Obituaries Archive

Barbara A. Mahe

Barbara Ann Mahe, 78, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at her home.

A Celebration of Life will be from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Barbara was born December 8, 1944, in Des Moines, IA, the daughter of Earl and Virginia Mildred Wright. On June 12, 1965, she married Louis Charles “Chuck” Mahe in Granada Hills, CA.

She was a homemaker. When her children were older, she worked as a secretary for Shell Oil Company while they lived in Houston.

Barbara had a passion for interior design and enjoyed shopping for her home. She loved anything floral and English rose garden themed. Christmas was her favorite time of year and that included watching Hallmark movies. Barbara loved her children and grandchildren beyond measure, and she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Chuck; one son, John Mahe of Portland, OR; one daughter, Julie (Rob) Overcash of Bend, OR; three grandchildren, Chase Overcash, Ian Overcash, and Sophia Overcash; one brother, Richard (Denise) Wright of Los Angeles, CA; one sister, Patty (Bob) Matus of Los Angeles, CA; and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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 Barbara’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

James R. Wright

James R. “Dick” Wright of Galena, Il, passed away, Tuesday, January 3, 2023.  In keeping with his wishes, there will be no public visitation or service.  A private family service will be held at a later date.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, is assisting the family.  He will be laid to rest at the Ft. Sheridan National Cemetery, Lake Forest, IL.

Dick was born December 30, 1937, in Kansas City, MO the only son of Robert and Grace (Mayfield) Wright.  He graduated from Kemper Military Academy, MO in 1957, and furthered his education at the University of Kansas.  He served in the United States Army from October 1959 through September of 1970.  Dick was awarded a Direct Commission in January 1962, while serving in Ethiopia.  He resigned from the military with the rank of Major in 1970.  He served his country honorably in Vietnam where he earned several medals.  After Vietnam, Dick worked at CNA Insurance Company, Chicago, IL, for 30 years, retiring as Vice President, Compliance Reporting. Dick was united in marriage to Esther Sutton on December 21, 1962, in Washington, D.C.

They were blessed with one daughter, Kimberly (Wright) Winkin, her husband, David Winkin, and one grandson, Conor Winkin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his most beloved aunt and uncle, James and Louise Crute, and five brothers-in-laws and one sister-in-law.

Dick made friends wherever he went.  His kindness is appreciated by so many, and he will be sorely missed by all.  He was quietly gifted in so many ways.  He loved accomplishing tasks he had never done before, such as building furniture pieces, creating his outdoor gardens, or taking care of nearly all mechanical problems in his home.  He especially reveled in helping his beloved daughter, Kimberly, and her husband, David, with any necessary home projects that came up for them.  He made certain to include his daughter and grandson in any project on which he was working.  That was a fun time for all to learn and enjoy time together.  His family meant everything to him.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be given to the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, Chicago, IL; Dubuque Humane Society, or to any animal rescue of choice.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Patricia E. Schaible

Patricia Elaine Schaible, age 82, of Elizabeth, IL, passed away January 1, 2023 at her home from cancer. A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 21, 2023 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church in Elizabeth.  Visitation will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. before the service.  Interment will occur on a later date.  Family and friends are invited to share in Patsy’s life at lawjonesfuneralhome.com.

Patsy was born July 26, 1940 at Freeport Memorial Hospital, the daughter of Russell and Marjorie (Kleckner) Roberts.  She grew up in rural Elizabeth, attending a one room schoolhouse throughout grade school, before attending and graduating from Elizabeth High School with the class of 1958.  She married Delos Groezinger and together they had five children.  Patsy went to work for Jo Carroll Electric, then after her fourth child, she transitioned to a primary role of homemaker, while still working diligently on the bookkeeping for the family boat business.  Later in life, she married Rodney Schaible.  After Rodney’s passing, Patsy reconnected with her first husband, and they were together for their remaining years.

