Obituaries Archive

Thomas L. Larson

Thomas L. “Tom” Larson, age 81, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:58 p.m., on Thursday, July 20, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Tom’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 6:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Rev. Dennis J. Quint officiating.  Inurnment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.

Tom was born on March 26, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Lee and Ila (Harville) Larson.

Tom graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1960.  Right after school he began serving his country with the U.S. Air Force from 1960 until 1964.  Tom returned to Dubuque and went to work for John Deere Dubuque Works.  He devoted 35 years to the company and ended his career there as a supervisor, retiring in 2000.  Tom was united in marriage to Noreen Hendricks on July 22, 1967, at St. Patrick’s Church.  They were just 2 days away from their 56th wedding anniversary this year.  Tom’s faith and military service were both important aspects of his life.  He was a devoted member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral and the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.  Tom also enjoyed his free time.  He and Noreen were both die hard Iowa Hawkeye fans, attending as many football and basketball games as they could.  They had tailgating down to a science, and Tom always made sure that his special flags were the highest ones on display.  Tom also enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, even though Noreen wasn’t a big fan.  She did however love the time they spent camping together as a family.  Tom also liked to go fishing, and in recent years enjoyed meeting up with his friends at Donut Boy to solve all the worlds problems.  His family was always the most important aspect of Tom’s life.  He truly cherished time spent with Noreen, the kids and the grandkids.  Tom was an excellent role model to everyone around him.  He was a devoted family man and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include

his wife,
Noreen Larson, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Kris Hall, Dubuque, IA,
Doug (fiancé Ceci Gonzalez) Larson, Las Vegas, NV,
Kara (Tony) Culpepper, Dubuque, IA
and John (Katie) Larson, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren,
Gabrielle, Tre, Mason, Monique, Ariana, Jordan, Piper, Avery, Blayke, Yulissa and Isla;

2 great-grandchildren,
Ace and Kai;

his siblings,
Paul (Landa) Larson, Duluth, GA
and Shirley Sheehan, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Michel Larson, Chandler, AZ;

and his in-laws,
Nancy (Dave) Brauhn, Robins, IA,
Mary Lou (Bob) Johanningmeier, Dubuque, IA,
Patty Hendricks, Dubuque, IA
and Ken Hilby, Menominee, IL.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Robert Larson, Dayle (“Babe”) Larson, Jym Larson, Roy (Noreen) Larson, Mary Sue Kelly, Nancy (Kirk) West; his in-laws, Louis and Lorraine Hendricks; a brother-in-law, Ron Hendricks; and a sister-in-law, Jan Hilby.

Tom’s family would like to thank Dr. Ram, and all of the nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque for all of their compassionate care of Tom.

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

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

David J. Welu

David John Welu, 82, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Friday, July 21, 2023 at Stonehill Communities.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 pm, Thursday, July 27, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral home, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am, Friday July 28, 2023 at The Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. Following the Mass, burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

David was born on February 19, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Anton Valentine and Catherine Marie (Broell) Welu. He grew up in Dubuque IA and attended Loras Academy and Dubuque Senior High School. As a young man, he worked picking strawberries for Fincel’s and painting at Linwood Cemetery. Duck hunting, fishing and adventures on the Mississippi marked his boyhood exploits.

He married Carole Sue Wilberding on September 7, 1963 at St. Anthony Catholic Church. He began his career hand feeding Star Brewery bags into a printing press at his father’s business, A. Welu & Co. Printing and Bookbinding. He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company and served as a Union Steward for a period of time. For years, he worked first shift building the family business, Welu Printing Company, and second shift at “The Pack” to support the growing company and family.

Dave was an energetic presence in the community with the talent of bookbinding, letterpress printing, die-cutting, salesmanship and philanthropy. He loved the art of “putting ink on paper” and was justifiably proud of his work. Visitors to “the shop” often found him running a printing press and wearing a protective white lab coat with “Dave” stitched on the chest. He quickly earned the moniker “Dr. Dave” which always brought a wry smile to his face. He had an equal love for the many wonderful people he met in the community and counted many of his customers and associates among his closest friends. He will be remembered for his enthusiasm, numerous witticisms, and colorful stories. He contributed time, talent and treasure to his favorite charities Mercy Medical Center-Dubuque, Hills and Dales, Church of the Resurrection, and other community organizations. These were more than business relationships; they were organizations and missions in which he truly believed. He was a father to four children who all spent portions of their childhood in the family business. He supported all of them in their different endeavors, and it was a pleasant surprise when his daughter, Julie, joined him in the family business. Grandchildren brought him great joy and it was a blessing that he was here for the recent birth of his first great-grandchild, Brady.

