Obituaries Archive

Carol A. Ender

Carol Ann (Koch) Ender was welcomed home on her final journey by her guardian angels from above and surrounded by her family on March 30th, 2023.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. with prayer service starting at 6:00 pm. Monday, April 3rd, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road the service will be with Fr. Thomas McDermott officiating. Private family burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Carol was welcomed by her parents Charles Koch and Margaret (Baumgartner) Koch on July 21st, 1956. Carol attended St. Mary Elementary School and graduated from Wahlert High School in Dubuque.

Carol married her first love Larry Ender on September 12, 1975, at St. Mary’s church. Sadly, she lost him to a trucking accident on February 26th, 1997. Carol was given an opportunity that others always don’t receive by finding her 2nd love in her life Mike Kelley and was able to spend several years together.

She could create any vision someone would give her and make it happen. She loved decorating for parties. When you would look under the Christmas tree you always knew which presents were from Carol, the bows she created were beautiful.

Carol in later years was a wonderful care giver to Neil and Kay Kelley, Mike’s parents. Dementia is a very difficult process, but Carol took it in stride and made sure Kay was comfortable and happy until the end of her journey. Just recently, even when Carol wasn’t feeling well, she took care of her mom and Aunt Theresa. She made sure they had the care they needed during their recovery from surgery and a broken shoulder.

Carol was known for her napkin bunnies and the Bunny Fo Fo song. If you were ever in a restaurant with young children waiting for your food, Carol would create a napkin bunny and the Bunny Fo Fo song would begin.  Her son Matthew, her grandchildren Trenton and Weston as well as her niece and nephews will always carry the Bunny Fo Fo memories with them.

Carol is survived by her son Matthew Ender and his fiancé Katie Digman; two grandsons Trenton and Weston Ender; Carol’s Fiancé Mike Kelley, and her Sophie dog, her mother Margaret (Baumgartner) Koch; sisters: Jan (Mike) Hochberger and Ann (Randy) Nesteby along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother-in-law Terry Wright and sisters-in-law Sheila (Wright) Donovan, Sandy (Mike) Skahill and Kim Ender.

She is preceded in death by her father Charles Koch; her husband Larry Ender, her grandparents, a nephew Josh Hochberger, mother-in-law Rosie Seimke, brothers-in-law Bob Ender and Paul Donovan; sister-in-law Mary Wilson; Mikes parents Neil and Kay Kelley and many aunts and uncles.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque especially Buffy F. and Angelia, the UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital 4th floor surgery recovery unit and to Dr. Hermann and Dr. Wagner for all their wonderful care they gave to Carol.

In lieu of flowers a Carol Ender memorial fund will be established.

Anne M. Fuerst

Anne M. Fuerst, beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, age 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on March 29, 2023 at MercyOne Medical Center after a brief illness.

Anne was born on June 29, 1937 in Shenandoah, Iowa to Carl and Edna (Engler) Lumry.  After receiving her BA in Education from the University of Iowa (1959), Anne moved to Sheboygan to teach at Jefferson Elementary School.

On June 2, 1962 Anne was united in marriage to LeRoy Fuerst at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church. After marriage, Anne left the workforce and devoted her time to raising three sons, playing the role of den mother, occasional little league coach, regular camp counselor, catechism teacher and whatever was required by the situation. Taking part-time work with SEEK, Kelly services and Kohler Generator, Anne supported her love of travel that led her across the U.S. as well as to Canada and Europe.

In her community, Anne was a early activist in Wisconsin’s right to life movement. Later in life, her smiling face was regularly seen during her duties volunteering at St Nicholas Hospital, The Salvation Army, The Sheboygan County Historical Research Center and Maywood Environmental Park. We will miss her generous heart, quick wit, sense of humor and love for interacting with people.

