Obituaries Archive

Christine M. Shireman

Our beloved Christine Mary Shireman passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, December 3rd at the age of 65.  To honor Christine’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

She was born in Dubuque, IA to Norman and Mary Shireman on April 6th, 1957, and was raised and lived in the area her entire life. She leaves behind an exceptionally dysfunctional family that she is very proud of; as well as an unfathomable amount of craft supplies, holiday decor, and knick knacks that her daughters have no idea what to do with.

Chris will be remembered for her impeccable driving (just kidding), her quick wit, creativity, and playfulness. But it was her unwavering love that has been a sustaining force for her family. A woman like no other, she lived to serve those she loved. She spent her working years as a caregiver at Ennoble Manor, Manor Care, and Luther Manor. She enjoyed smiling at babies, bedazzling things that had no business being bedazzled (amongst other crafts), binge watching daytime television, and insisting her grandkids pose for “just one more picture”. But what undoubtedly made her happiest was making memories and sharing laughs with her family.

Chris is survived by her three children (Fritz, Chandra, and Robin), fourteen grandchildren (Damien, Chelsea, Dallas, Arianna, Addison, Sara, Maddelynne, Gabriella, Kayla, Tristan, Christopher, Liam, Avalynne, and Nevaeh), five great-grandchildren (Greyson, Bradleigh, Raelynn, Jax, and Mila) two sisters (Karen and Theresa) and one brother (Ricky).

She is preceded in death by, and will be laid to rest with her parents, Norman and Mary Shireman, and her brothers Marty and Greg Shireman.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to all who cared for and supported Chris and our family throughout this difficult journey.  Her love was powerful all the way to the end and it will live on in the hearts of those who miss her, in the lives she’s touched, and in the love we share together.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to her daughter, Robin McGovern at 680 West Hope Street, Shullsburg, WI, 53586.

Online condolences for Christine’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Freda I. Lawrence

Freda I. Lawrence, 104, of Monticello passed away Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, at Monticello Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 – 10:15 am on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30 am.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.  Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery in Prairieburg.

Freda was born on May 5, 1918, in Anamosa, Iowa, the daughter of Howard and Maud (Anderson) Hart.  She graduated from Central City High School in 1936.  Freda married Leo Lawrence on February 1, 1937, in St. Joseph Church in Prairieburg.  Together they farmed near Prairieburg until 1967, when they moved to Monticello.  Freda lived in the home they built together for 51 years.  Later she moved to Pennington Square Living Center where she resided until failing health forced her to move into Monticello Nursing Home in 2021.

Survivors include her children: Ron (Kay) Lawrence of Dyersville, Larry (Susan) Lawrence of Surprise, AZ, David (Kathy) Lawrence of Omaha, NE, James (Cindy) Lawrence of Oakland, NE, grandchildren: Daniel (Carrie) Lawrence, Bradley (Lois) Lawrence, Tami (Dennis) Westhoff, Todd (Kris) Lawrence, Beth (Tom) Hurford, Matt (Cheryl) Lawrence, Brady (Erin) Atkinson, Amber (Anthony) Powers, Troy (Kriston) Lawrence; great grandchildren: Ethan, Levi, Abbi, Nathan, Ella, Brittan, Madison, Isaac, Cole, Clay, Samantha, Colton, Dani, Logan, Colin, Alyssa, Skylar, Savannah Serenity, Isabel and Cameron; great great-grandchildren: Eliza, Harper, Miles, Ruby.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband; siblings: infant twins on July 19, 1911, Merle (Lillian) Hart, Helen (John Ricklefs and Dean Mead), Dorothy (Rufus Hanken and Henry Sauer), Robert (Muriel) Hart, Donald Hart, and infant, Sara Jane Hart; in-laws: Louie (Viola) Lawrence, Guy (Nellie) Lawrence, Levona (Leo) Machart and Regina (Ted) Patnode.