He is survived by his wife, Carole, of 60 years of marriage; three children: Michael J. Welu, of Dubuque, IA, Julie (Stephen) Frommelt, of Dubuque, IA and Jane (Vance) Schollmeyer of Dubuque, IA; seven grandchildren Marcus H. Welu of Washington D.C. and Evan H. Welu of San Diego, CA, Amanda K. Frommelt of Chicago, IL, Nicholas D. Frommelt of Bettendorf, IA, Amber C. (Cory) Miller of Pleasant Hill, IA, Dr. Allison M. Schollmeyer of Osceloa, IA, Emily A. Schollmeyer of Sparta, WI and one great-grandson, and Brady V. Miller; a sister Joan (Doug) McGehe and a brother Richard (Dixie) Welu.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Mark A. Welu, his sister Janet M. Welu and brother Thomas A. Welu.

We would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Communities and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful and patient care of David.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Stonehill Communities, Hospice of Dubuque, or the Child Casket Fund of New Melleray Abbey.

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

Sue Cording

Surrounded by a family who loves her deeply, Sue Cording, 76, of Galena, IL, passed away in her home on July 20, 2023.

Deanna Sue Cording was born in Dubuque, IA to Wilma Ryan Pogeman and Wilbur Pogeman on January 11, 1947. She grew up on the family farm in rural Scales Mound.

On December 28, 1968, Sue married her high school sweetheart, Larry Cording. Together they shared nearly 55 years of love and adventures.

Sue began her teaching career at Galena Elementary School when it was still housed at the old high school on Prospect Street. After two years, she transferred to Galena High School where she taught for 31 years. In addition to traditional English classes, Sue created numerous new classes and activities for the Galena students. Working with Steve Repp, she initiated the annual tradition of having students research Galena history at the Galena Public Library. With Keith Hesselbacher, who taught Science at GHS at the time, she created the Galena River Project. Sue loved her students and was dedicated to giving them the skills that they needed to succeed in life.

After her retirement in 2007, she continued to teach classes at Highland Community College, Northeast Iowa Community College and the University of Dubuque.

In addition to her family and her career, Sue was an active member of our community. She served on the Galena City Council, was a President of the League of Women Voters and a member of the Jo Daviess County Conservation Foundation. She was a founding member of the Galena Writers Guild and the Galena Book Club.

With a strong Christian faith, Sue was active in local churches all of her life. Most recently, she and Larry are members of the Lord Of Love Church in Galena. Sue and all of her family are most grateful to Pastor Robin Luckey who brought so much love and grace to the family in the last months of Sue’s life.

Survivors include her husband Larry Cording of Galena, her son Troy (Becky) Cording of Peshtigo, WI and her daughter Kimberly (Doug) Kuhlman of Allentown, PA, her grandchildren: Alex Cording, Jacob Cording, Aaron (Megan) Kuhlman and Justin Kuhlman, Koral (Kyle) Eddings: great-grandchildren DJ, Averie, and Berkley Eddings; her sisters Cynthia (Bill) Cover of Wildwood, MO and Peggy Stortz of Galena, IL. She is also adored by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother-in-laws Les Stortz and Gary Cording.

A visitation will be held at Lord of Love Church at 219 Summit St. Galena, IL 61036 on Thursday, July 27, 2023 from 4:00 – 7:30 pm and Friday, July 28, 2023 from 9:00 – 10:15 am.  A funeral service will follow at 10:30 am.  Burial will be at St. Johns in Guilford Township.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made in her name to Lord of Love Church.

The Miller Funeral Home, of East Dubuque, is serving the family.

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

Johanna M. Ketoff

Johanna Marie Ketoff, 51, of Dubuque, passed away on June 17, 2023, at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 29th, 2023, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with a funeral mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Johanna was born on September 7, 1971, in Dubuque, IA, daughter of Leslie Larsen and Ernestine Zwanziger.

Johanna was employed at Sedgwick in Dubuque.

