Obituaries Archive

Marilynn K. Simpson

Marilynn Kay Simpson (Marilynn Blake), age 81, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on October 31, 2025, after a period of declining health.

She was born on January 22, 1944, in Calamus, Iowa, the daughter of Leonard Sr. and Hazel (Macomber) Chase. Marilynn was raised and schooled in the Calamus area. She married at age 18 and four years later became a devoted mother to the first of her five children. Marilynn’s greatest joy and vocation was being a wife, mother, and homemaker, and she took immense pride in her family.

Marilynn loved being social. She was an avid dancer and loved listening to country and gospel music. A true nature lover, Marilynn had a passion for cultivating her flower gardens, which were a source of great pride and documented in countless pictures she loved to share. Over the years, she was blessed with many loving dogs, and Marilynn’s favorite breed was the miniature poodle. Other cherished pastimes included playing cards, sewing, and baking—she even baked wedding cakes for others during different periods of her life. Marilynn’s family and friends will forever treasure the memory of her warmth and contagious laugh.

Marilynn is survived by four of her loving children:  Timothy (Julia) Blake of Iowa City, IA, Theresa Blake of Dubuque, IA, Brendalyn Blake of Shawnee, KS, Susan (Ken) Royster of Lee’s Summit, MO.

She also leaves behind her grandchildren: Giovanni (Tohco) Caniglia of Overland Park, KS, Logan Faley of Lee’s Summit MO, and William Royster of Independence, MO; and great-grandchildren: Braelyn and Olivia Faley.

Marilynn is also survived by her siblings: Sharon (Richard) Schwein of Calamus, IA, Leonard, Jr. (Patty) Chase of Basco, IL, and Andy Chase of Manchester, IA.

Marilynn was preceded in death by her son, William Blake, her parents, Leonard Sr. and Hazel (Macomber) Chase; and her three brothers, Jan (Judy) Chase, James (Beverly) Chase, and Rev. Jerry (Julie) Chase, her niece Kristina Chase, her cousin Kevin Bleile.

To celebrate Marilynn’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque IA. Funeral services will immediately follow the visitation at 11:00 a.m., followed by the burial in Cascade Community Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Agape Care Group Hospice for all their compassionate and loving care of Marilynn during her last years.

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

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

Carrie Kracke

Carrie Kracke, 55, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Carrie will be at 11:00 am on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6.

Carrie was born October 4, 1970, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Ronald and Sandra (Knautz) Kracke. Carrie graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1988. After high school, Carrie joined the United States Air Force, where she served from 1988 until 1991. After coming home from the service, Carrie continued her education at NICC where she earned two Associates Degrees in computing.

Carrie enjoyed listening to music and reading, but her greatest joy came from the time she spent with her son and her cherished grandchildren.

Survivors include her son, Zach (Hope) Kracke of Dubuque; two grandsons, Calvin and Maxwell; her mother, Sandra Kracke of Dubuque; one sister, Marie (Clifford) McGinnis of Cassville, WI; and her long-time partner, Jeremy Lenz.

She was preceded in death by her father, and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family requests no plants or flowers please, instead memorials may be made to the Carrie Kracke Memorial Fund.

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

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

Marilyn Tuthill

Marilyn (Stuart) Tuthill, 78, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery, in Dubuque.

Marilyn was born February 20, 1947, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Mathew “Butch” and Edna G. (Langkamp) Stuart.

Marilyn graduated from Wahlert High School in 1965. She provided in-home daycare, later working as a waitress at Poor Man’s Cafe, and lastly at Metrix until her retirement.

Marilyn has fond memories of the vacations she took, especially to Disney and Branson. She enjoyed going to concerts and seeing the country shows when they’d come to local county fairs. Her pride and joy was her white convertible with red interior that she had when she was young. Family reunions were also important to Marilyn, being able to see and catch up with family. Marilyn was an avid dog lover, having at least one her entire life.