The family would like to thank the staffs of Pennington Square and Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for the wonderful care and compassionate companionship over the last several years.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home,  PO Box 791, Monticello, IA  52310.

Clifford C. Davis

Clifford C. Davis, 87, of Galena, IL passed away Thursday, December 1, 2022, in Iowa City, IA after a brief illness. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Friday, December 9, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends and family may call after 10 AM, until the time of the service. Military honors will be accorded following the service by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque.

He was born on October 17, 1935, in Iowa City to Leo Hillary and Edith Helen (Taylor) Davis. He attended Holy Ghost Catholic School through the Eighth Grade. His work ethic and desire to help led him to enlist in the Navy at the age of seventeen. Clifford served during the Korean War from 1952 until his honorable discharge in 1956. He was a First-Class Petty Officer on the USS Atlas. Clifford married Mary Jane Scholl on April 27, 1957. Together they had six children. They were happily married for nearly 32 years before Mary Jane’s passing in 1989. In 1990, he met Audrey Kieffer, and they were married on May 26, 1991. They were married until she preceded him in death in 2013. After his Navy discharge, Clifford went to work at the Dubuque Stamping Company. Ultimately, he spent most of his career with the Dubuque Packing Company and then retired from FDL Foods. Clifford was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan. He loved golfing and playing cards; his favorite was euchre, and he could spend many hours playing. Clifford loved spending time with his family and socializing with his friends over a nice cup of coffee. 

He is survived by his children, Tamara (Michael) Wright, Theresa (Jeffrey) Ernst, Robert (Michalle) Davis, Mary Kay (Michael) Avenarius, Richard (Ronda)Davis, Sharon (Brian) Bird; eleven grandchildren; nineteen great-grandchildren; a sister, Madonna Merritt; and many extended family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, spouses, and five brothers Virgil, Vernon, Lawrence, Raymond, and Lyle.

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

Thomas A. Cunningham

Thomas A. “Tom” Cunningham, age 73, most recently of Galena, IL passed away suddenly at his home on December 3, 2022. Per his wishes, his body will be cremated. A gathering for friends and family will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Tom moved as a young boy to New Jersey, where he grew up. A bit of a renaissance man, Tom was a very capable city planner, attorney, artist, and writer.

He was devoted to his wife of thirty-three years Susan Lipnick, and their daughter, Kyla M. Cunningham, both of whom survive.

A founding shareholder of the St. Louis law firm of Cunningham, Vogel, and Rost, P. C., Tom moved to the Galena area in 2010. Semi-retirement beckoned, allowing Tom to develop skills in prairie and savanna restoration for the Galena Area Land Enthusiasts and the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation and on Susan’s and his own property.

Should you wish, you can make contributions to the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation or Illinois English Bulldog Rescue in memory of Tom.

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

Carol J. Leick

Carol June (Roepsch) Leick, age 84, Dubuque, passed away on Friday, December 2, 2022.

There will be a visitation from 4 pm to 7 pm on Friday, December 9th, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, Dubuque.  Mass will be at 10 am on Saturday, December 10th at St. Anthony’s Church, 1870 St. Ambrose St, Dubuque.  Rev. Steven Rosonke will officiate.  Burial will be in the Asbury Methodist Cemetery, Asbury, Iowa.

She was born on November 29, 1938, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, daughter of George N. and Frances (Lewis) Roepsch.  She attended St. Mary’s Grade School and is a 1956 graduate of East Dubuque Public High School.  She was formerly married to Melvin Leick.

Carol worked at Neisners Store and Dun & Bradstreet before starting a family.  She was a stay at home mom for fourteen years and later employed by the Iowa Department of Human Services, Child Support Recovery Unit for twenty-six years until her retirement in 2002.  She was known as a hard worker who started as a case worker and then moved up to office manager.  After retiring, she volunteered for the Child Support Recovery Unit; Meals on Wheels; St. Anthony’s Church; Dubuque Nursing and Rehabilitation and The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium.

