Obituaries Archive

Mark S. Willis

Mark S. Willis, 68, of Farley, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Mark will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2023 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa, where a Prayer Service will be held at 2:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home in Peosta.

Services for Mark will be held at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

Mark was born October 5, 1955 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert and Shirley (Smith) Willis.  He attended Washington Jr. High in Dubuque and was a 1974 graduate of Senior High School in Dubuque, Iowa.  He was a car enthusiast which lead him to owning and operating Willis Auto Body since 1985.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley.  He was also a member of several car clubs in the area, National Impala Car Club, Late Great Chevy Car Club, Tri-State Antique and Classic Car Club, Main Street Cruisers, and a member of the Tri-State Auto Body Association.

He enjoyed camping, going to classic car events with his 1958 Chevy convertible.  Most of all he loved family gatherings and spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Willis of Farley, IA; three children, Dawn (Chris) Reiff, Jeff (Brittney) Willis, and Brian (Janel) Willis, and all of Farley, Iowa; nine grandchildren,  Anthony, Colton, Ayden, Jaxen and Rebecca Reiff, Rylie and Liam Willis and Ellie and Chase Willis; his step-mother, Ruth Willis of Dubuque, IA; four brothers, Dave (Ellen) Willis of Dubuque, IA, Joe (Pat) Willis of Apple Canyon, IL, Jerry (Linda) Willis, and Dale Willis both of Dubuque, IA; and two sisters, Bev Willis of Delhi, IA and Bobbie (Dan) Schoen of Dubuque, IA; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Kathy (Jim) Mackedanz of Dubuque, Karen (David) Robertson of Urbandale, Kevin (Janice) Welter and Kent (Cindy)Welter both of Farley, Kurt Welter of Dubuque, Kelly (Tanya) Welter of Graf, Kris (Dave) Koutsky of Milan, IL;

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bob Willis and Shirley Friesinger; his step father, Louie Friesinger; one brother, Jim Willis; twin grandsons, Carson and Carter Willis; his father and mother-in-law, Donald and Shirley Welter; one brother-in-law, Kenneth Welter; one sister-in-law, Cindy Willis.

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

Will J. Burds

Will J. Burds, age 74 of Gahanna, Ohio, passed away on October 25, 2023.

He was born November 12, 1948 in Cascade, Iowa.  A son to the late John and Mary (Carroll) Burds. In addition to his parents, Will is preceded in passing by his brothers Jerry (Pat) Burds and Jack Burds.

Will obtained his bachelor’s degree in business from Loras College, Dubuque Iowa and retired after 30 years with Progressive Insurance.

Will enjoyed his family and friends and is survived by his loving wife Kathy of 51 years, his son Chad (Emily), his grandchildren Carter and Payton and sisters Joan Weber (Phil) and Colleen Bertinetti.

Friends may gather at Schoedinger Northeast Funeral Home (1051 E. Johnstown Rd.) On Monday, October 30, 2023 from 4PM to 7PM.  Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences.

Entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTHEAST, 1051 E. JOHNSTOWN RD. 43230.

We will then take Will home for his funeral mass burial with Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home in Dubuque, Iowa. Visitation will be from 9:00-10:15a.m., Thursday, November 2, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:30a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lettuce Work Foundation, Inc. at www.lettucework.org or by mail at Lettuce Work 14985 Francher Rd., New Albany, Ohio 43054.

Alice K. Laaker

Alice Kay Laaker, age 84, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on October 31, 2023, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Alice’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 18, 2023, beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the Dockside Bar and Grille, 22500 Golf Lake Road in Mud Lake.  Alice’s family requests that family and friends wear their pink attire proudly in honor of Alice.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Alice’s family.