Never one to shy away from work and responsibility, Pat held numerous jobs and operated many businesses throughout her life.  She was a substitute rural mail carrier for a number of years, spent more than three decades as an EMT with the Elizabeth ambulance service, and served as a board member for the Elizabeth State Bank.  She opened her first antique shop in the late 70’s, in Elizabeth (a shop that would remain open until her passing). Over the years, she operated boutiques in Oregon, Dixon, and  Elizabeth, IL.  Pat was proud that through her endeavors, she provided all of her children the opportunity to go to college.

Pat was a super mom.  Always putting children and grandchildren first.  She was a lover of flowers, reading, antiques, fashion, and the great outdoors; especially the Mississippi River, where her family had a cabin.  She baked the best pies known to mankind (apple, rhubarb, and raspberry), and the tastiest catfish filets, freshly caught on the river.

Patsy is survived by two daughters, Sue (Dennis) Roberts, of Savanna, IL and Melody Groezinger, of Omaha, NE; son, Scott (Nicole) Groezinger, of DeKalb, IL; 11 grandchildren, Nick, Sam, Calvin, Clayton, Jordan, Joe, Randi, Holly, Vince, Emily, and Carson; 10 great grandchildren; two brothers, Norman (Doreen) and Fred (Diane); sister, Nancy (Maureen); and sister-in-law, Linda Roberts.

Patsy is preceded in death by her parents, Russell and Marjorie; daughter and son-in-law, Annette and Richard Theyerl; son, David Groezinger; sister and brother-in law Shirley and Robert Wetherill ; brother, Richard; and former husbands, Delos Groezinger and Rodney Schaible.

Mary J. Dotsch Frueh

Mary Jane Dotsch Frueh, 78, of Dubuque, died Monday, January 2, 2023, at her home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm Thursday, January 5, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by a prayer service at 6:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 6, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Mary was born February 5, 1944, in Lansing, MI, the daughter of James and Lorna (Boudreau) Dotsch. On December 30, 1967, she married Leo Henry Frueh in Garden, MI.

She was a 1962 graduate of Holy Name High School in Escanaba, MI. In 1966, she graduated from the College of St. Scholastica with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

She worked intermittently as a nurse until 1983 followed by school nursing at Keystone Area Education Agency and then as a health care coordinator for children with special health care needs for Child Health Specialty Clinics of the University of Iowa. Most recently, Mary worked part-time registering patients arriving at Finley Hospital.

Mary was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church where she was involved in the choir and Haiti Committee. She had a special interest in spiritual activities and service, especially with small Christian community formation. She served in Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) in 1967 in West Virginia, where she met her husband Leo. She helped form Aquin Elementary PTA in Cascade and Birthright of Dubuque. She loved being with her grandchildren and family.

Survivors include her husband, Leo; three sons, Matt (Faby) Frueh of Newbury Port, MA, Ben (Celine) Frueh of Portland, ME, and Pete Frueh (Janette Leslie) of Richfield, MN; one daughter, Sara Frueh of Washington, DC; six grandchildren, Emmett, Declan, Jamie, Maria, Matias, and Lili; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Alan Dotsch and Roland Dotsch.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for St. Anthony’s Haiti Committee and Birthright of Dubuque.

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

Thomas Jansz

Our beloved Thomas “Tom” Jansz passed away peacefully on December 31, 2022, at home in the loving arms of his wife, Barb.  There will be a celebration of life at a later date in Galena, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

Tom was born and grew up in Aurora, IL, with his two siblings, Denise ‘Ding” and Nicholas “Nick”, his parents, Al and Eileen Jansz, and his grandmother, Kathryn Kavanagh. Tom graduated from Aurora College in Aurora, Illinois. His professional career included working at multiple large U.S. companies. Tom met the love of his life, Barbara Raymond, in the summer of 1969. They married in April 1970 and have been married for 52 years.  They settled in Barb’s hometown, Naperville, and in 2002 retired to beautiful Galena, Illinois. Tom loved “his piece of heaven” in Galena and spent many hours working on his golf and tennis games while building an amazing group of friends in his community. Tom was an active Safe Haven Humane Society member, feeling indebted after adopting the amazing lab, Zeus. He led the organization for 6 years as President, during a critical time as it transitioned into its permanent home in Elizabeth, IL.  He will be remembered as an extraordinary and devoted husband, brother, uncle, brother-in-law, cousin, and friend. 