Carol enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, children, family members and friends.  Christmas was one of her favorite times of the year.  She spent hours perfecting her tinsel covered Christmas tree and decorations.  She always baked way too many cookies and her banana and coconut crème pies were family favorites.  She also enjoyed art, music, sports and traveling.  She traveled a lot within the United States and also to several foreign countries with family members and friends.  She has over 70 coffee cups to remember these destinations by.

She is survived by four sons and three grandchildren, Daniel (Nancy) Leick and their son, Samuel (Nikki); John S. “TJ” Leick all of Dubuque and John L. (Wendy) Leick and daughter, Jocelyn and son Nolan of Aurora, Illinois and Mark Leick of Alaska.  Four brothers, “Butch” George (Dorothy) Roepsch of Dubuque, Louis (Ann) Roepsch of East Dubuque, Illinois and Edward (Kris) Roepsch of Green Lake, Wisconsin. A brother-in-law, Bill Richard of Peosta and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George N. & Frances K. (nèe Lewis) Roepsch, sister Mary (Roepsch) Richard, brother Donald and his wife Theresa Roepsch, and half-sister Rosemarie.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to foundations to end Alzheimer’s disease.

Marcella F. Klein

Marcella F. Klein, 100, of Dubuque, passed away December 2, 2022.

Visitation will be from 9:00am. Until 10:15a.m. Monday, December 5, 2022, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:30a.m., at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Rev. Brian Dellaert will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, IA.

She was born October 12, 1922 in St. Catherine’s, Iowa, the daughter of Peter and Margaret (Kass) Olinger. She married Frank Klein on June 14, 1950 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on July 26, 1999. Shirley and Millard opened their door to Marcella sixteen years ago and she has resided with them ever since.

Marcella is survived by her daughter, Shirley (Millard) Engelkins, of Dubuque; her grandchildren, Jesse (Amy Glasgow) Engelkins of Madison, WI and Jenna Engelkins of Dubuque; her great-grandchildren, Evie and Izzy Engelkins; and her sister-in-law, Isabella Steines.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Catherine (Irv)_ Wilhelm, Joe (Martha) Olinger, Leo Olinger, Mary (Elmer) Klaas, Florence Wall, Rosie (Don) McKenna, Theresa (Milford) Moore, and her infant brother, John Olinger. She was also preceded in death by her in-laws, Adella (Raymond) Legrand, Victor Klein, Norman Klein, and Lawrence Steines.

Marcella’s family would like to thank Dr. Bailey, Dr. Kelley, Hospice of Dubuque, and Luther Manor staff for their care during Marcella’s final three days, especially Amanda.

A Marcella Klein Memorial Fund has been established.

Marcella Klein, God Bless You. Her Spirit was strong, her days were blessed. If a need was found, there was always the sound of her bustling, efficient energy doing the job. Her heart was kind, she always had the time to talk and give advice. Her wisdom was like no other. Her favorite things were people she knew, her family, her friends, and me and you. Often she shared old time stories and home cooked meals. She “Prayed” always when one was in need. Her wisdom lives on in those she knew. Thank you dear mother, we will never forget you. God has you in his arms, I have you in my heart. Love, your family.

Mary Ann Fitzgerald

Mary Ann (Hornung) Fitzgerald, 81, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 2, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, IA. Mary was born in St. Mary’s, PA on November 17, 1941. She was the daughter of Harold and Helen Hornung. Family and friends will celebrate the memory of her life at Resurrection Catholic Church on Wednesday, December 7, at 11:00 a.m.  Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at the church, prior to the service.

Mary and her sister Christine, grew up mainly in Pennsylvania but also lived for a few years in Kentucky. She did well in school, excelling in science and art, and had many friends.

She graduated from Villa Maria College in Erie, PA and began a successful nursing career at Cornell Medical Center in New York City. After earning a Master’s degree in nursing, she taught nursing at both the University of Wisconsin and the University of Iowa. Mary was always an excellent and compassionate nurse.

