met through her employment at the ASCS office.  They were married on December 27, 1991, in Maquoketa, Iowa, building a loving blended family that stood the test of time for 32 years.

John’s professional life was as grounded as he was, with his roots deeply entrenched in the soil of his farm. A lifelong farmer, he also served the Illinois Fish and Wildlife Service as a maintenance worker from 1994 until his well-deserved retirement in 2015. His work ethic was unmatched, as evidenced by his over 30-year tenure with the B & G Auction House, where he worked part-time. Even in retirement, John’s passion for agriculture never waned, as he continued to work for Cornelius Seed Corn and lent his expertise to various local farmers.

The simple pleasures in life brought John the greatest joy. He relished the time spent outdoors, tending to his farm, and taking his grandchildren for joyful Kubota rides. His love for antiquing and attending auctions was only matched by the joy he found in socializing and cherishing moments with friends and family. John’s presence was a comforting constant at the farm, where he and the “two cats” were familiar fixtures.

John’s legacy is carried on by his loving children: Megan (Jeff) Rettray of Bloomfield Hills, MI, Brant Kilburg of San Diego, CA, Erich Heneke of Rochester, MN, and Alycia (Steve) Benischek of Tiffin, IA. His memory will be treasured by his seven grandchildren: Liam, Emerson, Hadley, Brinley, Kennady, Kingston, and Ryan, who will miss their grandfather’s warmth and wisdom. He is also survived by his sisters, Jane Bormann of Preston, IA, and Ruth (Robert) Steines of Spragueville, IA; his brothers, Richard (Rhonda) Kilburg of FL, Dennis (Kathy) Kilburg of Altoona, IA, and Mike (Debbie) Kilburg of DeWitt, IA; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents and his brother-in-law, Verlyn Bormann.

Donelle Jean Streets was born on November 19, 1953 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Donald and Pauline (Miller) Streets.  She was a 1972 graduate of Maquoketa High School, and her commitment to her community was evident early on. Her marriage to John L. Kilburg on December 27, 1991, in Maquoketa, whom she met through her employment, brought together a blended family that became a cornerstone of her life. Together, they nurtured a home filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support.

Donelle’s professional life was marked by over three decades of dedicated service as the chief program technician for the Jackson County ASCS Office, now known as the Farm Service Agency. She retired in 2010, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to the agricultural community she served so diligently. Her work ethic was further showcased through her part-time role at B & G Auction House.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Donelle’s passions were manifold. She had a creative spirit, often found immersed in crafts and reading. Her love for the outdoors was shared with John on the farm, a place where they both found great joy and solace. Donelle also accompanied John on his work trips, making memories together.  Yet, it was her role as a grandmother that Donelle cherished most deeply. She leaves behind a legacy of love and joy in her seven grandchildren.

Donelle’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by her children, Erich Heneke of Rochester, MN, Alycia (Steve) Benischek of Tiffin, IA, Megan (Jeff) Rettray of Bloomfield Hills, MI, and Brant Kilburg of San Diego, CA. Her seven grandchildren: Hadley, Brinley, Kennady, Kingston, Ryan, Liam, and Emerson. Each of them was a source of immense pride and happiness.  She is also survived by her in-laws, Jane Bormann of Preston, IA, Ruth (Robert) Steines of Spragueville, IA, Richard (Rhonda) Kilburg of FL, Dennis (Kathy) Kilburg of Altoona, IA, and Mike (Debbie) Kilburg of DeWitt, IA; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Drew Streets.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a John L. and Donelle J. Kilburg memorial fund has been established.

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

Terry J. Meyer

Terry J. Meyer, 59 of Dyersville passed away Thursday, March 7, 2024, as the result of an automobile accident east of Earlville.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9-10 am Monday prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 18, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Terry was born on June 27, 1964, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Loras and Dorothy (Barth) Meyer.  He married Vicki Sellner on April 16, 1988, in Dyersville, Iowa.  Terry’s real passion was farming although he worked at the Dyersville Sales Company for about 15 years, Farmer Shipping for about 20 years and transitioned to EIMCO as a machinist.  In whatever spare time he could muster he loved fishing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren.  Terry could fix most everything and he was especially talented at woodworking.

