Obituaries Archive
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Jeffrey S. Pefley
Jeff was greeted in heaven on January 11, 2024 by his Father, his fiancé and his niece. He was 49 years young and died of a sudden illness at University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa. Jeff was born October 29, 1974 on a beautiful fall day in Hutchinson, Minnesota to Albert and Barbara (Schomers ) Pefley. He was the 5th of 5 children, in other words the “baby” of the family. He grew up in Centerville, IA and Le Center, Minnesota. He graduated from Le Center High School as the Valedictorian of the Class of 1993. He went on to pursue a degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from Mankato State and graduated Magna Cum Laude.
Fishing was a favorite past time for Jeff with him usually catching the biggest fish. He loved to go to hockey games … Go Saints! He loved animals and nature. His yard and home were beautiful and well groomed. He also loved to ride his motorcycle and take his boat out for a trip around the lake. Brave, loyal, caring, funny and a friend to everyone, he was the guy you wanted as a friend. He was wonderful and always had a big hug for family members. He loved his job at the Post Office. He took it seriously and wanted to do it perfectly like everything else in his life. Going to work was something he looked forward to every day. Jeff was also a fantastic care taker for his mother whom he lived with. He would take her out for many long drives, shopping, provider appointments, restaurants, etc. The family is very appreciative of his sacrifice.
Jeff leaves behind a large extended family. Mother: Barbara Pefley, Peosta , IA , Siblings: Deborah Wardlow (Sean) Centerville, IA; Jill Zintz (Bill) Centerville, IA ; Kimberly Crane (Alan ) Colona, IL; Albert Pefley Jr., Palm Beach Gardens, FL, numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father Albert Pefley Sr.; fiance’, Joni Hermanson; niece, Crystal Howe.
Visitation will be from 10:00-11:45 with a service to follow at noon on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.
“…….and neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night, nor winds of change, nor a nation challenged will stay us from the swift completion of our appointed rounds.”
Postman’s Motto 1914
The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Jeff’s memory to be donated to MercyOne. Cards may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jeff Pefley Family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at behrfuneralhome.com
Eulaine M. Hutchcroft
Eulaine Marie Hutchcroft, 89, of LaMotte, IA, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on January 12, 2024, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, IA.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 17th, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West Catholic Church with Mgsr. Thomas Toale officiating. Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. Burial will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery in LaMotte, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.
Eulaine was born on November 5, 1934, to John and Isabell Shanahan (Lammer) on the family farm near Bernard, IA, the eldest of 7 siblings.
In 1951, Eulaine met the love of her life James (Jim) Hutchcroft at a dance in Zwingle, IA. They married in 1954 and went on to have 9 children, Lois, Lori, Bill, Tom, Karen, Steve, Dave, Don and Amy. She was an extraordinary mother, able to make all nine of her children feel uniquely yet equally loved and adored.
Eulaine began her career with the US Post Office in LaMotte, IA as a clerk in 1969. She went on to become the Postmaster in LaMotte in 1977, a position she enjoyed for 22 years. She loved the interaction with the community her post office work afforded her and was proud to be part of the postal service. Many kids in the community remember her fondly for allowing them to wait for the bus in the post office on cold mornings and handing out half sticks of gum. She was also famous for her homemade popcorn balls on Halloween.
In 1999, Eulaine retired and spent her time volunteering, gardening, quilting and enjoying time with friends and family. A lifelong Catholic, Eulaine with active in church activities throughout her life and attended mass regularly. Her faith was very important to her.
Eulaine was an incredibly kind and giving person. She loved her family deeply and was deeply loved in return. She had a great sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She always put the needs of others before herself and was the first to offer a hand to anyone who needed it. She was a beautiful soul, inside and out.
Eulaine is survived by her husband of nearly 70 years, James Hutchcroft.
She is also survived by the following:
Her children: Lois Clasen, Lori (Jerry) Clasen, Bill (Betty) Hutchcroft, Tom Hutchcroft, Karen (Terry) Kilburg, Steve Hutchcroft, Dave (Kristi) Hutchcroft, Don Hutchcroft and Amy (Jed) Erickson.
Her grandchildren: Chad Clasen, Keith (Inna) Clasen, Kayla (Justin) Hanson, Jamie (Missy) Clasen, Janelle (Ben) Haun, Michelle (Jeremy) Budde, Chad (Julia Marambey) Till, Ryan (Jenny) Hutchcroft, Amber Hutchcroft, Andrew Hutchcroft, Cory Davis, and Alex, Anika and Jake Erickson.
