Obituaries Archive

Treyvor J. Craven

Treyvor Joseph Craven, 25, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on his birthday June 12th, 2023, as the result of an automobile accident.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday June 16, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday June 17, 2023, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Burial will be on a later date.

Treyvor was born on June 12, 1998, in Excelsior, Minnesota, cherished son of Tina (Hess) Medel and Herb Craven Jr. He attended Stephen Hempstead High School in Dubuque. After graduating, he pursued his passion for business and marketing, earning a BA degree from NICC in Peosta.

At the young age of 17, Treyvor founded his own business, Solely Clothing Company, displaying his entrepreneurial spirit and creativity. He became a prominent figure in the local business community, advocating for and supporting other local businesses, creating a strong network of mutual support. Treyvor was the life of the party and his charismatic personality and infectious smile lit up any room he entered. Treyvor’s professional journey also included roles as a bar manager at Lion’s Den in Galena, Illinois, and as a bartender at 7 Hills Brewing Company and the Dog House, both in Dubuque. He also worked in customer service as a specialist at Kendall Hunt Publishing Company. Beyond his professional achievements, Treyvor’s true passion resided in his love for animals. He donated over 2000 hours of his time to the Dubuque Humane Society, showcasing his selflessness, compassion, and commitment for others.

Treyvor had a magnetic personality and warm heart, and he possessed a unique ability to make people feel like he had known them forever. His corny jokes and infectious humor brightened the lives of those around him, leaving a permanent mark on their hearts. In addition to his magnetic personality, Treyvor possessed an eye for style that he fearlessly showcased.

Family always held a special place in Treyvor’s life, and he cherished the bond he shared with his mother, Tina. They were not only mother and son but also best friends, supporting and loving each other unconditionally. Through all their difficulties and adventures, they were there for each other, and his mom was always encouraging him to follow his dreams.

Treyvor was a wonderful son and a great soul to everyone. He had a wonderful heart, and charisma that can’t be put into words. He and his dad shared the same sense of humor. Treyvor and his dad always joked together and got each others jokes. His mom and dad are going to miss him and love him for the rest of their life.

He had so many ideas and plans for a bright future but, unfortunately, he earned his angel wings way too soon.

Treyvor is survived by his mom Tina Medel, his dad Herb Craven Jr., brother at heart, Noah Miller; brothers Zach (Kim) Scheiber, and Carson Kreiss; grandparents Richard Hess and Patricia Beuhler, aunts Tammy (John) Feldmann, Tracey (Rick Parker) Lynch, Tanya Miller, and Tiffany (Scott) Schiffer, Kelly (Keith) Kettler, Kim (Phil) Kellam, Nancy Hamill, Amanda Craven, Connie (Denard) Sutton, uncles Daniel Davis, Jeffrey Craven, and Christopher (Chris) Craven, and cousins Sam, Lucas and Jax Feldmann, Devon, Dylan, Roman, and Braylee Blanchard, Whitney Lynch, Noah, Cloie, and Sydni Miller, Laklend, Zayden, and Greyson Schiffer, Dewey Stover, and Matthew and Morgan Hall.

He was preceded in death by his grandpa Paul Craven, grandma Nancy Hess, and uncle David Davis.

In lieu of flowers, a Treyvor J. Craven Memorial Fund has been established.

Thank you to all of Treyvor’s family, friends and to the community for all of your love and support.

Lorna M. McLean

Lorna Mae McLean passed away at Stonehill Care Center on January 16, 2023.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm Monday, June 19, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Lorna will be 5:00 pm Monday, June 19, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.

Lorna Mae Jordan was born in Henry County, Iowa, on September 3, 1928, to Alta Belle Lauer Jordan, and Harry Wesley Jordan. She was raised on the family farm in Columbus Junction, youngest of four children. After World War II she met and fell in love with a Marine who had served in the South Pacific for three years, Neal Wright McLean, of Wapello. Neal and Lorna were married on December 14, 1946, at the Columbus Junction Methodist Church.

