Obituaries Archive

Elaine C. Till

Elaine C. (Kilburg) Till, 74, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at Mercy One in Dubuque.  Private Celebration of Life will be held.

Local arrangements at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Elaine was born August 5, 1948, the daughter of Albert N. and Mary A. (Reuter) Kilburg.  She married Jerry Till on July 6, 1968 in Bellevue.  Elaine loved helping others and spent much of her adult life working in service related roles in Bellevue and Dubuque.  Elaine most cherished the time spent with her husband, children and grandchildren.  She loved decorating for Christmas and had a Christmas Village collection she enjoyed displaying each holiday season.  Elaine enjoyed sewing, knitting stockings, and playing the accordion.  She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Jerry; children, Mike (Jodi) Till, Melissa (Kevin) Felderman and Marty (Tammy) Till; grandchildren, Courtney (Josh) Shaw, Hayley Till, Nicole (Matt Dowling) Felderman, Kayla (Adam Mueller) Felderman, Meagan Norton, Tyler Till, Spencer Norton, and Brody Till; and a future great-granddaughter, Shaw; also surviving; 7 siblings; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents.

Special Thank You to Dr. Farooq & staff at the University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics, Dr. Engelman & staff at Mercy Medical Associates Cancer Center, and Mercy One in Dubuque and staff for your loving care of Elaine during this time.

Condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Elaine Till Family at 100 N. 6^th Street Bellevue, IA  52031.

Any memorials would gladly be accepted and will be directed to HOPE LODGE in Iowa City.

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

Arla J. Beers

Arla Jean Beers, 93, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday morning, May 18, 2023, at The Woodlands in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Arla Jean Beers was born on November 20, 1929 in Delmar, Iowa, to Fred and Maisie (Mullett) Beers.  She grew up in Delmar and was a graduate of Delmar High School where she was the class valedictorian.  Following high school, she moved to Cedar Rapids and worked for Northwestern Bell as a switchboard operator for many years.

Arla enjoyed genealogy and researching her family tree, scrapbooking, spending time with her family, and going to movies and dinner with her friend Lucille when they were able.

Those left to honor her memory include nieces, Penny (Jerry) Lundeen of Bettendorf, IA and Stephanie Mohr of Des Moines, IA; great nieces and nephews, Phil Alexander of Stanwood, WA, Todd Alexander of Chino Hills, CA, Chris (Elaina) Snowdy of Marysville, WA, Tracy Hart of Stanwood, WA, Jessica Koenen of Laguna Niguel, CA, Jennifer (Dave) Fredericksen of Eldridge, IA, Sarah (Daniel) Kline of Des Moines, IA, Kim (Paul) Rieff of Fairfax, IA, Kathy (Chad) Szabo of Cedar Rapids, IA, Daniel (Melissa) Kolsto of Cedar Rapids, IA, Kris (Jason) Tapken of Cedar Rapids, IA, Rob (Angie) Penningroth of Clarence, IA, Dave (Sandy) Sharon of Des Moines, IA, and Larry Kolsto Cedar Rapids, IA; and numerous great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Edward Beers, nephew Phil Alexander, and nieces Evelyn Fullmer and Susan Kolsto.

Jean’s love for her family and the kindness and compassion she held for others in her heart will forever be remembered.  We will forever carry her memory close in our hearts.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

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

Michelle M. Hamilton

Michelle M. Hamilton, age 58, of Lancaster, WI, completed her earthly journey on May 19, 2023, at home while surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.  To honor Michelle’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on June 16, 2023, beginning at 6:00 p.m., at the Schreiner Memorial Library, 113 West Elm Street, in Lancaster.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Michelle’s family.

