Obituaries Archive

Joseph L. Lewis

Joseph L. “Joe” (Buddy) Lewis, 96, of Dickeyville, WI, passed away at 5:50 p.m. on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at home with his family by his side.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 10, 2023, at Mueller Memorial Chapel at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA, with Pastor Stephanie Ells officiating. Military honors will be accorded by members of Riemenapp-Averkamp-Stelpflug VFW Post # 6455 of Dickeyville & Kieler, and the Iowa Army National Guard. Burial in Linwood Cemetery.

Visitation is from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL.

Joe was born on October 11, 1926 in Winnsboro, LA, the son of Lester A. and Clara (Huff) Lewis.  He was united in marriage to Marian E. Brose on June 15, 1957 at Galena, IL.  She preceded him in death on April 12, 1996.

Joe attended Winnsboro Schools. He was formerly employed at the Dubuque Packing Company for 40 years and was a former member of UAW Local # 150A. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving during W. W. # 2 for four years. Joe was a member of VFW Post # 6455 of Dickeyville & Kieler.

He loved the outdoors, gardening and could make anything grow, especially the Roses he planted for his wife Marian. Joe was all about family and worked very hard and many long hours to provide for them. By joining the Army, he made sure he helped take care of our country.

Surviving are two children, Rick L. Lewis and Jae Lewis and wife Jesi K Lewis all of Dickeyville; and his special granddaughter and best friend Savannah Jo Lewis.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Marian, and siblings, April, June Roy, Helen, Betty and Dorothy “Tommy”.

Joe’s family wishes to thank Grant County Hospice for their loving care provided for their Dad.

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

Thomas F. Scholl

Thomas F. (aka Grinner) Scholl, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa died peacefully at Stonehill Care Center on February 4, 2023.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Friday, February 10, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm Thursday, February 9, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 3:00 pm. A live stream of the wake service will be on the funeral home Facebook page. Flannel and jeans are appropriate dress for the visitation.

Tom was born April 25, 1946, the youngest child of Joseph and Eleanor (O’Regan) Scholl. He was a graduate of Sacred Heart Elementary and Wahlert High School.

Tom was first employed at Hilldale Dairy and later drove over-the-road for Flexsteel Industries, retiring after 25 years. Tom served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War (1965-1967). He and Barbara Isenhart were married at Nativity Church on August 17, 1968.

Tom is survived by his wife of 54 years, Barb; five children of whom he was very proud: Tina (Sharon) Rosenberg-Scholl, St. Paul, MN, David (Shannon) Scholl, Carrollton, GA, Julia (Shane) Holdridge, Dubuque, IA, Katie (Tom) Cronk, North Liberty, IA, and Dan (Claire) Scholl, Des Moines, IA; 10 beloved grandchildren: Ian, Ben and Sarah, Rachel and Leah, Emily, Tony and Ella, Mia and Lillian; his sister, Maggie (Vince) Kotz; sisters-in-law, Lou Ann Scholl and Susan (John) Hoffman; brothers-in-law, Bob (Sue) Isenhart, Mike Isenhart, Chuck Isenhart and Thomas (Joanne) Isenhart; former daughter-in-law, Beth Scholl, former sister-in-law, Marlene Speers and many nieces and nephews.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Eleanor and Joseph; his brother, Jim Scholl; sisters, Mary Jane (Cliff) Davis and Betty (Ted) Stacks; father and mother-in-law, Rhodes “Bud” and Marcella Isenhart, and brother-in-law, Andy Isenhart.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be given to Stonehill Care Center or Hospice of Dubuque.

The Scholl family would like to thank Dr. Cao, Dr. Powers and Dr. Khan and the numerous medical providers who cared for Tom over these many years. We are especially appreciative of the staff of Stonehill Care Center who, with patience and kindness, created a second home for him and of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeremiah, who provided comfort for Tom and support to his loved ones.

