Obituaries Archive

William J. Stecher

William J. “Bill” Stecher, 78, of Centralia, passed away Friday, April 14, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, surrounded by his family. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 1:30 p.m. Mass of Chrisitan Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 19, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Peosta, and will be live-streamed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.  Fr. Michael Schueller will officiate.  Burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Centralia. Military honors will be accorded by Dubuque County Amvets Post #13. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Bill was born April 30, 1944 at home in Lattnerville, Iowa, the son of Carl and Grace (Biggin) Stecher. When Bill was 5 years old, the family purchased a farm in Centralia where he resided for another 45 years. Bill was raised in a strong Catholic family and in his youth served as an altar boy and later an usher and lector. Bill’s devout Catholic faith sustained him throughout his whole life. Bill graduated from Western Dubuque High School at Peosta in 1962 where he played basketball and baseball. Upon graduation, Bill proudly served in the Iowa Army National Guard from 1962-1968, and participated in the construction of the flood wall in Dubuque during his service. Bill briefly worked at Flexsteel and the John Deere Dubuque Works before committing to farming full time. He met Sharon Heacock at a dance at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds.  Sharon and Bill married on April 27, 1968 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque. Bill and Sharon owned and operated the dairy farm in Centralia for 25 years. Sharon preceded Bill in death on September 9, 2018, shortly after celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on April 27, 2018.

After retiring from farming, Bill was a forklift operator at Georgia Pacific in Dubuque for 10 years. He later worked part-time delivering flowers for Flowerama and the Locust St. Hy-Vee, where he made many friends.

Bill was a member of the Dubuque County Amvets Post #13, The Knights of Columbus Rural Peosta Council #5513, Key City Corvettes, and a life-long member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Bill retired after 30 years of dedicated service on the Centralia Fire Department. He was a faithful blood/platelet donor with over 125 donations to the American Red Cross. Bill was an enthusiastic Euchre player, and was always up for a game of cards with his friends. He had enjoyed hunting, picking walnuts, making wine, collecting antique toys, gardening, fishing with Sharon and his grandsons, making raspberry pie, the Iowa Hawkeyes, car shows, baked beans, and visiting with anyone and everyone. His greatest joy was spending time with his family.

Bill is survived by his children, Jody (Steve) Rausch, of Robins, IA, Kim (Calvin) Gilbert, of Cedar Rapids, and Al (Amy) Stecher, of Central City, IA; his grandchildren, Alex (Desirae Hesseltine) Himmelsbach, Austin Himmelsbach, Aaron Gilbert, and Jack and Jase Stecher; his great-grandchild, Wyatt Himmelsbach; his siblings, Tom (Suzanne) Stecher, of Peosta, and Suzanne Houselog, of Dubuque;  his sister-in-law, Shirley (Roger) Dalbkermeyer, of Dubuque, his sister-in-law, Sandy (David) Staat, of Lonoke, AR; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his wife, Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Sandra (Jack) Reimer; and his brother, Rev. Kenneth C. Stecher.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Centralia/Peosta Fire Department, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, or make a blood donation to the American Red Cross.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Mercy Medical Center for taking excellent care of Bill.

Barbara E. French

Barbara E. French, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 13th, 2023, at Bethany Home.

Barb was born on September 17, 1936, in Roanoke, Virginia, the youngest daughter of Proctor Clifton and Mary Emma Hurst. After graduating from William Fleming high school, Barb attended Longwood College and graduated with a degree in education and then later received her Master’s Degree in Speech Pathology. She married the love of her life, Thomas B. French, on July 1, 1961, in Roanoke, Virginia. After their marriage, Barb and Tom decided to take advantage of opportunities that took them to the West Coast for several years before arriving in Dubuque in 1970. Having new jobs and two young children, they decided that Dubuque seemed an ideal place to live, raise a family and put down their roots.

Barb will be remembered as a loving mother, great friend of many and an active member of the Dubuque community. She was a member and deacon at Westminster Presbyterian Church, served on the board at Mt Pleasant Home for many years and was a member of the auxiliary board of the Dubuque Symphony. She volunteered with Hospice of Dubuque, Du-ride, was a P.E.O. member and loved to play bridge with her friends. Barb loved to travel and she and Tom travelled often, visiting numerous countries. Their favorite trip was as passengers on a freighter which took them to many islands throughout the South Pacific.

