Obituaries Archive

Cecilia H. Hirsch

Cecilia H. Hirsch, age 96, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 5:35 p.m., on Monday, March 20, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque with her loving family by her side.  To honor Cecilia’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Monday, March 27, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, at Church, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Cecilia was born on May 17, 1926, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Cecilia (Wolter) Schmidt.

Cecilia attended school in North Buena Vista.  She was united in marriage to Francis Hirsch on February 15, 1947, at Sacred Heart Church.  They were blessed with a large family and 46 years of marriage before Francis passed away on December 30, 1993.  She was a fiercely devoted wife and mom who always made sure her kids were safe and well behaved.  After the kids were older, she took a job as a nurses aide and dietician at Xavier Hospital and also cleaned private residences and babysat for several families in Dubuque.  Cecilia was a long time member of Sacred Heart Church and Rosary Society.  In her free time, you could often find Cecilia sitting at her special rocker by the kitchen table with her trusty space heater keeping her nice and toasty warm.  She also enjoyed playing cards with family and friends.  She loved being outside on her porch swing and she was famous for her green thumb.  Cecilia grew beautiful flower gardens, potted plants and a big vegetable garden every year.  She was a fantastic cook and her scalloped potatoes were always a hit.  Cecilia loved Christmas.  She always had the tallest tree around and would purchase new ornaments throughout the entire year getting ready to decorate.  She also enjoyed collecting specialty dolls which she passed down to her family.  Anyone who knew Cecilia knew that her family was always her top priority.  On Sundays, she and Francis piled all of the kids in the car and they would head out to Buenie to get together with her siblings.  Even after the children were grown she still worried about them and checked in with them regularly.  Cecilia was a wonderful woman and she will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends.

Those left to cherish Cecilia’s memory include,

her children,
Karen Hirsch, Dubuque, IA,
Sue (Michael) Schueller, East Dubuque, IL,
Judy Kines, Monahans, TX,
Jayne Hirsch, Dubuque, IA,
Rickie (Jane Fishler) Hirsch, East Dubuque, IL,
Terry Hirsch, Dubuque, IA
and Daniel (Janet) Hirsch, Dubuque, IA;

15 grandchildren;

30 great-grandchildren;

and a son-in-law,
Kevin Welty, Dubuque, IA.

Cecilia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Francis Hirsch; 2 daughters, Kathy Welty and Cecilia M. Hirsch in infancy; 2 great-grandchildren, Parker and Delaney Robbins; and her 11 siblings.

Cecilia’s family would like to thank Dr. Moore, Dr. Obink, Dr. Rodriguez, Dr. Noble, Dr. Sloan’s office and the staff of Paramount Ambulance for all of their care and kindness.

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

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

Joseph R. Veach

Joseph “Joe” R. Veach, 71, of Otter Creek, Iowa, passed away on March 20th, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center.

A public visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, March 24th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:45p.m. A private family funeral mass will be held at St. Lawrence Otter Creek with Fr. Austin Wilker officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Burial will be at St. Lawrence Otter Creek Cemetery.

Joe was born on April 4th, 1951, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Orville D. and Loretta E. (Schiffer) Veach. He attended High School in Maquoketa after high school he served his country in the US Army during the Vietnam War.

On October 1, 1977, he married the love of his life, Anne McGranahan at St. Lawrence Church in Otter Creek.

He worked for the former Dubuque Packing Company along with Caraway Realty and East Iowa Realty. Joe also farmed all his life, he loved farming and spending time with his two sons on the farm.

Joe enjoyed playing cards with his brothers and neighbors; his yearly fishing trips with the grandkids and snowmobile trips with his sons, brothers and nephews. Joe enjoyed life, always had a story to tell; he loved the Veach Campouts and telling stories about Uncle Mort while sitting around the campfire. Faith and family were everything to Joe, he loved spending time with his family especially the grandchildren, they always made him laugh.

Joe is survived by his wife Anne of 45 years; sons Joey (Courtney) Veach of Maquoketa, Iowa and Billy (Brittney) Veach of Spragueville, Iowa. His grandchildren Hailey, Tucker, Lincoln, Mack, Maverick, Connor and Oaklynn. His brothers: Chuck (Rose), Dick (Joyce), Doug (Linda), Dave (Julie) Pat (Cindy), and Kenny (Bonnie) and his sister-in-law Joanne Veach. He is also survived by Anne’s siblings: Bob (Dottie) McGranahan, Jerry (Peg) McGranahan, Deanna (Jim) Lux, Lisa (Keith) Clausen, Patty (Ben) Keating, and Mike (Marlene) McGranahan.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Sue Ellen; two brothers Jack and Ronnie.

