Obituaries Archive

Meghann Horn

It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Meghann Horn on November 24, 2024, at the age of 45.  Meghann was born on June 25, 1979 in Orange, CA, to Larry and Marilyn (Loe) Horn and primarily resided in the Galena, IL area.

Meghann was an avid reader and loved animals and children.  She was known locally for Meg’s Eggs, her popular free-range chicken eggs.

She is survived by her son, Sidney (Morgan) Tessendorf; her parents, Larry and Marilyn (Loe) Horn; her sister, Erika (James Phomsavanh) Horn Phomsavanh; her nieces Leah and Hannah Phomsavanh; her companion Matt Keiffer; her beloved dog, Tango; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by grandparents, Amber and Anna (Mangan) Loe, Evan and Inez (Claybaugh) Horn, and her uncles and aunts Evan (Caroline) Horn, Robert (Patty) Horn, Donald (Roberta) Horn, and Johnny Horn.  Per Meghann’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services.

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

Phyllis R. Hoerner

Phyllis Rose Hoerner, 90, passed away on November 23, 2024, with her family by her side at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 29, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a prayer service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Phyllis, the eldest daughter of Leo and Veronica (Ungs) Brecht, was born in Holy Cross Iowa. She studied nursing at Mount Mercy College in Cedar Rapids and graduated in 1955. She worked as a registered nurse for more than 50 years in Dubuque. Phyllis provided care for hundreds of patients throughout her career at Xavier Hospital, Mercy Medical Center and Hospice of Dubuque. She also cared for many friends and family throughout her life.

Phyllis continued to give back to her community after retirement, spending her time volunteering at St. Joseph Key West Church, the American Cancer Society’s Discovery Shop, Stonehill Care Center, and the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

She married John Hoerner on May 2, 1959, in Holy Cross, Iowa. Phyllis and John lived and were active in the Key West area until his death in 2000. In 2010, Phyllis moved to the Village Cooperative of Asbury. There, she built a strong community of friends and stayed active.

Phyllis is survived by daughter Lisa (Gary) Wittman and son Bill (Kathy) Hoerner, both of Dubuque, and seven grandchildren whom she dearly loved. Her grandchildren are Tammy (Jim) Robinson, Ted Wittmann (Janet), Tonya (Chris) Lenz, Ty (Ashley) Wittmann, Tim (Fiancé Audrey) Wittmann, Amber (Alex) Gonzalez, and Emily (Dan) Weiler. Phyllis had 10 great grandchildren, and they each brought her so much joy.

She is also survived by sister Kay Ross, in-laws Ann and Bob Lambe, and sisters-in-law Darlene Hoerner Schmitt and Sally Hoerner, along with many nieces and nephews.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband John, her parents, and her mother- and father- in-law Walter and Gladys Hoerner.

Phyllis’s family would like to give a special thanks to Vanessa and the entire 3rd floor staff at Stonehill Health Center, Hospice of Dubuque and the nursing community that Phyllis treasured throughout her life.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Phyllis spent her long life caring deeply for her family, nurturing lifelong friendships and helping countless others through her nursing career. Even in her final months, Phyllis was drawn to the nurses’ station at Stonehill. As the adage goes, “once a nurse, always a nurse.”

Arthur V. Boardman

Arthur “Butch” Vincent Boardman, 68, of Folsom, CA, passed away on 21st of October 2024.

Family and friends may gather from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 6th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with a funeral service to begin at 10:30 a.m. with Deacon Bill Biver officiating.  The burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. A livestream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page. 

Born on February 13, 1956, Butch was the second child of Arthur M. Boardman and Catherine R. (Rooney) Boardman. Though he was born with an intellectual disability, Butch’s friendly demeanor and engaging personality touched everyone he met.  Butch received his first two years of education at St Columbkille’s, then he attended special education at Audubon, Washington Jr. High, and Prescott, graduating in 1978. Butch worked at several jobs with his team lead Neil Candee, he did janitorial services for Sears, W.C. Brown and in addition worked at Area Residential Care.  Since 2012, he had lived independently in Folsom, CA, following the passing of his father, and he often said these were some of the best years of his life.

