Obituaries Archive

Lois E. Ronek

Lois E. Ronek, age 95, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on June 30, 2025, at Luther Manor while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Lois’ life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Lois’ family.

Lois was born on March 27, 1930, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Robert and Ella (Thompson) Waller.  She was gifted with an energetic spirit and a drive and determination to get the most out of each day.  Lois was united in marriage to the love of her life, Charles Ronek and the two were blessed with many children to raise under their love and care.  Sadly, Charles was called home ahead of Lois in the July of 1969.

Lois possessed a strong work ethic which never wavered.  She faithfully devoted her time and talents with Clinton Engines and Carrigan’s, before finally spending her last years as a seamstress with Rite Hite before moving into retirement.  Lois made many friends along the way and always gave her best with every task she was given.  In her free-time, Lois rarely sat down, but when she did, you could usually find her sitting comfortably in her favorite chair with Lawrence Welk on the TV and her trusty crochet needles working vigorously in her productive hands.  Lois was blessed with 95 years among us and the memories she leaves behind are both beautiful and abundant.  We are forever grateful for all of the love she so generously shared with the world around her and now only wait patiently to see her beautiful smile once again.  Thank you, Lois, for keeping life simply, reminding us that each day is what you make of it, and may you find eternal peace now as you are reunited with all of your loved one’s who’ve been called home before you.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Lois include,

her children,
Al (Nancy) Ronek, Bradenton, FL,
Donna (Robert) Steines, Dubuque, IA,
Wayne (Colleen) Ronek, TN,
Shirley Blakenship, Belgrade, MT,
Norma Ronek, Dubuque, IA,
and Thomas Ronek, IA;

her 18 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren;

her sister-in-law,
Donna Cummings, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Lorraine (Justin) Ronek, Joyce (James) Cartmill, Helen (Frank) Hedrick, Donald (Kay) Waller, and Ralph Cummings.

Lois’ family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Gary L. Koeller

Gary L. Koeller, age 82, of Potosi, WI, completed his earthly journey suddenly on June 30, 2025, at the Lancaster Nursing Home.  Per Gary’s request, there will be no public services.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gary’s family.

Gary was born on March 29, 1943, in Potosi, WI, a son to Harold and Virginia (Meyer) Koeller.  He was a proud member of the 32nd Division National Guard and honorably served his country throughout his years.  Gary faithfully devoted his time at talents at John Deere Dubuque Works and eventually moved into retirement in 1994.  Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing in his free-time and always found joy in building his bird houses and placing them around the Potosi area.  He was a good and decent man who loved his family, friends and community.  We will miss Gary until we meet again and seek peace and comfort within the memories he leaves behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Gary include,

his loving wife,
Sandra (Peake) Koeller, Potosi, WI;

his son,
Jeff (Jody) Koeller, Potosi, WI;

his adored grandchildren,
Jacy Koeller, Boynton Beach, FL,
Jordan Koeller, Denver, CO,
and Jade (Mike) Loehe, Edgerton, WI;

his great-grandchildren,
Trey and Jace Loehe;

his sisters,
Sharon Bierman, Potosi, WI,
and Bonnie (Bruce Wackershauser) Dailey, Glen Haven, WI;

his brother,
David (Phyllis) Koeller, Tiffin, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Dennis Koeller.

Gary’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Lancaster Nursing Home for their compassionate care.

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

Mary Jane Martin

Mary Jane “Boots” Martin, 88 of Key West, Iowa passed away on Saturday, June 28th, 2025 at River Bend Assisted Living in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Additional visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 Wednesday July 2, 2025, at Saint Joseph Key West with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Boots was born on February 16, 1937, in Key West, IA, the daughter of Clem and Regina (Shannon) Welsh. She attended Saint Joseph Key West Grade School and later graduated from the Visitation Academy in 1955. On December 1, 1956, she married William Francis “Frank” Martin at Saint Joseph Catholic Church and together they shared 68 years together.

