Obituaries Archive

Daniel J. Spurling

Daniel J. Spurling, 66, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at the UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory.

Daniel was born April 13, 1957, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Joseph Henry and Rita Jane C. Schmal Spurling.

Daniel served in the United States Marine Corps. He started his working career at the Dubuque Packing Company and FDL. He later worked in sales and product management for Hormel Foods in Austin, MN until his retirement in 2018.

Daniel loved his family, friends, and neighbors. He was a loving father, grandfather, son, and brother. He loved American muscle cars and hotrods, his German-Shepherd Saly, playing golf, watching football, and making homemade chicken noodle soup. He was fortunate enough to travel the world over his 20+ year career with Hormel. Daniel was the eldest of 7 brothers and sisters.

Survivors include his three children, Lindy Shamp, her husband Adam and their children, Riley, Logan and Lauren Shamp of Austin, MN; Ryan Spurling of Asbury; and Natalie Bauman, her husband Brent and their children, Hannah, Lewis, and Ellen Bauman of Chanhassen, MN. His siblings, Peggy Spurling of Dubuque, Dr. Gordon (Shannon) Spurling of Ventura, CA, Penny Spurling of Dubuque,  Dr. John (Penny) Spurling of Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Todd (Jane) Spurling of Dubuque, Dr. Wade (Avo) Spurling of Ventura, CA and his former wife, Barbara Spurling.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents.

A special thank you to Maria S., UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital, his neighbors, and Dubuque Fire and Ambulance.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Dan’s name to the Dubuque County Humane Society.

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

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

Zona G. Levins

Zona G. Levins, 92 of Dubuque IA formerly of East Dubuque IL was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on April 25, 2023.  To honor Zona’s wishes no services will be held and a private burial at the East Dubuque Cemetery will occur on a later date.

Zona was born on August 31, 1930 in Beetown, WI.  She married Delbert J. Levins on September 15, 1947.  He passed away on January 22, 2003.  Faith, prayer, and family were at the center of her life.

Zona will be deeply missed by her children, Diane Lancaster, Marseilles, IL; and Brett (Tammy) Levins, Lawrenceville, GA along with many grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Zona is survived by her siblings; Two sisters Zena Gratton, Lancaster WI; Vernetta Siepple, Lancaster, WI.  One brother George (Dianne) Jamison, Davenport IA.

Zona was preceded in death by her husband, Delbert Levins; a daughter Sandra Murphy; two sons Michael Levins and Randy Levins.

The family would like to Thank the Pavilion of Ottawa and the Hospice Staff for her wonderful care.

Joseph L. Kutsch

Joseph Lawrence Kutsch, 88, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, May 10, 2023, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque.

Private Visitation will be held Monday, May 15, 2023, at Hoffman Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The private Funeral Service for Joe will be Monday, May 15, 2023, at the funeral home, with Father Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.  Military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. Joe was counting down the days to be 89, and is now with the Lord on his first Birthday in Heaven.

Joe was born May 15, 1934, in Dubuque, the son of Raymond and Louise Kraus Kutsch.  On October 14, 1957, he married Mary Clare Cowan.  She preceded him in death on April 15, 2016.

Joe graduated from the former Loras Academy, Dubuque.  He served in the United States Navy where he was stationed on the USS Currituck out of Norfolk, Virginia during the Korean War.  After his military service, Joe worked diligently as a self-employed floor covering contractor all over the Tri-States for more than 40 years.  He was a very kind, wise and compassionate husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

He was a member of St. Raphael Cathedral Parish, and an Exalted Ruler of the Elks Club #297.  Joe enjoyed every moment he was able to get a line wet fishing, especially when he was on his boat at Lake Galena. He loved daily crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles.