Johanna is survived by her mother Ernie (Paul) Schmitt; her brothers Thor and Carl Larsen; her children Anna (Tyler) Jelinek, Emilee (Lincoln) Ketoff, Austin Ketoff, Olivia (Jeff) Ketoff, Ben (Hope) Ketoff.

She is preceded in death by her father Leslie Larsen and her father and mother in-law George and Barbara Ketoff.

The family would like to thank the staff in the ICU at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital for all of their compassion and care.

Steven H. Ruddy

Steven H. Ruddy, age 74, of Dubuque and formerly of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, passed away at 7:41 p.m., on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Harmony Dubuque.  In keeping with Steven’s wishes, private family services will be held.  Inurnment will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Steve was born on August 19, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Eldon J. and Dorothy (Hilvers) Ruddy.

Steve graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1966.  He went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War.  After returning home Steve took a job with the survey crew with the Iowa Department of Transportation.  He would devote 30 years to his work until his well deserved retirement.  Steve was a simple man whose greatest joy was spending time out on the golf course and joining his friends for a drink afterwards.

Those left to cherish Steve’s memory include

his sister,
Jeanne (John) Schneider, Dubuque, IA;

2 nieces,
Michelle (Chuck) Tucker, Dubuque, IA
and Lisa (Kris) Mercer, Kingsland, GA;

his great-nieces and great-nephew,
Kaylee and Elaina Tucker and Collin Mercer;

and a brother-in-law,
Michael “Mike” Becker, Dubuque, IA.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Jane Becker.

Steve’s family would like to thank all the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for their kind and compassionate care.

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

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

Dawn M. Kalmes

Dawn M. Kalmes 43, passed away unexpectedly on July 11th, 2023.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 5th, 2023, at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. Private burial will be in St. Donatus Cemetery.

She was born on April 12, 1980, in Geneseo, IL to Darrell and Diane (Kutsch) Kalmes. She lived most of her years in Beaver Dam, WI attending special needs programs through the school system until she was 21.  She then attended the SNAP (Special Needs Activities Program at Green Valley Enterprises until she moved to Dubuque on April 12, 2012.  She began her life with Hills and Dales in their DayHab center and then was able to take advantage of their Community Based Services living in an apartment with 2 roommates with 24/7 care.

She didn’t understand a lot of what was going on around her, but she did experience joy in the activities she could attend – including museums, movies – especially Disney musicals, concerts, plays (she went to Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat), swimming, rides in her wheelchair-anywhere just as long as you didn’t stop too long, and being with people.  Her laugh was contagious.  If she started, nobody could resist laughing with her.  She will always be remembered for her farmer (EIEIO), Santa (HO HO HO) and her “growl like a tiger”.

She is survived by her parents, a brother Chad and his wife Lily, nieces Caitlin and Megan; maternal grandparents Bernard (Red) and Adeline Kutsch, and numerous Aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her paternal Grandparents Harold and Marie (Abing) Kalmes, step-grandfather Julien Herrig, aunt Rita Kalmes.

In lieu of flowers and memorabilia items, a memorial fund has been set up for Dawn.  The monetary gifts in her memory will go to Green Valley Enterprises and Hills and Dales to help them continue their missions to assist those with Special Needs.  If you wish to donate directly, you may do so.

Hugs and kisses dearest Dawnie, we know you are safe, happy and healthy in the arms of Our Lord!

Vivian T. Steffen

Vivian T. Steffen, 85, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully, Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 24, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Vivian was born on April 3, 1938, in Cascade, Iowa, the daughter of Louis and Jessie (Dolphin) Connolly.  She married Donald Steffen on November 19, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Vivian was a quiet woman who was content in all things with a vibrant faith that sustained her through both the easy and hard times during her life’s journey. Vivian was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and sister who deeply loved her family and her Lord.

