Obituaries Archive

Geneva M. Block

Geneva Marie (Craugh) Block, 97, passed away on Thursday evening, April 10, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Steve Garner officiating. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart.  Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is in charge of arrangements.

Geneva “Gen” was born November 28, 1927, in Lancaster, WI, the daughter of William and Gertrude (Schiffman) Craugh.  She grew up on a farm just outside of Dickeyville, WI, and graduated from Potosi High School.  After graduating, she moved to Dubuque where she met her husband, Walter Block, while working at Flexsteel Furniture.  Geneva and Walter were married November 28th, 1950, at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville.  Their reception was held on the family farm. He preceded her in death March 15, 1982.

Gen was a dedicated mother and homemaker to her three children, Connie, Greg and Jane.  She also worked at several Dubuque companies, including Farley & Loetcher and Tri-State Trucking. She retired in 1998. She was a member of the American Business Women’s Assoc. and enjoyed many activities and friendships through this organization.

Gen’s favorite pastime was working in her yard and with her flowers. She spent countless hours helping her family with projects and enjoying her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Christmas time always meant cashew cookies, the family favorite.

Geneva is survived by her daughter, Connie Crippes (Kieler, WI) and her family, Laura Hudson, (Dubuque) Jill Crippes and Kimberly (Joe) Schmelz (Belmont, WI). Her son, Greg (Jackie) Block of Bagley, WI and their children, Jenny (Doug) Adrian (Maple Lake, MN) and David Block (Greenley, CO), Andrea Zenz (Lancaster) and Shawn (Chrissy) Raisbeck (Lancaster), son-in-law Gary and his two children, Emily (Iowa City, IA) and Gary Wm. (Salt Lake City, Utah). Her legacy also includes thirteen great-grandchildren, and two great, great-grandsons. She is also survived by her sister, Camilla McDonald (Darlington, WI).

She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter, her daughter, Jane Urban, her brother, Carl Craugh, her sister, Velma Dechow and her son-in-law, Ray Crippes.

In Lieu of flowers, a Geneva Block Memorial Fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank Stonehill Health Center for their compassionate and loving care; Hospice of Dubuque and Fr. Jeff Frieden of Holy Spirit Parish for assisting the family.

Connie K. Hankemeier

Connie K. Hankemeier, 72, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday evening, April 8, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Connie Kay Hankemeier was born on June 6, 1952 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Robert Cecil and Velma A. (Yaddof) Hankemeier.  She was a proud graduate of Andrew Community High School, class of 1970. She furthered her education at Sawyer College in Davenport, where she received business training that would serve her well throughout her career. Connie dedicated over 49 years of service to the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa, where she worked in various capacities. Starting in the dietary department, she worked her way up to the business side of operations, retiring in May of 2021.

Connie’s interests were as varied as they were heartfelt. In her younger days, she enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. She had a passion for baking and watching soap operas and westerns on television. Connie’s love for photography led her to capture countless memories with her camera, and she found joy in sharing those moments with others.  She also enjoyed listening to KMAQ radio in Maquoketa and was known for often giving out lottery tickets. An avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan, Connie never missed a chance to cheer on her team.  She also had a special place in her heart for animals and birds, appreciating the simple beauty of nature. Her love for jewelry was matched only by her love for sending Christmas cards, complete with pictures and recipes, to keep in touch with those she cared about. She enjoyed shopping and going to garage sales with her sisters, andrelished going out to eat with friends and valued the time spent with family at gatherings and reunions, where her presence was a source of happiness and comfort.

Those left to honor her memory include siblings, Karen (Mark) Gombert of Maquoketa, IA, Carol (Jim) Reafsnider of Goose Lake, IA and Rodney Hankemeier of Maquoketa, IA; niece and nephews, Matthew Gombert, Jessa (Justin) McGrath and Travis Reafsnider; great-niece, Maren McGrath; and numerous cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

The family would like to especially thank the Doctors and Nurses on 2nd Floor at Mercy in Dubuque, the staff at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center, and the staff at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made the Jackson County Humane Society.

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

John A. McCray

John A. McCray, a cherished husband, father, godfather, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on April 9, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. Born on June 25, 1946, in Clinton, Iowa, John was the son of John Wesley and Frances (O’Connors) McCray.