Survivors include his children, Karen (Dale) Kleinschrodt of Clinton, IA, Laura Kutsch of Dubuque, Julie (Howard) Bowman of Dubuque, three grandchildren, Dan (Holly) Kleinschrodt, Ashley (Jason) Anderson, Ben Burke, step-granddaughters, Katelynn Reiter, Jenna Bowman; three great-grandchildren, Colin, Madeline, and Bennett; step-great grandchildren, Javari Cossum, Sienna Reiter; six siblings, Ken (Donna) Kutsch, Ron Kutsch, Norb (Linda) Kutsch, Lenny (Tyra) Kutsch, Ginny Hurlburt, and Linda Klinkhammer, all of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Mary, daughter, Kellie Jo, father-in-law James Cowan and  mother-in-law Genevieve Cowan, two sisters-in-law, Leah and Janice, and brothers-in-laws, Art and Ed.

A special thank you to Mercy One, In-Home Care Connections, Stonehill Care Center, Enoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care.

A memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Mary K. Shaffer

Mary K. Shaffer, 87, of Dubuque, passed away on May 10th, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque. According to her wishes, no services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, located at 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family during this time.

Mary was born on January 24, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Martin and Louise (Brun) Cahill. She attended Dubuque Senior High School and graduated in 1954. In November of 1956, she married Ralph Hannan, who preceded her in death. On July 5, 2008, Mary married Jim Shaffer in Dubuque.

Mary worked as a cashier at Randall’s Foodarama for 19 years. Afterward, she joined Barnstead Thermolyne and worked there for another 10 years. In her free time, she enjoyed playing euchre and had a fondness for shopping and setting up at flea markets. Mary and her husband Jim shared a love for gambling and enjoyed doing it together.

She is survived by her children: Mike Hannan, Tom Hannan, Sue (Dennis) Greenwood, Bill Hannan, and John Hannan. Mary also leaves behind ten grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Bonnie Barrientine and Nancy Cahill, as well as her brother Mike Cahill.

The family wishes to thank Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Runde and Dr Brock for all their wonderful care and compassion they showed to Mary.

Murlene L. Hinrichs Clayberg

Murlene Lena (Fecht) Hinrichs Clayberg, 93, died Tuesday, May 9, 2023 at the Grand Meadows campus of Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

Murlene was born on September 9, 1929 in Carthage, Illinois to Amos and Lena (Ufkes) Fecht. She attended Carthage High School and Carthage College, both in Carthage, Illinois. She married Robert “Jack” Hinrichs in 1950. They had two sons, Michael and Mark.

After Jack’s death, Murlene remarried to Daniel Clayberg of Cuba, Illinois. Murlene was a talented lady who was very involved in the Cuba community. She was employed at Alexander Lumber Company, the State Bank of Cuba, and Gem City Savings over her career. She was a long-time member of the Cuba United Methodist Church where she served in many capacities, most notably as organist for services, weddings, and funerals, and as a member of United Methodist Women. She was a 53 year member of PEO Chapter CB in Cuba. Murlene was a beautifully talented seamstress in her younger years, and kept up her abilities with quilting; producing lovely quilts for herself and family and also others through the quilters’ group at the Methodist church and the quilt guild in Canton. She expressed her other talents through china painting, gardening, canning, and preparing amazing meals. Murlene was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She lavished us all with her generosity, love and attention. She was always there with homemade goodies, a hug, and her beautiful smile. We were blessed to have her and will miss her always.

Murlene is survived by her son, Mark (Stacie) Hinrichs of Asbury, Iowa; step-daughter Mary (Ron) Kruzan, of Cuba, Illinois; granddaughters Janet (Nelson) Correa, of Canton, Illinois, Allison (Timothy) Peet of Pleasant Hill, Iowa, Margaret (Adam) Kuchan of Morton, Illinois; grandson Robert (Robin) Hinrichs of Marion, Iowa; great-granddaughters Makalynne Correa, Evelyn Peet, Bennett Hinrichs, and Zia Kuchan; great-grandsons Malakai Correa, Cameron Peet, and Brooks Hinrichs. Nephews Paul (Myra) DeLong, Richard (Barb) Jurgens, Robert Jurgens, William (Penny) Hinrichs, Gary (Terry) Park, and David (Judy) Walker; nieces Linda Hinrichs, Cindy (Steve) Lubbert and Brenda Rodenburg.

