Obituaries Archive

Jennie R. Davis

Jennie R. Davis, of Davenport, and formerly of Maquoketa, IA passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, IA.

Born Jennie Rae Brinkman on January 19, 1960 in Maquoketa, she was the daughter of Raymond “Ike” Brinkman and Laura Ann (Weasmer) Brinkman. As a graduate of Lost Nation High School, class of 1978, she continued her education at Scott Community College, Cape Cod Community College, and then later the University of Iowa.

Throughout her life, Jennie was involved in various associations. In her younger years, she was an active member of Rainbow Girls and 4-H, where she developed friendships that lasted a lifetime. Jennie’s love for gardening, livestock farming, concerts and travel spoke to her adventurous spirit.

On June 19, 2010, Jennie married the love of her life, Jeffery “Jeff” Davis in Lost Nation. Their union was a source of great happiness and companionship until Jeff’s passing on December 3, 2019. Together, they created a blended family that was a cornerstone of Jennie’s life.

Jennie retired from the Rock Island Arsenal in December of 2022 as the Chief of Army Civilian Personnel at 1st Army. She spent her time retired as a cherished mother, grandmother and friend.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Bryce (Megan Miller) Perry, of Lost Nation, and Abigail (Eric Atwater) Perry, of Davenport. Her “bonus” children include Sandra Kloos of Maquoketa, Susannah Davis of Oxford Junction, and Brian (Lawrence) Davis of Maquoketa; and her three adored grandchildren, Kinsley and Kamden Perry, and Caeden Atwater; many step-grandchildren and a few great-grandchildren. Also mourning her loss is her best friend of over 50 years, Barb Clawson.

Jennie’s parents and her beloved husband, Jeffery, preceded her in death.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating her life will be held at a later date. Burial will be at the Massillon, Iowa Cemetery. At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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

Patrick W. Fier

Patrick W. “Pat” Fier, 68, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Patrick William Fier was born on January 19, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Lawrence and Arlene (Lindstrom) Fier.  He was raised on the Fier farm east of Maquoketa.  He graduated from Maquoketa Community High School in 1975, and received his Associate’s Degree from Muscatine Community College in 1978.  He attended and graduated from the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy in 1991.  He married Christie Mohr in 1982.  They had three children, Emily, Travis, and Kelly.

Patrick worked for the City of Maquoketa as a Police Officer for 27 years, retiring in 2017.  He and his wife also owned and operated Pat Fier Painting, LLC in Maquoketa.

Patrick was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping.  He was a longtime member of the Maquoketa Valley Izaak Walton League, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sacred Heart men’s choir, Knights of Columbus Council #8269, and the Coronado Car Club.

Patrick’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Christie Fier of Maquoketa, IA; children, Emily (Mark) Walsh, Travis (Michelle) Gavin, and Kelly Taylor; 7 grandchildren, Alexis (Gunnar) Borushaski, Travis (Janna) Walsh, Avery Gavin, Paisley Gavin, Sydney Taylor, Bryce Taylor, and Ryley Galloway; 2 great-grandchildren, Markus Borushaski and Liam Borushaski; 2 brothers, Gary (Marianne) Fier of Clinton, IA, and Al (Cindy) Fier of Maquoketa, IA; 3 sisters, Linda Peck of Clinton, IA, Kathy (Don) Kunde of Maquoketa, IA, and Shelley (Joe) Heinrich of Maquoketa, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, several aunts and uncles, and a brother-in-law Ray Peck.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Friday, March 7, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Patrick W. “Pat” Fier memorial fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

George E. Lawver

George E. Lawver, 69, of Rickardsville died Thursday, February 27, 2025.  Visitation will be from 3 to 4 pm Monday, March 3 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home followed by a memorial service at 4 pm.

George was born January 23, 1956 in Ashland, Wisconsin, son of Melvin and Ethel (Poppe) Lawver.  He graduated from Mellen High School, Mellen, Wisconsin.

He loved the rodeo and spending time outdoors hunting, fishing and gardening.  He also loved spending time with his grandchildren.

George is survived by his wife of 47 years, Jeannine Lawver of Rickardsville; two sons, Brandon of Marion, Iowa and Neil (Alyssa) of Rickardsille; grandchildren, Clara, Damon, and William; mother in law, Evelyn Gurske of Rickardsville; brother in law, Jay Gurske of Holy Cross, and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Damon; and father in law, William Gurske.

