Obituaries Archive

Mrs. Audrey Ann Okey

Mrs. Audrey Ann Okey, 89, 3203 Lake Ridge Dr., Dubuque, passed away peacefully on September 6th surrounded by loving friends, caregivers and her remaining son Jeffrey Okey, 64, of Los Angeles, CA.

An avid reader of both fiction and non-fiction,  Audrey really loved mysteries, classic movies and had a special fondness for news and books about the British Royal Family. As a mother of two sons, she shared her love of reading and movies with them.

She was preceded in death by her husband  of 51 years, Gilbert Okey, 71, in 2004 who she met in Dubuque while both were in college. She was also preceded in death by her first son Timothy Okey, 38, who tragically passed away much too soon in 1995.

Audrey grew up in Dubuque and was raised by her grandmother, Lena Hopp, who she affectionately called “Nana.”

She was greatly loved by her friends Terry and Debi, wonderful Home Instead caregivers, her “Go To Guy” Steve Houselog of Dubuque, and her remaining son, Jeffrey who is eternally grateful to her church, caregivers and friends.

Service will be held at 10:30 am, Wednesday, Sept. 13, at First Presbyterian Church, 1684 Iowa St. in Dubuque. Doors will open at 9:30 for those who wish to view her photos and share stories of her.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations in Audrey’s name to First Presbyterian Church.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Sr. Jane Hosch, OSF

Sister Jane (Victor) Hosch, OSF of the Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 1:25 a.m. Monday, September 4, 2023 at the Clare House

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. Friday, September 8, 2023. Masks are optional. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans. The Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Sister was born on September 16, 1933 in Cascade, IA the daughter of Andrew and Olivia (Klinker) Hosch

Entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1952 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1958. Sister received her master’s degree in educational administration from Clarke College, Dubuque, IA and her doctorate degree in administrative leadership from St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. She ministered as a teacher and various administrator roles in Iowa at St. Edward, Waterloo; Briar Cliff College and Sacred Heart, Sioux City; St. Patrick, Cedar Falls; and Sacred Heart, Boone. Other education missions included Niles, IL; Moraga and Pasadena, CA; Washington D.C.; Charleston and Beaufort, SC; Springfield and Cape Girardeau, MO; and the Diocese of Sioux City, IA.

Sister is survived by her nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Mary Alma Hosch and Pauline (Mel) Green; brothers Charles Hosch, Edward Hosch, Robert (Marion) Hosch, and James (Lyndene) Hosch.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Bernard H. Soat

Bernard H. “Bernie” Soat, 86 of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA, surrounded by his family. Visitation for Bernard will be held at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL on Sunday, September 10, with Rosary at 1:30pm, followed by a visitation from 2pm – 5pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30am on Monday, September 11, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in East Dubuque, IL., with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Bernard was born on September 21, 1936, in East Dubuque, IL. He lived a blessed life with his wife, Dorothy (Banwarth), whom he married on September 29, 1962. Bernard spent his whole life living in East Dubuque, in a house that he and his family members built and made into a loving and bountiful home.

Bernard served in the US Army, stationed in Europe, for more than two years. After 30 years working at John Deere, he worked part-time for Sanitary Towel Service of Dubuque, IA for many years, then fully enjoyed his retirement. Bernie was a member of the United Auto Workers Local 94, as well as the UAW Retirees. He was a life-long Cubs and Packers fan, and enjoyed camping, bowling, and euchre. He loved a good time, a cold beer, and was always the last to leave a party. In his later years, Bernie could most often be found in his workshop crafting wooden decorations for his home and family, testing his luck at the Casino, watching Andy Griffith re-runs, enjoying his wife’s homemade meals, or attending his grandchildren’s activities and events. His quick wit and sense of humor never left him, as he was lighting up rooms with laughter, even in his final days. Bernie will be remembered most for his loving, infectious smile, and the joy and contentment he brought to every occasion.

