Obituaries Archive

Theresa M. Merkes

Theresa M. Merkes, 87, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, February 7, 2024, surrounded by family at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Friday, February 9, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection followed by visitation until 8:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Theresa will be 10:30 am Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Theresa was born November 1, 1936, in Worthington, IA, the daughter of Alfred and Malvina Bonert Offermann. On November 24, 1959, she married Aloysius “Al” Peter Merkes at St. Francis Basilica in Dyersville, IA. He passed away December 1, 2014.

Most of her life, she helped her husband on their farm. After retirement from farming, she worked at Burger King.

She was a long-time member of Church of the Resurrection. She was a great baker and her family loved her apple pie. She was always feeding people and everyone loved her treats. She loved to play Euchre, dancing, taking care of her cats, and spending time with her grandchildren. One day, shortly after Al passed away, a guinea fowl showed up at her home. They formed a special bond and “adopted” each other. She called him “Guinea”.

Survivors include six sons, Paul (Valerie Canby) Merkes of Peosta, IA, Mark (Terri) Merkes of Dubuque, Pat (Sandy) Merkes of Epworth, IA, Mike (Tammy) Merkes of Dubuque, Roger (Christina) Merkes of Holy Cross, IA, and Kevin (Cindy) Merkes of Dubuque; 28 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren; two sisters-in-law, Doris A. Offerman of New Vienna, IA, and Doris M. Offermann of Earlville, IA; and one brother-in-law, Joel Glennon of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Leon and Ernie Offermann, two sisters, Norma (William) Stevens and Lois (James) Jasper.

A memorial has been established.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque and especially the staff at Hawkeye Assisted Living Memory Care Unit for taking special care of Theresa.

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 Theresa’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Dorothy C. Vorwald

Dorothy C. Vorwald, 100, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Sunday, February 4, 2024, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 11, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home on Monday, February 12 from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Dorothy was born on January 17, 1924, in Worthington, Iowa, the daughter of Nicholas and Emma (Brunkan) Dunkel.  She married Francis Vorwald on November 5, 1947, in Dyersville.  Together they raised their family and farmed between Dyersville and Worthington until retirement in 1991.

Survivors include her children: Ron (Mary) Vorwald of Worthington, Jean (Don) Krapfl of New Vienna, Julie (Roger) Boge of Earlville, Mark (Linda) Vorwald of Worthington;10 grandchildren: Tim (Melanie) Krapfl, Kathy (Dean) Welter, Traci (Steve) Burlage, Becky (Jim) Mudd, Kristy (Kevin) Russ, Charles Vorwald, Jennifer (Arnie) Bruns, Samantha (John) Karels, Matthew (Megan)Vorwald and Valerie (Tim) Schaffer; 17 great grandchildren; in-laws: Marilyn Vorwald and Shirley Vorwald both of Colesburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Frannie in 2010, siblings: Nick (Joan) Dunkel, Eileen (Roy) Sperfslage, Helen Heims-Bonert, Ruth (Gerald) Stronck, Bernice Dunkel, Herbert (Diane) Dunkel, Bernard (Rosie) Dunkel, Rev. Henry Dunkel, Lavern (Marie) Dunkel and James (Lorraine) Dunkel; in-laws: Vince (Rosie) Vorwald, Robert (Germaine) Vorwald, Jerry Vorwald, Ramona (David) Engelken, Anna Mae Vorwald, Kathryn (Louis) Mescher, Mary (Ray) Berg.

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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Arlene R. Weirup

Arlene R. Weirup, 86, of Baldwin, Iowa, died on Tuesday morning, February 6, 2024, at Addington Place in Clinton, Iowa.

Arlene Renee Farris was born on July 2, 1937, in Austin, Minnesota, to Ollie Ray and Beatrice Maxine (Chase) Farris.  Arlene’s adventurous early years were spent exploring Minnesota, California, Colorado, and Wyoming before settling in Iowa. She married Alvin Weirup, and they resided on the farm near Baldwin, Iowa.    

Arlene was an impeccable accountant, had served as the postmaster of the Baldwin, Iowa Post Office, and had worked at WALMART in Maquoketa for several years. 