The family wishes to thank MercyOne Medical Center, the Ambulatory Department and the VA. A special thank you to his niece Jesse Severson for her great care of Joe.

In lieu of flowers a Joseph Veach memorial fund will be established.

Valida Harrison

Valida “Val” Harrison, age 82, of East Dubuque, IL, completed her earthly journey suddenly on March 20, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.  To honor Val’s life, a private family service will be held.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Val’s family.

Val was born on April 21, 1940, in Lithuania, one of six children in her family.  She eventually made her way to the United States and thankfully met and married to the love of her life, George B. Harrison, on August 19, 1961.  They were blessed with 32 wonderful years together before George was sadly called home ahead of her on May 24, 1994.  Val enjoyed her years she spent as a school bus driver and the countless hours of memories she made with the children on her routes.  She also spent some time working in the laundry at the Days Inn where she made many friends along the way.  In her free-time, Val enjoyed trying her luck at the casino and thoroughly enjoyed an evening of Bingo whenever time allowed.  Her regular morning visits to the Sunshine Family Restaurant to have breakfast among friends was another highlight in Val’s life.  Watching Val leave us so quickly has been difficult for her family and friends, but we trust that her independent spirit wouldn’t have had it any other way and that she is now enjoying a joyful reunion with her husband, George, and the rest of her family who have been awaiting her arrival.  Thank you, Val, for the love and memories you shared throughout your journey and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Val include,

her sister-in-law,
Gloria Harrison, Dubuque, IA;

her step-son,
Walter Harrison, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Val was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George; along with three brothers and two sisters.

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

Carol J. Duster

Carol Jean Duster, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey suddenly on March 18, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital, with her loving family by her side.  As per Carol’s wishes; there will be no visitation.  Carol did not want her passing to be filled with sadness.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Carol’s family.

Carol was born on February 29, 1948, in Dodgeville, WI, a daughter to Randall W. and Virginia (Nelson) Bowers.  She graduated form Dubuque Senior High School in 1966.  Carol spent a few years working outside of the home, but her greatest joy was always found at home as a loving wife and mother.  She was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Roger Duster, on May 25, 1968, and they were blessed with three children, Kyle, Gina, and Kevin, and 54 wonderful years together.

Carol took great pride in presenting the opportunity to insure that her children were brought up to be responsible, intelligent, and caring adults.  She was especially excited to spend lots of time with her grandchildren whom she loved to spoil to just the right amount.  In her later years, Carol treasured her time with her only great-grandson, Taevion, who at an early age, realized just how easy it was to get his way with Gramma.

Carol enjoyed going to classic car shows with her husband, Roger, while making many friends along the way.  She had her very own street rod which she drove over 50,000 miles in traveling to shows.  She was also a continually happy and joy-filled person who really enjoyed utilizing her talents in the kitchen.  She was an excellent cook and was always ready to whip up something from one of her favorite recipes.

We will miss Carol with all of our hearts and seek comfort in the abundance of beautiful memories which she now leaves behind.  Thank you, Carol, for reminding us that life is precious and each day is a blessing when we are able to spend it with those we truly love.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Carol include,

her loving husband,
Roger F. Duster, Dubuque, IA;

her three adored children,
Kyle (Shelly) Duster, Ainsworth, IA,
Gina Harkey, Dallas, TX,
and Kevin (fiancé Ashley Duschen) Duster, Millville, IA;

her grandchildren,
Courtney, Nicole, Bayley, Tyler, Cassidy, Gage, and Hunter;

her great-grandson,
Taevion, and another great-grandchild on the way;

her sister,
Cheryl (Bill) Kramer, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her father and mother-in-law; and her very special granddaughter, Kylie Jo Duster.