Mary and her husband owned and operated the bed-and-breakfast, Collier Mansion in the 80’s and 90’s.

In addition, Mary was an accomplished artist, focused mainly on painting. Regularly her works were exhibited in the Dubuque area. Her home was full of her artwork, quilts she made, beautiful flowers she grew and antiques she collected. Creating a warm and inviting home for her family was very important to her.

Mary with her husband Paul and their card club friends truly enjoyed traveling the world. She was always ready to plan the next adventure! Some of the areas visited were Ireland, Australia, China, South America, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. The traveling began with her husband Paul in Colombia, South America when they were volunteers for the Catholic church. Mary and Paul’s first child, Cristin, was born there.

In addition to art and traveling, Mary especially enjoyed watching sports, both her kids and grandkids as they competed. She was an avid fan of both the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Cubs as well. A prolific reader she was always in the middle of a good book.

Finally, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend and created many wonderful memories for her children and the neighborhood kids. People were always welcome in her home, and she doted on the pets she had over the years.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents Harold and Helen Hornung,  in-laws Vincent and Mary Fitzgerald, brother-in-laws Robert Fitzgerald, and Ronald Koechell, and aunt Rita Jane Selle.

Those left to cherish Mary’s memory include her loving husband of 54 years, Paul; her sister Christine Koechell (Oshkosh), her daughter Cristin Fitzgerald (Dubuque), sons Michael Fitzgerald (Oklahoma City), and Matthew (Melissa) Fitzgerald in Omaha, NE, as well as her grandchildren, Madelyn and Ethan Day, and Samantha Fitzgerald. Also surviving Mary and close to her are her cousins Jane and Tom Lander from PA, as well as many close friends.

The family would like to especially thank her card and bridge club friends whose thoughts, prayers and visits were much appreciated.

Arthur F. Barnhart

Arthur Frederick Barnhart, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa went home to his Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 1, 2022.

A Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 5, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with Pastor David Barna officiating. Friends and family may visit from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 4th, and prior to the funeral on Monday, December 5, 2022, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory. A livestream of the funeral service will be posted on the funeral home’s Facebook page.

Burial will take place after the service in Asbury Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Arthur was born on January 9, 1927, in Guttenberg, Iowa son of Clifford F. and Bertha (Nockelby) Barnhart. He married his childhood sweetheart, Norma M. Morley, on June 14, 1947, in Guttenberg. Arthur honorably served his country in the United States Army Air Force.

Arthur enjoyed golfing, fishing, gardening, hunting, traveling and caring for his lawn. He was always excited for a good game of euchre and spending time with his family and friends. He was such a blessing to all who knew him.

Arthur is survived by his children Terry Barnhart of Dubuque, IA, LaNae (Gary) Rath of Hazel Green, WI, and Twila (Terry) Mosher of Ankeny, IA; grandchildren David (Rachel) Barnhart, Jayme (Becky) Barnhart, Aaron (Karen) Rath, Ryan (Rachel) Mosher, and Amy (Michael) Lohman; great-grandchildren Sam, Sydney, Alyssa, Blake, Alexis, Emily, Amber, Jordyn, Jack, Jace and Oliver; sister Donna Aude of Clinton, IA, brother Paul (Wilma) Barnhart of Garnavillo, IA; and sisters-in-law Fonda Wittman and Judy Yost, both of Dubuque, IA.

Arthur was preceded in death by his loving wife Norma, his parents Clifford and Bertha and his brother Duane Barnhart.

Memorial gifts may be directed to the Arthur F. Barnhart Memorial Fund.

The family would like to give a big thank-you to the entire staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their love and support of Art.

Michael J. McCarron

Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother – Michael J. McCarron died peacefully at the age of 90 in Dubuque, Iowa, where he lived nearly his entire life with his wife Marilynn and their ten children.

He and Marilynn (“Mar”) met in San Francisco, where Marilynn grew up and where he was stationed in the Army. They met at the roller rink on the beach in San Francisco, and one of their favorite things to do was roller skate.  Watching them skate together was amazing—it was dancing at its best.

