Obituaries Archive

Robert R. Wiederholt

Robert Rudolph Wiederholt, 93, of Dubuque, died Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 1:00 pm Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 5:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Robert will be 10:30 am Monday, February 12, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Robert was born July 9, 1930, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Francis and Margaret (Ludwig) Wiederholt. On June 30, 1956, he married Donna C. Hohnecker at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Robert graduated from Loras Academy. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran, serving in Korea from January 30, 1952 until January 29, 1954. After his honorable discharge from the service he worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 31 years.

Robert was a lifelong member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir. Robert was a member of the American Legion Post #6 for over 60 years and the U.A.W. Retirees. He was also a train enthusiast and loved to travel.

Survivors include his wife, Donna of Dubuque; three children, Rosalyn Langkamp of East Dubuque, IL; Alan (Dr. Karen) Wiederholt of Honolulu, HI; and Peter (Kelly) Wiederholt of O’Fallon, IL; eight grandchildren, Andrew (Beth) Simon, Amanda Wlochal, Amber (Nick) Healey, Brett (Stephanie) Langkamp, Matthew (Anne) Wiederholt, Jessica Wiederholt, Nathan (Anne) Wiederholt, James Wiederholt-Yamaguchi; 10 great-grandchildren with one due in May; and one brother, Gerald (Susan) Wiederholt of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two daughters, Theresa Simon and Dr. Roberta Wiederholt, DVM; and two brothers, Floyd (Mary) Wiederholt and Donald (Delores) Wiederholt.

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

Mary Kay Hurst

Mary Kay (Petitgout) Hurst, 80, of Asbury, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 11:32 p.m. Friday, February 2, 2024, at Mayo Clinic Hospital, Phoenix, AZ.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on February 12, 2024, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be recited at 9:45 a.m.

Mary Kay was born on March 4, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Laurence J. and Jean A. (Fleege) Petitgout.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1961. Mary Kay was united in marriage to James R. “Jim” Hurst on February 20, 1965, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Mary loved spending time with her grandchildren and grand puppies. She enjoyed spending time with the friends and neighbors during her visits to Arizona but was always glad to get back home in the spring. She will be joining two very special friends that she missed dearly, Barbara and Rochelle.

Surviving is her husband, Jim; two daughters, Julie Hurst of Peoria, Arizona and Christie (Jesse) Dalsing of Hazel Green, Wisconsin.

Five grandchildren, Pamela Hunt, Justin Hunt, Zack (Felicia Dufek) Lee of Surprise, Arizona, Mackenzie Hurst of Phoenix, Arizona and Zander Dalsing of Hazel Green, Wisconsin; and a brother, Dan Petitgout of East Dubuque, sister-in-law, Kathy Petitgout; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sons, Steven M.,

Thomas F. Heying

Thomas F. Heying, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.  A private Catholic burial service was held at Behr Funeral Home on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial was in the family plot at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Tom was born on March 21, 1938, to Cletus and Germaine (Gassmann) Heying.

Tom was a graduate of St. Patrick’s School, Loras Academy and Loras College, Class of 1960.  Following graduation Tom enrolled in combat ready training at Fort Dix, N.J., during the Vietnam War.  Thankfully he was not called in the draft to active duty.

Tom then began his career in management with K-Mart Corporation during the 1960’s.  He was transferred around the country as new stores were opening staying on as store manager.  He was then transferred to K-Mart Headquarters as a buyer for K-Mart.  He remained in Troy, MI, until returning to Dubuque.

Tom was blessed with a good, happy, fulfilled life with family, friends and his faith.  He enjoyed travels in and out of the U.S., and meeting many interesting people along the way.  Tom had many interests and especially enjoyed sports, attending Super Bowls, The Masters and The Kentucky Derby.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and his brother-in-law, Glenn Stefano.

He is survived by his sister, Nancy Stefano, several cousins and his lifelong friends.

A life well lived Tom.  Now rest in peace.

