Obituaries Archive

Julitta M. Rokusek

Julitta “Jill” M. Rokusek, 95, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 30, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jill will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Julitta was born April 1, 1930, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Oscar and Florence (Bode) Slaats. She married John “Jack” J. Rokusek on July 5,1952. They were the proud parents of three daughters, Jan Marie, Jeralyn “Jeri”, and Jolene, and one son, Jay. Jack preceded her in death in 2018, and Jay in 1986.

There are not many people in the Dubuque area that Jill did not know. So many of you have touched Jill’s life in a positive way and she graced you with hers–her presence brought an energy that made it clear that “Jill was in the building.” Jill lived faithfully, loved deeply and gave generously. She led a very fulfilling life and was most uplifted if there was something she said or did that brought a smile to your face, made you laugh, or just made you feel good about yourself.

She was an active member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She was one of the first to be installed as Eucharistic Minister, and also ministered to the elderly and shut-ins. She was also a cross bearer at funerals. Jill was a member of the Alter and Rosary Society, a mentor at Holy Trinity School, and a member of the Seven Sisters Apostolate. She was active in the Prayer Line of the Holy Spirit Parish. Jill was also an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for over 60 years. She attended mass daily, and if she could not get to church, she watched mass on TV.

Jill was known as the “Hat Lady of Dubuque and Tri-States.” She enjoyed presenting “Creative Hat and Fashion Shows” for over 40 years. One of her highlights was presenting a hat show at the Governor’s Mansion in Des Moines, IA. Her biggest joy was giving all of her proceeds to charity, especially to Rev. Thomas Vos, a former pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church who built the first Catholic church in the Appalachian Mountains.

In her early years, Jill tap-danced with her three daughters and performed in several shows. Her love for tapping resurfaced as she tapped with musical performers at Stonehill.

Survivors include her three daughters, Jan Mussmann of Guttenberg, IA, Jeri (Terry) Noonan of Edmond, OK, and Jolene (Dave) Goedken of Potosi, WI; three grandchildren, Michelle Spadin, Angie Spadin, and Casey (Nikki) Noonan; two great-grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary Friedley; and two brothers, Merlin (Doris) Slaats, and Roger (Mary) Slaats.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son; one brother, Guerdon (Donna) Slaats; one sister, Betty (Jerome) Kuepers; one brother-in-law, Cletus (Germaine) Rokusek; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Lucille Rokusek.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name.

Jill’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of those who have had a positive presence in her life.

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

Thomas J. Becker

Thomas J. “Tom” Becker, age 80, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 26, 2025, at MercyOne in Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Tom’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on December 9, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Joseph and Margaret (Leppert) Becker.

A man of strength and dedication, Tom was the foundation of his family. He worked tirelessly throughout his life, often holding two jobs to ensure his family never went without. His work ethic was unmatched, but he never let it get in the way of what mattered most to him, his loved ones.

Tom had a gift for cooking that brought the family together around the table. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple dinner, the meals he prepared were truly made with love.

Tom had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in hunting and fishing, a passion he loved sharing with his children and grandchildren. He also had a deep love for country music, which reflected his values of strong family ties, love, and hard work.

Throughout the years, he loved watching and attending NASCAR races and cheering for his favorite driver, Bill Elliott. His love for family extended beyond everyday moments to countless vacations and memorable trips.

Tom had a natural warmth and loved a good conversation, able to talk to anyone he encountered. He was always ready to share a story or lend a hand.

He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished friend, a loyal brother, and a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved his wife, Lois, with all his heart, and they were married for nearly 60 years. Being a father and grandfather was one of the greatest joys of Tom’s life.

Known for his honesty and fairness, Tom’s genuine spirit touched the hearts of many. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Those left to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his two sons,
Brian (Tammy) Becker, Dubuque, IA,
and Randy (Michelle) Becker, Mitchell, S.D.;

his six adored grandchildren,
Adam (Chloe) Becker, Autumn (Tyler) Ernzen, Dakota Becker, Alyssa Becker, Kira Hunter, and Nathan Hunter;

his four great-grandchildren,
Ozzie Ernzen, Gianna Becker, Isabella Becker, and Gabby Becker;

his sister,
Kathy (Merlin) Dalsing, Hazel Green, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of almost 60 years, Lois Becker; and his brother, David (Ginnie) Becker.