Because of her young age at graduation, 16, her father wouldn’t allow her to go off to Beauty School, as she desired. In her lifetime, she first worked for the phone company and later supported her husband at the lumber yard in Traer, where they worked for the Dubuque Lumber Company. She spent time at home with daughters, Tana and Rae Ann, until moving to Marion, where Neal worked at Collins Radio/Rockwell/Boeing, in Cedar Rapids. She entered the workforce in various jobs so the family could purchase a home.  She was an administrative assistant at Hanstrom-Hubley Implement Company, worked at Mercy Hospital as a switchboard operator, Killian’s Department Store, The First National Bank and became a CNA, working at Willow Garden Care Center and was a home healthcare aide. She was a strong and kind role model for her children, riding the bus to work so the girls could drive the car to school. She supported her family, cooking, sewing and being supportive of her husband and girls, as they participated in school and community activities. She encouraged her daughters to aspire to higher education, as she wasn’t allowed to do. She was a member of Eastern Star and attended the First Presbyterian Church in Marion, where she was active in the church community.

She and Neal loved dancing and would go to the Eagles’ Club in Cedar Rapids to dine and dance. They traveled Iowa with their daughters and loved to fish and picnic. Later, they went on bus trips with friends. They especially adored their granddaughters, taking them to the mall and Bishops. They also took pride in their great grandchildren, entertaining and lovingly caring for them.

Lorna is survived by her daughters, Tana (Leman) Olson, of Mason City, and Rae Ann (Rick) Dickinson, of Dubuque; her grandchildren, Marni (Eric) Luecht, of Arizona, Erin (Bill) Toelke, and Kristi (Mitch) Albers, of Minnesota, Katy (Bob) Wethal, and Sara Dickinson (Josh Lynch) of Dubuque; great grandchildren, Lauren and Annika Luecht, Quinlan and Graham Toelke, Campbell and Presley Albers, Grace, Alexandra and Julien Wethal, and Evie Raeann Staver, Nolan, Declan and  Brandon Lynch, all of Dubuque; her sister-in-law, Andree Morgan, of Nebraska; and many nieces and nephews.

Lorna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Neal, sisters Madeline Rees and Margie Keltner, one brother, Harry, Jr. Jordan and an infant brother, Arnold Perry Jordan.

Lorna’s family would like to thank the many healthcare providers who helped her to live a long, healthy life, including Dr. Brian Sullivan, Dr. Lisa Kramer, Dr. Mark Janes and Dr. Juan Nieto. Thank you to the staff at Stonehill, Oak Park Place and Hospice of Dubuque, who showed her much love and care as she lived her final years.

Memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center.

Helen A. Beckett

Helen A. Beckett, 101, of Dyersville passed away Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10 am on Monday, June 19, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Monday, June 19, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in St. Francis cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Helen was born on May 29, 1922, in Rockford, IL, the daughter of Charles and Josephine (Biel) Celner.  She married Harlan Beckett on January 23, 1954, in Spokane, WA.  Together, after moving to Dyersville, they owned Beckett Chevrolet for many years.

Survivors include her children: Charles (Linda) Beckett of Dyersville, John Beckett of Bellevue, Mary (Charles) Darsey of Fairfax and Christine (Jim) Melvin of Ankeny; 9 grandchildren: Michael (Candace) Beckett, David (Jarin) Beckett, Nicole (Mike Wright) Beckett, Michelle (Shaum) Jhansale, Eric (April Rottinghaus) Swanson, Adam Swanson, Brian (Emily) Beckett, Christopher (Jennifer) Melvin and Emily Melvin; 13 great-grandchildren: Chloe, Brandon and Ella Beckett, Avery and Noah Beckett, Paislee Wright, Aria Jhansale, Liam Swanson, Tayron Swanson, Daniela, Sam and Elena Beckett, and Truett Melvin.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Harlan, a son, Sam Beckett, nine siblings and 3 in-laws.