Michelle was born on November 23, 1964, in Prairie Du Chien, WI, a daughter to Dale F. and Mary A. (Ewoldt) O’Brien.  She grew up with a love for family that was never quenched throughout her entire life among us.  Michelle met her soul-mate, Randy L. Hamilton, and the two were united in marriage on March 15, 1986.  They were blessed with four children and many wonderful years together.  In their early years, Michelle enjoyed traveling with Randy in the truck and exploring the southern states together.  Their love grew with each passing years, and even through her long and courageous battle with cancer, Michelle’s love and determination were always on display.  She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother whose greatest joy in life was to have them by her side.  It was quite common to find Michelle sitting on the floor playing intently with the grandbabies whenever they were around.  In her free-time, she enjoyed creating countless sewing, crocheting and knitting projects, but when the opportunity arose to spend a little time in the kitchen baking up some fresh bread, cookies, and cinnamon rolls, she was always ready to treat her family to the delicious treats as well.  Saturdays held a special place in Michelle’s heart as this meant the time had arrived to head out to the garage sales and Quilt Shops looking for that week’s treasures to be hunted down and gathered home.  If a little downtime made it’s way into her busy day, you could be sure to find the Food Network playing in the background.  But, again, Michelle’s greatest joy in this life was ultimately her family.  Visiting with her Mom and sister were perfectly fine ways to spend some quality time and any moment she had those whom she loved and adored nearby was always the best way to fill the day.  We will miss our dear, sweet Michelle moving forward and it’s beyond difficult to imagine life without her love and light shining so brightly within our own lives.  Her legacy of love will undeniably live on through her children and grandchildren and the abundance of beautiful memories will hopefully help to heal our broken hearts in time.  Thank you, Michelle, for reminding us that life is as fragile as it is fleeting, but the moments the Lord is kind enough to grant us are invaluable.  May you find peace now in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior and may our hearts and minds find comfort and healing in time as we await our eternal reunion also.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Michelle include,

her loving husband of 37 years,
Randy Hamilton, Lancaster, WI;

her three adored daughters,
Megan (Everett Butzine) Hamilton, Lancaster, WI,
Jeanie Hamilton, Lancaster, WI,
and Theresa (Colton) Skaggs, Dubuque, IA;

her three precious grandchildren,
Laken Schildgen, Roman Hamilton, and Blye Skaggs;

her siblings,
Pat O’Brien, Shullsburg, WI,
Randy (Laurie) O’Brien, Benton, WI,
and Jolene Simpson, Boscobel, WI;

the damn dogs,
Gracie and Koda;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Michelle was preceded in death by her son, James Randy “J.R.” Hamilton; her grandparents, James (Mae) Cox; and her maternal grandparents, Wilson (Irma) Ewoldt.

In lieu of flowers, memorials, gifts, and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Michelle’s family at 341 E. Cherry St, Lancaster, WI, 53813.  We would like to thank you in advance for your sympathy and care as we establish Michelle’s memorial fund at Royal Bank.

Michelle’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Grant Regional Health Center, and St. Croix Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care of Michelle, and her family.  Your sincere concern, patience, and immeasurable generosity have truly made a difference in this very difficult days and for that we are eternally grateful.

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

Shannon M. Graper

Shannon Marie Graper, 45, of Dubuque, went to the embrace of Jesus on Monday, May 22, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center with family surrounding her.

Visitation will be Friday, May 26th from 9:30 to 11:15 am with a Celebration of Shannon’s Life at 11:30 am at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Shannon was born November 16, 1977, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Ronal and Ruth Graper. Despite her disability and numerous health issues, Shannon lived a life of adventure in numerous states and in England. Due to the onset of what would become a lifelong battle with mental illness, Shannon moved from England to Dubuque, Iowa to live with her aunt and uncle, Lynn and Ken Helmke, who were able to facilitate increased support services for her. They were a tremendous support throughout her life.

Shannon graduated from Hempstead High School in 1997 and soon after moved into an apartment with agency assistance. She loved boot-scooting/dancing, animals, crafting, praise music, and making cards to express love to others. She treasured family and was most happy when having family time. Hills & Dales staff and friends became Shannon’s second family. Shannon’s faith in Jesus was paramount in her life and was reflected in her love for others as well as daily spending time reading her Bible and journaling. She loved her church family at Hope Church, and part of her legacy is Hope Church’s special needs ministry, SHINE, that was started because of Shannon’s persistence.

Shannon will be remembered by her beautiful smile, frequent hugs, Kings on the Corner card games, and frequent response to compliments with, “I am, aren’t I” or “I do, don’t I”- often while wearing pink or purple.

