Obituaries Archive

Dorothy Digmann

Dorothy (Grundmeyer) Digmann, 88, of Dyersville passed away peacefully on Friday, May 5, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 7 pm.  Visitation will continue Tuesday from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the funeral Mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Kyle Digmann will officiate.

Dorothy “Babe” Grundmeyer was born near Raeville, Nebraska on January 6, 1935, the daughter of Anton and Dorothy (Kurtenbach) Grundmeyer. A neighbor helped deliver her because muddy roads prevented the doctor from making the trip.  At age 5 her family moved to Iowa to escape the difficulties of farming in the Dust Bowl.

She was one of twelve Dundee High School graduates in 1953 and spent several years working at an insurance company in Cedar Rapids, sharing a two-bedroom apartment with five other young women.  Despite burning a fair share of meals through the early years, her pies and sweet rolls became an eagerly anticipated part of family get-togethers.

Dorothy married Luvern Digmann in 1955, but later divorced.  After raising five children, she began taking classes at Kirkwood Community College in 1987, after nine years she earned an associate degree before continuing her education at Loras College.   She moved to Dyersville in 1992.

Dorothy loved bowling, playing cards, and putting together puzzles.  She was an excellent seamstress and will be laid to rest in an outfit of her own making.  As an active member of the Dyersville community, she volunteered at the Dyer House, the food pantry, the Resurrection Choir at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, and delivered meals for Meals on Wheels.  She was also an English as a second language tutor.  Her activities earned her the Governor’s Volunteer Award.  She was also politically active, having been a member of the Democratic Central Committee.

Dorothy is survived by five children: Ron (Diana) Digmann of Marion, Brother Craig Digmann (G.H.M.) of Hartsville, TN, Marianne Wink of Alburnett, Jerry (Karol) Digmann of Worthington, and Sandy Ford of Cedar Rapids; 12 grandchildren: Lynn (Lance) Shannon, Michelle Perry, Kim (Amron) Van Dolah, Anthony (Stephanie) Digmann, Father Kyle Digmann, Kami Henry, Kaitlin Wink, Adam (Amanda) Digmann, Andrea (Matt) Houslog, Nathan Digmann, Josh Ford, and Calvin Ford; and 20 great-grandchildren; two siblings: Rita Thole of Oelwein and Jim (Jan) Grundmeyer of Manchester, and her beloved cat, Toto.

She was preceded in death by four brothers: Willis (Bernice), Val (JG), Tony (Nancy), Connie (Pat), and one sister, Mary Ann (David) Puff , and a special friend of 17 years, Bill Phillips.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the Dyersville Food Pantry.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Leslie D. Wagner

Leslie D. Wagner, 52 of Platteville, WI passed away on May 3rd, 2023, at Southwest Health in Platteville.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 12th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 13^th, 2023, at St. Peters Lutheran Church with Pastor Matt Agee officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery in St. Donatus.

She was born on August 18, 1970, in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Roger E. and Alice (Lubs) Wagner. She worked for the State of Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Bureau of Health Services, Division of Quality Assurance – Nurse Consultant.

Leslie was an extraordinary friend. She made life-long friends everywhere she went, family members were also friends. She made everyone feel special, and hosted get-togethers to stay close. A get-together with Leslie was not to be missed. You could count on her telling a story, in a way only Leslie could tell it, until everyone had a stitch in their side from laughing so hard. If a friend was in need, she went the extra mile to reach out and offer support.  Her capacity to care for her friends was limitless.

Her capacity to care also drove her career. As a registered nurse, she cared for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, spending most of her career as a dialysis nurse, and most recently worked for the State of Wisconsin monitoring medical facilities. At the end of April, she received a national award of excellence in her profession for the work she did to close an unsafe dialysis unit. She poured her heart and soul into that effort, including concern for the patients challenged with finding care elsewhere.

Her care also extended to animals of all kinds. She loved her pets, usually caring for indoor and outdoor cats and a dog. She also loved horses and visited friends’ barns whenever possible. Leslie also loved vacations, board games, pot-luck picnics, cooking, crafting with friends, and flower gardens.