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.

Connie J. Reynolds

Connie J. Reynolds, age 57, of East Dubuque, IL, completed her earthly journey on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Connie’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, June 23, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 170 Montgomery Avenue in East Dubuque, IL.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:30–10:45 at the church prior to the service.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Connie’s family.

Connie was born on July 10, 1965, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter to Kenneth E. and Jean E. (Smith) Reynolds.  She was born with a heart of gold and spent the majority of her life dreaming of walking along the gentle rolling waves of the ocean with her toes in the sand.  She was a proud graduate of Wahlert High School Class of ’83, and earned her bachelor’s degree from Loras College Class of ’87.  Connie spent the last 16 years of her working career with the Rainbo Oil Company until she retired early last year due to health issues.  She made many friends along the way and was continually generous with the love she possessed with all who came into her life.  Connie loved spending time in her yard, her flower garden, and relaxing in her pool.  She was also quite fond of spoiling her nieces and nephews whenever the opportunity arose.  She never missed an opportunity to travel to a beach, especially to the Caribbean and Cabo, Mexico.  Connie loved animals, especially her fur baby, Lexi.  Connie was a fighter until the very end and will be missed more than words can capture.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Connie include,

her mother,
Jean Reynolds, East Dubuque, IL;

her three brothers,
Kirk (Dena) Reynolds, Solon, IA,
Eric (Erika) Reynolds, Phoenix, AZ,
and Chad (Margaret) Reynolds, Byron Center, MI;

her ten nieces and nephews,
Taylor, Jordon, Kinzie, Elle, Jack, Irelyand, Kyla, Heather, Lane, and Cole;

along with numerous aunts, uncles, extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Connie was preceded in death by her father, Kenneth Reynolds; her maternal grandparents, Leonard and Frances Smith; her paternal grandparents, Edward and Blanche Reynolds; and her fur babies, Rascal, Cassie, Riley, and Patches.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Connie’s name to Hospice of Dubuque, or the Whispurring Hope Animal Rescue.

Connie’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, along with her Aunt Pat, and dear friends, Traci and Donna, for all of the love and support they have all provided throughout this difficult time.  Their patience, generosity, compassion, and overall tender heartedness have truly helped to bring peace not only to Connie’s, but also to the hearts and minds of her family, and for that we are forever grateful.

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

Gary L. Lidke

Gary Lee Lidke, 73, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Gary L. Lidke was born on March 11, 1950, in Moline, Illinois to Fred and Annie (Rich) Lidke. He married Kathy Galloway on May 15, 1971, at the Elwood Methodist Church. They would spend 52 years together.

He worked as a tire technician for Harry’s Farm Tires where he installed tractor tires for many years. Gary loved horses paint horses especially, and horse sales so much, they became a part of his life journey for 50 years. He would travel many miles for a horse sale, Wisconsin, Minnesota, even Oklahoma and Texas. He was an avid trail rider and in the past years you could find him on the fence at the horse shows trying to tell the exhibitors what to do. Gary also loved old western movies.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Kathy Lidke of Maquoketa, IA; children, Kirk (Mindy) Lidke of Des Moines, IA, and Kody Lidke of Maquoketa, IA; Brother Charles Lidke of Wheatland, IA and One grandson, the apple of Grandpa’s eye, Zachery Lidke.

A celebration of his life will be held from 4- 6 P.M., Thursday, June 15, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. 

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

Gerald J. Haxmeier

Gerald J. “Gerry” Haxmeier, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 10th, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 16th, 2023, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. A live stream of the funeral mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, June 15th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 2:45 p.m. Private burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Gerry was born on December 3, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Louis T. and Catherine (Wanderscheid) Haxmeier.  He attended Tetes de Morts #3 by Bellevue, Iowa. He married Carol Hinke on March 20th, 1993 at Resurrection Catholic Church.

