Obituaries Archive

Eileen T. Tegeler Olberding

Eileen Theresa Tegeler Olberding, 89 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. on Friday, January 27, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with funeral services to follow at 2:30 p.m.  Burial will be in the church cemetery with Rev. Chris Podhajsky officiating.

Eileen was born December 2, 1933, in Dyersville, Iowa, the daughter of Ulrich “Ole” and Eugenia “Gene” (Milbert) Tegeler.  She graduated from St. Francis Xavier School in 1951.

Eileen met her future husband, Robert “Bob” Olberding at the Xavier Auditorium roller skating rink.  They were married on July 17, 1954, in Dyersville.  He preceded her in death on May 20, 1992, after 37 years of marriage.

Shortly after marriage, her husband, Bob was drafted into the service and they moved to Lawton, OK where Eileen worked at a hospital switchboard.  In 1956, they returned to Dyersville where Eileen began working at the Iowa Telephone & Telegraph office making .50 cents an hour.  With her first savings, Eileen bought a sewing machine and with her second, she bought her parents a TV!  Later when the company moved to Grinnell in 1983, she and Bob moved with it.  After 37 years with the company, she retired, and the couple moved back to Dyersville.  While in the Dyersville area, Eileen was known as an excellent bowler and golfer.  She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, the American Legion Auxiliary, Dyersville Women’s Bowling Association, the Historical Society, Hospital Auxiliary and Friends of the Library.

Survivors include her son, Michael (Fiance, Barb Olson) Olberding of Dyersville, in-laws: Donald (Darlene) Olberding, Marge Olberding and Janice Tegeler, all of Dyersville, and many Tegeler and Olberding nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert, her parents, siblings: Larry and Conrad (Jeanette) Tegeler, Kathleen (Donald) Joester,and many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to thank the staff at MercyOne Senior Care and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

Robert J. Williamson

Robert J. “Rob” Williamson, 58, of Monticello died Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at home.

A visitation will be held from 11 am – 1 pm Monday, January 30, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello where a memorial service will commence at 1 pm.  Rev. Dave Raemisch will officiate.  Burial will be at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel, Iowa at a later date.

Rob was born March 7, 1964, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Robert and Donna (Nieman) Williamson.  Growing up he earned the rank of Star in Boy Scouts.  He graduated from Lisbon High School with the Class of 1982, and joined the US Army 2 weeks after graduation.  His career in the army was as a Finance Technician.  (1982 – 2010). While in the Army Rob married Tammy Baldwin June 18, 1994, and later divorced.

Rob participated in baseball, football and wrestling in high school.  In the army Rob wrestled Freestyle and Greco and was invited to the Army team training camp.  After his competition days were over, he became a Wrestling Official with the Iowa USA Wrestling, eventually becoming the Officials Director of Iowa.  His favorite part of wrestling was working with the young wrestlers and watching them grow in their skillset and celebrating their successes at state and national levels.

Rob was an enjoyable character with the people he came in contact with.  Laughter and loudness came from him when he entered.  Rob brought loud passion to any competition from athletics to quiz bowl to family reunions.  (He was a key member of the Lisbon Quiz Bowl Conference Champs 1982.)

Rob’s personality made people laugh with him.  As an adult, Rob’s character would appear just like a teenage boy: too loud in the lunchroom.  His friends, referee colleagues, and family enjoyed Rob’s energy.   Rob was not an extraverted person which may surprise many; when around his friends and family he could bring out the character that made everyone love him and laugh with him. He was known for his great sense of humor.

Surviving are his mother, Donna Joslin of Monticello, his father, Bob (Louise) Williamson of Pearland, TX; siblings: Scott (Cathy) Williamson of Oskaloosa, IA, Shawn (Lori) Williamson of La Marque, TX and Sharla (Bruce) Chenoweth of Eagan, MN; nephews, Gable (Hailey) Williamson of Norwalk, IA and Tyler Hatfield of Alvin, TX; ex-wife Tammy Baldwin; step-children, Sienna Cave and Astin Baldwin; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, August and Mildred Nieman and paternal grandparents, John and Lillian Williamson, 1 aunt and 4 uncles.

Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, Iowa 52310.