Murlene was pre-deceased by her husband Jack Hinrichs, husband Danny Clayberg, son Michael, sister Esther Walker, and brother-in-law Chuck Walker.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, May 20th, 2023, at the Cuba United Methodist Church, Cuba Illinois. Murlene’s family will greet family and friends at 10:00 AM with a funeral service following at 11:00 AM. Burial will be at the Cuba cemetery.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the Cuba United Methodist Church, Hospice of Dubuque, or a charity of your choice.

Dr. James W. White

Dr. James W. White, 90, of Dubuque, passed on from this world on Wednesday, May 10, 2023.

The Mass of Christian Burial for James will be 10:00 am Saturday, May 13, 2023, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.  Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

Visitation will begin at 3:00 pm followed by a prayer service at 6:30 pm on Friday, May 12, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

He lived a long life of adventure and discovery. James was born on a farm in Worthington Iowa. He was the second of seven children to Albert and Rose Ressler White. The oldest to survive childhood, losing his older brother to a childhood illness. He told us that when he was considering a career that he only saw three options: becoming a priest, farming or pursuing a career as a physician. He chose a career as a medical doctor.

His pursuit to become a physician led him to leave the Midwest. He traveled to New Orleans for his internship year. There he met Pauline Riley- his first wife. With her he had four children that were born in four different states. Son, Jim and wife Connie Nemmers of Dubuque, IA (Robert (Lauren) White, Scott (Brittany) White and Judd White); daughter, Pauline and husband Pat Carr (Katie Carr, Ben (Kaitlin) Carr and Will Carr); son Greg and wife Tammy Powell (Max White, Jake (Mary) White and Caroline White); daughter, Catherine and husband Jim Mandler (Nick Mandler, Abbie Mandler and Allison Mandler) and four great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Jack, John, and Alexander.

His medical education was interrupted by the Vietnam war. He was able to complete his medical training through the Berry Plan- a government program that deferred his active duty commitment to complete his medical training. The pursuit of his medical training led him to New Orleans, then to Whiteman Airforce Base in Missouri and finishing in Washington DC. There he completed his training. He searched for a practice near where he grew up. He contacted Dr Thomas Benda and moved to Dubuque to start his practice and formed Dubuque ENT.

James’ private practice and raising 4 children then consumed the bulk of his life. He contributed much to the medical community. He served on the hospital boards of the local hospitals. He was a president of the Iowa Medical Society. He hosted a meeting of the International Rhinologic Society where physicians from all over the world traveled to Dubuque. As a father he took his family on a summer vacation every year. They traveled throughout the US. and each summer would spend one weekend tent camping on the Mississippi River.

James had many recreational pursuits. He was an avid hunter and fisher. He loved golf and the friendly competition. He felt that golfing with someone told you much about a person. He did not believe in gimmies. No putt was too short to miss. With James he was very fair but you had to earn it. He treated all people the same way. He would say with people trust but verify.

James was a strong supporter of the Catholic Church. He supported the church any way that he could. He put all four of his children through catholic primary and secondary school. He was a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre. He traveled with a group to the Greek islands to follow in the footsteps of St. Paul.

After James retired from medicine he returned to his roots of farming. He acquired farm land and spent the rest of his days farming. He was more difficult to reach after retirement as he was out on the land planting trees and improving the land he purchased. Many of his grandchildren were employed on these properties. There they were a captive audience for his philosophical musings on religion and politics.

James believed that you should live your life full until you die. After his first wife died he met and married Lois Taylor. He had much more life to share and live. With Lois he found a compatriot in his continuing journey. They enjoyed traveling together and supporting many similar political causes. She was a loving and supportive life companion and was with him till the end when he was called from this world.