Butch has an enthusiasm for military planes and classic cars, and he could talk at length about them. He enjoyed building model cars and planes and creating paint-by-number artworks, many of which he lovingly gave to his friends. Butch was a passionate wrestling fan and cherished watching matches with his friend Mary. He loved bowling weekly with friends from Amani Exceptional Services and was a devoted fan of Sci-Fi, old westerns, and Star Wars.

Preceded in death by his parents, and a grandniece, Jemma Callista Edwards.

Butch is survived by his sisters Patricia Boardman and Karen Boardman of Anaheim, CA, Kristine (Brad) King of Post Falls, Idaho, his two aunts, Thelma Simon and Betty Boardman, 5 nieces, 2 nephews and his “brother from another mother,” Dick Gregory.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff at Amani Exceptional Services, especially Emily, Wilhelmina, Karen, Sokib, Jennifer and Mary.

Ruth A. Neyens

Ruth Ann (Keller) Neyens, 97, of Dubuque took her last earthly breath on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center, resting in the arms of her sweet angel, great-granddaughter, Jenna Samson.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Friday, November 29, 2024 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ruth will be 11:00 am Friday, November 29, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Ruth was born November 1, 1927, the daughter of O.J. and Iris (Wilmot) Keller, with an independent heart, competitive spirit, and the athleticism to go along with it. Ruth would be found regularly excelling on the ball fields, running the court in basketball games, and dominating the lanes when she bowled.

Life changed for Ruth when she hitched a ride with her friend’s cute cousin. Ruth jumped in the front seat next to Ed Neyens and true love took over from there. Ruth and Ed were joined in holy matrimony on January 17, 1948, and were lucky to continue to celebrate their love for the next 70 years. Their marriage was blessed with five children: Sandra (Herk) Hammerand of Dubuque; Edward (Debby) Neyens Jr. of Scottsdale, AZ; Susan (Joseph) Haas of Dubuque; Larry (Tina) Neyens of Marion, IA; Mark (Jaclyn) Neyens of Hiawatha, IA.

Ruth and Ed spent their many years together devoted to their family and friends. They traveled the country after retirement creating adventures and leaving a trail of friends in almost every state. Ruth loved getting their travel books out filled with people they met along the way and relished telling her kids and grandkids stories to go along with each name.

Ruth adored her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her great-great-grandchildren, but Ed was her life. Her life changed again when Ed passed away on December 10, 2017. She has spent the years since longing to see him again. During that time, a special bond was created between Ruth and her great-granddaughter Jenna. Jenna could calm her when others couldn’t, could get her to smile and laugh, and show her feisty side on occasion. Jenna’s love, constant care, and commitment to Ruth is appreciated by all of Ruth’s family.

Those left to cherish Ruth’s memory include her five children, 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren with one on the way. Ruth’s siblings: Olive (Al) Wolter; Helen Gourley; Peter (Joan) Keller; and John (Marilyn) Keller.

In addition to her adoring husband, Ed, Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her siblings and in-laws: Dorothy and Mickey Marty; Dolores (Toots) and Don Jungblut; Carol Keller; Cpl. Oliver Keller Jr.; Doris (Cookie) and Ron Kuehn; and Don Gourley.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

Jay M. Cox

Jay M. Cox, 71, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024. He was a man known for his love of animals and always having a dog treat in his pocket.

Born July 8th, 1953, the son of James “Jim” Cox and Rosemary (Hoffmann) Cox, he spent his early years learning the value of hard work and the meaning of family from his parents. He married the love of his life, Barb Basten, on August 6th, 1983, and together they shared 41 years of marriage.

Jay worked a career as a draftsman and was enjoying retirement.  He loved meeting and talking to people. He spent many years volunteering his time at a local nursing home. He liked telling stories and especially loved telling “Dad” jokes. He also loved Native American history and for many years he would attend rendezvous during the summer months and teach classes about Native Americans in the winter. Jay was very artistic and would show this through the Native American artifacts he would make. He made life size knives, arrows and spears, along with miniature items that you would need to use a magnifying glass to see.

