Obituaries Archive

Randall L. Coffin

Randall L. “Randy” Coffin, 70, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Randy loved the outdoors, whether it be fishing or hunting squirrels, deer, pheasant, or mushrooms.  He also enjoyed listening to old Rock’n’roll music.

Randy’s memory will be cherished and kept alive by his longtime girlfriend of 40 years, Diane Koranda of Oxford Junction, IA; children, Tim Coffin and family of Maquoketa, IA, and Kate Coffin and family of OK; sisters, Rhonda (Boyd) Davis of Maquoketa, IA, and Rochelle Black of Cedar Rapids, IA; and nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A public graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held at 10:00 AM., Friday, February 2, 2024, at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Randall L. Coffin memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert J. Mills

Robert J. Mills, 88, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 28, 2024, at his home.

A private burial will be at Dubuque Memorial Gardens. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Bob was born on November 13, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Al and Mary (Sparks) Mills. Bob was employed by Star Brewery for 40 years, retiring in 1993.

Bob was an avid Viking fan and euchre player. He enjoyed spending time at the American Legion and sitting on his front porch swing having a beer with family and friends.

He is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Jim) Fell and his son Timothy (Mary) Mills. Grandchildren: Kyle, Christopher (Felicia), Katie (Al), Hannah (Gage) and Dominic. Great-Grandchildren: Grant, Cael, Greyson, Alantae and Kadeem. His brother Paul (Karron) Mills and sisters-in-law Norma Mills and Pat Mills.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Al Mills.

Gwendolyn L. Elmegreen

Gwendolyn L. “Gwen” Elmegreen, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Monmouth, Iowa, on January 27, 2024, just one day after celebrating her 80th birthday. Born in Keokuk, Iowa, on January 26, 1944, to Hubert and Neva Mae (Teastworth) Stark, Gwen grew up to be a woman of strong faith and unwavering dedication to her family.

Gwen graduated from Pleasant Valley High School in 1963 and immediately embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying her soulmate, Ronald Elmegreen, that same year. The young couple’s love blossomed, and together they purchased a farm near the Ozark Bridge in 1965, which they would call home for the rest of their lives. Their partnership extended beyond their marriage as they worked side by side to cultivate a life filled with love and hard work on their beloved farm. 

In addition to her commitment to the family farm, Gwen was a compassionate soul who dedicated part of her life to caring for others as a home healthcare provider. Her nurturing nature also found expression in her work at the Ertl Toy Factory in Dyersville and later as a friendly and familiar face to many as a cashier at Walmart in Maquoketa.

Gwen’s life was a testament to her faith and the joy she found in simple pleasures. She was a devout Christian who lived her beliefs through acts of kindness and love. As a member of the Maquoketa VFW Ladies Auxiliary, she contributed to her community and honored the service of others. Her hobbies reflected her creative spirit and love for life. Gwen was an accomplished quilter, creating beautiful works of art that will be cherished by her family for generations. An avid reader, she delighted in the twists and turns of a good mystery novel. Her green thumb was evident in the vibrant plants that flourished under her care, a symbol of her ability to nurture and grow all that surrounded her.

Gwen’s legacy is carried on by her loving husband, Ronald Elmegreen of Monmouth, IA; her children, Von Elmegreen of Oklahoma City, OK, Heidi (Jerry) Weets of Lockport, IL, and Art (Kathy) Elmegreen of Delmar, IA. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren, Kellie (Johnn) Sanabria, Amanda Weets, Auston (Christine) Weets, Allison Weets, Sarah Mai, and Aaron Clark, and a doting great-grandmother to nine great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

A celebration of her life will held at 10:00 AM, Friday, February 2, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Ozark Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gwendolyn L. “Gwen” Elmegreen memorial fund has been established.

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

Patricia G. Woodard

Patricia G. “Pat” Woodard 84 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, January 1, 2024, at her home. A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM, Friday, February 9, 2024, at the Galena Bible Church, Galena where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born December 30, 1939, in St. Paul, MN the daughter of Donald and Evadine (Charter) Tomlinson. Pat met Jack Woodard, on New Year’s Eve, 1962 and they were married on February 8, 1964, in St. Clair Shores, MI.