Bernard is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Dorothy Soat; his four children, Mike (Karin) Soat of Fort Wayne, IN, Dan (Joe Rokusek) of Dubuque, Renee (BJ) Johll of Peosta, IA, and Amy (Dan) Benson of Galena, IL; his seven grandchildren, Meghan (Mary Fox) Soat, Brandon (Gwen) Soat, Elinor (Tanner) Barnwell, Anna Johll, Sara, Sydney, and Danielle Benson. He is also survived by his brother Victor (Esther) Soat of Menominee, IL, his sister-in-law Helen Soat of Dubuque, IA, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Bernard is preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Irene Soat, his sister and brother-in-law, Bertilla “Tillie” and Jerry Westemeier, his brother Elmer, his brother and sister-in-law Merlin and Marlene Soat, as well as in-laws Alvin and Armella Banwarth, sister-in-law Kay Banwarth, and nieces Anne Oeth, Mona Rowell, and Judy Bingham.

The family would like to express its gratitude to the caring staff of UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital and Stonehill Care Center for their compassionate care.

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

Dave Hayes

Dave Hayes, 61, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Tuesday, September 5, 2023.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 9, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where a memorial service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday. Deacon Dave Roth will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Dave was born August 29, 1962 in Dubuque, the son of Gerald and Joanne (Rossman) Hayes. Dave was employed at several places over the years, including as a gravedigger for J.P. Vincent and Sons in Galena, at Walmart in Galena, and most recently at Way Point as a delivery driver.

Dave was a social butterfly who also enjoyed relaxing at home and going to the casino. Dave was a man of many words to many people he was around.  In his younger years he enjoyed playing softball. He was a devoted pet owner, and loved his dog, Shenay.

Dave is survived by his longtime companion, Penny Koehler, of Dubuque, and her son, Tyler (CeCe) Koehler, of Phoenix, AZ; his siblings, Michael (Patricia) Hayes, Karen Kutsch, Lynn (Tom) Dotterweich, and Jim Hayes, all of Dubuque; two sons, Gavin Glynn and Tony Ernst; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three siblings, Deb Avenarius, Jeff Hayes, and Jerry Hayes.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Rose Mary Spillane

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rose Mary Spillane, on September 4, 2023. Rose, who died at the age of 80, left this world peacefully, surrounded by her loving family and friends in her final days. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, love, and selflessness that will forever be etched in our hearts.

A gathering will be held from 4 to 7 PM, on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. The funeral service will begin at 11 AM, Thursday, September 14, 2023, at Furlong Funeral Chapel, with her brother Fr. Donald Tranel officiating.

Rose was born on July 20, 1943, in Menominee, the daughter of Al and Mary Tranel. After graduating from Wahlert High School, she married Ron, her teenage sweetheart October 20, 1962. She worked for many years as a medical bookkeeper. Rose was the loving wife of 61 years to Ron, and a devoted mother to Dave (deceased), Mike, Greg, and Brian.  Her family was her pride and joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She was game for any adventure with Ron and her sons whom she all called “My Boys”.  Rose was an accomplished trap shooter, and eagerly participated in many camping, hunting, and fishing adventures. She was kind and giving, and anyone entering her home felt welcome. Everyone she met counted her as a friend.  Her warm smile and gentle demeanor brightened the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.

She is survived by her husband Ron, her children Mike (Lori) of Galena, Greg (Susan) of Cary, IL, and Brian (Becky) of East Dubuque, and her grandchildren Austin, Emily (Joe) Pagura, Quinn, Cameron, Ellie, and Allison.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Patty in infancy, and her first-born son Dave.

Special thanks for the gentle, attentive care given by the wonderful, caring team from Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jessica, Hayle, and Amy. The family kindly requests any donations be made in her honor to Hospice of Dubuque or the United Way of Dubuque Area Tri-States.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Hillary M. Lynch

Hillary Marie Lynch, 42 of Bernard, Iowa passed away on September 4th, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center after a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 7th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 8th, 2023, at St. Lawrence Church Otter Creek with Fr. Mark Osterhaus officiating. Burial will follow in St. Aloysius Cemetery South Garryowen.