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

Martin J. Franzen

Martin J. “Mart” Franzen, 84, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday morning, March 19, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Martin John Franzen was born on June 24, 1938 in Bernard, Iowa, to Mathias and Mary (Dwyer) Franzen.  He attended country school and was a 1952 graduate of Richland Township.  After graduation, he worked for area farmers including Harlan Tonderum as a farm hand for a couple of years until he found a job working for the Chicago Northwestern Railroad of Clinton until being laid off.  He then took a job as a machine operator with International Paper in Clinton until retirement.

“Mart” loved playing cards, pool, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family.  He especially enjoyed socializing with friends and family and having an adult beverage from time to time.

Those left to honor his memory include brothers, Marvin (Barb) Franzen of Maquoketa, IA, Wayne (Julia) Franzen of Maquoketa, IA, and Edward “Butch” (Marie) Franzen of DeWitt, IA; sisters, JoAnn Reiter of Anamosa, IA, Patsy (Orville) Wagner of Delmar, IA, and Rita Hughes of Maquoketa, IA; over 50 nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Bev Sherwood of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents,    brothers Vincent, Gerald, James and Leonard, and sisters Anna Marie Wagner, Marcelene Eganhouse and Rosalia Franzen.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, March 24, 2023 at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9:30 A.M. to 11:15 A.M at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Martin J. “Mart” Franzen memorial fund has been established.

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

Henry C. Nolting

Henry C. Nolting, 87, of Preston, passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2023.  Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Saturday, March 25, 2023 at Green Island Congregational Church.  Family will greet friends 9:30 am until service time also Saturday at the church.  Burial with Military Honors Conducted by Preston American Legion Post #602 will be in Hazen Cemetery.

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

Henry was born May 26, 1935 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Henry and Avelda (Clark) Nolting.  He graduated from Preston High School in 1953 and then served his country in the US Army 1954-1957.  Henry married Karen Teeple on September 13, 1959 at the Green Island Congregational Church, she passed December 28, 2004.  They raised two children, Dwain and Diann.

Henry was a true farmer from a early age and farmed his entire life.  He also held various odd jobs over the years, including Ralston Purina, Swiss Colony, and Eberhart Farm Center.  Henry lived in the Preston area his entire life and was an avid supporter of his local businesses.  His family would like to thank them for treating him so kindly.  Henry enjoyed socializing, supervising, and cruising Jackson County.

Survivors include his daughter, Diann Nolting of Preston; grandchildren, Kevin, Katie, and Tomi Jo; a great-grand daughter, Nora; a brother, Roger Nolting, and a sister, Janet Hehr.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a son, Dwain Nolting; an infant brother, Dwain, and a sister Carolyn.

A memorial fund has been established in Henry’s memory.

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

Caroline M. Welsh

That almost 90 year old fun loving, “Out to Lunch” lady, Caroline M. (Bach), (Drumm), (Kennicker) Welsh, of Dubuque passed away from lung cancer on Thursday, March 16, 2023.  To honor Caroline’s life, family and friends are encouraged to come and have some great laughs and fun from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, March 24, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 3:45 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Mom wanted a joyous and fun occasion, no tears, and she has provided a little ceramic token of her life for all to take home.

Caroline began her extraordinary life on July 8, 1933, at her parents’ home at 2420 Queen Street.  She was the daughter of William F. and Caroline “Carrie” (Weiland) Bach. She was born on a Saturday at 6 p.m., and baptized the next day at 1 p.m., at Sacred Heart Church.  Her Godparents were Mildred DeWachter and Charles Martin Bach.  She was the last surviving child from her family.

When Caroline was 10 years old her father, William, who was a engineer with the Milwaukee Railroad, died (age 54 years old on March 16, 1944), suddenly from a  heart attack while driving the train into the Dubuque yard.  From that point on she grew up very fast and started to help her mother, Carrie, with chores around the house.  She attended Sacred Heart School and was known to assist the local neighbors by getting groceries and planting gardens for her family and others.  Sometimes she washed and set the neighbors’ hair.  The great depression era and World War II was hard for Caroline and her family.  It made her understand what hardships were really about, enjoying the company of neighbors and having a little fun along the way.

Caroline’s first husband, Peter W. Genz-Drumm, and she were married on Sept 27, 1952, in Dubuque at St. Mary’s Church.  They had one daughter, Lynn.  They divorced in 1954, and Peter Drumm died on April 12, 1999.  She married her second husband, Robert A. Kennicker, on April 26, 1958, in Lancaster, Wisconsin.  Caroline and Robert had 4 kids together, 2 sons, Karl and Kelvin and twin daughters, Robin and Rox.  Robert adopted Lynn in 1959.  Robert and Caroline divorced in 1969, and he died on June 8, 2007.  In 1970, on New Year’s Eve, Caroline then married Melvin L. Welsh at the 2929 Elm Street residence.  She later divorced Melvin in 1980, and he died on June 21, 1993.