Throughout his life he had a passion for agriculture and draft horses. He owned and operated a custom combining business for 25 years.  When he wasn’t working on the farm, he was deer hunting or camping in the timber with his family.

He is survived by his wife Carol; children Jessi (Brian) Recker, Pam (Bryan) McCarron, and Shelley (Ken Hancock) Hinke. His grandchildren Justin Foust, Cody (Shandra) Foust, Nikki Foust (Parker DePonte, fiancé), Evalyn Flowers, Lindsay (Cameron) Schmidt, and Isabella Garcia; great grandchildren Hazel Foust and Brynn Foust. His siblings Betty (Gerald) Koos and Joanne (Herbert) Ernst. Sister-in-law Mildred Haxmeier.

Gerry was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter Chandra Hinke; siblings: Lois (Ardell) Deppe, Donald (Marilyn) Haxmeier, Mary (Donald) Helmle, Wayne “Bud” Haxmeier and Shirley (Joseph) Ernst and a brother-in-law Ronald Kuhl.

In lieu of flowers a Gerald Haxmeier memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank MercyOne Medical Center and the University of Iowa Hospital staff for all their compassion and kindness during such a difficult time.

Charlotte G. Chambers

Charlotte G. Chambers, age 89, of Dubuque, went to her eternal rest on June 11, 2023,  at Stonehill Health Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Church of the Nativity at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 15th, 2023, with Father Dwayne Thoman officiating.   Visitation will be at Nativity prior to the Mass from 8:30 a.m. and will end at 10:40 a.m.  The Holy Rosary will be recited by the Nativity Rosary Society Honor Guard at 10:40 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque is assisting the family.

Charlotte was born on June 22, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Louis O. Smothers and Helen (Ziel) Smothers.  She was a devoted member of the Church of the Nativity, Nativity Rosary Society, The Power of Prayer, and Love Holy Trinity Blessed Mission. She was a very active volunteer in the Chapel and all religious activities at Windsor Park, where she resided for the past 23 years, until moving to Stonehill 6 months ago.  She was employed as a secretary and bookkeeper by Banworth & Udelhoven Furniture World for 62 years, retiring at the age of 89.  

Surviving is one sister, Jeane Beau; two sisters-in-law Dorothy Smothers and Deb Phillips; 5 nieces and 6 nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her father, Louis O. Smothers, her mother, Helen M.  (Smothers) Phillips, her step-mother Loretta Smothers, her sister and brother-in-law Louise and Allan Miller, and two half-brothers, Louis M. Smothers and Billy Phillips, and her very special lifelong friend, George Banworth.

Charlotte loved God above all else.  She treasured her Catholic Faith as her greatest gift.  She had a very faithful prayer life and devotion to our Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Rosary.  She asks that we all offer Masses and prayers for her soul.

Memorials may be given to the Dubuque County Right to Life or Love Holy Trinity Blessed Mission.

Charlotte leaves her heartfelt gratitude to her beloved family and friends who helped her through this difficult time, to her Love Holy Trinity Blessed Mission family, to all her caregivers at Stonehill Health Center, especially her very special aide, Tamisha, to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela,  and to Dr. Khan and Dr. Kumor.

Lyle L. Hefel

Lyle L. Hefel, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 8th, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Tuesday June 20th, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque 2921 Central Ave. Friends and family may visit from 10:00 to 11:00 at the church. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa, with military honors accorded by the Dubuque American Legion Post #6. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Lyle was born on July 19th, 1936, in Buena Vista, Iowa, son of George and Emma (Errthum) Hefel. He honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1954-1957, and was stationed in Guam, Philippines. He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works as a machinist in the experimental lab from 1959 until his retirement in 1992. He was a proud member of the NRA and EAA (Experimental Aircraft Association), as well as numerous racing organizations. He was awarded the 1996 Custom Built Award in Oshkosh by the EAA for his RV-4 plane, Lyle also won the prestigious Wright Brothers Award in 1994, as well as multiple other EAA awards.