Anne is survived by her sons Steve (Linda) Fuerst of Dubuque, Thomas (Pam) Fuerst of Redwood City, California, Daniel of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, granddaughter Ellyse Fuerst of Dubuque, step-grandchildren Reece (Harmony) Morgan of Dubuque, Rachel (Michael) Swets of Hartford, Wisconsin, and Zachary Morgan of Dubuque, along with five great grandchildren.  She is also survived by her cousins Carlyn Hunt of Edgewood, Iowa, Luetta Bornhouser of Dubuque and Marge Olberding of Dyersville, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her husband LeRoy in 2013, her parents Edna and Carl Lumry, aunt Clara Engler, brother William, cousins Chris Goedken of Dyersville, Iowa and Fr. Clarence Engler of Mary Knoll, NY and step granddaughter Allie Morgan.

Funeral services will be held in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. A memorial fund has been established in memory of Anne for the Dubuque County Right to Life and the Clarity Clinic. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Ryan P. Gerischer

Ryan P. Gerischer, 53, of Otter Creek, Iowa, went to Heaven on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Ryan Paul Gerischer was born on February 12, 1970 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to William E. and Linda R. (Thompson) Gerischer.  He grew up in Maquoketa and was a graduate of Maquoketa Community High School where he played basketball and was on the 1987 State Tournament team.  Following high school, he graduated from Scott Community College.  He married the love of his life, Mary Susie Dotterweich, on October 9, 1993 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, Iowa.  They have three amazing sons, Jacob, Quinton, and Alex.

Ryan had worked various jobs through the years including, Fastex, Clinton Engines, HOOF Products and WADY Industries.

Ryan loved his wife and children and enjoyed spending his time with them.  He was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Iowa Hawkeyes, and liked WWE Wrestling, Karaoke, living in the country, golfing, and making people laugh.  He was blessed with patience and a forgiving spirit.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Susie Gerischer of Otter Creek, IA; children, Jacob, Quinton, and Alex, all of Otter Creek, IA; one brother and one sister; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jerry and Colleen Dotterweich of Otter Creek, IA; sisters-in-law, Ann Budde of Davenport, IA, Kim (Jerry) Robinson of Maquoketa, IA; brothers-in-law, Paul (Linda) Dotterweich of Clinton, IA, and Peter (Trish) Dotterweich of Dubuque, IA; nieces, Amanda Budde of Davenport, IA, Brooke Dotterweich of Clinton, IA, and Michaela Walker of Maquoketa, IA; and nephews, Austin Budde of Davenport, IA, Seth Dotterweich of Clinton, IA, Logen Edwards of WI, and Dalton Edwards of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Otter Creek, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:30 PM Scripture Service will be held.  Burial will be at the St. Lawrence Church Cemetery, Otter Creek.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Ryan P. Gerischer memorial fund has been established.

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

James D. Pape

James D. Pape, of Bellevue, Nebraska, died Wednesday, March 29th, 2023 at Hillcrest Health and Rehabilitation Center in Bellevue, Nebraska.  Jim was surrounded by his family and passed away peacefully at the age of 83.

James is preceded in death by his wife Evelyn; parents Lewis and Bernice Pape; sister Carol.

He is survived by his son Curtis (Dana) Pape and his daughter Jamie; five grandchildren; three great grandchildren; siblings twin brother Jerry, Oran, Marty, Mary, and Lois.

James was born on September 28,1939 in Dyersville, Iowa.  He graduated from New Vienna High School in 1957.

He enlisted in the United States Air Force in January 1962 and served 27 years including tours in southeast Asia during the Vietnam conflict.  He spent his entire military career in the Strategic Air Command (SAC) and 10 years on the SAC Airborne Command Post.  After his military service, he worked for the Bellevue Public School Service for 15 years.  He was a lifetime member of the American Legion and VFW.  He was a dedicated member of the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 1st, Bellevue Memorial Funeral Chapel in Bellevue, Nebraska from 6:00 – 8:00 pm with service at 7:00 pm.  Visitation will also be held at the Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa on Wednesday, April 5th from 2:00 – 8:00 pm, with another visitation on Thursday, April 6, 9:00-10:00 am at Kramer Funeral Home.

