Obituaries Archive

John K. Maurus

John Kenneth Maurus, 76, of Hanover, IL, passed away on February 1, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals. A memorial service will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL, where friends may call from 10:30 AM until the time of service. The burial will take place at a later date.

John was born on August 9, 1948, in Irvington, NJ, to Jack and Theresa nee` Rehbein Maurus. He attended Rutgers University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and later studied analytical chemistry at the University of Minnesota. He began his career as a chemist and fire investigator for Pantecnic Inc., later becoming a fire investigator for Probe Inc. In his later years, he founded John K. Maurus Fire Investigations Inc.

He served in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Captain before receiving an honorable discharge. On October 11, 1981, John married Laurie Starrett. He was actively involved in several organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America, where he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Later, he served as a scoutmaster, traveling with the scouts across the country and assisting those who were working to achieve their merit badges. He was also a member of the Sports Car Club of America, where he participated as a driver, pit crew member, and steward. John enjoyed reading, studying maps, exploring National Geographic, traveling, sports, music, and visiting National Parks, among other outdoor activities.

He is survived by his wife Laurie, their daughter Greta Starrett, a sister Joyce Maurus Sullivan of Lafayette, NJ, and a brother Joe and his wife Cindy Maurus of Branchville, NJ.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Nikolaus Maurus.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the ASPCA or the Sierra Club in memory of John.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to their loving extended family and caring friends during this difficult time.

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

Carol A. Lambert

Carol A. Lambert, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at Stonehill Care Center on March 27, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Carol was born on August 23, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of William and Marian (Kraker) Connolly. She graduated from Clarke College in Dubuque with an associate degree in education and dedicated her career to supporting students in the Special Education Department at Stephen Hempstead High School. On February 7, 1959, in Dubuque, she married the love of her life, Donald Francis Lambert.

Carol was a devoted member of the Adult Literacy Council and will be remembered as a loving and kind-hearted mother and grandmother.

Carol is survived by three children Larry Lambert, Sheila (Jack) Owen, Mike Lambert, 11 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, sister Mary Hagensten, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Donald, and daughter Lisa Lambert.

The family would like to thank Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Leonard Funeral Home for their loving care.

Ramona Sweeney

M. Ramona Sweeney, 95, of Dubuque died Thursday, March 27, 2025. A committal service will be held 9:30 am Wednesday, April 2, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery Chapel.

Ramona was born August 13, 1929 in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Clarence and Eve (Blake) Sweeney.

After graduating from St. Joseph Academy High School in Dubuque, she attended Mercy School of Nursing in Dubuque.  She then received her BSN from Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska and her MSN from Catholic University of America in Washinton DC.

She worked at various positions in nursing and retired from the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Des Moines.

She is survived by many nieces and nephews, including her niece Maureen Wagner and great nephew, Doug Gauer.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She was also preceded in death by her siblings and their spouses; Cy and Rosie Sweeney, Monica and Lee Steffen, Ed and Helen Sweeney,  Esther and Al Wagner, Bernadette Sweeney, Sally and Joe Van Zile, and Mark and Jeanette Sweeney.

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

Jerome J. Mistek

Jerome “Jerry” J. Mistek, 86, of Dubuque, IA, passed away March 26, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd is assisting the family.

Jerry was born November 16, 1938, in Ely, MN, to Joseph and Mary (Lobe) Mistek.

He attended Ely Public Schools in Ely, MN, and earned a B.E.E. degree from University of Minnesota. As Registered Professional Engineer in Iowa, he worked at Interstate Power Co. in Dubuque, IA, as an Electrical Engineer from 1966 to 1998. Retiring as the Manager of Communications and Metering.

Jerry married Aneta Hansen June 18, 1966, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Jackson, MN. Aneta preceded him in death on January 14, 2025.

Jerry served in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 to1962. He was a member of the NRA, ATA, and ISTA, and served as secretary for Shot Tower Sports.

He enjoyed time spent with family, especially at the Mistek cabin in Ely, MN, as well trap shooting, and reading.