Along with raising her family she worked for several Dubuque businesses doing book work including the Oakland Farms Dairy and Merri-Mac Distributing. She and Frank enjoyed dancing together with the Gold Rush Square Dancers, and their trip to Alaska in the RV. She also enjoyed her flower garden, doing crafts and quilting, and woodworking.

She is survived by her husband Frank; her three sons: Terrance (Brenda), Brian (Linda), and Keith (Ruth) Martin; her son-in-law Gerald (Bobbie) Scherrman; her grandchildren: Jennifer (Austin Monaghan) Martin, Daniel (Katherine) Martin, David (fiancé Ali) Martin, William (Marti) Martin, Samuel (fiancé Shelby) Martin, Zachary Martin, Justin (Kassi) Scherrman, Jacob (Ashley) Scherrman, Adam Hoffman and Ashley Carey; great grandchildren: Chloe and Ella Scherrman, Tel Martin, Case Martin, Sayven and Crue Spidle, and one more on the way.

She is also survived by her sister Carolyn (Carl) Moyer; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Margie Welsh, Betty Payne, Rose Mary Kremer, Raymond “Loras” and Josephine Martin and Charlie and Donna Martin.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter Cynthia Jean Scherrman on July 28, 1996; a granddaughter Jessica Martin; her sister Geraldine (Paul) Ryan and her brother Donald Welsh. Her father and mother-in-law Mike and Elizabeth Martin, along with Jack Payne, Louie Martin, John and Joan Martin, and  Earl “Pete” Kremer, her niece Kenna Payne, and her nephew Kevin Kremer.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Bend along with Hospice of Dubuque for all the care they have given to Boots.

Ardell Till

Mary V. Walsh

Mary Virginia “Ginger Walsh, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 27, 2025, at Mount Carmel Bluffs surrounded by friends and family.

According to her wishes, no visitation or formal service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road in Dubuque is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com.

Ginger was born on December 27, 1930, in Dubuque, Iowa. She was the daughter of William E. “Bill” and Mary E. (Sampica) Martens. She attended St. Patrick’s grade school and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in 1948. She worked at Key City Gas Company until her marriage to Mark M. Walsh on June 27, 1952. In 1976, she started a “part-time” evening job at CyCare Systems in Dubuque, which turned into a full-time career lasting over 16 years. During that time, she met so many wonderful and talented coworkers, and those coworkers turned into her extended family – many of whom remained very close personal friends with her to this day. After retiring, she enjoyed playing golf again, along with playing and hosting “Euchre Club” and was an especially avid reader.
She was a daily fixture at the noon masses at St. Joseph’s Church and every Saturday night at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. She always looked forward to, and enjoyed, her annual trips to California to see her sister, Nancy and her family, and her trips to Texas and Florida to visit her son and daughters.

Ginger truly loved life and everything nature; flowers, trees, birds and animals. She had a ‘natural green thumb’ and could grow flowers in a desert. She loved her daily backyard feeding ritual of taking care of the birds, chipmunks, rabbits and squirrels, when the weather allowed and would always make room in the kitchen or on the back porch for the neighborhood kitties for a quick bite of kibble, or a drink of water (God bless you ‘Greggor’).

Ginger is survived by her husband, Mark of 73 years, and her three children: Deborah L. Dewsnap of Port Richey, Florida, Dr. Christopher J. (Tammy) Walsh of Cape Coral, Florida, and Stephanie A. (Luke) Ginn of Cape Canaveral, Florida. Her grandchildren, Ashley A. Cooney (Brian) of Austin, Texas and Johnathon T. Walsh of Dallas, Texas. Ginger is also survived by her sister Nancy Winning, and her three children Mike, Sara and Matthew, whom she loved as her own.

Ginger was preceded in death by her parents; her bother William J. “Red” Martens (2016) and Thomas G. “Gus” Martens (2020).