Also surviving are James’ stepdaughters, Krista Thier and Tina Taylor; five step-grandchildren, Brent, Olivia, and T.J. Thier, and Victor and Valery Meyer; two brothers, Lloyd White and Albert (Diane) White; one sister, Mary Ann (Jim) Weber; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife Polly, he was preceded in death by his parents, and three brothers, Daniel, David, and Stephen.

James often said that you should live your life to the fullest. He certainly did. He also said that you could rest when you died. It is his time to rest now and he will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church and Holy Family Catholic Schools.

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

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

Donald E. Hord

Donald E. “Don” Hord, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 11, 2023, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Don’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Lutheran Cemetery in Warsaw, IL, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Don’s family.

Don was born on December 7, 1936, in Leola, S.D., a son to John W. and Maude E. (Witt) Hord.  His family eventually moved to Warsaw, IL, where Don spent his formative years developing his traits which he would carry into adulthood, and was united in marriage to his beautiful bride, Shirley J. Fiedler, on June 14, 1969, after returning home from honorably serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1955-1963.  They were blessed with three children of their own and were proud to raise them in Dubuque where Don worked as a crane operator with Lunda Construction until he finally retired in 1995.  He continually found great satisfaction throughout his years as he was able to visibly reflect on many of the projects he was a part of, including his work on the flood wall, the Wisconsin bridge, and Hempstead High School just to name a few.  Don had a great sense of humor and always had a one liner at the ready just in case a perfect moment arose which required his input.  Don was an avid coin collector and always enjoyed attending a St. Louis Cardinals game with his family and friends.  His love for life came in second only to his love and devotion to his family.  We will miss Don’s love and light in our daily lives moving forward and are forever grateful for the years the Lord was kind enough to share him with us.  May the abundance of wonderful memories help to heal our broken hearts which we possess today and may Don now enjoy the long-awaited eternal peace with his Savior until we all meet again.  Thank you, Don, for being the prime example of the husband, father and grandfather we all strive to know in this life and for never allowing any doubt to get a foothold in the minds of those you adored that your love was real and true until the very end.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Don include,

his loving wife of 53 years,
Shirley J. Hord, Dubuque, IA;

his three children,
Jim (Laura) Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Michelle (Patrick) Hughes, North Liberty, IA,
and Jody (Craig) Charbonnet, Marietta, GA;

his four grandchildren,
Curt Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Dylan Hord, Dubuque, IA,
Jack Hughes, North Liberty, IA,
and Charlotte Charbonnet, Marietta, GA;

his brother,
Bill (Marjorie) Hord, Santa Maria, CA;

his sister-in-law,
Ada Hord, Phoenix, AZ;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James Hord; and his sister, Patricia (Claire) Smith.

Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Your sincere and gentle kindness has truly helped to make these very difficult days just a little easier to navigate.

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

Darrell L. Cain

Darrell Lee Cain, 86, of Elwood, Iowa, died on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Select Specialty Hospital in Davenport, Iowa.

Darrell was born on September 4, 1936 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Roy and Ruth (Geronzin) Cain.  He was a graduate of Elwood High School, attended Iowa State University for one year, and served his country in the U.S. Army with the Army Military Police in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, earning on honorable discharge.  He married Lola Mae Lubben on Easter Sunday, April 17, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  They had four children, Deane Leroy, Jodi Sue, Carmen Lynne, and Dale Thomas.

Darrell was a lifelong farmer in the Elwood area and in earlier years had worked the night shift at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for a short time.  He had a passion for tinkering and rarely met a machine he couldn’t repair.