As a child, Pat’s family moved around and consequently, she did not have the opportunity to finish High School. With little formal education, she still held jobs that put her in positions of responsibility and management. Pat was also a wonderful homemaker who watched over the needs of her family. In heryounger years, she loved to read, crochet, craft, and bowl. Later in life, she enjoyed quilting, traveling, playing games like Mexican train dominos, visiting, and spending time with family and friends.

Pat is survived by her husband, Jack, a daughter, Lori Brock, two granddaughters, Kayla (Steven) Johnson and Kelsey (Justin) Kuglin, three great-grandchildren, Achilles, Burtus, and Lee, her siblings, Marilyn (Irle) Boehm, Wayne (Julie) Tomlinson, and Karen (Bob) Fitzgerald.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Brian Woodard, and four siblings.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Mercy One Hospital and Staff, and our family and friends for all the love, prayers, and support.

Memorials may be given to Safe Haven in memory of Pat. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Alice A. De Sotel

Alice A. De Sotel, 102 of New Vienna, Iowa passed away Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at Guttenberg Care Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 3, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Funeral services will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Alice was born on March 29, 1921 in National, Iowa, the daughter of Bernard and Agnes (Auer) Berns. She was a 1939 graduate from St. Joseph’s High School in Garnavillo, Iowa.  She married Mark De Sotel on February 22, 1941 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Garnavillo. They farmed in Osterdock for six years before moving to Luxemburg, to continue farming. They raised a family of eight children. After retiring from farming, they moved to New Vienna in 1986, where she lived until she was 95 years old.

Alice was always a helpful hand outside doing farm work and tending to her garden. She filled her days with cooking, baking, and canning, if she had some free time, she loved to play the piano. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and always had cookies and other baked goods for them to enjoy.

Survivors include her children: Betty (Joseph) Mallie of Cedar Rapids, Rodney (Mary) De Sotel of Luxemburg, Mark (Linda) De Sotel of Fairfax, Sandra (Garland) Otto of Albert City, Sue (Robyn) Schultz of Guttenberg, Bradley (Kathleen) De Sotel of Athens, AL, and Ned De Sotel of Green Bay, WI; grandchildren: Brian De Sotel, Jason (Erin) De Sotel, Janell (Steve) Schilling, Denton (Beth) De Sotel, Dalton De Sotel, Damon De Sotel, Deidre (Aaron) Brown, Brandon (Kari) Otto, Heather (Chuck) Martin, Brett (Natasha) Schultz, Drew (Brandie Tomkins) Schultz, Shannon (Drew) Bagwell, Allison De Sotel, Megan De Sotel, Ben De Sotel, Madison De Sotel, and 22 great grandchildren, which includes three sets of twins.

She was preceded in death by her husband Mark in 2000, a daughter, Bonnie in 2023, a son, Bruce in infancy, and a great-granddaughter, Christina Martin in 2018; siblings: Harold Berns in infancy, Marguerite Heying, and Lorraine Berns; in-laws: George (Marge) De Sotel, Leo (Margaret) De Sotel, Anastasia (Harold) Frommelt, Leona (John) Wieser, Mildred (Arthur) Wernke, and Dorothy (Elmer) Trappe.

The family would like to thank Guttenberg Care Center and St. Croix Hospice for their care and compassion to Alice.

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.

David V. Tone

Born July 6, 1964, to parents Mel and Rosanne (Seipp) Tone in beautiful Dubuque, Iowa.

He was the second of two sons, joining his older brother Tom (Cathy). David especially enjoyed the outdoors: dutch-oven cooking, deer hunting, camping, and riding his motorcycle in his youth and as an adult. He was an animal lover, dogs in particular and he always had one or more by his side. 

He met his soul mate, Maxine (Hayes) at the age of sixteen.  They remained loving sweethearts throughout the rest of his life.  David was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy at the tender age of sixteen during a sports physical for wrestling.  He and his wife Maxx had two children, Alexander and Kirsten. David was a stay-at-home husband and father and worked part-time as a delivery driver and later a taxi driver in Galena.  David believed volunteering was a lifestyle. He was a positive role model to many, many youth, as he shared his interests in the outdoors and religion as a Scout leader and Sunday School teacher. He deeply enjoyed teaching new skills or ideas and watching those under his tutelage grow. His hobbies included reading murder mysteries, home repair shows, wood working, and brewing his own beer as a member of the Dubuque Area Society of Brewers.