Alvin E. Barten

Alvin E. Barten, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his family on Friday morning, February 28, 2025, at home.

Alvin Elmer Barten was born on May 25, 1945 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Elmer Henry and Minnie Catherine (Clark) Barten. He was a graduate of Andrew High School and served his country in the U.S. Army Reserves.  He married Vera Elaine Bock on July 17, 1966 in Elwood, Iowa. Their loving union was blessed with two children, Lori and Scott, who brought immense joy to his life.

Professionally, Alvin was known for his exceptional skill as a mechanic. His passion for automobiles led him to own and operate Barten Auto Sales in Maquoketa for 45 years. His expertise and honest service earned him the respect and trust of the community. Alvin also shared his talents in the real estate industry, working for several years with area realtors.

Alvin’s life was marked by his dedication to his community. His civic engagement was evident through his ten years of service as a Maquoketa City Councilman, where he made impactful contributions to the betterment of his hometown. Alvin had been a member of the Iowa Independent Auto Dealers Association and the Coronado Car Club, where he connected with fellow car enthusiasts.

His interests were a reflection of his character—generous, and always willing to lend a hand. Alvin loved working on cars, particularly racing cars for family and friends, and his expertise was sought after by many. His hands were rarely still, as he was always tinkering with projects, finding joy in the challenge of repair and restoration. Alvin’s love for treasure hunting was evident in his enjoyment of garage sales, flea markets, and auctions, where he often found hidden gems.

Alvin’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Vera Barten of Maquoketa, IA; his daughter and son-in-law, Lori and Marvin Massey of Maquoketa, IA; his four grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and eight step-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Ester Weirup, Marcella Heneke, and Violet “Vi” (Ron) Yeager, all of Maquoketa, IA; his sister-in-law, Patricia Weirup of Maquoketa, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, son Scott Barten on March 4, 2018, and two brothers-in-law Vernon Weirup and Larry Heneke.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation, and burial will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family or Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Lyle D. Clark

Lyle Dean Clark, 64, of rural Cascade, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at the Jones County Regional Medical Center, Anamosa, Iowa.

Dean was born on December 19, 1960, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to William “Bill” and Lois (O’Hearn) Clark.  He graduated from Midland High School in Wyoming, Iowa.  Dean married Lee Ann Carr on November 18, 2000, in Monmouth, Iowa.

Dean was a farmer and especially loved his cows.  He also worked for Caterpillar for a time, for Wyoming Veterinary Clinic, and later on Rolling Hills Veterinary in Cascade.  When he wasn’t hard at work, you could find him on side-by-side rides or spending time with his family and friends.

Those left to honor Dean’s memory include his wife Lee Ann Clark of rural Cascade, Iowa; his daughter Jessica (Codey) Current of Monmouth, Iowa; step children, Chris (Sarah) Streets of Monmouth, Kirt (Becky) Caes of Greeley, Iowa, Carol (Neil) Caes of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Sheila  (Todd) Caes of Ozark, Iowa; sisters, Wanda Pep Tracy, Debbie (Randy) Gile, Brenda (Mike) Meade, and Geraldine (Allen) Archer; his grandchildren, Cora, Brady, Will, Casen, Tallen, Lilly and Mae; and was expecting his first great grandchild.

Dean was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Billy Clark and Gary Usher, and a brother-in-law Richard Tracy.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private family graveside service will follow visitation.

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

Eileen L. Scherrman

Eileen L. “Jody” Scherrman, of Farley, Iowa, passed away, Monday, February 24, 2025 at the University of Iowa Hospital after a sudden illness.

Eileen was born November 7, 1946 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, daughter of Donald C. and Mary L. (Hannan) Gerber.  She was a graduate of Winona State University in Winona, Minnesota.  On August 8, 1970 she was united in marriage to Paul Scherrman in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Eileen’s career demonstrated a dedication to public service and her community. She was a teacher at Western Dubuque and a librarian at the Dubuque County Library. She also served on the Farley City Council and Dubuque County Library Board for several years.