Memorial Mass:  Thursday, April 6th at 10:30 a.m. at the St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, Iowa followed by burial at St. Boniface Cemetery with a reception to follow at the New Vienna Community Center.  All are welcome to attend and celebrate his life.

To view a live broadcast of the service on April 1st at 7 pm, please click the link below.

https://boxcast.tv/view/james-d-pape-yl9nsjpleoubuokxhfxt

Military Honors: U. S. Air Force Honor Guard

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Nebraska, St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, Iowa or to the family.

Brian E. Ties

Brian E. Ties, age 46, of Iowa City and formerly of Graf, passed away at 9:01 p.m., on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics with his loving family beside him.  To honor Brian’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, April 6, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Church, 241 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa, with Rev. Joseph Sia officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Brian was born on April 23, 1976, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Ronald and Margaret (Long) Ties.

He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1994, and went on to earn his degree from Iowa State University in December of 1998.  Brian was employed as a financial advisor with MidwestOne Bank for 12 years.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Kathryn “Kate” Barry, on August 16, 2003, in Dubuque.  Together they have a wonderful son, Cooper, whom Brian was very proud of.  He was very active in his community, especially with Iowa City Boys Baseball, where he served on the board and coached.  He also coached Iowa City Boys Basketball.  Brian liked watching the Hawkeyes and traveling to Chicago for Cubs games.  He was a woodworker who was very handy around the house, and always had a home improvement project going on.  We are truly heartbroken at losing Brian.  He was a wonderful son, husband, dad, brother and uncle who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish Brian’s memory include,

his loving wife,
Kathryn “Kate” Ties, Iowa City, IA;

his son,
Cooper Ties, Iowa City, IA;

his parents,
Ronald and Margaret Ties, Graf, IA;

2 brothers,
Ron (Regina) Ties, Raeford, NC
and Michael (Molly) Ties, Peosta, IA;

his father-in-law and mother-in-law,
Dennis and Mary Anne Barry, Dubuque, IA;

his in-laws,
Jay Brittan, Edgerton, WI,
Jennifer (Korey) Nadermann, Dubuque, IA
and James Barry, Dubuque, IA;

and his nieces and nephews,
Marissa (Liam) Czerniak, Olivia Brittan, Mackenzie Ties, Camron Ties, Ethan Ties, Addison Ties and Eli Ties.

Brian was preceded in death by his sister, Catherine Brittan; and his grandparents, Aloysius and Bertha Ties and Harold and Idell Long.

Brian’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for the outstanding care they provided for Brian.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Iowa City Boys Baseball.  The family will also thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Brian’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Brian Ties Family.

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

Irene A. VonTalge

Irene Anna VonTalge, 98, of Colesburg, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, at her home. She was born on September 26, 1924, in Clayton County, the daughter of George and Laura (Steinfadt) Blaker. Irene attended school in the Colesburg area and was a 1942 graduate of Colesburg High School. She received her normal training certificate. Irene taught country school in the Osterdock area.

On October 3, 1947, Irene was united in marriage to Keith VonTalge. Five children were born to this union. Irene was a homemaker and also helped out on the farm. She taught Sunday School and was a 4-H leader. Irene loved to bake and enjoyed quilting.

Survivors include her three children, Kevin VonTalge of Colesburg, Carla VonTalge of Colesburg, and Corliss (Randy) Brookhiser of Ottumwa; four grandchildren, Minda (Matthew) Pigman of Ames, Jennifer (Victor) Wilson of Johnstown, Colorado, Olivia (Matthew) Bennett of Ottumwa, and Lt. Colonel Joshua (Kathy) Brookhiser of Baker, Florida; several great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Keith in 1999; two daughters, Jane VonTalge and Vicki Kramer; three sisters, Laura Blaker in infancy, Beulah Tinkey, and Carole Clark; and sister-in-law, Elaine VonTalge.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Funeral Service:  11:00 a.m., on Monday, April 3, 2023, at Colesburg United Methodist Church in Colesburg, Iowa, with Rev. Roger White officiating.