Jerry is survived by his children; Jodi A. (Steve) Moore of St. Joseph, MO, Joseph G. Mistek of St. Joseph, MO; granddaughters, Jaime A. Moore and Kristen L. Moore of St. Joseph, MO, sister Mary Theresa (Missy) Davis of Danville, CA.

He is preceded in death by his wife Aneta Mistek, parents Joseph and Mary Mistek, and brother Carl T. Mistek.

Tina Smith

Tina M. Smith, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at Care Initiatives, Dubuque Specialty Care, with her family by her side.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the funeral home with Deacon David Roth officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Tina was born on August 18, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Joseph A. and Georgene M. (Nelson) Butlett. She worked as a beautician and hairdresser before joining Armstrong’s Department Store, where she met her husband. Later, she spent 11 years at Sears. She was united in marriage to her husband, Gary, on September 22, 1984, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

She loved playing bingo in her younger years, crocheting, and caring for her beloved cats. She also enjoyed watching a good soap opera, but above all, she cherished time with her family. In her final months, she often brought smiles to those around her with her favorite response to “How do you feel?”—“With my fingers.” Her humor and warmth will be deeply missed.

Tina is survived by her husband Gary, daughter Teresa Smith, siblings Debbie (Randy) Oberfoell, Irene (Bob) Ehlers, Randy (Jodi) Butlett, Lisa (Keith) Williams, and Clint (Rita) Butlett, brother-in-law Dave Smith, as well as several nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law Don & Effie Smith, brothers Joey and Greg (Kris) Butlett, and siblings-in-law Ron (Gladys) Smith and Karen Smith.

The family would like to thank Dubuque Specialty Care for all of their wonderful care of Tina, as well as Hospice of Manchester. The family would also like to thank her sisters Debbie Oberfoell and Irene Ehlers for all the special care and attention that they gave to Tina.

Cody A. Smothers

Cody A. Smothers, age 34, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque after a courageous battle with cancer.  There will be a Celebration of Cody’s life held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at the Lux Club, 3050 Asbury Road, from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Cody’s family.

Cody was born on October 27, 1990, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Lonnie Smothers and Patricia (Tuthill) Wernimont.

Cody attended Fulton Grade School, Jefferson Middle School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 2009.  He was a hard worker and began his working career helping out at Beanie’s Café.  He was later employed with Quad Graphics and as Team Lead in hinge doors for Anderson Window and Door.  Cody married the love of his life, Tasha Purdy, on October 9, 2020, at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.  Cody was a self proclaimed “nerd”.  He was extremely competitive and liked playing video games, tabletop games, cards, bowling, and disc golfing.  Cody also enjoyed watching movies, dancing and doing projects around the house with the kids.  His family meant the world to him and he was a great daddy!  Cody was happiest when he was with family and friends.  He will be greatly missed, and we will cherish all of the memories we have made together throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Cody’s memory include

his wife,
Tasha Purdy-Smothers, Dubuque, IA;

3 children,
Vance Eubanks, Isabella Smothers and Maya Smothers;

his mother,
Patricia Wernimont, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Rhonda Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Brian (Kelly) Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Angel Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
T.J. (Nicole) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Kay) Wernimont, Marl, Germany,
Josh (Karissa) Wernimont Dubuque, IA
and Tasha (Jake) Donath, East Dubuque, IL;

his father-in-law and mother-in-law,
Blaine and Pam Purdy, Sherrill, IA;

his in-laws,
Robert Purdy, Cedar Rapids, IA
and Brittany (Anthony Strub) Purdy, Dubuque, IA;

his other “brother”,
Jimmy Thomas, Dubuque, IA;

and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Cody was preceded in death by his father, Lonnie Smothers; his grandmother, June Tuthill; 2 uncles, Dan Tuthill and Rich “Tiny” Tuthill; and 2 aunts, Cindy Key and Sharon Armstrong.

Cody’s family would like to thank his co-workers at Anderson Window for the outpouring of support they have provided for Tasha and the entire family.  Also special thanks to Dr. Johlin with the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, the Holden Cancer Center and the entire ER staff of MercyOne Dubuque.

