Obituaries Archive

Raymond A. Young

Raymond Austin Young, 77 of East Dubuque, IL passed away on March 16, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City, IA. A celebration of life will be held at 4 PM, Saturday, April 29, 2023, at the Galena Bible Church, Galena, IL. Military honors will be accorded following the service at the church by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The burial will be at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born July 7, 1945, in Chapel Hill, TN, the son of William and Mary (Walls) Young. Ray received a GED in the army and spent a few years at Harper Community College. He was drafted in 1966 and served in the United States Army Signal Corps serving as a Sergeant until his honorable discharge in 1968. Ray married Joan Elizabeth Monroe on July 2, 1966, at Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago she preceded him in death on April 8, 2019. R

ay worked in the printing industry until he retired in the early 2000s and moved to Galena. He worked at Gasser Hardware, Galena for a couple of years. Ray will fondly be remembered first and foremost as a family man; Dad instilled the motto “You do for family”. He was an avid professional wrestling fan. Ray was “Mr. Fixit” and could fix anything. He always had a hat on whether that was a cowboy hat in the 80s or a Harley Davidson beret.

Ray is survived by his three children, Wendi Young-Watkins, and James Peter “JP” Young, both of East Dubuque, IL, and Raymond A. (Chris) Young, of Wausau WI, three granddaughters, Brittany Young, of Okinawa, Japan, Lily (Trevor) Young-Konkel of Wausau, and Abigail (Maddy) Young of Wausau, one brother Larry (Johnia) Young, of Bensenville IL and his many nieces, nephews and extended family both in Chicago and Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, six brothers and sisters, Bud, Molly, Jolly, Polly, Nancy, and Peggy.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to East Dubuque Fire and Rescue, the staff at Mercy One Hospital Dubuque and the University of Iowa Hospital, Medical ICU, Dr.s Sanchez and Lynn, and all his nurses, Alissa, Cami, Maddie, and Josie. You took such amazing care of Dad and our family.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Barbara E. Sprague

Barbara E. Sprague, 80 years old, of Galena, IL, and formerly of Western Springs, IL passed away peacefully in the early morning of Friday, March 17, 2023. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday, April 29, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

She was born August 6, 1942, to Walter and Ellen Olson in Chicago and attended Lyons Township High School where she met her husband, Thomas C. Sprague.

Barb will be remembered for her green thumb, love of cats, monitoring consumption of her Nutter Butters inventory, and meals with her visiting family at Culvers.

She is survived by two sons, Steven (Barbara) of Downers Grove, IL, and Peter (Amanda Salfity) of New Palestine, IN; four grandchildren, Rebecca, Rachel, Adrianna, and Addison; a brother, Donald (Judie) Olson; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband.  

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Safe Haven or The Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation in memory of Barb.

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

Dana C. Busch

Dana Catherine Busch, 53, of Minnetrista, formerly of Cedar Falls, Iowa, died Saturday, April 15, 2023, at her home.

She was born April 6, 1970, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Charles and Shirley (Hansen) Busch. She graduated from the Iowa Braille & Sight Saving School in 1991. She serviced her community by volunteering in various ways. She truly enjoyed her work at the Cedar Falls MDA Office and at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. Dana was a light of God’s love to all she encountered and brought smiles and laughter to many people in her life.

Survivors include her father, Chuck Busch of Minnetrista, MN; five siblings, Debra (Dan) Schultz of Dyersville, IA, Chuck (Veronica) Busch of Johnston, IA, Dawn (Jim) Pitts of Las Vegas, NV, Laurie Busch of Minnetrista, MN, and Lisa (David) Fisher of Minnestrista, MN; eight nieces and nephews; and four great-nieces and great-nephews.

Dana is preceded in death by her mother, Shirley Busch, and grandparents, Andrew and Helen Hansen and Joseph and Margret Busch.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Dubuque on Saturday, April 22 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, with the visitation starting at 9:00 AM, Mass at 10:00 AM with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial service will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Lunch will be held at The Hotel Julian Dubuque.

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

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

Terry J. Healy

Terry J. Healy of Dubuque passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 11th 2023 at the age of 64.  To celebrate Terry’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Terry, son of Robert and Yvonne (Janzig) Healy, was born on June 17th, 1958 in Dubuque, Iowa. Terry graduated from Senior High School and served in the US Army from 1976-1979. In 1988 he met his partner in life, Pam Kopp, and shortly after the two had Sherri, their only child together. Sherri was the pride and joy of Terry’s life.