Caroline started working at the age of sixteen at the Sweetheart Bakery, AKA Trausch Bakery, and she had a blast there making donuts.  She left there and started working at Montgomery Ward’s for a short period of time.  Caroline was then hired at the Dubuque Packing Company in 1952, and she loved the people there.  They were an extended family to her.  She was a member of the Local # 150 of the Amalgamated Meat Cutters and Butcher Workman Union.  She enjoyed working in many of the departments at the packing house, and was able to retire in 1977.  Mom donated many artifacts and pictures for the Telegraph Herald book, People of the Pack, published in 2014.

After retirement from the packing house, Caroline worked at The Kennedy Mall and Kohl’s Dept. Store.  She was an active member of the Democratic Party, and volunteered for many moons at the Dubuque County election polls.  She loved the interacting with people at the polls.

Caroline and Bob bought their home in 1958, and remodeled it from top to bottom many times.  Mom was always proud of the house and kept it in great shape.  It is where she wanted to live until she died, and she got her wish. She loved the house and people who visited it.  In Caroline’s spare time she loved butchering at Marvin and Mary Kennicker’s farm, it was fun for her and she always got to talk with relatives.  Mom would also crochet Afghans for every family member.  She organized the Bach family genealogy in 1980, and finished in 2014.  Caroline took many photographs of family and vacations.  She enjoyed playing Euchre and Cribbage with friends and family.  In 1985, Bill taught Caroline how to play Cribbage.  In the fall of that year, Caroline found out that her brother, Oliver “Ben”, was teaching her daughter, Rox, how to play. When Bill came back to Iowa, Caroline, Bill, Ben and Rox all played Cribbage together as a group until Ben died in 1989.  She was very competitive and loved to win every kind of game she played.  Once, while playing Monopoly, she beat out 6 other friends and broke the bank.  Caroline really enjoyed dancing at the Melody Mill, roller skating at the Gem and Point Roller rink and ice skating at Comiskey Field.

Caroline and her brother, Irv, enjoyed vacationing with their brother, Bill Bach, in Martinsdale, Montana.  During these wonderful visits their time was spent hunting and fishing in the Castles, Crazy and the Little Belt Mountains.  One of the best times that Bill and Caroline had together was when Bill shot Antelope, Buck deer, Spiked Elk and filled his permit quota for the year.

Caroline was given the special gift from God of five children, three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Caroline loved her pet cats, Baby Bell, Trooper, and especially Cleo, who was with Caroline for 23 years and died on December 10, 2001.  The Christmas holidays were Caroline’s favorite time of year.  She loved to make her favorite Christmas cookies and Christmas dinner, and decorating the house inside and out.  She also loved the snow and thought it was beautiful, but truly hated driving in it.

Caroline had many special friends throughout her life including: Lois Moes, Anthony “Tony” Pfab Sr.(deceased), and a very dear friend, Mabel Barnett (deceased), who lived in Livingston, Montana, plus her classmates from school, the Dubuque Pack, the Sweetheart Bakery and other places that she worked, plus many relatives throughout the United States.  She was the Godmother to William Norman Brown of Dubuque Iowa, and Pamela Bach of Rockford, Illinois.

Surviving are

her children,
Lynn Gilbreath, Dubuque,
Karl (Jackie) Kennicker, Bondville, IL
and twin daughters,
Robin M. Kennicker, Dubuque
and Rox Ann “Roxie”  Kressig, Kieler, WI;