She worked at The Ertl Company for 30 years. After her retirement, she spent her time praying devoutly, enjoying Hawkeye basketball, puzzles, cooking and baking for others, and most importantly spending time with family and friends. She will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children: Doris (Kevin) Metz of Marion, Diane (Pete) Breitbach, Linda Nurre, both of Dubuque, Mark (Lisa) Steffen of Las Vegas, NV, Patrick (Anne) Steffen of Appleton, WI and Brenda (Keith) Hoefler of New Vienna; 16 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; in-laws: Jean Connolly of Dubuque, Mary Ann Steffen of Asbury, Phyllis Steffen, Nancy Steffen, Mary Kay Shanahan,  all of Dubuque, and David (Eileen) Steffen of Cascade.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Don in 2011, granddaughter, Kristi Nurre in 2011; siblings: Verla (Clarence) Lehmann, Msgr. Leon Connolly, Pat Connolly, Vincent Connolly, Janell (Tom) Then, Vivian’s twin sister, Sr. Lillian Connolly R.S.M., Sr. Nancy Connolly R.S.M., Jeremiah Connolly in infancy, in-laws: Leon (Anna Mae), Loras, Elmer, and Kenneth Steffen, and Bernita (Merlin) Kaiser.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Hawkeye Care Center.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Sr. Mary Bernadine Curoe, SVM

Sister Mary Bernadine Curoe, SVM, 92, died on Friday, July 14, 2023, at Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, Iowa

Friends may call at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, on Wednesday, July 26, from 2– 8 p.m. and on Thursday, July 27, from 9:30-10:30 a.m., with the funeral service following at 10:30 a.m.

Sister Mary Bernadine, daughter of Harold and Naomi (Dahlem), was born on November 20, 1930, in Cascade, Iowa. She entered the Sisters of the Visitation on August 15, 1948, and professed her perpetual vows on June 15, 1953.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke University and a Master of Arts from Loras College. Sister Bernadine was a teacher at Nativity Elementary School, Academy of the Visitation Elementary School, Wahlert High School and Loras College. She served as director of the counseling center at Loras College and moderator of the Academy of the Visitation Alumnae Association. Sister Bernadine was a past president of the Visitation community. Sister Bernadine had a special gift for greeting people and making them feel welcome. She valued prayer and community service.

Surviving are her sister, Edna Green, her brother Bill (Sheila), her sister-in-law, Monica Curoe, many nieces and nephews and the Sisters of the Visitation, Sisters Patricia Clark, SVM, and Sister Paula Maloy, SVM, with whom she shared her life for 75 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, Tom and Jim, and her brother-in-law, Mike Green.

The Behr Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to the Sisters of the Visitation Retirement Fund and to the Sister Bernadine Curoe Scholarship Fund at Loras College.

John Richard Klaas

John Richard Klaas, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa, made his way through heaven’s gates on Thursday, July 13th, 2023, leaving behind his devoted family, who were at his side at Bethany Home when his life here with us came to an end.

To honor John’s life, a brief visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31st, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 31st at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Fr. Steve Garner officiating.  Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.   Military rites will be accorded.

This wonderful man was born in Iowa City, Iowa, on the cold, winter morning of February 16th, 1938, to his proud parents, Clarence “Shorty” and Agnes (Heiderscheit) Klaas. Though his birth certificate listed “John” as his first name, his mother decided to call him by his middle name of “Richard.” It wasn’t until the second grade when one of his teachers at Holy Trinity called him “John” that he discovered he had two first names.

Richard was a member of Holy Spirit Parish. This faithful servant always carried a pocket rosary with him at work. It was his reminder that God is always with us.

He graduated from Loras Academy in 1956. A very talented baseball player, he threw a no-hitter his senior year. According to his daughter, Roxanne, her dad is still the best Dubuque fast pitch softball player not yet inducted into the Dubuque County Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. Over the years she witnessed many softballs soaring high above the left field fence at McAleece Park. Richard also played a few years of semi-professional baseball. He even had a tryout for the Cleveland Indians.

Richard arranged for a chance meeting in 1958 with his future wife, Ann Voigts, after finding out through reliable sources that she hopped on the school bus to Senior High School at the corner of 12th and Iowa Street. One morning he “just happened” to be in the neighborhood before the bus arrived. The plan worked liked magic. He went on to marry this wonderful young lady and together celebrated 62 years of marriage. Richard and Ann were blessed with three children, Steve, Roxanne, and Mark.