Survivors include her three children, Lynn Pearcy, Danny (Kathy) Tuthill, and Kim Tuthill all of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Katilin and Adin; two grand dogs, Bella and Jasper; four siblings, Carolyn Cue of Dubuque, Matt Stuart of Dubuque, Mary Kay (David) Schmitt of Durango, IA, and Greg (Dawn) Stuart of Marion, IA; several nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

Besides her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her sister, Geralyn Stuart; and two grand dogs, Bailey and Bo.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Dr. Wahlen and the staff at Tri State Dialysis, as well as, the staff at Hawkeye Care Center. Especially Tammy Jasper, LPN for all of her care and support of our mom.

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 Marilyn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mark Weis

Joyce E. Gronner

Joyce Ellen Gronner, 77, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully in her home on Sunday, November 23, 2025.  In keeping with her wishes, there will be no public services. Cremation rites will be accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Joyce was born on June 5, 1948, in Manchester, IA, the daughter of Philip and Ruth (Anthony) Becker.  She worked in many roles throughout her life — welder, dairy farmer, and bartender — each reflecting her strength and determination. At the time of her passing, she was the co-owner of Blacktop Driveway Services of Galena.

She is survived by her loving husband of thirty-one years, William Gronner; her two sons, Gerald Bennett and his wife Maryanne Wachter Bennett, and Patrick Dunn and his partner Richard Abel; her adored grandchildren, Tyler Wayne Bennett and Chase Anthony Bennett, whom she loved deeply and endlessly; and her siblings Philip, Wayne, and Jackie Clark.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

Patricia R. Meyer

Patricia R. Meyer, 90, of Dubuque died Tuesday, November 25, 2025. Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45am Saturday, November 29, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by an 11 a.m. funeral service Saturday at the Funeral Home. Committal services will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Pat was born September 24, 1935 in Davenport, Iowa, daughter of Herbert and Margaret (Menadue) Meyer.

After graduating from Carmel, Indiana High School, she attended Bayless Business College where she met the man who would later become her husband, Marcus J. Meyer. On July 14, 1956 she and Marc were married. Pat later graduated from Clarke College in 1986 with majors in accounting and computer science. Marc preceded her in death on November 23, 1987.

Pat had a zest for life, a big smile, and love of people. She had an immense passion for all of God’s creation, especially children and animals.

She held many jobs in her career, but her favorite was being a demonstrator at Hy-Vee on Locust where she could meet and talk with many people.

Residents of the South Grandview Ave area might remember seeing her on her daily walks with one of her Huskies. Pat also had a love of music that she passed down to her children.

She is survived by four children, Michael J. (Judy) Meyer of Dubuque, Greg A. (Kelly) Meyer of Solon, Susan M. (Donovon) Nelson of Dubuque and Steven P. (Mary) Meyer of Cedarburg, Wisconsin; 14 grandchildren, Deborah (Jason) Ohrt, Nicholas (Meghan) Meyer, Daniel (Kate) Meyer, Jessie (Alex) Meyer, Jackie Meyer, Matthew (Rachel) Duehr, Tyler Duehr, Stephanie (fiancé Nate Casel) Duehr, Michael (fiancé Ally Holdgrafer) Duehr, Leigha Nelson, Serena Nelson, Jack Meyer and Anna (fiancé Evan Stephens) Meyer and 15 great grandchildren.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and a brother.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the wonderful and caring staff on 2NW at Stonehill Care Center and her dedicated care providers of Hospice of Dubuque.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or Stonehill Care Center.

Kenneth B. Dowe

Kenneth B. Dowe, 72, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at his home in Dubuque.

Per Kenneth’s wishes, there will be no formal services.

Kenneth was born August 28, 1953, in Elkland, MD, the son of William H. and Mary E. (Gore) Dowe. He was united in marriage to Kevin C. Harty on February 14, 2018 in Dubuque, IA.

He graduated from Littleton High School in Littleton, CO in 1972. He worked as an industrial housekeeper.