3 grandchildren,
Christina Neyen, Krystal Rose (Jason) Faust and Kelvin Robert (Jacey) Kennicker, all of Dubuque;
2great-grandchild,
Landon Paul Faust and Leighton Rose Faust;

a former son-in-law,
Joseph Neyen;

former sisters-in-law,
Sandy (Tom) Tremble, Alvina (Ralph) Hatch and Illa (Marvin) Menge;

former brother-in-law,
Richard (Mary Ellen) Drumm;

and her nieces, nephews and cousins,
Elizabeth (Bach) Biehl, Pamela Bach, Paula (Bob) Lange, Maureen (Mark) Mosse, Debra Justman, William, Paul, and Joseph Brown, Vivian (Snyder) Fluhr, Jim, Johnny, Joey (Amy Baus), Jeffery (Sue) Kennicker, Patrick Mulligan, Duane (Betty) Ernst, Gerald (Patricia) Kennicker, Ricky (Ginger) Kennicker, Ronnie Kennicker, Terry (Diane) Kennicker, David (Lori) Kennicker, Debra (Joe deceased) Miller, Donna (John, deceased) Wood, Diane (JL) Love, Denise (Dan) Freeman, Dawn (Tom) Ruskell and Darlene (Jeff) Sibley; and her great-nieces and nephews, Jamie, Brett, Alexander, Shannon, Abbey, Maddie, Vicki, Wyatt, Scott, Jason, Christopher, Nicholas, Nathan, Cory, Brenda, Brady, Allison, Jessica, Gabriel, Lyda, Austin, Preston, Travis, Brian, Tyler, Amber, Nicolas, Dalton, Devin, Aaron, Alec and Adam.

Caroline is proceeded in death by

her parents,
William and Caroline (Wieland) Bach;

a son,
Kelvin Joseph Kennicker;

a great-granddaughter,
Taylor (Neyen) Downey;

her brothers,
William and friend (Mabel Barnett), Irwin “Irv”, Eldon (Mary), Oliver “Ben” and friend (Jenny Schmalz), and infant Delbert Bach;

a sister,
Vivian “Dolly”, (Norman Brown deceased), (David) Snyder;

her former husbands,
Pete W. Genz-Drumm, Robert A. Kennicker and Melvin L. Welsh;

a niece,
Marilyn Mulligan;

a nephew,
Paul Brown;

2 sons-in-law,
Larry Gilbreath
and Jerry Kressig;

former sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law,
Darlene Genz, Mitzy (Don) Fuller, Marjorie “Sally” (Don) Erni, Harold Sauegling Jr., Laura Kennicker, Richard (Ruth) Kennicker, Arnold (Betty) Kennicker, Pauly Kennicker, Marvin (Mary) Kennicker, Ann (Harold) Ernst (Bob) Bechen, Mildred (Welsh) Bob Ross, Edith (Doren) Phillips, Gilbert, Jess, Cecil Welsh and Dennis (Ester) Welsh;

former mothers-in-law and fathers-in-law,
Leo & Cleo Genz-Drumm, Arthur & Irene Kennicker and Melvin & Elsie Welsh;

grandparents, Herman & Margaret Weiland, Martin & Jeanette Bach;

great-grandparents, Martin & Eva Specht, Phillip & Christina Weiland and Albert & Hendricka Von Haldren;

and a close family friend,
Ted Roepsch.

Over the years Mom had many special doctors and team members who helped her.  Thank you to Grand River, Courtney Kueter and Jessie, Dr. Khan at Finley, Dr. Mike Chapman and Shannon and Dr. Tara Brock at Medical Associates and the entire cancer team.  Breast cancer specialist, Dr. Lillian Erdahl, eye specialist, Dr. Ian Han at Iowa City Hospitals and Clinics, and last but not least, the wonderful team at Hospice of Dubuque.  A huge thanks to all of you for many wonderful years of dedication and the great healthcare you provided Mom.

Mom was unique in her own special way.  Our Mother always had food on the table, clothes on our backs and a roof over our heads.  She always educated us about responsibility, respect, and the values of life, which we very much appreciate.  All of us kids have grown and were strengthened by that.  Mom always had a special saying, if she had the money to buy something, she would buy it, otherwise she waited until she did have it, and then bought it.  But somehow Mom always managed to make us smile and enjoy the little things in life, we deeply appreciate that.  Mom will be missed by all her family and friends.

Mom’s favorite saying was, “I was out to lunch”, she even had special license plates with that phrase.

Mom, we love you and miss you very much!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Kennicker children in Caroline’s memory and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Caroline Welsh Family.

The complete obituary may be read and online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Mary A. Behnke

Mary A. Behnke, 86, of Dubuque, died Monday, March 20, 2023, at the her home surrounded by her loving family.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be 10:30 am Friday, March 24, 2023, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born May 13, 1936, in Dubuque, the daughter of Ambrose Cyril and Katherine Margaret Carr Blake. On June 20, 1959, she married Joseph John Behnke at St. Philomena’s Catholic Church in Asbury. He passed away on June 20, 2010.