A heartfelt thank you to Marvin Ney and his staff from Paramount Ambulance, nurse Julie H. at Dubuque Specialty Care, Dr. Chapman and Dr. Jennifer Mohr at Medical Associates and the staff at Stonehill Care Center from many departments who were caring and kind to Tom.  Especially those on 1 South and 1 North who were caring and kind to Tom in his last difficult years.

Randy E. Wold

Randy Edward Wold, 62, of Dubuque, passed away February 5, 2024, in Dubuque, IA. Visitation will be 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, where a prayer service will be held at 6:00 p.m. with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.

Randy was born on May 21, 1961, in Dubuque to Richard Edward Wold and Karen (Deeny) Wold.  He graduated from Hempstead High School.  For many years, he owned and operated Vacationland Boat sales.  He was hard-working and well known as an excellent boat mechanic and overall handy man. He enjoyed camping and boating with his family on the Mississippi River.  He was an outgoing individual who could, and often would, talk your ear off, and he will be greatly missed by those whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his mother Karen, his children Ryan (Jenna) Wold, Hannah Wold, Nicholas Wold, and Alex Wold; his grandchildren Brody and Bennett; his siblings Kim (Jim) Chapman, and Jason (Darcy) Wold and former wife Peggy (Dodds) Wold.

He was preceded in death by his father Richard Wold and niece Carrie Chapman.

Mark N. Johnson

Mark N. Johnson, 35, of Dubuque passed away unexpectedly after a hard fought battle with mental illness on Wednesday, February 6, 2024.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 10th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Matt Agee officiating.

Mark was born March 13, 1988, in Dubuque, IA to David K. and Debra S. (Every) Johnson.

He attended Hempstead High School and graduated from Central Alternative School in 2006.

Our precious son Mark was called home to his Heavenly Father.  Mark loved his family and his sweet rescue dog, Zoey.  His interests included cars, dogs, and hunting.  He was a gifted writer, artist and loved music.  Mark was incredibly smart and had a lot to offer the world, but sadly he was plagued by serious mental illness.  As much as we all wanted him to live a fulfilling life, he just wasn’t able to continue on.  We would all like to think that love could have saved him, but his pain was unbearable.

We know he now resides with our Heavenly Father, and we will be reunited in that glorious paradise.

Mark is survived by his parents David and Debra Johnson; siblings Natalie C. Johnson and Benjamin J. Johnson; his sweet dog Zoey; paternal grandmother Mary Jo Johnson, and maternal grandmother Juleen Every; uncles John Johnson, Jim Johnson, and Dave Every; aunts Sharon Wolbers, Kelly Vsetecka, and Valerie Every.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather John Johnson, and maternal grandfather Leland Every.

If someone you know is struggling with mental illness and or substance abuse, please reach out to do whatever possible to get better.  Please call the suicide crisis hotline at 988.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Mark’s name may be sent to NAMI of Dubuque and the Dubuque Humane Society.

The family would like to express a thank you to family and friends for their support through the years and especially now during this difficult time.

Mark, fly high with the angels.  We will love you forever and always.

Donna J. Kinsella

Donna J. Kinsella, 79, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, 10204 Key West Drive, Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Interment will be at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque.

Donna was born September 10, 1944 in Dubuque, the daughter of Norbert and Violet (Klein) Roling. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1962. Donna married Jerald M. Kinsella on September 4, 1965 at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in St. Catherine’s. Jerry preceded her in death on August 16, 2023.

Donna and Jerry loved to go out dancing, especially at Timmerman’s. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother, baking chocolate pie especially for Jerry, and always stocking the grandkid’s favorite candy bars in her purse. Donna was very creative, and enjoyed home décor, cake decorating, and flower arranging. Halloween was a favorite of Donna’s- she loved to dress up and scare the grandkids. Donna also enjoyed golfing with her friends, and beating the Irishmen at Euchre.