Her great-grandchildren: Aiden and Mila Clasen, Kayleigh Faulkner, Huxtin Hanson, Nora Clasen, Grayson, Guy, Grant and Jay Haun, Kaitlyn Steines, Zach and Gabbie Scott, Cash, Corbyn and Connor Budde, Anya and Ariana Marambey, Gwen Dunlap and Ava Felderman.
Her great-great grandchildren: Emery and Jaxson Steines, Aurora Eiklenborg
Surviving siblings: Mary (George) Felderman, Chuck (Mary) Shanahan
Surviving in-laws: Arlene Shanahan, Bob Timmerman, Ginny Heim, Kay Shanahan, Charlie Bergfeld, Dellene Till, Georgia (Jim) Willging, John (Sandi) Hutchcroft
Eulaine was preceded in death by her parents, her son-in-law Paul Clasen, and daughter-in-law Michelle Hutchcroft.
She was also predeceased by her brother Paul Shanahan, sister Ann Timmerman, brother Pat Shanahan, brother and sister-in-law Loras and Julie Shanahan, brother-in-law Jerry Heim, brother in-law and sister in-law Bob and Leny Hutchcroft, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Joan and Jim Hickson, sister-in-law Emma Jean Bergfeld and brother-in-law Danny Hutchcroft.
Eulaine’s family would like to express our sincere gratitude to the staff of Mill Valley Care Center and Hospice of Jackson County for the excellent care she received.
Jeanette E. Laufenberg
Jeanette E. Laufenberg, 94, of 2227 Delmonaco Drive, Dubuque, IA, and recently of Stonehill Care Center, passed away on Wednesday, January 10, 2024. Visitation will be from 9:30 am to 10:30 am on Tuesday, January 16, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 1870 St. Ambrose Street. Mass to follow at 10:30 am. Burial will be at Mt. Cavalry Cemetery, 1111 Davis Street, Dubuque, IA.
Jeanette was born August 6, 1929 in Dubuque, IA, daughter of Charles and Ada (Johnson) Pfeiffer. She married Roy Laufenberg on May 19, 1949 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA. Roy preceded her in death on June 4, 2016.
Jeanette worked for many years at the Julien Motor Inn after raising her children. Prior to that she was a stay-at-home mom who took her children on many camping adventures throughout the United States along with her devoted husband, Roy. They were charter members of the Dubuqueland Campers Club and members of the National Campers and Hikers Association, NCHA. After her children were raised, Jeanette became a devoted grandmother and great grandmother. Roy and Jen’s house on Delmonaco Street became the go-to place for family gatherings and holidays. Jen was famous for her Thanksgiving dinner and home-made goodies, which were especially plentiful during the family Christmas celebration. Her grandchildren loved their trips to grandma’s house where they were consistently spoiled.
Jeanette is survived by three children, Randy (Vicky) Laufenberg, Linda (Jan) Scott and Lori (Dick) Launspach, all of Dubuque; grandchildren, Jared (Angie) Wolfe, J.W. (Angelia) Henslee, Jason (Amanda) Laufenberg, Kyle (Amber) Laufenberg, Dana (Tyler) McAtee, Miles (long-time girlfriend, Taylor Fleege) Launspach, great grandchildren; Connor Wolfe, Lincoln and Everly Henslee, Kelsey and Luke Laufenberg, Carter and Layne Laufenberg, Emma, Bo and Olivia McAtee.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings, Jim, Bud, Bob, Phil and Jerry Pfeiffer and Dorothy Sheehan and Darlene Moriarty, and a great grandson, Bradley Schmitt.
For more information or to leave an online condolence, please visit egelhofsiegertcasper.com.
Charles E. Sieverding
Charles “Chuck” E. Sieverding, 77, of Dubuque, formerly of Bellevue, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Bethany Home in Dubuque. Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Thursday, January 18, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:30 am prior to Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Following mass, burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.
Chuck was born January 2, 1947 in Bellevue, the son of Lawrence and Lucille (Dempewolf) Sieverding. He graduated from Bellevue Marquette High School in 1966. Chuck served in the US Army Reserves during the Vietnam War. He then worked for John Deere Works Dubuque for 30 years in heat treatment and utility until he retired. Chuck enjoyed spending time with family and friends, bowling, playing baseball, and going to music concerts. Chuck was known for his goofy playfulness and humor and was most recently a beloved resident at Bethany Home in Dubuque.