Arlene had been a member of the Merry Knitter’s Club and had served as the accountant and on the board of directors of the Jackson County Senior Citizen Center.

Those left to honor her memory include 7 children; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and a brother.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Alvin on April 16, 2020, 3 brothers and 1 sister.

A celebration of her life will held at 11:00 A.M., Monday, February 12, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, or any children’s charity.

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

Florence F. Puls

Florence F. Puls, age 99, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:05 p.m., on Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by her loving family. 

To honor Florence’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 3:45 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, February 12, 2024, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 Saint Joseph Street with Very Rev. Brian M. Dellaert officiating.  Burial will be in St. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.

Florence was born on January 19, 1925, in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Joseph J. and Clara (Frommelt) Behr. 

Florence attended grade school in Sherrill at St. Peter and Paul School and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy, Class of 1941.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Alfred Puls, on June 16, 1945, in Dubuque.  They raised their family and celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary together before Al passed away on January 30, 2016.  Florence was very devoted to her Catholic faith and was a long time member of St. Joseph the Worker Church where she helped out with whatever was needed.  She was very devoted to her family and for several years she took her father-in-law who lived at Bethany Home out to lunch regularly at Bishop’s Buffet.  After he passed away she continued to volunteer running the gift shop at Bethany Home and serving for 25 years with the service organization at Stonehill.  She was honored to received an award from the governor for her efforts. 

Al worked Bingo for the Lions Club in East Dubuque and Florence often accompanied him there playing 25 cards simultaneously.  Florence also enjoyed going to the Circle in East Dubuque where Al worked the door to listen to music and enjoy a beverage or two with friends.  Family was always her top priority.  Florence not only raised her own children, but took in extended family members.  She was a kind hearted woman and she truly loved caring for others.  This world has been blessed to have Florence for 99 years.  We will miss her greatly, but know that she is now resting peacefully.

Those left to cherish Florence’s memory include:

Her children, Roger (Cathy) Puls, Sandy, OR; Linda Sangston, Dubuque, IA; Thomas (Cathy) Puls, Dubuque, IA; Deb Puls, Dubuque, IA; Terry (Janet) Puls, Cummings, GA; John (Kathy) Puls, Davenport, IA; and Martin (Jennifer Haas) Puls, Lowell, AR;

Daughter-in-law, Pat Puls, Dubuque, IA

22 grandchildren, Jeff Puls, Amy (Morgan Viggers) Puls, Jason (Lena) Puls, Shannon (Joseph) Monroe, Thomas Sangston, Jimmy (Bernadette) Sangston, Mark (Marcie) Sangston, Debbie Sangston, Jennifer (Eric Lientz) Sangston, Christopher Sangston, Jonathan (Ludmila) Puls, Melissa (Robert) Scigliano, Nicholas Puls, Jennifer (David) Rhomberg, Sarah (Doug) Harris, Shelby (Bill) Bryce, Emma (Lucas Delort) Puls, Tyler (Lexi) Puls, Katie (Dillon Juillerat) Puls, Jared Puls, Connor (Chelsea Buechele) Puls and Lindsay (fiancé Daniel Rodriguez) Puls;

30 great-grandchildren, Amber Puls, Claire Monroe, William Monroe, Chase Puls, Kevin Sangston, Geoffrey Sangston, Amanda Sangston, Tasha (Danny) Davis, Levi Lientz, Luke Lientz, Logan Lientz, Marcus Borges, Larissa Puls, Samuel Scigliano, Liliana Scigliano, Jacob Scigliano, Clara Puls, Amelia Puls, Gabby Puls, Madeline (fiancé Daniel Shaw) Rhomberg, Rachel Rhomberg, Grace Rhomberg, Isabella Rhomberg, Carter Harris, Ava Harris, Mila Harris, Lyla Harris, Billy Bryce, Christian Bryce and Kais Juillerat;

One very treasured great-great-granddaughter, Kirra Davis

And her sister-in-law, Nancy Behr.

Florence was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alfred Puls; a son, Timothy Puls; a son-in-law, Charles Sangston; and her siblings, Irv (Lorraine) Behr, Millie (Norm) Spahn, Joseph J. Behr Jr., and Melvin Behr in infancy.