Left to cherish her memories are her daughters, Mary French (Frank Hiltebrand) and Mel Darbyshire (Amanda Auger). She was preceded in death by her husband and her son, Vaughan.

Her family would like to extend its deepest gratitude to the staff of Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional care. Their kindness will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be directed to her family for a future charitable donation in her name.

Mike Switzer

Mike Switzer, 50, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, April 11, 2023.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Sunday, April 16, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Michael will be 10:30 am Monday, April 17, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dr. Kristian Kincaid officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Michael was born January 18, 1973, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Ronald Clarence Sr. and Eileen Marie Schmitt Switzer. On April 19, 1997, he married Denise Ella Curler. They later divorced.

He was a 1991 graduate of Hempstead High School.

Mike worked at Chicago Dubuque Foundry, before working as a shipping clerk at Bimbo Bakery where he worked for 26 years.

He was a member of the Bakery & Confectionary International Union and the GMP Motors Union 263-B. He loved to travel and go on road trips, either by motorcycle or car. His dream car was a 1969 Shelby GT Cobra. He was Dukes of Hazard fan and enjoyed watching car races and going to car shows at the fairgrounds, and finding Harley Davidson stores. On a warm sunny day, you would find Mike on his motorcycle for a ride and listening to music. He never knew a stranger but if you were, you wouldn’t be for long.

Survivors include Denise Switzer of Peosta, his ex-wife who he had a special relationship with; two daughters, Samantha Kay Curler-Switzer and Madalyn Elaine Lee Switzer, both of Peosta; his mother, Eileen Switzer of Dubuque; one brother, Ronald Clarence (Michelle) Switzer, Jr. of Dubuque; one sister, Cynthia (Tim) Schueller of Epworth; two brothers-in-law, Roger “Mike” (Cynthia) Curler of Dubuque, and James Curler of Platteville, WI; and two nieces, Nicole (Cody) Schmitt of Durango, and Tiffani (Kyle) Switzer of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Alexia, his father, Ronald, and his father- and mother-in- law, Roger and Sandra Curler.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family thanks the East Dubuque Police Department for their help and special family friend, Jenny Dazey, for her care and support. Also, thank you to Ben Roth at Roth Law Office, Adam & Theresa at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen, the staff at Dubuque Golf and Country Club, Dupaco, and Phil Watson Law Firm for helping us through this time.

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 Mike’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

John R. Kreiman

John R. “Jack” Kreiman passed away on April 10, 2023, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows.

Funeral services will be at 11:30 a.m., Monday, April 17, 2023, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 4:00-7:00p.m., Sunday, April 16, 2023 at the funeral home and from 10-11:15 a.m., Monday at the funeral home.

Jack was born on March 4, 1939 to Melvin (Pat) and Audrey Kreiman.

He was united in marriage to Rozanne Adams in 1961. She preceded him in death in 1997. Together they had four children.

He later married JoAnn Hart.

Jack owned and operated Dubuque Wilbert Vault company for many years.

Jack was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman. He once shot a hole-in-one two Sundays in a row on the same hole.

He was a member of Lacoma Golf Course for 50 years. He was also a member of the Dubuque Moose Lodge #355.

Jack is survived by his wife, JoAnn Hart; children, Barbara (KennedY Nwacha of Glen Carbon, IL, Cindi Kreiman of Edwardsville, IL, and John (Julie) Kreiman of Bigfork MT. He is also survived by four grandchildren, Andrew Nwacha, Zackary, Maxwell, and Zoe Kreiman.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, first wife Rozanne; and an infant daughter, Kathleen.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or a charity of your choice.

Jack’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and the employees at Grand Meadows for their care and compassion.

Loren M. Rice, II

Loren M. Rice, II, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 8, 2023, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To honor Loren’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be held in Harvard, IL, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Loren’s family.