Kenneth was a devoted member of The Clan Buchanan, embracing the traditions and history of his Scottish lineage. He took great pride in celebrating his heritage and staying connected to the values and community it represents.

Survivors include his husband, Kevin Harty of Dubuque and one sister, Janice Read of Middletown, CT.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

James E. Lorence

James E. “Jim” Lorence, age 77, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on November 20, 2025, at the Midwest Medical Center in Galena, IL. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on January 24, 1948, in Ottumwa, IA, the only son to Orval and Irene (VanWye) Lorence. He graduated from Ottumwa High School and attended Northeast Missouri State where he completed his bachelors of education degree. He was a good man who did his best to face each day as it presented itself.  Jim was naturally gifted in the mechanical skills department and found satisfaction in his working years primarily as a mechanic and eventually moving into the service manager position with Buckwalter Chevrolet in Washington, IA. After investing 29 years there he eventually decided it was time for a change and completed his final years working with Schnoebelen Implement in Riverside, IA, before moving into retirement permanently.  In 2013, Jim made the move to the Dubuque area to be closer to family and enjoy the rest of his years in peace.

Jim enjoyed spending time with the family of his second wife, Racheal Bartle, and helping with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved Sunshine Restaurant, reading a good action thriller, watching sports on tv, and going on car trips.  His superpowers were his kindness, atomic dad sneezes, and enjoying the driest of humor jokes. We are forever grateful for the memories he leaves behind and will seek comfort in them until we all meet again.  Thank you, Jim, for making the most of each day as you saw fit and may eternal peace be yours now.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his two sons,
Troy (Anna) Lorence, Durango, IA,
and Trent Lorence, Coralville, IA;

his three grandchildren,
Luna (Nichole) Lorence, Redding, CA,
Maggie Lorence, Dubuque, IA,
and Jason Nichols, IA;

his first wife,
Karen Lorence, Platteville, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Travis Lorence; and his second wife of over 10 years, Racheal Bartle.

Jim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Finley E.R., and Midwest Medical Center for all of their professional and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the American Diabetes Society at Transforming Diabetes Care | American Diabetes Society would be appreciated.

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

Harlow L. Meyer

Harlow L. Meyer, age 93, Dubuque IA, completed his earthly journey on November 21, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center.   To honor Harlow’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Harlow’s family.

Harlow was born on December 6, 1931, in Dubuque, IA,  son to Leonard and Verda (Miehe) Meyer.   Harlow met the love of his life, Pauline Bechen and were united in marriage on February 18, 1952, at Sacred Heart Church.  They were able to celebrate their 70^th Anniversary before Paulines death on May 28, 2022.    Harlow served in the U.S. Army  as a cook at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri from November 1952 to November 1954. When returning to Dubuque Harlow returned to working at the Dubuque Packing company and later FDL.

Harlow loved being out in the woods hunting or fishing.

Those left to cherish the memory of Harlow include,
his two daughters,
Victoria (James) Oldham, Peosta, IA,
and Rhonda (Steve) Curler, Walford, IA;

his  grandchildren,
Heather Oldham, Greenville, WI,
Chad (Amy) Oldham, Peosta, IA,
Matthew (Courtney) Curler, Cedar Rapids, IA,
and Abby (Brett) Foreman, Lawrence, KS;

his great-grandchildren,
Camber (Jon) Kastantin, Leo  Lefevre, Olive Lefevre, Crew Curler and Baby Girl Foreman (due In December);

his great-great-grandchild,
Baby boy Kastantin (due in April 2026);

his siblings,
Darlene (Loras) Flynn, Davenport, IA,
David Meyer, Asbury, IA,
and Gerry (Walt) Hutchinson, Davenport, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Zita Elgin, Dubuque, IA;

Harlow was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Pauline Meyer; his grandson, Nicholas Curler; parents; his siblings, Janann(Joe) McPoland, Donna (Wayne)Moore, Merlin Meyer and Shirley(Bob) Kennedy; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard Bechen, Bob Bechen, Olin Bechen, Frannie Bechen and Ruth Becker.