Maynard L. McVay

Maynard L. McVay, 89, of Dubuque, died Monday, February 6, 2023, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, February 17, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Maynard will be 10:00 am Saturday, February 18, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Maynard was born December 24, 1933, in Montfort, WI, the son of Everett  and Helen Winkers McVay. On July 14, 1956, he married Shirley Sutter in St. Raphael Cathedral, Dubuque. She preceded him in death on May 15, 2015. Maynard served in the United States Army as a Medic.  He worked for the Dubuque Packing Company and later at Medical Associates. Maynard was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. He was an avid Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Braves fan.  He also enjoyed bee keeping and country music.

Survivors include four children, Barbara Ann McVay of Dubuque, Laura (Terry) Esch of Moline, IL, John McVay of Dubuque, and Jennifer (Terry Reardon) Heinze of Florida City, FL; four grandchildren, Sarah (John) Majzner, Alex (Sierra) Esch, Natasha Heinze, and Cole Heinze; six siblings, Eugenia Kramer, Berlyn McVay, Royce (Barbara) McVay, Gloria Corcoran, Dean McVay, and Evelyn (Ken) Wunderlin.

Besides his wife, Maynard was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Colleen, and brother, Marvin.

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 Maynard’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Joan M. Baughman

Joan M. Baughman, 90 of Appleton, WI previously from Hazel Green, WI and Kerrville, TX passed away Saturday, February 4, 2023 after a long illness.

A private service is planned with immediate family at a later date with burial in Mt. Calvary in Dubuque.

Joan was born September 7, 1933 in Dodgeville, WI, the daughter of Josephine and Edward Rohowetz.

At the age of four, Joan attended a one room schoolhouse for her primary education and later graduated from Dodgeville High School. After graduation, Joan and her older sister moved to Dubuque to attend and graduate from the Mercy School of Nursing with a RN degree. After graduation, Joan then moved to Milwaukee, WI and attended Marquette University to pursue a MSN.

Joan met Donald R Baughman while in Dubuque and they were married in Dodgeville, WI August 8, 1953. Joan then followed Donald to Long Beach, CA and Iowa City, IA while Donald finished his medical training. They then moved to Dubuque, IA where Donald practiced medicine and Joan raised six children.

Joan spent nine years consistently giving her time, skill and care to the many volunteer organizations in Dubuque including; Hospice, Stonehill Care Center, Legion of Mary, her parish council and Girl Scouts of America. She often put her nursing skills to use, responding to the immediate needs of a patient and family in crisis. No job seemed too big or small. Joan was honored at the 12th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Award in 1992 by then Governor Terry Branstad.

When not devoting her time to others, her special interests included tennis, bicycling, reading, cross country skiing, attending to her perennial garden and bird watching.

After Donald retired, Joan and Donald moved to Kerrville, TX for 15 wonderful years. Together they volunteered for the Medical Free Clinic, St. Vincent de Paul and enjoyed working alongside each other in their garden.

Donald and Joan moved to Appleton, WI to be closer to family. Donald passed away February 25, 2020.

Survivors include her five children; Grant (Patti) Baughman of Appleton, WI, Joan (Bill) Primasing of Dubuque, IA, Jane Baughman of New Richmond, WI, Scott (Cipta) Baughman of Prescott, AZ and Dirk (Julie) Baughman of Lincoln, Nebraska; nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren; brother Paul (Mary) Rohowetz of St Paul, MN. Joan was preceded in death by her oldest son Mark.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Heartwood Senior Living and the caring, love of the Hospice nurses.

Joan’s faith and generous heart were seen in many ways. Calling her our Mom and loving her has been such a privilege that her family will cherish forever.

Paul B. Morehead

Paul B. Morehead, 94, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2023, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, February 10, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with military honors. There is no public visitation.  A private inurnment will be held at a later date at the Rock Island, Illinois National Cemetery.

Paul Bollinger Morehead was born on April 29, 1928 at the farm home south of Maquoketa.  He was the sixth child born to Ray and Beulah (Bollinger) Morehead.  He was educated in country school and was a graduate of Maquoketa High School in 1946 where he was a state qualifier in wrestling for two years.  He had served his country in the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge.

On June 29, 1947, he married Shirley Marie Schumacher in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Pam and Jeff.