Florence’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kim, for the outstanding care they have provided for Florence.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Florence’s memory, which will be distributed among her favorite charities, and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Florence Puls Family.

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

Ronald L. Walton

Ronald L. “Ron” Walton, age 75, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:25 a.m., on Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Sunnycrest Manor. 

To honor Ron’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., on Friday, February 9, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 12:00 noon on Friday at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Stephanie Schlimm officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Ron was born on July 15, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert A. and Bessie Mae (White) Walton. 

Ron did piece work through Area Residential Care for several years.  He enjoyed collecting coins and always looked forward to visitors bringing him something new for his collection.  He loved attending family functions, with reunions at Eagle Point Park being one of his favorite activities.  Ron also liked to watch sports, especially enjoying the cheerleaders.  Ron had a gentle heart and a kind personality.  He enjoyed the simple things in life and brought a smile to the faces of all those around him.  We will all miss him.

Those left to cherish Ron’s memory include his brother, Thomas Walton, Dubuque, IA.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, George Walton, Richard Walton, Donald Walton, Anna Jane Brinsky, Janet Walton, Robert E. Walton and Ralph Walton.

Ron’s family would like to thank all of the wonderful staff at Area Residential Care and Sunnycrest Manor for the outstanding care and friendship they have provided for Ron these past years.

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

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, Wis., or given online at www.sinsinawa.org/donate.  

Sister Mark O’Loughlin

Sister Mark O’Loughlin, OP, died Feb. 4, 2024, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, Wis. Her wake and funeral Mass will take place Friday, Feb. 16, at 10:30 a.m. in St. Dominic Villa Chapel. Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, Ill., is handling arrangements.  

 Cleopha (Sister Mark’s baptismal name) was born Aug. 7, 1927, to Daniel and Bertha (Roberts) O’Loughlin in Kankakee, Ill. She made profession with the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa in 1954 and received the religious name of Sister Mark. She received a BA in speech and drama from Rosary College, River Forest, Ill., and a master’s in social work from Loyola University of Chicago.  

Sister Mark’s ministry has been dedicated to teaching, counseling, and social work. In Illinois, she taught at Trinity High School, River Forest; and Visitation High School, Chicago, where she also served as counselor. She also served as counselor at Visitation Grade School, Chicago; SS. Faith, Hope, and Charity, Winnetka; St. Viator, Arlington Heights; and Weber High School, Chicago. In Wisconsin, Sister Mark taught at Newman High School, Wausau. She also ministered in Wyoming and Washington, D.C.  

Sister Mark was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Daniel; and a sister, Marie Monahan. She is survived by her nephews Edward, James, and Michael Monahan, and her Dominican Sisters. Memorials may be made to the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, Wis., or given online at www.sinsinawa.org/donate.  

Larry L. Putman

Larry L. Putman, 68, passed away after a courageous fight against cancer on Monday, February 5, 2024.  Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Friday, February 9, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Thursday, February 8, 2024 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:30 am – 10:30 am on Friday, prior to Mass at the funeral home.  Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Larry was born November 16, 1955, the son of David E. and Thelma J. (Stuart) Putman.  He graduated from Bellevue Community High School in 1974.  Larry served his country in the US Air Force 1975-1976.  He married his high-school sweetheart Ruth Steines on June 24, 1978.  He worked at John Deere Works Dubuque and later at Flexsteel until his retirement in 2017.  Larry enjoyed spending time on the river as a commercial fisherman with family, especially his son Ryan. He loved spending time with family and friends, listening to country music, watching sports and cheering on the IOWA HAWKEYES.  He was a 9 year kidney transplant survivor (donated by his son Austin) and was able to enjoy many special moments these last several years with his family.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth; children, Andrea (Shane) Besler, Ryan (Rachael) Putman, and Austin (Olivia) Putman; grandchildren, Keaton, Ambrielle, Alyse, Aubrey, Blake, Brycen, Joelle, and Levi; siblings, David (Cindy) Putman, Cheryl Budde, and Connie (Pete) Anderson; sisters and brothers in-law, Norma Meyer, Dick (Marcia) Steines, Jim (Laurie) Steines, Barb Ries, Joyce Davids, Brenda (Terry) Bronson, Linda (Joey) Michels, and Lisa (Ron) VanNatta; his mother in-law, Eldora Steines; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Steve (Rita) Putman, Dick Meyer, Bill Meyer, and Dixie Putman; brothers in-law, Bob Ries, Bob Davids, Glenn Budde; and his father in-law, Glenn Steines.