Ginger was especially grateful for the many years of friendship she shared with Mary Rickey, Mary Ervolino, Deborah Block, Marvin Ney, Jean Weiland, and Joanie McCarthy. Sincere thanks and heart-felt appreciation must also be given to her wonderful neighbors; Dianne and Kevin Koch and Karen Craig. Additionally, many thanks again to Marvin Ney at Paramount Ambulance, and to the caring, compassionate and talented professionals and staff at both Medical Associates and MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque. Thank you for always making Ginger your priority. God bless you all and keep you safe.

David V. Gaber

David “Dave” Virgil Gaber, 60, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 25, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory. Private family burial will be at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church Cemetery.

Dave was born on October 10, 1964, in Dubuque, the son of William “Bill” and Carol (Knockel) Gaber. From a young age, he loved spending time outdoors and could often be found exploring nature and building forts with his friends. He graduated from Marquette High School in 1984. Dave married Marilyn Ernst, and together they had three children before later separating. He proudly served his country in the Iowa Army National Guard for four years. Over the years, Dave held various jobs, primarily working in sales. His passion for the outdoors remained a constant throughout his life, leading him to become a longtime member of the Sportsman’s Club. In his later years, he found joy in coin collecting and caring for his beloved pets.

Dave is survived by his mom, Carol Gaber, children Michael (Clayton Tschirhart) Gaber, Ryan and Brittany (Helbing) Gaber and Noah (Julieta Rangel Gomez) Gaber, grandson Otto Gaber, siblings Joe (Amy) Gaber and Michele (Donnie) Grant, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his dad, William “Bill” Gaber.

In honor of Dave’s love for animals, please donate to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society in his memory.

Mary A. Bleile

Mary A. Bleile, age 87, of Dubuque, passed away, surrounded by her loving family, on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Stonehill Health Center.  To celebrate Mary’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  There will be a prayer service held at 7:00 p.m.  Private family burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.Mary was born on June 9, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Donald and Irma (Burbach) Dean.

She graduated from Cuba City High School, Class of 1956.  After school, she went to work at the Dubuque Packing Company before going to work at Flexsteel until her well earned retirement.  She married Elmer Bleile on October 9, 1956, in Kieler, Wisconsin at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.  They shared 58 wonderful years together before Elmer passed away on November 9, 2014.  Mary was a long time member of Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.  She occasionally tried her luck at the casino, was a regular Bingo attendee and enjoyed playing cards.  Mary loved camping and  traveling, marking off all 50 states on her map as they went.  Her family and friends were her world.  She loved family visits and spending time with the kids and all of the grandchildren.  Mary was a wonderful woman and she will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Mary’s memory include

her son,
Randy (Karla) Bleile, Dubuque, IA;

5 grandchildren,
Kelli (Bryan Bertling) Post, Dubuque, IA,
Holli (Tyler) Bradley, Dyersville, IA,
Rachael (Jacob) Tharp, Cascade, IA
and Melissa (Keith Kutella) Medler, Lanark, IL:

12 great-grandchildren,
Meggan, Ethan, MaKenna, Emily, Erica, Jackson, Julia, Rhett, Mason, Josie, Jacob and Kensley;

a great great-granddaughter,
Harper;

a sister-in-law,
Barb Dean, Platteville, WI;

and many nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Elmer Bleile; a son, Daniel Bleile; a daughter, Lori Faust; a grandson, Kyle Faust; a sister, Donna Bobo; and 3 brothers, Dalven Dean, Leonard Dean and Dorrance (Sherry) Dean.

Mary’s family would like to thank Dr. Kirkendall, his nurse Kate, and the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding care.

Cards and memorials in Mary’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Mary Bleile Family.

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

Harvey W. Tibbetts

Harvey W. Tibbetts, 85, of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully with friends and family on June 28, 2025. Visitation is at Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque on Wednesday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to noon, where the funeral service starts at noon.