Tom’s family would like to thank Dr. Finch, along with the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, especially Shelly, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Larry J. Bramer

Larry J. Bramer, 80 of Baldwin, Iowa died on Thursday May 29, 2025 at the VA Hospital Hospice in Des Moines, Iowa.

Larry John Bramer was born on May 29, 1945, in Maquoketa, Iowa to Lyle and Viola Bramer.  He grew up on a farm in Monmouth, Iowa.  He graduated from Midland High School in 1963 & University of Northern Iowa in 1972 with a degree in Business and Marketing. After high school Larry enlisted in the Air Force in 1964 and spent time in the Philippines and Vietnam during the Vietnam war. Larry married Linda Wallroff on August 22, 1970, at Baldwin Catholic Church. They together had 2 children, Brian and Kimberly.  They later divorced.

Larry worked for International Harvester in Des Moines and Bettendorf until 1978.  He then bought into a partnership with Dostal & Waters Implement in Maquoketa, Iowa until 1986.  He then went on to work for Ron Mohr farms for several years and was also the director of Jackson County Veterans Affairs for 18 years in Maquoketa, Iowa until he retired in 2000.

Larry was also a member of Lubben Kegley Post 513 of Baldwin, Iowa. He had a passion for Nascar and his favorite driver Jeff Gordon.  He took things a step further and decided to take on racing his own car for many years with Jess Shady and Logan Marr in Maquoketa.  He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his kids/grandkids and great grandkids.

Those left to honor Larry’s memories are his children: Brian (Tracy) Bramer, Monmouth, IA, Kimberly Bramer, Maquoketa, IA.  His siblings: Carol Ann Mitten, Auroa, CO, Terry (Airene) Bramer, Mt. Vernon, IA, Nancy (Charlie) Updegraff, Cedar Rapids, IA, Gary Bramer, Baldwin, IA. There are 6 grandchildren: Sasha (Chris), Brittney, Dakota, Timothy, Brilee, Kailee(Trevor), Cayden (Jaeden) and 6 great grandchildren: Alivia, Brooklyn, Remington, Nayvee, Ledger, Blaze and his prize possession, “Sammy” the cat.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Alan Mitten.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A memorial visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial with military honors will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at Franzen’s shop on Hwy 64 in Monmouth, IA.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy a Larry J. Bramer memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at WWW.Carsonsandsons.com.

Owen S. Skott

Owen S. Skott, 80, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at home.

Owen Steven Skott was born on November 16, 1944, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Oskar T. and Camilla M. (Owen) Skott.  He grew up on the family farm half a mile south of the Buckhorn Creamery.  Owen helped with the farming operation and eventually moved to the Imagine The Possibilities Home in Maquoketa.

Owen was a very gentle and kind person.  He enjoyed working at the recycling and assembling jobs at Imagine The Possibilities.  He also enjoyed traveling with his friends at Imagine The Possibilities, especially his trips to Branson, Missouri, and was a huge Iowa Hawkeyes fan.

Those left to honor his memory include a brother, Craig Skott of Clear Lake, IA; and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

LeRoy J. Robey

LeRoy J. Robey, 85, of Dubuque died Tuesday, May 27, 2025.  Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, June 2, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, followed by a funeral service Monday at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

LeRoy was born January 13, 1940 in Dubuque, son of Kirtland and Pearl (Witter) Robey.

LeRoy grew up in Dubuque. He spent many years living in ARC group homes, Dubuque Specialty Care, and most recently at Sunnycrest Manor. He was a joyful, happy man who made friends easily and was much loved by all who knew him.

He attended Dubuque Community Church.

LeRoy loved going fishing with his fishing buddies, Jim Potter and Carl Sieverson.

He is survived by nieces and nephews.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his brothers, Stanley and Harlan Robey; and sisters, Marigold Patters, Adele Knuckle, and Lila Marshall.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sunnycrest Manor for their wonderful care and making LeRoy “one of the family.”

Nancy H. Maury

Nancy Hope (Neises) Maury passed quietly in her home on May 28th, 2025, under the care of her husband of 45 years, Dennis Elbert Maury and her eldest daughter, Terry Lynn Holloway, both of Lancaster, WI.  To honor Nancy’s life, a graveside service will be held at St. Charles Cemetery in Cassville, WI, at a later date.