She is survived by her parents Roger and Alice (Lubs) Wagner; her sister Elizabeth (Wagner) Kemp; her brother-in-law Robert Kemp; two nieces: Michelle (Nicholas) Forbes, their children Morrison and Henric Forbes; and Jacqueline (Jeff Nicholson) Kemp.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents August & Clara Lubs and Arthur & Lucille Wagner; her brother Steven Wagner along with many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the Dubuque Humane Society, Hospice of Dubuque or St. Jude’s Hospital in memory of Leslie.

The family would like to thank Southwest Health in Platteville; Grand River Medical Group; and the Wendt Regional Cancer Center. A special appreciation to the friends that cared for Leslie around the clock in her home and hospital.

Richard M. Putman

Richard “Rick” M. Putman, 71, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, May 1, 2023 at his home surrounded by his family.  Family Services will be conducted.

Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Richard was born January 7, 1952, the son of Richard F. and Loreen (Cooper) Putman.  He was a commercial fisherman and drove semi-truck for Dubuque Steel Company before retiring in 2008.  Richard enjoyed living on the river, fishing, and hunting.

Survivors include his children, LeeAnn (Stephen) Mazur and Jon (Jackie Williamson) Putman; grandchildren, Chelsea Orton, Gage Orton, and Caeleb Putman; siblings, Dori (Jim) Timmerman, Gayle (Dale) Daniels, and Gloria (Delos) Sheff; a sister in-law, Pauline Putman; and special cousins, Yolanda (Doug), Tony, and Kayla; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended relatives.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Dan Putman.

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

Natasha A. Fischer

Natasha Anne Fischer, 31 of Dubuque passed away on April 30th, 2023.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, May 7th, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a service will be held at 4:00 p.m.  A Celebration of Life will be held on June 11, 2023, with location and time to be announced.

Natasha was born on July 15, 1991, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Michele (Kruser) Fischer. She was employed at Michelin (formerly Camso).

Natasha had a passion for gardening, fishing, animals, riding roller coasters and anything to do with getting her hands dirty. She was an avid Green Bay Packers and Cubs fan.

Natasha was a great confidant to friends and family and as a friend she was all in. She enjoyed life with family and considered her friends as family. She was a child at heart and had the adoration of her cousin’s and friend’s children. She was a creative soul and built many items from wood and created costumes for Halloween.

She is survived by her parents: Michele (Kruser) and Mark Fischer; her sister, Selena (Grant) Fischer; grandparents, Doris Fischer and John Kruser; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her Grandmother, Darlene (Clough) Kruser and Grandfather, John Fischer.

Thank you to Alea, Aubri, Jesse and any others who were there to enjoy life with her.

Stephen F. Benda

Stephen F. “Lefty” Benda, 63, of Farley, Iowa passed away on May 4, 2023, at Mercy One, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Lefty will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, May 7, 2023, at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m., and the Farley Fire Department will meet in a body at 5pm.

Mass of Christian Burial for Lefty will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 8, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Scott Boone presiding. Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa, where the Fire Department will do the striking of the four fives.

Lefty was born on February 12, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Edward and Thelma (Urbain) Benda. He attended St. Joseph’s School and Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.   He was united in marriage to Darla Link on June 21, 1980, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.   Lefty was employed for Nickol Boring and later for the Iowa Department of Transportation, where he worked for 30 years, retiring in 2017.

Lefty was a member of the St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa. He was also a retired member of the Farley Volunteer Fire Department for which he volunteered for 25 years.   In May of 2017 he was inducted into the Dubuque County Hall of Flame.  He was on the Farley Park Board, the City Council and later served as Mayor of Farley.