Hillary was born on April 17, 1981, in Maquoketa, Iowa the daughter of Marvin Anderson and Sheila Beauchamp. She graduated from Maquoketa High School and received her Bachelor of Animal Science from Black Hawk East West Texas A&M.

She married Jeffrey Lynch on August 7, 2004, at St. Lawrence Church in Otter Creek.

She worked as a Purina Nutrition Specialist and was the 1st woman in Purina History to win Rookie of the year in sales.

Hillary was a member of Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, National Barrel Horse Association, Illinois Little Britches Rodeo Association and Wisconsin High School Rodeo Association.

Hillary was an avid equestrian her entire life. Competing in Rodeos from High School to college to pro rodeos as an adult. She also competed in horse judging throughout her life and became a professional horse judge.

Her most treasured trophy is her family. With the love of her life, Jeff, Hillary traveled to many horse shows and rodeos teaching her children the love of horses that will forever be instilled in them.

She is survived by her loving husband Jeff; her two children who she cherished: Johnnie (age 12) and Cutter (age 8); her mother Sheila Beauchamp-Thola (Robert Thola); her father Marvin Anderson; her mother-in-law Lois Lynch; her siblings Jessica (Scott) Hingtgen, Giselle (Austin) Till and Libby (Ryan) Palmer; step-brother Brian (Missy) Thola; brother-in-law Brian Schroeder along with 13 beautiful nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her step-sister Angela Thola-Schroeder and her father-in-law John Lynch.

The family wishes to thank all the health care professionals who helped care for Hillary over her three-year battle. A special thank you to all of their family, friends and neighbors for all their wonderful love, compassion and friendship.

In lieu of flowers a Hillary Lynch memorial fund will be established for her children Johnnie and Cutter. The Memorial account will be established at Dupaco Community Credit Union.  Memorials may also be sent to the funeral home or to 5571 234th Street Bernard, Iowa 52032.

Daniel L. Heber

Daniel Luke Heber, 60, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away suddenly on September 4th, 2023, doing something he enjoyed with guys he thought of as brothers.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday September 8th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service to start at 3:00 p.m. with Deacon John Stierman.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday September 9th, 2023, at St. Joseph Key West Catholic Church with Monsignor Thomas Toale officiating with Deacon John Stierman as Homilist. Inurnment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Dan was born on September 19, 1962, in Dubuque, son of Richard and Dorothy (Heri) Heber. He attended Wahlert Catholic High School and Flathead Valley Community College. He was united in marriage to Tresa Merfeld on June 16th, 1990, in Zwingle, Iowa. Dan worked as a Machinist and Maintenance Worker at Rite Hite in Dubuque.

He loved being outdoors, whether it was hunting, fishing, gardening, taking walks, or just sitting around the campfire. Dan had a knack for striking up conversation with everyone. He had many hobbies and was always happy to share his knowledge, or to lend a helping hand.

Above all, Dan loved his family.

Dan is survived by his wife of 33 years, Tresa, and their two children Mark (Destiny Taylor) Heber of DeWitt, Iowa and Megan (Javon Duarte) Heber of Coralville, Iowa, sisters Sue, Joan, and Linda, aunt Eileen Duehr, in-laws Eldon (Connie) Merfeld, Jay (Angel Schiffer) Merfeld, Brett (Julie) Merfeld, Jenifer (Ed) Pickel, and Tom Merfeld, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Richard & Dorothy Heber, mother-in-law Sue Merfeld, and sister-in-law Iris Merfeld.

In lieu of flowers, a Daniel L. Heber Memorial Fund has been established.

Thank you to Deacons John and Fred, and Chuck for your help and kindness.

Beverly B. Tegeler

Beverly B. (Hay Calhoun) Tegeler, 97, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, September 4, 2023 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.  Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Friday, September 8, 2023 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Family will greet friends 9:00 am – 10:30 am prior to  Mass at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be livestreamed on St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter Paul Springbrook Facebook Page.

