Obituaries Archive

Sr. Mary McElmeel, BVM

Sister Mary McElmeel, BVM (Eugenne), 99, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023.

Rite of Committal for Natural Burial will be Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. preceded by quiet visitation from 10:30 – 11:00 a.m. Natural burial will be in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. Sharing of Memories will be Monday, Oct. 30, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs, followed immediately by a Memorial Mass at 10:30 a.m.

Sister Mary was a pastoral associate at the Cathedral of St. Raphael and a teacher at St. Anthony, both in Dubuque, Iowa.  She was a teacher at St. Jude, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and St. Paul, Davenport, Iowa, where she also served as principal.  In addition, she taught in Chicago; San Francisco; Glendale, Calif.; and Omaha, Neb.  She volunteered in Hispanic ministry in Kankakee County, Ill.  She served the congregation as administrator of the Motherhouse and assistant novice mistress.

She was born on Aug. 18, 1924, in Delhi, Iowa, to Peter and Catherine (Byrne) McElmeel. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1944, from St. Mary Parish, Manchester, Iowa. She professed first vows on March 19, 1947, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1952.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Irene (Wayne) Millburn and Beatrice (Ken) Jenkins; brothers Raymond McElmeel, Elmer (Vi) McElmeel, and James McElmeel.  She is survived by a sister-in-law Elsie McElmeel, Waterloo, Iowa; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 79 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home, 100 N 6th St, Bellevue, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Anthony C. Boland

Anthony C. “Tony” Boland passed away on October 23, 2023, after living an 89-year life filled with love, laughter, and selflessness.

Services will be on Saturday, October 28, at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque. The visitation will be from 9-11, with the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 with Fr. Andy Upah officiating. Interment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery with military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Tony was born on June 14, 1934, in Freeport, IL, to Joseph & Fern (Cheeseman) Boland. Tony was the 8th of 15 children. He grew up in Freeport and Dubuque and spent seven years serving his country in the U.S. Navy. He was very proud of his Navy service and often shared stories of his adventures and travels. After returning home, he met Elizabeth A. (Betty) Kohnen through a blind date set up by his brother Jack’s wife, Marlene. They married on September 14, 1963. They celebrated 60 years together as best friends as well as husband and wife. They welcomed two children into their lives, Marianne (Ken) Fiedler, and David (Lisa) Boland. Tony was a maintenance welder at John Deere for 30 years, retiring in 1994.

Tony was a life-long learner. At the age of 35, he got his GED and taught himself to play the piano, convincing Betty to let him buy one at that point. Music was a very important part of Tony’s life. In addition to the piano, he learned to play the guitar, and took flute lessons after he retired, playing with the New Horizons Band and the Kennedy School band. He also loved to whistle and sing and sang in Nativity’s choir for 58 years.

Tony’s learning took many forms. He took painting lessons, taught himself woodworking and bread-baking. He learned to play cribbage in retirement and then taught countless others to play the game as well. He didn’t learn to read until high school when an older student tutored him. His passion for helping others learn to read was evident in his 19 years of volunteering at Kennedy School in Dubuque, working with kindergarten and second grade students on their letters and reading. He always said, “If you can read, you can do anything.” He lived by that advice.

Tony was a devoted family man. His wife, children, and grandchildren meant the world to him and he would do anything for them. He spent countless hours at his grandsons’ baseball games, scouting events, school concerts, graduations, etc. If there was an event in their lives, “Grandpa Tony” was there. He supported his family through health crises, moves, you name it. If they needed help, Tony was there, with a smile on his face.

“Everybody loves Tony” is something that we said often. He never met a stranger. If you met Tony, you loved Tony. He had many friends through Nativity Church, the Tri-State Travelers Camping Club, square dancing, ham radio group, John Deere, and cribbage at Roberta Kuhn Center.