Alice was born on February 21, 1939, in Holy Cross, IA, a daughter to Clarence and Edwina (Hefel) Schmitt.  She grew up with a strong work ethic which she carried proudly throughout her entire life.  Alice invested over 40 years of her time and talents at Georgia Pacific until her eventual retirement in 2009 and was literally heartbroken when she discovered that she would not be returning for another honest day’s work moving forward.  Alice was more than just a faithful and loyal employee though, her devotion to her family and friends was always a top priority in her life.  Spending time with “her grandkids” was what drove Alice most days, but she always enjoyed a little time working in the yard, or walking her dog as time allowed.  She also treasured any opportunity to grab her fishing pole and spend some time in the warm afternoon sun, or gathering around the card table for a friendly game of Euchre.  Watching General Hospital was also a subtle vice which she secretly submitted to, but all of these pastimes were only made perfect when she had a cold Pepsi in her hands as well.  Alice lived a full and abundant life and thankfully leaves behind many beautiful memories for those who knew and loved her to carry on in their hearts and minds.  Her legacy will be clearly evident in the generations to follow and we are grateful for every moment the Lord kept Alice here among us to spread her love and light and continually remind us that “God is good, all the time”.  Thank you, Alice, for teaching us that the challenges in life are primarily opportunities for us to grow and become stronger and only through the difficult days can we truly learn to appreciate the good ones also.  May peace be yours now as you leave your earthly battles behind and may the Lord keep and hold you as we seek peace and comfort in your absence.  We will surely try our best to remember your no tears motto also as we attempt to navigate the difficult days ahead without you by our side.  We will love and miss you dearly until we meet again!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Alice include,

her children,
Jerry (Robin) Runde, Dubuque, IA,
Jodi (Mike) Billmeyer, Dubuque, IA,
and Jason (Molly) Laaker, Dubuque, IA;

her adored grandchildren,
Nicole (TJ) Worrell, Samantha (Rob) Korman, Gerald “Bear” Runde III, Victoria (Luke O’Malley) Runde, Jada Perkins, Vanessa Perkins, Alison Laaker, Emily Laaker, and Jacob Laaker;

her great-grandchildren,
Giavanna Worrell, Archer Worrell, Charleston Korman, Bode Korman, Josie Korman, Barrett O’Malley, and Blare O’Malley;

her godchild,
Corinne Bries, Holy Cross, IA;

her siblings,
Jean (Jim) Steil, Asbury, IA,
Elaine (Ray) Backes, Dubuque, IA,
Gary (Mary Lou) Schmitt, Holy Cross, IA,
Mary Jean (Steve) Redding, Dubuque, IA,
Danny (Nancy) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA,
and Dennis (Carol) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Edwina Schmitt.

Alice’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Alice and her family.

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

Valarie H. Adams

Valerie H. “Val” Adams, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on October 31, 2023, at Dubuque Specialty Care while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Val’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Val’s family.

Val was born on March 5, 1948, in Guttenberg, IA, a daughter to Clarence “C.J.” and Cathy (Fisne) Adams.  She was a woman who thoroughly enjoyed the simple things in life.  Val’s skills in the kitchen were legendary and her cakes not only brought her joy, but also those around her.  She also enjoyed listening to Elvis and Anne Murray in the background whenever she was creating wonderful embroidery projects, or getting her nails done.  Watching a classic western on the tv, and a little bird watching was always considered the perfect way to pass some time as well.  But, truth be told, spending time with her grandchildren was where Val’s greatest joy was to be found.  Her love for the little one’s in her family was unwavering and unending and continually on display.  We will miss Val more than she could ever know, but trust that she is now free from her earthly battles and now resided in eternal perfection.  Thank you, Val, for reminding us that life only has to be as complicated as we choose to make it and sometimes the best moments in life are nothing more than the simple moments we have our loved one’s by our side.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Val include,

her three children,
Katrina “Kate” (Timothy) Harle, Asbury, IA,
Michael Knockel, Jr., Dubuque, IA,
and Kassandra Mueller, Clinton, IA;

her grandchildren,
Jacob (Courtney) Harle, Lindsey (Quinn) McCullough, McKenzie Harle, Samantha Mueller, Andrew Mueller-Drury, Lainie Mueller-Drury, Andrea Knockel, and Ashley Knockel-McClintek;

her great-grandchildren,
Bentley Barth, Lillie Barth, Callie Harle, Avery Harle, Sylvee Harle, Nova McClintek, and Heaven McClintek;

her sisters,
Patti (Mike Brown) Boardman, Box Elder, S.D.,
and Trudi (Bob) Stauffacher, Monroe, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Val was preceded in death by her mother, Cathy Falcone; and her step-mother, Elaine Adams.

Val’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care for all of the love and support you have provided over these last years.  Your commitment truly helped to bring peace into the lives of all who knew and loved Val and for that we are forever grateful.

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

Keith E. Welch

Keith E. Welch, 85, of DeWitt, Iowa (formerly of Delmar) a beloved husband of 60 years, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 30, 2023, in DeWitt, Iowa. Born on November 28, 1937, in Center Junction, Iowa. He was the son of Herman Suel and Beulah Mae (McNamee) Welch.