Cards and memorials in Cody’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Cody Smothers Family.  Donations may be made through their GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/cf1551ae

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

Donald J. Bohnsack

Donald Joseph Bohnsack, 91, of Galena, IL, sadly passed away on March 26, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his wife and children. A funeral mass will be held at 11:30 AM on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of the mass. Military honors will be presented at the church following the conclusion of the mass by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The burial will take place at a later date, as cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Donald was born on December 16, 1933, to Benjamin and Catherine (Yackey) Bohnsack. He graduated from Galena High School and, in 1953, enlisted in the United States Marine Corps with 10 other young men from Galena. He was stationed in California and Korea during the Korean War, achieving the rank of sergeant before being discharged in 1955. After his return from military service, he began his career as a State Trooper for the Illinois State Police, serving for 26 1/2 years until his retirement.

On October 3, 1970, he married Dorothy Vandermillen at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque. Together, they purchased a 100-acre farm on the outskirts of town, which they operated with the support of their friends and family. After many years of hard work, Don and Dorothy transitioned from farm life to build a home in the city, where they spent the next 37 years. Don’s retirement was short-lived, as he took a job as a tour director for Tri-State Tours. This position allowed him to explore all corners of the country while entertaining travelers on the buses.

In his younger years, he enjoyed fishing and took many pheasant-hunting trips to South Dakota with his friends. He had a deep love for birds and could quickly identify all the various visitors to his bird feeders, ensuring that the birds at his home were well-fed, often better than any other dinner guests.

Don is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Dorothy, and his children, Maria Bohnsack of Moweaqua, IL, and Andrew (Molly) Bohnsack of Madison, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings: Darlene, Delbert, Helen, Leroy, Violet, Loretta, Delos, and Jane.

A special thanks goes out to Don and Dorothy’s wonderful neighbors—Mark and Jamie Moran, Dan Balocca and Lauren Knapp, and Larry Cording—who have shown tremendous love and support over the years, and to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Michelle, and Jill for their care.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Jude’s in memory of Don.

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

Donald C. Zillig

Donald “Don” C. Zillig, age 84, of East Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family after a brief illness.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday April 5, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 170 Montgomery Ave., East Dubuque. IL, with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating. Visitation will precede the mass at the church from 9:00 -11:15 a.m. Interment will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery at a later date.

Don was born on October 3, 1940, son of Joseph and Alvera (Fluhr) Zillig. He attended grade school at St. Mary’s Catholic School in Dubuque. He was a proud graduate of the 1958 Class of Loras Academy.
He married Karen (Kay) Oliver on December 31, 1960, at St. Mary’s Church, East Dubuque.

Don was a salesman for the Dubuque Packing Company, FDL Marketing, and Hormel Foods before retiring in 2007. His career took him to the Des Moines area from 1985-2007 where he and Kay made many good friends. Upon retirement, they returned to East Dubuque and resided at their retirement home at Frentress Lake on the Mississippi River.

He was a senior member of the Jo Daviess County Board representing Dunleith Township Precinct No. 2 for 15 years. He thoroughly enjoyed the friendships and accomplishments made while he was on the board.

Don had a great sense of humor and created a home full of love and laughter. Don enjoyed spending time with his family and friends on the river, fishing, pheasant hunting, and golfing with his family members and friends at Lacoma Golf Club. He also enjoyed the weekly Wednesday gatherings of his high school buddies at Jumpers Sports Bar & Grill to eat and play Euchre.