Survivors include her father, Ronal Graper, Maquoketa; mother, Ruth Graper, Dubuque; grandmother, Ann Philippi, Dubuque; brother, Cory (Jolene) Graper, Rapid City, SD; sisters, Jill (Gustavo) Hernandez, Lubbock, TX, Jessica (Shawn) Hilborn, Dubuque, Elizabeth (Carl) McCoy, Rochester, IL, nieces and nephews: Jasmine, Jordan, Madison, Alathea, Sofia, Ethan, Emma, Ella; and several beloved aunts, uncles and cousins.

Shannon was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents and maternal grandfather.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Hills & Dales.

A special thank you to Hills & Dales staff, Dr. Michael Peroski, MercyOne Psychiatry Department, and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Kathy Donath

Kathy Donath, 67, of Dubuque, passed away at home on May 22, 2023.

There will be a celebration of life at Sullivan Pavilion at Asbury Park on June 17, 2023, from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque assisted the family.

Kathy was born on June 16, 1956, in New Hampton, IA, the daughter of Herbert and Betty Tillman.

She graduated from North Fayette High School and then from Clarke College with a BA in Social Work.

Through the years, Kathy had worked at Econo Foods, Fareway and Menards.

Kathy loved to bake.  Family was also very important to her.  She loved talking to her sisters, especially right after an episode of Survivor or Big Brother.  She loved spending time with her cat Freedom.

Survivors include her son Jasen (Tracy) Otting; daughter Jenny Maser; grandchildren: Ashley (Andre) Otting, Timothy (Shelby) Brand, Bailey Otting, Elijah Hammel; great-grandchildren: Masen Otting and Lacy Henkel.  Also, her beloved cat, Freedom.

Preceding her in death are her parents Herbert and Betty Tillman, her sister Karen Olson, and the father of her children Raymond Otting.

Wendy Jo Hinman

Wendy Jo (Crouse) Hinman, 64, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away surrounded by her loving family on May 20th, 2023 at UnityPoint Health, St Luke’s in Cedar Rapids.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, May 26th, 2023, with service to follow at 6:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Internment will be at a later date at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Wendy was born on December 26, 1958, to Frank Jesse Crouse and Shirley Ann (Novak) Crouse, in Ames, Iowa. She married David Lee Hinman on July 18, 1988, and lived a 34-year loving marriage.

Wendy was a life-long dedicated and talented musician who played french horn. Through her musical career she performed with the Decatur Symphony Orchestra, Waterloo/Cedar Falls Symphony Orchestra, Dubuque Symphony Orchestra, Des Moines Symphony Orchestra, Muscatine Symphony and Clinton Symphony, The Grand Opera House, Dubuque Chamber Winds, Various Brass and Woodwind Quintets, NISOM, Clark University, Loras University, the University of Dubuque, The Tri State Wind Symphony and The Julien Winds. She served on the board for the Julian Winds for a number of years. She taught French horn to many talented and award winning young French musicians.

Wendy is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, David Hinman, three daughters Ashley (Judd) Billmeyer, of Farley, IA. Courtney (AJ) Leib of Dubuque, IA. Holly Hinman of Dubuque, IA, three beautiful grandchildren Cole, Kamrynn, Freya. She is also survived by three brothers Michael (Eleanor) Crouse of DeKalb, IL, Corbin (Sherri) Crouse of Florida, David (Julie) Crouse of LeClaire, IA; and two Sisters Robyn Crouse, Leigh (Wayne Gurda) Crouse of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in Death by her parents Frank and Shirley Crouse.

Special thanks to Kevin and Paul Price-Brenner the Kennel Club and Arts Communities as they were very meaningful to her life.

This life is just a symphony
Each section is a stage
It ebbs and flows,
it crescendos With love,
and pain, and rage
There’s melodies of laughter
That fade away to tears
There’s strings of hope & chaos
And drumlines made of fear
Trumpeters of honesty
Winds of magic change
And a Maestro that directs it all
From the front of every stage
Its woven all together
Like the Fates upon a loom
All the tragedies and triumph
The glory and the gloom
And when the symphony is over
When the final notes are played
With a bow unto the angels
The Musician leaves the stage.