Donna is survived by two daughters, Jodi (James) Vormezeele, of East Dubuque, IL, and Tonya (Marty) Hayes, of Dubuque; four grandsons (who were the light of her life), Tyler and Bailey Vormezeele, and Charlie and Ben Hayes; three siblings, Duane “Fred” (Judy) Roling, Elaine (Maurice) Schmerbach, and Marilyn Roling; and three brothers-in-law, James (Maggie Bockenstedt) Kinsella, Robert (Irene Sisler) Kinsella, and Kenneth (Penney) Kinsella.

In addition to her husband, Donna was preceded in death by her parents; and her niece, Karen.

Donna’s daughters would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to “Guggenheimer”, “Louie”, and all the amazing nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

Theresa M. Merkes

Theresa M. Merkes, 87, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, February 7, 2024, surrounded by family at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection followed by visitation until 8:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Theresa will be 10:30 am Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Theresa was born November 1, 1936, in Worthington, IA, the daughter of Alfred and Malvina Bonert Offermann. On November 24, 1959, she married Aloysius “Al” Peter Merkes at St. Francis Basilica in Dyersville, IA. He passed away December 1, 2014.

Most of her life, she helped her husband on their farm. After retirement from farming, she worked at Burger King.

She was a long-time member of Church of the Resurrection. She was a great baker and her family loved her apple pie. She was always feeding people and everyone loved her treats. She loved to play Euchre, dancing, taking care of her cats, and spending time with her grandchildren. One day, shortly after Al passed away, a guinea fowl showed up at her home. They formed a special bond and “adopted” each other. She called him “Guinea”.

Survivors include six sons, Paul (Valerie Canby) Merkes of Peosta, IA, Mark (Terri) Merkes of Dubuque, Pat (Sandy) Merkes of Epworth, IA, Mike (Tammy) Merkes of Dubuque, Roger (Christina) Merkes of Holy Cross, IA, and Kevin (Cindy) Merkes of Dubuque; 28 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Doris A. Offerman of New Vienna, IA, and Doris M. Offermann of Earlville, IA; and one brother-in-law, Joel Glennon of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Leon and Ernie Offermann, two sisters, Norma (William) Stevens and Lois (James) Jasper.

A memorial has been established.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque and especially the staff at Hawkeye Assisted Living Memory Care Unit for taking special care of Theresa.

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

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

Dorothy C. Vorwald

Dorothy C. Vorwald, 100, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 4, 2024, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Monday, February 12 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Dorothy was born on January 17, 1924, in Worthington, Iowa, the daughter of Nicholas and Emma (Brunkan) Dunkel.  She married Francis Vorwald on November 5, 1947, in Dyersville.  Together they raised their family and farmed between Dyersville and Worthington until retirement in 1991.

Survivors include her children: Ron (Mary) Vorwald of Worthington, Jean (Don) Krapfl of New Vienna, Julie (Roger) Boge of Earlville, Mark (Linda) Vorwald of Worthington;10 grandchildren: Tim (Melanie) Krapfl, Kathy (Dean) Welter, Traci (Steve) Burlage, Becky (Jim) Mudd, Kristy (Kevin) Russ, Charles Vorwald, Jennifer (Arnie) Bruns, Samantha (John) Karels, Matthew (Megan)Vorwald and Valerie (Tim) Schaffer; 17 great grandchildren; in-laws: Marilyn Vorwald and Shirley Vorwald both of Colesburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Frannie in 2010, siblings: Nick (Joan) Dunkel, Eileen (Roy) Sperfslage, Helen Heims-Bonert, Ruth (Gerald) Stronck, Bernice Dunkel, Herbert (Diane) Dunkel, Bernard (Rosie) Dunkel, Rev. Henry Dunkel, Lavern (Marie) Dunkel and James (Lorraine) Dunkel; in-laws: Vince (Rosie) Vorwald, Robert (Germaine) Vorwald, Jerry Vorwald, Ramona (David) Engelken, Anna Mae Vorwald, Kathryn (Louis) Mescher, Mary (Ray) Berg.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Arlene R. Weirup

Arlene R. Weirup, 86, of Baldwin, Iowa, died on Tuesday morning, February 6, 2024, at Addington Place in Clinton, Iowa.