Terry was truly one of a kind. He was best known for his hilarious impersonations, contagious sense of humor, skilled artistry and heart of gold. He was also a man of many hobbies: a self-taught artist, collector, dancer and bowler – achieving multiple 700 series and 300 games in his prime. He was a loyal Packer and Yankee fan and life-long music lover and Beatles fanatic. Terry was the life of the party and the man who would have given a stranger the shirt off his back. He will always be remembered for his whimsical spirit and genuine selflessness.

Those left to cherish Terry’s memory include:

Daughter, Sherri Healy, Belmont, CA
Step daughter, Shannon Bennett, New Hampton, IA;

Granddaughters,
Katelyn and Ashlyn Gross;

His siblings,
Mary (Ken) Melloy, Queen Creek, AZ
Pat (Mickey) Healy, Guttenberg, IA
Karen “Bitty” Healy, Dubuque, IA
Dan Healy, Dubuque, IA
Mike (Shelley) Healy, Dubuque, IA.

Terry was preceded in death by his partner Pam, his parents, his niece Abby Healy and his siblings Linda, Sherry, Kathy and Tim Healy.

The family would like to thank the emergency responders and Behr’s funeral home for their care, professionalism and kindness.

Doris A. Hoppman

Doris Ann (Kuhl) Hoppman, age 85, of Menominee, IL, passed away on Sunday, April 16, 2023 at home with her family by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, April 19^th at Nativity BVM Catholic Church in Menominee, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish and St. Ann’s Society Rosary will be recited at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.  Visitation will also be from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Doris was born January 29, 1938 at Cuba City, Wisconsin, the daughter of Melvin W. and Marie A. (Neis) Kuhl.  She was united in marriage to Thomas W. Hoppman on August 1, 1959 at St. Joseph Church, Sinsinawa, WI.  He preceded her in death on March 13, 2006.

She was a graduate of St. Clara Academy, Sinsinawa, WI. Doris enjoyed Ceramic Painting, Reading, Camping and a good game of Euchre. She was a member of Nativity BVM Parish and it’s St. Ann’s Society.

Surviving are four children, Gayle (Jeff) Springer, Dubuque, IA, Todd Hoppman of East Dubuque, IL, Randy (Peggy Sue) Hoppman of Galena, IL, and Clark (Karen) Hoppman of Shullsburg, WI; fifteen grandchildren, Jason (Melissa) Hoppman, Matt (Becca) Hoppman , Tristan (friend Lexi) Springer, Tiffany (Nick) Theisen, Tyler (Tiffany) Springer, Tanner Springer, Jordan Hoppman, Jennifer (Josh) Redmond, Jason (Emily) Dalen, Joe (Kathy) Dalen, Sierra (fiancé Alec Metz) Hoppman, Kyle (friend Tiffany) Hoppman, Isaac (friend Maria) Hoppman, Brandon (friend Valerie) Hoppman and Jamie Hoppman; 14-great grandchildren and two on the way; her siblings, Glenda Miller of East Dubuque, IL and Dick (Terry) Kuhl of Cuba City, WI.; and several nieces and nephews, especially Gerry (Chris) Hoppman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Marie, her husband Thomas W. Hoppman, two sons, Marty and Gary, her in-laws, Phillip and Genevieve Hoppman, grandsons, Austin, Alex, and Randy Hoppman, Jr., brother and sister-in-law, Joe (Joan) Kuhl and brother-in-law, Bruce Miller, “and her cherished dog, Billie Jo, who was her greatest companion after Tom’s passing.”

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

George J. Simon Jr.

George J. “Junior” Simon Jr., 79 of Farley, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, April 14, 2023, at the Oldorf Hospice House in Hiawatha, Iowa.

Visitation for Junior will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023, at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m., the Farley Knights of Columbus rosary at 4 p.m. Farley Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:30 p.m., and the Farley American Legion Services will be held at 7:15 p.m., and Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Tuesday, April 18, 2023 at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian burial for Junior will be held on 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating.   Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa where full military honors will be afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656, and the striking of the four fives service afforded by the Farley Fire Department.