David was a loving son, husband, brother/brother-in-law, father/father-in-law, uncle, and grandfather.  He lived a life full of love for God.  He survived two heart transplants, one in 1983 and a second one in 2013.  He always looked toward the positive as he journeyed through his health challenges with both courage and strength.  He snared many with his dry wit that could be sarcastic or slap-stick, often catching them by surprise in his net.  He left this earth a legacy of hope through valor and quiet dignity in times of challenge and growth.

He is survived by his father, Mel Tone, his wife Maxine (Maxx), his children Alexander (Gina) and Kirsten (Darren Kelley) and his grand-daughter Reaghan and his brother Tom (Cathy) and was preceded in death by his mother, Rosanne and both sets of grandparents. 

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, February 3, 2024, at the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the church. Cremation rites will be accorded following the services.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. John Whalen, the UIHC Heart Transplant teams, and the Jackson County Hospice team for their exemplary care.

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

Jack A. Lucas

Jack A. Lucas, age 66, of Port Orchard, WA, formerly of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 25, 2024.  In keeping with Jack’s wishes, there will be no public services.

Jack was born on August 27, 1957, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John P. and Joan E. (Leibfried) Lucas.  He honorably served his country with the U.S. Navy and upon retirement enjoyed spending his time surrounded by family and friends.  We will miss Jack dearly and pray that the Lord keeps him safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jack include,

his two daughters,
Tera (Josh) Hasbrook and Keri (James) Thompson;

his 4 grandchildren,
Alee, Emery, Sutton, and Kaden;

his mother and step-father,
Joan (Bob) Valentine;

his siblings,
Joyce Lucas, Judy (Tom) Leibfried, Jane (Tim) Temperly, Janice (Joe) DeMuth, Jean (Bill) Chaffee, JoAnn (Greg) Timmerman, Jim Lucas, and Jeri (Charlie) Inman;

his step-sisters,
Lynn (Tony Kamp) Lang and Pat (Mike) Valentine;

along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Jack was preceded in death by his father, John Lucas; his grandparents, Marie Lucas and George (Stella) Leibfried; his step-brother, Mike Valentine; and his nephew, Brian Chaffee.

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

Jason J. Wernke

Jason J. Wernke, age 42, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024.  To honor Jason’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Jason was born on May 24, 1981, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Donald and Barbara (Johnson) Wernke.

Jason attended school at Dubuque Senior High School and Central High School.  After school he worked for several places, lastly at Nordstrom in Dubuque.  He married Melissa Pope in September of 2003, in Dubuque.  In his free time Jason enjoyed shooting pool with friends, going camping and trying his luck at the casinos.  He was always willing to help out a friend in need with a smile on his face and no complaints.  He especially enjoyed time spent with his family and friends.

Those left to cherish Jason’s memory include

his wife,
Melissa Wernke, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Hailey Pope
and Jaxon Wernke, both of Dubuque, IA;

his sisters,
Jennifer (Roger Bartell) Wernke, Galena, IL
and Brenda (Dennis) Brehm, Durango, IA;

3 half-brothers,
Andrew (Sara) Wernke, Columbus, GA,
Donald J. Wernke, Tucson, AZ
and Jeffery Wernke, Flagstaff, AZ;

6 nephews,
Cody (Jordan) Bartell, Jesse (Jenna) Bartell, Richard Bartell, Dawson Brehm, Braiden Brehm, and Chase Brehm;

and several cousins.

Jason was preceded in death by his parents; and several aunts and uncles.

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

Agnes M. Bernhard

Agnes M. Bernhard, 93, of Bellevue, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at the Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa after a brief illness.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 am until 9:45 am on Thursday, February 1, 2024 at Cathedral of St. Raphael.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Agnes will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Agnes Marie Murphy was born in Dubuque County on May 19, 1930. Her parents were John Francis and Gertrude (Logan) Murphy. Agnes married Louis Graver Bernhard on May 2, 1953 at Cathedral of St. Raphael. They were married for 68 years. He preceded her in death in 2021.

Agnes graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy, Dubuque, in 1948.  She enrolled and completed the X-Ray Technician training at Mercy Hospital, Dubuque. She was employed for many years at Mercy Hospital and at Medical Associates.

Agnes was a staunch supporter of education and local Catholic Schools. She was extremely proud of her family and spoke often of her brother and sisters.