Darrell was the friend and neighbor who was always there with whatever was needed and he donated his time and resources to many organizations.  Some of the organizations that benefited from his involvement included serving as a director of Farm Credit Services for 33 years, the National Farm Credit Council for 8 years, Lost Nation Consumer Coop Director, Lost Nation Fire Board, Clinton County Pork Producer’s, and the Clinton County Cattlemen’s Association. He served on the Elwood Cemetery Association and had been the cemetery sexton for many years. He also was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church where he had served as a council chairman and trustee, and a member of the Lost Nation Masonic Lodge and later the Zealous Masonic Lodge #435 of Oxford Junction, and the Clinton Scottish Rite.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Lola Cain of Elwood, IA; children Jodi (Kent) Pulfer of Wayne, NE, Carmen (Mark) Gerlach of Delmar, IA, and Dale (Marcy) Cain of Delmar, IA; 9 grandchildren, Nicole Gerlach, Jacob (Falon) Pulfer, Andrew Pulfer, Wade (Sadie) Gerlach, Luke Pulfer, Marta Pulfer, Roy Gerlach, Lee Cain, and Caleb Cain; 3 great-granddaughters, Hayden, Ella, and Lola; sister Linda Block of Delmar, IA; and in-laws, Nadine Lubben of Maquoketa, IA, John Schumann of Tulsa, OK, and Carol Cain of DeWitt, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Deane Leroy Cain, brother Don Cain, and in-laws, Lois Schumann, Harold Lubben, and Dick Block.

A celebration of Darrell’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Elwood United Methodist Church.  A memorial visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, May 15, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa, where a 6:30 P.M. Masonic Service will be held.  Burial will be at the Elwood, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the family for a future designation.

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

Kathyrn A. Leibold

Kathryn Ann “Kat” Leibold, age 65 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on May 6, 2023, at home.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at the Word of Life Church, 4550 Dodge St., Dubuque, IA, followed by a prayer service at the church. Entombment will take place at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family with arrangements.

Kat was born on July 24, 1957, the daughter of Melvin M. and Virginia Mae (Smith) Leibold. She grew up in Dubuque, Iowa and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1975. She went on to complete her education at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, the University of Wisconsin, Madison, obtained her Associates Degree at Marycrest University, Davenport, and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at Western Illinois University.

She was committed to her career path and would devote over 25 years of her life to helping others who found themselves in difficult places in life. She was a strong advocate for anyone in need, especially those struggling with addiction and/or mental illness. Kat worked as an Advanced Certified Addiction Counselor, a Domestic Violence Counselor, a Batterer’s Education Facilitator, worked at Hillcrest Family Services, and Connections Recovery and Support Facilitator for NAMI Dubuque. She was also devoted to helping others in her free time. Kat volunteered countless hours with her friends at the Veteran’s Freedom Center, was a longtime member of NAMI, and enjoyed joining her breast friends (Breast Cancer Survivor’s Team) to participate in Dragonboat racing each year.

Fun in the sun, reading, or playing Cribbage were always on Kat’s to do list, but she could often be found searching for hidden treasures at a flea market or local auction. Kat’s father taught her how to play Euchre and sitting down at the card table was a regular activity whenever the opportunity arose. Kat was a kind and gentle soul who also had to bear the burden of mental illness which she had helped so many others with throughout her journey. Unfortunately, for many folks, this is how they knew her. Mental illness is a nefarious disease which cloaks the real person inside with an identity that confuses the viewer. This longtime battle is finally over for Kat, as she now finds peace from the pain, and has been released from the broken mortal shell she was confined within to finally experience the perfection waiting for her in the arms of her loving Lord and Savior. We will surely miss Kat more than she could ever know and we are forever grateful for all the love, sacrifice, and commitment to others she shared along the way. Thank you, for simply being you and may the generosity you shared with this world be given back to you 10-fold in the next.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kat include, her siblings, Tom (Zelda) Leibold, Davenport, IA, Terry (Joan) Leibold, Dubuque, IA, Krista Beidler, Rockford, IL, Karla Durgin, San Angelo, TX, sister-in law Laurie Leibold, Dubuque, IA; her nieces and nephews, Brian (Tiffany) Leibold, Keith (Samantha) Leibold, Jeffrey (Tracy) Leibold, Amy Leibold, Amanda (Eric) Canada, Andrew (Jordan) Healey; her 8 great-nieces and nephews; along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors; and her faithful feline companion, Bandit.