Surviving Don are his wife of 64 years, Karen (Kay) Zillig; a son, Dan Zillig and his children Luke and Rachel Zillig, of Woodbury, MN; a daughter, Deb (Jerry) Bruns of Waukee, IA and their children Zach (Dani) Bruns of Ankeny, IA; Chelsey Bruns of West St. Paul, MN; and Ike (Emily) Bruns of Des Moines, IA; great-granddaughters, Perri Bruns and Margot Bruns; sister-in-law Jean Noonan of Dubuque; and sister in-law Carol (Wesley) Boal of Dubuque, IA; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, and his 5 older siblings, June (Leighton) Noonan, Richard “Rich” (Jean) Zillig, Charles “Chuck” (Nancy) Zillig, Joyce (Bob) MacFarlane, and John “Jack” (Barb) Zillig. And his in-laws Donald & Cecilia Oliver, Donald “Ollie” (Gerry) Oliver and Anne Meeks.

The family extends a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Diane, Morgan, Melanie & Stephanie, for all the help, support and guidance they offered.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque and the East Dubuque District Library.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home & Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road, Dubuque, IA 52002 is assisting the family.

Constance E. Weber

Constance E. Weber, 83, of Colesburg, Iowa passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at St. Patrick Parish Center in Colesburg. Funeral Mass will commence at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Colesburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John Haugen will officiate.

Constance was born on October 31, 1941, in Colesburg, Iowa, the daughter of Arnold and Marie (Lansing) Weber. She was a CNA for many years and received the Caring Heart Award from Finley Home Care, a testament to her love and care for her patients.

She loved to travel and explore, especially her trips to Europe and Hawaii. She was very joyous and full of love for all she knew and met. In her free time, she enjoyed art, poetry, reading, and history. She loved all animals, but had an unbreakable bond with her horses she adored for several years. Constance cherished her siblings, parents, and all of her nieces and nephews.

Survivors include her in-laws: Dick Haupert, Mary Weber, Deb Weber, in-laws: Betty Weber; and several nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Joseph Weber, Catherine (Roland) Westhoff, Alice (Charles) Nurre, Donna (John) Kruse, Joan (Ray) Nurre, Joe Weber, Angeline Haupert, Jim Weber, and John Weber.

The family would like to thank staff at MercyOne Senior Care, Hospice of Dubuque, and Ellen Kennedy Living Center for their compassionate care.

She will be greatly missed by all, but especially by her family and loving nieces and nephews.

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

William Burns

William “Bill” Burns, 84, of Asbury, IA died Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Bill will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father David Ambrosy as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Holy Family Cemetery in Peosta at a later date.

Bill was born on April 13, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, the son of William Joseph and Mary Frances (McEvoy) Burns. On June 12, 1981, he married Judith Dennis in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Bill graduated from Loras Academy at later Loras College. He worked in sales for an educational technology company and later as a substitute teacher at several schools in Dubuque.

Bill was a long time, faithful member of Resurrection Catholic Church and also was a member of That Man is You. He served on the board of the Village Co-op in Asbury. Bill enjoyed golfing and was known by his friends as Eagle Eye because he could always find the golf ball. He was also an avid Iowa Hawkeye and Loras Duhawk fan. Bill enjoyed gathering weekly with his long time friends from Loras Academy. Most of all, he loved interacting with people and always had a story to share.

Survivors include his loving wife, Judith Burns of Asbury; four siblings, Juliana (Dave) Cox of Dubuque, Dennis (Patti) Burns of Casa Grande, AZ, Sheila (Larry) Jansen of Springfield, MO, and Mary Frances Row of Overland Park, KS; one sister-in-law, Christine (Jason) Echard of McGregor, IA; one cousin, Mary Kay Ruden of Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Bill was preceded in death by one infant brother.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Dr. Engleman, Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and their Village Co-op family for all of the compassionate care and support given.

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

Lois M. Konzen

Lois M. Konzen, 91, of Farley, Iowa, passed away surrounded by family on Monday, March 24, 2025, at her home in Farley.

Visitation for Lois will be held from 2 to 8 p.m., on Monday, March 31, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m., and the Legion Auxiliary services will be held at 7 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 1 at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Lois will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

Lois was born on October 17, 1933, in Farley, Iowa, daughter of James and Mabel (Wall) O’Meara.  She was a 1951 graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley.  On February 24, 1954, she was united in marriage to James T. Konzen at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.   He preceded her in death on August 12th, 2010.  Lois worked at Ertl’s in Dyersville, John Deere Dubuque Works in Dubuque, and Troy’s Truck Stop in Farley until her retirement.