Those left to honor her memory are her daughter, Ann Bernhard (John) Hoff of Bellevue; son, Mark (Mary) Bernhard of Davenport; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Ryan) Waller of Marion; Peter (Alyssa) Hoff of Maquoketa; Anthony (Kristen) Bernhard of Elkhorn, NE; Kathryn (Daniel) Meyer of Aurora, IL; and Nicholas (Mallory) Bernhard of Grand Forks, ND; great-grandchildren, Hayden and Emma Waller, Frances and Joseph Bernhard, Charlotte, Erin, and John Meyer, Olivia Hoff, and Louis and Elizabeth Bernhard. She is further survived by her sister, Gertrude Wersinger; sisters-in-law, Sharon Murphy and Barbara Bernhard; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary (Daniel) Beck, Rita (Patrick) Foley, Ann (John) Xavier, Therese (Michael) Moran; and brother, John Murphy; and brothers-in-law, LaVerne Wersinger and Cotton Bernhard.

Memorials may be made to St. Raphael Cathedral Parish, Dubuque, Iowa.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Sunrise Villa and Mill Valley Care Center.

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

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

Stephanie A. Mallaro

Stephanie “Sunshine” Ann Mallaro, 48, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on January 27, 2024 in her home, surrounded by her family, music, and teddy bears.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday February 1, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday January 31, 2024, as well as from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, both at the funeral home. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Stephanie was born on June 8, 1975 to Roderic and Barbara Mallaro. She saw the world differently than others and touched the lives of every person she met. Stephanie grew up in Rochelle, Illinois and graduated from Byron high school in 1996. She played basketball, loved bowling, and participated in the Special Olympics for many years where she received numerous medals and ribbons. Our Sunshine was a member of the Village of Progress in Oregon, IL for several years before moving back to her hometown of Dubuque, IA in 2000. She spent her first few years back working at ARC, and more recently attended Cozy Corners where she enjoyed singing, dancing, and making many friends and memories. Stephanie loved spending time with her family and traveled all over the country on family vacations, visiting Colorado, Virginia, Florida, and Tennessee. Her favorite trips were always the family time spent at the cabin in Wisconsin. She was a pure soul who loved to color, play Yahtzee, do puzzles, play with her stuffed animals, and listen to music.

She was truly an angel on Earth who will be missed beyond measure by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her innocent heart. Survived by her mother Barb Mallaro, sister Nina (Megan) Mallaro, nephews Michael (Tessa) Finn and Matthew Long, her new great niece Ava Nicole Finn, as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

She will be greeted in Heaven by her father Roderic Mallaro (1984) and her sister Nicole Long (2021).

A special thank you to the Hospice of Dubuque nurses, especially Jessica, for their love and care of Stephie on her journey home. As well as a thank you to all of her staff over the years, including everyone at Hills and Dales who cared for her and helped give her the life she so deserved. With an extra special thank you to Alex, Lisa, Jasmine, Melissa, and Hailey. And finally a special thank you to Bob, Mariko, and the staff of Cozy Corners for giving her a place to attend that filled her with so much love and happiness.

When it was found out what Stephanie was going through, her message for her Mom, family, and friends was, “Don’t worry bout a thing because every little thing’s gonna be okay.”

Father Richard W. Kuhn

With great sadness and tremendous pride in a pastoral life well lived, the family of Fr. Richard (Dick) William Kuhn regret to announce his peaceful death. Fr. Kuhn died at the age of 95 at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque, on Friday, January 26, at 4:50 pm.

The forth of eight children, and oldest son, Fr. Kuhn was born at the family farm in Osage, IA, on March 18, 1928. He faced his first test at his baptism with ice-cold water from the frozen baptismal font, which was temporarily on the porch of the parish rectory due to a fire in the Sacred Heart church.  Fr. Kuhn worked on the family farm and was a football player and one of the most popular young men at both Osage High School and later Loras College in Dubuque, IA. He discerned his vocation while at Loras; and upon graduation, he entered Conception Seminary College in Conception, MO. Fr. Kuhn was ordained as a Roman Catholic Priest on May 17, 1953.  He served in dozens of parishes throughout the Archdiocese of Dubuque. Fr. Kuhn was most recently Pastor of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta and of Holy Family Catholic Church in New Mallory.  While at St. John’s, a major accomplishment was leading the effort to build the Seton Catholic School, Peosta Center.  For over 70 years, Fr. Kuhn was the bulwark of his close family and the epitome of a dedicated and faithful servant in the Archdiocese of Dubuque touching countless lives in a warm and positive way. He was well known for never forgetting a face or name and always being ready with a witty joke or pithy one-liner. Proud of his Irish heritage, he often entertained anyone that would listen with a spontaneous song. He retired from St. John’s and Holy Family in 2012 at the age of 84.