Eileen was a proud and outspoken Democrat and proud of her Irish heritage.  She had several hobbies: She was an avid reader who filled the Scherrmans’ home with books; she was a remarkable cook always searching for the best recipes; she was a lover of Scottish Terriers, including the family dog Darby, as well as all creatures.  She was always excited to watch her granddaughter perform. She grew to love baseball – especially the Cubs, Farley Hawks, and most of all her grandsons’ games.

Eileen was a warm and kind soul, with an infectious smile, who was the life of the party. She loved gathering with friends and family, never missed an opportunity to dance, loved music and traveling. Most recently, she took the trip of a lifetime with Paul, her children, and grandchildren to England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Eileen is survived by her husband, Paul of Farley, Iowa; her four children, John P. and his wife Patricia (“Tricia”) Scherrman of Wheaton, Illinois and their children Matthew, Molly Mae, and Luke; Mike Scherrman of Dubuque, Iowa; Rob and Jennifer Scherrman of Monticello, Iowa and their kids, Gabe, A.J., and Katelynn; and Molly Scherrman and her partner Renner Walker of Brooklyn, New York; her brothers, Patrick and his wife Kandy Gerber of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Jim and his wife Nancy Gerber of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Tim and his wife Deb Gerber of St. Paul, Minnesota; and Kathy and her husband Gary Magnuson of Minneapolis, Minnesota; her in-laws Tom Scherrman and his wife Deb of Iowa City, Iowa; Brenda Middleton and her husband Jeff of Gans, Oklahoma; and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.

Per Eileen’s wishes a private family visitation will be held at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa. A Celebration of Life for Eileen will be held on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at the Field of Dreams from 2:00 – 5:00pm.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com.

Jane F. Staver

Jane F. Staver, 85, of Galena, IL, passed away Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at MercyOne, Dubuque, IA, surrounded by her loving family. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10:30 AM until the time of mass. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where a parish rosary will begin at 3:30 PM, followed by the Catholic Daughters of America service. The burial will be in the church cemetery.

She was born May 4, 1939, in Dubuque, the daughter of Alfred “Pete” and Marie (Martin) Bailey. Jane graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1956. She was united in marriage to Richard “Dick” Staver on May 30, 1961, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and he preceded her in death on June 3, 1983. A devoted community member, Jane was active in the Catholic Daughters Court Isabella, the Altar and Rosary Society, and numerous charitable organizations. She was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a passionate fan of the Chicago White Sox, Boston Celtics, and Notre Dame sports. Jane cherished time spent with her family, whether attending her grandchildren’s school events or embarking on memorable “road trips” with her daughters.

Jane is survived by her children: Thomas (Julie) Staver of Galena, Ruth (Brian) Hector of Evergreen Park, IL, Patricia (Joseph) Taken of Springfield, MO, and Robert Staver of Dixon, IL. She also leaves behind her sister, Ann Brotzman, eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Richard; and her brother-in-law, Marvin Brotzman.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Wells and the dedicated staff at Midwest Medical Center for their compassionate care.

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

Michael E. Gabriel

Michael E. “Gibbs” Gabriel, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 24, 2025.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Dennys Lux Club on Friday, February 28, 2025 at 5 p.m. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Michael was born on August 24, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Leon and Bea (Frommelt) Gabriel. In 1971, he married Barbara Bell.

Michael was a firefighter for 29 years, serving as president of the Fire Fighters Union.

Michael had a lifelong passion for football, playing at both the University of Northern Iowa and the University of Dubuque. His love for the game continued as a dedicated coach at Wahlert High School, where he mentored young athletes—including his own son, Michael, and grandson, Drake, in Pop Warner football.

He had immense pride in watching his grandson, Drake, excel both on and off the field. He was able to see his Grandson set receiving records at Western Dubuque high-school and Wartburg College. He also enjoyed watching his granddaughter, Ella, play volleyball. Michael’s greatest joy was his grandchildren, he was a devoted grandfather and supporter of all their endeavors. Michael was a loyal friend and protective Dad.

Michael enjoyed playing poker with his friends, golfing and reading. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

He is survived by his wife, Barb ; son, Michael (Claudia), and daughter, Heather Gabriel; grandchildren, Drake George, Ella Schulte and Mikey Gabriel; sister, Sandy (Joe) Vandermillen and brother, Pat (Mary) Gabriel, all of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and several close friends.

A Michael Gabriel Memorial Fund has been established.

Special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff on the 5th floor at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital for your compassionate care.