Survivors include his children, Scott (Crystal) Sieverding of Urbandale, and Kim (Jonathan) Nelson of East Dubuque; grandchildren, Cassidy, Samuel, Estella, and Camila; siblings, Paul Sieverding, Jim Sieverding, Carol Armstrong, Mary Jane (Tom) McConaghy, and Susan (Hugh) Engling; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; siblings and in-laws, Francis Sieverding, Ruth Ann Womeldorf, Lawrence and Jan Sieverding, Janet McFadden, Marcy and Bob Engelman, Jan Sieverding (Paul), Linda Sieverding, and Roland Armstrong.
Donations may be made in Chuck’s name to Bethany Home in Dubuque.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com
The Sieverding family would like to thank Bethany Home for their wonderful care and support. Chuck’s “Bethany Family” will never be forgotten.
William J. Welter
William J. Welter (Bill), 69, of Dubuque, passed away January 8, 2024.
In keeping with his wishes, no public services will be held.
Bill was born on March 26, 1954 to Kenneth and Marie (Riesselman) Welter in Dubuque, Iowa.
He graduated in 1972 from Hempstead High school in Dubuque.
Bill was a truck driver for Morse Electric Company.
Bill is survived by his siblings, Connie Welter of Dubuque, Kim (John) Link of Bernard, IA, Jackie (Gary) Connolly of Worthington, IA, and Frankie Nigh of Corinth, TX, and 6 nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The family would like to thank the entire staff at Luther Manor for providing great care for Bill, and also thank the intensive care team at Finley, and Finley Hospital for their exceptional knowledge, skill and care for Bill during his short stay.
The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.
Lyal C. Pfeiler
Lyal C. Pfeiler, 84, of Rickardsville passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, January 11, 2024.
A Prayer Service will be held at 3 p.m., followed by visitation until 8 p.m. on Monday, January 15, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross. Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9 – 10 a.m. on Tuesday prior to the funeral mass.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.
Lyal was born on February 11, 1939, in Holy Cross the son of Al and Lorraine (Brecht) Pfeiler. He attended Holy Cross Grade School and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1957, where he met the love of his life, Melita Wolf. They married on April 30, 1960, at St. Joseph’s Church in Rickardsville.
Faith, family, farming, and service were important to Lyal. Together, he and Melita farmed near Holy Cross, milking registered Brown Swiss and raising hogs. They received the Century and Heritage Farm Awards. He was awarded Outstanding Young Farmer, Master Pork Producer, and Outstanding Dairy Farm Family. Lyal served on various boards, including Farm Bureau, Maquoketa Valley REC, Swiss Valley Ag., Dubuque County Pork Producers and Dubuque County Dairy Board. He was a founding member of the Leo High Endowment Board as Catholic education was very important to him. Lyal was active in the Holy Cross Parish as a parish council and choir member, Eucharistic minister, and lector. He passed along the values of faith and hard work to his seven children.
As part of their daily routine, Lyal and Melita viewed Mass on the iPad. They enjoyed many travels to foreign countries visiting farms. In later years, they enjoyed multiple cruises. Lyal and Melita also enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi, just drowning worms for whatever was biting.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Melita, children: Julie (Dan) Neebel, Joe (Kathy) Pfeiler, Janet (Rod) Hess, Jim (Mary) Pfeiler, John Pfeiler, Joyce (Tom) Pasker and Jolene (Ron) Link; grandchildren: Andrew Neebel, Kate (Aaron) Burke, Blake (Erin) Neebel, and Paige (Alex Rottinghaus) Neebel, Aaron (Laikyn) Pfeiler, Adam Pfeiler, and Livia Pfeiler, Mitch (Amanda) Hess, Leah (Lee) Rohrer, Chandler Pfeiler and Garrett Pfeiler, Chelsie (Terry) Frost, Brianna (Ryan) Kluesner, Austin (McKenzie) Pfeiler, Jordyn (Tim Althaus) Pfeiler, Brooke Pasker, Rachel (Hunter) Bergfeld, Logan Pasker, Troy (Molly) Pasker, Justin (Jessica) Decker, Ryan (Becca) Decker; and 20 great grandchildren; siblings: Louis Pfeiler and Barb (Roger) Kueter; in-laws: Mary (Donnie) Brimeyer, Leon Wolf, Alice Cook, Carolyn (Jim) Pimlott.