She is survived by her daughters,
Kelly Marie Holloway of Quincy, IL,
and Hope Lee (Rob) Breuer of Neillsville, WI,

her son,
John Joseph (Linda) Holloway of Gastonia, NC.

her sister,
Joan Neises, Lancaster, WI;

She is also survived by two nieces, a nephew, several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded by her parents, Joseph and Florence Neises of Cassville; her father and mother-in-law, Elbert (Ruth) Maury; her granddaughter, Trista Mumm; her great-granddaughter, Natalee Jo Mumm; and her brother-in-law, Dan Maury.

She was a loving mother and devoted wife.  She will be missed and never forgotten.

Online condolences for Nancy’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Sharon Loewen

Sharon “Bunny” Loewen, 88, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

Bunny was born on May 1, 1937, in Dubuque, IA to Leo and Loraine (Lyttle) Baumann. She attended Holy Trinity grade school and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in 1955, both in Dubuque. She Married Aloysius “Fritz” Loewen on June 29, 1957.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Company before she became a stay-at-home mom. She later became a part owner of the Yarn Over Shoppe before retiring. She enjoyed her daily trips to the casino with Fritz and her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Fritz, a daughter Lori (Randy) Childers; grandchildren, Lindsay (Jake) Majerus, Adam (Ashley) Childers; great-grandchildren, Landon and Reese Majerus, Aiden and Autumn Childers; sister Karen Nickolas; and nephew, Arnie Nickolas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Loraine Baumann; brothers-in-law, Arnold Nickolas, Don (Mary) Hocking, Carl (Anna Mae) Loewen, Maury (Shirley) Loewen, Clarence (Elaine) Loewen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Home Instead Healthcare and Jamie and Ann with Hospice of Dubuque.

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon, a beacon of pure love and joy, graced this earth for a brief but impactful eight months. Born in Iowa City, Iowa on September 4, 2024 to the loving arms of her parents, Roger Travis-Xavier and Denise Christina (Riniker) Bunyon, Connie was a cherished gift to all who knew her. She inherited not only her name from her beloved paternal grandmother Connie and her aunt Elvira but also their spirit of resilience and courage. She has two special birthday buddies, her Uncle Danny & Grandpa Alvin who were also born on Sept. 4th. On May 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family, Connie passed away in Iowa City, Iowa, due to complications from Trisomy 18.

From the moment of her birth, brought immeasurable happiness to her family. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she met each day with strength and determination, teaching those around her the true meaning of perseverance.

Connie’s parents, Roger and Denise, along with her extended family, cherished every moment spent with her. She was a constant reminder of the preciousness of life and the bonds that tie us together.

Connie is survived by her parents, Roger and Denise Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Andre, Sadie, and Elizabeth Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA, and Ishmael, Isaiah, Xavier, Roger II, and Tre Bunyon of CO; maternal grandmother, Martha Riniker of Maquoketa, IA; maternal great aunt Elvira (Fred) Donovan of DeWitt, IA. Maternal Uncle Danny (Jenny Wisco) Riniker of Maquoketa, IA, Paternal aunt Theresa (Larry) Aragon-Patrick, Ricki Morris, Becky Aragon all of Colorado, Paternal Uncles Vince (Kayleen) Aragon of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Clayton “June Bug” Bunyon of Colorado. Uncle Bob and Uncle Vern of Colorado. And many cousins and very special loved ones.

She was preceded in death by a sister Edna Ann Bunyon, a great grandmother Edna Doty, a grandma Connie Whitley, a grandpa Keith Wilson, a grandpa Clayton Bunyon, an uncle Kenny and several other family members.

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

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

Garth G. Meyer

Garth G. Meyer, 70 of Dubuque passed away on Friday, May 16, 2025.  There will be a Celebration of Garth’s life held from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Garth was born December 8, 1954, the fourth son of Louis and Vanita (Fennawald) Meyer. After graduating from Wahlert High School in 1973, he studied auto mechanics, then changed careers and completed LPN school and was employed in health care and nursing for over thirty years.

He had a lifelong interest in fitness and sports.

Through those many endeavors he cultivated loyal friendships and shared interests that have lasted more than half a century, starting with elementary school and including those he met at Windsor Park and most recently at Ecumenical Towers.