Harlow’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque and Eagle Pointe Place for all of their compassionate care.

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

Sharon Bakewell

Sharon “Sue” Bakewell, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, entered into eternal rest peacefully on November 23, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center, surrounded by her family after a long and courageous battle with angiosarcoma and dementia.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory .

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sharon will be 10:30 am Monday, December 1, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque. 

Sharon was born July 18th, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of John and Elvera (Pickle) Merritt. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1968. She met the love of her life Norbert Bakewell, and they were married on April 29th, 1972, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.  Together they were blessed with three children: Kevan (Kelly) Bakewell, Keith Bakewell, and Amy (Grant) Henn.

After high school, Sharon worked at Medical Associates in OG/BYN and Dermatology for five years. After a year of schooling, she became a medical transcriptionist at Dubuque Pediatrics, where she joyfully worked for 20 years before retiring in 2015. She and her husband were very active at Resurrection parish, where Sharon enjoyed serving in various ministries, including leading the Country Store during the festival.  Sharon especially loved camping, shopping, reading, and dancing with Norb whenever music filled the room. She also took her last name to heart by excelling at baking and especially enjoyed hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings.  She had a generous heart, a strong Christian faith, and cherished her family and friends deeply.

Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, godmother, sister and aunt.  She loved visiting family and giving hugs. Her smile and laugh could light up a room.  Sharon was a very faithful and loving wife whose relationship with her husband over their fifty-three-year marriage was a joy to all who knew them. She had lifelong friendships that she treasured, especially her dearest friends Mary Jo and Sherrie, who were like sisters to her. Her greatest joy was being with her grandchildren and watching them grow into wonderful people. Although she will be deeply missed by all who knew her, we find comfort knowing that her struggles are over and that she is finally at peace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elvera Merritt; her son, Keith Bakewell; Fr. Don Bakewell; Sr. Genette Bakewell; Jerry Pins; and Al Loewen.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Norbert Bakewell; her children, Kevan (Kelly) Bakewell and Amy (Grant) Henn; and her ten grandchildren: Shelby Sweeney, Jaden (David) Cullen, Leah and Megan Bakewell, and Garrett, Colin, Austin, Lila, Ivy and Violet Henn. She is also survived by her siblings: Robert (Rory) Merritt, Steve Merritt, and Bill (Laura) Merritt.

The family would like to thank the staff of Resurrection Catholic Church, Fr. Gibbs and Deacon Mike Ellis, Marilyn Loewen, Eileen Pins, Cozy Corner Adult Day Services, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Hawkeye Care Center staff for the compassionate care and support they provided to Sharon and Norb throughout this journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family.

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 Sharon’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Irvin H. Borderding

Irvin Henry Borgerding, 87, of Dyersville, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at his home.

Born in a farmhouse one quarter mile east of Bankston, he was the son of Ben and Mary (Klas) Borgerding, on the 23rd of October 1938. He attended St. Clement’s school in Bankston for eight grades and, after Ben bought a farm in Holy Cross, he attended and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1956. He worked on the farm and helped the neighbors when they needed help. He was a hired man for Louis Recker, Vincent Maiers and John Klostermann until drafted into the Army in October of 1961. He had Basic and Second training at Fort Carson, Colorado.  He was then sent to 5142 Missile Battalion in Aschaffenburg Germany.  He was discharged in August 1963 from the Army.

On November 20, 1965, he was united in marriage to Joyce Krapfl in St. Boniface church in New Vienna. They were blessed with five children. They farmed in Balltown, Worthington and New Vienna until 1992 when they sold the farm and retired to Dyersville. He then worked at Lumber Specialties LTD for 16.5 years, before retiring in 2008. He volunteered to cut lawns around church, school and convent. He opened school doors on Wednesday nights for the Faith Formation children. Also served food for Xavier elementary school kids until Covid 19 shut that down.