He leaves behind his wife of 52 years, Barb, sister, Denise Ertsman, brothers-in-law, James and Robert Raymond, Mike Marusha, nieces and nephews, Nancy Creel, Sue Bentlage, Mary Pat Marusha Martin, James Raymond Jr., Lee Ertsman, Denny Ertsman, Kevin Ertsman, Katie Vannucci, Molly Vannucci, Irish Cousins Derek Kavanagh, Ed Kavanagh and his extended large Irish clan, the Kavanagh and Kane families in Dublin, Ireland where his mother Eileen was born. In addition, he leaves behind many other family and friends too numerous to list. 

He was preceded in death by his brother, Nicholas Jansz, brothers-in-law, Carl Ertsman, and Joseph Vannucci, and sisters-in-law, Marilynn Vannucci and Dolores Marusha. 

Tom is the best example of a life well-lived. He will forever be known as a wonderful husband and a loyal and devoted friend and family member.  He could always be relied on for great advice, a good laugh, and a love of desserts – all of which could be found in abundance with Tom. 

In remembrance of Tom, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Safe Haven Humane Society, Elizabeth, IL. https://safehavenforpets.org/membership-donations ‘Tom will remain forever in our hearts.’

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Eldon D. Schmitt

Eldon Duaine Schmitt ended his 92 year journey with us on Jan. 2, 2023 at Accura Healthcare with 3 generations of family by his side.

To celebrate this long life a visitation will be held Friday, Jan. 6, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., Dubuque, IA.  A Mass of Christian burial will be Saturday, Jan. 7, at 10:30 at Holy Family, New Mellery with Msgr. Toale officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Eldon was born in Richardsville, October 13, 1930, to Frank and Mary (Weideman) Schmitt. He received his 7th grade education at country schools in Epworth and Graf. 73 years ago on November 16, 1949, he married Patricia Joan McCarthy at St. Raphael’s Cathedral.

He worked for the Dubuque Packing Company for 32 years and was very proud of the fact that in all that time he was only late twice.

He farmed, starting out in Graf and the last 55 years in Peosta. He was known for selling stock hogs and Hereford bulls. Daddy was a very mild-mannered guy, never showing much emotion, except when chasing pigs, where the volume went up and the vocabulary turned much more colorful. If they pushed him too far, he also had a butcher shop.

He loved a good card game. Mom always said that he cut his teeth on a deck of cards. Euchre, poker, Blackjack at the casino, he loved it all, even the rummy games we had up until a week ago.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joan. Daughters Patti (Gary) Steffen, Cascade, Vicki (Phil) Steffen, Zwingle, Wanda (Dan) Loewen, Baldwin. Grandchildren, Jen (Brian) Hazer, Nicole (Brian) Turnis, Bernard, Amanda (Jim) Trumm, Cascade, Brooke (Jake) LaChance, Deerfield, WI, Bridgette Steffen, Cedar Rapids, Shane (Tiffany) Steffen, Bellevue, Jesse (Traci) Loewen, Cascade, Lee (Ben) Symonds, Ely, Tanner (Cortney) Loewen, Cascade, Cale (Micaela) Loewen, Cedar Rapids. 29 Great-grandchildren. Siblings, Arnita Erickson, Verlyn Schmitt, In-laws, Virgil Hammerand, Mary Smith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Father and Mother-in-law, William and Anna McCarthy, Siblings, Marie (Kelly) Even, Evelyn (Elmer) Lucas, Salena (Dale) Watters, Leo Schmitt, Lavern (Lil) Schmitt, Jerome (Josephine) Schmitt, Geneva Arlen, Luella Hammerand, Doris Schmitt. In-Laws, Bob Erickson, Bill (Alice) McCarthy, Bob (Doreen) McCarthy, Orland (Melita) McCarthy, Lorraine (Red) Walsh, Justin (Mary Jane) McCarthy, Ann (Louie) Heacock, Eileen McCarthy, Arvel Smith.