Harvey was born on October 28, 1939, in Aitkin, MN, son of Willard C. and Dora M. (Peterson) Tibbetts. He graduated from Aitkin High. He moved for the railroad to Galena, IL, where he met Patricia A. (Miller) Tibbetts. Harvey later said he loved “Pat” from first sight. She waitressed at the local cafe. On June 18, 1960, they got married. They had two children, Anthony H. (Sara) Tibbetts of East Dubuque, and Jacqueline R. (Bob) Jaeger of Dubuque, IA. Harvey worked many jobs but retired from Alliant Energy.

Harvey was preceded in death by his wife, his and Pat’s parents, and his siblings who included: A stillborn twin, Duane (Patti Wanous), Mary (Richard Peterson), and Pastor Ronald Tibbetts. Harvey loved grandchildren: Megan (Chad) Smith, Daniel Roeth, Natalie (Robbie) Carey, Travis (girlfriend Olivia Jewell) Busch, Michael Van Meter, Marissa Tibbetts, and Sam Jaeger. Grandpa’s blessings were abounding even great grandkids—Adriana and Alaina, then babies Chloe Carey and Vinny Busch (also Anna, Addy, and Myles). Pat’s large dear family remained near: Siblings of Pat’s are Dick (Connie dec., girlfriend Kay) Miller, Diane (Dick, dec.) Niemeyer, Ronnie (Libby) Miller, Greg (Lindy Casey) Miller, Mark Miller, plus nieces and nephews and great ones.

Harv liked fishing, motorcycles, and CB radio. Harvey and Pat took family camping van trips to the oceans. They hosted friends from Guatemala and the Bahamas. Harvey was stoic yet had a wonderful sense of humor. Quiet and gentle, his words were wise. He loved God, his wife, his children, and his home. He enjoyed TV — Westerns and movies. The family thanks special friends Angie and Gale, Hospice of DBQ, and other caregivers.

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

Daniel J. Frommelt

Daniel (Dan) J. Frommelt, age 77, of Dickeyville Wi, originally of Dubuque, Ia completed his earthly journey after a long-fought, courageous battle with cancer on June 28, 2025. Daniel passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Daniel’s life a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Daniel’s family.

Daniel was born on Easter Sunday, March 28, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Robert and Julia (Schadl) Frommelt. Dan honorably served his country with the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.  Upon his return to civilian life, he enjoyed cars, fishing, canoeing, biking and putzing around the house and yard.  He was an avid music enthusiast and collector.  Dan also enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams, The Chicago Cubs and Bulls on television.

Those left to cherish the memory of Daniel include his partner, Laura (Kapparos) Frommelt; his children, Angela (Eric) Beauchamp of Dubuque, IA, and Scott Frommelt of Dickeyville, WI; his adored grandchildren, Ian Frommelt and Iliana Beauchamp; his siblings, Robert Frommelt, Kris Redding, and Kim Cunningham; along with numerous extended family and friends.

Daniel was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Julia; his sister, Sandra Hentrich; and his brother-in-law and friend, Jim Redding.

Dan’s family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, as well as to Dr. Andrew Bland for all of their professional and compassionate care not only of Daniel, but of the family as well.

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

Judith E. Denlinger

Judith Emma Denlinger, 81, of Hordville, NE formerly of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at home.

To honor Judy there will be a celebration of life, held at a later date.

Judith was born on October 7, 1943 to Frank and Margaret (Hanson) Sarazin in Dubuque. She graduated from East Dubuque High School. Judy married her loving husband Dave in 1980. She was a homemaker for several years before becoming employed at Heritage Manor. 

In 2023 she moved to Nebraska to be closer to her daughter Sherri.

While we are saddened by her departure, we celebrate the countless moments of joy and laughter she brought to all of us. Judy’s vibrant personality was apparent the minute she entered the room. Judy made every moment, a special one. In her free time Judy was devoted to her family and friends. You could find her singing karaoke with Dave, Tony and friends, crafting with Jade and Emma,  playing Aggravation with Austin and Addison, baking with Paislee, Henry and Penelope or talking to Sylvia, Kim, Roxy or countless others on the phone.  Judy was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother who approached each day as an opportunity to make others feel special. 