Mandy Kocsis©2020 (modified)

Walter W. McLaughlin

Walter “Wally” W. McLaughlin, 62, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 21st, 2023, from a short battle with cancer, surrounded by his family and friends.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 25th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. The funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 26th, 2023, at the funeral home.

Wally was born on October 14, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of T.J. and Venita (Entringer) McLaughlin. He attended Nativity grade school and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1979. He married his “snow white princess” Cindy Thul on October 14, 1994.

Wally worked hard all his life in the trucking industry. He started his trucking career driving for the Dubuque Pack. He then drove for Swiss Valley Farms where he became a distribution manager. Other companies he worked for include HAB, XPO Logistics, and most recently First Fleet as a driver and driver trainer.

Wally was the go-to guy for many of his trucker friends if they just wanted to talk, needed directions, or help with the computer system. He also liked pranks, practical jokes, and telling stories. If he gave you a nickname, you were a friend for life. He enjoyed his early Sunday morning breakfasts with his buddies, especially when cooked by his good friend Jeff. He rarely missed a Sunday night at his mom’s.

Wally was fiercely proud of his large family, his kids, grandkids, and many nieces and nephews. When his schedule allowed, you could find him cheering them on at their various activities.

Wally is survived by his wife Cindy, children Ryan Kraft, Amy (Tim) Meisenburg, Angie (Jake) Gantenbein, and Molly McLaughlin, his mom Venita McLaughlin, grandkids Carson, Cameron, Chloe, and Cooper Meisenburg, siblings Sheila Brewer, Nola (John) Hinderman, Tom (Jane) McLaughlin, Mary Jane McLaughlin, Sharon (Ed) Busch, John (Barb) McLaughlin, Ellen (Jeff) Reuter, Carol (Dave) Wilson, Marilyn (A.J.) Thoma, Bob (Vicky) McLaughlin, mother-in-law Carole Thul, siblings-in-law Nick Thul, Lisa (Stacie) Thul-Remick, and Tracy (Pat) Connolly, godchildren Jessie Bennett, Heather Busch, and Riley Connolly, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his dad T.J. McLaughlin, sister Diane “Ruby” Aurit, grandparents Tom and Helen McLaughlin and Tony and Stella Entringer, father-in-law Dave Thul, and brother-in-law Dave Thul.

We wish to thank Dr. Lawrence Hutchensen for keeping the big guy healthy all these years, as well as Dr. Herman, and Hospice of Dubuque – especially Kristen – for their care in his final days, and his sisters and Amy with their knowledge and tricks to aide in his comfort the last few weeks – especially Shelia, his personal nurse over the years.

In lieu of flowers, a Walter “Wally” W. McLaughlin Memorial Fund has been established.

Gerald A. Kilburg

Helen Carew Steele

In Remembrance of Helen Steele

Helen Carew Steele, age 97, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023, at home with family by her side.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 26, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. David Schatz officiating and Msgr. Richard Funke Concelebrating.  Private entombment will be in St. Joseph Chapel Mausoleum at Mount Olivet Cemetery.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements.

Helen was born on September 29, 1925, in Dubuque, Iowa, to loving parents, Neil and Mary (Maloy) Carew.  She graduated from Mercy School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  She was employed by Medical Associates Dubuque in 1950.

She was united in loving marriage for 49 years with Don T. Patrick Steele, until Don’s passing on December 29, 1998.

Helen lived her life in faith, surrounded by family and friends.  Her home was the center of our family and the place of fond memories for many years. Helen cherished the Plymouth Court neighborhood and enjoyed following neighborhood kids throughout their lives.

Helen had a wonderful community in Dubuque, including St. Columbkille’s Parish and Dubuque Golf and Country Club, where she was active in golf, tennis, and bridge.

Surviving are her children Mary Kay Mickelson of Des Moines, Ellen Steele Allare (Greg Allare) of Phoenix, Arizona, Michael D. Steele (Susan) of Dubuque, and Brigid Ann Steele (Michael Matone) of Lakewood Ranch, Florida; and her grandchildren John Mickelson (Brooke) and their children, Jack, Tucker, Hansen and Hunter, Ashley and Danny Steele, Katie Allare (Joe Verburgt), and Gregory (Rachel) Allare and their daughter Violet, and many nieces and nephews throughout the country.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband Don T. Patrick and her sons, Timothy Emmett and Pat.  She was also preceded in death by her parents Neil and Mary Carew, and her siblings, Joseph Carew, Margaret Mary Simon, and Alan Carew.