He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, John and Clara Wolf, granddaughter, Kayla Decker, great-granddaughter, Maddie Burke; in-laws: Carol Pfeiler, Donald (Dolores and second wife, Dorothy) Wolf, Dale Cook, Rose Wolf, Marvin Wolf, and Francis Wolf.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to any Catholic school of your choice, Dubuque County Right To Life, or Holy Cross Parish.
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.
Lois George

Lois was born on March 28, 1930 to Lester and Aileen (Swift) Neyens in Dubuque, Iowa. She was united in marriage to Robert George on May 24, 1952 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 3, 1998.
Lois enjoyed bowling, reading, and doing jigsaw puzzles. She loved her world travels, especially her cruises to New England, the Panama Canal, and Alaska.
She is survived by her children, Deb Hahlen of East Dubuque, IL, Tony (Jan) George of Sherrill, IA, Robin (Warren) Amling of Bellevue, IA, Toby (Sally) George of Pleasant Hill, IA, Todd (special friend Brenda Sahd) George of Scottsdale, AZ, Terry (Julie) George of Asbury, IA, and Ted (Dana) George of Asbury, IA; grandchildren, Becky Fritz, Heidi, Ben, and Jeremy George, Willie, and Zach Amling, Amanda, Alyssa, Emily, and Tyler George, Nick George, Megan Feldspauch, Jessica Le, Jenna Tressel, and Leah, Maya, and Olivia George. She is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren.
James M. Sheehy

Jerome H. Feldman
Jerome H. Feldman, 91, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2024, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.
Visitation will be held from 2-7 p.m. on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville. Visitation will continue on Monday morning at the funeral home from 9-10 a.m. prior to the funeral mass.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 15, 2024 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.
Jerome was born on May 21, 1932 in Hopkinton, Iowa, the son of Anton and Isabella (Jaeger) Feldmann. After serving two years in the army, he married the love of his life, Mary Jane Goldsmith on May 31, 1958. Jerome’s passions were, Faith, Family and Farming. This was shown by his service to community. He was a member of American Legion Post 137, Usher at the Basilica of St Francis Xavier, drove for RTA, and delivered Meals on Wheels. He organized an annual Family Fun Fest where his family shared a weekend away from their daily lives and spent quality time together. He was a dairy, hog and cattle farmer, and was always concerned about conserving the land.
Survivors include his children: Kathy (Dan) Steffen and Mark (Mary Ann) Feldman both of Dyersville; Joan (Al) Hellmann of Marion, Rose (Greg) Schmidt of Marshalltown; Chris Feldman of Dubuque; and Diane (Andrew) Edgar of Helena, MT; grandchildren: Beckie (Charles) Grim, Matt Steffen, Emily (Josh) Schindler, Molly (Dillion) Scarcello, Ellen (AJ) Sellers, Jessie (Chris) Ketchum, Angie (Max) Perkins, Brandon (Evie Roen) Freese, and Sam Edgar; great grandchildren: Ben Grim, Jakson and Declan Schindler, Nick Sellers, Landon, Eli, and Izzy Ketchum; siblings: Lavonne (Leander) Burkle of Earlville, Elmer (Dorothy) Feldmann of Hopkinton, Dave (Sandy) Feldmann of Alburnett, Loras (Mary) Feldmann of Farley, Gerald (Barb) Feldmann of Epworth, Irv Feldmann of Earlville, Tony (Joyce) Feldmann of Earlville, and Dan (Barb) Feldmann of Cedar Rapids; in-laws: Darrel “Red” Goldsmith of Delhi, Joan Feldmann of Rickardsville, and Leanna Feldmann of Dyersville.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane in 2017, his parents, parents-in-law, Donald and Doris Goldsmith; siblings: Theresa (Leon) Burkle, Floyd (Rita) Feldmann, Celester “Les” Feldmann, and Paul Feldmann; in-laws: Ann Goldsmith.
The family would like to thank the staff at Ellen Kennedy Living Center, Mercy One Senior Care, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their care and compassion.
Memorials may be made to Dubuque County Right to Life.
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.