The family would like to thank the University of Iowa Cancer & Transplant Centers, Hope Lodge, Dr. John E. Whalen, Dr. Jeffrey Hunter, Veterans Affairs and the Bellevue EMS for their wonderful care.

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

Mary Ann Drees

Mary Ann Drees, 98, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2024 at her home surrounded by loving family.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Friday, February 9, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville followed by a 1 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.  Fr. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Mary Ann was born on July 29, 1925 on the family farm in Dyersville, Iowa, the daughter of Henry and Catherine (Tegeler) Gerken.  She married James Drees on June 9, 1948 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa. Together, they farmed and raised their family west of Dyersville until moving to Dyersville in 2001.

Mary Ann was a lifetime member of St. Francis Xavier Parish. Faith and family were the center of Mary Ann’s life; she prayed the rosary daily. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America. She enjoyed gardening and nourishing her many flowers. She was an excellent cook, baker, and enjoyed hosting for family gatherings. She lovingly teased with her family and friends and had a great sense of humor. She enjoyed cards, puzzles, St. Louis Cardinals, and time with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially the babies.

Survivors include her children: Dennis (Deb) of Iowa City, Iowa, Daniel (Mary) of Durango, Iowa, Debra (Norb) McClimon of Dyersville, Iowa, Darrell (Cheri) of Petaluma, Calif., Darla Budden of Petersburg, Iowa, Diane Drees of Dyersville, Iowa, Dawn (Gary) Olberding of Dyersville, Iowa and Delynn (Dave) Fangman of Asbury, IA, and a special niece, Sr. Lynn Marie Fangman, PBVM, of Dubuque; 19 grandchildren: Kari (Jake) Beltz, Matt (BreAnn) Drees, Emily(Matt) Maiers, Libby (Garrett) Seligman, Brad (Jenn) McClimon, Ted (Kathy) McClimon, Tim (Meagan) McClimon, Lindsay (Gaston) Sueldo, Bryan (Grace) Drees, Sarah (Ashley Selbert) Drees, Jesse (Amber) Drees, Toby Budden, Katie (Corey) McAfee, Joseph (Callie) Budden, Nick Budden, Molly (Charlie Fast) Olberding, Rob (fiance, Kendra Bushman) Olberding, Brent (Sarah) Fangman, Abbie (Matt) Nohr; and 28 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, James, one son in infancy, son-in-law, Rick Budden; siblings:  Lorraine (Charlie) Fangman, Bernard (Irene) Gerken, Charles (Cora) Gerken, Catherine (Robert) Megel, Leo (Julie) Gerken, Vernita (Roy) Frericks; in-laws: Charles (Lee) Drees, David (Janet) Drees.

The family would like to thank Kelli McDermott, Janet Hall, and Sherry Krapfl for their compassionate care and support to Mary Ann and the entire Drees family. Also a thank you to the staff at Hospice of Dubuque.

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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Randy R. Laufenberg

Randy R. Laufenberg, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on February 1, 2024, at Mercy Hospital, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Randy’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Randy’s family.

Randy was born on October 11, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Roy M. and Jeanette E. (Pfeiffer) Laufenberg.  He was raised with a strong work ethic in conjunction with an unwavering moral compass.  His word was his bond and he found great pride in living out his years as such.  Randy was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and immediately signed up to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Upon returning home, Randy trained as a welder which led him to employment at John Deere Dubuque Works.  He also spent time employed at Younkers and Key City Moving, then retired from Mi-T-M as a welder.

Randy was blessed with a full life outside of work as well and found numerous ways to spend his free-time.  At the age of 4, Randy discovered his love for motorcycles and spent countless hours throughout the years burning up miles and touring on his Goldwing with his boys and best friend, Terry right by his side.  They made many trips to Colorado and were always up for local runs whenever possible.  Randy was also a gifted musician who played guitar in several bands in his high school years and always treasured the garage band days where all were invited to enjoy some good music.  He also spent many early morning hours fishing with his dad, sons and grandchildren.  But, for those who truly knew and loved Randy, his greatest joy was found in the  title of “Grandpa.” He also had a love for canines and always had one by his side throughout the years.  Randy was a loyal and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who strived to play each role to the best of his abilities and continually reaffirm that those he loved and adored knew it was so.