Having dealt with juvenile diabetes since age 11, he knew the struggles of lifelong health challenges and met this recent development of lymphoma with courage and positivity: both at UIHC and until he succumbed at Genesis Specialty Hospital in Davenport.

Although he will be sadly missed, those who knew him will have unforgettable memories to bring a smile of remembrance.

Survivors include his brother, Lance (Lenore) Meyer, and nephews Ry and Evan.

Preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Rick and Scot Meyer, and a nephew Kurt.

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

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

Betty M. Dryer

Betty Madeline Dryer, 96, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 24, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Friends and family may visit from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Charlie Tharp officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

Betty was born on March 30, 1929, in Independence, Iowa, she was the daughter of Raymond and Pearl Postel. She was united in marriage to Louis J. Dryer on January 17, 1949. She worked at the Independence Mental Health Institute, the Dubuque Packing Co., Bethany Home, and as a bartender. Betty was a member of the Betty Boop Club, Dubuque Fellowship Club, and Attitude Adjustment.

The family is so proud of Betty for going to treatment and joining the AA attitude adjustment group 25 years ago. She received and was very proud of her 25-year chip. Betty was a people person and everyone who knew her loved her. She enjoyed playing euchre, bingo, attending family gatherings, and going on picnics for AA.

Betty is survived by her children Debra Levins, Cindy Dryer, and Rick (Shelly) Dryer, daughter-in-law Rosanne Dryer, 18 grandchildren, 42 great-grandchildren, and 12 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, son Roger Dryer, infant daughter Donna Jean, grandchildren Michael, Clarence, and Little Betty Levins, son-in-law Melvin Levins, daughter-in-law Debbie Dryer, and 12 siblings.

In lieu of flowers, a Betty Dryer memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to Kim, Betty’s roommate at Dubuque Specialty Care, who always gave mom amazing love and care. Thank you also to Care Initiatives Hospice.

Richard Huseman

Richard Huseman, 92, of Dubuque, passed away May 25, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:30-11:45a.m., Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 12:00p.m., with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Richard was born on September 8, 1932, to Carl and Gladys (Boyce) Husemann in Dubuque, IA.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School where he excelled as an athlete on both the football and basketball team.

He was united in marriage to Rose (Doyle) Huseman on June 28, 1952, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. The two shared 72 wonderful years together.

He was a co-owner of Huseman and Husemann Cement Business. He also owned and operated Bell’s Tap before starting his longtime career as a supervisor with John Deere. He enjoyed 40 years of retirement from John Deere.

In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, bowling, and fishing. He was a member of the Mississippi Moon Bar bowling team. He particularly enjoyed catfishing, but Rich always had to be the one to clean them! Richard also enjoyed cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rose; children, Jane (John) Kiefer of Dubuque, Kay (Al) Muller of Cassville, WI, Cindy Strub of Dubuque, Rich Jr. (Judy) Huseman of Davenport, IA, Mary (Mike) Oldham of Dubuque, and Cheri (fiancé Troy Moore) Cochran of Dubuque; 13 grandchildren; and 30 great-grandchildren. Also surviving are brothers, Raymond Husemann, and Vern (Donna) Husemann.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Donald Husemann, Adele Husemann; sons-in-law, Tim Strub, and Jacky Cochran.

A Richard Huseman Memorial Fund has been established.

Richard’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to the wonderful and caring staff at Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

Shirley M. Selle-Webster

Shirley M. Selle-Webster, 89, of Galena, Illinois, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on May 23, 2025, at the Galena Senior Care Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral home service will be held at 10:30 a.m. with burial to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Shirley was born on December 1st, 1935, to Thomas and Esther (Rokusek) Wilkins. She married Horace Selle, Jr. in Dubuque, Iowa. He proceeded her in death. Shirley later married Howard Webster of Galena, Illinois.

Shirley retired from AY McDonald. She was on the board of AY Credit Union and on the AY women’s bowling team. Shirley enjoyed bowling, karaoke, auctions and the casino. She was an at home crafter and built doll houses in her younger years. She cherished her weekly chats with her granddaughter Jamie—they were the highlight of her week. Her face lit up with joy whenever she saw pictures of her great-granddaughters.