After graduating from Clinton High School, he enlisted and served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. His service was marked by honor and courage, earning him an honorable discharge. Upon returning to civilian life, John found love with Barbara Volesky, and they were united in marriage on October 28, 1972, in Newhall, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with love and raised two daughters, Christina and Jennifer.

After his military service, he began his career with Bob Johnson Trucking and later worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa. He dedicated 22 years to Golden Sun Feeds in Maquoketa before taking on a role that allowed him to connect with his community as a bus driver for the Regional Transit Authority. After a decade of service, he retired but continued to share his time and skills, working part-time as a shuttle service delivery driver for Brad Deery Motors in Maquoketa until his official retirement in the fall of 2024.

Beyond his professional life, John was a member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether, Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, and the Friends of the Hurstville Interpretive Center.

John’s love for the outdoors was evident to all who knew him. He found joy in fishing on the river, camping under the stars, hunting, and mushroom hunting. He also enjoyed gardening, and he could often be found meticulously mowing his lawn.

Those left to honor John’s memory include his devoted wife, Barbara McCray of Maquoketa, IA; his daughters, Christina (Tim) Hennings of Bettendorf, IA, and Jennifer (Dave) DeWitt of Maquoketa, IA; his godson, Eric (Tracy) Bormann of Morrison, IL; his grandchildren, Jaden, Cali, and Levi; his step-grandchildren, Joseph Hennings, and Lynsey (Isaac) Kaufman; and his sister, Charlin (Fred) Nolan of Sterling, IL. His life was enriched by the presence of many nieces and nephews. John was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers George and Danny Simms, and his sisters Penny Geerts, Dorothy Bormann, and Marie Kirchner.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa, with military honors.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Hurstville Interpretive Center.

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

Joan M. Koerperich

Joan Marie Koerperich, 93, of Dubuque, died Friday, April 11, 2025, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Joan will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Joan was born on September 1, 1931, in Bankston, IA, the daughter of Elmer M. and Mary L. (Daly) Wolf. On June 21, 1950, she married Vincent J. Koerperich at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston, IA. He preceded her in death on December 30, 2005.

Joan graduated from St. Clement High School in Bankston, IA. She was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

Joan and Vincent enjoyed taking the kids on family vacations across the United States; her favorite being their trip to Hawaii, she always wanted to go back. After the children were grown, she and Vincent loved going to see the Grand Ole Opry. Joan enjoyed gardening, baking, doing word puzzles, sewing, and taking care of her children and grandchildren. Having family around made her most happy, especially Sunday family dinners, holidays, and Tuesday after school visits with Emmett and Eliza.

Survivors include her three children, Kevin (Rose Anne) Koerperich of Dubuque, Dianne (Hugh) Lenane of Asbury, and Sharon Gerdemann of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Shane (Ali) Lenane, Holly (Baldemar) Roa, Chase Strub, Heather (Keith) Kemler, Patrick (fiancé, Kathleen) Lenane, and Calvin (Claire) Koerperich; 13 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild on the way in July; five sisters, Maryvena Foust, Darleen Ellerbach, Helen Kemp, Rita Berg, and Martha Mills; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Angie (Dale) Soppe; two brothers, Daniel (Helen) and Paul Wolf; siblings-in-law, Carlos Foust and Jerry Ellerbach; and a son-in-law, Michael Hurley.

A memorial has been established.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Angela, Kelly, and Faith with Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Steffen and Dr. Janes, Ennoble Rehab, and the MercyOne Cardiac Unit for all of their compassionate care.

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

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

Amber L. Rodas

Amber Lynn Rodas, 43, of Dubuque, passed away in the comfort of her home surrounded by family on April 10, 2025.

Visitation for Amber will be Friday, April 18th, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Private family burial will be held at a later date in Little Port.

Amber was born on September 15, 1981. She lived in Dubuque all her life where she met her wonderful and loving husband, Eric Rodas. They were married on September 2, 2006, and enjoyed their life with their three children. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother.

She enjoyed spending time with her husband, children and grandchildren. She loved taking road trips with no destination in sight. Amber loved to go to antique stores, riding on the motorcycle on Sundays, watching her son play lacrosse, and watching her shows.