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Judy include:

Her children:
Sherri (Matt) Means, Hordville, NE
Roxane (Patrick) Demaio, Dubuque, IA
Anthony “Tony” (Ashley Winders) Denlinger, Dubuque, IA

Son-in-law Fred Kammiller, Dyersville, IA

13 grandchildren:

13 great grandchildren

And 2 great-great grandchildren

Her brother:
Les (Sandy) Sarazin of Dubuque,

Her inlaws:
Von (Jean) Denlinger, Cascade, IA
Vanita Bries, Epworth, IA
Pam Strub, Elbe, WA

Brother-in-law Donald Kronlage, Epworth, IA

Along with countless extended family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Judy was preceded in death by her loving husband of 41 years, Dave Denlinger, parents Frank and Margaret Sarazin, a daughter Vickie Kammiller, 3 Brothers: Jim Sarazin, Dave Sarazin, Frank “Snook” Sarazin, her Father and Mother in law, Eldon and Lenore Denlinger, 3 brother-in laws Merle Denlinger, Duane Denlinger, and Terry Strub, 2 sister-in-laws Sharon Sarazin and Cathy Kronlage, and a great grandson, Myles Ernzen.

Judy’s family would like to thank the town of Hordville, for coming together to support Judy and her family.  A special heartfelt thank you to Judy’s granddaughter, Tasha Thomsen, for her generous love and support to Judy in her final days. We will be forever grateful.

Terrell Fowler Jr.

Terrell “T.J.” Fowler Jr., 22, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, June 21, 2025.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, July 4, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque. Visitation will continue from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with a service following at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 5, at the Grand River Center (Meeting Rooms 4 & 5).

T.J. was born April 27, 2003 in Chicago, the son of Sheena Longstreet and Terrell Fowler. He attended Prescott and Fulton Elementary Schools, Jefferson Middle School, and graduated from Wahlert High School in 2021.

Basketball was T.J.’s passion. He began playing at the Dubuque Dream Center and eventually played on the Wahlert High School Basketball Team. His involvement with the DDC led to him accepting Jesus Christ as the head of his life in the 8th grade.

T.J. had a very helpful personality, especially with children, who gravitated toward him. He loved to dance and did the best Michael Jackson dances. His smile could light up a room, and he was a light and legend to his community. T.J. will be sadly missed by many.

Those left to cherish his memory include his parents, Sheena Longstreet and Terrell Fowler, Sr.; his sister, Antoinetta Williams; his brother, LaCortland Stewart;  his grandparents, Tish Longstreet, Donald Davis, Linda Fowler, and Terry Fowler, his aunts and uncles, LaToya (Darren), Andrea, Delores, Jerome, Mike, Moesha, Monique, Kawanda, Antonio, and Antwan; his special cousins, Sheena, Latoriana, Andrea, Montrel, Tremaine, Jasmine, DaQuan, and Marcus; his special nephew, Mike; his spiritual father, Robert (Nellie); his spiritual sisters, Nakiah and Affrica; and a large extended family including many other cousins and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his great grandmother, Delores Longstreet; and his aunt, Brenda Longstreet.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dubuque Dream Center.

Marion Weatherwax

Marion Weatherwax, affectionately known as “Pizza Grandma,” passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, in Wheatland, Iowa. She was 91 years old.

Born on December 22, 1933 to Jorgen and Agatha (Schenck) Damsbo, in New York State, Marion lived a remarkable life filled with adventure, learning, laughter, and love. Formerly of Yuma, Arizona, she spent her final years in Iowa, close to family who cherished her dearly.

Marion’s first marriage blessed her with a daughter, Nancy. As time went on Marion met and married the love of her life Lynn Weatherwax (Dick). Through their union Marion added to her family three stepchildren Faith, Geoff, and Dale.