A special thanks to Ann, Danguole, Tall Helen and Hillary.

Memorial donations may be given to St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

Marc F. De Young

Marc F. De Young, 75 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, May 15, 2023, at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, June 3, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of mass. The burial will be in the church cemetery. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born October 8, 1947, in Guam the son of George and Marian (Ziemba) De Young. Marc served in the United States Army from 1968 serving in Turkey until his honorable discharge in 1970. Marc was employed by the Chicago Board of Education for thirty years until his retirement. He and his wife moved to Cedar Rapids, IA where he worked for the Holy Family School System. They then made their home in Galena where he worked for the Eagle Ridge Resort maintenance department. Marc worked hard all his life. He was a good man and a jack of all trades who loved to be busy. Marc was always there for anyone who needed help to lend a hand. Dementia and cancer may have taken his life, but he always had a smile on his face for everyone. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of fifty-five years, Susan, a son, Christopher (Cindy) De Young of Jacksonville, FL, a daughter, Tina (Jeremy) Bowers of Minooka, IL, grandfather or “Papa” of, Will, Cooper and Jonathan Bowers, two brothers-in-law, Michael Walter and Patrick “PJ” Skoglund, two nieces, Kristin Michelle Skoglund and Dawn Corbett, nephew, Michael Corbett, nephew and godson, Paul Walter Skoglund, a cousin, Tim Kwasniewski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Paulette Munson, and his mother and father-in-law, Walter and Lorraine Skoglund, a brother-in-law, Raymond Skoglund, and a nephew, Jimmy Corbett.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Richard Farrell and the staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Midwest Medical Center. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Aubrey A. Grahn

Aubrey A. “Speed” Grahn, age 90, of East Dubuque, IL, completed his earthly journey on May 21, 2023, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Aubrey’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at the Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, IL, where full military honors will be accorded.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Aubrey’s family.

Aubrey was born on December 17, 1932, in Montello, WI, a son to Chris and Jessie (Bohr) Grahn.  He went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War after high school and eventually made his way to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he not only earned his Bachelors Degree, but also met the love of his life, Mary Young.  They were united in marriage and blessed with two sons, which brought Aubrey great joy as he always strived to be the best husband and father his family could hope for.  He enjoyed life, both at work and home, and spent over 15 years with Eska Outboard Motors as the service director.  The family had lived in other locations with Aubrey’s careers prior to settling down in East Dubuque where they eventually made their permanent home among friends.  Aubrey was an avid Badger and Packers fan and he and Mary held season tickets since 1963 until only a few years ago.  He was also a pilot in his free-time and always enjoyed the opportunity to spend an afternoon soaring among the eagles whenever possible.  We will miss his kind and gentle soul walking among us and life will simply not ever be the same moving forward, but we are forever grateful for the years and the memories which the Lord has blessed us with and will find comfort within them in time.  Thank you, Aubrey, for all that you taught us along the way and may peace be yours now as we wait patiently to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Aubrey include,

his loving wife of 63 years,
Mary Grahn, East Dubuque, IL;

his two sons,
Greg (Jill) Grahn, Twinsburg, OH,
and Ronald Grahn, East Dubuque, IL;

his grandchildren,
Jake Grahn, Matt Grahn, and Hazel Grahn;

his sister,
Cheryl (Dean) Bergland, Wild Rose, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Aubrey was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Larry (Gloria) Grahn, Wayne (Barbara) Grahn, Reuben (Mary) Grahn, Darlene Pick, and Christen Grahn.

Aubrey’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Your sincere care and concern has truly helped to bring a little peace to our hearts and minds during this difficult time.

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

Rachel A. Paysen

Rachel Ann (McCloy) Paysen of Dewitt, Iowa passed away on May 21st at 80 years old.  She was born in Maquoketa, Iowa on April 22, 1943 to William Sr and Bernice McCloy.

As a child, Rachel went to school in a one room schoolhouse.  She was one of 9 children and grew up in the Iron Hill area.