He enjoyed playing cards (Euchre, Solo and 500) among friends and relatives. With kids and grandchildren, he played Canasta, Garbage, Back up 3, Village Idiot, Phase 10, UNO, Wizard, and Dominoes. He was a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post 137, Dubuque County Farm Bureau for over 60 years, and St. Francis Xavier Parish.

He is survived by his five children: Susan (Gary) Bries Jackson, WI, Rose (Todd) Shafer of Ankeny IA, Robert Borgerding of Havelock NC, Ann Orrison of Dyersville IA, and Paul (Laura) Borgerding of Dubuque IA; eight grandchildren: Brian Bries, Jennifer (Luc) Bries, Julie Bries, Sarah (fiancé, Riley Martin) Shafer, Ben Shafer, Heather (Josh) LaBarbera, Randal Orrison and Cordel (Ciera) Orrison; great-grandchild, Oliver Irvin Orrison; siblings: Helen Cigrand of Dubuque IA, Richard (Marilyn) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA, Mary Jane Johnson of Harrisburg PA, Carol (Tom) Beringer of Farley IA, Wilma Jesenovec of Hopkinton IA, and Loras (Jean) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA; in-laws: Alice Langel of Dyersville IA, Doris Langel of Dyersville IA, Donna (James) Kluesner of Luxemburg IA, Inez (Bernie) Kluesner of New Vienna IA, and David (LuAnn) Krapfl of New Vienna, IA.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce; parents, Ben and Mary Borgerding; sister, Donna (Richard) Smith; in-laws: Lawrence and Laurine Krapfl, David Johnson, Ernest Jesenovec, Gene (Betty) Krapfl, Francis Langel, Melvin Langel, and Marian (Ed) Hermsen; nephews: Mark Langel and Gene Kluesner; nieces: Gail Dietrick and Rebecca Krapfl.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home where a military service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral services.

Funeral service will be held at 10: 30 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with the interment in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made out to Hospice of Dubuque.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Lois C. Trausch-Wolfe

Lois C. Trausch-Wolfe, 85 of Dubuque, IA, went home to the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit on November 23, 2025.

As per Lois’s wishes, a private memorial service will be held at a later date. As a final act of generosity Lois has donated her body to science through the University of Iowa Deeded Body program. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Lois was born in Dubuque on November 7, 1940, the daughter of Fay R. and Dorothy F. (Pape) Orcutt. As a child she loved staying with her Aunt Mazie and Uncle Walt Taylor in Potosi, WI, helping on their farm. Lois graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1959. Lois worked for many years as a nurse’s aide. She worked as a housekeeper at Loras College for 24 years until she retired. She married Joseph Wolfe on November 3, 1992. Lois loved gardening, canning, and crocheting. Lois was a great cook and enjoyed preparing holiday meals for her family, and hosting picnics at her home for the Celotex Maintenance Dept., and Loras College Bens Hall Housekeepers for many years. She enjoyed giving gifts to others and seeing the joy it brought to them rather than receiving gifts herself. She donated annually to the Potosi-Tennyson Lions Club. She spent her free time reading the bible and praying for everyone.

Lois is survived by her children Forrest Trausch of Dubuque, Claudette (Bob) Betts of Farley, IA, Paul Trausch of Oceanside, CA; her “Potosi kids” Tim and Cory Leibfried Family; sister Shelby (Ron) Olsen of Mt. Pleasant, IA; brother Loren (Callie) of Salt Lake City, UT; sister-in-law Margret Tracy of Puhrump, NV; grandchildren Eric (Lynn) Trausch and Austin Trausch; great-grandchildren Owen, Elliot, Quinn and Piper Trausch; niece Shannon (Brian) Brunscheen and son Chase; nephews John and Fay (Nadia) Olsen family; cousins Linda Kirkel and Cary (Paulette) Kress; and her Grace Point Family whom she loved dearly.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband Joe, her parents, brothers Brian (Karen) Orcutt and Bruce (Patti) Orcutt.