It’s beyond difficult to process the sudden absence of Randy’s love and light from our physical lives, but we know that he was tired of fighting his earthly battles over these recent years and only wanted peace where it could be found.  Thank you, Randy, for never giving up when you were on the right track, for listening more than talking when appropriate, and for leading by example in your words, thoughts, and actions in such a manner that your legacy will be clearly felt and seen in the generations you leave behind now.  We pray that the Lord will provide the comfort we seek while granting Randy the peace he deserves, and may the abundance of wonderful memories we possess hold us securely until we can all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Randy include,

his beautiful wife of 27 years,
Victoria “Vicky” (Johnson) Laufenberg, Dubuque, IA;

his sons,
Jason (Amanda) Laufenberg,
and Kyle (Amber) Laufenberg, both of Dubuque;

his step-sons,
Ed (Jenifer) Pickel, St. Donatus, IA,
and Tony Pickel, Peosta, IA;

his five adored grandchildren,
Kelsey, Luke, Carter, and Layne Laufenberg, and Avery Pickel;

his two sisters,
Linda (Jan) Scott, Dubuque,
and Lori (Dick) Launspach, Sherrill, IA;

his nieces and nephews,
Jared (Angie) Wolfe, Dubuque,
J.W. (Angelia) Henslee, Dubuque,
Dana (Tyler) McAtee, Peosta,
Miles Launspach, Madison, WI,
Sarah (Ben) Biver, Dubuque,
and Katie (Josh) Malli, Northwood, IA;

his great-nieces and nephews,
Connor Wolfe, Lincoln and Everley Henslee, Emma, Bo, and Olivia McAtee, Jacob, Sean and Derek Biver, and Olivia Lang;

his sister-in-law,
Kathy (Steve) Jaeger, Dubuque;

his brother-in-law,
Ron Johnson, Dubuque;

his best friend,
Terry (Linda) Weidemann, Dubuque;

his ex-wife,
Cindy Stuart, Dubuque;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents; his mother and father-in-law, Bill and Beverly White; his brother-in-law, Jay Johnson; and his great-nephew, Bradley Schmitt.

Randy’s family would like to thank Dr. Ram, Dr. Johnston at UIHC, nurse Sarah in the ICU at Mercy, and the Dubuque Fire Department for all of their professional and compassionate care of Randy and his family during his last moments with us.  Your kindness and gentleness helped to bring a little peace into our hearts and minds during a very difficult time and for that we are forever grateful.

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

Roger Holdridge

Roger Holdridge, 84, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, February 5, 2024, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows.

“Happy Hour” visitation will be held on Friday, February 9, from 3:00 p.m. until the 5:30 p.m. Farewell Toast Memorial Service, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Rev. Dianne Grace will officiate.

Roger was born July 18, 1939 in Manchester, IA, the son of Donald “Pete “and Willa (Wilson) Holdridge. He served in the U.S. Navy for two years. Roger married Beverly Meyer on July 25, 1957, and they had two daughters, Laura and Kelly.

He was employed at Georgia Pacific for many years, until his retirement.

Roger was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and the Iowa Hawkeyes, and enjoyed watching his great grandsons play sports. Trips to Florida with his siblings were a highlight for Roger, and he also enjoyed going to the dog rack on Wednesdays with his brothers. No one was a bigger fan of Happy Hour than Roger, and he had several spots he was a regular.

Roger is survived by two daughters, Laura (Steve Birch) Chapman,  of Dubuque, and Kelly (Michael) Pearson, of Tulsa, OK; his grandchildren, Nikki (Eric McCarty) Chapman, Luke (Amber Saffan) Chapman, Rachael(Cory) Wilson, Meredith (Frank Garcia) Pearson, and Brooklyn (Sam Mahr) Pearson; nine great grandchildren; and two brothers, Oscar (Candy) Holdridge, and Richard (Joyann) Holdridge.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Everett and Gale “Pat” Holdridge; his sister, Donna Porter; and his former wife, Beverly.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Manor Grand Meadows for their care of Roger.