Beverly was born July 22, 1926, the daughter of Kenneth and Loretta (Meissner) Hay.  She married Lyle “Bud” G. Calhoun on January 27, 1945 at the Church of Christ, where they began raising their three children until 1958 when they moved to Dubuque, he passed suddenly on January 24, 1974.  Beverly was a homemaker who enjoyed bowling, dancing, couples card club and socializing with friends and also watching sports on T.V.  She later married Gilbert G. Tegeler on October 18, 1975, he passed on February 2, 2002.  They enjoyed spending time together whether it was dancing, golfing, bowling, traveling, or building their home together.  Beverly worked at JcPenney for many years.  Together they spent many years as snowbirds in Weslaco, Texas.  She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and the Rosary Society.  Beverly will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Christine (Steve) Kafer of Dubuque, James (Deb) Calhoun of Dubuque, and Barbara Calhoun of Bellevue; grandchildren, David (Amy) Kafer, Adam (Angie) Kafer, and Courtney Calhoun; great-grandchildren, Spencer and Jayceon Kafer, Brandon, Millie, and Bodhi Kafer; step-children, John “Jack” (Judy) Tegeler of Clinton, Larry (Georgene) Tegeler of Noblesville, IN, Thomas (Sandy) Tegeler of Clinton, Judy (Marty) Sheehy of Bellevue, Donna (Mark) Medinger of Bellevue, Don (Marcia) Tegeler of Clinton, and Ron (Stephanie) Tegeler of Clinton; 21 step grandchildren; 46 step great-grandchildren; and 17 step great-great grandchildren.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Lyle and Gilbert; two sisters, Carol Pfennig and Shirley (Mike) Cole; step-brothers, Bob (Joyce) Best, and Gerald (Velda) Best; step-sister, Myra (Bob) Barnhisel; and a step-grandson, Mike Sheehy.

In lieu of flowers-a memorial fund has been established in Beverly’s memory.

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

Lavonne Toner

Lavonne Toner, 70, of Dubuque died Monday, September 4, 2023.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Funeral Service will be 1:30 pm Friday at the Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. The funeral service will be livestreamed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Lavonne was born July 5, 1953 in Council Bluffs, Iowa, daughter of Lauren and Lila (Whittington) Leaders.  She graduated from Underwood High School and attended one year of college.

She worked at Du-Trac Credit Union as a debt counselor for 40 years before her retirement.

On August 29, 1998 she married Tim Toner in Blades Chapel at the University of Dubuque.

Lavonne was an avid sports fan.  She enjoyed playing golf and made a hole in one.  She and Tim met playing mixed softball.  She also enjoyed bowling and was a Packers fan.  She also enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and watching all of their sporting activities.

She is survived by her husband, Tim Toner of Dubuque; daughter, Lindsay Jaeger of Dubuque; two step daughters, Angie (Ryan) McMahon of Dubuque and Holly Toner of Chicago; five grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren and six step grandchildren.

She is also survived by a brother, Marlon (Sheri) Leaders of Texas and a sister, Carol (Larry) Gregg of Heywarden, Iowa.

Lavonne was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Denny Miller; and a brother, Alan Leaders.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Lavonne Toner Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank all of the staff at Hospice of Dubuque, and Drs. Kumar and Berman for all of their care.

Marjorie Bailey

Marjorie “Midge” Bailey, 79, of Dubuque, died Monday, September 4, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Church of the Nativity.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Midge will be 10:30 am Saturday, September 9, 2023, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Midge was born September 10, 1943, in Wauzeka, WI, the daughter of James Nelson and Elsie Rose (Lathrop) McCarthy. On September 15, 1962, she married Charles Anthony Bailey in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