A lifelong educator, Marion began her career as a schoolteacher and, after retirement, continued sharing her knowledge and passion by teaching ballroom dance and bridge on cruise ships alongside her beloved husband Dick. Marion and Dick spent many years traveling together and making happy memories. After Dick passed away in 2003 Marion continued to travel and play bridge.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Marion was a woman of many talents. She was a Life Master in Bridge, a testament to her keen intellect and dedication to the game she loved. Known for her generosity and quick wit she brought joy to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Marion was deeply devoted to her family. She is survived by her sister, Janet Wilber; son-in-law, Tom (Kathleen) Eltrich; stepchildren: Faith Much, Geoff Weatherwax; grandchildren: Ian (KC) Eltrich, Aaron (Ruth) Eltrich, Tomra (Shane) Bazer, Danton Eltrich, Allegra Much, Melina Much, Steve Much, Christopher Weatherwax, Kimberly Betts, Pamela Weatherwax, Geoffrey Weatherwax, and Gregory Weatherwax; great-grandchildren: Greyson Eltrich, Abigail Eltrich, Vallen Eltrich, Ayla Eltrich, Ashton (Marigold) Bazer, and Ireland (Jake Fry) Bazer — as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends who will remember her fondly.

Marion was preceded in death by her husband, Dick Weatherwax; daughter, Nancy Eltrich; stepson, Dale Weatherwax; son-in-law, Steven Much; a sister; and her parents.

A graveside service will be held on Monday June 30, 2025. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests honoring Marion by enjoying her favorite meal fajitas and a lime margarita, playing a hand of bridge, dancing a little, or simply enjoying a good laugh—just as she would have wanted.

The family would like to thank Wheatland Manor and Compassus Hospice for the wonderful care Marion received.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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

David W. Strang

David W. Strang, 80, of Cascade, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at his home in Cascade.

Visitation for Dave will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 1:00 p.m. with Deacon Steve Strang presiding.  Full Military Honors will follow by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Dave was born May 14, 1945, in Monticello, Iowa, son of Clarence and Nelma (Rahe) Strang.  He received his education from Aquin High School in Cascade and is also a graduate of Loras College in Dubuque, where he received his BS in education and math.  On June 19, 1971, he was united in marriage to Marjorie Reilly at St. Patrick’s in Ryan, Iowa.

Dave was a math teacher and coach at Monticello High School, he taught at Beckman High School in Dyersville, then he taught at Mineral Point High School in Mineral Point Wisconsin and later was a coach at Cascade High School. He loved coaching football and track.  He cherished living on the family farm where he could enjoy nature and the timbers surrounding them.  He enjoyed a couple of hours each evening sitting out by the fire with his wife, enjoying their time together.

Dave was an Air Force Veteran, having served as a Captain in Vietnam, He was a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Those left to treasure Dave’s memory are his wife, Margie Strang of Cascade; two daughters, Emily (Ben) Klocke of Muscatine, IA and Susan Murphy of Cedar Rapids, IA; two grandchildren, Jackson and Gracelyn Murphy; two sisters, Mariann (Larry) Cigrand of Freeport, IL, and Marjean Tucker of Des Moines, IA; and two sisters-in-law, Donna Wagner of Rockford, IL, Mona Reilly of Coggon, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Patrick and Elizabeth (Ward) Reilly; his brothers and sisters-in-laws, Rog Tucker, Rita (Erv) Gatens, Jeanne (Emmet) Dolan,
Gene Wagner, Tommy (Rose Ann) Reilly, Morrie (Ed) Murrin and Don Reilly.

A David W. Strang memorial fund has been established.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Edmund H. Merges

Edmund H. “Ed” Merges, age 67, of Sherrill, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Ed’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, June 27, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 468 Balltown Road.  There will be a parish scripture service held at 2:30 p.m.  The Sherrill Fire Department will assemble and pay their respects as a group at 6:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, with Rev. Tyler Raymond officiating.  Burial will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Ed was born on November 29, 1957, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Frank and Ruth (Longueville) Merges Sr.