He was born on April 17, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George M. and Mary (Hefel) Simon.  He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa. He was united in marriage on June 30, 1964, to Dorann Duschner at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. Junior owned and operated Simon Feed Store and J & B Feed store in Farley, Iowa until his retirement in 2019.

Junior was an amazing man who was always smiling and spreading smiles along the way.  He played Santa Claus, and the couple played Santa and Mrs. Claus since he was young for organizations, the parish and many families in the area.  He was one of the best pranksters ever.  Junior had a memory of an elephant, he never forgot a joke and enjoyed telling them over and over. He was a gratitude in Volunteering in his community.  He served on the Farley Fire Department as a Firemen, Assistant Chief and Chief for a total of 47 years. He was also member of St. Joseph’s Parish, in Farley, where he also volunteered.  Junior was a Veteran having served in the United States Army Reserves. He was also member of the Farley American Legion Post #656, and the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001.

He also enjoyed camping with his friends, fire department buddies, and truly loved the annual fire department summer convention camp out, where he often played Santa Claus for Christmas in July.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Dorann Simon of Farley; children, Amy (Lee) Steffen, Bill Simon and Kim Simon all of Farley, Angie (Daniel) Kramer, Ann (Charlie) Coyle, both of Epworth, Brenda (Jeremy) Fangmann of Peosta; 12 grandchildren, Christy Maiers, Carmen Rauen, Caitlin Richter, Craig Steffen, Alex Kramer, Ashley Kramer, Michael Coyle, Allison Oberbroeckling, Benjamin “B.J” Coyle, Hannah Fangmann, Ella Fangmann, and Natalie Fangmann; four great grandchildren, Ellie Rauen, Grady Rauen, Rhett Oberbroeckling, and Noelle Richter; eight siblings, Mary Kay Wolfe, of Clinton, Il., Anna Mae (Glen) Hardin of Peosta, Jean Ann Neyen, Donna (Joe) Daly, Lois (Paul) Rauen, Connie Simon, and Sandy Simon, all of Farley, and Marty Simon, of Manchester; His brother and sisters-in-law, Gene (Connie) Duschner of Farley, Iowa; and his number one employee, Tom Bell of Farley.

He also was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Thomas Simon, in 1941, and Roger Simon in 2020; a sister, Betty Simon in 2013; father and mother-in-law, Ben and Dorothy (Klaren) Duschner; two brothers-in-law, Robert Neyen, and Richard Wolfe; two sisters-in-law, Judy Simon, and Sr. Mary Benjamin Duschner PBVM; a niece, Britteny Duschner-Haferman; a nephew, Jayme Duschner; a great nephew, Dylan Hoefer.

Carol A. Bisping

Carol A. (Knobbe) Bisping, age 78, of Itasca, IL, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at Alexian Brothers Medical Center, Elk Grove Village, IL.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 29th at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque, with Fr. Steve Garner officiating.  Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be from 9:00 – 9:50 a.m. on Saturday at the Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.

Carol was born on April 24, 1944, in Dubuque, the daughter of Harry and Viola (Kieffer) Knobbe.

She attended St. Mary’s Elementary School, Wahlert High School, and later N W Business College. After high school, Carol moved to Chicago, IL.  There she raised four children and at the age of 30 she went to school for an Assoc. Degree in Executive Accounting, it was a two-year program which she finished in 18 months. In addition, she was on the Dean’s List consistently, and was honored by Who’s Who among Vocational & Technical Students in America. She worked as a bookkeeper until she retired.

Carol loved to travel and did as much as possible with her sister, Joan Schroeder.

Surviving are three daughters, Diana Dragon, Donna (Dominic) Brandonisio and Darla (Gino) Bonanno; nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren; and her sister, Joan Schroeder of Henderson, NV; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Viola; her son Dean Knobbe, and her sister, Rosemary (Ferd) Reinhardt.

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

William J. Stecher

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Barbara E. French

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mike Switzer

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

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

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

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

He was a 1991 graduate of Hempstead High School.

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

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

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

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

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

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

John R. Kreiman

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

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

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

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

He later married JoAnn Hart.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Loren M. Rice, II

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

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

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Loren include,

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

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

along with many extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Loren was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

Rhonda Basham

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

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

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rhonda include,

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

her 9 grandchildren;

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

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

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

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

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

Charles E. Steffen

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kimberly A. Larson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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