Ruth A. Nemmers
Ruth Ann (Bottge) Nemmers, 84, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on January 6, 2024. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm Friday, January 12 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 am Saturday, January 13 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral mass can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.
Ruth Ann was born March 20, 1939, in Dubuque, daughter of Elsie and Vernon Bottge. She graduated from the Finley School of Nursing. She dedicated her life to her family and nursing profession, working for Finley Hospital for 40 years. Her compassion, selflessness, and nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. She leaves behind a legacy of love, Kindness, and a family that cherishes the precious moments she shared with them.
She is survived by her loving husband, Dr. Julian Nemmers, her son Thompson Storms and his family (wife Lori and sons Sam and Jacob), her daughter Dawn (Storms) Thomas and her family (husband Ed and children Devon and Tyler), her daughter Heather (Storms) Gilkes and her family (husband Dean and daughter Brittany), and daughter Brooke (Gilkes) Moon and family (husband Nick and sons Levi and Miles) and sister Beverly (Bottge) Spotz and husband Bill.
Memorials may be made to the Finley Health Foundation.
Shirley A. Noel
Shirley Ann (Riniker) Noel, 86, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center. Visitation will be Friday, January 12 from 9:45 to 10:45 am at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Trinity Church followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Shirley was born February 12, 1937, in Balltown, Iowa, daughter of Ambrose and Leona (Jaeger) Riniker.
On September 14, 1957, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, William L. “Bill” Noel at St. Francis Church, Balltown. Together they had four children and were married for 53 years before he was called to his heavenly home on July 2, 2011.
Shirley took great pride in her ability to keep a clean and tidy home. She had a great interest in history, enjoyed feeding the birds and especially delighted seeing the cardinals that frequented her feeders. She loved winter and awaited the first snowfall every year. She could not have scripted a better day to earn her wings that during the beautiful snowfall on Tuesday.
Shirley worked at Neisners Dime Store, the Dubuque Packing Co., Janlin Plastics, and at the Hartig Drug Store on Central for 25 years before retiring in 2002.
Shirley was a member of Holy Spirit Parish (Holy Trinity Church) for over 60 years. She was a member of the Rosary Society, volunteered as needed, and was a member of the church choir. She was also a volunteer at Sunnycrest Manor for Catholic services for many years.
She is survived by two children, Cindy (Mike) Mills of Mooresville, NC and Rick (Lisa) Noel of Nantucket, MA; Grandchildren, Jason (Jess) Noel of Baraboo, WI, Jacob Mills of Mooresville, NC, Claire Noel of New York, Lily Noel of New York and Eva Noel of Durham, NC.
She is also survived by a sister, Diann (Junior) Ott of Peosta, IA and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Cathy Ann Noel; a son, Randy Noel; and two siblings, Lavern Riniker and Verna Mae (Nicholas) Brimeyer.
Memorials may be made in Shirley’s honor to Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Holy Trinity Catholic Church.
The family would like to thank Dr. Christopher Stille and his staff at Medical Associates Clinic for their compassion and care of mom during her illness, the intensive care team at MercyOne for their knowledge, skill and exceptional care, Stonehill community for providing loving care to mom during her short stay and Hospice of Dubuque for guiding them through a very difficult time.
A very special and heartfelt thank you to Diane and Pat Kunnert, Karol and Dave Hubanks. Words are not enough to show our gratitude towards you for all the help, companionship and comfort you provided mom when we could not be there. You made her feel loved and cared for and we are eternally grateful.
Sarah E. Smith
Sarah Elizabeth (Eichhorn) Smith 84, completed her earthly journey on Monday, January 8, 2024. Visitation will be Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony Church, followed by Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. with celebrant Fr. Steve Rosonke. A live stream of Sarah’s Funeral Mass will be available at https://www.stanthony-dubuque.org/live
Born on June 3, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, Sarah was the daughter of Roy and Mary (Deggendorf) Eichhorn.
Those left to cherish Sarah’s memory include her loving husband Roger of 60 years, children Steve (Tracy), Mark (Joy), Mike, Carolyn (Roy) Althaus, Laura (Brian) Frank, 9 grandchildren: Nickolas, Cheyenne, Jessica, Danielle, Luke, Jake, Noah, Emma and Harper; two great grandchildren: Quinn and Finley; brother William (Marta) Eichhorn, one brother-in-law Terrance Smith, two sisters-in-law Karleen (William) Welch and Holly Smith; and many nieces and nephews.