Loren was born on May 20, 1947, in Harvard, IL, a son to Loren and Barbara (Hoey) Rice, Sr.  He spent his formative years making plans for his future life and after high school, was united in marriage to the love of his life, Shirley Loudenbeck, on February 5, 1966.  The couple was blessed with 57 wonderful years together on one son, Loren III.  In their early years, Loren enjoyed go-cart racing with his son during his free-time, while he and Shirley owned and operated Cash and Save Oil Company in Harvard, IL.  They ran this business for many years before Loren began his second stage in life.  At the age of 35, Loren turned his life over to Christ and the mission field that was laid before him finally came into vision.  He faithfully served as the Director of Mens Crisis at the Rockford Rescue Mission, along with his role as a case manager at the Phoenix Rescue Mission while they lived in Arizona.  Loren’s heart was that of a humble servant and it was continually on display for all to witness him as a living testament to the salt and light we are asked to be in this world.  He found a natural drive and affinity for the least among us and his determination to comfort and protect them to the best of his abilities within the confines of this broken world was truly a gift whom many have benefited from throughout his years of service.  He also served as a Baptist Minister within multiple congregations over the years, always allowing the Lord to lead him where he was not only needed, but could be used in the most fruitful of ways.  He has been a member of the New Life Baptist Church in Dubuque since they moved here and continued his mission field within the congregation whenever possible.  Loren was also a talented artist who enjoyed painting and creating when time allowed.  Many of his projects are proudly displayed in their home today and will surely help to bring some peace into the hearts and minds of his family as they begin the journey of moving forward without Loren’s physical presence by their side.  Thank you, Loren, for being the man the Lord placed you here to be, for hearing His call, and for leading with humility.  May the Lord hold you securely now in His eternal state of grace as you rest from your labors and obtain the crowns and rewards laid up for you.  We will miss you more than you could know, but are forever grateful for the time God was gracious enough to share you with us and will wait patiently until we are able to see you again.   Well done Thy good and faithful servant, well done!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Loren include,

his loving wife of 57 years,
Shirley Rice, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Loren Rice, III, Dubuque, IA;

along with many extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Loren was preceded in death by his parents.

Loren’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care, along with Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care over these last weeks.  Your sincere love and attention have surely brought some peace when most needed and for that we are eternally grateful.

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

Rhonda Basham

Rhonda Basham, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on April 5, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center, surrounded by her dear friends.  To honor Rhonda’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rhonda’s family.

Rhonda was born on October 12, 1952, in Woonsocket, South Dakota, a daughter to Benjamin W. and Eleanor R. (Hardman) Basham.  She was a kind and gentle soul who took each day with whatever it had to offer.  In her younger years, Rhonda enjoyed singing in the school choir and she carried that joy throughout her entire life.  Her love for others was continually on display and her abilities at the craft table have left countless items for those in her life to continue to enjoy for years to come.  Rhonda made many friends along the way and some of her favorite hours spent at Cozy Corners were surely no exception.  Lovingly referred to as her “home away from home”, Rhonda valued every soul she met there and the time she was able to spend with them.  Her friends at the Roosevelt West Senior Apartments were also among her greatest treasures in her daily life and the memories they made together were priceless indeed and will definitely help to heal the broken hearts she leaves behind.  Our hearts break today as we now must face the days ahead without Rhonda’s sweet spirit walking among us.  May the Lord grant her eternal peace now as we also seek peace in our loss.  Thank you, Rhonda, for sharing with so many the abundant love you possessed and may your legacy live vividly in our hearts and minds until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rhonda include,

her daughters,
Julie Lewelling, Ohio,
and Lynn Birch, Iowa;

her 9 grandchildren;

her siblings,
Ben, Rapid City, South Dakota,
Jeff, Harding, Texas,
Jim, Ivanhoe, Minnesota,
and Wilma, Yacaipa, California;

along with numerous extended family and dear friends and neighbors at the Roosevelt West Senior Apartments and Cozy Corners.

Rhonda was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Susan; her granddaughter, Carrie Anne; and her brother, LeRoy.

Rhonda’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Your generous amounts of love and patience truly help to bring some peace into Rhonda’s last days among us and we pray that the Lord will be gracious enough to bless you all for your kindnesses!

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

Charles E. Steffen

Charles “Chuck” Edward Steffen, 70, of Waukon, Iowa, and formerly of Dubuque, passed away on Sunday April 9, 2023, at the Gunderson Hospital in La Crosse, Wisconsin.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday April 14, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home with Deacon Bill Biver officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Family Cemetery in New Melleray.