Arlene Renee Farris was born on July 2, 1937, in Austin, Minnesota, to Ollie Ray and Beatrice Maxine (Chase) Farris.  Arlene’s adventurous early years were spent exploring Minnesota, California, Colorado, and Wyoming before settling in Iowa. She married Alvin Weirup, and they resided on the farm near Baldwin, Iowa.    

Arlene was an impeccable accountant, had served as the postmaster of the Baldwin, Iowa Post Office, and had worked at WALMART in Maquoketa for several years. 

Arlene had been a member of the Merry Knitter’s Club and had served as the accountant and on the board of directors of the Jackson County Senior Citizen Center.

Those left to honor her memory include 7 children; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a brother.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Alvin on April 16, 2020, 3 brothers and 1 sister.

A celebration of her life will held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 12, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, or any children’s charity.

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

Florence F. Puls

Florence F. Puls, age 99, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:05 p.m., on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by her loving family. 

To honor Florence’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 3:45 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 Saint Joseph Street with Very Rev. Brian M. Dellaert officiating.  Burial will be in St. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.

Florence was born on January 19, 1925, in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Joseph J. and Clara (Frommelt) Behr. 

Florence attended grade school in Sherrill at St. Peter and Paul School and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy, Class of 1941.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Alfred Puls, on June 16, 1945, in Dubuque.  They raised their family and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary together before Al passed away on January 30, 2016.  Florence was very devoted to her Catholic faith and was a long time member of St. Joseph the Worker Church where she helped out with whatever was needed.  She was very devoted to her family and for several years she took her father-in-law who lived at Bethany Home out to lunch regularly at Bishop’s Buffet.  After he passed away she continued to volunteer running the gift shop at Bethany Home and serving for 25 years with the service organization at Stonehill.  She was honored to received an award from the governor for her efforts. 

Al worked Bingo for the Lions Club in East Dubuque and Florence often accompanied him there playing 25 cards simultaneously.  Florence also enjoyed going to the Circle in East Dubuque where Al worked the door to listen to music and enjoy a beverage or two with friends.  Family was always her top priority.  Florence not only raised her own children, but took in extended family members.  She was a kind hearted woman and she truly loved caring for others.  This world has been blessed to have Florence for 99 years.  We will miss her greatly, but know that she is now resting peacefully.

Those left to cherish Florence’s memory include:

Her children, Roger (Cathy) Puls, Sandy, OR; Linda Sangston, Dubuque, IA; Thomas (Cathy) Puls, Dubuque, IA; Deb Puls, Dubuque, IA; Terry (Janet) Puls, Cummings, GA; John (Kathy) Puls, Davenport, IA; and Martin (Jennifer Haas) Puls, Lowell, AR;

Daughter-in-law, Pat Puls, Dubuque, IA

22 grandchildren, Jeff Puls, Amy (Morgan Viggers) Puls, Jason (Lena) Puls, Shannon (Joseph) Monroe, Thomas Sangston, Jimmy (Bernadette) Sangston, Mark (Marcie) Sangston, Debbie Sangston, Jennifer (Eric Lientz) Sangston, Christopher Sangston, Jonathan (Ludmila) Puls, Melissa (Robert) Scigliano, Nicholas Puls, Jennifer (David) Rhomberg, Sarah (Doug) Harris, Shelby (Bill) Bryce, Emma (Lucas Delort) Puls, Tyler (Lexi) Puls, Katie (Dillon Juillerat) Puls, Jared Puls, Connor (Chelsea Buechele) Puls and Lindsay (fiancé Daniel Rodriguez) Puls;