She is a member of the St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.  She was also a member of the Farley American Legion Auxiliary Post #656 of 71 years

Those left to cherish her memory are her five children, Jerry (Lynn) Konzen of Farley, Ray Konzen of Albuquerque, NM, Steve Konzen of Farley, Judy (David) Trenkamp of Pheonix, AZ, and Jane (Kenneth) Bolsinger of Colesburg; daughter-in-law, Pat O’Meara of Washington; 14 grandchildren; 31 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; three siblings, James (Carol) O’Meara of Des Moines, June Brandenburg, and Helen (Bill) Hartman both of Epworth; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary (Elmer) Robey of Belle Vista, AR, Elaine Konzen of Dyersville, and Lois Konzen of Cascade; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister, Mary (Kenny) Hartman; son, Larry O’Meara on February 15, 2012; daughter-in-law, Millie Konzen; father and mother-in-law, Frank and Elizabeth (Neumann) Konzen; brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard Brandenburg, Ardell (Carl) Craugh, Frank Konzen, Clarence Konzen, Fredrick Konzen, Lloyd (Mary) Konzen; and two great great grandchildren.

Online condolence may be given to the family at www.reifffuenralhomeinc.com

Thomas A. Fessler

Thomas Andrew Fessler, 81, of Dubuque, IA, passed away March 21, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 11, 2025, at the Church of the Nativity, 115 Alta Vista Street.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Inurnment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Tom was born March 4, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa to Victor and Mary Rita (Marshall) Fessler. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1962, and married Pamela Dow on July 27, 1968, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa.

Tom was a Police Officer for the City of Dubuque for 32 years. He was the former president and member of the Dubuque police officer’s association, member of the Dubuque Story Book Children’s Zoo Board, lifelong member of Nativity parish, and built bluebird houses for Swiss Valley for the Dubuque County conservation.

Tom was a loving husband of 56 years to his wife Pam. He was an amazing father to two wonderful daughters. His grandchildren described him as compassionate, strong, determined and brave. He was a dedicated public servant for 32 years. During his lifetime Tom was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was loved by many and will be missed every day.

He is survived by his wife Pamela Fessler; daughters, Rachel (John) Jennings, and Sarah (Justin) Friske; Four grandchildren, Madilyn Jennings, Thomas Jennings, Paige Friske, and Evelyn Friske; brother, Victor Fessler, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents Victor and Mary Rita Fessler, brother Robert Fessler, sister Rita Jean Moser, and “brother from another mother” Fred Timmerman.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque and the Dubuque Food Pantry.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the caregivers at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque.

Randy C. Steward

Mr. Randy Charles “Stew” Steward, age 65, of Lafayette, GA, died Monday, March 3,2025 at CHI Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, TN.

There will be a Celebration of Life on March 29th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Frentress Lake Marina Bar and Grill (formerly the Silver Eagle Event Center). 818 Gill Road, East Dubuque, IL 61025. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Randy “Stew” was born September 24th, 1959, in Dewitt, Iowa, son of the late Larry Guy Steward and Sandra June “Sandy” Baker Sommers. He concluded over 40 years of service as a wrestling coach and teacher, most recently at Trion High School.

Randy has many coaching accolades, being named Coach of the Year on multiple occasions. He was inducted into several Hall of Fames, including the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Georgia chapter, Loras College Hall of Fame, Central Dewitt High School Hall of Fame, the Georgia High School Wrestling Hall of Fame, and N.W.C.A. Hall of Fame. Randy also sat on many boards. He was truly a Steward of life.

His family will remember him with great love. He was the type of person who would help anyone. He valued hard work, honesty and value of a man’s word. To his children he was loving but fair. He made sure to instill his values on them as well as the importance of family and being there for each other. To his wife, he was loving and caring and always made sure she was taken care of. His devotion to her was unwavering, and his kindness and support were a constant source of comfort. He was an alpha male and loved to prove it. He loved music and he died a happy man.