Keith was a proud graduate of Monticello High School and served his country honorably in the U.S. Army from 1960 to 1962. Upon his return, he married Carol Leinbaugh on January 5, 1963 in Lost Nation, Iowa. Three children were born to this union, Nancy, Steve, and Karen.

Keith worked briefly at Clinton Engines and J.I. Case in Davenport before finding his true calling in farming. He farmed in the Lost Nation area for many years, retiring in 2004. Even in retirement, Keith continued to serve his community, working as a greeter at Walmart in Maquoketa.

Keith was a devoted member of the Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation, where he had formerly served as a trustee. He was also a member of the Menzo Widle American Legion Post #381 of Lost Nation as well as a former member of the Delmar Lions Club. Keith’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He enjoyed farming, deer hunting, fishing, and going to stock car races. Above all, he cherished spending time with his grandchildren, who brought him immense joy.

Keith leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. He is survived by his wife, Carol Welch of DeWitt, IA; children, Nancy Orloski of Delmar, IA, and Steve (Carmen) Welch of Cedar Rapids, IA; seven grandchildren, Kyle (and fiancée Aubreigh) Orloski, Emily Orloski, Elizabeth (Jonathan) Beck, Maria Welch, Ted (Kayla) Welch, Greg Welch, and Rob Welch; two great-grandchildren, Cayden Conrad and Alexander Beck; and sisters, Wanda Cass of Maquoketa, IA, Beverly Kemp of Maquoketa, IA, and Mary Binns of Maquoketa, IA. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who will remember him fondly. He was preceded in death by his parents, and his daughter, Karen.

A celebration of Keith’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, November 3, 2023, at Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation.  Visitation will be held from 3 to 6 P.M., Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Lost Nation, Iowa Cemetery with military honors. A luncheon will be served at the Lost Nation Legion Hall immediately following the burial.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Keith E. Welch memorial fund has been established.

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

Mark W. Reardon

Mark William Reardon, 68, of Guttenberg, Iowa passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 with his loving wife, Deb by his side.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 a.m., Saturday, November 4, 2023 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Guttenberg, Iowa. Funeral services will commence at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church with burial to follow at Guttenberg City Cemetery in Guttenberg, Iowa. Pastor Mike Ashman will officiate.

Mark was born on November 9, 1954 to William and Nadyne (Reque) Reardon in Decorah, Iowa. Mark graduated from MFL High School in 1974 and went to work for Reardon Oil Co. until 2000 then worked for Kuhlman Construction until his retirement in 2018.

Mark spent his happiest years with the love of his life, Deb Bolsinger and after years of consideration, was united in marriage on May 22, 2021.

Mark had many interests in his life and almost all had to do with the outdoors: hunting, fishing, boating, snowmobiling, cutting firewood, and Caribbean Cruises. He loved spending time with family and friends the most.

Survivors include his wife, Deb; children: Nick (Theresa) Reardon, Valerie (Randy) Jaeger, Scott Smith, Heather Bolsinger, Clay (Dar) Bolsinger; brother, Mike (Dawn) Reardon; sister, Paula (Mike) Ahlers; in-laws: Billy and Diane Welsh, Peggy (Mike) Wolfe, Roger Smith, Randy and Rachel Smith. Mark will also be loved and missed by 17 grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and father-in-law, Billie Smith.

A big thank you to all the neighbors and friends who stopped by for a friendly chat or prayer. Also, thank you to the wonderful and caring staff at St. Croix Hospice, especially, Carrie Burke.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and information is available at www.morrisfuneralhomes.com.  Memorials may be sent to Morris Funeral Home (in care of the deceased) 207 South 1st St, Guttenberg, IA 52052.

Sharel S. Kilburg

Sharel Susan Kilburg, 76, of Bellevue, passed away on October 30th at home surrounded by her loving family after a 2 year battle with pancreatic cancer. Sharel will graciously donate her body to the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics for research following services.

Funeral mass will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, November4th at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 3rd from 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service inBellevue, with additional visitation on Saturday, November 4thfrom 9:00 am – 10:00 am at the funeral home, prior to Mass. Burial will be at a later date in the Andrew Cemetery.