Visitation:  10:00 to 11:00 a.m., on Monday, April 3, 2023, at Colesburg United Methodist Church in Colesburg, Iowa.

Interment:  Zion Cemetery, Colesburg, Iowa

Mary C. Meyer

Mary C. “Dolly” Meyer, age 90, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on March 29, 2023, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.  To honor Mary’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on April 25, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Albert and Theresa M. (Vogt) Becker.  She was first and foremost a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother.  Mary’s love for her family came in second to nothing in her world and the hours spent with her grandbabies were some of the most precious moments of her life.  Mary had met the love of her life, Alfred “Budda” Meyer when they were young and the couple was united in marriage on September 2, 1950.  Sadly Al was called home ahead of Mary on April 7, 2017, and her heart has been beyond broken with his absence ever since.  It brings all who knew and loved Mary some peace during this difficult time knowing that she is now reunited with her true-love, along with her other family members who have been awaiting her arrival.  Mary was a genuinely kind and generous woman who was always there to help out anyone in need.  Her heart was a big as her glowing smile and the positive impact she so effortlessly had on the world around her will surely live on in the hearts and minds of her loved ones.  Mary was a master when it came to baking, knitting, and sewing, but she also enjoyed a her flower gardens as much as she valued the opportunity to decorate for each season that came around.  We will miss our beloved Mary more than words could possibly articulate, but we are forever grateful for the 90 years the Lord was willing to share her with us.  Thank you, Mary, for leading by example in all of your words, thoughts, and actions and may your heavenly reunion you are experiencing now bring you the joy you have sought over these last years.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include,

her children,
Deb Baker,
Kris (Jeff) Hamel,
Daniel Meyer,
Julie (Dave) Cummings,
and Tressa (Dennis) George, all of Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Meggan (Ken) Miller,
Nick (Tara) Baker,
Hayley (Ben) McAuliffe,
Ben (Robin) Hamel,
Pete (Angie) Hamel,
Michael (Katie) Cummings,
Cassie (Dan) Wagner,
Zach George,
Allison (Bill) Hinton,
Alex (Ressie) George,
and Maddi (Kenny Hintz) George;

her eighteen great-grandchildren;

her sister-in-law,
Sylvia Park, Moline, IL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alfred “Budda”; her daughter, Cindy; Dan’s fiancé, Beth English, along with three brothers and one sister.

Mary’s family would like to thank Dr. Ries, along with the nurses and staff at Mercy, Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care and support.  We would also like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Mary’s special angel, Dan, for all of his devotion and commitment over the years with Mom.

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

Jean A. Knepper

Jean A. Knepper passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, in Dyersville at the age of 91.

Visitation will be held 2-7 p.m. Sunday, April 2, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville where a vigil service will be held at 1:30 pm.  Visitation will continue Monday from 9-10 am at the funeral home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 3, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville with burial in St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington.  Rev. Dan Knepper will officiate, and Rev. Chris Podhajsky will concelebrate.

Jean was born January 28, 1932, the first born of seven children to Joseph and Amalia “Molly” (Soppe) Besler and was raised on the family farm.  She married Michael Knepper on February 12, 1955, in Farley, Iowa.  Together they raised seven children on their family farm in Cascade until retirement when they moved to Dyersville.  Jean enjoyed bowling, golfing, playing cards, embroidery, and volunteering in her community.