Fr. Kuhn was a Knight of Columbus and strong supporter of the Order and its principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.  He served as Council/Assembly Chaplain and Iowa State Council Chaplain.

Along with his many assignments in the Archdiocese of Dubuque, Fr. Kuhn was exceptionally proud to have served as a US Navy Chaplain for six years.  Following his commissioning at Newport, RI, he served first at Naval Air Station Adak, Alaska, and then the Naval Station in San Diego, CA. During his naval service, Fr. Kuhn was proud of the fact that he was the oldest Catholic Chaplain and oldest Lieutenant in active Navy service. In his retirement, Fr. Kuhn returned to San Diego for two years as a contract civilian chaplain for the Navy. Upon his return to Dubuque County, he was active in the local American Legion Post Six. To emphasize the pride he held for his naval service, he clearly expressed his desire for burial in his Service Dress White uniform.

He travelled extensively throughout his life, often visiting family, friends and loved ones. One had to be careful not to invite him, unless they were ready for him to show up. He also visited missionary friends from seminary and college days, and brought many pilgrims to shrines and holy places.

After his retirement, Fr. Kuhn energetically continued his service filling in as needed for Mass and hearing confessions at many parishes. He resided in his former rectory in Farley, IA., where he had earlier served as Pastor.  In his final year and a half, he was pleased to serve the residents at Assisi Village and Stonehill Health Center until a few weeks before his death. An avid baseball fan, Fr. Kuhn once related that he wanted to finish his life like a baseball player sliding head first into home plate, just under a tag! He also related he wanted to die a “poor man.” We, his family, think he succeeded in both.

The Kuhn family has always been close, and Fr. Kuhn was a driving force in keeping it that way.  He was preceded in death by his parents Sylvester and Elizabeth Kuhn of Osage, IA.; by two sisters, Phyllis Drake of Honolulu, HI and Joan Guest of Washington, DC; by two brothers, Robert M. Kuhn of St. Charles, IL, and Lieutenant Commander James P. Kuhn USN (died while on active duty in the Navy); and by his niece Sr. Marcia Guest, of the Servants of Mary in Omaha, NE.

He is survived by three sisters, Katherine Peterman of Boise, ID, Betty Jean Lovejoy of Minneapolis, MN., and Sister Jeanine Kuhn of the Sisters of the Presentation in Dubuque, IA.  Fr Kuhn also leaves over a dozen first and second cousins, 21 nieces and nephews and 36 grandnieces and grandnephews spread from Maine to Hawaii and south to Mexico.

Funeral Services are coordinated by the Reiff Funeral Home of Peosta, IA and will be conducted 1-3 February in both Peosta and Osage IA. On Thursday February 1st visitation will be at St John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, IA from 3-7pm preceded by a rosary at 2pm and followed by a Wake service at 7pm. On Friday February 2nd a Funeral Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta will commence at 2pm, preceded by a visitation in the church at 1 pm.  The Funeral Mass will be celebrated by the Most Reverend Thomas R. Zinkula, Archbishop of Dubuque.  On Saturday February 3rd a second Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Church in Osage, IA at 11am preceded by a visitation in the church at 10am.  Interment will follow at the Sacred Heart cemetery in Osage, IA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in the name of Fr. Richard Kuhn to the Seaton Catholic School in Peosta, IA may be sent direct to the school or to St. John the Baptist Church in Peosta.

Ronald A. Spillane

We are sad to announce the passing of Ronald A. Spillane of East Dubuque, IL on January 24, 2024. Ron died at the age of 82, following a short illness. The loss of his presence leaves a huge void, and he will be forever missed. The funeral mass will be held at 11:30 AM, Saturday, February 3, 2024, at St. Michael Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call after 9:30 AM until the time of mass. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting in the services.

Ron was born to Vincent and Alberta Spillane on December 26, 1941, in Hazel Green.  After graduating from Galena High School, he married Rose Tranel, his teenage sweetheart. He was a loving husband of 61 years to Rose and dedicated himself to caring for her during the last years they shared. Ron led a full life, enjoying time with his family and many hobbies and activities. He was an accomplished welder and woodworker, a dominating pitcher, and an avid outdoorsman. He never met a meat he couldn’t smoke. Always surrounded by family and friends, he enjoyed sharing his passions with those around him. Everyone who knew him could always count on a warm welcome and a cold beer.