Dad was an avid beekeeper.  He had several beehives in the back yard and enlisted some of us in lending a hand with maintenance of the hives, extraction of the honey from the honeycomb and selling the honey at the local Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings. A lover of gardening, he tried his hand at raising Iris, Gladiolus and Lilies.  He and Marilynn attended many beekeeper’s and National Iris and Lily meetings. He was a proud member of the Local Beekeeper’s Society and The National Lily Society.

He was a great practical joker—he delighted in playing silly practical jokes—Notably the “Glass Jar” game which he delighted in playing with his kids and grandkids.

We all have finest memories of car rides on summer evenings followed by a stop at Dairy Queen for ice cream or the A&W for root beer.  Sunday mornings with homemade donuts or pancakes that Dad made.  Christmas tree hunting on someone’s farm was always fun.

He is survived by his 10 children: Julie McCarron (Key West FL), Kevin (Bend OR), Michaelynn (Minneapolis MN), Hugh (Dubuque IA), Jeff (Dubuque IA), Kim Selwood (nee McCarron) (Philadelphia PA), Tim (Minneapolis MN), Bryan (Dubuque IA), Mike (Baraboo WI) and Melissa Knapp (nee McCarron) (Cascade, IA).

He is also survived by his sister Therese Lampe (nee McCarron) (Bettendorf, IA) and his brother Kevin (Marion, IA), as well as a number of grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

I think Dad would say: “I’m in fat city” now.

On December 10, 2022, at 10:00 am a Funeral Mass will be held at St. Columbkille’s Church with burial to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  No visitation will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers and other memorial gifts please make a donation to the local prostate cancer survivors group.

Sr. Mary Klisart, OSF

Sister Mary (Gustave) Klisart, OSF, 89 of the Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 12:55 a.m. Friday, December 2, 2022 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. Monday, December 5, 2022.  Masks will be required. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Sister was born on January 7, 1933 in Ossian, IA the daughter of Gustave and Catherine (Kass) Klisart.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1951 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1957.  Sister received her master’s degrees in theology from St. Mary’s of California, Morage, CA. She ministered as a teacher in Iowa at New Hampton, Manchester, Ossian, Petersburg, Holy Ghost, Dubuque, and Sacred Heart, Sioux City; and Midlothian, IL; Portland, OR; and Minneapolis, MN. She was also missioned in Iowa as a Pastoral Minister in Jesup, Manchester, Ryan, St. Patrick and West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids.

Sister is survived by her sister Lois (Robert) Sharp; sisters-in-law Lorna Klisart and Jacqueline Klisart;  nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Jane Long; and her brothers, Luke Klisart, Mel Klisart, and Joel (Elaine) Klisart.

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, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Edmund F. Stecklein

Edmund F. Stecklein, 80, of Monticello, Iowa passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s disease on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 – 10:45 am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11 am on Friday, December 16, 2022. https://www.facebook.com/KramerFuneral

Edmund Francis Stecklein was born on October 8, 1942. He was the tenth child of Edmund R. Stecklein and Martina M. (Kurt) Stecklein. Ed attended St. Mary’s High School and played basketball and baseball for the school’s teams. After his high school graduation in 1961, Ed became a certified electrician and worked for Franklin Equipment in Monticello. During that time, he played first base for the Cascade Reds town baseball team. He later moved to Durant, Iowa, where he serviced milk machines. In the late 1960s he returned to Cascade to become a feed salesman for Moorman’s Feed Company, where he served farm families from Jones County. On December 30, 1972, he married Shirley K. DeShaw, originally of Hopkinton, Iowa, at St. Mary’s Church in Cascade, Iowa. The couple were together fifty years and were preparing to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary at the time of his death. During the 1970s, Ed served as the coach of the Office Playgirls softball team, with Shirley playing first base. The couple were joined by a son, Jason J. Stecklein, and a daughter, Heather J. Stecklein. The family took road trip vacations together every summer. Ed traveled to 47 American states and visited Canada and Europe multiple times. Ed’s second career was as a correctional officer at the Iowa Men’s Reformatory/Anamosa State Penitentiary. After 27 years in that position, he retired in 2008 to spend more time with his granddaughters. During his retirement, Ed and Shirley enjoyed traveling to visit their granddaughters and participating in group bus trips throughout the Midwest. Ed was well-known as a sports fan who faithfully watched Monticello Panthers, Iowa Hawkeyes, Indianapolis Colts, and Chicago White Sox games. His sports knowledge was extensive, and he frequently won the weekly sports prediction brackets in the Monticello Express. Ed also enjoyed time outdoors, including wildlife watching, hunting, fishing, foraging, and tending to the trees and gardens he planted on his property.