Upon returning home following his military service, Paul farmed with his father until 1958.  He then started his own carpentry business until retiring in 1988.  He also drove school bus for ten years.

He had been a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa and the Joinerville Boat Club.  Paul and Shirley spent many winter months in the Rio Grande Valley at Donna, Texas.

Those left to honor his memory include children, Pam Wagner of Maquoketa, IA, and Jeff Morehead of Crest Hill, IL; a sister, Shirley Huffman of Maquoketa, IA; 5 grandchildren, Jake, Joni, Jehri, Josh and Kyle; and 11 great-grandchildren, Jaden, Miles, Jack, Charlie, Jolee, Jayle, Marlee, Mabel, Lincoln, Grant, and Megan.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley on December 4, 2015, brothers Carroll, Gordon “Bud”, Claire, Stuart and Kenneth, and sisters Donna Ripple and Maxine Reistroffer.

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

Agnes H. Klas

Agnes H. Klas, 89, of New Vienna, passed away peacefully Monday, February 6, 2023, at The Good Neighbor Home in Manchester.

A visitation will be held from 3 – 6 pm Wednesday, February 8, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 am Thursday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 9, 2023, at St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, with the Rev. Gabriel Mensah officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Agnes was born on October 9, 1933, in New Vienna, the youngest child of Joseph and Celia (Oberbroeckling) Klas.

She was raised on the family farm near New Vienna and remained there with her brother Ray until purchasing a house in New Vienna.  She attended St. Boniface High School, graduating in 1951.  She worked for many years at the New Vienna Savings Bank, making many friends.  In her younger years Agnes enjoyed traveling, taking numerous bus trips around the United States with her friend Betty Clemen.  A highlight was going to New Orleans to see Pope John Paul II in 1987.  She was a member and volunteer at the New Vienna Area Historical Society.  Agnes had a strong faith that carried her through life, especially her last years.  She was the last living member of a generation of 80 Oberbroeckling first cousins.

She is survived by six nieces and nephews, Janet (Mike) Morrow of Mesa, AZ; Lois (Chuck) Votsmier of Waukon; Cheryl (Don) Kass of Farley; Daryl (Kim) Klas of St. Louis, MO; Judy (Randy) Winter of Marion; and David (Michelle) Klas of New Vienna.  She is also survived by 13 great-nieces and nephews and 14 great-great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Clara Klas and Alma (Al) Rolfes; two brothers, Ray and George (Bertha) Klas.

We would like to thank the compassionate staff at The Good Neighbor Home for the care they provided to Agnes over the last decade and Megan from Above and Beyond Hospice Care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Boniface Church in New Vienna.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com or send cards to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home 750 – 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, Iowa 52040.

Ronald C. Loeffelholz

Ronald C. Loeffelholz, 83, of Dubuque passed away Saturday February 4, 2023.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 8, 2023, and after 11:00 a.m. Thursday February 9, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at noon Thursday with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Ron was born on September 8, 1939, in Cuba City, Wisconsin the son of Charles and Viola (Curtis) Loeffelholz. He married Carol Boettcher at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Ron worked for Dubuque John Deere for many years until his retirement in 1992. He was a member of the UAW Local #94. Ron and Carol had a great passion for horses. They were members of the MVRA Saddle Club for over 50 years and were certified Quarter Horse breeders by the AQHA. For over 40 years they sold many horses throughout the US and in foreign countries.

He also enjoyed spending time with his family and just being outside on the farm and riding his gator. Later in life beside his passion for horse’s he became an avid golfer. He even helped work with many young golfers at Cole Acres.

He is survived by his children Brian (Jeanne) Loeffelholz and Jody (Marty) Kearney, his grandchildren Amanda (Branden) Blakemore, Katie (fiancé’ Cruz) Loeffelholz and Cole Kearney, a great granddaughter Paisley, all of Dubuque, a sister Ruth Ann Patterson of Cuba City, WI, and a niece Michelle Patterson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Carol on November 29, 2022.