Celebrating the life of this amazing man are his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth (Betty), his daughter Marianne (Ken) Fiedler, his son David (Lisa) Boland, grandsons Jacob (Megan), & Josh (Stephanie Dahl) Fiedler, Carson & Maximus Boland, and great-grandson, Colter Fiedler. He is also survived by his brother Barney (Char) Boland, and sisters-in-law Marianne Boland, Dolly Boland, Charlotte Boland, and Lois Boland, as well as numerous nieces & nephews, including a very special godson, Mike (Deb) Boland.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Charles (at birth), Leo (Gloria), Joe (Irene), Bill (Vi), Kenny, Mike, Danny (Pat), Bob, Brian (Shirley), Jack (Marlene), and sisters Mary (John) Fangman, Pat (Tony) Pfab, and Ann (Joe) Doyle.

To honor Tony’s memory, we encourage you to read a book with a child, play a game of cribbage, learn something new, or do something nice for someone else. Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque, Birthright of Dubuque, or Dubuque County Right to Life.

We extend our deepest thanks for the wonderful care given to Tony by the staff at Cozy Corners, Grand Meadows, and Hospice of Dubuque. We also want to thank the members of the dementia support groups at Resurrection and Stonehill, and The Woodlands community for their support of Betty during these difficult months.

Thomas W. McLees

Thomas Wayne McLees, 91, of Cascade Iowa and formerly or Rochester MN died peacefully on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at Accura HealthCare of Cascade.

Visitation for Tom will be from 10 to 11 a.m. , Monday, October 30. 2023 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where a mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00  a.m., with Msgr. James Miller presiding.   Interment will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade is assisting the family with arrangements.

Tom was born December 22, 1931 in Chicago IL to Adeline (Kirsch) and Herbert McLees. He graduated from St. Martin’s High School in Cascade in 1950.  Following graduation, Tom enlisted in the Navy, serving in the Philippines and honorably discharged in 1955.

Tom attended Loras Academy, Dubuque Iowa and graduated from Iowa State University in 1959 with a degree in Industrial Administration. His first job was at Collins Radio in Mt. Vernon Iowa. He lived in several cities in the Midwest, retiring from Analysts International Corporation in 1995 after spending 19 years with the company in Rochester MN. After retirement, Tom went to Florida to escape the winters and golfed several days each week.

Tom exhibited a passion for life, traveling to many places throughout the world, including Singapore, Alaska, Hawaii, and Egypt. Tom was in a group affiliated with the Dominics, and the group went on many skiing and camping trips to National parks as well as Europe and the Scandinavian countries. Tom was a certified scuba diver, loved to kayak, an avid biker – both pedal and motorcycle, and ran 5K races, winning many in the 80+ age division.

Tom had a pilot’s license and was very proud of his time spent in the Civil Air Patrol.  He enjoyed going on search and rescue missions and served as a Squadron Commander.

Tom returned to Cascade in 2017, first residing at River Bend Retirement Community and then Accura HealthCare.  The family is grateful to the staff at both facilities, to Deb Rohr, DAP ARNP for her exceptional care, and Hospice of Dubuque for their services in Tom’s final days.  The family is also grateful to Tom’s long- time friends, Geri Welscher and Dennis Ostland for their assistance in the transition from Rochester to Cascade.

Tom is survived by nieces Beth (Matt) McQuillen, Anamosa, Patti (Tim) Gehl, Cascade, Amy Cooper, DeWitt, and nephew Chris (Jalessa) Neiers, Dubuque and their children; Maggie McQuillen, Melissa Gehl, Michelle Gehl, Lauren Cooper, Lexy Cooper, Bennett Neiers and Breckyn Neiers. He was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Marilyn and Paul Neiers, and great nephew Alex Cooper.

Richard D. Cheney

Richard David Cheney, 76, of Dubuque passed away at home Monday October 23, 2023.

Visitation for Richard will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday October 27, 2023, where a funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Andy Upah officiating at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd.

Richard was born December 27, 1946, in Dubuque to Clyde and Erma (West) Cheney. He graduated from Senior High School in 1965. He married Pamela Stuart on August 17, 1968.