Sharel was born December 19, 1946, in Clinton, the daughter of Arthur and Loretta (Franzen) Schmidt. She grew up on the family farm north of Spragueville, Iowa with her five brothers and one sister.  Sharel married John A. Kilburg on November 6th, 1965, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Preston, Iowa.  Together they operated a dairy farm west of Springbrook their entire lives and raised six children.

Sharel was sweet, patient, caring, compassionate and was a gentle soul. She saw the good in everyone. She was an outstanding cook.  Her whole family enjoyed and looked forward to her delicious holiday meals that she made look so simple. She was an extremely hard worker and could do anything on the farm from baling small square bales to milking cows to operating machinery.  She enjoyed being outdoors doing anything from field work on her John Deere 3020 tractor, caring for all the farm animals-with kittens being her favorite, tending to her garden and flowers, and more recently playing with her grandkids.  She loved her grandkids more than anything and loved when they called her “Granny”.  She rarely had an empty lap with her grandkids around.

Her true passion was her faith and her bible which continued until she was called home by her Lord and Savior. Even when it would have been convenient for her to be upset about her terminal illness, she never complained or waivered in her trust and faith in God.  She also continued to maintain her quiet sense of humor to the very end.  She will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Paula (Dale) Michel of Springbrook, Iowa, Sandy Kilburg of Moline, Illinois, Brent (Lynn) Kilburg of Maquoketa, Iowa, Shelly (Cliff) Brehm of Cuba City, Wisconsin, Kristi (Joel) Wagner of Bellevue, Iowa, and Craig (Amy) Kilburg of Dubuque, Iowa; ten grandchildren, Chris Brown, John, Anne, and Paul Kilburg, Justin and Jacob Henning, Taylor and Alyssa Wagner, and Brayden and Kylie Kilburg.

She is also survived by her sister, Karen (Bill) Kilburg, brothers, Ardo (Jan) Schmidt, Lyle (Pat) Schmidt, Eldon (Valerie) Schmidt, and Leon (Deb) Schmidt; in-laws, Red (Addie) Kutsch, Elsie Moellers, Julius Reuter, Wayne (Lois) Kilburg, and Janice Portz.

Sharel was preceded in death by her parents; father and mother in-law, John H. and Mary Kilburg; a brother, Allan Schmidt; in-laws, Norman (Darlene) Kilburg, Felix Moellers, Mary Reuter, Bud (Emma) Schmidt, and Bill Portz.

The family would like to thank Mercy One Oncology Department, The Mayo Clinic, Mercy One ICU, and Hospice of Jackson County for their wonderful care!

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

Myrtle I. Buda

Angels carried Myrtle (Carol) Irene Buda to heaven on October 29, 2023, a crisp autumn morning. Her loving family gives thanks for her almost 98 years on this earth.

A celebration of life for Carol will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at Hoffman Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Vigil at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Myrtle (Carol) Irene Buda, daughter of John and Johanna Schultz, was born on December 11, 1925, in Schapville, Illinois. Carol was raised on a farm in Schapville with her ten siblings. When she was 17 years old, her adventurous spirit called her to Los Angeles, California. There she met and married Rocco Salvatore Buda, Jr. They settled in Dubuque, Iowa, with their four children in 1951. During her lifetime, Carol was employed in a variety of service occupations, her longest with Karigan’s/Sfikas Restaurant. She possessed a pristine work ethic with a “no-complaining” attitude, which she passed on to her children.

Our mother found joy in playing the piano and in writing verse, including poems to her children and grandchildren. After she retired she loved to spend her days cooking and baking. She was a pie maker extraordinaire and for fifteen years was the appointed pie maker for the Flexsteel High Point Market in North Carolina. A woman of modest means, but rich in spirit, she nourished her family and others with food, gratitude, humor, a heart-warming smile, and words of wisdom. She was always there for us, a source of comfort like a warm chocolate chip cookie. Two of her favorite endearments were “Be kind to others” and “I love you more.”

Those left to cherish her memory include three daughters, Rosalia (Charles) Claussen of Ft. Dodge, Francine (Jim) Banwarth of Dubuque, and Venice (Jim) Richardson of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Abe (Brandee) Banwarth of Marion, Noah Banwarth (Katie Roemerman) of Marion, and Sophie (Nick) Rossman of Dubuque; and two great grandchildren, Ruby and Rocco Rossman. She is survived by one sibling, Juliette Schmidt of Schapville, Illinois, and an extended family of loved ones.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and nine siblings, Rocco Buda, her son Dennis Buda, and her great granddaughter, Irene Leigh Rossman.

