Obituaries Archive

Elizabeth A. Bell

Elizabeth A. “Libby” Bell, 63, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday morning, January 2, 2023, at home.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating “Libby’s” life will be held from 3 to 6 P.M., Friday, January 6, 2023.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Burial will be in the Bollinger County Memorial Cemetery, Marble Hill, Missouri at a later date.

Elizabeth Ann was born on August 7, 1959 in Advance, Missouri.  Her parents were Ivan Butry and Betty Joan Brotherton.  She was a graduate of Woodland R4 High School in Marble Hill, Missouri.  She married Myron O. Bell on April 5, 2009 in Clinton, Iowa, after a very long engagement.

“Libby” had first worked for Paramount Headwear Company in Marble Hill, MO.  She then was self-employed owning “Libby’s” Cleaning Service for ten years.  She later worked for Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and for J & P Cycles in Anamosa.  Then White Home Healthcare in Missouri, and lastly moved back to Iowa where she worked at Maquoketa Care Center until her retirement.

She enjoyed gardening, camping, motorcycle riding, quilting, and sewing, dining out at different places, and raising house plants.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Myron Bell of Maquoketa, IA; children, Anthony Dunivan and Ricky Jo Dunivan, both of Scott City, MO, Ian Ray (Kelly) Long of Marble Hill, MO, Rebecca Ann Long Bell of Scott City, MO, and Anthony Curtis Bell of Maquoketa, IA; 14 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; step-father, Milton Mehas of MO; siblings, Charlotte (Charles) Honeycutt of NC, Karen (Rick) Rodgers of Advance, MO, Greg (Tonya) Butry of Cape Girardeau, MO, Rhonda (Randy) Brown of Marble Hill, MO; and half-siblings, Lisa Myer, Evelyn  Fox, Linda (Glen) Williams, and Rodney (Janet) Beard, all of MO.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her uncle, and one cousin Donald Ray Brotherton.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Elizabeth A. “Libby” Bell memorial fund has been established.

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

Gwendolyn M. Barker

Gwendolyn Marie Barker, 73, of Woodman, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 18, 2022, following a short illness.

Gwen was born on July 11, 1949, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the daughter of Robert Bernard and Helen Ruby (Rennecker) Veach and later moved to Moline, IL, where she attended school. Gwen married Charles (Butch) Alan Barker and they had two children, Scott Alan and Rebecca (Becky) Lynn; the family lived in Moline, IL, Dubuque and St. Catherine’s, IA, and Woodman, WI. Butch preceded her in death on February 11, 2009.

Gwen was a homemaker and worked as a nurses’ aide for many years.

Gwen is survived by her children, Scott (Carrie) of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Becky of Woodman; four grandchildren, Ethan, Garrett (Alisa), Maddie, and Brennan Barker of Cedar Rapids; a great-granddaughter, Adalynn Daye; her brothers, Robert (Cathy) Veach of Moline, IL, and Scott (Melanie) Veach of Harrisburg, SD; sisters-in-law, Ruth Powell of Wilmington, CA, and Kathy Holmes of White Bluff, TN, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters, Marilyn Sells and Pam Keegan, and nephews, Joshua and Aaron Veach.

A private graveside burial and celebration of life will take place at a later date. According to her wishes, no public visitation will be held.

Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Prairie du Chien, WI, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Lyle M. Ott

Lyle M. Ott, age 82, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 2, 2023, at his home.  To honor Lyle’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday at Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Lyle was born on the family farm on June 30, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Milton L. and Bernita (Freiburger) Ott.

Lyle married Patricia J. McDermott on November 3, 1962, at Holy Ghost Church.  He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company and eventually retired at an early age from FDL Foods.  Throughout his life he enjoyed car racing, hunting, fishing, old car restorations, western movies, and many trips to Wyoming with all of his hunting buddies.  He enjoyed being outside in nature and puttering around in his garden.  Lyle had a knack for fixing anything that was broken.