30 great-grandchildren, Amber Puls, Claire Monroe, William Monroe, Chase Puls, Kevin Sangston, Geoffrey Sangston, Amanda Sangston, Tasha (Danny) Davis, Levi Lientz, Luke Lientz, Logan Lientz, Marcus Borges, Larissa Puls, Samuel Scigliano, Liliana Scigliano, Jacob Scigliano, Clara Puls, Amelia Puls, Gabby Puls, Madeline (fiancé Daniel Shaw) Rhomberg, Rachel Rhomberg, Grace Rhomberg, Isabella Rhomberg, Carter Harris, Ava Harris, Mila Harris, Lyla Harris, Billy Bryce, Christian Bryce and Kais Juillerat;

One very treasured great-great-granddaughter, Kirra Davis

And her sister-in-law, Nancy Behr.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alfred Puls; a son, Timothy Puls; a son-in-law, Charles Sangston; and her siblings, Irv (Lorraine) Behr, Millie (Norm) Spahn, Joseph J. Behr Jr., and Melvin Behr in infancy.

Florence’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kim, for the outstanding care they have provided for Florence.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Florence’s memory, which will be distributed among her favorite charities, and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Florence Puls Family.

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

Ronald L. Walton

Ronald L. “Ron” Walton, age 75, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:25 a.m., on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Sunnycrest Manor. 

To honor Ron’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Stephanie Schlimm officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Ron was born on July 15, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert A. and Bessie Mae (White) Walton. 

Ron did piece work through Area Residential Care for several years.  He enjoyed collecting coins and always looked forward to visitors bringing him something new for his collection.  He loved attending family functions, with reunions at Eagle Point Park being one of his favorite activities.  Ron also liked to watch sports, especially enjoying the cheerleaders.  Ron had a gentle heart and a kind personality.  He enjoyed the simple things in life and brought a smile to the faces of all those around him.  We will all miss him.

Those left to cherish Ron’s memory include his brother, Thomas Walton, Dubuque, IA.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, George Walton, Richard Walton, Donald Walton, Anna Jane Brinsky, Janet Walton, Robert E. Walton and Ralph Walton.

Ron’s family would like to thank all of the wonderful staff at Area Residential Care and Sunnycrest Manor for the outstanding care and friendship they have provided for Ron these past years.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Ron’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ronald Walton Family.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, Wis., or given online at www.sinsinawa.org/donate.  

Sister Mark O’Loughlin

Sister Mark O’Loughlin, OP, died Feb. 4, 2024, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, Wis. Her wake and funeral Mass will take place Friday, Feb. 16, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Dominic Villa Chapel. Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, Ill., is handling arrangements.  

 Cleopha (Sister Mark’s baptismal name) was born Aug. 7, 1927, to Daniel and Bertha (Roberts) O’Loughlin in Kankakee, Ill. She made profession with the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa in 1954 and received the religious name of Sister Mark. She received a BA in speech and drama from Rosary College, River Forest, Ill., and a master’s in social work from Loyola University of Chicago.  

Sister Mark’s ministry has been dedicated to teaching, counseling, and social work. In Illinois, she taught at Trinity High School, River Forest; and Visitation High School, Chicago, where she also served as counselor. She also served as counselor at Visitation Grade School, Chicago; SS. Faith, Hope, and Charity, Winnetka; St. Viator, Arlington Heights; and Weber High School, Chicago. In Wisconsin, Sister Mark taught at Newman High School, Wausau. She also ministered in Wyoming and Washington, D.C.  

Sister Mark was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Daniel; and a sister, Marie Monahan. She is survived by her nephews Edward, James, and Michael Monahan, and her Dominican Sisters. Memorials may be made to the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, Wis., or given online at www.sinsinawa.org/donate.  