Tammy Brandenburg

Tammy Brandenburg, 52, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 5:45 pm Friday, January 27, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Tammy will be 6:00 pm Friday, January 27, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with  Deacon Dave Roth officiating. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery in Farley at a later date.

Tammy was born June 22, 1970, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Patricia Weipert. She graduated from Central High School in 1990. Tammy met the love of her life, Jeff “Ned” Fox, in 1997. She worked for Andersen Windows & Doors. Tammy loved time spent with Jeff and her faithful companion, Gunner. She also enjoyed tending to her flower garden and time spent at the Dubuque Boat Club.

Survivors include her mother, Patricia (Lenny) Weipert of Dubuque, the love of her life, Jeff “Ned” Fox of Dubuque and his daughter, Jenny Fox and her daughter, Jordyn of Aurora, IL, her brother, Cory (Vickie) Brandenburg of West Branch, IA, nephews and niece, Michael (Emily) Brandenburg, Mikaela Brandenburg, and Quentin Kelley.

The family would like to express a special Thank You to Dr. Whalen and her care team at the University of Iowa Hospital.

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

Brian Cathman

Brian “Porky” Cathman, 56, of Lancaster, Wisconsin, passed away early Sunday morning on January 22, 2023, at Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster, surrounded by his family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday January 27, 2023, at St. Clement’s Church, 135 S Washington St, in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Per Porky’s wishes, there will be no visitation. His request was to have a funeral mass and blessing of his cremated remains. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, IA, is assisting the family.

Porky was born on February 16, 1966, in Prairie du Chien, son of Darrell and Rita (Reuter) Cathman. He graduated from Lancaster High School in 1984 and Southwest Wisconsin Technical College in Fennimore, WI in 1987. Porky enjoyed his occupation as an over the road truck driver with Zimmerman Transfer out of Dodgeville, and he was grateful to them for their compassion and understanding after he was diagnosed with cancer.  Porky enjoyed spending his off-time at his farm, where he enjoyed hunting and time with family and friends; he had an amazing ability to make people laugh – right up to the end of his fight!  His contagious laugh and huge personality will live on in everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

Porky is survived by his mother Rita (Donny) Pennekamp of Lancaster, sister Susie Kalupa (Joe) of Ripon, nieces and nephews Ryan, Kelly, and Kera Ripon, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Darrell in February 2001.

Marian F. Brade-Kelly

Marian Faye Brade-Kelly, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 21, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center after a long, graceful battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

A Funeral Home Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 26, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Marian was born on June 6, 1938, daughter of Lee and Helen (Genszler) Henkel. She was an Associate of the Sisters of Saint Francis where she worked until retirement.

Mom was a sassy, spirited lady who loved shopping, working puzzles, and spending time with her family. She had great love for her children, but her grandchildren and great-grandchildren had a special place in her heart. She will forever be “Crazy Grandma”.

Marian was kind and adored by the entire staff at Stonehill.

Marian is survived by her children Cynthia (Jerome) Welsh, Cheryle Brade, Leonard “Butch” (Terina) Brade, Don (Debbie) Brade, Amy (Ed) Breitsprecker, and James Brade; Grandchildren Stephanie (Michael) Kane, Andy (Laura) Brade, Ben (Jennifer) Brade, Brandon Feickert, Alicia (Martin) Ennor, Rebecca Brade, Tori Brade, Kristin (Julian) Kay, Daniel (Cody) Breitsprecker, and Eric Breitsprecker.; 24 Great-grandchildren, and 3 Great-great grandchildren; Siblings Joy White, Jim (Madonna) Henkel, Gary (Connie) Henkel, Dick (Judy) Henkel, Bob Henkel, and Chuck (Pitsie) Henkel.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lee and Helen Henkel, siblings Helyn, Gail, Jeanne, Sandra, and Lee and her favorite cat, Mugsy.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to all of the caregivers at Stonehill for your gentle care provided to Mom in these recent years. Memorials may be donated to Stonehill Care Center in Marian’s name.

Kenneth J. Link

Kenneth J. Link, age 82, of Dubuque Iowa, died on Saturday, January 21, 2023, of complications of a stroke at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 on Friday, January 27th, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. Burial to follow at Linwood Cemetery with military honors by the Iowa Army National Guard and presentation of the Four Fives by the Dubuque Fire Department.

Ken was born on July 21, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Reuben and Irene (Richard) Link. He graduated from St. Columbkille’s School.