Those left to cherish Lyle’s memory include

his daughter,
Tammy (Charlie) Hunt, Dubuque, IA;

a grandson,
Lyle (Amy) Hunt, West Des Moines, IA;

a granddaughter,
Lianna Hunt, San Diego, CA;

a great-granddaughter,
Ava Hunt, West Des Moines, IA;

his sister,
Lois Ott-Tarnutzer, Peosta, IA;

his nephews,
Clint Tarnutzer, Dubuque, IA
and Craig (Sherry) Tarnutzer, Denver, CO;

2 brothers-in-law,
John “Jack” McDermott
and Dan (Carol) McDermott, both of Dubuque, IA;

and 2 sisters-in-law,
Susan (Dwayne) Murphy
and Shirley McDermott, both of Dubuque, IA.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Patricia Ott; his grandparents, Lawrence and Carrie (Cartigny) Ott and Nick and Anna (Hess) Freiburger; his mother & father-in-law, John J. & Virginia (Morris) McDermott; 2 brothers-in-law, Donald Tarnutzer and Jim McDermott; and his sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Manuel) Echeagary, Rose (Paul) Rupp, Joann (John) Kegler and Dolores McDermott.

A special thanks to Sue and Dwayne for always looking out for dad.

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

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

William A. Frederick

William A. “Bill” “Tubb” Frederick, 96, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at home. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 3, 2023, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd, Dubuque.  Rev. Phillip Gibbs will officiate.  Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church.  Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Bill was born October 17, 1926, in Dubuque, the son of Carl and Mabel (Timberlake) Frederick.  He attended Dubuque Senior High School.  In October of 1944 at age 18 he enlisted in the Army during World War II and served in combat in the European Theatre of Operations, where he was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Battle Star.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #6. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Disabled American Veterans.

He married Arlette M. Meyer on May 28, 1949, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. They settled into a home on Queen Street where the first four of their five children were born.

They moved to Cassville, WI in 1958 to start a new adventure.  Before his retirement as plant manager in 1990, he was employed with Wisconsin Power & Light (now known as Alliant Energy) for 32 years at the Nelson Dewey Generating Station in Cassville where his kids were able to spend time fishing from the piers and Eagle-watching from the rooftop.

While living in Cassville, Bill was active in the community. He served on the Cassville Village Board of Trustees, the Harbor Commission, the Cassville Civil Defense Organization, and the Cassville Civics Club. He also served on the St. Charles Parish Council and was active in Cub Scouting and the annual Twin-O-Rama Twins Picnic.

After retiring back to the Asbury/Dubuque area in 1990, Bill was involved in many activities at the Church of the Resurrection in Asbury, including the annual car raffle.  He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #510, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, aerie No. 568.

In his spare time, Bill enjoyed golf, achieving a hole-in-one at the age of 72. He also enjoyed woodworking, making many beautiful pieces for his family, from cabinets to grandfather clocks to toys for grandkids. One of his greatest joys was gardening, and his family and friends enjoyed many tomato sammiches and juicy corn on the cob. Bill also enjoyed a good game of bridge or euchre, and he loved to read.  Most of all, Bill loved visiting with family and friends.

Bill is survived by four children, Stephen (Karen) Frederick of Kennesaw, GA, Barbara (John) Schwarz of Kenosha, WI, James Frederick of Cassville, WI, and Mark (Kari) Frederick of Cuba City, WI; grandchildren, Matthew Frederick, Jennifer (Matthew) Hampton, Margaret (fiancé Brad Smith) Frederick, Anthony (Stephanie) Schwarz, Nicholas (Sheena) Schwarz, John “JP” Schwarz, Paul Frederick, Anna (Jacob) Brox, John Frederick, and Kyle Frederick; 14 great grandchildren, Ander, Cayson, Pearcen, Ava, Luke, Caris, Juliet, Livia Arlette, James, Caden, Carter, Max, Nicholas Jr., and Emma “Li’l Okie”. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Alvestad of Vacaville, CA, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Arlette, on December 6, 2017, son Jeffrey, stepmother Christine (Darnauer) Frederick, a brother Gerald (Betty), sisters Viola (Fred) Thompson and Lila (Richard) Buchholz, brothers-in-law Bernard “Bear” Griffith, Leonard Meyer, and Gerald (Jeanne) Meyer, and good friend Jan Eudaley.

Memorials may be given to Hills & Dales, Resurrection Church, Hospice of Dubuque, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), or Assisi Village.

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, Village Caregivers, the Dubuque VA, and the entire staff at Assisi Village, who always treated Bill like a member of their family. They are all very special people for the difficult work they do and the incredible compassion they show.

Eugene J. Kelley Jr.