He is survived by his brother Jerome Hefel, sisters Marilyn (Mike) Nitz, Donna Reid, Grace Greene, sister-in-law Donna Hefel, and 22 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Irene (Lawrence) Haupt, brothers Kenneth (Jayne) Hefel and Richard Hefel, sister-in-law Sharon Hefel, and brothers-in-law Keith Reid and Michael Greene.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center for all their love and care of their brother.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to EAA Chapter 327, Dubuque, IA.

Clement Steele

Clement Steele, 85, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, June 9, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, June 17, at Church of the Resurrection, where Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 a.m. on Saturday. Rev. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Asbury. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Clem was born June 16, 1937 in Waukon, IA, the son of Burnell and Lois (Stubstad) Steele. He was the oldest of eight siblings (7 brothers and 1 sister).  He married Mary Jane Valley on August 11, 1962 in Prairie du Chien and they were married over 60 years.

Clem was educated at Campion High School, Marquette University, Loras College, University of Wisconsin, Rutgers, University of Iowa, and University of Wyoming. After moving to Dubuque, Clem worked at the AEA, teaching computer education to both educators and students in North Eastern Iowa. He went on to teach at Loras College as a Professor of Education, retiring in 2000.

Clem served in the Wisconsin National Guard.

He was a member of Church of the Resurrection. Clem was an active member of the Dubuque Noon Lions Club for over forty years, during which time he served in many positions.  Clem and Jane launched the program KidSight with the Lions Club, providing vision screening to thousands of local preschool children over a 15 year period. Clem and Jane greatly enjoyed traveling with their travel friends, the Fitzgeralds and the Gartners. Together they were able to visit countries in 6 different continents.  He also enjoyed playing cribbage, euchre, and golf.

Clem is survived by his wife, Jane Steele, of Dubuque;  two children, Teri (Dave Sivertsen) Steele, of Boise, ID, and Dan (Lisa) Steele, of Mesa, AZ; his grandchildren, Alazda (Travis) Kaun, of Waunakee, WI, Zara (Carl Tiede) Sivertsen, of Rice Lake, WI, and Samuel, Sydney, Kayleigh, and Jack Steele, all of Mesa, AZ;  his great-grandchildren, Maxwell, Brinley, and Emmie Kaun, of Waunakee, WI; his siblings, Mary (Gene) Kirschbaum, of Prairie du Chien, WI, Richard (Sheila) Steele, of Onalaska, WI, Vince (Sandy) Steele, of LaCrosse, WI, Michael Steele, of Hudson, WI, and Dennis (Sharon) Steele, of Prairie du Chien, WI; and two sisters-in-law, Marian Steele, of Madison, WI, and Sally Steele, of Prairie du Chien, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Maureen Steele; two brothers, Bill and Peter Steele; and a sister-in-law, JoEllen Steele.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the KidSight program with the Dubuque Noon Lions Club, or Church of the Resurrection. The family would like to extend thanks to the caregivers at Mercy Hospital, Hospice of Dubuque, and Hawkeye Care Center.

Donald “Wayne” Small

Donald “Wayne” Small, 81, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, June 12, 2023, at home.

Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 6 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, June 16, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Rev. Brian Dellaert will officiate. Interment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, with military honors accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Wayne was born June 9, 1942 in Dubuque, the son of Raymond and Marion “Louise” (Noonan) Small. He served his country with the U.S. Air Force from 1961 to 1965, serving during the Cuban Missile Crisis. On April 22, 1967 he married Rose Heiderscheit at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Rickardsville.

Wayne was a longtime member of St. Joseph the Worker Parish, where he and Rose were active as greeters, sacristans, eucharistic ministers, singing with the funeral choir, and 3^rd Sunday collection. He and Rose also helped out at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Wayne was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years, retiring in 1995. After retirement, Wayne worked as a shuttle van driver for the University of Dubuque. He was a member of Catholic Order of Foresters #774, Rickardsville, and Knights of Columbus #510. He was a regular Blood Donor for the Red Cross, achieving nine gallons donated.