Memorials may be made to the Dubuque Humane Society. 

Richard J. Peters

Richard J. “RJ” Peters, 88, of Galena, IL passed away Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community.

The funeral service will be at 11:00 AM, Friday, February 9, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena.

Friends may call at the Furlong Funeral Chapel from 4 to 7 PM on Thursday, February 8, 2024.

The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Military honors will be accorded at the funeral chapel following the service by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

He was born November 28, 1935, in Rice Township, rural Galena, the son of Harry and Hazel (Bills) Peters. RJ married Algean Ties on May 31, 1958, at the Old Nazarene Church, Galena and she preceded him in death on February 4, 2020.

He served in the United States Army from 1958 until his honorable discharge in 1960. RJ worked for the Galena Aluminum and Brass Factory until retiring. After retirement, he continued to operate RJ’s Recycling which he did for many years.

He enjoyed junking, bowling, reading westerns, and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. He was a member of the Schapville Presbyterian Church.

RJ is survived by his four sons, Robert (Joan), Steven (Becky), Thomas (Mary), and Keven all of Galena, six grandchildren, Brian, Christi, Miranda, Samuel, Zoey, and Michael, two great-grandchildren, Willow and Malachi Traeger, one brother, Donald Peters. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a daughter, Pamela, and a son, David, a brother, Victor, and a sister, Jacqueline Brewer.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque.

Your care and kindness will never be forgotten. 

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Sharon M. Hamel

Sharon M. Hamel, 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Sunday February 4, 2024, at Bethany Home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m., with a rosary service at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, February 8, 2024, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, February 9, 2024, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church with Rev. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Sharon was born on June 2, 1940, in Placid, IA, daughter of John Faley and Bernice (McDermott) Faley. She married William J. Hamel on July 15, 1959, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

Sharon raised six very energetic children while Bill worked full time at the Dubuque Packing Company and full-time operating Hamel Sodding and Landscaping (and snow removal). Sharon was a crucial part of the family business. Her duties were wide ranging and included, but were not limited to billing, accounts payable, taxes, and hosing her sons down in the yard after they spent a hot and dusty day laying sod. After her own children were out of the house, Sharon worked at the Nativity Day Care for many years.

Sharon was a wonderful conversationalist and had an excellent sense of humor. She was an avid reader and enjoyed many different kinds of puzzles.

Sharon was a loving wife and mother, and her grandchildren had a special place in her heart. She also had a special bond with her granddog, Sweetie.

She handled life with resilience, serenity, faith, gentleness and starch in her spine.

Sharon is survived by her husband, William J. Hamel; six children, Dirk (Lorilee) Hamel, Vicki (Dave) Sullivan, Scott (Tara) Hamel, Doug (Lynn) Hamel, Kari (Richard Stanford) Hamel, Jodi (Curt) Graff; four siblings, J. Michael (Sharon) Faley, Norene Ruden, Joseph (Lisa) Faley, and Carol Tellefson; ten grandchildren, Erin (Dan) MacDade, Will (Jenni) Sullivan, Jack (Kylee Metzger) Sullivan, Owen Hamel, Jami Hamel, Seiji Stanford, Fiore Ren Stanford, Kai Stanford, Mary Catherine Graff, and Gabriel Graff. She is also survived by one great-grandchild, Callan Sullivan MacDade who was born just three months ago. Also surviving are numerous nieces and nephews.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers-in-law, Richard Ruden and Terry Tellefson.

A Sharon Hamel Memorial Fund has been established.

Sharon’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Dr. Chad Nachtman and his staff, and Julie Ehlinger, ARNP and her assistant Mikayla.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Janice C. Sautter

Janice C. Sautter, 71, of Dubuque, died Sunday, February 4, 2024.

There will be no public services. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with the arrangements.

Janice was born on June 11, 1952, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the daughter of Darryl and Julia (Menne) Norman.

She was a dietary aide at Care Initiatives- State Center for over 34 years, until her retirement in 2017.

She enjoyed word games, dogs, and cats. She loved to laugh, especially at her son’s crude sense of humor. Her grandchildren were the best part of her life. 