Ron worked as a welder, an upholsterer, and a labor leader, but spent most of his professional life as the Director of the Dubuque United Way.

He is survived by his children Mike (Lori) of Galena, Greg (Susan) of Cary, IL, and Brian (Becky) of East Dubuque, grandchildren Austin, Emily (Joe) Pagura, Quinn, Cameron, Ellie, Allison, and sisters Rosemary Crawford, Jean Maxwell, and Diane (Ed) Holland.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, wife Rose, first-born son Dave, and his brothers Bob “RJ”, Jim, Barry, and Joe.

Special thanks for the gentle, attentive care given by the wonderful teams from Mercy Hospital, Galena Senior Care, and Hospice of Dubuque. The family kindly requests any donations be made in his honor to Hospice of Dubuque or the United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States.

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

Anna Mae Wimer

Anna Mae Wimer, age 97, of Dubuque, passed away at 9:15 a.m., on Friday, January 26, 2024, at home surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Anna Mae’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 5:45 p.m., on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Following cremation, burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Anna Mae was born on March 16, 1926, in Dubuque, daughter of Edmond and Ella (Linden) Tigges.

Anna Mae attended Holy Ghost School and Dubuque High School.  After school she went to work with the Battery Factory and would eventually go on to work for Dubuque Container, staying with them through all of the name changes, retiring from Georgia Pacific after 33 years.  Anna Mae married James D. Wimer on November 29, 1944, at the Holy Ghost Church Rectory.  They celebrated 46 years of marriage and raised their children together before James passed away on August 24, 1991.  Anna Mae was a long time member of Holy Ghost Church where she was a member of the Rosary Society.  In her free time she loved going to play Bingo, watching the dog races and trying her luck at the casino and on scratch-off tickets.  In her younger days she enjoyed playing Euchre with friends.  Anna Mae lived a good long life.  She loved her family and spending time with them brought her great happiness.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Anna Mae’s memory include

her children,
Joyce A. (Garry) Lucas, Dubuque, IA,
Karen L. Behr, Dubuque, IA,
Linda K. (Rodney Clark) Reisdorf, Davenport, IA
and Darryl J. Wimer, Dubuque, IA;

8 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 13 great great-grandchildren.

Anna Mae was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, James Wimer; her children, John and James Wimer in infancy, Marilyn Jean Wimer and Darwin (Sharon) Wimer; a son-in-law, Paul Behr; and her siblings, Eileen “Toots” (Ozzie) Pierce, Mildred (Bill) Duggan, Marge (Joseph) Keenan, Eldon (Louise) Tigges, Ralph (Carol) Tigges, Cletus (Collette) Tigges, Robert (Judy) Tigges and Arnilda “Nell” Dress.

Anna Mae’s family would like to thank her nurse, Emily, at MercyOne and everyone at Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided for Anna Mae.

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

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

Kathleen K. Appelhans

Kathleen K. (Miller) Appelhans, 71, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on January 25, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer and Parkinson’s disease.

Kathleen Kay Miller was born on February 28, 1952, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Forrest and Dixie (Butt) Miller.  After graduating from Midland Community High School in 1970, she embarked on a path of service and community involvement that would define much of her life. Her first job at the Ben Franklin in Maquoketa was a steppingstone to what would become a lifetime of meaningful work and relationships.

Married to the love of her life, Dennis, on February 20, 1971 in Monmouth, Iowa, they cultivated a life rich with love and hard work on their farm. Kathy’s innate ability to nurture extended beyond her family to the animals she and Dennis raised, from sheep to pigs and cattle, always with a gentle touch and a heart full of compassion.  Her passion for giving knew no bounds, as Kathy poured her energy into the 4H program, serving as a leader and on the 4H Extension Council for a decade.

Kathy’s commitment to her community was evident in her 20 years of tending to the Monmouth Cemetery alongside her sister, Carmin Margeson. Their dedication to this labor of love was a testament to Kathy’s respect for her roots and the history of those who came before her. Her work with the National Agricultural Statistics Service for the USDA became more than just a job; it was an opportunity to connect with local farmers and forge lasting friendships.