In lieu of flowers or memorial gifts, please take some time to spend with an elderly person to ease their loneliness.

The family would like to thank Dr. Christopher Stille for the time and attention he gave Daddy. Also, Accura Healthcare (Shady Rest) for the compassionate care they give Mom, which eased Daddy’s mind and the wonderful care and friendship they gave him this last month and also showed us when we were there.

Remember we’re only passing through.

Elizabeth A. Bell

Elizabeth A. “Libby” Bell, 63, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday morning, January 2, 2023, at home.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating “Libby’s” life will be held from 3 to 6 P.M., Friday, January 6, 2023.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  Burial will be in the Bollinger County Memorial Cemetery, Marble Hill, Missouri at a later date.

Elizabeth Ann was born on August 7, 1959 in Advance, Missouri.  Her parents were Ivan Butry and Betty Joan Brotherton.  She was a graduate of Woodland R4 High School in Marble Hill, Missouri.  She married Myron O. Bell on April 5, 2009 in Clinton, Iowa, after a very long engagement.

“Libby” had first worked for Paramount Headwear Company in Marble Hill, MO.  She then was self-employed owning “Libby’s” Cleaning Service for ten years.  She later worked for Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and for J & P Cycles in Anamosa.  Then White Home Healthcare in Missouri, and lastly moved back to Iowa where she worked at Maquoketa Care Center until her retirement.

She enjoyed gardening, camping, motorcycle riding, quilting, and sewing, dining out at different places, and raising house plants.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Myron Bell of Maquoketa, IA; children, Anthony Dunivan and Ricky Jo Dunivan, both of Scott City, MO, Ian Ray (Kelly) Long of Marble Hill, MO, Rebecca Ann Long Bell of Scott City, MO, and Anthony Curtis Bell of Maquoketa, IA; 14 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; step-father, Milton Mehas of MO; siblings, Charlotte (Charles) Honeycutt of NC, Karen (Rick) Rodgers of Advance, MO, Greg (Tonya) Butry of Cape Girardeau, MO, Rhonda (Randy) Brown of Marble Hill, MO; and half-siblings, Lisa Myer, Evelyn  Fox, Linda (Glen) Williams, and Rodney (Janet) Beard, all of MO.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her uncle, and one cousin Donald Ray Brotherton.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Elizabeth A. “Libby” Bell memorial fund has been established.

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

Gwendolyn M. Barker

Gwendolyn Marie Barker, 73, of Woodman, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, December 18, 2022, following a short illness.

Gwen was born on July 11, 1949, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the daughter of Robert Bernard and Helen Ruby (Rennecker) Veach and later moved to Moline, IL, where she attended school. Gwen married Charles (Butch) Alan Barker and they had two children, Scott Alan and Rebecca (Becky) Lynn; the family lived in Moline, IL, Dubuque and St. Catherine’s, IA, and Woodman, WI. Butch preceded her in death on February 11, 2009.

Gwen was a homemaker and worked as a nurses’ aide for many years.

Gwen is survived by her children, Scott (Carrie) of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Becky of Woodman; four grandchildren, Ethan, Garrett (Alisa), Maddie, and Brennan Barker of Cedar Rapids; a great-granddaughter, Adalynn Daye; her brothers, Robert (Cathy) Veach of Moline, IL, and Scott (Melanie) Veach of Harrisburg, SD; sisters-in-law, Ruth Powell of Wilmington, CA, and Kathy Holmes of White Bluff, TN, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sisters, Marilyn Sells and Pam Keegan, and nephews, Joshua and Aaron Veach.

A private graveside burial and celebration of life will take place at a later date. According to her wishes, no public visitation will be held.

Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Prairie du Chien, WI, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Lyle M. Ott

Lyle M. Ott, age 82, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 2, 2023, at his home.  To honor Lyle’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday at Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Lyle was born on the family farm on June 30, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Milton L. and Bernita (Freiburger) Ott.