He is survived by his wife Shirley Stecklein of Monticello; his son, Jason Stecklein of Dubuque; his daughter, Heather (Geoff Osterhaus) Stecklein of Menomonie, WI; and his granddaughters, Jordan Lester (Matt) Rogalski of Chicago, IL, Mia Osterhaus of Menomonie, WI, and Ella Stecklein of Menomonie, WI. He is also survived by his sisters, Shirley Hoffmann of Cascade and Judi (Al) Westhoff of Portland, OR; a brother, Rollie (Theresa) Stecklein of Cascade; numerous in-laws including Jim Goblirsch of Sleepy Eye, MN, Marian Stecklein of Bellevue and Barbara Stecklein of Cascade; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Mary Eileen Stecklein, Madonna (Bill Otting and Roger Tucker) Otting Tucker, Marina (Elmer) Lehmann, and Jane Goblirsch; his brothers, Clem Stecklein and Lloyd Stecklein; and numerous in-laws including Gene Hoffmann.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Sacred Heart Elementary School in Monticello, Iowa.

Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, IA  52310

Ronald J. Nickolas Sr

Ronald James “Nick” Nickolas Sr, 80, of Dubuque, IA passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, Nov 19, 2022.

At Nick’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial service, however there will be a celebration of life at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Nick was born on August 8, 1942, in Manitowoc, WI the son of Arnold Nickolas & Dorothy Heise.

He married Sharon Buxton on August 11, 1962, at St Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dubuque. Nick started his landscaping career at Wagner Nursery, eventually opening his own business, Nickolas Landscaping.  He operated his business for many years before moving to California in 1999 and becoming a Land Surveyor until retirement, where he then returned home to Dubuque.

Nick raised his sons and daughter to know what hard work looks like – from setting pins to landscaping to his own landscape company and even land surveying.  Nick made friends everywhere he went.  He was an avid bowler, and loved golfing, playing cards, spending time with friends at the clubhouse and moose lodge.  He enjoyed Sunday breakfast with family, and spending time with grandkids.

Nick is survived by his wife Sharon; his children: Ronald “Chuck” (Janelle) Nickolas, of Durango, IA, Kevin (Wendy) Nickolas of Tracy, CA, Lisa (Steve) Hunn of Livermore, CA, Mark “Couse” (Rhonda) Nickolas, of Dubuque, IA. his grandkids: Tim (Megan), Nathan, Leah, Alexa, Mitchell, Collin, Alex (Ashley), Brandy, Shaylee and Malethia his great-grandkids: Harper Spautz, Eli Nickolas, Alyza , Noalyn, and Athylian. His nephew, Mike Duffy, who was like a brother; brothers and sisters-in-law: Karen Nickolas, Sherry Buxton, Gary (Suzy) Buxton, & Mark Buxton along with many nieces and nephews.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Arnold Nickolas Jr., Lois (Paul) Dillon, Barb (Clarence) Duffy. His sister-in-law Sydney (Bill) Weichel and Brother-in-law Ronald Buxton.