The family would like to thank Lisa and Lori from By Your Side Care, the nurses and staff at Manor Care and Hospice of Dubuque for all the care they gave to Ron.

William J. Meyer

William “Bill” John Meyer, 95, of Dubuque, died Saturday, February 4, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, February 9, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for William will be 10:30 am Friday, February 10, 2023, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

William was born April 5, 1927, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Leo “Chief” Peter and Florence Messing Meyer. On July 8, 1950, he married Shirley Jane Sinhold in Dubuque, Iowa.

He graduated form St. Columbkille’s High School in 1945 and attended college at Loras College in Dubuque. He was a graduate of Dale Carneige School of Managements.

Bill served in the United States Navy from 1944 until 1946 where he was stationed in Manilla during WWII.  Bill was a lifetime member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus #510, and Kiwanis Club. He was a member of the American Legion for 75 years where he served as the commander in 1995. He was one of the original members of the Lacoma Golf Course, refereed basketball for 35 years, was a member of the Dubuque Pack (DuPaco) Supervisors Group, and Holy Name Society of St. Patricks. Bill is also in the Kiwanis Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame and the Dubuque Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame.  He was an avid Iowa Hawkeye, Chicago Cubs, and Bears fan.  He also enjoyed golfing with all of his friends over the years.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley of Dubuque; two children, Michael (Tammy) Meyer of Madeira Beach, FL and Amy (Todd) Merry of Norcross, GA; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; sisters, Jeanette Schwartz of Dubuque and Betty (Tony) Callahan of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Gary W. Meyer, grandson, Adam Meyer, brothers, Jim (Ginny) Meyer and Leroy (Rosie) Meyer, sister, Pearl (Howard) Buckley, and brother-in-law, Frank Schwartz.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church or the American Legion Post #6.

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

Margaret A. Kircher

Margaret A. “Peg” Kircher, 80, of Dubuque, died Saturday, February 04, 2023 at Assisi Village.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 6:30 pm.  Mass of Christian burial will be 10:30 am Friday at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the Funeral Mass may be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Peg was born July 23, 1942 in Dubuque, daughter of Clarence and Elizabeth (Graham) Vogel.

She graduated from the Visitation Academy

On September 2, 1967, she married James Kircher at Nativity Catholic Church.  He preceded her in death on July 9, 2017.

Peg was a person of service.  She quietly spent her life helping to make people’s lives better.

She was a member of St. Colubmkille’s Parish.

She is survived by Mike (Beth) Kircher, of Dubuque and their children, Katherine, Bridget, Maria and Theresa; Annemarie (Dennis) Day of Dubuque, and their children, Maggie, Jake, and Adeline Olson and Maddy and Ethan Day; Kathy Arlen, of Grand Rapids, MI, and her children Connor, Nicholas, Elizabeth and Natalie.

She is also survived by three siblings, Jim (Suzette) Vogel, Bob Vogel, and Maribeth Vogel; and several nieces and nephews.

To leave and online condolence for the family, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Memorials may be made to the Margaret Kircher Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Assisi Village for their care.

William C. Brosnahan

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William C. “Bill” Brosnahan, 76, passed away Friday, February 3, 2023 surrounded by his family.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Church of the Nativity where military rites will be accorded immediately following.

Bill was born April 6, 1946, in Champaign, Illinois, son of Edwin and Cecelia (Sandwell) Brosnahan.

Bill graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964.  Bill attended Loras College and then joined the United States Army.   Bill was united in marriage on August 8th 1970 to Christine Zwack.

Bill had a long career in Public service starting with the Dubuque Police Department where he served as a Patrol Officer, and then transferring over to the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation as a Special Agent and later retiring as a Special Agent in Charge. Bill served four years with the United States Army, and later joined the National Guard retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

During his retirement Bill spent some time as a private investigator, working corporate compliance with local companies and lastly following his passion for fishing he served as the tournament director for the Walleye Anglers Trail.