Kat was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Tim Leibold; and her brothers-in-law, Bill Beidler and David Durgin.

The family would like to thank the many doctors and nurses for the care they have provided Kat throughout the years. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Kat’s name to NAMI Dubuque, 225 W. 6th St., Dubuque, IA or a donation to your favorite charity.

Carol-Ann Medina

Carol-Ann Medina, 78, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Jacksonville, FL, died Monday, May 8, 2023, at Ahva Living of East Dubuque.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Carol-Ann was born July 5, 1944, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Jack and Roberta Burton McLean. On June 16, 1962, she married James Medina in Park Forest, IL.  He preceded her in death on December 7, 2020.

Carol-Ann received her Bachelor’s Degree in 1981 from the University of North Florida and taught elementary school for many years. She went on to earn her Master’s Degree in Education also from the University of North Florida in 1994 and retired as a guidance counselor. Upon retirement, she spent many years doing puppet shows and reading books to children in inner city neighborhoods. Carol-Ann really had a love for teaching and helping children. She was also a published author and dabbled in painting and drawing. Carol-Ann enjoyed playing the piano for school plays and later entertaining others at the retirement community where she lived. She adored her cat, Murphy, and she had loved her many cats over the years.

Survivors include her three children, Kristin (Roberta Tyler) Smith of Dubuque; David (Beth) Medina of Saint Johns, FL; and Carrie Turner of Christiansburg, VA; grandchildren, Harlan Smith and Hunter Smith of Dubuque; James Bohnke of Floyd, VA; Emily Turner of Christiansburg, VA; and Nicholas Medina and Christopher Medina of Saint Johns, FL; and one brother, James (Kathleen) McLean of the Marshall Islands.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque, especially East Team, Diane, Adrienne, Chris, Karen, Paul, Amy, and Morgan, for their loving care and compassion.

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

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

John E. Kluesner

John E. Kluesner, 69, passed away peacefully on May 8, 2023.  A lifelong farmer in Iowa, he was dedicated to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Cindy (Loeffelholz Silva) Kluesner of 23 years; four daughters: Jennifer (Ryne) Strum, Jaclyn (Scott Wootton) Kluesner Peyton, Jamee (Nate) Kramer, and Justine (Marc) Benavidez; three step-sons: Peter (Angela) Silva, Kyle (Jenni) Silva, and Mitchell Silva; six cherished grandchildren: Clark and Isla Strum, Jack and Juliana Peyton, Henry and Abigail Kramer; mother, Mary Jane Kluesner; siblings: Richard (Ann) Kluesner, Julie (Tom) Vonderhaar, Barbara (Tom) Campbell, and Steve Kluesner; parents-in-law, Edwin and Jo Ann Loeffelholz; and in-laws: Sue Kluesner, Alan (Margi) Loeffelholz, Mike (Donna) Loeffelholz, Dan (Deb) Loeffelholz, Karl (Kim) Loeffelholz, and Jeff (Mary) Loeffelholz.

He is preceded in death by his father, Francis Kluesner, brother, Joe Kluesner, and several aunts and uncles.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 14, 2023, 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Kramer Funeral Home, Dyersville, Iowa, continuing Monday, May 15, 2023 at St. John’s Catholic Church, Delhi, Iowa, from 9:30  – 10:45 a.m.  Funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. with burial to take place at St. John’s Catholic Cemetery Delhi, Iowa.  Rev. Gabriel Anderson will officiate.

The family extends a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman, Oncology (MercyOne Dubuque), Dr. Natalie Callendar, Multiple Myeloma Oncology Specialist (UW Madison), and to their staff for the compassionate care and support over the past nine years. Thank you also to St. Croix Hospice Care, as well as our family and friends for your continued support.

Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

John’s memory will live on as a testament to a life well-lived and the values he held dear.

Willard D. Edwards

Willard Dale Edwards, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

Willard Dale Edwards was born on July 29, 1944 in Whiteside County, Illinois, to Sanford Tony and Ethel Marion (Chase) Edwards.  He married Rosalie Rockwell on May 15, 1970 in Mt. Carroll, Illinois.

Willard worked construction for his father-in-law for 30 years.  He also delivered pharmaceuticals for five years for the Rockford Company, and worked at National Sleep Products, and for 10 years at DAC, Inc.

Willard loved his family first and foremost, mushroom hunting, fishing, and metal detecting.  He especially loved feeding his birds.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Rosalie Edwards of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Sandy (Barb) Edwards of Charlotte, IA, Joan Manning of Maquoketa, IA, Nellie (Dave Bean) Clark of Maquoketa, IA, and Linda Said of Maquoketa, IA; sisters-in-law, Barbara Edwards of Maquoketa, IA, Mary Horan of Maquoketa, IA, and Carol Bowen of Cedar Rapids, IA; and many nieces and nephews that he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings Jane Manning, Nancy Mortenson, and Walter Edwards.

Visitation will be held from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A public graveside service and burial celebrating Willard’s life will follow at 1:30 P.M., Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Willard Dale Edwards memorial fund has been established.

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

Judy K. Pottebaum

Judy Kay Pottebaum, 66, of Dubuque, Iowa entered into the Kingdom of Heaven on May 6, 2023, at MercyOne Hospital Dubuque after a lengthy illness.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., Dubuque, IA.

She was born in Dubuque, Iowa to Anita Elizabeth (Soppe) Gibbons and James Joseph Gibbons Sr. on August 12, 1956. Judy attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School through 8th grade followed by Dubuque Senior High School and earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Northeast Iowa Community College.

She married the love of her life, Steven Edward Pottebaum, on August 21, 1976, at Gale Blum’s Justice of the Peace in Asbury, Iowa. From that union they had two children, Paige June in 1983 and Mitchell Edward in 1988. Prior to going back to school for her Associate Degree, she worked in many restaurants as a waitress though the years and in sales at Leath Furniture. She retired from Project Concern working with Foster Grandparents and the RTA. After that she was fortunate enough to care for grandchildren.

Judy was a kind, generous, caring soul who thought of everyone else before herself. She loved gardening and canning, restoring furniture, sewing, making jewelry, and listening to and playing music, having taught herself to play the guitar. Mom was a lover of animals and enjoyed walking her dogs to the dog park along with her grandchildren when the weather was nice. She had the best sense of humor and a laugh you couldn’t forget.

Mom was very proud of her Irish heritage and shared that with her children and grandchildren, of whom she was also very proud. She was the best mom, wife, grandma, sister, and friend; she will be missed dearly by all who had the joy of knowing her. My mom was one of the strongest people I have ever known, and I hope I am an ounce of the woman she was.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 46 years, Steven, sister Sandra (Denny) Deming of Idaho, sister Carol Gibbons of Dubuque, sisters-in-law Julie Edwards and Lisa (Roland) Wagner of Blue Grass, sister-in-law Carla Gibbons, her daughter Paige Ortiz (significant other Eric Zalaznik), son Mitchell Pottebaum, honorary son Leo Ortiz, grandchildren: Lisette, Jakob, and Jimmy, step-grandchildren: Ava Zalaznik, Julia Zalaznik, and Clara Zalaznik, several nieces, life-long friend Jane Howe, and last but not least–her beloved dog, Mooch.

Those who greeted her in Heaven include: her parents Anita and James Gibbons, her mother and father-in-law Darlene (Boots) and Edward Pottebaum, brothers Dale and James Gibbons Jr., nephew Ron Joseph Wagner, and her dogs: Molly, Maggie, Betsie, Sadie, Spanky, Ming and her cat Buster.

Memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home.