The family is deeply grateful to Dr. Ryan Stille, the nurses and staff at Harmony Dubuque, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a local food pantry of your choice or Hospice of 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 Myrtle’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

James Edwards

D. James “Jim” Edwards, 88, of Peosta, died at the University of Iowa Hospital on Monday, October 30, 2023.

Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church. Interment will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens, where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  The funeral service will be livestreamed at egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Jim was born on May 1, 1935, to Albert and Margaret (O’Neal) Edwards in Erie, Pennsylvania.

Jim learned early in life from his stepfather to have a sense of urgency. It was his concrete basis as a Marine and business owner. He proudly served our country in the United States Marine Corps from June 6, 1954, to June 6, 1956. He was the founder and CEO of Edwards Cast Stone for fifty-two years until he hung up his steel-toed boots and hard hat in 2005. Jim’s retirement was spent playing the sport he loved, golf. He was a charter member and past Thunder Hills Golf Club president in Peosta, IA.

Jim was all about the community as much as his family. He served on the Dubuque County Fairgrounds board for twenty years, has been a life member of the Sertoma Club since 1965, and is a fifty-plus-year member of Masonic Lodge 125, Clinton Consistory, and Kaaba Shrine. Jim was an active member of Westminster Presbyterian Church for over sixty years, serving as the session’s elder and president. He was always looking for solutions and answered the call when needed.

He gave so much: his larger-than-life personality, smile, love for family and friends, his “man on a mission” attitude, and always striving to be better and do better. We are all better to have been fortunate enough to have him in our lives. He will never be forgotten.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Pat, of 66 years; children, Bob (Dori) Edwards of Dubuque, IA, Jeff (Connie) Edwards of Dubuque, IA, Tim (Kelly) Edwards of Oak Point, TX, Steve (Cathy) Edwards of Milan, IL, and Doug (Amy) Edwards of Peosta, IA. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jason (Casey), Nicholas (Amanda), Tim, Alex (Hillary), Matthew (Ehricka), Shawn (Bri), Mitchell (Michealla), Michael (Kelli), Molly (Colton) Jones, Ryan (Hailey), Peter “PJ,” Mary; great-grandchildren, Regan, Rory, Kellen, Asher, Lewis, Hayden, Riley, Bodie, Mason, Malia, Mark, Billy, Sylvie, and Reece. Also surviving are brothers Abe (Ginny) Edwards, Bill (Lonnie) Edwards, and Jack (Karla) Edwards; sister Beverly (Gerald) Koch; and brother-in-law Karl Reinelt.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four sisters, Shirley Sack, Lynda Higdon, Cathy Reinelt, Carole Dellecese, and brother-in-law’s, Lavern Sack and Joe Dellecese.

A Jim Edwards Memorial Fund has been established.

Sharon L. Nickolas

Sharon L. Nickolas, 80, of Dubuque, IA passed away Saturday October 28, 2023, at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

At Sharon’s request there will be no funeral or memorial service. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Sharon was born on September 8, 1943, in Dubuque to Harry and Gladys (Story) Buxton. She married Ronald Nickolas on August 11, 1962, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dubuque. Ronald preceded her in death on November 19, 2022.

Sharon worked as a Nurse’s Aide for 20 plus years until retirement at St. Domonic Villa. She lived for her kids and grandkids. She also enjoyed playing slots at the casino and reading anything she could get her hands on.

Sharon is survived by her children: Ronald “Chuck” (Janelle) Nickolas, of Durango, IA, Kevin (Wendy) Nickolas of Tracy, CA, Lisa (Steve) Hunn of Livermore, CA, Mark “Couse” (Rhonda) Nickolas, of Dubuque, IA.; her grandkids: Tim (Megan), Nathan, Leah, Alexa, Mitchell, Collin, Alex (Ashley), Shaylee and Malethia; her great-grand kids, Harper, Eli, Alyza, Noalyn, Athylian; sister-in-law Sherry Buxton; brothers Gary (Suzy) Buxton, and Mark Buxton; sister-in-law Karen Nickolas along with many nieces and nephews.

Along with her husband Ronald, she was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter Brandy Barnhart; sister Sydney (Bill) Weichel; brother Ronald Buxton; siblings-in-law Arnold Nickolas Jr., Lois (Paul) Dillon, Barb (Clarence) Duffy.