Midge graduated from Prairie du Chien High School in 1961. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Mercy Medical Center for 29 years.  She was a member of Church of the Nativity.  She cherished time with her children and grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Chuck of Dubuque; four children, Brian Bailey of Iowa City; James (Robin) Bailey of LaVernia, TX; Kimberly (Nicolas) Algarra of Gainesville, FL; and Daniel (Nancy) Bailey of Winona, MN; eleven grandchildren, Nicole, Kyle, Craig, Tiffany, Amy, Donald, Nicolas, Lauren, Nathan, Zachary, and Allison; two bonus grandchildren, Stephany and Lizbeth; eight great-grandchildren, Jordan, Luka, Liliana, Curtis, Leia-Claire, Emmalin, Jackson, and Kristin; two sisters, Virginia Culver of New Berlin, WI and Mary Alice Osterhaus of Prairie du Chien, WI; sisters-in-law, Rosemary McCarthy of Wauzeka and Mary Beth McCormick of Oak Park, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, James, Raymond, and Donald; and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Dr. John Whalen, Julie Ehlinger, ARNP, and all of the nursing staff in the cardiac unit at MercyOne.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Midge’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Darrell Weigert

Darrell “Ed” Weigert, 85, of Dubuque, passed away September 3, 2023.

Memorial services will be 10:30a.m., Saturday, September 9, 2023 at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, 2843 John F. Kennedy Road, Dubuque. Inurnment will be at a later date in New Oregon Cemetery, Cresco, Iowa.

Darrell was born on February 15, 1938 to Raymond O. and Jessie (Jennings) Weigert in Mount Pleasant, Iowa.

He was united in marriage to Judith Weigert on December 12, 1959. She preceded him in death on January 2, 1994. He married Carolyn “Sue” Weigert on March 10, 2001.

Ed attended Mt. Pleasant Highschool in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. He obtained a master’s degree in sociology. He later went on to obtain a master’s degree in psychology as well, graduating from Iowa Wesleyan University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa.

Ed worked as a school psychologist for Keystone AEA for 39 years. After retiring in Iowa, Ed worked an additional seven years as a school psychologist in Illinois.

Ed was an active member of Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel.

He enjoyed visiting fellow church friends at various nursing homes. Ed would often deliver meals and take friends out and about for drives around town. He also spent time delivering meals for Convivium Urban Farmstead.

In his free time, he also enjoyed giving tours at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, fishing, feeding the birds, square dancing in his younger years, and playing bridge with Sue among many friends.

Ed is survived by his wife, Sue; children, Eugene Edward (Mary) Weigert, and Jonelle R. (Al Zweibohmer) Mlady; grandchildren, Christopher Weigert, Nicholas Weigert, Samantha Weigert, Fletcher Weigert, Bethany (Dylan) Schrage, and Janel (Kyle) Ollendieck. He is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren and a sister, Jane Ann Bitting. Also surviving are five stepchildren.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Judith Weigert; daughter, Julie J. Weigert; and a grandson, Gregory Mlady.

Ed’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care and compassion given to Ed, and their friends at Arbor Oaks Bible Church. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to African missionaries, Daniel and Anna Johnson (checks can be made to Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, 2843 John F. Kennedy Road, Dubuque) or Whispering Hope Animal Shelter.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

James C. Butler

James Carlton Butler, 90, passed away on September 4, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00a.m., Friday, September 8, 2023 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Funeral services will immediately follow at 11:00a.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post 6.

James served in the US. Army with pride and received The National Defense Medal and was honorably discharged.

He retired at the Dubuque Packing house after 40 years. Then needing something to do, he worked part time at Walmart for 10 years.

During his retirement years, he liked to golf at Lacoma until the age of 88. James will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.

James is survived by his three sons, Patrick and wife Sharon of Dubuque, Michael and wife Anna of Salt Lake City and Daniel of Costa Mesa, California. James is also survived by his brother, Richard Butler; sisters, MaryLou Feiple and Connie Kruse. Also surviving are several grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Betty M. Butler; parents, Lester and Constantine Butler; brother, Tom Butler; and sister, Bonnie Villard.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Candace and Michelle for James’ care.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Tom Knepper

On September 2, 2023, Tom, a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and devout Catholic, passed away peacefully with his wife, Jannan by his side, in their home in Dubuque, Iowa.  Tom was born on August 9, 1944 in Cascade, Iowa.  He was 79 years old.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be at 12:00 p.m. with Fr. David Schatz officiating.  Burial to follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Tom grew up in Cascade, Iowa where he went to school and met his lifelong friends who he stayed loyal to, counted on, and had many adventures with throughout his life.  Tom spent his entire working career at Bob’s Body Shop in Cascade.