Memorial donations may be made in his name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Elvera A. Kroeger

Elvera A. Kroeger, 92, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, December 1, 2022, at her home surrounded by love.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9-10 am Monday prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am on Monday, Dec. 5, 2022, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Vera was born on April 22, 1930, in Dyersville, the daughter of Alfred and Rose Klostermann. She grew up in the original farmhouse and walked to the country school. Vera spent time with her siblings before and after school on farm chores and spent many evenings playing games and making music. She met the love of her life and future husband, Gary Kroeger at her brother Art’s farm.  Gary had immigrated from Germany, and Vera assisted him with the intricacies of English language and studying for the citizenship exam. They were married in 1953 and raised six children.  In addition to raising children, Vera was a bus driver for 20+ years, and worked at Kroeger Body Shop well into her 80’s. Many afternoons were spent with lifelong friends laughing and sharing stories while playing cards (Euchre, Solo, and Horse-Deal).  Her adventurous spirit led her to places such as Australia, Germany, Belize, and Ireland. A favorite activity included teaching grandkids to play cards, and they were rewarded with ice cream treats well after bedtime hours.

urvivors include her children: Carol (Bob) Engelken of Center Point, Richard (Dawn) Kroeger, Kathy (Dave) Krapfl, both of Dyersville, Kenneth (Laura) Kroeger of Lakeville, MN, Sandy (Wayne) Stelken of Dyersville, and Lisa (Chris) Reid of Atkins; grandchildren: Kristin (Jason) Comer, Nina (Cory) Letts, Krystal Engelken, Patric (Ashley) Engelken, Rachel (Jacob) Mack, Sarah (JT) Ketelaar, Jason Kroeger, Kurt (Rachel) Krapfl, Matt (Stacy Kimbell) Krapfl, Kaylee Krapfl, Ellen (Neil) Becknal, Jenna (Matt) O’Rourke, Sean (Nicki) Stelken, Tim Stelken, Jacob and Dylan Reid; 16 great grandchildren; a sister, Lila Clemen of Dyersville, and a sister-in-law, Mary Kroeger of Guttenberg and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Gary in 1990, siblings: Rita (Raymond) Deutmeyer, Alfred (Lorraine) Klostermann, Art (Verna) Klosterman, Ruth (Joe) Lansing, and a sister, Virginia, in infancy; in-laws: Vince Clemen, Heinrich, Wilhelm, Herman, Johann, Theodor “Ted”, Josef and Anna Kroger, Margarete Wosthaus, Thekla Neeland, and three in infancy.

Special thank you to Dr. Ryan Stille and Hospice of Dubuque, hospice nurse Kelli.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Samuel J. Puccio, Jr.

Samuel J. “Sam” Puccio, Jr., age 54, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on November 30, 2022, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Sam’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sam’s family.

Sam was born on December 4, 1967, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Samuel J. Puccio, Sr. and Luetta M. (Hall-Puccio) Wolfinger.  He was born and raised to appreciate the value of strong family bonds and caring for others.  Sam met his soul-mate, Tracy Tittle, when they were in school and eventually were united in marriage in the July of 1990.  They have been blessed with four children of their own and many wonderful years together.  Sam worked on the clean-up crew at FDL Foods for many years, and helped raise greyhounds in his free-time as well.  He also enjoyed working on vehicles from time to time over the years.  Sam was well-known for his heart of gold and generosity for those in need, often opening his own home to those who just needed a little hand up in life.  But, all in all, Sam was a family man at heart.  His wife, children, grandchildren, siblings, and all other family were where he found true contentment.  If family was around, Sam was sure to be in his happy place.  We will miss our dear Sam more than words could accurately convey, but we are eternally grateful for the time we had with him.  May the memories which he leaves behind help to comfort all who knew and loved him through the difficult days ahead.  Thank you, Sam, for simply being you and may you find peace in the arms of our loving Lord until we all see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sam include,

his loving bride of 32 years,
Tracy Puccio, Dubuque, IA;