Eugene J. Kelley, Jr. died on December 3, 2022, due to complications of Parkinson’s disease. He was 85 years old.

Gene loved practicing law, art, sculpture, literature, theater, movies, music, athletics, and travel.  He combined his love of sports and travel by attending several of the Olympic Games with his wife, Anne Kelley.  In addition to his study and admiration of the arts and literature, he enjoyed creating sculptures and composing poetry. He was also greatly attached to his farmland in Elizabeth, IL.

He was born in Chicago, IL in 1937.  He grew up in Winnetka, IL, and attended New Trier Township High School, where he excelled as a wrestler before going on to earn a B.S. from the University of Notre Dame in 1959.  In 1963 he graduated with a J.D. from the Northwestern University School of Law, where he was the Winner of the American Jurisprudence Award for Trial Practice and Pleading.  Gene enjoyed a successful career as a commercial litigation attorney, serving as Partner and Co-Chair of the Litigation Group of Arnstein & Lehr LLP. In addition to the many cases he tried to verdict in both state and federal courts, he also won several major class action cases.  He was also an instructor for the Illinois National Conference on Consumer Finance, the Practicing Law Institute, and the American Bar Association, and served as an advisor to the members of the state’s largest risk pool, for which he was corporate counsel. He was a founding Board Member of the National Association of Dealer Counsel and was selected as a member of the Leading Lawyers Network of Illinois.  Gene also served as the President of the Condominium Board at 1212 N. Lakeshore Drive, where he resided with his wife Anne for 25 years prior to retiring to Galena, IL.  Aside from his career, one of Gene’s greatest accomplishments was preventing the Illinois Department of Transportation from building a “North Corridor” highway through Guilford Township.  He was also deeply committed to his work with feeding the homeless through Holy Name Cathedral and Catholic Charities, where he faithfully organized Thursday night dinners for 15 years.

Gene now joins Anne J. Kelley, his wife of 50 years, who passed in 2018.

He is survived by his daughter, Maria Kelley, and his son and daughter-in-law, Matthew and Fatima Kelley, and two grandchildren, Corinna and Zion Kelley, as well as his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Arnold, and his nieces and nephews, Colin Kelley, Tucker Kelley, Margaret Kelley, Marc Ferranti, Peter Ferranti, Paul Ferranti, Tom Ferranti, Mary Ferranti, and John Ferranti.

A memorial service for Gene will be held at the Catholic Church of St. Mary, 112 E. Washington Street, Elizabeth, IL at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 14, 2023.  A reception will follow at the DeSoto House Hotel, 230 S. Main Street, Galena, IL from 2 to 4 PM.

The Furlong Funeral  Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Name Cathedral, 750 N Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.  Please specify “dinner” in the memo.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

David J. Manternach

David J. Manternach, 87, of Monticello passed away Monday, January 2, 2023, at his home.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 am Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11 a.m.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery.

Dave was born on September 2, 1935, in Monticello the son of Norbert and Katherine (Muller) Manternach.  He served in the Army, stationed in Puerto Rico between September of 1954 and 1956.  He married Elaine Kopecky on April 8, 1961, in Clutier, Iowa.  Together they farmed near Monticello until retiring in 2001.  He enjoyed golfing, gardening, tinkering in the shop and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine, children: Patty (Greg) Sharp of Cedar Rapids, Linda (Al) Hartung of Dubuque, Diane (Kevin) Gray of Monticello, Duane (Sonya) Manternach of Monticello, and Kevin (Nicole) Manternach of Ely; 14 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; siblings: Phyllis Manternach, OSF of Dubuque, Dan (Joan) Manternach of Monticello, Jerry (Carolyn) Manternach of Anamosa, in-laws: Donna Manternach of Monticello.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother, Martha Manternach, infant sister, Rita, a sister, Christine Bertling and a brother, Norbert.

ramer Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials and cards may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, Iowa.

Patrick R. Sullivan

Patrick R. Sullivan, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, died Friday, December 30, 2022, at home peacefully in his sleep after dealing with dementia for many years.

The Mass for Christian Burial for Patrick will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 5, 2023, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church with Father Tom McDermott as the Celebrant.  Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church.   Burial will be in St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Tennyson, WI. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL, is serving the family.