She graduated from St. Columbkille High School in 1954.

Mary was a homemaker and farmer for most of her life. She worked at Adam’s Company shortly out of high school until marriage and later worked at Burger King for several years when her children were grown.

She was a member of Church of the Resurrection. Mary enjoyed gardening, raising chickens and selling eggs, watching wildlife, and playing board games and cards. She loved spending time with her grandkids.

Survivors include two sons, Dennis Behnke and Kenneth Behnke, both of Dubuque; two daughters, Donna (Gary) Augustin of Cuba City, WI, and Nancy (Keith) Hohmann of Peosta, IA; seven grandchildren, Shelly (Andrew Brant) Augustin, Brian Augustin, Julie Augustin, Isabelle (Luke Hermsen) Behnke, Nicholas Behnke, Blake (Becky Yu) Hohmann, and Chase Hohmann; one brother, David Blake of Shawnee, KS; two sisters, Barbara Blake and Patricia Kirk, both of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; one brother-in-law, Loren “Toby” Kirk; one sister-in-law, Clara (James “Bergie”) Bergfeld; three nephews, William “Bill” Blake, Art Wille, and Roger Bergfeld Sr.; one niece, Sheryl Behnke, and one great-great-nephew, Roger Bergfeld III.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque and Church of the Resurrection.

The family extends a special thanks to the numerous doctors and nurses at Finley Hospital and Grand River Group, especially Dr. Cynthia Konz and nurse Cherie Faulhaber. Thank you also to family and friends who helped care for mom while at home, sisters Pat and Barb, niece/goddaughter, Theresa Blake, and caregivers from No Place Like Home, Home Instead, and Hospice of Dubuque.  Also, a special thank you to the staff at Hawkeye Care Center for their loving care and support.

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

Jewel M. Kieffer

Jewel Michelle Kieffer, 30 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away suddenly on March 15, 2023.

Visitation for family and friends will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a sharing service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Jewel was born on January 22, 1993, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Jason Michael Kieffer and Jody Lynn (Kennedy) Kieffer-Davis.

She graduated from Senior High School in 2011. Jewel was a stay at home mom who loved nothing more than to spend time with her children. She enjoyed taking pictures and listening to music.

She is survived by her sons: Liam Michael Kieffer, Silas John Teel, E. J. Runde and Malekai Kieffer Moore.  Her mother Jody Lynn Kieffer-Davis; step-father Timothy Robert Davis; her siblings: Skye Lynn Kieffer, Destiny Star Peace Kieffer, Gunnar Aryan Michael Kieffer, and Natahliya Harmony Grace Kieffer. Grandparents: Mary Lou Konrardy, Arleta Kathryn Kieffer, John (Kathy Sheth) Kennedy. She is also survived by E.J.’s father Eric Runde who was a special friend to her and Eric’s mother Deb Runde who was always there for Jewel. Her best friends Emily Ruh and Ell Vazquez also survive her.

Jewel was preceded in death by her father Jason Michael Kieffer and her grandfather Richard Konrardy.

The family would like to thank everyone who was always there for Jewel, who never gave up on her or judged her. A special thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Degandorf, Brandon Degandorf and Deb Runde for all that you are doing and will be doing.

David A. Nissen

David A. Nissen, 64, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away surrounded by family at his home from complications of ALS on Saturday morning, March 18, 2023.

David Andrew Nissen was born on May 18, 1958 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Donald F. and Phyllis J. (Rugger) Nissen.  He was a 1976 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  He married Lynn Ann Dreessen on May 8, 1981 at the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.

David had first worked for Stickley Electric in Maquoketa for ten years, and then for Mayberry TV and Appliance in Maquoketa as a service technician for 28 years.  Lastly, he worked for G.L Stockham and Son Construction in Maquoketa until retirement.