Just prior to tying the knot, Richard and Ann pooled together their small savings and purchased a semi-tractor. It was the first step in what turned out to be a 7-million-mile professional truck driving career. However, Richard had to put this new career on hold for a short time after being called to service through the U.S. Army Reserves from 1961 to 1962 during the Berlin Crisis. This call to duty took him and his new bride to Fort Smith, Arkansas. After returning to Dubuque, Richard quickly resumed his truck driving career by taking a job with Flexsteel. After a year or so of moving furniture around the Midwest, he went on to drive what his children called the “Big Truck” at the Dubuque Packing Company until it closed in 1987. It was now time for Richard and his family to do their own packing. The entire family moved to Colorado after hearing Nation’s Way was looking for professional truck drivers. Richard and Ann spent almost 20 years in the Rocky Mountain state creating many friendships and memories before returning to Dubuque in 2007.

Sadly, Richard’s professional truck driving career came to a screeching halt in 2014 after he suffered three strokes. His days of driving an 18-wheeler on the open road all night long, crisscrossing the nation’s highways, were over. At the age of 76, ready or not, retirement had arrived.

Thanks to the loving care of his wife, Richard was able to enjoy many happy years away from the road despite his ongoing health issues. He was forever grateful for all that she did over the last 8 ½ years to ensure he was able to continue living at home. When that was no longer possible, the kind and compassionate staff at Bethany Home welcomed him into their family.

Richard loved his family and worked so hard to provide for them. The life of a truck driver isn’t easy. Back in the day at the Dubuque Pack, after driving all night long, he would rise early in the morning from his small cot in his tractor, open the back trailer door, and start unloading sides of beef (like the ones Rocky used as a punching bag).

He was a simple man who didn’t need much. A little duct tape would stretch the life of his wallet out for a few more years. Socks with holes in them could always make it another month or two. While enjoying a dinner out on the town, he would always order whatever meal was on sale to save a few bucks. But when going out to eat with friends and family, he was always the first one at the table to ask for the check. Richard taught his kids big words like “facetious” and created words like “oldsmobuick.” The Green Bay Packers and Chicago White Sox were his teams. Blue Bloods was his show. No cookie could ever surpass an oatmeal raisin. An apple fritter could make his day. He loved reading the newspaper, watching the hummingbirds, taking 10-minute naps, collecting road maps, and turning over the calendar to start the next month.

Although family time was always in short supply, Richard made the most of it when he was home. He loved visiting his sisters Mary and Gloria, playing cards, going to Eagle Point Park, watching barges navigate through Lock and Dam No. 11, taking family road trips to Chicago, playing catch with his kids in the backyard, spending a week at the Shacks cabins with friends in the summer, playing recreational fast pitch softball, and especially traveling to Nebraska to visit his grandson, Jonah. “Papa” was so proud of him.

Some of his proudest achievements included the multiple safety awards he received from Nation’s Way and Walmart for his accident-free mileage. Richard knew nearly every mile marker exit along I-70 and I-80. He was GPS before there was such a thing. As long as you were riding with him, you never had to worry about pulling over at the next gas station and asking for directions. Richard was also especially proud of his single up the middle off George Peterson, his children’s successes in life, and his best decision of all, finding the most devoted and loving wife, Ann, standing at the bus corner back in 1958.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Ann; his three children, Stephen (Dr. Tara Longoria) Klaas, Roxanne Klaas, and Mark Klaas; his favorite grandson, Jonah Klaas; his sisters, Mary Claire Klaas (special friend, Ed Ehlers) and Virginia (Lee) Nelson; his nieces, Kara (John Khouri) Klaas, Carolyn Klaas, Sue (Bob) Biddle, Debbie Ruden, and Stacie (Jodi Valdez) Neldaughter; his nephew, Paul Klaas; his two special great nephews, Patrick Khouri and Andy Khouri; his great aunts, Rosie Winner and Hazel Schend; his special cousin, Peggy (Gerry) Miller, and their daughter, Amanda; his sister-in-law, Yvonne Klaas; his truck driving buddies, Van Klause and Gary Noel; and his much-loved dachshund, Emily.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Gloria Klaas; his brother, Herbert Klaas; and his sweet, precious dachshunds, Sachi, Chester, and Nemo.

Special thanks to Richard’s sister, Mary, who visited him nearly every day these past 5 months, Dr. Hillard Salas, Dr. Timothy Martin, Hospice of Dubuque, and the entire staff at Bethany Home for their compassion, kindness, and exceptional care. We don’t know what we would have done without you. You will be in our hearts forever.