Known for her culinary talents, Kathy’s popcorn balls and fudge were more than just treats; they were symbols of her generosity, often donated to auctions and benefits, spreading joy and sweetness wherever they went. Her love of dance began in Stanwood on Saturday nights and continued throughout her life as she and Dennis stepped onto the dance floor with country line dancing.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Dennis, of Monmouth, IA; sons, Dan (Jennifer) of Central City, IA; Matt (Katy) of Anamosa, IA.  She was a proud grandmother to Myranda, Jaclyn, Gabby, Addison, and Garrett, and a delighted great-grandmother to Jameson.  Sister, Carmin Margeson of Baldwin, IA; uncle, George (Pam) Butt of Durand, IL; brother-in-law, David (Gay) Appelhans of Ankeny, IA; sister-in-law, Pam Spain of Maquoketa, IA; nephews, Shad (Ann) Patterson (who was like a 3^rd son to her) of Maquoketa, IA; and Bret Margeson of Bellevue.   She was preceded in death by her parents Forrest and Dixie Miller, father and mother-in-law, Jake and Shirley Appelhans, nephew Nick Margeson, infant brothers Terry and Forrest, 2 brothers-in-law and 1 sister-in-law.

A celebration of her life will held at 10 A.M., Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

The family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of Jackson County.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kathleen K. Appelhans memorial fund has been established.

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

Marsha L. Conlon

Marsha L. Conlon, age 70, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:40 a.m., on Friday, January 26, 2024, at home with her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.  To honor Marsha’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 5:45 p.m., on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday at the funeral home with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.

Marsha was born on October 14, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Dale W. and Virginia L. (Kenyon) Stierman.

Marsha attended Dubuque Senior High School and was a member of the 1st graduating class at Hempstead High School in 1970.  She was united in marriage to Paul Conlon on November 29, 1974, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.  They were blessed with a loving family and 47 years together before Paul passed away on July 30, 2022.  Marsha was employed at Klauer Manufacturing beginning on August 24, 1987, for 33 years until her retirement in 2020.  She was a long time member of Sacred Heart Church where she and Paul served as ushers.  Marsha was an active person who was very athletic and enjoyed spending time on the river with family and friends.  She was very creative and enjoyed cross stitching and several other craft projects.  She always planted beautiful plants and flowers and the family always joked that her main hobby was cleaning.  Marsha was an outstanding hostess who was a wizard in the kitchen creating delicious meals and delectable desserts.  She loved animals and all of her dogs were treated like little people with fur.  In her later years she and Paul liked to take trips to the casino to try their luck.  Spending time with her family was always at the top of her priority list and was the aspect of her life that brought her the greatest joy.  Marsha was always a small but mighty woman, from the way she fiercely loved her family to the way she battled her cancer like a true warrior.  She was very loved and will be missed tremendously.

Those left to cherish Marsha’s memory include

2 sons,
Chad (Maria) Conlon, Dubuque, IA
and Jonathan (Karen) Conlon, Holmes, NY;

3 grandchildren,
Carmen and Danny Conlon and Nina Conlon;

her siblings,
Sue (Bob) Baumhover, Campbell, TX,
Kit (Harry) Klotz, Prairie du Chien, WI,
Carla (Rick) Heer, Campbell, TX,
Bret (Marcia) Stierman, Dubuque, IA,
Brian (Veronica) Stierman, Dubuque, IA
and D.J. Stierman, Dubuque, IA;

step-sisters,
Laura Chapman, Dubuque, IA
and Kelly Pearson, Tulsa, OK;

2 brothers-in-law,
David Reed, Center Point, IA
and Jim (Kathy) Conlon, Durango, IA;

several nieces and nephews;

and last, but certainly not least, her beloved dog Nugget.

Marsha was preceded in death by her father and step-mother, Dale (Beverly) Stierman; her mother, Virginia Stierman; her husband, Paul Conlon; a sister, Robin Reed; a brother, Bruce Stierman in infancy; and a nephew, Joshua Reed.

Marsha’s family would like to thank Dr. Ryan Stille, Dr. Eric Engelman and his team, the Palliative Care team, Hospice of Dubuque and all of the amazing medical teams along her journey.  Their kindness and the loving care they provided Marsha brought her great comfort.  Also a very special thanks to Carla and Rick for traveling to Dubuque to stay with Marsha and care for her the past several months.  We cannot express how much your sacrifice means to us!

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

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