She is survived by her husband, Eric Rodas; her children, Adalyn Klein, Elizabeth Rodas, Wyatt Rodas; her grandchildren, Evelyn Oberbroeckling, Colton Oberbroeckling and one on the way; her mother-in-law, Janis Rodas; and her parents, Kim Folsom and Randy Sauser.

She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Dwight Rodas; her sister-in-law, Danielle Pape; her grandparents Mickey and Mimi Wong, Robert and Leona Sauser.

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, the nurses at Mercy Cancer Center Dubuque, and the doctors of Mercy Dubuque and the University of Iowa.

Allen J. Birch Jr.

Allen J. “Al” Birch Jr., age 69, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Al’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.Al was born on June 27, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Allen and Margaret (Scharff) Birch Sr.

Al attended Dubuque Senior High School before entering the work force.  He worked for Rite-Hite for 27 years, before retiring in 2008.  Al met his future wife, Tina Hanson, while they were still in high school.  It took some time for them to find their way to each other, but once they did, they were inseparable for 20 years.  The couple finally officially married on October 4, 2020, in Dubuque.  His faith in God was very strong.  Al always said he didn’t need a formal church or service, he spoke with God in his own personal own way.  He enjoyed working on and driving his classic cars and Harley Davidson motorcycles.  Al liked being outside surrounded by the beauty of nature, and he and Tina often went out walking together.  He loved jumping in the car and going for a ride, which often took him down by the Mississippi River.  Al looked forward to going fishing with his family and friends.  Al also enjoyed watching old time television shows and movies.  He was loving, loyal, kind-hearted and extremely caring.  Al was well liked by everyone he came in contact with, and always helped people when they needed him.  His family was always his main priority, and time spent with them brought him great joy.  It didn’t matter what they were doing, but if a cookout or bonfire was part of the planned activities for the day, Al was thrilled.  He truly made the world around him a better place.

Those left to cherish Al’s memory include

his loving wife,
Tina Birch, Dubuque, IA;

his daughter,
Heather (Daniel) Stoner, Portland, OR;

3 step-children,
Maria (Eric) Burdick, Battle Ground, WA,
Elisha Bennett, Battle Ground, WA
and Melissa Bennett, Portland, OR;

7 grandchildren;

his siblings,
Karen Wilson,
Tim Birch
and Molly Bradfield, all of Platteville, WI;

2 brothers-in-law,
Dan Bechen
and Kevin (Ellen) Hanson;

2 sisters-in-law,
Sharon Hanson
and Pam (Harold) Polivka;

several nieces and nephews;

and his beloved fur babies,
Snowflake and Chloe.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Shelley Bechen and Janet Genthe; and 2 brothers-in-law, Bruce Wilson and Keith Hanson.

Al’s family would like to thank the entire staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital for the outstanding care they provided for Al.  Also a special thanks to his step-daughter, Maria, and Al’s family, for their support and all of the time they have spent with him.

Cards and memorials in Al’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Allen Birch Jr. Family.

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

Rita L. Gavin

Rita L. Gavin, 98 of Cascade, Iowa passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at. St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade with burial in Calvary Cemetery.  Rev. Douglas Loecke will officiate.

Rita was born on August 5, 1926, at home in rural Otter Creek, Iowa, daughter of Thomas and Anna (Small) Dunne. She received her education in a one room school near her parents’ farm and at St. Lawrence School in Otter Creek.  On October 26, 1944, she married Oscar Gavin at St. Lawrence Church in Otter Creek.  Together they farmed in the rural Cascade area, raising nine children.  Oscar preceded her in death on March 31, 1978.  Rita cherished her Catholic faith, her family and her Irish heritage.