Lefty was a loving and devoted husband, father and papa to Olivia.  He enjoyed putting puzzles together, he religiously watched the weather during the winter months, camping and cracking one of his great jokes.  He never met a stranger.  He passed on his quick wit to his daughter Tammy and to Marty he passed on his love of sirens and devotion to fire fighting.  He was honored to be Camp Host at the Stelken Resort.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Darla Benda of Farley; his two children, Tammy (Timothy) Klingman of  Strawberry Point, IA, and Martin E. Benda of Farley, one grandchild, Olivia; his mother, Thelma Loes of Farley; three siblings, Dan (Michelle) Benda of Kingwood, TX, Jeanne (Ray) Manternach of Cascade, and Chad Loes of Hiawatha; brothers and sisters-in-law, Andrea Loes of Manchester, MD, Debra Snedden of Maple Grove, MN, Diane (Mark) Schmitt and Donna (Ron) Ament of Farley, Denise (Steve) Kuenster of Farmersburg, Danette (Joe) McElmeel of Cascade, Randy (Cris) Link, Ron Link ( and Jolene Decker), and Rod (Tammy) Link all of Dubuque.

He is preceded in death by his father, Edward Benda in 1961; stepfather, Gene Loes in 2010; two brothers, Kevin Benda in 1979, and Bret Loes in 2014; and his father and mother-in-law, Robert and Delores Link.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family of Lefty would like to thank the University of Iowa, Dr. Engelman and staff and the ICU department at Mercy One in Dubuque and the Farley Fire and EMS. 

Loreen A. Schoop

Loreen A. (Knief) Schoop, 91, formerly of La Motte, most recently of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at Mill Valley Center in Bellevue.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Saturday, May 6, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus.  Visitation will be 9:00 am until service time at the church prior to services also Saturday.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Loreen was born July 9, 1931, the daughter of William and Lillian (Huenke) Knief.  She married Emil R. Schoop on October 5, 1957, he passed on June 18, 2013.  Loreen worked at Wartburg Seminary as a secretary and then after raising her children she then worked at University of Dubuque for many years before retiring.  She also worked on the family farm with her husband Emil until retiring.  Loreen and Emil enjoyed many winters in Arizona and she continue to spend many more years there after his passing.  She was a great cook, enjoyed playing cards, cross-stitching, and spending time with her children and grandchildren.  Loreen was a lifetime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus.  She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Nancy (David) Dodge of La Motte, Deb (Tom) Decker of Bellevue, and Randy (Barb) Schoop of Dubuque; grandchildren, Rachel (Matt) Teal, Kris (Michael) Olbel, Kate (Mark) Sainci, Nick (Amanda) Decker, Adam (Molly) Decker, Corey (Sarah) Schoop, and Jacob (Katie) Schoop; 17 great-grandchildren; a sister, Donna (Willard) Felderman; and sisters in-law, Pauline Schoop and Bernice Schoop.

Loreen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Emil; a brother, Verle (Lorraine) Knief; brothers and sisters in-law, John (Betty) Schoop, Fred Schoop, Arthur Schoop, Robert Schoop, Eleanor (Leonard) Clark, Harold (Anna) Miller, Blaine Miller, and Dorothy (Bob) McCroskey.

Memorial may be directed to St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus in Loreen’s memory.

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

Ronn L. Toebaas

Ronn L. Toebaas was born June 19, 1941, in Evanston, IL to Lillian (Polzin) Toebaas and Lawrence A. Toebaas. He attended Loyola University and earned a bachelor’s degree in Speech and Drama. While at Loyola, he served as an Army Reservist and an active-duty MP. He wed Alice M Noel in Wisconsin Rapids, WI on June 6, 1964. They were separated only by her passing on January 6, 2011.

Ronn grew up in the small Norwegian farming community of Iola, WI with his parents and sister Jacqueline Osowski, who was 11 years his senior.  When his parents divorced, he and his mother Lillian moved to Evanston, IL where he pursued his degree in Speech and Drama at Loyola University.

He taught Speech and Drama at Josephinum Academy of the Sacred Heart for 9 years, and then Speech and Drama at St. Scholastica Academy for 13 years. Both institutions were all-girls Catholic High Schools in the Chicago area. He remained in touch with many of his former students and endearingly referred to them as his “adopted daughters”.