Surviving are Bill’s wife of 52 years Chris Brosnahan and 3 Sons  Steve (Beth) of Ankeny,  Mike (Melesia) of Dubuque, and Tom of Dubuque. Bill left behind 4 grandchildren Alex (Chelsea), Lauren (Charlie), Anna, Maddie and 1 Great Grandchild Landon.  He is also survived by a sister Mary (Tim) McDonald, sister-in-law`s Pam Beaver, and Sandy (Larry) Smith, along with several nieces and Nephews.

Bill’s passion was boating and fishing on the Mississippi River. He loved taking family and friends on his river tours.

Bill was Preceded in death by Parents Edwin and Cecelia Brosnahan, a brother Stephen in infancy.  Others include brother-in-law John Beaver and Tom (Pat) Zwack.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the William Brosnahan Memorial Fund.

Special Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for the kindness and compassion they provided.

Ronald J. Hoffman

Ronald (Ron) Joseph Hoffman, 74, passed away very peacefully on Saturday, February 4, 2023 after bravely battling prostate cancer for nearly 10 years. In his words, he has “no regrets…. “; on his battle over the years, he would often say, “it is what it is” and sometimes you just have to “grin and bear it”. He always had a smile and a cookie for everyone he met – he never met a stranger and took pride in making sure everyone who stopped by to visit was well-hydrated and well-fed. He will be missed beyond measure by his family and his many friends.

Visitation will be from 3:30 pm until 8:00 pm Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.   A prayer service will be held at 7:45 PM.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ron will be 10:30 AM on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, at the Church of the Resurrection with Fr. Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Ron was born on November 1, 1948 in Dubuque, Iowa to Harold and Ruth (Budde) Hoffman. He was the oldest of six children. He attended Sacred Heart, Wahlert High School and he graduated from Senior High School in Dubuque in 1966. He married Elizabeth (Beth) Bennett on July 11, 1970.

He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1968-1970; he was stationed in Illescheim, Germany. He was beyond proud and honored to be able to take the Honor Flight to Washington D.C. on May 23, 2022 – he said that was one of the best trips of his life!

Ron worked at the Dubuque Packing Company (FDL & Farmland) for 27 years; he then worked at Orkin Pest Control as a service manager, for an additional 15 years. His work ethic was second to no one. He retired in 2011. Ron and Beth were able to spend several winters in Arizona after retirement – they enjoyed the weather, golfing and all of the friends they made there! Ron loved to be outdoors – hunting and golfing were two of his favorite activities over the years. He was always busy doing something in his garage or in his yard. He thoroughly enjoyed watching his grandchildren /great-grandchildren grow up and watching their many activities over the years was a blessing to him.

Ron is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Elizabeth (Beth) Hoffman; daughter and son-in-law, Tischa (Hoffman) & Terry (George) Busch of Platteville, WI; 7 grandchildren: Emilie (Jake Faherty) Busch, Nathan (Mya Ploessl) Busch, Natalie Busch all of Platteville, WI, Mallory Potter of Missouri, Austin Hoffman of Clinton, IA, Shelby Hoffman and Ben (Belle) Hoffman of Dubuque; 2 great-grandchildren (with another due in February), Bentley and Jameson Potter of Missouri; and his most special grand-puppy, Mollie Mae Busch.

He is further survived by three of his five siblings: Sharon (Richard) Feller, Patti (Bill) Dix and Marty (Karen) Hoffman; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Maggie Hoffman and Jeda Hoffman, Jack & Helene Bennett, Gerald Bennett and Jimmy Jones; godchildren, Julie Stran and Trevor Hoffman; as well as many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends….. too numerous to count.

Those who left this world before Ron, who will be greeting him with open arms, include his parents, Harold & Ruth; his only son, Ronald J. Hoffman II;  younger brothers, Dave Hoffman and Tim Hoffman; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Angeline & Cecil Jones; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Richard & Franne Leppert, Sharon Jones, Barbara Weber, Billy Armato; and very special friends, Ray Loney and Roger Kauffmann.

Our family gives so many thanks to all of the family and friends who have been by our side throughout this journey… it means so, so much to dad that you are all so loving to him & his family. He said he has the best neighbors anyone could ask for – you all know who you are!