Survivors include her children: Thad (Linda) Gavin, Coralville, Corlas (Bob) Bildstein, Dubuque, Randy (Brenda) Gavin, Cascade, Clay (Diane) Gavin, North Liberty, Brian (fiancé Laura Boeckenstedt) Gavin, Manchester, DaRae (Kevin) Coughlin, Cross Plains, WI, and Amy Vorwald, Dyersville, grandchildren: Chris (Lin) Gavin, Lisa Gavin, Meghan Gavin, Brett (Katie) Bildstein, Brianne (Kent) Foulker, Kay (Aaron) Hornbrook, Jason Gavin, Nick Gavin, Erin (Travis) Foster, Jesse Gavin, Shane (Bree) Gavin, Andrew (Megan) Edwards-Coughlin, Cameron Coughlin, Tyler Vorwald, Riley (Erin) Vorwald, great-grandchildren: Dale Gavin, Izze Gavin, Kinzie Gavin, Brennan Gavin, Aimsley Gavin, Brooks Bildstein, Everett Bildstein, Amelia Foulker, Shawn Hornbrook, Leo Gavin, Eli Gavin, Carter Foster, Madison Foster, Rowan Gavin, Piper Gavin, Avery Edwards, Rory Vorwald, Fae Vorwald, great-great grandchild, Scarlett Gavin, and very special friends: Inge Taylor and Nick (Gabby) Taylor.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and sons: Rodney Gavin and Eric Gavin.

The family is extremely grateful to the nurses and staff at Accura Care Center, Sherry Kelchen ARNP, Rev. Mark Osterhaus, and Hospice of Dubuque staff, especially Kris, for the excellent care they gave to Rita.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

LaVonne L. Kueter

LaVonne L. (Scholtes) Kueter, 80, of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.  Funeral Mass 10:30 am, Monday, April 14, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Brian W. Bonney

Brian W. Bonney, 63, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at his home in Lost Nation.

Brian W. Bonney was born on November 14, 1961 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Harold and Rosemary (Kiesling) Bonney.  He was united in marriage to Jill Wirth on August 7, 1982, at the Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation.

Brian farmed for Duane Rutenbeck of Lost Nation in his younger years. He started driving semi’s first for Ray Hainstock on long hauls and hauling cattle in the area and out of state.  He then drove for Kinney Trucking of DeWitt hauling grain.  Brian also drove for Roger Kinney Trucking and for Crystal Creek Enterprises of Grand Mound.  If it was a Peterbilt Semi, he was in it.  Brian also had a passion for stock car racing.  He raced for many years at the Maquoketa Speedway and traveled to drive in many races around the state. Brian and his family traveled to many NASCAR races in Michigan, also seeing races at Talladega, Bristol and Kansas.  Brian also enjoyed going on side-by-side rides and could always be found tinkering in his garage, sometimes with a Busch Light.  He had a love of music, ranging from country and oldies to rock and roll.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife Jill Bonney of Lost Nation; his son Zach (Jordan) Bonney of Lost Nation; his siblings, Brad (Sandy) Bonney of Maquoketa, IA, Vicki Hulke of Oxford Junction, IA, and Brent Bonney of Dubuque, IA; a granddaughter, Brooklynn Hamilton, and a grandchild on the way; his mother-in-law, Barbara Wirth of Lost Nation; his sisters-in-law, Brenda Smith of Lost Nation, Joy (Bob) Beuthien of Ashland, MO, and Terri (Tom) Hovar of South Dakota, and Lisa Wirth of Lost Nation; a brother-in-law, Tim Wirth (Michelle) of Lost Nation; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Kevin and Kenneth Bonney; father-in-law Gerald Wirth; and brothers-in-law Lynn Smith and Lanny Hulke.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, April 14, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

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

Timothy H. Fuller

Timothy H. Fuller, 52, of Peosta, Iowa passed away after a sudden illness on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025, at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital.

Visitation for Tim will be on Monday, April 14th, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 15th at the funeral home. Private burial will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Tim was born on November 25th, 1972, in Galena, IL the son of Harold and Dorothy (Jones) Fuller. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and was recently employed with First Supply Company.

He was an avid football fan, especially a Green Bay Packer fan. He loved spending time with his children and watching movies with Emilee.

Tim was an outgoing and a true people person, he loved meeting new people. If you were fortunate enough to meet him, you quickly became his friend. He will be deeply missed, and his friendship will be cherished by so many.

He is survived by his three children: Paxton (fiancé Mariah), Ayden and Hailie. His fiancé Rozi “Rose Bud”, and her daughter Emilee; his mother Dorothy, his brother Adam and his faithful companion “Gabby” the dog.

Tim was preceded in death by his father Harold on September 10, 2024, and numerous other family members.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Finley ER staff and to Leonard Funeral Home for all their care and compassion they provided.

Dale J. Kenniker

Dale Joseph Kenniker, 60, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home with family and friends at his side on April 5, 2025.