He was employed by the United States government with teaching assignments throughout the country. Twice, he was awarded the Faculty Excellence Award. He was thrilled to have his last teaching assignment in Hawaii.

His acting and directing career spanned theater groups from Chicago’s Northshore to Galena, IL, to Door County, WI, and many other locations. He was known for getting actors to perform at their absolute best, and while he himself loved acting he found directing “more to his liking.” Across his 56 years in theater, Ronn would sometimes work on 8 or more projects per year. He directed over 140 plays.

Along with his wife Alice and their friends, he co-founded the Main Street Players Theatre Company in Galena, IL in 1986. He also served as the Artistic Director of the Theatre of Western Springs for 8 years.

In 2004, he and Alice moved from Chicago to their permanent residence in Galena. In 2006, he took over writing and directing Galena’s annual Cemetery Walk. He wrote over 80 scenes in the 16 years of his Cemetery Walk productions.

In 2015, with the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War approaching, he was commissioned by the Galena – Jo Daviess County Historical Society to create, write, and direct the play “Peace in Union” to celebrate the occasion in Galena.

In 2019 he was an Inductee into the Galena History Museum’s Heritage Hall of Fame.

He had most recently played a major role in an independent film produced by his friend Roger Kuhns called “Carbon Man”. This was Ronn’s first film, and he considered it his most “professional” accomplishment.

Besides his passion for theater, he enjoyed antiquing, traveling, writing, and getting together with his treasured family and friends.

He and Alice were both proud and passionate about their shared Norwegian heritage. They visited their homeland to connect with their families. Through these travels and family connections, he became good friends with his new “adopted son” Lars Arne Skar.

He is survived by his nieces and nephews Jane (Terry) McKnight, Sandra (Mark) Bystrom, Mary (Rob) Reid, Ann (Jerry) Bigalke, Joe (Jean) Osowski, Lori (Mark) Osowski, his sister-in-law Doreen (Donald) Barse, and many great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Alice, his parents Lawrence and Lillian (Polzin) Toebaas, and his dear sister Jacqueline Glee Osowski.

He requested that any memorial donations be made in his and Alice’s name to the Alice Toebaas Curatorial Endowment Fund at the Galena – Jo Daviess County Historical Society.

A service to celebrate Ronn’s life will be held at Grace Episcopal Church in Galena at 309 Hill St. on Friday, May 19, at 10:00 AM. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Glen Callahan

Glen Callahan passed away at 12:34 pm on April 29, 2023, due to complications from a recent stroke.  His family called him Felix, because like a cat, he seemed to have nine lives.  He had faced numerous health issues throughout his life, and sailed through all of them with ease until this last episode, number nine.

Glen was born to Walter and Anna Callahan on October 15, 1944.  He grew up on a farm on Callahan Road in Bernard, IA surrounded by six loving sisters:  Jeananne Freymann (Don Freymann), Lois Corbin-Sweeney (Jim Sweeney), Karen Wertzberger (Dave Wertzberger), Mary Callahan-Elliott (Junior Elliott), Katie Miller (Jay Miller), and Linda Wertzberger (Dick Wertzberger).  After high school, he married Jane (Kisting) Callahan and they had three daughters:  Colleen Callahan, Amy Steinacker (Tim), and Susie Callahan.  Glen was so relieved when his daughters all had grandsons, so he could finally have some male companionship.  Glen loved horses and horseback riding, and listened to country music all his life.  He was always up for a mean game of Euchre, and he enjoyed camping and fishing with his grandsons Jordan Lopez, Dylan Callahan, Alex Steinacker, Eric Steinacker and son-in-law Tim Steinacker.

Glen was married to Diane (Breitbach) Callahan, and cared deeply for his step-children:  Kelly Breitbach and Scott Breitbach.  Glen also had a long-term relationship with Sandy Bertsch, who shared many of his final years and trips to Florida.

After a brief stint at Dubuque Packing Company, Glen founded Dubuque Data Services, a local software development company, in 1972.  He was CEO of DDS until 2016, when he sold the business to PBS Systems and retired.  Throughout his life, his passion was softball and fishing, and in his later years, he enjoyed visiting his friend Peter Takos in Florida for some sun and deep sea fishing.