Larry L. Putman

Larry L. Putman, 68, passed away after a courageous fight against cancer on Monday, February 5, 2024.  Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Friday, February 9, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:30 am – 10:30 am on Friday, prior to Mass at the funeral home.  Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Larry was born November 16, 1955, the son of David E. and Thelma J. (Stuart) Putman.  He graduated from Bellevue Community High School in 1974.  Larry served his country in the US Air Force 1975-1976.  He married his high-school sweetheart Ruth Steines on June 24, 1978.  He worked at John Deere Works Dubuque and later at Flexsteel until his retirement in 2017.  Larry enjoyed spending time on the river as a commercial fisherman with family, especially his son Ryan. He loved spending time with family and friends, listening to country music, watching sports and cheering on the IOWA HAWKEYES.  He was a 9 year kidney transplant survivor (donated by his son Austin) and was able to enjoy many special moments these last several years with his family.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth; children, Andrea (Shane) Besler, Ryan (Rachael) Putman, and Austin (Olivia) Putman; grandchildren, Keaton, Ambrielle, Alyse, Aubrey, Blake, Brycen, Joelle, and Levi; siblings, David (Cindy) Putman, Cheryl Budde, and Connie (Pete) Anderson; sisters and brothers in-law, Norma Meyer, Dick (Marcia) Steines, Jim (Laurie) Steines, Barb Ries, Joyce Davids, Brenda (Terry) Bronson, Linda (Joey) Michels, and Lisa (Ron) VanNatta; his mother in-law, Eldora Steines; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Steve (Rita) Putman, Dick Meyer, Bill Meyer, and Dixie Putman; brothers in-law, Bob Ries, Bob Davids, Glenn Budde; and his father in-law, Glenn Steines.

The family would like to thank the University of Iowa Cancer & Transplant Centers, Hope Lodge, Dr. John E. Whalen, Dr. Jeffrey Hunter, Veterans Affairs and the Bellevue EMS for their wonderful care.

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

Mary Ann Drees

Mary Ann Drees, 98, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at her home surrounded by loving family.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville followed by a 1 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.  Fr. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Mary Ann was born on July 29, 1925 on the family farm in Dyersville, Iowa, the daughter of Henry and Catherine (Tegeler) Gerken.  She married James Drees on June 9, 1948 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa. Together, they farmed and raised their family west of Dyersville until moving to Dyersville in 2001.

Mary Ann was a lifetime member of St. Francis Xavier Parish. Faith and family were the center of Mary Ann’s life; she prayed the rosary daily. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America. She enjoyed gardening and nourishing her many flowers. She was an excellent cook, baker, and enjoyed hosting for family gatherings. She lovingly teased with her family and friends and had a great sense of humor. She enjoyed cards, puzzles, St. Louis Cardinals, and time with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially the babies.

Survivors include her children: Dennis (Deb) of Iowa City, Iowa, Daniel (Mary) of Durango, Iowa, Debra (Norb) McClimon of Dyersville, Iowa, Darrell (Cheri) of Petaluma, Calif., Darla Budden of Petersburg, Iowa, Diane Drees of Dyersville, Iowa, Dawn (Gary) Olberding of Dyersville, Iowa and Delynn (Dave) Fangman of Asbury, IA, and a special niece, Sr. Lynn Marie Fangman, PBVM, of Dubuque; 19 grandchildren: Kari (Jake) Beltz, Matt (BreAnn) Drees, Emily(Matt) Maiers, Libby (Garrett) Seligman, Brad (Jenn) McClimon, Ted (Kathy) McClimon, Tim (Meagan) McClimon, Lindsay (Gaston) Sueldo, Bryan (Grace) Drees, Sarah (Ashley Selbert) Drees, Jesse (Amber) Drees, Toby Budden, Katie (Corey) McAfee, Joseph (Callie) Budden, Nick Budden, Molly (Charlie Fast) Olberding, Rob (fiance, Kendra Bushman) Olberding, Brent (Sarah) Fangman, Abbie (Matt) Nohr; and 28 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James, one son in infancy, son-in-law, Rick Budden; siblings:  Lorraine (Charlie) Fangman, Bernard (Irene) Gerken, Charles (Cora) Gerken, Catherine (Robert) Megel, Leo (Julie) Gerken, Vernita (Roy) Frericks; in-laws: Charles (Lee) Drees, David (Janet) Drees.