Lyle married Patricia J. McDermott on November 3, 1962, at Holy Ghost Church.  He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company and eventually retired at an early age from FDL Foods.  Throughout his life he enjoyed car racing, hunting, fishing, old car restorations, western movies, and many trips to Wyoming with all of his hunting buddies.  He enjoyed being outside in nature and puttering around in his garden.  Lyle had a knack for fixing anything that was broken.

Those left to cherish Lyle’s memory include

his daughter,
Tammy (Charlie) Hunt, Dubuque, IA;

a grandson,
Lyle (Amy) Hunt, West Des Moines, IA;

a granddaughter,
Lianna Hunt, San Diego, CA;

a great-granddaughter,
Ava Hunt, West Des Moines, IA;

his sister,
Lois Ott-Tarnutzer, Peosta, IA;

his nephews,
Clint Tarnutzer, Dubuque, IA
and Craig (Sherry) Tarnutzer, Denver, CO;

2 brothers-in-law,
John “Jack” McDermott
and Dan (Carol) McDermott, both of Dubuque, IA;

and 2 sisters-in-law,
Susan (Dwayne) Murphy
and Shirley McDermott, both of Dubuque, IA.

Lyle was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Patricia Ott; his grandparents, Lawrence and Carrie (Cartigny) Ott and Nick and Anna (Hess) Freiburger; his mother & father-in-law, John J. & Virginia (Morris) McDermott; 2 brothers-in-law, Donald Tarnutzer and Jim McDermott; and his sisters-in-law, Dorothy (Manuel) Echeagary, Rose (Paul) Rupp, Joann (John) Kegler and Dolores McDermott.

A special thanks to Sue and Dwayne for always looking out for dad.

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

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

William A. Frederick

William A. “Bill” “Tubb” Frederick, 96, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at home. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 3, 2023, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd, Dubuque.  Rev. Phillip Gibbs will officiate.  Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church.  Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Bill was born October 17, 1926, in Dubuque, the son of Carl and Mabel (Timberlake) Frederick.  He attended Dubuque Senior High School.  In October of 1944 at age 18 he enlisted in the Army during World War II and served in combat in the European Theatre of Operations, where he was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Battle Star.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #6. He was a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Disabled American Veterans.

He married Arlette M. Meyer on May 28, 1949, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. They settled into a home on Queen Street where the first four of their five children were born.

They moved to Cassville, WI in 1958 to start a new adventure.  Before his retirement as plant manager in 1990, he was employed with Wisconsin Power & Light (now known as Alliant Energy) for 32 years at the Nelson Dewey Generating Station in Cassville where his kids were able to spend time fishing from the piers and Eagle-watching from the rooftop.

While living in Cassville, Bill was active in the community. He served on the Cassville Village Board of Trustees, the Harbor Commission, the Cassville Civil Defense Organization, and the Cassville Civics Club. He also served on the St. Charles Parish Council and was active in Cub Scouting and the annual Twin-O-Rama Twins Picnic.

After retiring back to the Asbury/Dubuque area in 1990, Bill was involved in many activities at the Church of the Resurrection in Asbury, including the annual car raffle.  He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #510, and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, aerie No. 568.

In his spare time, Bill enjoyed golf, achieving a hole-in-one at the age of 72. He also enjoyed woodworking, making many beautiful pieces for his family, from cabinets to grandfather clocks to toys for grandkids. One of his greatest joys was gardening, and his family and friends enjoyed many tomato sammiches and juicy corn on the cob. Bill also enjoyed a good game of bridge or euchre, and he loved to read.  Most of all, Bill loved visiting with family and friends.