Randy’s favorite things in life were wrestling, his family and his dogs (Zoey, Stella, Remy, Phoenix, and Josie). He loved water activities, and putzing around the yard with the dogs, and being outdoors. He was living out his dream, on his recent property, and will always be remembered.

It’s not often that a man has the opportunity to impact the lives of so many young men, but he did so with passion and dedication. He not only mentored and guided them but also took great joy in staying connected with them long after their paths first crossed. His influence was lasting, and his presence will be deeply missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Marty Steward, an uncle, Rick Ehrler, lifelong friend, Rob McReynolds and his beloved dog, Dixie.

Those left to cherish his memories…

His wife, Lori Duggan Steward, son, Jake Randall Steward (Hailee Peardon), daughter Helen Mae Steward; granddaughter, Hattie Rae Steward; brother, Tony (Donna) Steward, sister Tammi (Jim) Jaeger; stepchildren, Emily (Jim) Roling, Eric (Lindsey) Behnke, Liz (Chris) Brewer, Evan (Sarah) Behnke, Ellen (Quentin) Mensen and step grandchildren, Maddie Roling, Amelia Taylor, Paige and Hannah Behnke, Taylor, Drake and Sophia Brewer, Liam Behnke, Logan Mensen, and many nieces and nephews, also with the wrestling community who became Sons of Stew.

Harry F. Lunde

Harry FitzJohn Lunde, 77, of Galena, IL, passed away Monday, March 24, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. A private family burial will occur at Rock Island Arsenal Veterans Cemetery in Rock Island, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born in Chicago on December 5, 1947, the son of Frederick and Helen (FitzJohn) Lunde (some Galena residents may remember her as Helen Nixon). Harry graduated from Tinley Park High School with the class of 1966. He enlisted in the United States Army on October 13, 1970, and served until his honorable discharge on May 9, 1972. Harry married Bonnie Stach on October 30, 1976, at the United Methodist Church in Galena. He held various jobs in Chicago and Dubuque, IA, until his early retirement. Following retirement, he worked for ten happy years on the ground crew for the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa.

Harry is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Cox, and his two sons, Dan (Dede) Livingston and Nathan (Lindsay) Lunde. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lynda Laucke.

Instead of flowers, memorials may be given to the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation in memory of Harry.

He lived his life by a simple motto: “Truly Grateful.”

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

Allen P. Trebian

It is with profound sadness that the family of Allen P. Trebian announces his unexpected passing on March 21, 2025, at the age of 59. A celebration of his life will be held later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL, is assisting the family.

Allen was born in Galena on August 30, 1965, to Duane and Alberta (Staver) Trebian. He graduated from Galena High School in 1983. He went on to attend Clarke University in Dubuque, IA, where he pursued his love of art, gaining extensive knowledge of P.B.R. instead of obtaining an academic certificate.

In October 2004, Allen married Tammy L. Bolton. He worked as a property manager at Las Brisas Farm and Polo Club in Elgin, IL, where he will be deeply missed by Larry and Brisas Aschebrook, along with the many friends he made throughout his life. He dedicated himself to providing for his family, and his second greatest devotion was his remarkable sense of humor and numerous talents, which endeared him to everyone around him. Allen was known as a jack of all trades and the “master of all,” serving as a best friend, father, husband, brother, and son. He created a sense of community wherever he went.

Allen used his many talents as the co-owner of the Common Cents Resale store in Elizabeth, IL, alongside his beloved wife, Tammy. He was the kind of person who would literally give the shirt off his back to anyone in need and always had a quick wit to brighten someone’s day.

He is survived by his “bitchy” wife of 20 years, Tammy; his son, Harley, who shares his father’s caring traits; his siblings, Rose, Carol, Bernard, Dennis, and Helene; many nieces and nephews; his in-laws, Thomas and Patricia Bolton.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Skyler Trebian; a brother, Carl Trebian; and a nephew, Andrew Trebian.

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