His final wish was to donate his body to research at Mayo Clinic, as a thank you for the many times they saved his life.  Because of this, there won’t be a viewing, but the family is planning a Celebration of Life later this summer.  Details on the memorial will be sent to close friends and posted on Facebook.  All are welcome.   Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Glen was very blessed to have so many friends and family, and was thrilled to have been visited by so many of them this past year.  Glen will be deeply missed by all, but we’re sure he will be up in heaven arguing politics with his daughter Susie, playing cards with his Mom and Dad, and watching out for all of us.   Special thanks goes to the staff at Stonehill, the Hospice nurses and friends who visited often (Buzz, Chuck, Kristine and others) who all helped make his final days as pleasant as possible.

Joseph A. Peters III

Joseph “Joe” A. Peters III, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, April 30, 2023.

Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Graveside Services will be 11:00 am, Thursday, May 4, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Joe was born January 2, 1960 in Bellevue, the son of Joseph A. Peters II and Janet (Knight) Joseph (Joe) Arthur Peters, III, born January 2nd, 1960, the second of 5 children born to Janet (Knight) and Joseph Peters II.  Joe was devastated his dad died when he was 6 years old.  That sorrow turned to joy when Janet remarried 3 years later to Joe’s bonus dad, Paul Sieverding.  Janet and Paul brought 3 more children into the family.

Joe loved the outdoors.  He liked to hunt and fish, go 4 wheeling and mushroom hunting when in season. His 3 sons were Joe’s pride and joy.  From the time they were able to walk Joe took them out hunting and fishing with him.  The boys learned to love the outdoors as much as their dad.  Joe was so proud of his sons for all their accomplishments.  Joe was looking forward to meeting his first grandson in a few months.  Sadly, Joe’s time ran out before the birth.

Joe was a horticulturist. He planted a field of berry bushes and fruit trees right outside of Bellevue for a U-pick garden.  He wanted everyone in town to enjoy fresh fruit. His health prevented that dream from becoming a reality. Joe was able to keep a couple of peach trees at his house and was looking forward to lots of peaches this year, based on the number of flowers on the tree.

Joe had a kind heart and helped friends and family. Every year Joe donated bikes to the local Bellevue children at Easter time. He felt bikes were important for kids to develop and grow.

Joe had some hard times but he never dwelt on them and kept moving forward with a positive attitude. When he was young, he bought equipment and set up his own welding shop.  That dream ended after a few short months when someone broke into the shop and stole everything he had. It was a hard time but it did not hold him down. He went back to work for the union and bought other equipment over the years but was never able to recreate the welding shop.

The past few years have been especially hard for Joe.  He had a stroke that left him with Parkinson’s like symptoms so walking was slow.  The stroke also damaged his frontal lobe which caused him to say whatever he was thinking without any filter. That got him in a little hot water every once in a while. But he was always the same old Joe.

Joe looked forward to going to the bowling alley at 4pm every day.  He especially enjoyed talking to his nephew, Jarod, who was always looking out for Joe.

Joe is survived by his sons.  Joseph IV, Justin and Tyler and a grandson. His bonus dad, Paul Sieverding, his sister, Stacy (Peters) Jaeger, Timothy Peters, Jennifer (Sieverding) Whittington, Paul Sieverding, Jr and Chad Sieverding.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Peters II and Janet (Peters) Sieverding.  His siblings, Jill Peters and Mike Peters, and a niece Sarah Jaeger.

Joe will be buried with his sister Jill at the Bellevue cemetery.

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

Henry L. Holston

Henry L. “Bo” Holston, age 66, of Dubuque and formerly of Freeport, IL, passed away at 8:03 a.m., on Monday, May 1, 2023, at Harmony of Dubuque. To honor Bo’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m., on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.

Bo was born on October 28, 1956, in Canton, Mississippi, son of Robert Earl Holston and Oneta Powell.