Bill is survived by four children, Stephen (Karen) Frederick of Kennesaw, GA, Barbara (John) Schwarz of Kenosha, WI, James Frederick of Cassville, WI, and Mark (Kari) Frederick of Cuba City, WI; grandchildren, Matthew Frederick, Jennifer (Matthew) Hampton, Margaret (fiancé Brad Smith) Frederick, Anthony (Stephanie) Schwarz, Nicholas (Sheena) Schwarz, John “JP” Schwarz, Paul Frederick, Anna (Jacob) Brox, John Frederick, and Kyle Frederick; 14 great grandchildren, Ander, Cayson, Pearcen, Ava, Luke, Caris, Juliet, Livia Arlette, James, Caden, Carter, Max, Nicholas Jr., and Emma “Li’l Okie”. He is also survived by his sister Patricia Alvestad of Vacaville, CA, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Arlette, on December 6, 2017, son Jeffrey, stepmother Christine (Darnauer) Frederick, a brother Gerald (Betty), sisters Viola (Fred) Thompson and Lila (Richard) Buchholz, brothers-in-law Bernard “Bear” Griffith, Leonard Meyer, and Gerald (Jeanne) Meyer, and good friend Jan Eudaley.

Memorials may be given to Hills & Dales, Resurrection Church, Hospice of Dubuque, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), or Assisi Village.

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, Village Caregivers, the Dubuque VA, and the entire staff at Assisi Village, who always treated Bill like a member of their family. They are all very special people for the difficult work they do and the incredible compassion they show.

Eugene J. Kelley Jr.

Eugene J. Kelley, Jr. died on December 3, 2022, due to complications of Parkinson’s disease. He was 85 years old.

Gene loved practicing law, art, sculpture, literature, theater, movies, music, athletics, and travel.  He combined his love of sports and travel by attending several of the Olympic Games with his wife, Anne Kelley.  In addition to his study and admiration of the arts and literature, he enjoyed creating sculptures and composing poetry. He was also greatly attached to his farmland in Elizabeth, IL.

He was born in Chicago, IL in 1937.  He grew up in Winnetka, IL, and attended New Trier Township High School, where he excelled as a wrestler before going on to earn a B.S. from the University of Notre Dame in 1959.  In 1963 he graduated with a J.D. from the Northwestern University School of Law, where he was the Winner of the American Jurisprudence Award for Trial Practice and Pleading.  Gene enjoyed a successful career as a commercial litigation attorney, serving as Partner and Co-Chair of the Litigation Group of Arnstein & Lehr LLP. In addition to the many cases he tried to verdict in both state and federal courts, he also won several major class action cases.  He was also an instructor for the Illinois National Conference on Consumer Finance, the Practicing Law Institute, and the American Bar Association, and served as an advisor to the members of the state’s largest risk pool, for which he was corporate counsel. He was a founding Board Member of the National Association of Dealer Counsel and was selected as a member of the Leading Lawyers Network of Illinois.  Gene also served as the President of the Condominium Board at 1212 N. Lakeshore Drive, where he resided with his wife Anne for 25 years prior to retiring to Galena, IL.  Aside from his career, one of Gene’s greatest accomplishments was preventing the Illinois Department of Transportation from building a “North Corridor” highway through Guilford Township.  He was also deeply committed to his work with feeding the homeless through Holy Name Cathedral and Catholic Charities, where he faithfully organized Thursday night dinners for 15 years.

Gene now joins Anne J. Kelley, his wife of 50 years, who passed in 2018.

He is survived by his daughter, Maria Kelley, and his son and daughter-in-law, Matthew and Fatima Kelley, and two grandchildren, Corinna and Zion Kelley, as well as his sister-in-law, Elizabeth Arnold, and his nieces and nephews, Colin Kelley, Tucker Kelley, Margaret Kelley, Marc Ferranti, Peter Ferranti, Paul Ferranti, Tom Ferranti, Mary Ferranti, and John Ferranti.

A memorial service for Gene will be held at the Catholic Church of St. Mary, 112 E. Washington Street, Elizabeth, IL at 11:00 AM on Saturday, January 14, 2023.  A reception will follow at the DeSoto House Hotel, 230 S. Main Street, Galena, IL from 2 to 4 PM.