Survivors include her husband, Michael, children: Julie (Randy) Olberding of Dyersville, Lynn (Dave) Clapsaddle of Akron, OH, Dean (Karen) Knepper of Dyersville, Mark Knepper of Evanston, IL, Alan (Dora Winter) Knepper of Denver, CO and, Sue (Tim) Menke of Denison, TX;  grandchildren: Jill (Tyler) Stenger, Beth Gravel, Benjamin Olberding, Megan (Tim) Schmidt, Christopher Carey, Kelly (Leon) Campbell, David Clapsaddle, Matt (Molly) Knepper, Emily Knepper (Mitchell Hildebrand), Eleanor, Mack, Sam, Charles Knepper, Holly (Aaron) Tucker, Nicholas and Michael Menke; 14 great grandchildren; siblings: Norma (Jim) Butcher, Verla (Pat) Horsfield, Helen (Dick) Schnier, Theresa Gulyash, and in-laws: Gladys Knepper, George Knepper, Joan Anstoetter and Ida Trumm.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Sara Knepper in infancy, siblings: Don (Mary) Besler, Shirley (Jim) Manternach, Steve Gulyash, and in-laws: Carl (Marie) Knepper, Irene (Ernie) Recker, Walter (Mary) Knepper, Helen (Francis) Carroll, Rosalyn (Edwin) Ludwig, Loras (Mary) Knepper, Alma Knepper, Paul Knepper, John Anstoetter, John Trumm.

In lieu of flowers and other expressions of sympathy, please make donations to Ellen Kennedy Living Center, 1177 – 7th St SW, Dyersville, Iowa.

Jean’s family wishes to thank all of her nurses, aides and Hospice of Dubuque for their tender and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com or send cards to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home 750 – 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, Iowa 52040.

Donna L. Jacobsmeier

Donna Lou (Brooks) Jacobsmeier of Dubuque, Iowa received her wings into eternal life with our Lord and Savior on March 28, 2023 surrounded by family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 1, 2023, at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. Andy Upah officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:45 p.m.

Donna, daughter of Robert and Eunice (Kartman) Brooks, was born on March 25, 1948, at Finley Hospital. She married the love of her life, Joseph Jacobsmeier on August 28, 1965 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

During Donna’s childhood, she loved waterskiing and roller skating. After marriage, Joe and Donna were foster parents for many years while raising their own children, Ron and Dawn.

Donna worked as a CNA in nursing homes and ran an in-home childcare through her younger years.

Later, she worked as a housekeeper in a local hotel. She earned her way up to Head of Housekeeping where she was an amazing leader and mentor/ role model to many young ladies. Some of whom she is still friends with today.

Joe and Donna loved camping, fishing, traveling to see waterfalls in Minnesota and Maine.

Some of their proudest moments, later in life, were helping to fundraise for the Veterans Memorial Plaza and volunteer for the food pantry.

Donna enjoyed every chance she could get to spend time with family and friends. She loved watching all the Grand and Great Grandchildren play and have fun.

Those of us that Donna left behind will miss her dearly. We will especially miss her smiles and warm hugs. Included are her son Ron Jacobsmeier and his Fiancé Sue Rudiger, and her daughter Dawn Knockel and boyfriend Jon Dudik. Her granddaughters Alyssa (Andrew) Schmidt, Linzy Knockel (Dillon Schaller), Emily (Christian) Jacobs, Natalie Jacobsmeier and Amanda Knockel. Step-grandsons, Tanner and Bryce Rudiger; great-grandchildren Hayden Jacobsmeier, Remington, Eli, Ivy and River Jacobs, Parker, Riley and Briggs Schmidt; her sister Barb Everland; brothers Ron (Judy) Brooks and Tom (Molly) Brooks; brother-in-law John (Judy) Jacobsmeier, along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Joe Jacobsmeier; her parents Robert and Eunice Brooks, father and mother-in-law Gregory and Mary Jacobsmeier; her brother Mark Brooks; brothers-in-law David Lamour, Bernard Jacobsmeier, and Jim Everland; sisters-in-law Bernice Williamson and Ginger (Agnes) Naderman and her grandmother Lela Kartman.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Dubuque Food Pantry in memory of Donna.