Ken was united in marriage to Diane Rohner, in a union that lasted 35 years. He later married Sandy Conzett, in November of 2003. They had a love that rivaled even the greatest of love stories.

Ken began his career with the City of Dubuque Police Force, later transferring to the City of Dubuque Fire Department. During both tenures, Ken drove school bus for the Dubuque Community School District until his retirement. His service to others lasted over a span of 45 years.

Ken served in the United States Army with an honorable discharge on June 30, 1963 and continued his service with the Army Reserve for an additional five years.

Ken was the most loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all, and he made an impact on everyone he met. His unconditional love, service, and dedication to helping others will never be forgotten.

Ken enjoyed playing games of all sorts, including euchre, board games, horseshoes, Yahtzee, bean bags, and cards of all sorts (including a made-up game of “Scrump” with his own rules to ensure he always won). Ken also loved fishing, boating, and camping with family and friends, and watching his favorite teams, including the Detroit Lions, Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Cincinnati Reds (especially Pete Rose and his memorabilia). In his younger years he was an avid baseball player and played for various teams and was known as a great pitcher.  He was a boy scout leader, an altar boy at Sacred heart church, and later an active member of St. Mary’s Church. Ken was a man of faith and honor, always putting the needs of others before his own. He was deeply loved by all, and memories with him will never be forgotten.

Ken is survived by his wife, Sandy Link (his baby), son Greg (Luann) Link, daughter Shelley Huseman (Bob), son Brian (Carol) Link, daughter, Renee (Tim) Frith, daughter Jill Mueller, son Brandon (Krissy) Mueller, son Andy (Jenny) Mueller, and son Erik (Trisha) Mueller. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Kenny, Matt, Carter, Krista (Cody), Nate, Tyler (Aileen), Vince, Rachel (Matt), Katie, Taylor (Al), Timmy, and great grandchildren Autumn, Ethan, Leo, Kaden, Rylan, Nash, Alayna, Porter, Levi, and Holly. He is also survived by his former wife Diane (Al) Bahl, many special nieces and nephews, his beloved dog Walker, and several other loving family members and friends.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Irene Link, brother Lyle (Nellie) Link, sister Helen (Jim) Kelleher.

Thank you to Dubuque Fire EMS, Finley Hospital ER, and the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics ICU and Palliative Care staff, especially Ann, who was with Ken and family during his final moments.

In leu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Ken’s honor.

Robert R. Oglesby

Robert R. Oglesby, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on January 22, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque.  In memory of Robert’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, January 27, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street, with Father Herb Pins officiating.  Family and friends are invited to visit in fellowship one hour prior to Holy Mass at St. Patrick Church.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Robert’s family.

Robert was born on August 3, 1950, in Dubuque, IA, one of thirteen children to Clarence C. and Catherine M. (Huber) Oglesby.

He spent the majority of his working years as a handyman, but Bobby was best known for his simple way of life and love for riding his bike around town.  He was a talented and gifted artist, had a big heart where animals were involved, and he loved to cook. Robert had a natural gift for gab and visiting with family and friends was always a welcome way to pass the time.  We will miss Robert and his gentle soul. May we have faith and hope to find peace eventually within the abundance of memories that he leaves behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Robert include his four children, Peggy Joe, Bobbie, Jennifer, and Kristy Jo; and his fourteen grandchildren; his brother Harold (Ann) Oglesby, Dubuque, IA; and his sisters Darlene Oglesby, Dubuque, IA, Mary Oglesby, Dubuque, IA, and Margaret Oglesby, Dubuque, IA; and sister-in-law, Carol Oglesby, Dubuque, IA; and his numerous nieces and nephews; along with many extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Gordon Oglesby, Larry Oglesby and his wife Shirley, Bill Oglesby, John Oglesby, Richard Oglesby, Frank Oglesby, and his sisters Marilyn Thomas, and Patricia Leytem; his two-year-old child, Billy Jo; and his nephew, Michael Oglesby, and his nieces Debbie Cashman and Jackie Fitzgibbons.

Robert’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care. Many thanks to Emily Vorwald.

Thank you, Bobby, for continually reminding us to keep life simple.

May The Lord bless thee and keep thee. The Lord show his face to thee, and have mercy on thee. The Lord turn his countenance to thee, and give thee peace.