Special thanks to her “Hospice of Dubuque girls” Jamie, Stephanie, Hayle, and Molly, and the staff at Stonehill 3N for their care and compassion.

John A. Sincox

John A. Sincox, age 79, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque, IA.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025 at the Miller & Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound and from 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the Scales Mound United Methodist Church, where services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, with Rev. Libby Rutherford officiating. Burial will follow in the Scales Mound Twp. Cemetery.

John was born on February 22, 1946 at Freeport, IL, the son of Norman and B’Ella (Rowe) Sincox.  He was a 1964 graduate of Warren High School. On February 17, 1968 he was united in marriage to Karen K. Hendrickson at the Apple River Methodist Church in Apple River, IL.

John grew up on his family farm outside of Apple River. During high school John was in a band and enjoyed singing. He sang in the church choir. John formerly worked for Honeywell in Freeport and various other locations. John‘s hobby after retirement was gardening and canning. He also enjoyed playing solitaire on the computer and playing cribbage. John loved watching his granddaughters play their sports and attending their music activities.

Surviving is his wife Karen; two daughters, Heidi Sincox of Scales Mound, IL and Summer (Ryan) Feldmann of Platteville, WI; four grandchildren, Sierra Hooper, Jazmyn Feldmann, Lynette Feldmann, and Jade Feldmann; one brother, Howard (Debbie) Sincox of Apple River, IL, and one sister, Marlene Burge of Bradenton, FL, and brother-in-law, David (Joann) Hendrickson of Dubuque, IA and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and B’Ella, son, Cory J. Sincox, siblings, Keith (Shirley) Sincox and Elaine Crom, and his in-laws, Ron Hendrickson and Vicki Stilson.

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

Jeanette Brimeyer

Jeanette Brimeyer, 97, of Sherrill, died Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, November 28, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jeanette will be at 10:00 am Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church – Balltown with Father Tyler Raymond as the Celebrant. Burial will be at SS Peter and Paul Cemetery – Sherrill.

Jeanette was born February 7, 1928 in Bankston, IA, daughter of George & Mary (Winter) Wolf. She received her education at the former St. Clements School in Bankston. On June 7th, 1950 she married Merlin Brimeyer of Sherrill, IA at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, together they farmed in Sherrill until 1984.

She was a member of SS Peter & Paul Church, the Rosary Society, and Catholic Order of Foresters.

Jeanette was a devoted homemaker who found joy in cooking, baking, crocheting, playing cards, and dominos with the grandkids, trying her luck at the slot machines, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. She especially loved to crochet. If someone in the family needed a blanket or baby afghan, she could create one in just a few days. She made it a point to ensure every child and grandchild had an afghan stitched with her love. Above all, Jeanette cherished time spent visiting with her family and friends. Her warmth, creativity, and gentle presence will remain forever in our hearts.

She is survived by six children, Steve (Judy) Brimeyer of Sherrill, Debbie (Wayne) Steffen of Rickardsville, Rick Brimeyer of Sherrill, Judy (Milo) Hefel of Dubuque, Connie (Dana) Henkes of Dubuque, and Tom Brimeyer of Sherrill; 16 grandchildren, Jenny (Lance) Kruger, Julie Mueller, Peggy (Marc) Hanson, Jason (Kelli) Steffen, Crystal (Jesse) Smith, Rachel (Adam) Schilling, Michelle (Rob) Klaren, Matthew (Jenni Scott) Brimeyer, Sarah (Ted) Smith, Kayla (Tony) Nadermann, Rebecca (Tyler) Barton, Brittni (Charles) Benda, Brandon (Holly) Hefel, Brock (M.J. Whitaker-Long) Hefel, Stephanie (Nick) Farber, and Jeremy Henkes; 31 great-grandchildren, with four more on the way, including a set of twins; three step great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Marlene Brimeyer; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Merlin on February 2, 2021, her parents, her father and mother in-law Felix and Anna (Wagner) Brimeyer, one daughter-in-law Judy Brimeyer; her sisters, Ardella Connolly, Marlene Dupont, and a brother Nicholas Wolf.  In-laws Ray Ernzen, Frank Connolly, Richard Dupont, Doris Wolf, Reynold Brimeyer, Gilbert & Norma Brimeyer, LaVerne Brimeyer, John & Delores Hannan, and Annette Brimeyer-Ament.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Health Care Center, Hospice, and her in home caretaker, Sandy Koltes, for the care and love they gave to their mother.