Bo grew up and attended school in Canton, MS. The family eventually moved to Chicago, and in the early 1970’s, Bo joined the U.S. Army to honorably serve his country. When his time with the service was over, Bo went to work as a mechanic with the US Postal service for over 15 years until his retirement. Bo had many interests in his free time. He loved music and played lead guitar with several bands in Chicago and Mississippi. Bo also enjoyed riding his motorcycle. He was very disciplined in his practice of martial arts. We will miss Bo tremendously, but find some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully, free of the health issues he has faced these past months.

Those left to cherish Bo’s memory include

his daughter,
Tamika Holston, Miami, FL;

his grandchildren,
Brittany Holston, Tywand Render, Terrick Huttoe, Dewon Hamilton, Demesha Hamilton and Daniah Hamilton;

a host of great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Betty Silas, Chicago, IL,
Woodroe (Sara) Silas, Canton, MS,
Mary Holston, Apple River, IL,
Willie (Angie) Holston, Vallejo, CA,
John (Lindell) Holston, Dubuque, IA
and James (Marilyn) Holston, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Bo was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Henry Burel.

Bo’s family would like to thank Dr. Caceres and the nurses and staff that have helped care for Bo at ProMedica, especially Joseph, Alyssa, Alicia, Kim and Abby. Also a special thanks to everyone at Hospice of Dubuque.

Dear Brother,

Sadly, you are no longer here; however, your kind spirit remains very near. The loving memories of you will be forever treasured within our hearts.

To us you were precious and dear, always willing to lend an ear. Your smile was warm and bright, but you could also produce a frown, which would cause a bit of fright.

You are one in a million, our humble and fun-loving brother who we loved so dear. Life without you will not be the same, for now we must bear some pain.

We will always cherish your memory. In this family you are an irreplaceable part, out of sight, but never out of mind, forever will you live in our Heart!

We Love you in this world & the next,

The Brothers & the Sisters ♥♥♥

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

William F. Freiburger

William F. Freiburger, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 24th, 2023, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.

A private service will be held at a later date. Burial in Mount Olivet Cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

William was born on October 29, 1945, Dubuque, IA the son of John “Jack” and Harriet (Savary) Freiburger.

He worked many years at Caradco in Dubuque, upon their closing, he was self-employed doing snow removal, lawncare and maintenance. He was honorably discharged from the US Navy.

He is survived by his daughter Michelle (Steve Hopkins) Freiburger, of Mesa, AZ, siblings; John (Karen) Freiburger, Charlotte Hanson, Mary Freiburger and Helen Freiburger, all of Dubuque. Many nieces and nephews along with several great nieces and nephews

William was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Rose Freiburger, brothers James Freiburger and Charles Freiburger, brother-in-law Lawrence Hanson, niece Deborah Yoder and former wife Mariella Freiburger

Condolences for the family can be left with Leonard Funeral Home or on William’s obituary on the funeral home’s website leonardfuneralhome.com.

Scott A. Smith

Scott A. Smith, 67, of Dubuque, IA passed away Saturday, April 29, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center surrounded by loved ones.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 5th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 6th, 2023, at the funeral home with Deacon John Stierman officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

Scott was born on March 13, 1956, in Dubuque, IA to Robert & Madelyn (Beyhl) Smith.

After high school Scott joined the Navy where he was a MR2 & worked on the USS Dixie AD-14 from 1975- 1978. Scott had many jobs, but he was widely known as a do-it-all handyman. If he didn’t know how to repair or build something he wasn’t afraid to put in the work to learn how to do so. His basement was his own little shop where he would spend free time on his projects. He was a family man and prioritized always being there for his kids. He loved the Packers & Hawkeyes, spending time on his boat, and took immense pride in his truck.

On February 22nd, 2022, Scott took Deborah Theis’ hand in marriage after 10 years of dating. Scott loved spending time with Deb whether it was doing yard work or just sitting around a fire drinking Busch Light. She truly brought out the best in him.