Many thank you Stonehill Care Center for their warm care; also to Donna’s favorite nurse Steve Day at Finley Hospital; and lastly to the University of Iowa Hospital for the amazing care over the years.

Doug W. Swift

Douglas W. “Doug” Swift, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on March 26, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque.  To honor Doug’s life, Celebrations of Life will be held in Iowa and New Hampshire at a later date.  Burial will be in the Hope Utah Cemetery in Galesburg, IL. and in the Cemetery on the Plain in Windham, N.H.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Doug’s family.

Doug was born on February 2, 1944, in Fall River, MA, a son to Lawrence B. and Elaine E. (Lepage) Swift.  After high school, Doug went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Air Force from 1962-1966.  When he had returned to civilian life, Doug eventually made his way into a career as a project manager for the Digital Equipment Corporation where he spent most of his working years and eventually retired in 2002.  He also enjoyed remodeling homes over the years and was proud to have built one of his own homes, as well as completing his final home to enjoy with Kristine by his side here in Dubuque.  Doug enjoyed traveling whenever possible and was quite content to finally retire to Naples, FL, when the time arrived.  He decided to keep himself busy on a part-time basis at the golf courses around the area all while enjoying the time and the people he met along the way.  Doug never met a stranger and his heart was a big as could be.  His kind and generous spirit was always on display and his positive attitude had the instant ability to turn anyone’s day around who crossed his path that day.  Doug was also a naturally gifted artist who enjoyed painting portraits of family and friends canine companions as well as blessing his family and friends with a custom made Christmas card each year.  Doug loved life, his family, and the opportunity to make the world a better place when the moments arose.  His legacy will surely live on for generations to come in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved him.  Our hearts possess an empty Doug shaped hole today, but we know and trust that in time, the abundance of memories which he leaves behind will help to heal those scars.  Thank you, Doug, for leading by example and may peace be yours now as we must wait patiently for our eternal reunion to eventually arrive in time.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Doug include,

the love of his life,
Kristine Smith, Dubuque, IA;

his adored children,
Samantha (Ron) Smith, East Bethel, MN,
Sidney Swift, Attleboro, MA,
Shawn Swift, Manchester, NH,
and Jennifer (Donald) Kessler, Barrington, NH;

his 5 grandchildren;

his 2 great-grandchildren,

his four brothers,
Ralph Swift, Crossville, TN,
Leslie (Rosemary) Swift, Port St. Lucie, FL,
Bryon (Joan) Swift, Madison, CT,
and William (Esperanza) Swift, Miami, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister-in-law, Connie Swift.

In honor of Doug’s love for dogs, memorials may be made in his name to the Dubuque Humane Society, 4242 Chavenelle Road, Dubuque, IA, 52002.

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

Sarah E. Pemsl

Sarah E. (Haas) Pemsl, 82, of Dubuque, died Sunday, March 26, 2023, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque surrounded by family.

A prayer service will be held 3:45 pm Monday, April 3, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sarah will be 10:00 am Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Sarah was born June 28, 1940 at home, on a farm, in Grant County, Wisconsin to Lawrence H. and Claribel E. (Schmelz) Haas.  She attended the Adrian one-room school house, and with her siblings walked two miles to school. She graduated from St. Andrews High School, Class of 1958, in Tennyson, Wisconsin.  After high school, she worked at Eastman Cartwright Lumber Company, Badger State Bank in Cassville, Wisconsin. and First National Bank in Dubuque, Iowa.

Sarah met the love of her life, George Pemsl, at the Melody Mill Dance Hall and later married George on June 20, 1964, at St. Charles Catholic Church in Cassville, Wisconsin. She became a homemaker and together they raised three beautiful daughters, Monica, Maria, and Gretchen.  Sarah was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She loved being with her family, especially her grandchildren.  Together they celebrated 58 years of marriage.