Jay loved food and socializing so you’d often find him at the Dubuque Farmers’ Market. He would be at both the outdoor and indoor market, talking with friends and handing out dog treats to every passing dog. You would also find Jay, several times a week, hanging out at his favorite restaurant, City Limits Family Restaurant in Maquoketa,  Iowa. Here he would have friendly banter with anyone that would engage, especially Ozzie. He was very close to his City Limits’ family, and we would like to thank them for making Jay’s last few hours extra special.

Jay was preceded in death by his parents, James “Jim” Cox, and Rosemay (Hoffmann) Cox; his in-laws, William and Darlene (Brownell) Basten; and his brother-in-law, James (Jim), Schlarman.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Barb; his two children, Dane (Chelsea) Cox, Dan Cox; and his three grandsons: Sanders Cox, Sawyer Cox, and Shelton (Chubba) Cox, as well as his fur grandchildren, Dusty, Kylo and Neeko.

Jay is also survived by his siblings, Linette Casavant, Steven Cox, Ronald (Thyra) Cox, Douglas Cox, Kyle (Barb) Cox, Lisa (Mike) Bruning, and many nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to the Dubuque Police and Fire department for their help during this difficult time.

A celebration of life for his close friends and family will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque is assisting the family.

Mark A. Gloden

Mark A. Gloden, 64, of Galena, Illinois, passed away on November 6, 2024 at Midwest Medical Center.

According to his wishes, no public services will be held. Mark’s generosity was evident by his gift of donation to the Illinois Donor Network “Gift of Hope.”

Mark was born on April 29, 1960 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Patricia (Mullady) Strang. He grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and then moved to Maine in his twenties before moving back to East Dubuque, Illinois. Mark retired one year ago from Wal-Mart in Galena, where he worked as a stock clerk. He also spent most of his life doing maintenance jobs for apartment complexes and other various jobs. Mark loved the outdoors, fishing, and kayaking. He was often found casting his pole under the East Dubuque Bridge and the Galena River.

Mark is survived by his son Joshua Gloden of Arizona, nephews Austin, Sawyer, and Levi Gloden of Maine, uncle Shannon Mullady of Maine, aunt Judith Hall of Dubuque, several cousins, and special best friend Liz Andreson of Galena, Illinois.

He was preceded in death by his mother Patricia, brother Glen Gloden, grandfather George Mullady and grandmother Charolette Pigg.

Steven P. Septer

Steven Patrick Septer, 57, of Dubuque IA passed away Sunday, November 10th, 2024, after a courageous 6 month battle with Burkitt’s Lymphoma.

To honor Steve’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19th, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Sharing of memories will conclude the visitation with a celebration of life at Happy’s Place immediately following.

Steve was born on November 12, 1966, in Fairfield, IA, son of Marvin and Norene Septer. Steve proudly completed three degrees at the University of IA, he earned a BS in health promotion ’93, a BSN in nursing ’00, and a MSN in nurse anesthesia ’05. Steve provided anesthesia services for several groups throughout his career, including Anesthesia Associates of Kansas City, Dubuque Anesthesia Services (working at Mercy One and Tri-State Surgery Center), Medical Associates and finished his career at Southwest Health in Platteville, WI.

Steve was well respected by his colleagues due to his attention to detail, intelligence, and reliability. He always strived to put patient care first, and encouraged others to raise their level of care. He meticulously cared for countless patients with compassion, dedication, and a sense of humor.

Steve was a devoted son, brother and friend who took the phrase ‘give the shirt off your back’ to the highest level. He was blessed to have many very close friends share his path in life. His other interests include BMW motorcycle trips with his brother Gary, and friends Dave DeMint, and Tony Corazzin. Steve was an avid Hawkeye fan, especially enjoying football, basketball, and wrestling. He enjoyed following NFL football cheering on the Rams and the Raiders. Steve had a large and varied music collection; he loved cooking and had a passion for fitness.

Those left to cherish his memories are his mother Norene Septer, of Fairfield, brother Gary Septer of Fairfield, brother Michael (Elaine) Septer of Lenexa, KS, niece Jenna (Garrison) Palmer and nephews Paul Septer and Noah Septer-Martinez, two aunts Diana Craig of Salem, IA and Pamela (Wayne) Oltman of Anamosa, IA, three cousins Frederick Meyer of Iowa City, Erika (Rick) Conrad of Solon, IA their children Alyssa and Amanda, and Stan Perdios of Georgia.