Survivors include his loving wife, Vicki; children: Dr. Daniel (Samantha) Meyer of Dyersville and Michael (Ashley) Meyer of Anamosa;  grandchildren: Mason, Leo, Mabel, Dottie, Dax, and Knox; siblings: Duane (Kari) Meyer of Holy Cross, Diane (Doug) Biddick of Camdenton, MO, and Karen (Brian) Kutsch of Farley; mother-in-law, Donna Sellner of Earlville; in-laws: Cindy (Mark) Mensen, Deb (Ron) Mensen, Gary (Karelene) Sellner, and Larry (LouAnn) Sellner, all of Earlville, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law, Irvin Sellner, and a nephew, Austen Kutsch.

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.

Steven J. Schieltz

Steven “Butch” J. Schieltz, 64, of Luxemburg, Iowa passed away Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at Guttenberg Municipal Hospital in Guttenberg, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9 – 9:45 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 15, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church with burial at a later date in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Butch was born on March 19, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Elmer and Germaine (Steffen) Schieltz.

He enjoyed his covetted corvette and snowmobiling with Gary and friends. He especially enjoyed the fishing trips to the Lake of the Woods in Canada with friends and family. He was actively involved with Schieltz Construction for over 40 years.

Survivors include his father, Elmer; siblings: Gary Schieltz of Luxemburg, Jean Kremer of Dyersville, Patricia (Kevin) Frericks of Dyersville; nieces and nephews: Kristopher Kremer, Karee Kremer, Ryan (Rebecca) Kremer, Toby Frericks, Tracy Frericks; great-nieces and nephews: Klara Stalkfleet, and  Brody, Braxton, Bryce Kremer.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Germaine; and a brother-in-law, Jim Kremer.

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.

Thomas G. Duddeck

Thomas G. Duddeck, 65, of Dubuque, died Friday, March 8, 2024, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Tom will be 10:00 am Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Sister Margaret Ann Kramer PBVM officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Tom was born October 14, 1958, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Gerhard and Ruth Proetel Duddeck. On April 11, 1980, he married Deborah A. Brekke at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

He was a 1977 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

Tom worked in retail for over 40 years, including Randall’s, Econo Foods, and Walmart.  He worked at Bodine Electric until his retirement in October of 2023.

He was a member of the Walleye Club and an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. He loved hunting with his son, spending time with the kids and grandkids, and tending to his yard and garden. Most of all, Tom loved to cook and host parties where no one left hungry.

Survivors include his wife, Deb; one daughter, Melissa (Brad) Hahlen of Farley, IA; two sons, Jeremy Duddeck and Chris (Brittany) Duddeck, both of Farley, IA; four grandchildren, Abbie, Paige, Molly, and Parker; his father, Gerhard of Dubuque; and one sister, Sandi Duddeck of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his mother and one sister, Susan Holdridge

The family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire Department’s EMS and the Dubuque Police Department, and their neighbor Brian Jobgen.

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

Janice O. Welp

Janice O. (Scott) Welp, 84, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Dickeyville and Shullsburg, WI, passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at Ahva Living Center in East Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Monday, March 11, 2024, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dickeyville, with Fr. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 2 – 5 p.m. on Sunday and from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Monday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be said at 1:45 p.m. Sunday.

Janice was born on February 8, 1940 near Shullsburg, WI, the daughter of George and Clara (Weiskircher) Scott. She was a graduate of Shullsburg High School, the class of 1959.

Janice was united in marriage to Thomas J. Welp on July 31, 1965 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Shullsburg. He preceded her in death on August 19, 2019.