Chuck was born on October 13, 1952, in Dubuque, son of Jerome and Lorraine (Brummer) Steffen. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. On May 9, 1997, he married Nancy Jo Fultz in Dubuque. He worked for Georgia Pacific in Dubuque for 25 years, and later owned and operated Tony’s Place in Dubuque. He was a member of the Steelworkers Local #1861, as well as the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed playing cards, especially euchre and cribbage. He also loved being outdoors, hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, two sons Michael (Jessica) Steffen and David (Jessica) Steffen, both of Texas, five grandchildren Kaitlin, Sierra, David, and Elizabeth, three stepchildren Rob, Karen, and Kevin, his sisters Kay Oberhoffer, Sharon Frommelt, and Nancy (Michael) Felton, brother Jerome “Jerry” (Marge) Steffen, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers-in-law Michael Oberhoffer and Kent Frommelt.

The family would like to thank all the health care professionals who helped care for Chuck over the years.

Kimberly A. Larson

Kimberly Ann Larson, 64, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at Bethany Home on April 11, 2023.

Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m., Friday, April 14, 2023, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. A visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Friday at the church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Kim was born August 28,1958 in Keokuk, IA to Robert and Delores Crockett. She graduated from Clinton High School in Clinton, IA in 1976 and went on to attend the University of Iowa where she earned her teaching degree graduating in 1980. On November 28, 1987 she married Loren G. Larson in Clinton, IA. Together, they settled in Dubuque where they started a family. Kim ran the Country Kitchen restaurant for many years until 2008. She thoroughly enjoyed working with all of the customers and employees. Kim loved to travel, shop, golf, play bridge and attend her kid’s various activities. She had a special love of the Iowa Hawkeyes and attended many football and basketball games over the years.  Through a myriad of serious illnesses Kim always kept a positive attitude and never lost her sense of humor. As a couple Kim and Loren lived their vows and loved each other unconditionally in sickness and in health. She will be greatly missed by her friends and family who are thankful for the extra time that they were given with her.

She is survived by her children, Alexander Larson and Elizabeth Larson; brother David (Jeannine) Crockett; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Loren G. Larson.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905.

Kim’s family would like to extend a special thank you to her doctors at Mayo Clinic and Medical Associates, Hospice of Dubuque and especially Bethany Home for their wonderful, compassionate care given to her over the last 4 years.

Funeral services will be 11:30 a.m., Friday, April 14, 2023, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, with Rev. Matthew Agee officiating. A visitation will be held from 8:30 to 11:15 a.m. Friday at the church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Kim was born August 28,1958 in Keokuk, IA to Robert and Delores Crockett. She graduated from Clinton High School in Clinton, IA in 1976 and went on to attend the University of Iowa where she earned her teaching degree graduating in 1980. On November 28, 1987 she married Loren G. Larson in Clinton, IA. Together, they settled in Dubuque where they started a family. Kim ran the Country Kitchen restaurant for many years until 2008. She thoroughly enjoyed working with all of the customers and employees. Kim loved to travel, shop, golf, play bridge and attend her kid’s various activities. She had a special love of the Iowa Hawkeyes and attended many football and basketball games over the years.  Through a myriad of serious illnesses Kim always kept a positive attitude and never lost her sense of humor. As a couple Kim and Loren lived their vows and loved each other unconditionally in sickness and in health. She will be greatly missed by her friends and family who are thankful for the extra time that they were given with her.

She is survived by her children, Alexander Larson and Elizabeth Larson; brother David (Jeannine) Crockett; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Loren G. Larson.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, MN 55905.

Kim’s family would like to extend a special thank you to her doctors at Mayo Clinic and Medical Associates, Hospice of Dubuque and especially Bethany Home for their wonderful, compassionate care given to her over the last 4 years.

Mark A. Goetzinger

Mark A. “Captain Mark” Goetzinger, 68, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at home on April 7th, 2023.

Friends and family may visit from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday April 13th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Sharing Service will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Mark was born on October 18th, 1954, son of Charlies and Gladys (Donatsch) Goetzinger. He was one of eight kids.

He used to drive truck with Roadway, and he also opened his own business in Dyersville: “Goetzinger Electronics.” When he moved to Dubuque he worked at the Telegraph Herald for many years, then went to IBM where he retired. After retirement he didn’t stop or slow down. He loved to stay busy spending time with family, his girlfriend Sue, and his many friends – especially on the river. He was also an avid dancer and went dancing anytime he could! I’m sure everyone would agree that when they think of Mark, they see his big smile and hear his laugh (he always enjoyed a good laugh). He seemed to make friends wherever he went and was loved by so many. He absolutely loved hanging out with his grandkids. Mark was a big kid at heart, so there was always fun to be had…and trouble, too!