Wayne and Rose loved to travel all over, including Alaska, the East Coast, Canada, and Vegas. He enjoyed visiting various Presidential Libraries. Wayne always made sure to keep the yard in tip-top shape. Wayne enjoyed taking walks, whether it was at the mall, or outside in warmer weather. Wayne and Rose loved going out to eat at Kalmes and Timmerman’s, where they had a special table.

Wayne is survived by his wife of 56 years, Rose, of Dubuque; his siblings,  Nancy Humphries, of Morris, IL, John Small, of Dubuque, Mary Ellen Darm, of Morris, IL, Delilah (John) Schissel, of Rockford, IL,  Dennis Barclay,  and Patty Bonert, of Farley, IA; his in-laws, Mark (Karen) Heiderscheit and their son, Tim, and Pauline (Norlyn) Michel.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his paternal grandparents, Leslie and Martha Small, his maternal grandparents, William and Mary Noonan; his sisters, Sharil and Audry Small, Avis (Glen) Middaugh, and Norma Rodosky; his brothers, Leslie and James Small, and Robert Ford; his in-laws Richard Humphries, Dean Darm, Carl Bonert, Betty Small, Dianne Small, and Donald Heiderscheit; and his parents-in law, Francis and Mildred Heiderscheit.

Rose would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Adrienne, Jessica, Ryan, Amy, Brittany, and Sarah; and Dr. Amy Ewen and her nurse Roxanne, for all their care of Wayne.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.

Joan M. Ricketts

Joan M. (Tranel) Ricketts, 75, of Asbury, IA, formerly of East Dubuque and Menominee, IL died at 3:42 P.M. Sunday June 11, 2023 following an acute illness, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 15, 2023 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 14th at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

She was born on December 17, 1947 in Menominee, IL daughter of Aloysius “Fritz” and Albertha (Schonhoff) Tranel.  Joan attended high school at the St. Clara Academy, Sinsinawa, then joined the Sisters of St Francis Convent Dubuque for two years.

Joan married Karl Ricketts on September 14, 1974 at Nativity BVM Catholic Church in Menominee and enjoyed 34 years of marriage before his passing in 2009.

Before she was married and until the birth of her first child she worked at First National Bank of Dubuque for the Senior Vice President.  When her children were in high school she began working at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary as an administrative assistant for the Dean of the Seminary.  She spent 20 wonderful years there and enjoyed her great boss and working with the professors.

Joan was active in St Mary’s East Dubuque School and Parish.  She served as homeroom mother for 7 years and on the school board for 3 years.  She was moderator of the St Joseph’s Adoration Chapel in East Dubuque for 4 years.  She was a committee chairperson and parish rep for the Jo Daviess County Country Festival for 30 years and was on the JDCCF Board as Treasurer for 8 years.

Her husband, 3 children and 6 grandchildren were the center of her life.  Her family created true happiness and joy in her life, and She felt God truly blessed her with this wonderful family.

Surviving are her three sons, Robert Ricketts of Dubuque, Matt (Liz) Ricketts of Menominee, IL, and Dennis Ricketts of Dubuque; two sisters Rose Ann Kunkel and Connie (Doug) Brock, a sister in law Mary Jo Eigenberger; six grandchildren Allie, Isabel, Brynn, Vivian, Carter, Camille; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fritz and Albertha Tranel, husband Karl Ricketts and sister Janet Vosberg.

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

Joy A. Eads

Joy Ann Eads, 86, of Preston, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, June 9, 2023, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa.