Patrick was born on June 16, 1943, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, IA, the son of Francis and Margretta (Sendt) Sullivan.   He attended East Dubuque High School where he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football graduating in 1961 as class valedictorian.  He received a basketball scholarship from Loras College which he attended for one year prior to enrolling and serving two years in the US Army.   On August 6, 1966 – he married the love of his life, Judi Argus, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.   They enjoyed over 56 years of marriage and were blessed with 3 sons.    Patrick worked for Flexsteel Industries until his retirement.

He was a passionate advocate for Fastpitch softball which he spent 16 years playing as a catcher, and 25 years as an administrator with The International Softball Congress at the state and national level.   He played in a dozen ISC Word Tournaments and was selected to The ISC All-World tournament team as a catcher in 1969.  He was inducted into the Iowa Fastpitch Hall of Fame in 1992 and the International Softball Congress Hall of Fame in 1993.

His life was guided by his strong faith, love of family, and friendships.  He was a devoted husband and a mentor, coach, and role model for his three sons and nine grandchildren.  He greatly enjoyed his retirement years as “Papa”.  He always had fun golfing and playing euchre at Lacoma Golf Club.  He and Judi loved their Tuesday nights at the Moracco with the Weitzels, and especially all the times at the Shot Tower after Wahlert basketball games (and his Miller Lite with a glass of ice).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judi Sullivan, of Dubuque; 3 children, Joe (Catherine) Sullivan of St. Louis, MO, Dave (Amy) Sullivan of Denver, CO, and Mike Sullivan (Julie Shaw) of Dubuque; 9 grandchildren, Grace, Patrick, Emily, Claire of St. Louis, MO; Joseph, Ryan, Nicholas of Denver, CO; and Leah, Brooke Sullivan of Dubuque; and his siblings Betty Placke of Delavan, WI, Dan (Arlene) Sullivan of Iowa City, IA, and Mike (Joayne) Sullivan of East Dubuque, IL; his sisters-in-law, Charlene Stephens of Verona, WI and Joanne McGuire of Peosta, IA; and numerous family and friends.

He was preceded by death by his parents, his sisters-in-law, Nancy Patzner and Ruth Argus, and brothers-in-law, Robert McGuire and Dean Stephens.

A special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque (especially Ryan, Sara, and Amber) for your wonderful support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or The Sister Water Project at Mt. St. Francis.

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

Sandy Skahill

Sandy Skahill, of East Dubuque, IL 71, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 27, 2022. Sandy requested no visitation; a celebration of her life will be at a later date.

She graduated from Galena High School and went on to work for DB&T for many years and later for Cottingham & Butler as an executive assistant. After retirement she worked with her cousin and close friend, Michelle “shelly” Randecker at the Mississippi Abbey. She found peace working with and becoming a friend to the sisters.

She met her husband Patrick Skahill and they married on November 17, 1973, they had a daughter Angie and their adventures as a family began. She volunteered with numerous clubs when Angie was younger, including Marshall school and as a brownie leader.

Pat and Sandy just celebrated 49 years of marriage; they enjoyed numerous Harley rides and adventures together including Sturgis. One of the best adventures was becoming a grandmother and great grandmother.

In the summertime Sandy was seen on the back of Pat’s Harley, or in her garden or on the baseball fields, rain or shine watching Aiden play.

She enjoyed time with Heather and Lincoln when they visited; going through old photo albums or watching VCR tapes, made from the weekend trips to “nana and pakoo” all throughout their childhood. & yes, I said VCR tapes.

Wintertime you’d see sandy at the ice rink cheering on her favorite hockey player Keegan, all throughout his hockey career. She would often get out various picture books she carried with her at all times, showing off her grandchildren and great grandson Lincoln.

Recently we discovered scrapbooks she has for all the grandkids with their newspaper clipping, achievements, pictures and pretty much anything they scribbled on. We will enjoy the treasures she left. she will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Pat Skahill of East Dubuque, IL; their daughter, Angie (Steven Spiegelhalter) Skahill Lesch of Dubuque IA. Grandchildren: Heather, Keegan and Aiden, of Dubuque, IA and her great grandson Lincoln Russell. Her brothers: Harry Holloman, of East Dubuque, IL, and Jerry Jr, (Rosa) Holloman, of Washington, IL; her sister-in-law: Mary Benedict, brother-in-law, Michael (Barb) Skahill & her canine companion “Bear”.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and her brother-in-law.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be mailed to the funeral home in c/o the family of Sandy Skahill.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Skilled Nursing; the doctors and staff at MercyOne Medical Center and especially aunt mary “Annie” who has been there in more ways that can be explained for the family.