Memorial donations may be made in her name to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to express a special thank you to Bethany home staff as well as Hospice of Dubuque.

Robert W. Emrich

Robert W. “Bob” Emrich, Jr., age 84, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Boscobel, WI, completed his earthly journey on October 21, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.

Bob was born on May 16, 1939, in Elmhurst, IL to Robert and Leona (Zeffield) Emrich. While attending Loyola University in Chicago, Bob was fortunate enough to meet his soulmate, Petrina Ventura. The couple was united in marriage in 1963 and shared over sixty-one wonderful years together. They were blessed with three children to love and adore. Bob devoted his career to the Bagcraft Corporation of America as their Technical Director. He eventually moved into retirement, where he and Petrina chose to fulfill the dream of settling on a small farm nearBoscobel, WI.

Bob was a faithful member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Boscobel and a loyal member of the Knights of Columbus. He served as Grand Knight and recently earned his honorary life membership, proud accomplishments for Bob. His devotion to faith, family, and community was continuous. All who knew and loved him were consistently aware that his generosity had no end, and his kind and loving spirit was always ready to serve.

In his free time, Bob enjoyed tending his farm and expansive garden, going fishing, and he was always up for a good Cub’s game, especially with his son, Bob. He was a naturally giftedmusician who played guitar from his youth, and he was always developing that skill by learning new ways to play the blues music he loved. We will dearly miss the love and light that Bob brought into the world, yet we trust in the Lord’s plan.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob include loving wife, Petrina, adored children, Chris, Mary and Bob, two grandchildren, Bob Marten and Angelo, sister Joan Golembiewski, dear family friend, Phil Koehl, and many other friends and neighbors.

Those who preceded Bob in passing include parents, Robert and Leona, siblings, Sandra, Charles and Dickie (in infancy), and brother-in-law, Gerry Golembiewski.

The family extends their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital and our neighbors, especially John and Judy Curtis, for their help and support. We appreciate your generosity, patience, and commitment.

1 Thess 4:14

For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with Him those who have fallen asleep.

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

Michael Allendorf

Michael “Mick” Allendorf, 72, of Dubuque, died Saturday, October 28, 2023, at his home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 6:45 pm Friday, November 3, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Michael will be 7:00 pm Friday, November 3, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.

Mick was born May 2, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the son of William and Darlene Allendorf. He and Marilyn Renee Nesteby eloped to Michigan on June 25, 1970.

Mick graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1969 and attended Loras College.

Mick worked for John Deere Dubuque Works. During his time at John Deere he worked as a welder at the beginning of his career and later as a forklift driver, retiring after 33 years. He also served as a union steward for the UAW. Mick was an avid golfer, enjoyed playing pool and softball, running, and watching NASCAR. He was probably Dale Earnhardt’s biggest fan. He really loved life. One of his favorite sayings, in the words of Winston Churchill, “When you’re going through hell, keep going.”

Survivors include his wife of 53 years, Marilyn Allendorf of Dubuque; two children, Carrie (Josh) Gates of Platteville, WI; and Jeff Allendorf of Platteville, WI; his “lil girl”, Brooklyn; three sisters, Kim (Guy) Harrell of Mulberry, FL; Kristin Brosnan of Dubuque; and Linda Flannery of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Mark and Scott Allendorf.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of the nurses and staff with Hospice of Dubuque. Also, their neighbors and friends, Jim and Jo, Barb and Carl, Mary, Kevin, and Dave for their loving support and care.

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

John A. Schoen

John Andrew Schoen, 92, of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA surrounded by his family.

Family and friends may call from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 3, 2023, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be at 3:30 p.m. Friday.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 4th, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League and the Iowa National Guard.

John was born on August 31, 1931, in Detroit, MI, the son of John and Gladys (Crahan) Schoen.  He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1953 where he met the love of his life, Joan Prindiville.  Together they had 6 children. Joan preceded John in death on October 15, 2016, after 61 years of marriage.  John moved his family to Dubuque in 1967. With an entrepreneurial spirit, John created a number of businesses throughout his lifetime. The Metrix Company was his greatest professional accomplishment and the one he felt most pride in. The success of Metrix led John to create The Schoen Family Charitable Trust, which continues to support communities across the Midwest. John was an avid golfer who loved to travel and was fortunate to have played many of the best courses in the world. He counts 5 holes-in-one in his lifetime. For many years, he built and flew model planes as a member of the Tri-State Modelers.  He also loved to play bridge.