Mark is survived by his children Tracy (Andy) Benson, Angela Scharpf, and Jacob (Sherry) Goetzinger, grandchildren Destiny Goetzinger, Jack Scharpf and Ben Scharpf, his mother Gladys Strachan, and siblings Marianne Dorsey, Charlotte Smith, Rose Schaepe, and Grace Borrows.

He was preceded in death by his dad, Charlie, his second mom Irene Goetzinger, and siblings Joan Goetzinger, Paulene Steele, and David Goetzinger.

In lieu of flowers, a Mark Goetzinger Memorial Fund has been established.

Thank you to all the friends and family who have reached out in support!

Richard J. Udelhofen

Richard J. Udelhofen, 76, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, passed away Monday, April 10, 2023, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 14, 2023, at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in St. Rose of Lima Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 9-10:45 a.m. Friday at the funeral home prior to the service.

Richard was born on April 2, 1947 in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Francis “Sank” and Jean (Ryan) Udelhofen. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. Richard was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary “Sue” Laufenberg, on October 11, 1969, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City. She preceded him in death on June 22, 2003.

Richard was a parts manager at Runde Chevrolet for 31 years, both at East Dubuque and Cuba City. He was an avid fisherman who loved bass fishing with family and friends. Richard enjoyed Wisconsin Badgers sports and liked watching games. He liked to watch the little animal friends that he fed and enjoyed on his back patio. Richard was always willing to help his neighbors. He enjoyed spending time with his two grandsons, Austin and Devin, and special niece, Shawna.

Richard is survived by his son, Rich (Laura) Udelhofen, Platteville, WI; two grandsons, Austin Udelhofen, Benton, WI, and Devin Udelhofen, Platteville, WI; a special niece and goddaughter, Shawna Laufenberg, Cuba City; three sisters, Sr. Mary Jean Ryan, SSM, St. Louis, MO, Joan Brown and Joyce Farrey, both of Cuba City; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary “Sue” Udelhofen; his parents, Francis and Jean Udelhofen; two brothers-in-law, Donald Brown and Ralph “Sonny” Farrey; and a nephew, Donnie Brown. 

The family would like to thank Christy Willis and the staff of Medical Associates, Cuba City, and the staff of 3West of MercyOne Dubuque.

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

Norma M. Brimeyer

Norma M. Brimeyer, age 88, of  Sherrill, Iowa, passed away suddenly and peacefully in her sleep on Easter morning, Sunday April 9, 2023 at home.  To honor Norma’s wishes private family services and burial will be held at Ss. Peter & Paul Church in Sherrill. Behr Funeral Home is assisting her family.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Norma was born on April 14, 1934, in Wisconsin, daughter of Jack and Ida (Maring) Weisenberg.

We lost a beautiful soul.  She was an excellent baker and cook, and loved baking.  Everything was made from scratch and she could literally make something out of nothing. Over the years she made hand-made quilts for all of her family, and they are beautiful.  She also crocheted and knitted lovely doilies and scarves.  Norma was incredibly talented and enjoyed many craft projects.  She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Those left to cherish Norma’s memory include
her children;
Reynold Brimeyer,
Karen (Russell) Duve,
Elaine (Tom O’Shea) Fortmann,
John Brimeyer,
Alan Brimeyer, all of Dubuque.

19 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren;

Norma was preceded in death by her parents;
her husband, Gilbert;
a sister, Leila Maring;
a brother, Duke Weisenberg;
3 daughters,
Linda Bauer, Janice Baxter and Mary Brimeyer

Norma’s family would like to extend a special thank-you to Dr. Herman for his care during her illness, as well as Dr. Obbink and Dr. Runde for all their care.

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

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

Donald A. Guler

Donald A. “Don” Guler, 88, of Dubuque passed away Saturday April 8, 2023, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until noon with a funeral service beginning at noon on Thursday, April 13, 2023, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Karen Candee officiating.  Military Honors will follow by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery.

Don was born on February 7, 1935, in Dubuque, the son of Donald and Idel (Atkinson) Guler. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then entered the U.S. Navy along with his brother (Loren) and served from 1954 to 1958. After his service he returned to Dubuque and on May 23, 1958, he married Ellen Glasson at Summit Congregational UCC Church. He worked in construction with his dad and brother for a few years before he began his 30-year career with the Milwaukee Railroad until his retirement.