Leroy G. Abresch

Leroy G. Abresch, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 31, 2022, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday January 5, 2023, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, 5213 St. Catherine Road, with Fr. Dave Ambrosy officiating. Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, and also on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the start of Mass Thursday at the church. Burial will take place in St. Catherine’s church cemetery.

Leroy was born on May 15, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George and Iva (Cook) Abresch. He attended schooling until the eighth grade at Franklin School in Dubuque. He married the love of his life, Edna Wallenhorst, on October 29, 1960, at Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler, Wisconsin. Leroy was first employed at Dubuque Packing Company, then at Celotex Corporation as a heavy equipment operator for approximately 25 years and at Mount Saint Francis as a boiler operator. He was a member of the St. Catherine’s Parish since 1961 and volunteered for many parish activities and dinners.

He was an avid fisherman who loved enjoying the outdoors. He loved to camp and cut trees for his own firewood. Leroy also enjoyed gardening, traveling and loved his cats.

Leroy is survived by his children Deanna (Andy) Tomkins, Tim Abresch, William (Diem) Abresch, Steve Abresch, and Sara Bartella, grandchildren Matt, Danny, Stormie, Jessica, Sara, Danny, Jonathan, Adam, Billie Jo, Danny-Aaran, his many great grandchildren who all made him proud, brothers Pat and Dan Abresch, and many sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his wife Edna, parents George and Iva, grandson Steve Tomkins, granddaughter Michelle Abresch, and many siblings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Leroy Abresch family.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Ennoble for providing for Leroy and keeping him comfortable during his last days.

Nancy J. Rice

Nancy Jean Rice, 77, of Epworth, died Friday, December 30, 2022, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm Monday, January 2, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Nancy was born April 28, 1945, in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert W. and Violet H. Schweitzer Simon. On May 22, 1965, she married James Phillip Rice, Jr. in Dubuque. He died August 24, 2005.

Nancy was an executive secretary for Hillcrest Family Services.

She was of the Lutheran Faith. She enjoyed gardening, fishing, bonfires, word searches, and the farm life. She loved her dogs, Cash and Miranda, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include one daughter, Kelly S. (Bill Besler) Rice of Epworth, IA; one son, James P. (Joanne) Rice, III of Cottage Grove, MN; six grandchildren, Theodore J. Hoffmann, Ashlee N. Hoffmann, Shelby Rice, Bailey Rice, James Rice IV, and John Rice; one son-law, Gary Hoffmann of Epworth, IA; one brother, Robert Simon of Dubuque; one sister-in-law, Bonnie (Lyle) Connolly of Davenport, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Lori Hoffmann, and one sister-in-law, Kathy Simon.

The family wishes to thank the team at Unity Point Finley Hospital.

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

William F. Coty

William F. Coty, 86 of Galena and formerly Chicago, IL passed away Thursday, December 29, 2022, at his home. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Thursday, January 5, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena. Military honors will be accorded graveside by VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193 of Galena.

He was born January 31, 1936, in Chicago, IL, the son of John and Mary Coty. Bill attended Our Lady of Sorrows Grammar School and graduated from St. Mel’s High School both in Chicago. Following graduation, he was drafted and served in the United States Army until his honorable discharge. He was united in marriage to Margaret M. Polzin on May 6, 1967, at St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, Chicago and she preceded him in death on February 28, 2011. Bill served as a Chicago Police Officer until his retirement. He loved western movies and his pets. Bill was an avid Chicago Cubs and Bears Fan.

His children survive him, Michael Coty, Angela Coty, and Lou (Amy) Coty, three grandchildren, Brandon, Logan, and Jenna Coty, and his beloved companion, Buffy “Fluffy”.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife.

A special thank you goes out to Bill’s special McDonald’s club, Dr. Vandigo, Midwest Medical Center, the incredible people at Hospice of Dubuque, and amazing caregivers Amy Hendricks and Margo Pink. Bill Coty will be missed forever, but we know he will live in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. With warm regards, The Coty Family. The family requests donations are made to Hospice of Dubuque, St. Judes, or the Dubuque Humane Society in memory of Bill. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Carl J. Heisler

Carl J. “Hi-Speed” Heisler, 60 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on the same day that it began, December 28th at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

To celebrate Carl’s life a visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 4th, 2023, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Fr. Steven Rosonke Officiating. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery.