The family would like to thank Kelli McDermott, Janet Hall, and Sherry Krapfl for their compassionate care and support to Mary Ann and the entire Drees family. Also a thank you to the staff at Hospice of Dubuque.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Randy R. Laufenberg

Randy R. Laufenberg, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on February 1, 2024, at Mercy Hospital, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Randy’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Randy’s family.

Randy was born on October 11, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Roy M. and Jeanette E. (Pfeiffer) Laufenberg.  He was raised with a strong work ethic in conjunction with an unwavering moral compass.  His word was his bond and he found great pride in living out his years as such.  Randy was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and immediately signed up to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Upon returning home, Randy trained as a welder which led him to employment at John Deere Dubuque Works.  He also spent time employed at Younkers and Key City Moving, then retired from Mi-T-M as a welder.

Randy was blessed with a full life outside of work as well and found numerous ways to spend his free-time.  At the age of 4, Randy discovered his love for motorcycles and spent countless hours throughout the years burning up miles and touring on his Goldwing with his boys and best friend, Terry right by his side.  They made many trips to Colorado and were always up for local runs whenever possible.  Randy was also a gifted musician who played guitar in several bands in his high school years and always treasured the garage band days where all were invited to enjoy some good music.  He also spent many early morning hours fishing with his dad, sons and grandchildren.  But, for those who truly knew and loved Randy, his greatest joy was found in the  title of “Grandpa.” He also had a love for canines and always had one by his side throughout the years.  Randy was a loyal and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who strived to play each role to the best of his abilities and continually reaffirm that those he loved and adored knew it was so.

It’s beyond difficult to process the sudden absence of Randy’s love and light from our physical lives, but we know that he was tired of fighting his earthly battles over these recent years and only wanted peace where it could be found.  Thank you, Randy, for never giving up when you were on the right track, for listening more than talking when appropriate, and for leading by example in your words, thoughts, and actions in such a manner that your legacy will be clearly felt and seen in the generations you leave behind now.  We pray that the Lord will provide the comfort we seek while granting Randy the peace he deserves, and may the abundance of wonderful memories we possess hold us securely until we can all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Randy include,

his beautiful wife of 27 years,
Victoria “Vicky” (Johnson) Laufenberg, Dubuque, IA;

his sons,
Jason (Amanda) Laufenberg,
and Kyle (Amber) Laufenberg, both of Dubuque;

his step-sons,
Ed (Jenifer) Pickel, St. Donatus, IA,
and Tony Pickel, Peosta, IA;

his five adored grandchildren,
Kelsey, Luke, Carter, and Layne Laufenberg, and Avery Pickel;

his two sisters,
Linda (Jan) Scott, Dubuque,
and Lori (Dick) Launspach, Sherrill, IA;

his nieces and nephews,
Jared (Angie) Wolfe, Dubuque,
J.W. (Angelia) Henslee, Dubuque,
Dana (Tyler) McAtee, Peosta,
Miles Launspach, Madison, WI,
Sarah (Ben) Biver, Dubuque,
and Katie (Josh) Malli, Northwood, IA;

his great-nieces and nephews,
Connor Wolfe, Lincoln and Everley Henslee, Emma, Bo, and Olivia McAtee, Jacob, Sean and Derek Biver, and Olivia Lang;

his sister-in-law,
Kathy (Steve) Jaeger, Dubuque;

his brother-in-law,
Ron Johnson, Dubuque;

his best friend,
Terry (Linda) Weidemann, Dubuque;

his ex-wife,
Cindy Stuart, Dubuque;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; his mother and father-in-law, Bill and Beverly White; his brother-in-law, Jay Johnson; and his great-nephew, Bradley Schmitt.

Randy’s family would like to thank Dr. Ram, Dr. Johnston at UIHC, nurse Sarah in the ICU at Mercy, and the Dubuque Fire Department for all of their professional and compassionate care of Randy and his family during his last moments with us.  Your kindness and gentleness helped to bring a little peace into our hearts and minds during a very difficult time and for that we are forever grateful.

Online condolences may be shared with Randy’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com