Joy Ann Struble was born on June 10, 1936, in Spragueville, Iowa, at the home of her parents, Theodore and Delia (Ehlers) Struble. She received her first eight grades of education at Fairfield #4 and graduated from Preston High School in 1954.  While in high school she met the love of her life, Irving “Charles” Eads. They were married on Easter Sunday, April 6, 1958, in Miles, Iowa.  To this union two sons were born, Aaron and Owen.  Charles preceded her in death on January 25, 1975.

Following graduation from high school, Joy began working at Kunau Implement in Preston.  She worked there for five years and then decided to work full-time on the family farm they had rented upon their marriage.  In the late 1960’s a decision was made to purchase the farm from Charles’ aunt.  She had made her home on the Eads-McNeil Heritage Farm ever since.

As a youth Joy was very active in 4-H and when her two sons were of 4-H age she served on the county youth committee and for 18 years on the county 4-H Food stand committee.

Joy was a lifetime member and former board member of the Jackson County Historical Society, and a charter member of the Jackson County Genealogical Society founded in 1976.

Joy had a great passion for extensive genealogical collection of both hers and Charles’ ancestors as well as current generations, aunts, uncles, and cousins She liked listening to music such as Polka, Big Bands, and sharing her memories of attending a Spike Jones concert.  She enjoyed sewing, crocheting, baking, gardening, and her many colorful daylilies.

Those left to honor her memory include sons, Aaron Eads of Preston, IA, and Owen Eads of Miles, IA; nephew, Dennis (Bev) Eads, and niece LaVonne (John) House; and a wonderful and helpful relative friend, Sally Marvin.  She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, sister Nola Jean (Marlin) Hoffmann, niece Kay Hoffmann, and brothers-in-law, Glenna (Rose) Eads and James Eads.

A graveside service and burial for close family and friends celebrating Joy’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, June 15, 2023 at Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. on Thursday at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Jackson County Historical Society or the Jackson County Humane Society.

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

John H. Naber

John H. Naber, 84, of Dyersville, Iowa, formerly of Worthington, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at Ellen Kennedy Assisted Living Center in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation for John will be held from 2 to 8 p.m., on Monday, June 12, 2023, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for John will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, with Rev. Chris Podhajsky presiding. Burial will be held at St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa.

John was born on July 6, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George and Petronella “Nellie” (Heying) Naber.  He grew up on a farm just south of New Vienna.  He received his education at the St. Boniface School in New Vienna.   He was united in marriage to Jacqueline A. Even on October 1, 1960, at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa.  She preceded him in death on April 27, 2013.

Together the couple farmed in the rural Worthington area. John also did custom farm work for many farmers in the area.

John was a member of the St. Paul’s Parish in Worthington, Iowa.

Those left to cherish his memory are his seven children, Lynne (Rob) Schultz of Madison, WI, Barb (Tom) Helle of Guttenberg, Cindy (Bob) Ludwig, Kris (Bob) Rausch, Sandi (Pat) Feldmann, and Larry (Joyce) Naber all of Dyersville, and Andy (Erica) Naber of Worthington; 20 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; four siblings, Jim (Judy) Naber, Art (Rosie) Naber both of New Vienna, Mary Jane (Leroy) Gaul of Dyersville, and Rita (Gerald) Nurre of Petersburg; brothers and sisters-in-law, Kenny Roling of New Vienna, Jerry (Pat) Even, and Dora (Don) Demmer both of Dyersville; and a special friend, LouAnn Deutmeyer of Dyersville.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Grace Ann Roling; father and mother-in-law, Laverne and Ardella (Rauen) Even; and a nephew, Terry Gaul.

A John H. Naber memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Thomas J. Wernimont

Thomas J. Wernimont, Sr., age 65, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:00 a.m., on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  Private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Tom’s family.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Tom was born on March 3, 1958, in Dubuque, son of Walter and Lois (Gilligan) Wernimont.

He attended St. Columbkille’s School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.

Tom worked for Creslanes and Imperial Lanes before beginning his career in the auto industry.  He worked for Bill on the Hill, Vango Automotive, A-Ok Yellow Cab and eventually settling in to his new family at Richardson’s in Dubuque.