Richard was self-employed at Mobile Sound Systems for a time, before working at Energetics doing anything they needed him to do. He was an avid Chicago Bears fan. He enjoyed tractor pulls and Nascar. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife Pamela; his children Christina and Christopher; his brother James (Sherry) Cheney; sister-in-law Sheila (Mark) Kelley; brother-in-law Charles Prada; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in-laws Donald and Madonna Stuart, sisters-in-law Paula Prada and Portia Holloway.

In lieu flowers a of memorial has been established.

John J. McGinn

John J. “Joe” McGinn Jr., age 66, of Guttenberg, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at his home.  To honor Joe’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Fillmore Cemetery.

Joe was born on July 23, 1957, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of John and Donna (Baumhover) McGinn.

Joe was a kind man who enjoyed the simple things in life like a good spicy meal or a big scoop of ice cream.  He brought great joy to his care givers and the other residents of Imagine the Possibilities.  He also looked forward to visits from his siblings.  Joe will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Joe’s memory include

his brothers,
Raymond (Kathy) McGinn, Marathon, NY
and William (Annelda) McGinn, Thomasville, NC;

a foster sister,
Shirley (Jim) McDermott, Dubuque, IA;

and his nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Donna.

Joe’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff of Imagine the Possibilities and the volunteers and workers at Camp Courageous.  Joe truly loved all of you.

In lieu of flowers, the family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in John’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. John McGinn Jr. Family, and will be donated to Imagine the Possibilities and Camp Courageous of Iowa.

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

Irene A. McDermott

Irene A. McDermott, 97, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully in her sleep on October 22, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 27, 2023, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque with Father Dennis Quint officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the start of Mass at 10:30 a.m. at the Church. A burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Irene was born in Dubuque, IA the daughter of Thomas and Kathryn (Burns) Lyons. She married Charles “Chuck” McDermott on November 8, 1952. He preceded her in death on March 23, 2017.

Irene Graduated from St. Columbkille High School and went on to attend The University of Dubuque. She obtained her teaching degree and devoted her entire life to education. She worked for the Dubuque Community School District for 30 years, retiring from Fulton Elementary School.

Irene loved spending time with family and friends. She was an extremely hardworking individual and was compelled to teach any chance she could.

She is survived by her two sons, Steven (Kathryn) McDermott and Mark (Beth Ann) McDermott; two grandchildren, Alexandria, and Keith McDermott; and a great grandchild Matthew Stangl-McDermott.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles; and her siblings, Grace, Jean, Lorraine, and Joseph.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

Kathleen M. Kraus

Kathleen M. Kraus, age 80, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Ramona, CA, completed her earthly journey on October 21, 2023, at Sunset Park Place in Dubuque while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Kathleen’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date with burial to follow in the Nuevo Gardens Cemetery in Ramona, CA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathleen’s family.

Kathleen was born on January 12, 1943, in Brooklyn, N.Y., a daughter to Francis J. and Dorothy M. (Niconovitz) Mulvihill.  She was gifted with a strong and determined will which she carried with her throughout her entire life and only came in second to her love of family.  Kathleen eventually met her soul-mate, Andrew E. Kraus, Sr., when they were merely 16 years old in the Bay Ridge neighborhood in Brooklyn.  In time, while he was honorably serving his country with the U.S. Marine Corps, the two were united in marriage in the November of 1963.  They were blessed with 40 wonderful years together and three boys of their own to love and nurture along the way.  Sadly Andrew was called home ahead of Kathleen on March 3, 2003, and she would spend the next 20 years waiting patiently with a broken heart to see her beloved once again, but this time for all of eternity together at last.

When the boys were young, they decided it was time to move away from the daily adventures of living in Brooklyn, to a quieter life in Ramona, CA.  Kathleen’s love for all things good in this life was allowed to blossom and her family discovered a newfound joy within their new community.  Kathleen’s love for animals became undeniably evident as now there was room for the horses, goats, and ducks to surround them daily.  Kathleen began to raise German Shepherds as well and every animal was virtually adopted to be just like extended family members; the animals were living the good life right alongside the Kraus family.