In lieu of flowers, a Jeanette L. Brimeyer Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Dorothy M. Brimeyer

Dorothy Mae Brimeyer—known to many as “Dottie” or “Doe,” and lovingly called “Dot” by her husband, Kenny—passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025. At the center of her life and spirit was her devotion to her family; she was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and neighbor.

Born on November 6, 1946, to Louis (Bud) and Miriam (Em) Juergens, Mom was the fourth of their six children. She grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings—Gerene, Richard, Mary Kay, Clara, and Patricia—each of whom shaped her early life in Dubuque, Iowa.

Mom spent most of her life in Dubuque. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and went on to complete her training at Capri Cosmetology College. Becoming a cosmetologist allowed her to express her creativity, confidence, and natural ability to make others feel seen and beautiful. After twenty years in the beauty profession, Mom began a new chapter in 1987 at Flexsteel Industries, working as an in-back seamstress. Though it was a change of pace, she embraced her role wholeheartedly and developed many treasured friendships during her years there.

On November 4, 1967, with a light dusting of snow on the ground, Mom married Kenneth (Kenny) Brimeyer in a beautiful ceremony at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, hard work, and deep love, and were blessed with three daughters: Lori, Lynn, and Tricia.

Mom’s greatest passion was her children and their families. She loved being a grandma and spending time with her grandchildren. Mom enjoyed playing games, singing and dancing, watching movies, and she especially loved snuggling with each of her 6 grandchildren: Hannah, Gabrielle, Samuel, Will, Luke and Paige. Her legacy will always be the love she instilled in them. Mom left a permanent imprint on her grandchildren’s lives, and her memory will live on in their memories and hearts forever.

Mom was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Em; her siblings Gerene, Dick and Mary Kay; her parent-in-laws, Ray and Alvina Brimeyer; in-laws Tom Oberbroeckling, Jerome Errthum, Tommie Turner, Charlie Evanoff, Roger Meyer, Pat & Clark Lange, Louie Hoeger, and Kathleen Brimeyer. She was also preceded in death by nieces, nephews and grandpuppies that were dear to her heart.

Mom is survived by her husband, Kenny; her three daughters, Lori (Bill), Lynn, and Tricia (Travis); Lori and Bill’s children, Hannah, Gabrielle (fiancé Cannon), and Samuel; Tricia and Travis’s children, Will, Luke, and Paige; two sisters, Clara and Patricia (Mark); and several in-laws, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews that she loved as her own.

Honoring her wishes, there will be no public services. The family extends their profound appreciation for the love and support they’ve received and will hold a celebration of life at a later date for all who knew and loved Mom. They wish to express their sincere gratitude to nurse Dawn in the ER, all the nurses and doctors that cared for mom in the ICU and especially Dr. Eltibi for his knowledge, compassion and guidance in caring for Mom’s precious heart over the past seven years. They are also grateful to the many other doctors, nurses and staff who cared for mom over the years.

Those that knew Mom would describe her as a fierce and gentle force. She stood up for what she believed in and met challenges with strength, determination and tenacity. She also loved deeply and without reservation – welcoming all as they were in every aspect of her life. A friend of her children, a neighbor, a smiling server at Sunshine Restaurant, every engagement Mom had was a chance to connect. Many have commented that she made them feel like family. Know that you held a special place in her heart.