No services will be held.

Dale was born February 22, 1965, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Kay and Jackie Kenniker.

He graduated Senior High School and soon became a mechanic and semi driver. He had a true passion for the road all of his life. He married Tina Block and they had three children. He enjoyed watching them grow, and his family was everything to him. In his free time, he enjoyed the casino and Shot Tower pizza. He loved making others laugh and would always try to scare those around him as a joke- BOO. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his mother, Jackie Kenniker; two brothers, David Kenniker and Dennis Kenniker; three children, Jacob (Amy) Kenniker, Joey (Jessica) Kenniker, and Steph Haupert; nine grandchildren; and four great-grand-children..

The family would like to extend a thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Hills and Dale’s, and the Dubuque Fire Department for the great care. An extra special thank you Shuree for the laughter and company.

Your shift is over driver, you can rest easy now.

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

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

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Terry J. LeConte

Terry J. LeConte, 53, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 7, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with Colon cancer

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Wake Service will begin at 12:45 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, with Monsignor Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Terry was born January 30th, 1972, to Leonard and Doris (Clemen) LeConte. He worked for LeConte Construction and farmed most of his life. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, camping, watching his kids’ sporting events and keeping his farm toys in pristine condition. His memory will never be forgotten by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife Bonnie of 28 years, his children Tyler (Emma), Paige (Collin) and Lexie LeConte, his parents Leonard and Doris, siblings Kevin, Kim (Steve) Tauke and Lynn (Craig) Kloft, mother-in-law Sue Bries, brother-in-law Jeff (Zelie) Bries and many nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was proceeded in death by his grandparents Albin and Melinda Clemen, Peter and Adeline LeConte and father-in-law Jerry Bries.

The family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and Tammi Noonan and all of the nurses that drew the short straw on his chemo days.

In lieu of flowers, a Terry LeConte Memorial Fund has been established.

Verda M. Pattison

Verda M. Pattison passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the home of her son David in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Verda Margaret Pattison was born on December 19, 1934 to Jesse and Mary Stroup, in Kennewick, Washington. Verda grew up in the small town of Weston in Eastern Oregon with her two brothers and four sisters. She graduated with honors from Weston Union High School after four busy years of club, sports, and leadership activities. She attended La Verne College in La Verne, California where she met Jim Pattison. They were married on January 27, 1956 and graduated together the following year. They were married for 64 years until Jim’s death in 2020.

Verda and Jim had four children. They resided in Mt. Baldy, California, while their children were young and Verda had a small clerical business. She filled in as a kindergarten teacher at the village school on a provisional teaching certificate and eventually relocated to the Palm Springs area where Verda taught elementary school for many years. She attained a Masters Degree, became a school site coordinator and retired after 30 years with the Palm Springs Unified School District.

She enjoyed her retirement in the desert, in Lynden, Washington and Dubuque, Iowa. Verda and Jim were active in Church and Missions for many years, volunteering with various congregations and Christian organizations supporting Missions around the world. She enjoyed crafting, reading and traveling.

She is survived by her three children sons David (Jane) of Grand Prairie, TX; Tim (Michelle) of Yuma, AZ and daughter Tina Jensen (Steven) of Dubuque, IA; eight grandchildren and one great- granddaughter; her brother Stanley Stroup; sisters Kathryn Hunter, Ellen Gilbert, Wilma (John) Leyendecker, and Rosalyn Stroup.

She was preceded in death by husband Jim, her brother, David Stroup and her son, Michael.

Richard D. Current

Richard Dean “Rich” Current, 82, of Maquoketa, Iowa, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Richard was born to James and Daisy (Wray) Current Sr., on April 23, 1942 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School, and married the love of his life, Shirley Kay Nabb, on June 30, 1963, in Maquoketa, Iowa.

In Oct of of 1966, he answered the call of service by joining the U.S. Army. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him numerous accolades, including a Purple Heart, reflecting his dedication and sacrifice for his country. Upon returning home, he and Shirley welcomed two children, Pamela and Cory, into the world, and nurtured a family that would be his pride and joy.

Rich’s work ethic was unparalleled, starting at Alcoa in Davenport before moving back to Maquoketa in 1976. There, he worked at C & N Automotive with his brother-in-law, Lloyd Nabb, before eventually retiring from WADY Industries. His professional life was marked by the same integrity and commitment that defined his military service.