Memorials may be given to Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

After suffering those three strokes, Richard was never able to sit in the driver’s seat again. Without question, this was heartbreaking for him. He would have given anything to get behind the wheel one more time. It brings his family a sense of comfort knowing that he was in the driver’s seat again on July 13th, heading home, straight to heaven, his first and only one-way trip.

Richard will be forever missed by all those lucky enough to have known him.

Linda M. Morgan

Linda Marie Morgan, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.  To honor Linda’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Linda’s family.

Linda was born on March 20, 1942, in Cedar Rapids, IA, to Frank E. and Margaret J. (Campagna) Shaw.  She eventually met the love of her life, Jerry Morgan, Sr., on the 3rd Avenue bridge, and the two were united in marriage on July 14th, 1960.  They spent 63 wonderful years together raising their family.  Linda did work outside of the home for over 30 years at Waldenbooks.  She made many friends there, not only with her fellow co-workers but with many of the customers who called her “The Book Lady.” Linda enjoyed playing bridge, doing crossword puzzles, and reading, in addition to spending time with her family.  You could also find her enjoying her favorite beverage with a little salt and lime.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Linda include,

her loving husband,
Jerry P. Morgan, Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her children,
John Morgan (Pam), Dubuque, IA,
Jeffery Morgan, Dubuque, IA,
Joy Morgan, Mt. Vernon, IA,
James Morgan, Dubuque, IA,
and Jill Morgan, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter-in-law,
Kim Morgan, Mesa, AZ;

her grandchildren,
Staci Novak (John), Julia McGowan (Shayne), Becky Sawvell (Andy), Jerry Morgan III (Sarah), Brittany Birch,  Jenni McKernan (Phil), Breanne Morgan, Brandon Sheehan, Ana Morgan, Brooke Cabrera (Joseph), and Sunny Morgan.

her 21 great-grandchildren;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Jerry Paul Morgan Jr.; her sister, Virginia Pierce; her brother, Kevin Shaw; her step-mother, Betty Sills Shaw; and her step-father, Harold Heiderscheidt.

Linda’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care and support during these difficult days.  Your kind and gentle spirits have brought peace to our hearts and minds, and we are forever grateful for each of you.

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

Joan T. Nauman

Joan Theresa Nauman, 81 of Dubuque, died on July 15th, after a short battle with Acute Leukemia, surrounded by her family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday July 20, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. There will also be a visitation from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday July 21, 2023, at the funeral home.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday July 21, 2023, at the funeral home with Father Steve Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Cassville Cemetery in Cassville, Wisconsin.

Joan was born on November 25, 1941, at home on the farm at Browns Bottom (known now as English Mill Road) in Dubuque, the daughter of Frank and Liz (Maas) Muntz. She was the 4th of 8 children. Joan graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1960.

She was married to Melvern (Curly) Nauman on November 18, 1961, and divorced on May 11, 1978 and remained friends. They had 4 children together. Joan worked at Dubuque Bank and Trust in many departments for over 35 years until her retirement in 2007. She enjoyed sewing, reading, cross stitch, making quillows and quilts, playing cards and going to the casino. She also enjoyed visiting her son in Texas, her sister-in-law in Florida and spending time with her family, most of all.

Joan will be missed very much by all who loved her. She is survived by her 4 children: Julie (Dennis) Jentz of Platteville, WI; Janell (Tim) O’Meara and Jena (Todd) Wilwert of Dubuque, and Robert Nauman (Thy Nguyen) of Saginaw, TX. Grandchildren: Myranda (Jimmy Bernhardt) O’Meara, Jacob (Sydney) Wilwert and Shane O’Meara. Step Grandchildren: Tristan (Shayne) Wilwert and Tiara (Ryan) Steffen, Calvin and Martin Nguyen. Great Grandchild: Marcella “Macy” O’Meara and another due in November. Step Great-Grandchildren: Anika and Silas Wilwert and Remington and Lilian Steffen.  Siblings: Margie (Lyle) Smith, Daniel Muntz, Betty (Ron) Gile and Joe (Betty) Muntz. Honorary Siblings: Jeff (Ann) Maas and Tim (Linda) Maas. Special Cousins: Rosie Besler, Kay Wilgenbusch and Mary Beitzel. In-laws: Nellie Muntz, Don (Helen) Nauman, Darlene (Don) Schmitt, Madonna Nauman, Roseann Nauman and Peggy Nauman, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by: her parents, ex-husband Melvern “Curly” Nauman, Step Great-Grandchild Ashton Wilwert. Siblings: Frank Muntz, Florence (Tony) Zenz, Dorrance “Jake” (Roberta) Muntz. In-laws: Rose Muntz, Irvin (Mary) Nauman, Gerald (Phyllis) Naumann, Alfred(Whitey) (Darlene and Mary) Nauman, Kenneth (Dutch) Nauman, Harlan Nauman, Ronald Nauman. Nephews: Billy Muntz and Lyle Smith Jr. Special Cousins: Bob Selle Sr and Jim Beitzel.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided Joan, especially Hillary, Morgan, and Angelia.