In lieu of flowers please consider The Robert Oglesby Memorial Fund to be used for a series of 30 Holy Masses, known as Gregorian Masses. Robert Oglesby Memorial, PO Box 3306, Dubuque, IA 52004

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

Betty A. Casanova

Betty A. Casanova, age 83, of Galena, Illinois, passed away at 6:00 p.m., on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at the Galena Nursing Home.  To honor Betty’s life, family and friends may visit from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., on Friday, January 27, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Friday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be at a later date following cremation in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Betty was born on August 18, 1939, in Galena, Illinois, daughter of Robert and Clara (Schmid) Blum.

Betty attended school in Galena where she graduated from Galena High School.  She started working for the family business, Blum Bottling Works, when she was young.  She was married to William Davis and they had a son together before deciding to go their separate ways.  She later married Joseph Casanova on July 23, 1997, in Dubuque.  They spent 9 wonderful years together until Joe sadly passed away on July 31, 2006.  Betty was employed with Eaton Controls in Hanover, Illinois and later went to work with Palace Campgrounds for 20 years.  She also worked and volunteered her time with the Jo Daviess County Workshop.  Betty will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Betty’s memory include

her son,
Eric Davis, Galena, IL;

and her sister,
Marie (Robert) Nelson, Rockford, IL.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph Casanova; and a brother, Charles Blum.

Betty’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Galena Nursing Home and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care they provided for Betty.

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

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

Dorothy L. Layde

Dorothy Lavonne Layde, 85, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin, passed away Saturday, January 21, 2023. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 26, 2023, at St. Rose of Lima Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call from 10-10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church prior to the service. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Dorothy was born on June 4, 1937, in Mt. Hope, Wisconsin, the daughter of Fred and Mabel Updike. On January 14, 1956, she married Thomas Layde, her devoted and loving husband of 67 years.

Dorothy was a loving mom who devoted her life to her children and husband. Her passion was her crafts. She and Tom could be seen at many of the craft fairs throughout the Tri States. She also loved spending time with her family, especially getting together for birthday parties. Dorothy also had a soft spot in her heart for any animal but especially her two cats, Callie and Lacey.

Dorothy is survived by her husband, Tom; a daughter, Cindy; three grandchildren, Jodi (Travis) VanNatta, Scott (Diliana) Layde, and Jeff (Jolene) Layde; a daughter-in-law, Bonnie Layde Burbach; and ten great-grandchildren, Talan, Trevor, Gavin and Grayson VanNatta; Dejanada, Delilah and Ender Layde; and Zoey, Zane and Jerzey Layde, all of whom she loved dearly.

She was preceded in death by her two sons, Francis “Pep” Layde and Tommy Layde, who were the world to her; and two brothers, Billy Updike and Carlos Updike.

The family wishes to thank the staffs of Promedica and MercyOne.

In lieu of flowers, a Dorothy L. Layde Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI 53807.

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

Joyce E. Watters

Joyce E. Watters, 74, of Peosta, IA passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, at Finley Hospital following a sudden illness.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 25, 2023 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Mike Jones officiating. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until time of service at the funeral home on Wednesday.

Joyce was born on March 29, 1948, in Dubuque the daughter of George and Ruth (Humke) Hodgson. She attended the University of Dubuque. On December 4, 1971, she married William “Bill” Watters at Grandview United Methodist Church.

Joyce had a 44 year career as a proof reader, working for William C. Brown, Times Mirror, and McGraw Hill Publishing. She was an active member of Rockdale United Methodist Church and participated in many church functions and events. She also volunteered at the Dubuque County Fair for 20 years and always enjoyed the Wednesday Night Dances. She loved to read, do crossword puzzles, go out to eat, and take Sunday drives, but the thing she enjoyed most was quilting. She worked with the ladies quilting at Rockdale and also made many Honor Quilts for Veterans.

She is survived by her husband Bill; 2 sisters Sharon Holverson of Boscobel, WI, and Ginny (Fred) Base of Eau Claire, WI, 2 brothers Glenn (Barb) Hodgson of Dubuque and Bill (Judy) Hodgson of Minneapolis, MN. Along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law Roger Holverson.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Rockdale United Methodist Church in Joyce’s name.