Kathleen was the epitome of a loving wife and mother and many of the boys’ friends quickly discovered that she was definitely the “cool mom”.  Kathleen was a remarkable woman through and through, always playing her roll perfectly and never missing a beat.  It’s difficult to imagine a world without her bold and confident presence mingled within ours, but we know and trust that the Lord has decided it was time to bring Kathleen home to His loving arms now.  Thank you, Kathleen, for always putting others before yourself, always in love, and never wavering from what you believed to be right in your eyes.  May your lessons and legacy of love be carried on proudly in the lives of your loved ones and may the memories which you leave behind now help to ease the pain of your absence until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathleen include,

her two loving sons,
Edward F. “Eddie”  (Kimberley) Kraus, Ramona, CA,
and Michael P. Kraus, Ames, IA;

her adored grandchildren,
Andrew Paul Michael Kraus, Ramona, CA,
and Sarah Marie Marchele (Jason Shaw) Kraus, Las Vegas, NV;

her brother,
Dennis Mulvihill, Honesdale, PA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kathleen was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Andrew E. Kraus; her son, Andrew E. Kraus, Jr.; and her brother, Francis J. Mulvihill, Jr.

Kathleen’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sunset Park Place and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Kathleen over this past year.  Your sincere love and commitment to her well-being has truly brought some much-needed peace and comfort to the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her during this difficult time, and for that we are forever grateful.

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

Lorraine H. Moyer

Lorraine H. Moyer, 92, of Kieler, WI formerly of Dubuque passed away on October 22, 2023, at St. Dominic Villa Assisted Living.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 30th, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler, WI with a rosary at 3:40p.m.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Church with Fr. Bernie Rott officiating. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Lorraine was born on March 2, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Aubrey and Lorelle (Kirby) Cripe. She graduated from the Visitation Academy in Dubuque. She married the love of her life and best friend Bernard “Bunny” Moyer on June 15, 1957, at Nativity Church and together they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage. Together they had six children, with James who died shortly after birth, and raised their five children.

Bunny preceded Lorraine in death on May 17, 2010.

Lorraine worked for the Central Life Insurance Company until 1952, for United Airlines in Chicago until 1953, she then came back to Dubuque and worked for Interstate Power Company from 1953 to 1957; she then worked for Roshek’s Department Store and lastly at Loras College.

She was a member of the Jamestown Fire Auxiliary, and Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler where she also participated in Bible Study. Lorraine and Bunny loved being outdoors, hunting, and fishing, Lorraine also loved playing cards. But most of all they loved spending time with family and friends, and especially enjoyed the family trips they took with their children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her five children, Thomas (Gabriela Stark) Moyer, of Eau Claire, John (Marsha) Moyer, McMinnville, OR, Dan “Buzz” (Wanda) Moyer, of Trenton, Ohio, Richard (Peggy) Moyer of Cuba City, and Laura (Dave) Popp of Shullsburg. Twenty-one grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. In-laws Carl & Carlyon Moyer, Betty Cripe, Carol Moyer, and Gary Hohmann.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her loving husband Bernard “Bunny”, a son James, and two brothers Ken & Joseph and a special friend Victor Mathias

The family would like to thank all their family, friends, and neighbors, especially Peggy & Gary Trowbridge & family for all the care and kindness they have given over the years. The family would like to thank the outstanding staff at Epione and St. Dominic Villa for their excellent and loving care.

In lieu of flowers please send a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis TN in her name.

David A. Neuhaus

David Allen Neuhaus, 74, of Dubuque, passed away on Sunday, October 22, 2023, at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday October 26th, 2023, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert officiating. Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the start of Mass. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Military Honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

David was born on December 4, 1948, in Dubuque to Edward and Norma (Kall) Neuhaus. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1967. He served in the Vietnam war from 1968-1969. In David’s own words “he was proud of his Navy service. He worked on torpedo tubes and an anti-submarine missile launcher. He also worked in the sonar department watching for submarines. A gunner officer approached him and two friends to be the air intelligence team.” After his service he worked until retirement at John Deere Dubuque Works. David loved the Veteran’s Freedom Center, and he visited there frequently. David was united in marriage to Betty Welter on January 1, 2000.