Sharon C. Lochner

Sharon C. Lochner, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 17, 2023, at her daughter’s home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, July 21st, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22nnd, 2023, at St. Catherine Catholic Church with Fr. Dave Ambrosy officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Sharon was born in Dubuque on March 6, 1943, to Mary Speltz. She married Gerald Lochner on February 6, 1965, and they shared 58 years of marriage together.

Sharon was a loving mother, wife, and grandmother. She loved garage sales, boating, and the beach. Her family knows her for baking the best cinnamon rolls and cherry pies. You could always find her providing an abundance of life lessons with her famous sayings.

Sharon lived life simply and for her family. She will be remembered for her love of life, endless strength, and ba ba ba…

Surviving is her husband, Gerald Lochner; her children; Lana Lochner, Angie (Kip) Malott, Beth (Tom) Johnson, and Jim (Jill) Lochner, 12 grandkids and 4 great grandkids.

The family would love to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jenifer, Amber, and Morgan, for their infinite support and kindness.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Hospice of Dubuque.

Roxanne F. Picray

Roxanne F. Picray, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Private family services will be held.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Roxanne Faye Manning was born on July 19, 1960 in Iowa, to Lester Loyal and Eloise Marie (Green) Manning.  She attended Monticello Schools.  She married Eugene Picray Jr. on June 11, 2004 in Monticello, Iowa.  He preceded her in death in 2008.

Roxanne is survived by children, Crystal Yocum of Lawler, IA and Michael Recker of Cedar Rapids, IA; siblings, Tom Manning and Patricia Shady; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a sister Connie Mann.

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

Frank A. Hornung

Frank A. Hornung, 64, of East Dubuque, IL., passed away on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA., following a lengthy battle with multiple sclerosis.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Frank was born on November 28, 1958 in Dubuque, IA., the son of Harland W. “Curly” and Mary (Miller) Hornung.

He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1977. Frank was formerly employed at Klauer Manufacturing and Spahn and Rose Lumber Company.

Frank enjoyed fishing and gardening.

Surviving are his two children, Lisa Hornung of Bettendorf, IA., and Robbie (Vanessa) Hornung of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Gabe, Levi, Harper and Addison; his siblings, Gary (Linda) Hornung of Dubuque, Steven (Sue) Hornung of Peosta, IA, Chris (Deb) Hornung, of Blanchard, MI., Mary Jo (Jim) Pullen of Dubuque, Andy (Sheri) Hornung of Galena, IL, Ellen (Sue) Hornung, and Beth (Steve) Weydert both of Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harland and Mary, his son, Brian and sister, Lynn Kelly.

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

Carson T. Sickler

Carson Tyler Sickler, 4 months old, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on July 9th, 2023, at 7:30 a.m. at home.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Carson was born on February 25th, 2023, beloved son of Rachel Frye and Nickolas Sickler and twin brother of Scarlett. Carson was always the cool, calm, and collected one compared to his twin. He was our smiley feller. He loved his swing and was a true mama’s boy. He will forever be our sweet guardian angel.

Carson will forever be a guardian angel to his parents, siblings Rogan, Haven, Holden, and his twin Scarlett, maternal grandparents William and Julie Frye, paternal grandmother Penny Sickler, great grandparents Sandra Matson, Bill and Jana’s Frye, and Jean Gehrke, uncles Jim (Jessica) Frye and Christopher Frye, aunts Emile (Lance) Green, and Carlee springman, and many cousins who loved him very much.

Carson in reunited with his great grandpas Jim Majerus and Orville Matson.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established for Scarlett, his twin sister.

Thank you for the tremendous amount of support, donations, cards, kind words, and love we’ve been shown.