Sarah enjoyed a good game of cards with family or friends and games with her grandchildren. She enjoyed tending to her vegetable and flower gardens for many years. She was known for her green thumb and being able to nurse plants back to life. She spent much of her time cooking, baking and canning which brought much enjoyment to her friends and family. She mastered embroidery and crocheting as a young girl and spent many hours doing it as an adult. Her greatest recognition was winning first place at the 1976 Iowa State Fair for her workmanship on an embroidered quilt of the U.S. State birds.

Sarah was a member of the Nativity Catholic Church, Rosary Society, 60 Plus Group, and the Women of the Moose. She joined the Women of the Moose, Dubuque Chapter #850 in 1968, and was a life member.  She served the Chapter in all elected offices and was ­­Senior Regent from 1997 to 1998.  She received her College of Regents Degree at Mooseheart, IL in 2000.

Sarah is survived by her husband, George of Dubuque; daughters, Monica Reid (Greg Campbell), of St. Paul, MN, Maria Pemsl of Maplewood, MN, and Gretchen (Keith) Heiar of Dunlap, IL; six grandchildren, Lillian and Jacob Reid, Anna, Claire, Andrew and Joseph Heiar; brother, Jim Haas of Potosi, WI; and in-laws, David Pemsl and Ann (Jim) Lanser all of Dubuque, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Claribel (Schmelz) Haas; her second mother, Marie (Reding) Haas; father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Anna Pemsl; sister and brother-in-law, Patricia (Bill) Brindley; brother and sister-in-law, Joseph (Sharlene) Haas; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Mary Haas, Helen (Robert) Niday, Linda Pemsl, and son-in-law, Jeff Reid.

We would like to express our gratitude to the medical staff who cared for Sarah over the years. A special thank you to those who helped in her final weeks with us: MercyOne 3rd floor nurses and CNA’s, Drs. Menezes,  Rodriguez, Whalen, and Chris Stille, Johnson, Julie Ehlinger, Stonehill Communities and Hospice of Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert R. Robinson

Robert R. Robinson, 75, of Dubuque died Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at Luther Manor.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where a funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery where military rites will be accorded.

Robert was born May 20, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Leonard and Mae (Geske) Robinson.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1965.

Robert served in the US Air Force during the Viet Nam War. He was stationed in Southeast Asia, then Germany and England.

He married Ann Macreadie at Nativity Church on July 2, 1970.

Robert formerly worked for John Deere.

Robert was a loving husband, father and grandfather.  He enjoyed playing cards, fishing, and traveling to other countries.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Robinson of Dubuque; daughter, Lisa (Joseph) Tilp of Dubuque; son, Scott R. Robinson of Dubuque; grandchildren, Spenser, Jacob, Aaron, and Ethan Tilp; siblings, Wayne Robinson of Dubuque, Lee (Terri) Robinson of Cedar Rapids and Lynn Kirby of Dubuque; sister in law Marguerite Robinson; and brother in law, Samuel (Pat) Macreadie of England and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Gerald; half brother, James Robinson; half sister, Joann Robinson and brothers in law, John Macreadie and Gerald Kirby.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Manor and a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care.

Mark A. Langkamp

Mark Alfred Langkamp, 86, of West Lafayette, IN, passed away March 14, 2023, at University Place nursing home, in West Lafayette. He was born on August 15, 1936 in Platteville, WI, to John and Germaine (Schmitz) Langkamp and was one of 15 children. He was a graduate of Potosi High School in Potosi, WI, in a graduating class of 5 students. He then joined the navy and spent 2 years aboard the USS Kawishiwi. Following his discharge, he attended and graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville with a Bachelor’s Degree.

Mark married the love of his life Ann Elizabeth (Leibfried) on June 18, 1960. They shared over 62 years together, raising their family in Wisconsin and then Glen Ellyn, IL, before moving to West Lafayette in 1982. For nearly 30 years, Mark worked in agricultural chemical sales with the Ciba-Geigy (Syngenta) Corporation. Mark was a devout parishioner at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament in West Lafayette, a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus, a member of the Elk’s Club, and a passionate golfer. Mark always loved getting out in the yard to play with his kids and grandkids.