David is survived by his wife Betty, children Jess (Patti) Sheppard, Nicki (Alicia Jasso) Neuhaus, Ryan Neuhaus, Adam (Brittany) Smith, Eric (Doris) Smith, and Nikki Smith, 10 grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. Siblings: Debbie (Cary) Mandelka, Denise (Jim) Roeder, Doris Marshall, Delores Close, Doug Neuhaus

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Norma, brother Dean Neuhaus, sister Diane Bailey Neuhaus.

In lieu of flowers a Dave Neuhaus memorial fund will be established.

Merlin M. Barry

Merlin M. Barry, 93, of Colesburg, Iowa passed away Saturday, October, 21, 2023 at Edgewood Convalescent Home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 – 11 a.m. on Friday, October 27, 2023 at the Guttenberg United Methodist Church.  Funeral services will commence at 11 a.m. with burial to follow in Bethel Cemetery.  Pastor Neil Hofer will officiate.

Merlin was born on October 28, 1929 in Turkey River, Iowa, the son of Frank and Edith (Miller) Barry.  He attended the country school in Turkey River until his family moved to the family farm when he was a freshman in high school.  His father passed away when he was a junior in high school, leaving him and his brother, Frank, to run the farm.  He graduated from Colesburg High School in 1948.

He was called into the army in January of 1952 and served his country during the Korean Conflict where he was stationed in occupied Germany until January of 1954, a service of which he was very proud.  He returned to the farm and his sweetheart, Eunice Hansel, from high school.  He popped the question; and, on August 21, 1954, he married Eunice at the Methodist Church in Guttenberg, Iowa.  They lived on the Barry farm and farmed until he retired in 1994 and remained on the farm until his passing.  He also loved music and played a guitar with the Frank Barry Orchestra / Band of Stars for many years playing in Iowa, Wisconsin and as far away as the Rockford, Illinois area.   He instilled a love of music in his children by having the dance band practice at his home.   He decided to retire from the band when he was getting home from playing at dances in time to milk cows in the morning.

He was an avid fisherman with his favorite being ice fishing. He also enjoyed a good game of cards with friends and was never one to turn down a potluck social gathering. His favorite past time was spending quality time with his wife, 4 children, 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and all their spouses.

Survivors include his loving wife of 69 years, Eunice; children:  Debra (Dan) Doelz, Michael (Lori) Barry, Diane (Marlin) Johnson and Patricia (John) Robinson III; grandchildren:  Jeffrey (Jackie) Doelz and children, Parker, Blake and Jordynn; Jason (Kelly) Doelz and children, Mary and Connor; Lisa Barry (Rick Felder) and children, Kiera and Jaxsen; Vanessa Barry (Steve) Forest and children, Emma and Lucca; Joshua (Becca) Barry and son, Declan; Crystal Johnson (Shannon) Hansel and children, Sawyer, Brayden, and Azalea; Melanie Johnson Roling and daughter, Hannah; Colin Robinson;  step-grandchildren:  Sarah Robinson Jeanes and children Shane Norman, Samantha, Madison and Gavin;  John (Krista) Robinson IV and children, Spencer and Lilian; and a sister-in-law, Janette Hansel.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Frank (Anna Mae) Barry; in-laws: Cecil and Myrtle Hansel; granddaughter, Alissa Barry; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:  Bethel Cemetery, Guttenberg United Methodist Church, Guttenberg Library or the Guttenberg Veteran’s Memorial.

Barbara A. Blust

Barbara Ann Blust 85, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2023, in Galena, IL.  A celebration of life will be held at Noon, on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may gather after 11 AM until the time of the celebration.

Born in Chicago, the oldest child to John and Henrietta Bletsch, Barbara spent her life in and around the city of Chicago, where she met her high school sweetheart, Ralph L. Blust. Barbara graduated from St. Luke’s School of Nursing in Chicago and continues her education through lifelong in-services and ongoing accreditation programs.  She held nursing positions in numerous healthcare facilities throughout Northern Illinois.  These positions included ER nurse, floor nurse, charge nurse, Assistant Director of Nursing, Director of Nursing, and Patient Care Plan Coordinator. Barbara was a devoted wife and mother, holding positions in many school and church organizations.  Barbara enjoyed baking, sewing, and quilting.