The Furlong Funeral  Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Name Cathedral, 750 N Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611.  Please specify “dinner” in the memo.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

David J. Manternach

David J. Manternach, 87, of Monticello passed away Monday, January 2, 2023, at his home.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 am Saturday, January 7, 2023, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11 a.m.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate and burial will be in the church cemetery.

Dave was born on September 2, 1935, in Monticello the son of Norbert and Katherine (Muller) Manternach.  He served in the Army, stationed in Puerto Rico between September of 1954 and 1956.  He married Elaine Kopecky on April 8, 1961, in Clutier, Iowa.  Together they farmed near Monticello until retiring in 2001.  He enjoyed golfing, gardening, tinkering in the shop and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine, children: Patty (Greg) Sharp of Cedar Rapids, Linda (Al) Hartung of Dubuque, Diane (Kevin) Gray of Monticello, Duane (Sonya) Manternach of Monticello, and Kevin (Nicole) Manternach of Ely; 14 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; siblings: Phyllis Manternach, OSF of Dubuque, Dan (Joan) Manternach of Monticello, Jerry (Carolyn) Manternach of Anamosa, in-laws: Donna Manternach of Monticello.

He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother, Martha Manternach, infant sister, Rita, a sister, Christine Bertling and a brother, Norbert.

ramer Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials and cards may be sent to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, Iowa.

Patrick R. Sullivan

Patrick R. Sullivan, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, died Friday, December 30, 2022, at home peacefully in his sleep after dealing with dementia for many years.

The Mass for Christian Burial for Patrick will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 5, 2023, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church with Father Tom McDermott as the Celebrant.  Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at the church.   Burial will be in St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Tennyson, WI. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL, is serving the family.

Patrick was born on June 16, 1943, at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, IA, the son of Francis and Margretta (Sendt) Sullivan.   He attended East Dubuque High School where he excelled in basketball, baseball, and football graduating in 1961 as class valedictorian.  He received a basketball scholarship from Loras College which he attended for one year prior to enrolling and serving two years in the US Army.   On August 6, 1966 – he married the love of his life, Judi Argus, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.   They enjoyed over 56 years of marriage and were blessed with 3 sons.    Patrick worked for Flexsteel Industries until his retirement.

He was a passionate advocate for Fastpitch softball which he spent 16 years playing as a catcher, and 25 years as an administrator with The International Softball Congress at the state and national level.   He played in a dozen ISC Word Tournaments and was selected to The ISC All-World tournament team as a catcher in 1969.  He was inducted into the Iowa Fastpitch Hall of Fame in 1992 and the International Softball Congress Hall of Fame in 1993.

His life was guided by his strong faith, love of family, and friendships.  He was a devoted husband and a mentor, coach, and role model for his three sons and nine grandchildren.  He greatly enjoyed his retirement years as “Papa”.  He always had fun golfing and playing euchre at Lacoma Golf Club.  He and Judi loved their Tuesday nights at the Moracco with the Weitzels, and especially all the times at the Shot Tower after Wahlert basketball games (and his Miller Lite with a glass of ice).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judi Sullivan, of Dubuque; 3 children, Joe (Catherine) Sullivan of St. Louis, MO, Dave (Amy) Sullivan of Denver, CO, and Mike Sullivan (Julie Shaw) of Dubuque; 9 grandchildren, Grace, Patrick, Emily, Claire of St. Louis, MO; Joseph, Ryan, Nicholas of Denver, CO; and Leah, Brooke Sullivan of Dubuque; and his siblings Betty Placke of Delavan, WI, Dan (Arlene) Sullivan of Iowa City, IA, and Mike (Joayne) Sullivan of East Dubuque, IL; his sisters-in-law, Charlene Stephens of Verona, WI and Joanne McGuire of Peosta, IA; and numerous family and friends.

He was preceded by death by his parents, his sisters-in-law, Nancy Patzner and Ruth Argus, and brothers-in-law, Robert McGuire and Dean Stephens.