Beyond his work and service, Rich was a man of many interests and an active member of his community. He was a familiar face at the Coronado Car Club in Maquoketa, a lifetime member of the Maquoketa VFW #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether, a former Boy Scout Leader, and a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge. His passion for stock car races was well-known, as was his love for playing cards and visiting the casino. However, it was his role as a volunteer that truly showcased his generous spirit, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Rich’s greatest joy was found in the time he spent with his family, particularly his three grandchildren, Micayla, Derek, and Rebekah and his nieces and nephews. His presence at family gatherings, his laughter during card games, and his wisdom shared during quiet moments will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Pamela (Marty) Eganhouse of Anamosa, IA, and Cory (Scarlet) Current of St. Louis, MO; his siblings, James Current Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, and Donna Said of Maquoketa, IA; his three grandchildren, Micayla (Bryce) Hettinger of Cedar Rapids, IA, Derek Eganhouse of Anamosa, IA, and Rebekah Stever of Chico, CA; and many loving nieces and nephews. Rich was preceded in death by his father James Current Sr., his mother and stepfather Daisy and Art Otto, his beloved wife Shirley Current, his brothers Robert, George, and Donald Current, and his sister Beverly Durkop.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10 A.M., Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, April 11, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the services, and inurnment will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Richard D. “Rich” Current memorial fund has been established.

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

Rosalita V. Brass

Rosalita V. Brass, 80, of Asbury, died Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation for Rosalita will be from 9:30 am until 11:15 am Friday, April 11, 2025 at First Baptist Church, 2143 Judson Drive in Dubuque.  The Funeral Service will follow at 11:30 am with Reverand Timothy Bees officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Wood Cemetery in Ackley, IA at a later date.

Rosalita was born December 17, 1944, in Iowa Falls, IA, the daughter of Robert and Gertrude Klooster Renken. She was the third of four children and grew up on the family farm near Wellsburg, IA.  Rose graduated from Wellsburg High School and Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls.  Her first full-time employment was at Parkersburg State Bank in Parkersburg, IA.

From a casual knowledge of each other at Ellsworth, to an opportunistic meeting in Ackley, she met Ronald Brass in 1966. There was a mutual attraction and they were married on December 17, 1967, at Aplington Baptist Church in Aplington, IA. They briefly resided in Falls Church, Virginia before Ron was deployed to Vietnam. Back together again, Rose and Ron moved to Ames, IA, so Ron could complete his education. Rose supported Ron with a position at University Bank in Ames.

In 1969, Rose and Ron relocated to Bettendorf, Iowa, where their daughter, Stacy, was born in 1971. Rose embraced life as a full-time mother, dedicating herself to helping family and friends, volunteering in the community, and developing her crafting skills. She was deeply devoted to Stacy’s schooling and activities, never missing a single event and always offering unwavering support. Her bond with loved ones was exceptional. She made it a priority to keep connections strong across generations, from cousins to nieces and nephews, and even their children. She brought everyone together through family picnics and special events-each one thoughtfully documented with photos and heartfelt write-ups, carefully placed into cherished albums.

She had an unwavering faith and was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Dubuque. Her love for children shone through her 25 years as a Sunday school teacher, and she also gave her time visiting elderly women in the church community. She generously shared her creativity, using her crafting talents to make banners for the church, as well as handmade gifts for family, friends and the children she loved. She had a special love for gardening-roses were her favorite, but she also enjoyed planting tulips and other spring flowers. An excellent baker, she was known for her delicious sugar cookies. She took pride in her home and had a wonderful circle of friends. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and was someone who could engage anyone in a conversation.

Survivors include her husband, Ron; one daughter, Stacy Brass of West Des Moines, IA; one sister, Rosemary (Doug) Neymeyer of Ackley, IA; two brothers-in-law, Dale (Carlleen) Brass and Merlyn (Linda) Brass, both of Ackley, IA; and one sister-in-law, Marcia Renken of Iowa Falls, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter at birth in 1974, Jodi Lyn, one brother, Robert G. Renken, and one sister, Roberta (Harold) Aukes.

The American Diabetes Association and the ALS Association will be the favored charities for memorials received by the family.

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