So much gratitude goes out to Dr. Hermann, Tony Heiar, ARNP, and Hospice of Dubuque (you are all TRULY angels on this earth) and a special shout out to Ali & Katie at Unity Point Hospital in Dubuque- “code brown” will forever make us all smile and you brought such joy to a man who was going through way more pain than any of us know.

To honor Ron, our hope is that if you CAN bake for your friends & family, please do; if you can’t… learn, or do acts of kindness on a regular basis for your loved ones so they always know how special they are to you…. what a wonderful tribute to a one of a kind man.

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 Ron’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Thomas A. Welu

Thomas A. “Tom” Welu, age 85, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on February 1, 2023, at Luther Manor.  To honor Tom’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on September 18, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Anton and Catherine (Broll) Welu.  Tom was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School before going off to honorably serve his country in the Korean War as a Corporal in the U.S. Army.  Upon returning home, Tom started Tom Welu Contractors and spent over 45 years in the construction business.  Tom was a skilled carpenter and many of his projects can still be seen today all around the area.  Tom met and married the love of his life, Joan Kastle, and the two were blessed with many wonderful years together before she was sadly called home ahead of him on October 13, 2006.  Tom’s free-time mainly revolved around cars, collecting, restoring, and sharing his craft with others to enjoy.  He was a mainstay at the Kat Cruise for many years and his 1949 Mercury, Blue Velvet, was surely his pride and joy.  We will miss Tom more than he could know, but are beyond grateful for the abundance of memories he leaves behind at the same time.  Thank you, Tom, for all that you’ve given to the world around you and may peace be yours until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his two children,
Tim Welu, Dubuque, IA,
and Toni (Dan) Graebel, Dubuque, IA;

his three grandchildren;

his siblings,
David (Carol) Welu, Dubuque, IA,
Richard (Dixie) Welu, East Dubuque, IL,
and Joan (Doug) Mugehe, Cleveland, OH;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joan E. Welu; his daughter, Gabrielle Welu; and his sister, Janet Welu.

Tom’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Tom, and his family.

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

Maria Elena Guerrero

Maria Elena Guerrero (Beltran), age 82, of Dubuque, IA, died peacefully on Thursday, February 2, 2023, at Oak Park Place, with her loving family members by her side.  To honor Maria’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m., on Friday, February 10, 2023, at the Grand River Center, 500 Bell Street, in Dubuque, in the Third Floor, River Room.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held the following morning, Saturday, February 11, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street, in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Maria’s family.

Maria Elena Guerrero was more than just a loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend.  She was a teacher, caregiver to children and lover of life.

She was born in Sahuayo, Michoacan, Mexico and immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of 14 and eventually moved to Chicago.  She graduated St. Mary’s High School in Chicago and soon after began her journey to become a Maryknoll Sister of St. Dominic, she served as a nun for five years in New York before leaving the order for family reasons.

Maria Elena had one child, Robert Beltran in 1969 before embarking on a life long pledge of service to children and the comminuty. She worked for the State of Illinois, but found her second calling as an educator both at the high school and college level.  Her thirst for knowledge is best explemplified by her commitment to complete her Masters in Eductaion at Loyola University Chicago at the age of 60.
While she only had one biological child, she was a foster mother to more than 150 children and teens in the Chicago area for 17 years.  She was also a member of the Chicago and Dubuque, Iowa Lions Club and was president twice.

She moved to Dubuque, Iowa in 2013, and resided at Bethany Home where she remained active and social and continued to pray her rosary every day with her new family and friends. In April of 2022, Mary Ellen had to move to Oak Park Place in Dubuque, an assisted living community.

Maria Elena is survived by her son, Robert and was Abuelita to Trinity and Bennett Beltran. She was sister to Alice, Josephine, Stella, Cesar, Carolyn, Lisa and Martha.

Online condolences for Maria’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Howard W. Klauer

Howard Wayne Klauer of Bellevue embarked on his next new adventure and life everlasting, to Infinite Love and beyond on Wednesday, February 1, 2023. Private Service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery chapel in Dubuque.