A special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque (especially Ryan, Sara, and Amber) for your wonderful support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or The Sister Water Project at Mt. St. Francis.

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

Sandy Skahill

Sandy Skahill, of East Dubuque, IL 71, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 27, 2022. Sandy requested no visitation; a celebration of her life will be at a later date.

She graduated from Galena High School and went on to work for DB&T for many years and later for Cottingham & Butler as an executive assistant. After retirement she worked with her cousin and close friend, Michelle “shelly” Randecker at the Mississippi Abbey. She found peace working with and becoming a friend to the sisters.

She met her husband Patrick Skahill and they married on November 17, 1973, they had a daughter Angie and their adventures as a family began. She volunteered with numerous clubs when Angie was younger, including Marshall school and as a brownie leader.

Pat and Sandy just celebrated 49 years of marriage; they enjoyed numerous Harley rides and adventures together including Sturgis. One of the best adventures was becoming a grandmother and great grandmother.

In the summertime Sandy was seen on the back of Pat’s Harley, or in her garden or on the baseball fields, rain or shine watching Aiden play.

She enjoyed time with Heather and Lincoln when they visited; going through old photo albums or watching VCR tapes, made from the weekend trips to “nana and pakoo” all throughout their childhood. & yes, I said VCR tapes.

Wintertime you’d see sandy at the ice rink cheering on her favorite hockey player Keegan, all throughout his hockey career. She would often get out various picture books she carried with her at all times, showing off her grandchildren and great grandson Lincoln.

Recently we discovered scrapbooks she has for all the grandkids with their newspaper clipping, achievements, pictures and pretty much anything they scribbled on. We will enjoy the treasures she left. she will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Pat Skahill of East Dubuque, IL; their daughter, Angie (Steven Spiegelhalter) Skahill Lesch of Dubuque IA. Grandchildren: Heather, Keegan and Aiden, of Dubuque, IA and her great grandson Lincoln Russell. Her brothers: Harry Holloman, of East Dubuque, IL, and Jerry Jr, (Rosa) Holloman, of Washington, IL; her sister-in-law: Mary Benedict, brother-in-law, Michael (Barb) Skahill & her canine companion “Bear”.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles and her brother-in-law.

In lieu of flowers memorials can be mailed to the funeral home in c/o the family of Sandy Skahill.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Skilled Nursing; the doctors and staff at MercyOne Medical Center and especially aunt mary “Annie” who has been there in more ways that can be explained for the family.

Leroy G. Abresch

Leroy G. Abresch, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 31, 2022, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday January 5, 2023, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, 5213 St. Catherine Road, with Fr. Dave Ambrosy officiating. Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 4, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, and also on Thursday from 9:30 a.m. until the start of Mass Thursday at the church. Burial will take place in St. Catherine’s church cemetery.

Leroy was born on May 15, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George and Iva (Cook) Abresch. He attended schooling until the eighth grade at Franklin School in Dubuque. He married the love of his life, Edna Wallenhorst, on October 29, 1960, at Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler, Wisconsin. Leroy was first employed at Dubuque Packing Company, then at Celotex Corporation as a heavy equipment operator for approximately 25 years and at Mount Saint Francis as a boiler operator. He was a member of the St. Catherine’s Parish since 1961 and volunteered for many parish activities and dinners.

He was an avid fisherman who loved enjoying the outdoors. He loved to camp and cut trees for his own firewood. Leroy also enjoyed gardening, traveling and loved his cats.

Leroy is survived by his children Deanna (Andy) Tomkins, Tim Abresch, William (Diem) Abresch, Steve Abresch, and Sara Bartella, grandchildren Matt, Danny, Stormie, Jessica, Sara, Danny, Jonathan, Adam, Billie Jo, Danny-Aaran, his many great grandchildren who all made him proud, brothers Pat and Dan Abresch, and many sisters-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his wife Edna, parents George and Iva, grandson Steve Tomkins, granddaughter Michelle Abresch, and many siblings.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Leroy Abresch family.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Ennoble for providing for Leroy and keeping him comfortable during his last days.