David was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa and the Elk Foundation.  He also was a Benefactor member of the NRA.  He loved hunting for deer, elk and rattlesnakes with his family and buddies.  He also enjoyed camping and golfing and loved terrorizing everyone he cared about.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Lynn Nissen of Maquoketa, IA; children, Rae (Greg Schmitz) Simonin of Baldwin, IA, Rhonda (Jack) Hulsebus of Maquoketa, IA, and Kelly (John) Cavanagh of Maquoketa, IA; 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; siblings, Cindy (Fred) Hoffman of Alpharetta, GA, and Chris (Mara) Nissen of Maquoketa, IA; and 2 nieces and 1 nephew.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Jonathan Owen Nissen.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 6 P.M., Thursday, March 23, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 3 P.M. to 5:45 P.M. on Thursday prior to the service at the funeral home.  A celebration of life reception will also be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Friday, March 24, 2023, at the Timber Center in Maquoketa.  A private burial will be held at a later date at East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or the David A. Nissen memorial fund.

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

Charlene R. Bradley

Charlene Ruth Bradley, 92, of Dubuque, died Friday, March 17, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Monday, March 20, 2023 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Charlene will be 10:30 am Monday, March 20, 2023, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Father David Schatz as Celebrant and Father Dennis Quint as the Concelebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Charlene was born May 8, 1930, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Martin Holland and Florence Milz Shea. On October 4, 1952, she married John P. Bradley at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in McGregor, IA. He passed away June 12, 2018.

She graduated from Marquette Iowa High School. She was a homemaker.

Charlene was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church for most of her life.

Survivors include two sons, Michael (Jody) Bradley of East Dubuque, IL, and Patrick (Joan) Bradley of Dubuque; one daughter, Maureen (Tony Craine) Bradley of North Liberty, IA; five grandchildren, Andrew (Jenny) Bradley, Erin (Shawn) Fiedler, Adam (Miranda) Bradley, Kevin Bradley, and Killian Ritland; four great-grandchildren, Riley Bradley, Sean Bradley, Jackson Bradley, and Grace Wanke; and two sisters, Elaine Doyle of Madison, WI, and Judy Demetris of Arizona.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her step-father, James Shea, three brothers, Gerald, James, and Terrance Shea, and one sister, Mary Bye.

Thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center for their special care.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Opening Doors Maria House.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Charlene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Judith A. Shaffer

Judith A. “Judy” Shaffer, 76, of Platteville, WI, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully, with her family at her side. Her heart answered the call from the Lord on Friday, March 17, 2023, at the Southwest Health Center in Platteville.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Judith will be 11:00 am on Saturday, March 25, 2023, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Saturday at the church.

Judy was born July 14, 1946, daughter of Fredrick and Margaret (Kolf) Jensen, in Dubuque, Iowa, where she grew up with her two brothers, Duane and Fred. Judy attended grade school and was a lifelong member of St. Joseph the Worker. Judy graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then received a cosmetology degree from the Dubuque Beauty Academy. She worked as a licensed hairdresser up until getting married and having her two children. Judy later worked as a press operator for Regency Thermographers and JoAnn Fabrics and Crafts in Dubuque.

Judy enjoyed watching basketball and football, she was an avid Packers and Kansas City Chiefs fan. She enjoyed sewing, drawing, painting, and growing flowers and houseplants as she had a green thumb. Judy loved her pets and especially her grand-puppy and kitties. She loved to spend time with friends and family, visiting with her grandchildren and going for ice cream with them.

Judy was blessed with two very special people in her life; her beloved sister-in-law, her rock, Sharon Jensen of Inola, OK, and her dearest friend, through thick and thin, Connie Steger of Dubuque.

Judy is survived by her daughter, Dawn (Joe) Langmeier of Platteville, WI; her son, Steven (Krista) Shaffer of DeWitt, IA; six grandchildren, Hanna, Sara, and Eli Langmeier, Samantha Rasch, Austin Hansen, and Kailey (Robert Jones) Hansen; four great-grandsons; her brothers, Duane (Sharon) Jensen of Inola, OK and Fred Jensen of Buchanan Dam, TX; and niece and nephews, Kim, Mark, Michael, and Reese Jensen of Inola, OK.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrick and Margaret Jensen, and grandparents, Marjorie Jensen and Frank and Anna Kolf.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Southwest Health Center, nurse Amanda, and the staff at Sienna Crest and Our House Assisted Living. And especially, Dr. Jeffrey White and nurse Kelsey at Medical Associates in Platteville for all the care they gave Judy in her final months.