He was an avid antique tractor puller and attended and pulled in many events with the Hawkeye Antique Tractor Club along with his brother-in-law Carl Finzel. He also enjoyed traveling, especially the trips to Georgia (Tony) and California (Doug) to enjoy family time.

He is survived by his wife Ellen, three sons Doug (Shari) Guler of Folsom, CA, Tom (Judy) Guler of Dubuque, and Tony (Leslie) Guler of Grovetown, GA, four grandchildren Logan, Austin, Chloe, Nathan, two sisters Nancy Finzel of Hazel Green, and Ellie (Ron) Craff of Dubuque, a sister-in-law Mary “Pat” Guler of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Loren Guler, and a brother-in-law Carl Finzel.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor Grand Meadows especially his niece Jessica Konrardy, along with Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they gave to Don.

Marlene M. Melssen

Marlene M. Melssen, 86, of Dubuque, died Friday, April 7, 2023 at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:30 pm Friday April 14, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marlene will be 10:00 am Saturday, April 15, 2023 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

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 Marlene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com

Elaine P. Russell

Elaine P. Russell, 79, of Dubuque, died Saturday, April 8, 2023, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Thursday, April 13, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Elaine will be 11:00 am Thursday, April 13, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Elaine was born January 6, 1944, in Dubuque, the daughter of Joseph and Marcella (Regan) McGeough. On January 18, 1964, she married the love of her life, Royce L. Russell, in St. Raphael Cathedral.

She graduated from St. Raphael Cathedral and the former Visitation Academy both in Dubuque.

She was a CNA at St. Dominic Villa for many years.

Elaine loved shopping, sweets, playing the slots at the casino, and going to church. She was a very caring and giving person, who cherished time with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her loving husband of 59 years, Royce; two daughters, Michelle (Allen Hirashiki) Russell of San Ramon, CA, and Stephanie (Marc) Viertel of Dubuque; one granddaughter, Megan (Mason Bauer) Viertel of Dubuque, one grandson, Nathan Viertel of Dubuque; and one Aunt, Lavonne Kerth of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother, Robert McGeough.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Dubuque County Humane Society and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The family would like to thank the Finley Hospital ER and ICU staff for their amazing care, as well as Chaplain Claudia Dorsch.

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 Elaine’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kathryn Sloan

Kathryn “Kay” Sloan, 97, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Mass of Christian Burial for Kay will be held on Monday, April 10, 2023 at 10AM at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Visitation will be at the church from 8:30a.m.-9:45a.m. Burial will follow the Funeral Mass in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Kay was born on April 19, 1925, to Philip and Emma (Zweibohmer) Etteldorf in Festina, Iowa. She was the oldest of five girls who she helped raise after her mother passed away when she was fourteen.

She was united in marriage to Donald W. Sloan on October 30, 1954 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Festina, Iowa. He preceded her in death on February 26, 2006.

Kay dedicated her life in service to others, spending her entire working career initially at Xavier then at Mercy Hospital until her retirement. Even in her retirement, Kay continued to volunteer at Mercy Hospital.

Kay was proud of her 60+ year membership at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church where she was actively involved in many organizations and committees over the years. She volunteered in both the Girl and Boy Scouts, the American Heart Association, and the American Cancer Society. She was also a member of the Stonehill Auxiliary. Even with all her volunteering, she was never too busy to play a game of golf, dominos, bridge, or any activity that involved getting together with family and friends. She loved to plan gatherings and always made sure there was room for anyone who might be alone.

Kay is survived by her children, Steven (Julie) Sloan of Dubuque, Sue Sloan Coffrin of Williston, VT; grandchildren, Philip Sloan of Dubuque, Katie (Dan) McCabe of Iowa City, IA, Stephanie (Luke) Flamich of Dubuque, Benjamin Sloan of Dubuque, Nikolas (Cat) Coffrin of Stowe, VT, Daniel Coffrin of Portland, Maine, Alexander Coffrin of Boston, MA, and William Coffrin of Boston, MA. Kay is also survived by her four great-grandchildren, Emilia Coffrin, Dylan Coffrin, Norah Flamich, and Cameron McCabe.

Along with her husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Peter Coffrin.

Kay’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Julie, Stacy, and Amber from Hospice of Dubuque and Carol from the Rose for all the care and compassion given to Kay. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Kay requested that no flowers be sent.  Any memorials will be donated to some of Kay’s favorite charities. She would request that you follow her lead and be a friend to all you meet.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.