He is survived by his two children Shane Smith and Taylor (Reggie) Paar; his wife Deborah; stepson Kelly Hoffmann (Niki Launspach); siblings Bob (Sandy) Smith; Lynn (Lynn) Smith; Kevin (Ann) Smith; Terry (Janice) Smith; and Cathy (Bobby) Morley.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Madelyn, sisters Diane Breitbach and Mary Wright, brother Jerry Smith, and brother-in-law Dave Wright.

The family sends its thanks to the first responders, doctors, staff, and all others at Mercy Medical Center ICU & ER.

Sr. Mary Jo Keane, BVM

Sister Mary Jo Keane, BVM, (Martin Mary), 88, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1040 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Friday, April 28, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Mary Jo was a high school teacher in Chicago, St. Louis, and Burbank, Calif. She ministered as a social worker in the Chicago Public Schools. She served the congregation as office staff in Dubuque, Iowa, and office manager in Los Gatos, Calif.

She was born Sept. 6, 1934, in Chicago to Martin and Catherine (Rowland) Keane. She entered the BVM congregation Aug. 2, 1959, from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on Feb. 2, 1962, and final vows on July 16, 1967.

She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather Thomas Hoban, sister Patricia (Harold “Bing”) Carlson, and brother-in-law George Wendell. She is survived by a sister Catherine “Kay” Wendell, Scottsdale, Ariz.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 63 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is in charge of arrangements.

Dale A. Griffin

Dale A. “Grub” Griffin, age 68, of Dickeyville, WI, completed his earthly journey on April 30, 2023, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA.  To honor Dale’s life, a Gathering of Remembrance will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at PJ’s Pub and Hall, 3670 County HHH, Kieler, WI.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dale’s family.

Dale was born on November 15, 1954, in Staten Island, N.Y. a son to Robert and Betty (McCoy) Griffin.  He retired from Krusers in Dickeyville.  His favorite past times were playing music, hunting, fishing, cooking, morel hunting, and anything outdoors; especially if it included riding his Harley with his friends.  Dale played in many bands in the area most of his life.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dale include,

his mother,
Betty Griffin;

his son,
Timmy Griffin;

his siblings,
Tim (Kathy) Griffin,
Russ (Kris) Griffin,
Dick (Ruth) Griffin,
Julie Griffin,
and Caroline (Mary Labrecht) Griffin;

along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and many good friends.

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Robert Griffin; and his niece, Holly (Griffin) Amunson.

Dale’s family would like to thank all of his family and friends who have continually reached out to provide comfort during this very difficult time.  They would also like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Kay E. Auderer

Kay E. Auderer, 76, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Chandler Medical Center in Chandler, AZ, with her loving husband and Arizona family by her side.

A prayer service will be held at 3:45 pm on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kay will be 10:30 am Monday, May 8, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Kay was born March 21, 1947, in Peoria, IL, the daughter of Maynard P. and Janice F. (Turk) Cullen. On June 29, 1968, she married Roger Auderer at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore, Wisconsin.

Kay graduated from Fennimore High School in 1965. She then furthered her education at Mercy Medical Center School of Nursing, graduating in 1969 and later graduating from the University of Dubuque with her Bachelor’s Degree in 1984.

Kay was a longtime member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. She also volunteered at Dubuque Rescue Mission.

Kay worked for Mercy Medical Center for 37 years in many capacities. At the time of her retirement she was working as Accreditation Coordinator. Kay was also one of the original members and vice chair of the Dubuque Regional AIDS coalition. In 2006 Kay was voted one of “100 Great Iowa Nurses”.

Kay loved cayenne pepper, reading, NASCAR, and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. Kay also enjoyed cooking and was very good at it; she was even voted Ms. Betty Crocker in high school. Above all, Kay treasured her time spent with family and the winters spent in Arizona with Roger.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Roger Auderer of Dubuque; son, Scott (Tammy) Auderer of Ankeny, IA; two granddaughters, Lauryn and Alexa Auderer of Ankeny, IA; sister, Mary Wright of Mesa, AZ; sister-in-law, Pam Cullen of South Milwaukee, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jim Cullen; and brother-in-law, Danny Wright.

A memorial has been established.

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

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