Heartfelt gratitude goes out to Stonehill At Home, Hospice and numerous friends.

Wayne G. Schrobilgen

Wayne G. Schrobilgen, 80, of Dubuque died at Hawkeye Care Center on Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 10:00 am  to 1:00 pm at Leonard’s Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a Military service will begin at 1:00 pm. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Wayne was born in Dubuque, October 6, 1944 to Charles & Verena (Schmitt) Schrobilgen. Wayne graduated from Dubuque Senior High in 1962, followed by service in the US Army until 1965.

Wayne married Jeanne Pusateri on September 10, 1966.

Wayne worked as a welder for John Deere, was a truck driver for CRST and TSP, and retired as a salesman for Vallet Food Service.

He is survived by his wife Jeanne, his children Rena (Kurt) Stierman, Dubuque, IA, Jana (Ray) Bennett, North Liberty, IA, Abby (Jeff) Mertka, Solon, IA, and Tony (Nicole) Schrobilgen, Tiffin, IA, siblings, Darlene Kaskie, Denver, CO, Derald (Jean) Schrobilgen and Dale (Jan) Schrobilgen, both of Dubuque, IA, in-laws, Joyce Huss, Dubuque, IA, Andrea Schwegman, Davenport, IA, Betty Schrobilgen, Villages, FL, Tom Schwegman, Davenport IA, grandchildren Tye (Blair Burkitt) Stierman of Dubuque, IA, Drake (Madison Chao) Stierman of Philadelphia, PA, Julia (Lucas Coughlin) Stierman of St. Paul, MN, Emerson Bennett and Grayson Bennett of North Liberty, IA, Brittany Mertka of Wilton, IA, Lily Mertka of Solon, IA, Jackson Schrobilgen and Mason Schrobilgen of Tiffin, IA, three generations of nieces and nephews,  extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Verena (Schmitt) Schrobilgen, in-laws Frank and Anne Pusateri, five brothers, Glenn, Kenny, Lyle, Butch, and Loras, two sisters, Janet Rang and Jeri Gyure, sisters-in-law Betty Schrobilgen (Glenn), Henrita Schrobilgen (Glenn), Katherine Schrobilgen (Kenny), Betty Schrobilgen (Lyle), Bette Schrobilgen (Dale) and Judy Flanagan, and brothers-in-law, Ed Rang (Janet), Bob Gyure (Jeri), Pat Flanagan (Judy), Bill Huss (Joyce), Mike Pusateri, and Jeff Pusateri.

Thank you to all who cared for Wayne, including the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Eileen M. Atchison

Eileen M. Atchison, 82, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2024 at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Thursday December 5,2024 at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Eileen was born on December 4, 1941 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Rita (Schmidt) Pothoff. She was united in marriage to Dan Atchison on July 15, 1970. He preceded her in death on July 1, 2008. She was an avid sewer, and loved to read romance novels. She loved music and her family, especially when they all got together.

Eileen is survived by three daughters Jeanne Hannan, Lisa Meisenburg, Mary Christine “Chrissy” (Steve) Cosci,  son Kelly (Valerie) Husemann, grandchildren Stephanie Quinn, Tiffany Scott, Jesse Hannan, Brian Husemann, Kurt Husemann, Cody Atchison-Grass, Hailey Bush Atchison, and Johnny Hannan, sisters Sandy (Kevin) Ehlers and Jan Grady, brothers Frank (Jayne) Pothoff, Al (Katie) Pothoff, and Ron (Betty) Pothoff.

She was preceded in death by her parents John and Rita, husband Dan, son David Husemann, sisters-in-law Genevieve Meyer, Lucille Atchison, Mary Jo Atchison and Margo Atchison, brother-in-law Jim Grady, David “Man” (Margo) Atchison, and Al (Donna) Less.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center – especially Kim Hedrick- as well as Hospice of Dubuque for their amazing care of mom.

Robert E. Gomoll

Robert Earl Gomoll, 75, born April 8th, 1949, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Tuesday November 19th, 2024, at Mercy Hospital from the effects of Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS).