Carl was born on December 28, 1962, in Dubuque, Iowa, to James and Marjorie (Eike) Heisler. He graduated from Hempstead High School. Carl married his beautiful bride, Elizabeth, on February 2, 2002, and at the same time gained 4 teenage daughters and a thousand gray hairs. Carl was bigger than life, some even say a Legend.

No one lived the motto “Work Hard, Play Hard” more than Carl. He was a mason by trade but brought so much more to his craft than just laying brick. He was truly talented, an artist and a visionary that always had an idea -“Hey!” Carl was so much more than a boss to everyone who worked for him, he was a teacher, a role model and a mentor to so many.

When he wasn’t working you could find him with a cold beer in his hand and a Cubs game on TV or he could be found in one of his many favorite vacation locales, either snowmobiling or UTVing in Wyoming, fishing in Minnesota, or taking his Elizabeth somewhere warm over the winter.  He loved the mountains and especially loved sharing that love with everyone who joined him. In the fall he also enjoyed pheasant hunting with his family and hadn’t missed an opening day in 40 years. Carl was a cowboy at heart and had an affinity for John Wayne and George Strait. In his early years he had a passion for stockcars and his desire for tinkering never went away.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Carl include: his loving wife of 20 years, Elizabeth Heisler, Dubuque, Iowa; his 4 daughters, Tobey (Jon) Carroll, Dubuque, Iowa, Kristen (Brian) Cockroft, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Bess (Rick Weber) Hayes, Dubuque, Iowa, and Kellie (Jason) Hancock, Dubuque, Iowa. His 8 grandchildren, Jameson, Jackson, Parker, Sophie, Madison, Jordan, Harper, and Willow; his parents Jim and Marge (Eike) Heisler; his siblings, Lynn (Jeff) Goerdt, Dubuque, Iowa, and Gary Heisler, Dubuque, Iowa; along with his nieces Ellyn (Erik) Holzhuter, Karissa (Josh) Wernimont, Katie (Scott) Streif and nephew Ben Goerdt.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents Leander and Susan Eike, Marce and Lorraine Heisler, his father-in-law Robert Schauer and sister-in-law Sharon (Schauer) Hinz.

Carl’s family would like to thank all our family and friends who have provided such an outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Carl’s sudden absence from our physical lives has left many broken hearts behind. Your consideration and kindness have helped to bring some peace and healing into our days, and we cannot thank you enough for the role you’ve so generously played in that.

Thomas Bradley

Thomas Bradley, 86, of Green Valley, AZ, and formerly of Dubuque, IA, Downers Grove, IL, and Naperville, IL, died Sunday, December 18, 2022, in Tucson, AZ.

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:15 Saturday, January 7, 2022 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

Thomas was born July 1, 1936 in Dubuque,  the son of James and Mary (Kinsella) Bradley. His parents passed when Thomas was very young and was raised by his Aunt Ruth Klein. Thomas graduated from Loras Academy. He joined the United States Air Force and became an Air Policeman for almost 4 years, when he was honorably discharged and got an early release to attend school. He received his B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. In 1962 he married Patricia A. Saefkow at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on October 31, 2020.

Thomas was employed as a school teacher for 33 years for the Downers Grove School District before he retired.

He enjoyed traveling with his wife, antique vehicle shows, and his beer. He had a special love for his three dogs, Dusty, Ginger, and Cubby, and took great care of them every day.

Thomas is survived by his three sister in laws: Barb Stecklein, Karol Schmidt, and Judie Bettcher, all of Dubuque; and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his aunt Ruth; two brothers-in-law, Rich Stecklein and Tom Schmidt; and a nephew, Rhett Stecklein.

Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Marcia J. Smith

Marcia J. Smith, age 57, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Celina, OH, passed away peacefully on December 28, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center after a seven year struggle with Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.  To honor Marcia, a private celebration of life for family and close friends will be held at a later date.