Ed attended grade school in Sherrill and graduated from Hempstead High School, Class of 1976.  At age 15 he entered the workforce with B&K Meats.  At age 18 he went to work with Klauer Manufacturing, and after 34 years with the company, Ed retired in 2009.  Ed married his one true love, Nancy Jansen, on June 8, 1985, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Sherrill.  They recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with family and friends.  Ed was a member of the Sherrill Volunteer Fire Department, and would have celebrated his 50th anniversary as a fireman this year.  He was also one of the original members of the Sherrill Jaycees.  Ed loved being in the great outdoors.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing with friends at the Honeycomb Hideout and spent countless hours making sure his lawn was perfectly manicured.  Ed enjoyed family camping trips and also looked forward to watching the kids’ ball games.  He liked spending time with his friends, and CCD nights with Wilbur and Hawk were a favorite activity.  Ed was a devoted family man who will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Ed’s memory include

his wife,
Nancy Merges, Sherrill, IA;

his children,
Emily (Kenny Arnold) Merges, Luxemburg, IA,
Amanda (Adam Cook) Merges, Sherrill, IA
and Michael (Caitlyn Fields) Merges; Sherrill, IA;

3 grandchildren,
Josie, Maggie and Oliver;

his siblings,
Frank (Eileen) Merges Jr., Dubuque, IA
and Rosemary Schreiber, Dubuque, IA;

his nieces and nephews,
Jenny (Ottis) Bunning, Diane (Doug) Brehm, Steve (Christina) Schreiber and Joe Schreiber;

and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; 3 brothers-in-law, John Schreiber, Lester Jansen and Wayne Jansen; and his in-laws, Darlene and Norm Jansen.

Ed’s family would like to thank the Sherrill Fire Department, Dr. Torres and the MercyOne ICU staff for their professional and compassionate care for Ed.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Sherrill Fire Department.  Cards and memorials in Ed’s memory may also be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ed Merges Family.

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

Agnes M. Milota

Agnes M. Milota, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, Iowa, at the age of 83. Born on January 23, 1942, in Monticello, Iowa, Agnes was the daughter of Harm John and Phoebe Gladys (Westphal) Rickels. She spent her formative years in rural Monmouth and was a proud 1960 graduate of Monmouth High School, where she showcased her athletic spirit on the basketball court.

Agnes’s heart found its match when she married Gilbert R. “Butch” Milota on December 30, 1961, in Monmouth, Iowa. Their union was blessed with love, laughter, and family until Butch’s passing on January 3, 2015.

Agnes’s professional journey was as diverse as it was fulfilling. After graduating high school, she worked for Collins Radio in Cedar Rapids for a year. Her career path led her to various roles, including house cleaning, a stint at Lakehurst, and ultimately, she found joy in working in the kitchen at Sunshine Daycare and Preschool in Maquoketa for over five years.

A devout Christian, Agnes was a dedicated member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through times of joy and sorrow with grace and resilience. Agnes’s interests were a reflection of her zest for life. She relished trips to the casino, where she found excitement and camaraderie. An avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, she rarely missed a chance to cheer on the Men’s basketball team, sharing her passion with family and friends.

Above all, Agnes’s world revolved around her family. Her love for them was boundless, and the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was her most treasured.

Agnes leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. She is survived by her daughters, Jodi (Dean) Nowachek of Monmouth, IA, and Lori (Brent) Klemm of Marion, IA; three grandchildren, Amanda (Phil) Schinstock, Becky (Matt) Koch, and Allison Foster; three great-grandchildren, Emery, Elise, and Rozlyn; brother, Carl Rickels of Monmouth, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved husband, her son Randy Ray Milota, her grandson Tyler James Foster, her sister Gladys Keating, and her brothers John Henry, Howard, Herman, George “Don,” and one brother who passed at birth.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, June 30, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Monmouth, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Camp Courageous of Iowa.

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