Tom married Patricia Tuthill and together they had three children before going their separate ways.  He later married Anne Burchette in 1994.  They were together for 22 years and three more children before their divorce in 2016. Together, Tom and Anne owned and operated Beanie’s Café from 1993 until 2009.

In his free time Tom was a true outdoorsman and loved his time spent on the water fishing. His family was his greatest accomplishment and there were many great memories made traveling and taking vacations with his family. They loved getting together to play cards and enjoy a little Jack Daniel’s.
Tom loved music and trying his luck at the casino.  He was a very social person and was regularly the life of the party with his fun-loving spirit and his mischievous nature. Tom was well-known for his elaborate pranks and had many “victims” over the years.  His greatest joy came from spending all the time he could with his grandkids.  Tom was very proud of the birthday he shared with his oldest grandson Dakota, and the special connections he had with all of them.

Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include

his children,
T.J. (Nicole) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Kay) Wernimont, Marl, Germany,
Josh (Karissa) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA,
Amanda (Joshua) Jotham, Dubuque, IA,
Travis (Felicity) Wernimont, Ashburton, New Zealand
and Tyler (Brandy) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA;

his 18 grandchildren,
Dakota, Dylan, Drew, Caleb, Connor, Layne, Charlie, Annabelle, Nolan, Lucy, Dexter, Porsha, Harley, Gena, Jenna, Brianna, Jamie and Jocelyn;

his siblings,
Linda Johnsen, Lodi, WI,
Ken (Karen) Wernimont, Davenport, IA,
Sandy (Bob) Johnsen, Dubuque, IA
Jim (Rhonda) Wernimont, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Deb Callahan, Dubuque, IA;

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Alvin Wernimont; and a brother-in-law, Lynn Johnsen.

Tom’s family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Specialty Care for the great care they provided.  They would also like to thank his “family” at Richardson Motors for all the help and support these past several months.

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. Thomas Wernimont, Sr. Family.

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

Mel J. Berendes

Mel J. Berendes, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 8th, 2023, at Stonehill Health Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 13th, 2023, at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. Andy Upah and Msgr. James Miller officiating. The burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, June 12th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to conclude at 7:00 p.m.

Mel was born on March 5, 1950, in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Earl and Sylvia (Frantzen) Berendes Sr. He graduated from Marquette High School in Bellevue and worked at Georgia Pacific for 40 years. After retirement, he pursued his true passion and became a paraprofessional at Table Mound Elementary School.

Mel married Marilyn Herrig; Mel was a loving husband and gave his wife of 52 years kisses until the end.  He showed his sons how to be a good husband, a good father, a good friend and a good man. He was all these things; he will be missed but his legacy will live on. His eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren are his greatest legacy.

Mel approached each day with a smile on his face. A smile that Alzheimer’s disease never dented let alone defeated. He continues to smile on his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife Marilyn; two sons Chad (Nancy) Berendes, of Dubuque and Mike (Julie) Berendes, of Whitestown, IN. His grandchildren Cayla, Mitchell (Carissa), Jenna and Nolan Berendes; Sam, Jackson, Sawyer and Owen Berendes; two great grandchildren Cabe and Maeve Berendes. His sister Anita Rowan; sister-in-law Phyllis (Tim) Chantos; and his brother-in-law Don Herrig.

Mel was preceded in death by his parents; Earl and Sylvia; father and mother-in-law Merlin and Lyda Herrig; daughter-in-law Kristi Berendes; brothers Loras Berendes and Earl (Ruth) Berendes; his sister Phyllis (Dave) Hutter and brother-in-law Eldon Rowan.

In lieu of flowers a Mel Berendes memorial fund will be established.

The family wishes to thank Stonehill Health Center and Hospice of Dubuque especially Brittney and Peggy for all their care, kindness and compassion they gave to Mel and his family.