his four sons,
Samuel J. (Karissa) Puccio, III, Dubuque, IA,
Dakota M. (Majidah) Puccio, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph A. (Carmen) Puccio, Dubuque, IA,
and Alex J. (Zoe) Puccio, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Elizabeth, Samuel IV, Cohen, Avery, Na’imah, Nasreen, Naveed, Joseph Jr., Sawyer, and Noah;

his mother,
Luetta M. (Jerry) Wolfinger, OH;

his siblings,
Penny (Brian) Hall, FL,
Jody (Tim) Johnston, Hazel Green, WI,
and Scott (Stacy) Puccio, Dubuque, IA;

his step-siblings,
Teresa (Kevin) Coady, OH,
Tammy (Ralph) Polletta, OH,
Andy (Cathi) Wolfinger, OH,
Tony Wolfinger, Chicago, IL;

his father-in-law,
Richard (Tina) Tittle, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sister-in-law,
Rick (Ann) Tittle, Dubuque, IA,
Kevin Tittle, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Cary) Tittle, Fort Wayne, IN,
Chuck (Andrea) Tittle, Dubuque, IA,
Tiffany Willy, Dubuque, IA,
and Terry Brosius, Dubuque, IA;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Sam was preceded in death by his father; his mother-in-law, Sandra Heming; his sister-in-law, Brenda Brosius; along with his aunt Darlene, and his uncle, Joseph Puccio.

Sam’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at St. Croix Hospice, especially Jenni, Amanda, Tessa, and Pat for all of their care and support.

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

Joseph D. Behnke

Joseph D. “Joe’ Behnke, age 83, of Hazel Green, WI, completed his earthly journey on November 30, 2022, at home while surrounded by his loving family and constant companion, Bud.  To honor Joe’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joe’s family.

Joe was born on April 15, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, to Herman and Ruth (Frommelt) Behnke.  Joe was a man who was loved by everyone he met and always enjoyed living a simple life, but most importantly on his terms.  He was united in marriage to Joy K. VanVleck on December 27, 1958.  Together they raised a family of their own which brought them great joy watching them grow up and start their own families.  Sadly, Joy was called home ahead of him by many years, but her presence remained in his heart.  Joe was a pressman at Gartner Printing Co. for 45 years and finished out his working years at Key City Recycling until he finally retired.  He enjoyed the quiet life at that point, but never passed up a chance to do a little fishing or camping whenever the opportunity arose.  But, truth be known, Joe’s greatest joy in this life was when his family, and especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren were by his side.  Any gathering of the family would suffice as a perfect day in Joe’s eyes.  We will miss Joe and his unique attitude moving forward, but will be forever grateful for the years he proudly served as our patriarch.  Thank you, Dad, for continually reminding us that life is what we make it and keeping it simple can be the greatest choice of all.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joe include,

his children,
Carrie Kinsley, IL,
Mark (Dee) Behnke, Littleton, CO,
Sally (Dan) Francois, Dubuque, IA,
Sue (Clayton) Behnke, Ganesville, TX,
Mike (Lisa) Behnke, Farley, IA,
and Joe (Brenda) Frick, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren
Stephanie (Tony), Taylor (Brandon), Joe, Colleen (Kevin), Scott, Terry (Tiffany), Laura (Brian), Gina, Bailey, Amber (Justin), Katie (Nathan), Abby (Isaac), and Libby;

his great-grandchildren,
Chloe, Jake, Jaxson, Logan, Mickenzy, Eli, Edith, Leah, Kahli, Brynlee, Madison, Piper, Roen, Crew, Madilyn, Charlotte, Cecelia, Paisley, and Sylvie;

his brother,
Bob (Shirley) Behnke, Dubuque, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Joyce Sanders, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous other family, friends, and neighbors.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joy K. Behnke; and his sisters, Diane Frick, Rita Kipper, and Mary Weyart.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Katie G and Stephanie, for their professional and compassionate care and for graciously accommodating Joe’s lifestyle and preferences.

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