Howard was born on May 18, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, son of Howard R. and Carrie A. (Musselman) Klauer.  He retired to Iowa after working for 25 years with the Village of Schaumburg in Illinois as an engineering technician.  Howard married the cherished love of his life, Nancy A. (Syrotchen) Nolley on May 24, 2003, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Galena, IL by the Reverend Dr. Frederick W. Baltz.  Together they enjoyed the retirement years 24/7 at their St. Catherine home.

In his earlier life and during retirement, Howard had a lifelong interest in photography, reading, and astronomy, building four telescopes: one while living in Dubuque and three more during his working years in the Chicago area. While attending Dubuque Senior High School he co-founded the Dubuque Astronomical Society and also the Dubuque Rocket Society.  He was a former member of’ the Northwest Suburban Astronomers of Hoffman Estates, IL, and Cernan Earth and Space Center, Triton College, River Grove, IL.

Howard is survived by his devoted and beloved wife, Nancy; brother, John (Jeanne) Klauer of Dubuque; sister, Alana (Robert) Goetzinger of Petaluma, CA; brother-in-law, Alan Syrotchen of Portage, Michigan; son, Mark (Delaina); grandchildren, Neysa and Carter of Anamosa, Iowa.

Per Howard’s wishes, in lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the MercyOne Health Foundation of Dubuque or St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Galena, Illinois.

Carol A. Walsh

Carol A. Walsh, 83 of Fillmore, Iowa, passed away from multiple myeloma at home in Coralville, Iowa with her family by her side on Tuesday, January 31, 2023.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 6th, 2023 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 7th, 2023 at Sacred Heart Fillmore with Fr. Mark Osterhaus officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Carol was born September 30, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa, only child of Louis F. and Stella R. (Nachtman) Welter. She attended the Academy of the Visitation and was a member of the class of 1957. Carol went on to earn her RN nursing degree from St. Anne’s School of Nursing in Chicago, Illinois, graduating August 1960. Her nursing journey first began at Xavier hospital, next at the Dubuque Packing Company, then as a nurse for Head Start in Peosta and then as the Apheresis Director for the Dubuque Red Cross Blood Center until her retirement.

Carol married Patrick J. Walsh of Fillmore at St. Joseph’s the Worker Church, Dubuque Iowa on October 8, 1960. Patrick and Carol returned to Fillmore to his family farm and farmed together for many years. After retiring from the farm, the two traveled together, spending fun times with friends and family, and wintering in Mesa, Arizona.

Carol was one of the early members of the St. Monica’s Mother’s Club, she was a local 4-H leader, Board Member of the Presentation Lantern Center (retired), Board Member of Opening Doors (retired), Parish Nurse for Sacred Heart Fillmore (retired), Dubuque hospice supporter, these were just a few of her many volunteer interests. She enjoyed creating beautiful woven baskets and handmade greeting cards. Carol was a champion supporter for her children and grandchildren, taking great joy in supporting each of them as they created their own paths in life.

Carol is survived by Patrick, her husband of 62 years and their four children: Susan of Iowa City, Steve of Des Moines, Janet of Seattle, Washington, and James of Boston, Massachusetts, grandchildren: Jonathon (Suzanne Pichoff) McFall of Des Moines and Marcus McFall (Michael McDonough, partner) of Seattle, Washington and one great-grandchild on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents Louis and Stella, father-in-law John Louis Walsh, mother-in-law Ann E. (Knepper) Walsh, daughter-in-law Renée Upah-Walsh, sisters-in-law Genevieve (Walsh) Nemmers and Jean (Walsh) Bartels.

Carol was someone, who if you became her friend you were a friend forever. She left many, many of you with infinite instances of fun and laughter creating lasting memories. Carol’s personal motto “I want to live, not merely survive” and she lived this every day since her diagnosis of multiple myeloma.

Carol and her family wanted to give thanks to the people who cared for her with compassion and kindness during her treatments. The UIHC Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center team, and all the other dedicated UIHC health care members who cared for her along the way, her Mercy Hospital Wound Care team, and Iowa City Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Iowa City Hospice and The Presentation Lantern Center.