She is survived by her children, Michael (Katie) Selle, Thomas (Peggy) Selle, Wayne (Tina) Webster, and Gary (Angie Heidenreich) Webster; 18 grandchildren and 36 great-grandchildren.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Esther; her husbands, Horace Selle, Jr. and Howard Webster; her siblings, Robert Wilkins and Joan Hintgen; daughters, June Selle-Schissel and Marsha Webster-Broshous.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Midwest Senior Care Facility in Galena, Il., with a special thank you to Laura, Angie and Janet. We would also like to thank Jessica of Hospice of Dubuque for her care. A special thank you to Mike and Amy O’Neill for their care and companionship.

Doris M. O’Neill

Doris M. O’Neill, 100, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 25, 2025, at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 30th, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., with a wake service at 6:30 p.m. Additional visitation will be held Saturday after 9:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Doris was born on June 29th, 1924, in Glen Haven, WI., the daughter of Bernard and Cecelia (Walz) Ertel. She attended Bayless Business School in Dubuque, where she met the love of her life, Leo O’Neill. Leo and Doris were married on June 1st, 1946, in Glen Haven. Doris was mostly a homemaker but had also worked at Xavier Hospital and Stonehill Care Center.

Doris belonged to St. Patrick’s Rosary Society, Catholic Daughters, a Girl Scout Leader at St. Patrick’s, Operation Friendship, tutored students at Comiskey Park, and was a part of the Broadway Neighborhood Association. She enjoyed feeding birds, gardening, camping, vacations, and road trips. Her caramel apples were legendary that she passed out on Trick or Treat to the neighborhood kids. Mom and dad helped start the Wednesday night meal at St. Pat’s.

She enjoyed being a grandmother and attending all the kids activities. For the past 30 years she has had a very special relationship with the Irish singer Daniel O’Donnell. Their friendship grew after meeting in Branson. Daniel sang her favorite song to her just last November after he told the audience she was 100 years old and still traveled to Branson with her kids to see him.

Doris is survived by her children Rick O’Neill of Dubuque, Iowa, Mary Kershner of Denver, Colorado, Peggy Howard of Dubuque, Iowa, Terry “Darby” (Nancy) O’Neill of Aurora, Colorado, Jane (Dave) Vilbrandt of Janeville, Wisconsin, Kevin (Kathy) O’Neill of Kirkland, Washington, and a son-in-law John Meyer of Dubuque, Iowa.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Heather (Bobby) Jungblut, Katie (Eric) Mottet, Wendy (Wes Peterson) McKernan, Lisa (Nick) Donarski, Scott (Tessa) Howard, Patrick Meyer, Jennifer Meyer, Sara Meyer, Scott (Ashley) Vilbrandt, Mark (Angela) Vilbrandt, Kevin (Carla) Vilbrandt, Brady (Brittney) O’Neill, Brian (Sammy) O’Neill, Megan Empson, Molly (Ben) Parker, Katie (Cory) Heinzerling, Jamie (Connor) Smith, Rachel (Matt) Nilsson, Corey (Celia) O’Neill; 34 great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; her sister Phyllis Ertz; sister-in-law Ruth Ertel.

Doris was preceded in death by her husband Leo, daughter Eileen Meyer, sons-in-law Steve Howard and Bryan Kershner, grandson-in-law Rob McKernan, sister Verna Fralick, brother Patrick Ertel, sisters-in-law Elaine O’Neill and Carilee Salwolke and brothers-in-law Floyd Fralick, Albert Ertz, Bill O’Neill, Bob O’Neill and Jim O’Neill.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be donating money to her favorite charities.

The family would like to thank their sister Mary for using her nursing skills to help care for mom. They especially want to thank their brother Rick for being so devoted to mom and treating her with so much love and tenderness his whole life. He and mom were “Special Roommates”! They also would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Cao for their care.

Sue McGinnis

Sue “Susie” (Davis) McGinnis, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 25, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care following a long-fought battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

There will be a graveside service at Mount Calvary in Dubuque on Saturday, May 31 at 10:00 AM and a celebration of life at the Eagle’s Club on Century Drive in Dubuque on Saturday, May 31 from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Tri-State Cremation Center is charge of the arrangements.

Sue was born November 26, 1949, in Dubuque, the daughter of Lucille and John Davis. She graduated from the Visitation Academy. On June 5, 1971, she married Michael McGinnis at the Church of the Nativity, and they spent 54 years together. After a childhood diagnosis of polio, Sue fought hard to be independent and successful in her life and managed her challenges with grace and persistence.