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday November 25, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 7:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Chuck Peterson officiating.

Robert was born on April 8th, 1949, in Clinton, IA to Earl E. Gomoll and Ruth E. Spahn.

Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Education from University of Wisconsin – Platteville in 1972 and received his Master of Arts from Loras Collage in 1976.

While at college at Platteville Robert met the love of his life Linda Lageson and married at St. Paul’s Lutheran church in Clinton, IA on January 22, 1971. Robert and Linda were married a beautiful 53 years at the time of Robert’s passing.

Robert was a teacher at Senior High in Dubuque, IA for 39 years before his retirement in May of 2009. Robert then went on to teach an additional 11 years at University of Dubuque in the English department from 2010 to 2022. While a teacher at Senior High Robert was a wrestling trainer for 2 years. Robert also wrote the Senior High Homecoming pep song in 1989 which is still performed today.

Robert enjoyed yardwork, reading, especially from the Bible and was an accomplished published writer, writing plays for the radio and theatre, articles for several magazines, short stories and poems. Robert was an active participant at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Robert loved spending time with his family. Robert also loved learning new magic tricks; he was a member of the Dubuque chapter of Magic Club where he performed many magic tricks for his fellow magicians and patrons. Robert was defined by his sheer strength both of character and in the literal sense.  With his love of body building at his peak, Robert had a nearly 50-inch chest and 19-inch arms and could have been mistaken for a professional wrestler if he wasn’t carrying a book about American Literature or writing a poem.

Those left to cherish him are his wife, Linda Gomoll of Dubuque, IA, his children Brian Gomoll, Michael (Andrea) Gomoll, and his granddaughter Cora (fiancé Ryan LeMay) Gomoll all of Dubuque, IA. His sister Evelyn (Jerry) Sexton of Geneseo, IL, mother-in-law Vivian Lageson and sister-in-law Sandy Schober both of Blanchardville, WI.  Also, nieces in England and many nieces and nephews here in the area, along with cousins and many family friends. Robert was preceded in death by his parents Earl E. Gomoll and Ruth E. Gomoll and father-in-law Erling Lageson.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation in Robert’s name be given to the ALS Association or to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Dubuque, IA.

Rob’s memory will be cherished by all.  Each day spent with him made everyone feel like the luckiest person on the face of the Earth.

John W. Wild

John Wayne Wild, 71, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday evening, November 20, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

John Wayne Wild was born on November 18, 1953 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to John Joseph and Glatha May (Hodges) Wild.  He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School.  He had worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for a short time, farmed with his father for several years, and most notably mowed the Harmony Cemetery in Zwingle for many years.

Wayne was a member of the First Baptist Church in Maquoketa where he was involved in many activities.  He enjoyed photography and watching movies, especially John Wayne movies.

Those left to honor his memory include a brother, Richard “Dick” Wild of Maquoketa, IA; and nephews, Jim (Marla) Wild of St. Louis, MO, Steve (Rosa) Wild of Algonquin, IL, Brian (Michelle) Wild of Ames, IA, and Mark (Amy) Wild of Marion, IA; and 8 great-nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister-in-law, Carol Sue Wild.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, December 2, 2024, at First Baptist Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at Harmony Cemetery, Zwingle, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Maquoketa.

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

Irmgard T. Tedrow

Irmgard Theresia Tedrow, 92, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Irmgard Theresia Schultes was born on December 13, 1931 in Erbendorf, Germany, to Stefan and Anna (Kraus) Schultes.  She was educated in Germany and then moved to the United States in 1958.  She had worked various jobs throughout her life including working at Hoffman Eggs, in retail at Ben Franklin Store in Maquoketa, Kmart in Indiana, as well as a caregiver and housekeeper.

Irmgard enjoyed gardening and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Cynthia Jean Ketelsen-Kusk of Silver City, NM, Harry James Ketelsen of DeWitt, IA, Rebecca Julie (Robert) Sonstegard of Maquoketa, IA, and John (Melissa) Ketelsen of Las Vegas, NV; 14 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Barbara, and a grandson Michael.

A private family gathering will be held.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  No public services are planned at this time.