The family would like to thank Dr. Nachtman, Dr. Khan, Dr. Loc, Dubuque Fire EMS, and the staff of MercyOne Hospital (especially the ER) for the wonderful care they provided her (and us) on her final day and throughout the last few years.

Dr. Josef Kubicek

Dr. Josef “Joe” Kubicek, DVM, 79 ½, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on Friday, May 5, 2023 in Postville, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 10:15 a.m. on Friday, May 12, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque. The mass of Christian burial for Joe will be held at 10:30 am on Friday, May 12, 2023 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Joe was born October 30, 1943 in Sopotnice 60, Czechoslovakia. On September 28, 1968, he married Ludmila Matějková in Ústí nad Orlicí, Czechoslovakia, now known as Czech Republic. Joe was a practicing veterinarian in Czechoslovakia and escaped with his family from communism in 1980. Their family received political asylum to come to the US in 1981 and settled in El Dorado, Kansas. Joe renewed his master’s degree at Kansas State University and was employed as a Meat Inspector for the USDA in Dubuque and then Postville, Iowa. Joe enjoyed the outdoors, traveling, and reading about history, science and autobiographies. His amazing memory lent to making him a stimulating storyteller.

Survivors include his wife, Ludmila Kubicek of Dubuque; five children, Alena (Michael) Britten of Crystal Lake, Il; Libor (Lesley) Kubicek of Manassas, VA; Ales Kubicek of Madison, WI; Jolana Kubicek of Niedermohr, Germany; and Robert (Eva Kirstenova) Kubicek of Colorado Springs, CO; grandchildren Kiley (Ruadhan), Dorian, Viktor, Julian, Rebeka and a great-grandchild due in July; his sister Helena (Josef)  Plíhal of Sopotnice, Czech Republic; and several nieces and nephews in Czech Republic. As the oldest sibling, he was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Joyce F. Potter

Joyce F. Potter, 89, of Eagle Point Place, Dubuque, formerly of Dyersville, IA, passed away Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be Wednesday May 10, 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.  A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Thursday, May 11_, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Scott Meador officiating.  Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.  The burial will be at Dubuque Memorial Gardens. A live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Joyce was born February 6, 1934, in Geneva, IA to Walter E. Bergmann and Gladys B. Muhlenbruck.  She attended Morningside College in Sioux City, IA and Elmhurst College in Elmhurst, IL.  She married Richard C. Potter on January 14, 1961, in Indianola, IA.  Her main occupation was a homemaker.  She also worked at Stone Creek One Stop and Evers Toy Store in Dyersville.  She was a member of the Rebekah Lodge.

Mom enjoyed spending time with her family, especially the little ones, as well as traveling, quilting, crocheting, knitting, sewing, other crafts, and puzzles.

Survivors include her children David (Diana) Potter, Monterey, CA; Scott (Jenny) Potter, New Haven, MO; Laurie (Matt) Urban, Dubuque, IA; and Randy (Anne) Potter, Dyersville, IA; Grandchildren: Chelsea (Bill) Jakob; Justin Potter; Jessica (Marty) Krapfl; Elizabeth (Dustin) Boyette; Sam (Kenzie) Urban; Amanda (Justin) Adams; and Tim Potter.  Great-Grandchildren: Bethany, Mike, Dan, and Hannah Rankin; Leah Boyette; Katie and Tucker Urban; Daisy Adams; Bill Jr. (Emily) Jakob and Johnathon Jakob. Sister: Maxine Bots, Brother-in-law: Ed Hiller, Sister-in-law: Norma Vondra.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Richard, sister Lucille Hiller, brother-in-law Jim Bots, grandson Kroy Urban, brother Rolland Bergmann, in-laws Dan and Lois Potter and Don Vondra.

The family would like to thank her friends at Eagle Point Place, the staff at Mercy Hospital and Medical Associates Clinic, especially Dr. Kenneth Steffen, Julie Ehlinger, ARNP and Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care they gave to Joyce.