She is survived by her brother, James (Patty) Bletsch, children, Susan (Donald) Steffan, Ralph J. Blust, Jacqueline (David) Ellers; grandchildren, Sarah (David) Sandlers, Rachel (Toly) Melnikov, Ruth Kimball (John Hutzler), Alexandra Blust, Naomi Kimball, Joshua Kimball, Rebecca (Josh) Anderson, David M. Ellers; step-grandchildren, Donald (Jessica) Steffan, Carolanne Steffan, Kelly (Jason) Brown; great-grandchildren, Adelyn, Noah and Eliana Sandlers, Katerina and Sophia Melnikov, Austin Kimball, and Ronnie and Calvin Brown.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Ralph L. Blust, and granddaughter, Barbara Ann Kimball.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Prairie Ridge of Galena, Midwest Senior Care, Galena, and Hospice of Dubuque for the compassionate and comprehensive care Barbara received. Donations in Barbara’s memory can be made to Hospice of Dubuque, at hospiceofdubuque.org/donation

William M. McAuliffe

William M. “Bill” McAuliffe, 68, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, Iowa. A private family service will be held Friday, October 27, 2023, at Holy Ghost Church, Dickeyville, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. There will be no public visitation. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Bill was born on November 8, 1954, at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of John and Marcella (Hesseling) McAuliffe. He graduated from Cuba City High School in 1972.

Bill moved to Rockford, Illinois and earned a BFA degree in Theatre and later an MBA degree from Rockford College. He worked at New American Theatre in advertising until his move to Chicago in 2002. He worked for Marcus Promotions as an advertising executive, selling ads for playbills in the Chicago theatre market. He retired in 2020.

Bill’s first love was the theatre. He performed in different productions. He also sang at family weddings. During his advertising years, Bill moonlighted as an usher at the major Chicago theatres. He was known for his dry sense of humor. He had a sweet and caring personality and loved his family dearly. Bill loved to just hang out and converse with family and friends or play some euchre.

Those left to cherish Bill’s memory are his siblings, Robert (Joyce) McAuliffe, Connie (Rich) Geyer and Richard McAuliffe; plus numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Daniel McAuliffe.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors, nurses and all the staff at University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, IA.

Bill was a successful kidney transplant recipient, so please send donations in his memory to your local kidney foundation.

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

Richard A. Klinefelter

Richard Allan Klinefelter, 87, of Dubuque, died Sunday, October 22, 2023, at his home.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 10:30 am Thursday, October 26, 2023 at Lord of Life Lutheran Church.

The Funeral Service for Richard will be 10:30 am Thursday, October 26, 2023, at Lord of Life Lutheran Church with Pastor Karla Wildberger officiating. Military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Richard was born December 30, 1935, in Mendota, IL, the son of William E. and Cecelia Alice Neideticher Klinefelter. On July 4, 1982, he married Gloria J. Purnell. They built their family through the adoption of five children with special needs.

He was a U.S. Veteran, serving in the Illinois Air National Guard.

Richard was very proud to be a railroad engineer for the Rock Island Railroad and Illinois Central Railroad for 35 years, retiring in 1996.

Richard was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and the Kansas City Chiefs. He enjoyed traveling with his family, hunting and fishing. He was a hard worker, and got much enjoyment in rebuilding his cars in his free time. Richard especially loved his cats, Sweet Pea and Suzy Q who remained by his side until he was called to heaven.

Survivors include his wife, Gloria; his six children, Mark (Gretchen) Klinefelter of Diamond Head, MS, Travis (Kelly “Flipsydudah”) Klinefelter of Dubuque, Becky Klinefelter of Dubuque, Christina Klinefelter of Guttenberg,  Joshua (Sarah) Klinefelter of Dubuque, and Eric Klinefelter of Manchester; and  four grandchildren, Jonathan, Payton, Joshua, and Ty.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Kurtus Klinefelter, one sister, Sharon Hardie, and one brother, William Klinefelter.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and his Lord of Life Church family.