Marcia was born on February 24, 1965, in Marshalltown, IA, a daughter to Gary and Jeannice (Kopecky) Ramsdell.  She grew up in the Dubuque area, and while attending Hempstead H.S., she developed a love for foreign language through her French teacher Mrs. Bateman. She was able to spend time in France as an exchange student at 17, making life long connections there. Marcia earned her Bachelor’s degree from Central College in Pella, IA, where she majored in French and English, and spent another semester abroad studying at the Sorbonne in Paris. She would later earn her Master’s in Education from Wright State University in Dayton, OH.  Her love for French and foreign languages would eventually lead her to become a teacher, teaching high school French and Spanish for 30 years.  She began her teaching career in Lexington Park, Maryland at Great Mills H.S. where she met her future husband, Charles “Chuck” Smith, an English teacher. They eventually moved to Ohio and both taught at Celina High School for 24 years while raising their daughter Camille. In 2019, Marcia and Chuck moved back to Dubuque to be closer to family.

Marcia was known by her loved ones as warm, thoughtful, witty, generous, and a bit mischievous. She loved her flower gardens, impressionist art, cooking and baking, 80’s new wave music, traveling, British mystery novels, and all things French. She especially loved to send mail to her friends and family for every occasion year-round. Marcia was dedicated to loving those around her through everything she did. Her absence will be felt in our hearts, but the love she instilled in our lives will forever remain. All who knew Marcia were lucky to be touched by her joyful and gentle spirit. We will always cherish the memory of her.

Marcia is survived by her loving husband, Charles “Chuck” Smith, Dubuque, IA; her adored daughter, Camille Smith, Chicago, IL; her siblings, Lynette (Ahmed) Shabana, Naperville, IL; Lea Ann (Tom Lattik) Ramsdell, Baltimore, MD; Gary (Lee-Ann) Ramsdell, Kissimmee FL; Sara (Tom) Goffinet, Dubuque, IA; and Jay (Shauna) Ramsdell, Lenexa, KS; a brother-in-law, Roger Smith, Winchester, OH; and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Marcia was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Marcia’s name to your local Alzheimer’s Association, or at ALZ.org.

And the family expresses special appreciation to the nurses and direct care staff at the Stonehill Franciscan Services Health Center Memory Unit, the Assisi Village Assisted Living Memory Unit, and at Home Instead Dubuque for their attentive and loving care of Marcia over the last couple of years. It is deeply appreciated.

The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Marcia’s family.

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

Christine M. Haupert

Christine M. “Chris” Haupert, age 63, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly at 12:29 p.m., on Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To honor her life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until the time of services at 6:30 p.m., on Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:30 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home with Rick Mihm officiating.  Burial will be at a later date in St. Catherine Cemetery.

Chris was born on January 16, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of William Phend and Carol Ann Milligan.

Chris attended school in Dubuque where she graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Haupert, on August 19, 1991, at the Gazebo in Washington Park.  They celebrated 31 years of marriage this year and have 2 wonderful sons together.  Chris was a hard worker who was employed with the casino for a couple years, Loras College for 12 years, Casey’s in Key West, Hilton Garden Inn for 16 years, and was currently working at the Casey’s in Asbury.  In her free time, Chris liked going to Bingo, playing games and watching movies.  Her family was always the most important aspect of her life.  She loved spending time with Dick and the boys and especially cherished time with her grandson.  We are truly heartbroken at losing our wonderful, wife, mom, grandma, sister and friend in our daily lives.  Chris will be greatly missed by her family, her friends and her dog, Molly.

Those left to cherish her memory include

her husband,
Richard Haupert, Dubuque, IA;

her sons,
Anthony Haupert,
and Matt Haupert, both of Dubuque, IA;

her grandson,
Carter Haupert, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Patty (Ron) Cowett, Clinton, IA,
Mike (Sharon) Cole, Clinton, IA,
Jerry (Jennifer) Cole, Des Moines, IA,
Ed Phend, Benton, WI,
Paul Cole, Dubuque, IA,
Mary Jo (Marty) Barsness Kroninger, Arizona
and Tim (Nicole Brant) Phend, Madison, WI;

and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Chris was preceded in death by her father, William Phend; her mother and step-father, Carol and Jerry Cole; her grandparents, Harold and Mildred Milligan; and a brother in infancy, William; and a sister, Shelly Harrison.

Chris’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of MercyOne’s Emergency and ICU departments, and all of the First Responders for all of their kindness and the compassionate care they provided for the entire family.

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

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