She married Delbert Paysen on October 2, 1959.  She was a mother to 5 children, and worked as a Healthcare worker for many years.

Rachel loved traveling, dancing, shopping, and enjoyed a good meal, especially Red Lobster.  Some of the places she traveled to were Hawaii, Bahamas, Cancun, Florida, Las Vegas, and Colorado.  She also loved country music.  She especially loved her flowers and spent a lot of time tending to them.

She is survived by her brother, Larry (Liz) McCloy; her five children, Gary (Janet) Paysen, Peggy (Bob) Paysen-Nightingale, Rodney (Deb) Paysen, William (Billy) Paysen, and Melissa (Mike) Paysen as well as her grandchildren – Adam, Kelsey, Kaitlin, Nicole, Clay Jr., Corey, Destiny, Spencer, Justin, Kristin, Brooke, and Tayla; several great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, 7 of her brothers and sisters, and her two granddaughters April and Brooke.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, May 26, 2023, at Ozark Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.  A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, May 25, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rachel A. Paysen memorial fund has been established.

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

Adela E. Giesemann

Adela Elizabeth (Hueneke) Giesemann, age 94, completed her earthly journey on May 18th 2023, with family by her side.

Adela was born on the family farm in LaMotte, IA on August 19th 1928, the daughter of Alfred and Amanda (Reeg) Hueneke. After being friends since childhood, George Giesemann proposed to Adela at the stock car races in Maquoketa (quite romantic, way to go Dad.)  Apparently she said Yes and they were united in marriage on October 2, 1951, at St John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus.

Together they raised their children and farmed in Jackson County. She was a humble, faith filled lady and a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church all her life.  Being that she was a very talented seamstress, Adela helped create many beautiful blankets for the church and her family.  Each grandchild received their own handmade quilt.  Losing her mother at 18 months of age, she learned the value of caring for others and how to become a fantastic cook at a very young age.

Adela’s legacy of love and grace lives on through her five children, William & Sherry Giesemann,  and their children Jeremy (Kelly) Giesemann, and Emily (David) Van Wyke; James & Karen Giesemann and their children  Karissa (Jeff) Kelleher, Josh (Kristi) Giesemann, and Jordan (Megan) Giesemann; John & Mary Giesemann, and their children Andrew (Nickayla) Giesemann, Ryan (Morgan) Giesemann, and Nicholas (Hanna) Giesemann,:Ruth Giesemann & Ray Giesemann. Great grandchildren, Lillian Van Wyke. Alidia Nicholson, Kyrah Pfohl, Knox Giesemann. Logan, Hallie, Ella & Ayden Kelleher. Jamison and Kinzie Giesemann. Mac Giesemann. Greyden, Eldon & Adela Giesemann. Emerson & Jack Giesemann. And two more on the way; & a Sister-in-law, Verrena Dagitz.

She was welcomed into heaven by her husband of 59 years, George; an infant son, Thomas; her parents; a brother, Paul (Joy) Hueneke; a sister Mary (Virgil) Giesemann, Kenneth and Thelma Giesemann, Melvin Dagitz, Ken Stein.

Friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 Monday, May 22nd at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. Visitation will continue after 9:00 AM Tuesday and a celebration of Adela’s life will be held at 10:30 Tuesday.  Burial to follow in church cemetery next to the man she loved.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established. The family would like to express gratitude for the care given to our “caretaker” to Dr. Konz and nurse Sherry, Hospice of Dubuque especially Julie, and the staff and Luther Manor. We love you, Mom.

Raymond Stanfley

Raymond “Wayne” Stanfley, 96, of Dubuque, died Sunday, May 21, 2023, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Per Wayne’s wishes there will be no formal services. There will be a Celebration of Life held at a later date.

Wayne was born December 4, 1926, in Boyd, WI, the son of Raymond and Charlotte (Mott) Stanfley. On October 20, 1979, he married Judy Biba at The Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.