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

Mary E. Stahr

Mary Elizabeth Stahr, 79, of Sherrill, died Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Mary will be 10:00 am Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born December 2, 1944, in Hanover, IA, the daughter of Joseph and Dorothy (Gilgenbach) Fitzgerald. On October 27, 1962, she married Douglas Dean Stahr at St. Mary Catholic Church in McGregor, IA.

Mary graduated from MarMac High School in McGregor, IA. She worked for William C. Brown & Company before taking a break to raise her children, returning in the 1980s.

Mary enjoyed time spent with her family and friends, traveling, and family vacations spent with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Douglas; three sons, Douglas (Cheryl) Stahr of Sherrill, Jeffrey Stahr of Dubuque, and Christopher Stahr of St. Louis, MO; one daughter, Jennifer (Will Costa) Stahr of Madison, WI; three grandsons, Blaine Stahr, Sam Costa, and Owen Stahr; one brother, Mike (Pam) Fitzgerald of Marquette, IA; one sister, Helen (Dan Pearson) Fitzgerald of Madison, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her in-laws, Lawrence and Hope Stahr, one daughter-in-law, Kathy Stahr, three sisters, Alice Allen, Patricia Dunk, Cathy Lange, three brothers-in-law, Larry Stahr, Tom Stahr, Allan Schnuelle, and one sister-in-law, Carol Stahr.

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

William L. Cook

William L. “Bill” Cook, age 65, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, at MercyOne Des Moines.  To honor Bill’s life, private family services were held.  Burial was in Linwood Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

Bill was born on February 28, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Donald and Edith (Specht) Cook Sr.  

Bill graduated from high school and then honorably served his country with the U.S. Army.  He was employed in the construction industry for many years, specializing in concrete work, roofing and siding.  In his free time, Bill liked to go fishing and hunting and watching NASCAR.  He also enjoyed spending time socializing with family and friends.

Those left to cherish his memory include: his children, Amy Cook, Dubuque, IA, Michelle (Nathaniel) Cook, Scottsdale, AZ, Josh Cook, Dubuque, IA, Eric Cook, Phoenix, AZ and Clayton Cook, Dubuque, IA; 5 grandchildren and 1 great-grandson; 5 siblings, Donald “Butch” Cook, Jr., Debra “Deb” Doll, Charles “Chuck” (Patty) Cook, Robert “Bob” (Heidi) Cook, all of Dubuque, IA and Carol (Troy) Hackbarth, Rockford, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Paul E. Oliver

Paul E. Oliver, 80, of 3725 Asbury Rd, Dubuque peacefully passed away at 12:40 am, Wednesday November 20, 2024. No memorial service is planned at this time.

Paul was born at Finley Hospital on September 29, 1944. He was the son of Sophia (Hamsmith) and Leo E. Oliver. Paul graduated from the Senior High School class of 1963. He was a student photographer for the Senior yearbook, the Echo.

After graduation, he worked as a photographer’s assistant at Mould Photography Studio in downtown Dubuque. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted by Uncle Sam, becoming a U.S. Marine during Vietnam. While in the Marine Corps he was baptized Catholic. His Service occupation in the military was that of a photographer and motion picture cameraman. After attaining rank of Staff Sergeant, he at one time had 15 soldier-photographers reporting to him. He was honorably discharged in 1968.

He met his life-long companion and later legal spouse, Michael T. Mentzer around 1975. They were together for nearly 50 years. Paul worked as an auto mechanic for approximately 40 years at the Richardson’s dealership. Paul was among the first Honda mechanics in the Tri-State area. He recently donated to Unity Point-Finley Hospital an over-sized and extremely rare 1940s-era aerial photograph of Finley Hospital. Surrounded by long gone and heavily foliaged residential neighborhoods, the photo was taken by Mould Studio of Dubuque. The image was part of Paul’s private photo collection which included military photos as well. Paul was a taciturn man.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister and 4 brothers.

Survivors include his spouse Michael T. Mentzer, a sister-in-law Patricia L. Meyer, 2 sisters, a brother, nieces, nephews and some members of his family of origin.

A special thank you goes out to Ennoble, the Dubuque VA Clinic and Behr’s Funeral Home!