She will be missed by her son, Justin (Emily) Blue; son-in-law, Jeff (Jen) Brannen; grandchildren, Kelcey Blue, Kendra (Konner) Kacmaryinski, Jayden Blue, Parker Brannen, Paige Brannen, Payton Brannen, Sam (Emily) Taylor, Sophia Zebarth and Henry Zebarth; and brother, John (Bonnie) Norman.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jennifer Brannen; and her parents.

Memorials may be given to Linked by Pink, Breast Cancer Research.

Please send cards or memorial donations to Justin and Emily Blue, 2535 Windsor Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa 52001.

Special thank you to Inne and Dee Taylor, Dr. John Whalen, Dr. Gretchen Hong, Jamie Hammerand, DNP, ARNP and the staff at Finley Hospital for their exceptional care.

Mary M. Roddy

Mary Margaret (Smith) Roddy, 89, passed away on February 4, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center, Memory Care Unit.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:45p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 7, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Mary was born on June 3, 1934, in New Vienna, IA, the daughter of Edward Kiley Smith and Margaret Mary (Hamlin) Smith.

She graduated from St. Boniface High School, New Vienna in 1952, and from Mercy School of Nursing, Dubuque in 1956 with her RN.

She married John “Jack” Roddy on April 4, 1959, in New Vienna, IA. She was a member of St. Columbkille Church and Mother of Mercy, Mother’s Club Circle.

Mary was a labor and delivery nurse at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque from 1956 to 1959 and a night nurse at Hills and Dales from 1973 to 2006. Mary was a compassionate nurse who loved caring for mothers and children.

She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a great friend to many and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her children: Mary Ann (Mark) Feldman, Susan “Sue” Roddy, John “Jack” (Kelli) Roddy, Lynn Roddy, James “Jim” (Lisa) Roddy and Martin “Marty” Roddy. Grandchildren: Emily (Josh) Schindler, Molly (Dillion) Scarecello, Ellen (AJ) Sellers, Kate (Jesse) Galef, Sarah (Jack) Margeson, Evin Roddy, Donovan Roddy, Elie Roddy, Iris Roddy and Nora Roddy and five great grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jack, her twin brother Charles, brothers Donald E. Smith and John “Jack” Smith, his twin sister in infancy, and a grandson Eoin Roddy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Stonehill Health Center, Hills and Dales or Hospice of Dubuque in memory of Mary.

Thomas C. Maas

Thomas C. Maas, 78, of Dubuque, died Saturday, February 3, 2024, at home in Dubuque surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:45 am Friday, February 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Tom will be 12:00 pm Friday, February 9, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Thomas was born September 10, 1945, in Dubuque, the son of Louis Carl and Eleanor Dorothy Graham Maas. On July 1, 2021, he married Pam Marie Davis in Dubuque.

He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

Tom retired from John Deere Dubuque Works in 1994 after 30 years. He then drove RTA bus and motor coach bus before opening Blue Feather Express in 2004 that he owned, operated and drove for as an over-the-road trucker.

He found the love of his life Pam, in 2020; They loved to spend winters in Florida.  He spent his free time traveling, golfing, antiquing, swimming, and spending time with his family, whom he adored greatly. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a 41 year member of AA.

Survivors include wife, Pam; three daughters, Sherry (Ron) Lohneis of Dubuque, Tracy (Bill) Birch of Dubuque, and Tammy (Stan) Gonner of Galena; one stepson, Brian Dittmar of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Travis (Amber) Lohneis, Ethan (Janna Johnson) Lohneis, Austin (Darian) Lohneis, Jamie (Jeff Yeo) Birch, Cody Birch, Andrew (Kelsey) Gonner, and Elizabeth Willems; two step-grandchildren, DeJay Dittmar and Julia Dittmar; ten great-great-grandchildren, Jordan, Carson, Kinsley, Blair, Brayden, Chase, Jax, Poppy, Lucas, and Perrin; one sister, Patricia (Bernie) Gahan of Cambridge, WI; and many nieces and nephews,

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Sharon Blakeman, Jack Ewert, and Edward Apel, and granddaughter, Felica Lohneis.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Hermann, and the Iowa City Hemophilia Clinic for all the years of care.

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