Wayne served in the United States Army from 1950 until 1952 as a Mess Sgt. Wayne worked for some time as a farmer. He later worked as a Maintenance Supervisor at John Deere for 22 years and later in maintenance at Mt. Carmel for 20 years where he then retired. After retiring he enjoyed spending time volunteering at the YMCA Y-Camp. Wayne was a true handyman, he could fix anything.Wayne enjoyed walking outside and at the mall. He also enjoyed making popcorn at the Dubuque County Fair.Wayne was a 32nd Degree Mason and was very active in the Shrine, Grotto, Knights Templar, York Rite, Dubuque Lodge #3, and Eastern Star. For many years he served as an adult advisor to Allen Chapter of DeMolay and was a Rainbow Dad for the Bellevue-Dubuque Chapter of Rainbow Girls.

Survivors include his wife, Judy Stanfley of Dubuque; three children, Randy (Debbie) Stanfley of Lancaster, WI; Rhonda (John) Dean of Escondido, CA; and Terin (Damian) Limoges of Clive, IA; three grandchildren, Dillon Dean and Derek (Julie) Dean, and Payten Limoges; two great-grandchildren, Ellie and Riley Dean; brother, Jerry Stanfley of Lancaster, WI; sister, Doris (Milt) Keeney of Hudson, WI; two sisters-in-law, Julie (Bill) Chitwood of Boscobel, WI and Patsy McKenzie of Madison, WI; and nieces and nephews, Chuck, Chris, Cathy, Cindy, Vernon, Jeff, Melissa, Jessica, and Molly.

He was preceded in death by his parents; mother of Randy and Rhonda, Shirley Stanfley; brother, Lyle (Doris) Stanfley; three sisters in infancy, Margie, Joyce, and Donna; and two nephews, Steve Stanfley and Dave Keeney.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Martha and Roger Driscoll, neighbors, Dick and Sharon, Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff at Luther Manor for all of their compassionate care.

Memorials may be made to the Kaaba Shriners, 511 Veterans Memorial Pkwy, Davenport, IA 52807.

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

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

William J. Busch

William J. “Bill” Busch, 76, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin, died Saturday, May 20, 2023, at home.  Private family services will be held according to Bill’s wishes. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Bill was born on March 15, 1947, in Sinsinawa, Wisconsin, the son of George and Lucille (DeMuth) Busch.  Bill married Jolene “Cookie” Kunkel on April 23, 1966, at Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler, Wisconsin, and recently celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary.

Bill worked at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works for 43 1/2 years where he made lifelong friends.  He was a member of UAW Local 94 since 1965.  Bill enjoyed golf, the Packers, the Brewers and special times fishing in Minnesota.  His favorite time was when his family was all together.  He loved his children and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Jolene “Cookie”; their children, Amy (Pat) Schaal, and Jeff (Roxy) Busch, both of Dickeyville, WI, Ben (Kirk Nichols) Busch, Blue Mounds, WI and Billy (Katie) Busch, Appleton, WI; eight grandchildren, Kayla, Courtney and Will Busch, Nicholas and Kate Schaal, and Carson, Sophia and Eva Busch; his brothers, Merlin (Janilda) Busch and  Danny (Joyce) Busch, both of Dickeyville, WI and Dale (Deb) Busch, Hazel Green, WI; his sisters, Doris (Earl) Jansen and Janet (Tom) Timmerman, both of Cuba City, WI, Mary Kay (Gary) McCartney and Jean (Bob) Vogt, both of Hazel Green, WI, Karen (Ron) Larson, East Dubuque, IL and Patty (Brett) Clark, Fennimore, WI; and his in-laws, Marlene  (George) Schuster, Kieler, WI, Patsy (Bob) Tigges, Key West, IA, Judy (Don) Takes, Sinsinawa, WI, Ed (Pat) Kunkel, Cuba City, WI; Randy (Kim) Kunkel, Dubuque, IA; and Jean Kunkel and Harry Kruser, both of Kieler, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Lucille (DeMuth) Busch; parents-in-law, Martin and Mildred (Lenstra) Kunkel; a granddaughter, Jolene Schaal; a sister, Sr. Ann Busch; and his in-laws, Earl and Nancy Kunkel, Roger Budden, Martin “Buster” Kunkel, JoAnne Kruser and Norma Kunkel.

 In lieu of flowers, a William J. “Bill” Busch Memorial fund has been established.  Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI  53807.

The family would like to thank Dr. Zach Droeszler and Agrace Hospice.

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