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 Judith’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mary P. Greibe

Mary P. Greibe, 85, of Galena, IL passed away Thursday, March 16, 2023, unexpectedly at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. The funeral mass will be held at 11 am, Saturday March 25, 2023,  at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call after 10 am until the time of mass. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, is assisting the family.

She was born November 6, 1937, in Galena the daughter of Joseph and Pauline (Bussan) Dillon. She graduated from St. Mary’s Academy, Prairie Du Chein, WI, in 1955. She went on to attend Mount Mary College and eventually graduated from Clarke College, Dubuque, IA. Mary was an elementary school teacher for 43 years until her retirement.

She married Joseph M. Greibe on July 3, 1970, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and he survives. She was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was a devoted wife and mother and will be dearly missed.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Joseph, one daughter, Josie (Dan) Collins, of Madison, WI, a sister, Henrietta Farr of Bellingham, WA, two brothers, Martin (Joan) Dillon of Menominee, IL, and Joseph Dillon Jr. of Springfield, IL, her many nieces and nephews, and her special fur baby, Chloe.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Sheila Dillon, and Ruth Dillon Schoop, and a brother-in-law Wilbur Farr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Mary’s Catholic Church or Clarke University in memory of Mary.

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

Jane A. Kemler

Jane Ann Kemler, 74, of Dubuque, died Friday, March 17, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

A funeral service will be held at 4:30 pm Monday, March 20, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:30 pm.

Jane was born January 9, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Harold F. and Patricia Rapp Kemler.

Jane graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1967. She was a member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Jane recently retired from Culvers where she was proud to have been a former Employee of the Month! She enjoyed her work at Culvers because she absolutely loved working with and being around other people. Jane was known for being a huge fan of Mickey Mouse and Disney. She also enjoyed going to the casino and was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Survivors include her daughter, Heidi (Chris) Brown of Southlake, TX; two grandchildren, Brooke and Lauren; four sisters, Linda (Ron) Jump of Moline, IL, Sandy Kemler, Karen (Tom) Shaffer, and Connie Kemler all of Dubuque and nieces and nephews, Chrissy Besler, Michael  Jump, Katie Trujillo, Mac Jump, Andy Shaffer, and Ben Shaffer.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her significant other, Charles Muehlemann.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to her sister, Karen for taking such great care of Jane over the years.

A memorial has been established for the Dubuque County Humane Society.

“Laughter is timeless and imagination has no age.” – Mickey Mouse

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

Shirley J. Hansen

Shirley J. Hansen, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury, Iowa.

In keeping with her wishes, private family services will be held. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Shirley was born on July 23, 1932, in Balltown, the 4th daughter of 15 children of Claretta (Brimeyer) and Leon Breitbach.  She had fond memories growing up in the small town with tales of roaming around the woods and farm, playing with her sisters and neighbors, sleigh riding, delivering milk to the church, eating her mother’s pies and riding with her father as he delivered mail.  She graduated from St. Joseph Academy high school.

She was united in marriage to Donald Hansen, on September 12, 1953, at Saint Patrick’s Church.  He passed away on March 30, 2019.

Shirley worked at the Dubuque Packing Company, then became a homemaker (with 5 children in 8 years), and later worked at the Warehouse Market and Econofoods grocery.  In her free time, she enjoyed reading, gardening, lunches and shopping with her friends, playing cards, and other family activities.  She and Don wintered in Arizona for many years, and they were lifelong members of Holy Ghost Parish.  Shirley was a loving, kind and generous wife, mom, and friend, was well-loved by many, and will be missed by all.

Survivors include her children: Dirk (Tiffany) Hansen of Dubuque; Teresa Watson of Allen, Texas; Greg Hansen of Bloomington, Minnesota; and Paul Hansen of Dallas, Texas; and her siblings Carol Obrien, Betty Frommelt, Paul Breitbach, Jerry Breitbach, Jeanie Kruse, Larry Breitbach and Clare Gaston.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, Don, her son Jeff Hansen, and her siblings, Anna Kemp, Peter Breitbach, Mary Pink, Joe Breitbach, Velma Brahm, Charlie Breitbach and Phillip Breitbach.

Shirley’s family would like to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of Luther Manor Grand Meadows for the thoughtful, loving care they provided.  A special thank you to her many friends, former coworkers, and neighbors whose company she enjoyed over her many years with us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity in memory of Shirley.

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