A special thank you to the Dubuque County Sherriff’s Department and to Centralia Peosta Fire Department for all their efforts and care they provided for Joyce.

Allen R. Schnoor

Allen R. Schnoor, 67, of Maquoketa Iowa, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023.

Allen was born September 16, 1955 to Allen Schnoor and Edna (Heeren) Schnoor. He was a 1973 graduate of Maquoketa High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Helen Caes, on January 4, 1974 in Elkader, Iowa and enjoyed 49 years of marriage together. They raised four children; Tred, Craig, Brandy, and Jed.

Allen and Helen were lifelong farmers who raised cattle and crops north of Maquoketa and took pride in stewarding their land and keeping good fences.  Although Allen would say the best crop he ever raised were his four children.

Allen volunteered in many organizations throughout his life.  In particular, he was a 4-H leader for the Emeline Ridge Rollers, a member of the Jackson County Cattlemen, a Farmers Creek Township Trustee, and delivered for Meals-on-Wheels.  He was also a proud lifetime member of the National Rifle Association and was an ardent supporter of our second amendment rights.

Allen’s favorite pastimes included spending time with family and friends. He loved watching his grandchildren participate in sports, music, drama and community activities.  Grandpa would always try to be there for his grandkids.  Allen also enjoyed the outdoors, especially deer hunting, fishing, canoeing, mushrooming and making wonderful memories at the family campground.  Allen also really enjoyed playing cards with all his card buddies.  During retirement Allen and Helen enjoyed traveling extensively – especially their lifelong dream vacation to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji.

Those left to honor Allen’s memory include wife Helen, son Tred (Rebekah) Schnoor of Monticello, son Craig (Katie) Schnoor of Maquoketa, daughter Brandy (Jamison) Schurbon of Ely, and son Jed (Allison) Schnoor of Martelle; ten grandchildren: Lake, Mace, Roth & Rynn Schnoor, Quinn & Avery Schnoor, Brooke & Paige Schurbon, and Emily & Abbie Schnoor; brothers Roger (Pat) Schnoor of Monmouth & Lynn Schnoor of Maquoketa; sister Linda Grobstick of Maquoketa; aunt Fern Schoenthaler of Maquoketa; sisters and brothers-in-law Delores Current of Monmouth, Gloria (John) Caven of Maquoketa and Ken Weimerskirch of Maquoketa; and numerous nieces, nephews & cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Edna Schnoor.

Allen never knew a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone.  We hope to live up to this part of his character and ask that all family & friends attend the visitation and/or a celebration of his life.  The celebration of Allen’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, January 26, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa followed by a luncheon at the Eagles Club in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, January 25, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation will follow the visitation.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Allen R. Schnoor memorial fund has been established.

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

Monica M. Besler

Monica M. Besler, 89, of Worthington died Saturday, January 21, 2023, at Mercy One Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11am Wednesday January 25, 2023, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington, where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11 am.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery.

Monica was born April 23, 1933, in Monticello the daughter of Alphonse and Margaret (Felton) Demmer.  She was raised        on the family farm southwest of Worthington.  She graduated from St. Paul School.  She met Jerome Besler at a dance and they married on August 27, 1952, in Worthington, Iowa. Together they lived and farmed on the Demmer Family Farm.

Survivors include one son, Donald of Worthington, a brother, Vernon (special friend Sandy Hefel) Demmer of Dubuque; in-laws, Alice Besler and Louis (Janice) Besler, both of Worthington and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, in-laws: Lila Mae (Joe) Sperfslage, Norma (John) Rave, Mary Lee Demmer, Bob and Donald Besler.

Memorials are preferred.

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.

Jodene Jorgensen

Jodene (Jody) Jorgensen (Hansen), 62, of Davenport, IA, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at her home.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

Jodene Lynn was born on November 12, 1960, in Savanna, IL, to Lyle and Pearl (Caraway) Hansen. Jody and Don met in 1985 and very soon after were engaged to be married. They were married on March 21, 1987. Don worked as a Civilian for the U.S. Army. Jody accompanied Don to Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, where they stayed until the spring of 1989. Don was transferred to Akizuki, Japan, and they could travel and see much of Japan while they were there until the spring of 1991. The next assignment was to the Rock Island Arsenal, so they settled in Davenport.