Those left to cherish his memory are his six children, John “Andy” (Deb) Schoen of Dallas, TX, Michael (Vicky) Schoen of DePere, WI, Susan (Russ) Coblentz of Naperville, IL, Peter (Karla) Schoen of Dubuque, IA, Laura (Jeff) Mootz of Neenah, WI, Daniel (Bobbie) Schoen of Dubuque, IA; his two sisters, Marilyn Leahy of Glen Ellyn, IL and Peggy Igyarto of Darien, Illinois; and 14 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the nurses, staff and administrators of Stonehill Care Center for their loving care of our father. We would also like to thank the many hardworking people at Metrix in both Iowa and the Dominican Republic for your service and dedication throughout the years, you made our father’s legacy.

Memorials may be given to Stonehill Care Center or Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Josephine M. Roling

Josephine “Jo” Mary Roling, 99, of Dubuque, died Friday, October 27, 2023, at her home.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, November 2, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jo will be 10:00 am Friday, November 3, 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.

Josephine was born August 26, 1924, in Dubuque, the daughter of John and Stella (Szmeter) Block. On May 25, 1946, she married Gilbert F. Roling at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. He died April 5, 1993.
Josephine worked for her husband’s concrete construction business as an accountant and secretary. She also worked for Holy Trinity Catholic Church in various positions.

She was a long-time member of the Holy Trinity Catholic Church where she served on the Rosary Society, helped serve funeral diners, and volunteered to assist with masses at Sunnycrest Manor. She enjoyed tending to her garden and was an avid crocheter. Above all, Josephine treasured spending time with her family.

Survivors include her six children, Ervin Roling of Dubuque; Mark Roling of Mechanicsville, IA; Michael (Kathie) Roling of Dubuque; David (Constancia) of Dubuque; Janel Roling of Iowa City, IA; and Mary (Scott Ronning) Roling of Duluth, MN; 8 grandchildren, Rosemary, JoAnn, Ambrose, Maria, Tammie, Terry, Colin, Rachael; 9 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Wayne Roling; two brothers, Frank and Charles Block; and four sisters Sabina Block, Frances Drozdowski, Jean Kleps, and Ann Bohnsack.

The family thanks Constancia and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

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

Lila Reiter

Lila Reiter, 92, of Dyersville, IA, passed away on Friday, October 27th, 2023.

Her funeral mass, officiated by Rev. Jim Miller while Rev. Phillip Gibbs concelebrates, will be held on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 11 a.m. at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, IA, with a visitation beginning at 9 a.m.prior to the mass at the church. Interment will be held at St. Martin’s Catholic Cemetery in Cascade, IA.

Lila was born on December 16th,1930, in Dyersville, IA, the daughter of Elmer and Adele (Becker) Rohenkohl. Lila graduated from Xavier High School in 1948.

On December 31st, 1951, Lila was united in marriage to Paul M. Reiter, son of Edward and Margaret (Kurt) Reiter, of Cascade, IA at the St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, IA, alongside her sister, Jo Ann, and brother-in-law, Donald Scherbring, in a double-wedding ceremony.

Paul and Lila lived together, with their five children, on their farm in Cascade, IA. Lila was an avid artist, baker, crafter, cook, seamstress, storyteller, giver, and proud member of the St. Francis Xavier Parish of Dyersville, IA. Lila was defined by her warmth, admirable character, and the endless love she extended to those she cherished and cared for. (She always ensured her “Honey’s” sweet tooths were satisfied.)

Those left to celebrate and honor Lila’s memory include her five children: Tom (Jayne) Reiter, Richard (Margie) Reiter, Jerald Reiter, Marie Knipper, and Michelle (Todd) Hoffman; her four grandchildren: Jeremy (Lacey) Reiter, Jolene (Josh) Trenkamp, Christopher Leibold, and Paul Knipper; her four great-grandchildren: Kambrie and Kessyn Reiter, and Elsie and Winston Trenkamp; her sister-in-law, Jean Reiter; and her extended friends and family.

Lila was preceded in death by her husband (and now reunited in Heaven after 50 years since his passing), parents; grandson, Brian Reiter; and sister.

The family would like to offer their gratitude to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque, Accura HealthCare of Cascade, and Nancy Werner for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a memorial mass.

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