She was formerly employed at the Shullsburg High School, Dubuque Greyhound Park and together with Tom established and operated the 19th Hole in East Dubuque. Janice enjoyed bowling and bus trips to the various Casinos. Janice was an avid sports fan, she loved cheering on all of her favorite teams, ranging from all local high school sports teams, the Green Bay Packers, the Chicago Cubs and any team who played the Chicago Bears.  She was a fiercly protective mother, grandma, aunt and friend.  She loved to laugh, play cards and talk on the phone to all her family and friends.  She enjoyed being a grandma and was especially thrilled to be a Great Grandma. She submerged herself in all her grandchildren’s activities, attending whenever it was possible.  She was always more interested in how everyone else was doing, and never wanted to talk about herself.  Mom could talk to anyone and attempted to befriend everyone she met.

Surviving are three children, Brett (Rhonda) Welp of East Dubuque, Kevin (friend Michaeline) Welp of Midland, Michigan, and Susan Hoppman of Green Bay, WI, a daughter in law, Ann (Hilby) Welp of East Dubuque; a son-in-law Shannon Hoppman; five grandchildren, Brian Welp, Jenna (Brandon) Thein, Jaelyn Hoppman, Braylie Hoppman and Layna Hoppman; a great-grandson Aiden Thein; her brother, Ray (Susie) Scott of Dubuque, IA; her in-laws, Jerry Cullen, Platteville, WI, Joyce (Ed) Kuhle of Menominee, IL, Rita (Jim) Schlegel of Dubuque, IA, Glen (Philly) Welp of Cuba City, WI, Gail Welp of Dubuque, IA, Paul (Sara) Welp of Spring Green, WI, Greg (Diane) Welp of East Dubuque, and Linda Welp of Donahue, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Tom, a son Dan Welp, five sisters, Betty, Dolores, Kathleen, Joyce and Shirley and a brother, Elmer Scott, in-laws, Pat Cullen, Bud (Esther) Welp, Jim Welp, Arlene Smothers, Mary Merfeld, Marilyn Welp and Russell Welp.

The family would like to thank the staff at Ahva Living Center, especially Ann May for providing Janice with exceptional care, and making her feel loved each day.  We would also like to thank her daughter-in-law Ann for always helping mom with anything she needed with a smile and kindness, for which Janice was extremely grateful.

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

Daniel M. Didesch

Daniel M. “Dan” Didesch, 64, of Menominee, IL, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center after suffering a heart attack.

There will be no public visitation. A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date to be announced. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.

Dan was born on June 22, 1959, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert L. and Julianna M. (Kramer) Didesch. He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, the class of 1977.

Dan was united in marriage to Deb Schneider on May 27, 1983, at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee. He was formerly employed at Honeywell Manufacturing in Galena. Dan was a member of Nativity BVM Parish.

Dan loved golfing, watching his grand kids play sports, and spending time with family and friends. Dedicated many of his younger years coaching  little league baseball and enjoying every minute watching his own boys playing every sport possible.

Surviving is his wife Deb; three sons, Eric (Stephanie Stuckey) Didesch and their children, Drake, Declynn and Delcy of Dakota, IL, Scott Didesch and children, Courtney and Kiley of Menominee, IL, and Brian (Lara Temperly) Didesch of Freeport, IL, his brother, Robert (Deb) Didesch of Asbury, IA, and sister, Molly (Dennis) Beidler of Dubuque, nieces and nephews; his brothers-in-law, Jim Schneider of Menominee and John (Emily) Schneider of Hazel Green, WI, his sisters-in-law, Ann (Nick) Herbst of Mapleton, IL, Joan (Bill) Runde of Cuba City, WI, Bev (Tim) Faber of Marion, IA, and Lisa (Bryan) Bowman of East Dubuque, IL.

Deb and family wish to express sincere thanks to members of the Galena Area Ambulance, East Dubuque Ambulance, Menominee-Dunleith Fire Dept, Mercy One Cath Lab and Mercy One ICU for the wonderful care provided to Dan and his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jack and Jean Schneider.

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