Sarah was an active member of St. Anthony parish for 58 years, serving on the Parish Council, the Liturgy Committee and several other committees.
She was an RN who worked in the Red Cross blood services for twenty years. Sarah went to Haiti several times with medical teams, and again later with St. Anthony volunteer teams to give spiritual aid to their sister parish.
She enjoyed ushering at the University of Dubuque Heritage Center. Forever a Cubs fan, Sarah was thrilled when they won the 2016 World Series!
She enjoyed traveling, pickleball, playing card games and board games, particularly Joker’s Rule.
Above all, Sarah loved her family, supporting them in everything they did. She attended many of their school activities, plays and sporting events. She would do anything for every one of them.
Preceding her in death were her parents, an infant brother James, mother and father-in-law Dorothy and Sev Smith, sister-in-law Barb and her husband Andy Slania, brother-in-law Paul Smith and nephew Dan Welch.
The Smith family is grateful to Kelli, Cortini and Amber with Hospice of Dubuque; Marta Eichhorn and Cori Wasz, N.P. for providing wonderful care and comfort to Sarah and her family at the end of her life.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hospice of Dubuque, or to the family for charity donations.
Tri-State Cremation Center of East Dubuque is assisting the family.
Peter J. Roth
Peter James Roth, 60, of Dubuque, went home to God in Heaven on January 10th, 2024, during the first blizzard of the year.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church. A prayer service will be held at 5:00 PM. Visitation will also be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Monday, January 15, 2024.
The Mass of Christian Burial for Peter will be 10:30 am Monday, January 15, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church. Father Steven Garner and Father David Schatz will be Celebrants, assisted by Deacon Dave Roth. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.
Peter was born on November 11th, 1963 in Dubuque. He grew up in the Washington Street neighborhood, attending Holy Ghost School, followed by Hempstead High School (1982), Loras College (1988), and Clarke University (2000), where he completed his Master of Arts Degree in Special Education. He spent most of his professional career at Hillcrest Family Services and Keystone AEA, where he worked for a combined 35 years educating at risk youth. He also worked for Kevin McGiffin’s Kitchen, making the best pizza Dubuque has ever tasted.
In his free time, Peter was an active parishioner at Holy Ghost Parish his entire life, consistently contributing to That Man Is You (TMIY) and Holy Spirit CEW. He was also a Boy Scout leader and volunteer for Troop 25, receiving the St. George Medal in 2013. Additionally, he was a licensed foster parent for 11 years. He also enjoyed riding his Jeep and visiting the National Parks of America.
Peter is survived by his wife of 36 years, Mary Lee (Hackman) Roth and their two sons, Jacob (Kelsey Benton) Roth and Lucas (Chelsey) Roth & their two children, Iris & Tyson; Paola Gomez Saldana & her family in Leon, Mexico/Barcelona, Spain; Todd (Ann) Kelleher, his best friend; his older siblings, Susan (Ambrose) Dazey, Ann (Ron) Schaal, and Phil (Jody) Roth, all of Dubuque, Ben (Lu) Roth and Greg (Patti) Roth, both of the Des Moines area, and Paul (Ammara) Roth of Rochester, MN; his siblings-in-law- Kaye Hackman & Alan (Gail) Hackman of West Union, IA, Duane (Dwana) Hackman of Tripoli, IA, Loran (Lisa) Hackman of Woodbine, IA, Janet (Jack) Borseth of Decorah, IA, Alvin Jr. (Dede) Hackman of Lawler, IA, and his mother-in-law, Bernice Hackman of West Union, IA. He is also survived by numerous other loved ones on both the Roth & Hackman sides of the family.
He is preceded in death by both of his parents, Ben J. Roth & Phyllis S. Roth, his father-in-law, Alvin Hackman, and his brother-in-law, Don Hackman.
A special thank you to all of the nurses, doctors & staff of Mayo Clinic, MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque. We would also like to thank the volunteer nurses of “Team Pete”, who educated Mary Lee with nursing skills at home.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for Pete at Holy Spirit Parish.
Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory in Dubuque is in charge of the arrangements.
A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Pete’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.
Sara K. Miller
Sara Kay Miller, age 42, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 8, 2024, while surrounded by her loving family. To honor Sara’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00–6:00 p.m., on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at the Lacoma Golf Course Event Center, 8080 Timmerman Drive, East Dubuque, IL. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sara’s family.