Mark is survived by his sons Steve (Mandi) Langkamp and Greg (Laura) Langkamp; daughter Terri (Jay) Mathews; and grandsons Caleb Langkamp, Hendrik Langkamp, and John Mathews. Also surviving Mark are his five sisters Rose Galle, Jeannette (Greg) Pehler, Marilyn (Francis) Ihm, Donna (Dick) Williams, and Velma Burke; and seven brothers Joe (Sally) Langkamp, Jerry (Carole) Langkamp, John “Sonny” (Ruth) Langkamp, Jim (Kay) Langkamp, David Langkamp, Dennis (Cyndi) Langkamp, and Carl Langkamp.

In addition to his parents, Mark was preceded in death by his wife Ann who passed in 2022; brother LaVerne Langkamp; sister Virginia Becker; and brothers-in-law Bill Galle, Dave Becker and Doug Burke.

Robert R. Morehead

Robert R. Morehead, 72, of Elwood, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 24, 2023, at home.

Robert Ray Morehead was born on July 25, 1950 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Claire and Geraldine (Shady) Morehead.  He was a 1968 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  He married Carla Jean Allison on June 25, 2000 in Elwood, Iowa.

Robert had first worked as the store manager at Thiesen’s in Maquoketa.  He then worked for John Cressey Construction, R & R Sports, Wendling Quarry, and lastly for Sheets Construction until retirement.  He had also been a self-employed carpenter for many years.

Robert was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman, as well as a loyal and devoted fan of both the Chicago Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes.  Additionally, he enjoyed bowling, woodworking, playing horseshoes, and entertaining in his home bar.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Carla Morehead of Elwood, IA; children, Michelle (Mike) Metts of Pleasant Hill, IA, Christina (and fiancé Chris Garrels) Lebeck of Eldridge, IA, and James (Lacey) Morehead of Bettendorf, IA; a sister, Dixie (Ed) Johnson of Maquoketa, IA; 7 grandchildren, Hope, Grace, Carah, Hayden, Noah, Nadiya, and Hunter; mother-in-law, Joyce Allison of Elwood, IA; several nieces and nephews; and his dogs, Maddy Jo and Jackson T.  He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Barbara, and a son-in-law Mark Lebeck.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Saturday, April 1, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 9:30 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. on Saturday prior to the service at the funeral home.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Robert R. Morehead memorial fund has been established.

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

Lois A. Hanson

Lois Ann Hanson, 93, of Dubuque, died Saturday, March 25, 2023, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, March 30, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Lois will be 10:00 am Friday, March 31, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Lois was born June 18, 1929, in Waukon, the daughter of Joseph and Matilda Waldron Walsh. On July 30, 1951, she married Harold R. Hanson in Waukon.  He died October 24, 2015.

Lois was a homemaker.  She previously worked in the school system for the lunch program.  She was also a bartender at  Jack’s Tap.

She was a member of a bowling league.  Lois enjoyed playing euchre and cooking, her specialty was beer battered fried chicken.  Her greatest joy was taking care of her family.

Survivors include three sons, Randy (Karen) Hanson of Dubuque, Dan (Beth) Hanson of Brentwood, TN, and Jim Hanson of Dubuque; one daughter-in-law, Rosie Hanson of Dubuque; grandchildren, Keri (Kent), Cory (Sara), Kyle (Diana),  Bill (Jess), Joe (Calcie), Kristie (Zack), Amanda, Sarah, and Bryce; Great-grandchildren, Emma, Ben, Letty, Ellis, and Penelope; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her son, Ron Hanson;  three brothers, Francis, Jack and Kenny; six sisters, Lucille, Margaret, Dorothy, Marie, Lorraine and Jeannie;  and two siblings in infancy.

A special thank you to the staff at Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeremiah.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the Alzheimer’s Association and Hospice of Dubuque.

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