Tom enjoyed the outdoors (hunting, canoeing, camping, foraging for morels), card playing, taking the ‘scenic’ routes, scaring people, and being sarcastic.  People who knew him well and people who just met him would all use the same words to describe him; sweetie, kind, hardworking, craftsman, gentle soul, and jokester.  He was known by his family and friends for his famous chili that he would wake early to start, just so it had the right amount of ‘simmer’ time, his North Dakota hat that he never left home without, and his daily Hershey bar fix.  Tom was entertained by scaring his loved ones, if it was chasing them on the stairs, standing behind a door, or just giving them a surprise ‘zing’! He had many accomplishments throughout his life, but Tom’s true gift was being able to fix anything, build anything, and ‘see’ what others couldn’t.  One of Tom’s passions was seeking junk cars, rebuilding them, and making sure they were safe for his loved ones to enjoy.  When Tom wasn’t fixing something, he and wife Jannan, loved to take spontaneous road trips with friends, which usually ended in a longer route home.  Tom’s altruistic acts were felt by everyone who knew him; he was always the one to lend a hand when help was needed, no matter the time of day or project.

Tom is survived by his devoted wife Jannan, of over 47 years, and their daughter Sharlie, who stayed with him during the final weeks of his life, her husband Teeder and 3 daughters from a previous marriage, Dawn (Lance), Lisa (Jeff), and Susie (friend Jim). Tom has 8 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, all that hold a special spot in their hearts for their ‘Gramps’ and ‘Papa’ who will forever miss him.  His very special, lifelong friends, Johnny and Ginger Elgin, and the many friends from the Grand Tap.  Tom has one sister, Marlene, who will miss him dearly.  Tom was predeceased by his father Lawrence, mother Darlene, brother Eddy, father-in-law Tony Schwendinger, and best friend Gary.

A special thanks to; Dr. Mark Janes, Dr. Ryan Stille, who cared for Tom for many years and continued to care and do everything possible for Tom, even in his last days.  To Dr. Loc who never gave up on Tom and tried every scenario to help Tom get better. Dr. Rodriegriez, Dr. Parker who were such a comfort to Tom and his family the last couple of days.

We would also like to thank those who cared for Tom and made sure he was always comfortable; the Nurses and CNA’s at Mercy CVU, his Case Worker and Social Worker, Hospice of Dubuque who not only helped Tom but also his family, and Mercy Home Care, who always made sure Tom had everything he needed.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice in memory of Tom.

Lila M. Heim

Lila Mary Heim, 100 of Galena, IL passed away Saturday, September 2, 2023, at Midwest Senior Care Center, Galena. A private graveside service will be held. She will be buried beside her husband Herbert in Pilot Knob Cemetery, rural Galena. A service of remembrance will be held later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

Lila was a Centenarian blessing us with 100 years with her on this Earth! She was born to Greek immigrants Nicholas and Kaliope (Vrotsos) Menegas from the Island of Samos. Lila was a loving, sweet, and compassionate soul who always had a smile on her face and a kind word for everyone. She was filled with love and her family was definitely #1!  She loved to read, watch her favorite TV shows, and talk on the phone with friends and family.

In her younger days, she was, we were told by others many, many times, one of the best dancers in Galena and enjoyed dancing to the big bands. She was an avid Wisconsin Badger fan, attended a basketball game at The Kohl Center, and enjoyed all Badger sports game days on TV.  She rarely complained about anything and was not afraid of hard work.