Jody spent several years babysitting one great-nephew and three great-nieces and babysitting for her nieces while they worked from the time they were born until they started school.

She enjoyed ceramics and loved being close to her family and attending family gatherings.

Survivors include her husband, Don; brother John Hansen; brothers/sisters-in-law, Dean and Debbie Jorgensen, Doyle Jorgensen and Jean Paisley; eight nieces, one nephew; five great-nieces; six great-nephews’ one great-great nephew, brothers and sisters-in law, Dean and Debbie Jorgensen, Doyle Jorgensen and Jean Paisley.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Connie Hackett.

Family and friends are invited to share memories and express condolences on her Memory Wall at mvcremation.com.

Loretta J. Lucy

Loretta Jane Lucy was born at home in East Dubuque, Illinois on December 15, 1941, where she was a lifetime resident.  She was one of 5 children born to William N. Lucy and Loretta A. (McHale) Lucy.  She went to her heavenly home on Saturday January 14, 2023, from an apparent heart attack. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque on Saturday February 4, 2023 at 11:00a.m. with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation is from 9:30-10:45 a.m. at the church.  The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Loretta was a graduate of East Dubuque High School class of 1959.  She worked 40 years as a Certified Nurses Aid retiring from Mt. Carmel Convent in 2006.  After her retirement she frequently volunteered at the Convent along with her sister Irene.   Loretta was a Lifetime member of the Dubuque American Legion Auxiliary Unit 6.  She enjoyed serving lunch at the Dubuque Rescue Mission with friends from KFXB TV Station. Loretta was a member of the Full Moon Floozies club and an enthusiastic  volunteer for the East Dubuque High School Reunions.

Some of Loretta’s favorite activities were reading, coloring in her coloring book, attending concerts plays and musicals, crocheting prayer shawls for St. Mary’s church and doing seek and find puzzles.  Loretta and her sister Irene attended many country festivals, Jim McDonough Concerts and Fighting Saints Hockey games.  She loved sitting on her front porch reading and greeting her neighbors, people were naturally drawn to Loretta.  She learned from her brother Bill how to enjoy every holiday in East Dubuque from Memorial Day to Wingfest and Fireworks.  She carried on her mother’s tradition by serving lunch for family and friends after the Memorial Day Parade. She was the official nurse and babysitter for all of her nieces and nephews, spoiling all of them.

Loretta is survived by her brother Nick and Linda Lucy and sister Irene and Don Kaukaskie. Her Neices and Nephews; Cheryl and Bryan Symons, Michael Kaukaskie, Michele and Kevin Dague, Vicki and Doug Reynolds, Rhonda and Amir Kahn, Laura and David Ilan, Eric and Linda Lucy, Christine Lucy, Keith and Annette Lucy, Melissa and Ian Gardener and Karen Juergens a special friend and family member.

Preceding her in death are her parents, sister Sandra Vaughn, brother-in-law Fred Vaughn, brother William (Bill) Lucy and nephew Dale Kaukaskie.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established or memorial may be sent to St. Mary’s Church East Dubuque, or Dubuque American Legion Auxiliary Unit 6 at 1306 Delhi St. Dubuque, IA 52001.

Loretta was everything you could want in a daughter, sister aunt and friend. We will truly miss her.

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

Geraldine M. Goodman

Geraldine (Geri) M. Goodman, 88, of 2700 Matthew John Drive, died Wednesday, January 18, at home.

Visitation will be at St. Columbkille, Dubuque, IA, from 9:30-10:45 AM, Friday, January 27, with a funeral mass celebrated at 11 AM. The cremains will be interred at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of the arrangements.

She was a consummate musician, having played her first professional gig at age eight and her last at 85.

She was born April 29, 1934, in Dubuque County, daughter of Ray and Salome (Walsh) Hanten. She married Thomas G. Goodman on August 17, 1957, at St. Columbkille Church.

Surviving is one son, Tom (JoAnn), of Dubuque; three daughters, Teri (Dave) Abbott, of St. Paul, MN; Tori (Dave) Richter and Cathy, of Dubuque; eight grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, and four siblings and their spouses: one sister, Mellita (Bob) Pommerich of Dubuque, and three brothers: Loras (Pat) and Dan (Barb) Hanten of Dubuque and Gene Hanten of Lodi California.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Geraldine M. Goodman memorial fund.