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

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

Leslie J. Toth

Leslie J. Toth, 85 of Dubuque passed away Saturday October 21, 2023, at Luther Manor.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 25, 2023, where a funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road. The Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Leslie was born on May 13, 1938, in Hungary. When he was 19, he fled Hungary and immigrated to the United States. He finished his education in the United States and eventually moved to Dubuque. In Dubuque he owned and operated the Olde Towne Shoppe, where he restored and sold antique furniture. He was a member of the Dubuque Jaycees.

He married Mary Daman and together they had four children. They later separated but remained friends. He later met Marilyn Kapparos and they were companions for many years until she passed.

He enjoyed baseball and camping with Marilyn and their Camping Club. He also enjoyed walking and could be found walking all over Dubuque.

He is survived by his four children Steve, Philip, Carolyn, and Leigh, along with their mother Mary Daman Toth; a grandson William “Bill” Wright Jr.; two great grandchildren Sophia McTaggert and Bailey Wright. He is also survived by his bonus family of Marilyn’s, her 3 children Richard Kapparos, Dean (Jessie) Kapparos, and Troy (Jane Rogers) Kapparos; grandchildren: Hillary, Dickie Dean, Val, Vanessa, Erica, James Jr., Michael, Jayden, Ellesha, Kaylee and Tristan and a great grandson Jiraiya.

He was preceded in death by grandchildren Stephanie Toth and Blaine Wright and his longtime companion Marilyn Kapparos.

Susan Bruck-Powell

Susan Bruck-Powell,76, formerly of Bernard, passed away on Sunday, October 22, 2023 at Ennoble Care Center in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore.  A Scripture Service will begin at 4:00 pm with visitation to follow until 7:00 pm, Friday, October 27, 2023 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore, additional visitation will be 9:00 am until Mass on Saturday.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

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

Susan was born July 4, 1947, the daughter of Cornelius “Neil” and Amelia M. (Regan) Bruck.  She attended Aquin H.S. in Cascade and St. Anthony’s School of Nursing in Rockford, IL.  She completed her BSN from St. Francis College in Peoria, IL.  Her career in nursing included working as a Cardiovascular RN in ICU for 31 years at Riverside Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN where she was active in the Minnesota Nurses Association.  After returning to Iowa she worked at Mill Valley in Bellevue, Bethany Home and before retirement at Sister of Presentation Convent in Dubuque.  She married Arthur Powell on June 7, 1991, he passed on July 28, 1994.

Survivors include 4 stepchildren Debbie (Ken) Tanner and Tim (Lorelei) Powell both of Michigan and Nathan (Liz) Powell and Kelly (Phil) Johnson both of California, 24 step grandchildren 2 step great grandchildren. Susan and her sister Ruth (Joe) Sieverding of Bellevue were bookends to 6 brothers. Tim (Betty) Bruck & Tom (Bonnie) Bruck of Cascade IA Dave (Mary) Bruck of Denison IA , Ken (Marilyn) Bruck & Dennis (Kathy) Bruck both of Dubuque IA. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews and Bruck & Regan first cousins. All of whom she knew by name and loved dearly. Susan was always notorious for leaving bright red lipstick kisses on their cheeks after a visit.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents Neil and Amelia in 2008; her husband; and a brother, Paul Bruck in 1976.

Being born on the Fourth of July was so appropriate for Susan as she was always a firecracker.  She was a devout Catholic attending Mass daily when she was able; and praying a daily rosary.  She served as a Eucharistic minister and Lector in her parishes.  She was also active in the Pro-Life Movement since 1972.  Susan was an avid reader and enjoyed dancing, especially to 50’s music, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.  She was V.P. of Social Connections of Singles in Dubuque where she made lifelong friendships.  She also loved dogs and Peek-A-Boo served as her closest friend for many years.

Her family would like to thank MercyOne Hospital and especially Ennoble Care Center, her home for the last 7 years, for their wonderful care.

The family requests you wear purple, her favorite color to services.

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

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