Sara was born on February 10, 1981, in Dubuque, IA, one of three daughters to Bruce S. and Glenda M. (Kuhl) Miller. She was a beautiful soul who also possessed a prankster streak when the timing was appropriate. Sara was naturally gifted with a very creative side which she continually developed over time in her crafts and nail art. She also had a great respect for Marilyn Monroe and Freddie Mercury which was always on display. Sara accepted that she was not going to have children of her own, but being blessed with seven nieces and nephews, she took advantage of every chance she had to spend time with them and shared her affinity to teach them her antics only to drive her sisters, Elissa and Erin crazy at times. During the last few months of her life, Sara found great comfort and joy in spending time with her dear friend, Jennie. They spent countless hours running door dashes and simply hanging out together as Jennie graciously helped her with her daily tasks when her family couldn’t physically be by her side. Thankfully, there was much peace to be found in Sara’s last months, along with the sorrow, which helped to ease the pain of her battle with cancer. Sara’s strong will helped to allow her vividly bright light to shine just a little brighter in her last days among us. It’s beyond heartbreaking to ponder life moving forward without our dear Sara walking beside us, but thankfully she has also left behind an abundance of wonderful memories for all who knew and loved her to lean into during the more difficult moments ahead. Thank you, Sara, for simply being you with each of life’s twists and turns and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms as you enjoy your eternal reunion with all of your loved one’s who have been called home ahead of us. We will love and miss you each and every day until we meet again!
Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sara include,
her mother,
Glenda Miller, East Dubuque, IL;
her sisters,
Elissa (Tim) Murphy, East Dubuque, IL,
and Erin (Tom) Loso, East Dubuque, IL;
her nieces and nephews,
Katelyn (Nick Asbell) McIntyre, Peyton (Nolan Farrey) Bastian, Natalie Murphy, Sophia Loso, Benjamin Bastian, and Maddux Loso;
her great-niece,
Reagan Kipper;
her great-nephew due to join us in April,
baby boy Asbell;
her fierce protector and canine companion,
Bonnie;
along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Sara was preceded in death by her father, Bruce Miller; her paternal grandfathers, George Miller and Louis Roth; her maternal grandparents, Melvin and Marie Kuhl; her beloved fur babies, Bubba and Venus; along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Sara’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa Gansemer, for all of their compassionate and exceptional care. They would also like to thank everyone at the Menominee Dunleith Fire Department and the Wendt Center, along with Mollie Roth and Brian Roth. And a very special and heartfelt thank you to Sara’s best friend, Jennie Beaver, who has been a constant and loving companion during this last year of Sara’s life. We are grateful beyond words for all of the love and support you have all so generously granted to Sara.
Online condolences may be shared with Sara’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com
John E. Bartels
John E. “Zoobie” Bartels, 79 of Moore, OK, passed away Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Physicians Hospital in Anadarko, OK.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 19, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville prior to funeral mass. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. on at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.
Zoobie was born August 11, 1944, the 14th child of 15 born to Edward and Maire (Kluesner) Bartels. He graduated from Xavier High School in 1963. Zoobie was a world traveler visiting 32 countries, his favorite being Holland and Italy. His career in transportation took him to California and later, to Oklahoma, retiring in 1995. Zoobie then discovered his true purpose when he decided to drive school bus for the Moore, OK public school district. John worked as a driver and classroom assistant for special needs students. He was given the schools OEA Education Professional Award. As he stated, “Working with the disability kids makes it all worthwhile. They may not be able to walk or talk, but they say it all with their eyes.”
Zoobie always enjoyed his trips back to Iowa, visiting family, nieces and nephews and wanted everyone to know he lived a full wonderful life.
Survivors include his siblings: Emily Bartels of Dyersville IA, Doris Crow of Dubuque, IA, Bevlin Bartels of Hazel Green, WI, Marlene (Steve) McAleer of Monticello, IA, Patricia Bartels of Elk Horn, WI, and Nancy (Burt) Fairchild of Woodbury, MN., and many endearing nieces & nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings: William “Woody” Bartels, Dale Bartels, Myrna Carty, Phyllis Bartels, Joyce (Frank) Caruso, Rosemary (Vern) Frericks, Joan Bartels, and Kay (Roy) Krapfl.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa.
The family would like to thank Jeanne and Mel Graves for their friendship and care of John.
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.