In her career, Sue was employed at Flexsteel Industries and Herbst Upholstery, but her greatest professional accolade was owning and operating Sue’s Sewing and Upholstery. Sue was a brilliant upholsterer whose work can be found in countless homes and businesses. Sue was a fan of the Hawkeyes and supported the dirt-track racing dreams of her husband. She fiercely loved her family and her pets and spent countless hours with her grandchildren. Sue had a big heart and supported people and organizations in any way that she could. She loved ice cream, caramel frappes, and crocheting—especially baby blankets.

Sue is survived by her husband, Michael, of Dubuque; her daughter Amanda (Scott) Schemmel of Dubuque, their children Kalyn (Dalton Dietz) and Dylan (Reese Cromwell) and granddaughter Macie; her daughter Angela Weig (Jason Kressin) of Rock, MI and her children Carolyn (Gunnar Harwick) and Davin; her daughter Amy (Jeffrey) Haverland of Peosta, Iowa and their children Jack (Catie Brosious) and Anna (Connor Maiers); her daughter Michelle (Cale Enabnit) McGinnis of Manchester, Iowa and her children Keylee and Ava; her sister Janet Tracy of Virginia; her brother Jay (Sue) Davis of Dubuque; her brother Michael (Laurel) Davis of Las Vegas; her dog Kozy; and many nieces and nephews and extended family members.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents and twin sons, John and Leo and sister Pat Kelly.

The family would like to thank Dr. Loetscher, Care Initiatives Hospice and Dubuque Specialty Care for their care and compassion throughout the past few years.

In celebration of mom’s love for the Hawkeyes, please wear your black and gold on Saturday.

Gregory L. Schmitz

Gregory LaVern Schmitz, 66, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota on May 25, 2025.

Greg was born on November 16, 1958, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, to LaVern and Lillian (Sudmeier) Schmitz. He received his early education at Sacred Heart Catholic School in Maquoketa, Iowa.

On March 24, 1979, Greg married Roxanne Williamson at the Catholic Church in Lost Nation. Together they raised three children: Marsha, Mitch, and Kristin.

Greg’s strong work ethic was evident from a young age. He began working for Sacred Heart Catholic Church, mowing the cemetery grounds, and also working at the Derby. Over the years, he took on many roles, most notably his 20-year tenure as Ron Yeager’s trusted farmhand, driving semi for Farmer’s Supply Center in Delmar, and later, owning and operating Schmitz Trucking. Greg was a true jack-of-all-trades—there wasn’t much he couldn’t fix. Those who knew him will remember his unwavering work ethic, his quick wit, and his knack for pulling off a good prank. He was, in the best way, “always full of it!”

Greg is survived by his girlfriend, Rae Simonin of Baldwin; his children: Stacey (Jacob) Reuter of Maquoketa, Marsha (Cory) Simonson of Maquoketa, Mitch (Anna) Schmitz of Lost Nation, and Kristin (Ara) Bowman of Maquoketa; and his grandchildren: Breanna, Braden, Lexy, Jace, Allie, Dalton, Charli, and Hugh. He is also survived by his siblings: Douglas (Marion) Schmitz, Marlene (Thomas) Bendixen, Dianne Fuller, William (Denise) Schmitz, and Denise (Jeff) Swanson; brother-in-law, Donald Buck; sister-in-law, Theresa Franck; many nieces and nephews; and an honorary son, Josh Kaczinski.

He was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Lillian Schmitz; his siblings, Sharon Buck and Ervin Schmitz; his niece, Wendy Buck; and his beloved dog, Bella.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the many healthcare professionals who cared for Greg over the years, especially Dr. John Whalen and his dedicated team at Tri-State Dialysis in Dubuque, Iowa.

A special thank you goes to Greg’s kidney donor, Scott Perkins. Scott’s extraordinary gift gave Greg an additional 11 years—a gift of time that allowed him to create countless more memories with loved ones and welcome a few more grandchildren into the world.

In his final act of generosity, Greg gave the gift of life through organ donation. His selfless decision continues to make a profound impact on the lives of others, a legacy that reflects the giving spirit he carried throughout his life.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 P.M., Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. until service time.  Cremation will follow the services.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gregory L. “Greg” Schmitz memorial fund has been established.

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