In her workplace at Illinois Bell, she began her career as an operator. “Number please”!  When the switchover to dial tone came about, she was offered the opportunity to take on an administrative role and held that position for 35 years.

She was extremely proud of her familial roots and her Greek heritage.  Every now and then she would lay an “Opa “on us!  As time went on, her hearing diminished, although she would never admit it, and she developed her in-house standard answer “What say?”  If she wanted to make a point, she changed it up to “I say!”

The loss is immeasurable, but so is the love left behind. Rest in peace, Lila.

She is survived by her son Terrance “Terry” (Beth Ann) Heim, three grandsons, Damon (Anne) Heim, Aaron (Lauren Palmer) Heim, and Christian (Aislinn O’Brien)Heim, one granddaughter, Kirsten (Trent Schubert, fiancée) Heim, and two great-grandchildren, Landon and her namesake, Lila Heim, one sister, Irene “Nene” Beadle.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Herbert Heim, two brothers, George and Harry Menegas, three sisters, Frances “Frannie” Carter, Demetria “Tulie” Jameson, and Theodora “Dorie” Jaeger, four brothers-in-law, Clarence Carter, Bob Jameson, Leo Jaeger, and Thomas Beadle, and two-sisters-in-law, Pauline and Callie Menegas.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Vandigo and his staff, the nurses and staff at Midwest Senior Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, the staff at Midwest Medical Center, and Galena EMS for their professionalism, compassion, and care for Lila.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Helen A. Lattner

Helen Ann (Kennedy) Lattner, beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother, age 97, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on September 2, 2023 at Stonehill Communities from natural causes. Visitation will be from 8 to 9:45 am Saturday, September 9, 2023 at St. Colubmkilles Catholic Church, followed by Mass of Christian burial at 10 am. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Ann was born on June 6, 1926, at home on her family farm in Bankston, Iowa to John and Marie (Pfiffner) Kennedy.   Ann was a 1943 graduate of St Clement High School. After she received her teaching certificate from Clarke College, she taught in two different one-room schools in Dubuque County.

On October 28, 1950 Ann was united in marriage to Loras Lattner at St Clement

Catholic Church in Bankston.  After marriage, Ann devoted her life to her family of five children. She always took great pride in her farm heritage, especially her “can do” work ethic. Like most girls raised on a farm she would eagerly and adroitly tackle any challenge.

She loved to quilt, garden, cook, bake, sew, write letters, help at the City Mission and visit the sick in area nursing homes and hospitals.  She enjoyed her Euchre Clubs and following Iowa Hawkeye men’s and women’s basketball.

Ann’s priorities in life, were God, family and country (especially the Bankston area).

Her faith sustained and molded her into a loving and caring person.

Ann was an active member of St Columbkille’s Parish for over 70 years.

She was active in her community as a member of numerous groups and later in life as a religious education teacher and substitute teacher at Dubuque Catholic schools.  She had a special devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary, St Jude, and St Francis.

Ann is survived by her beloved sister Esther Fagan, her four children: John, Dr. Mike (Claire), Tom (Tammy) Lattner all of Dubuque, IA and Mary Ann (Harley) Roth of Cainesville, MO;  grandchildren: Andy and Ryan (Katie) Roeth,  Megan (Daniel)  Stephens, Julia Lattner,  Alyssa Lattner, Kaitlin (Connor) Flynn, and  Drew (Deidre) Lattner:  great grandchildren:  Anna and Ally Roeth, Elizabeth and Genevieve Lattner, Norah and Ryder Stephens, and many loving nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband Loras, her daughter Lynne (Lattner) Prendergast, grandson Tyler Lattner, sisters Mickey (Don) Burlage, Kay (Joe) Smith, brother Charles, brother-in-laws, Earl Fagan, Alfred and Eugene Lattner, sisters-in-laws, Velma (Leonard) Healy, Lenore (Merritt) Mauzey, Grace (Jack), Kennaman, Mary Irene Lattner  and Helen (Mike) Agrella.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dubuque County Right to Life.

Special Thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill for loving and compassionate care.