Shirley A. Schmit

Shirley Anne (Stonskas) Schmit, 66, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 1:00- 4:00 p.m., Saturday, March 1, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, where a memorial service will begin at 4:00 p.m. Burial will be held at a later date.

Shirley was born on August 31, 1958, in Dubuque, beloved daughter of Robert and Shirley (McLennan) Stonskas.

A lifelong learner with a passion for education, she earned her Master’s in Education from Loras College and dedicated her career to teaching in the Dubuque community.

Shirley lived life with a fun-loving spirit and a big heart, especially for her beloved pets. She adored her cats and was always kind to animals. She was a fun aunt, her nieces have cherished memories of sleepovers at her house, complete with movies and popcorn. She loved swimming and spending time at her parents’ pool. She enjoyed going out to dinner with family and friends. She was a fan of Walker, Texas Ranger and true crime shows.

She is survived by her siblings, Roxanne (John) Klaas, Merry (Bill) Lange, Bob (Lori) Stonskas Jr., all of Dubuque and Pete (Sarah) Stonskas of Park View, IA; many nieces and nephews; and two aunts, Georgie O’ Brien of East Dubuque, IL and Pearly Seibert, of Manchester, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A Shirley Schmit Memorial Fund has been established.

Special thank you to the nurses and staff at Sunnycrest Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Jay M. Rollinger

Jay Michael Rollinger, 62, a cherished husband, father, papa, son, and brother, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 25, 2025, in Bettendorf, Iowa, after a courageous battle with ALS.

Jay was born on January 5, 1963, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Joseph Michael and Janet Lorraine (Riley) Rollinger.  He grew up in the close-knit community of Maquoketa, where he formed lifelong friendships and developed a love for the outdoors. He graduated from Maquoketa Community High School in 1981 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Iowa in 1986.

He married the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Khristine A. Croce on November 29, 1986, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Together they raised four wonderful children, Sarah, Amy, Lucas, and Blake.

Professionally, Jay was dedicated and hardworking. He began his career as a Park Ranger for the Army Corps of Engineers, which allowed him to share his passion for nature with others. He later found his calling with the United States Postal Service in Davenport, where he retired in 2023 after 30 years of service as a member of the NALC Branch #506.

He loved being outdoors and traveling, especially to National Parks.  He also enjoyed feeding the birds and looked forward to each spring watching for an Oriole and Wren.  He was a collector of Wheat Pennies, and was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and the Rams (no matter what city they were in!).

Those left to honor his memory include his devoted wife, Khristy Rollinger of Bettendorf, IA; children, Sarah (Ryan) Farnsworth of Iowa City, IA, Amy (Eric) Andrew of Bettendorf, IA, Lucas (Kenzie) Rollinger of Davenport, IA, and Blake Rollinger of Bettendorf, IA; his mother, Janet Rollinger of Maquoketa, IA; 6 grandchildren (with one on the way), Cooper Farnsworth, Emilia Andrew, Mason Andrew, Crue Farnsworth, Madelyn Andrew, and Cameron Rollinger; and siblings, Jane (John) Cook of Boone, IA, Jill (David) Files of Carmi, IL, Joel (Joni) Rollinger of Decorah, IA, and John (Kim) Rollinger of Ankeny, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his father Joseph Rollinger on July 10, 2020

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Jay M. Rollinger Family, c/o of Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa.  52060.

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

Carol A. Baumann

Carol Ann Baumann, 71, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, February 22, 2025, at home.

Services will be held on March 8, 2025, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1755 Delhi St, Dubuque, IA 52001.  Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM, with the funeral service beginning at 10:30 AM.  A luncheon will follow the service.  Interment will be held at a later date at Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Harvard, Illinois.

Carol was born March 27, 1953 in Berwyn, Illinois, the daughter of Clifford W. and Dorothy A. (Guetschow) Baumann. She graduated from Thornton Township High School in Harvey, IL, and went on to earn her B.A. in Art Education from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL. Carol earned her Masters from Clarke College in Dubuque. Her career was spent teaching Art and Technology at East Dubuque Schools.

She was a beloved member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Dubuque, where she enjoyed serving and using her gifts in many ways. This included singing in the choir, serving as a Stephen Minister, baking treats for blood drives, designing windows for the church, helping with food giveaways, and teaching songs to the children in Noah’s Ark preschool.

Carol was a member of the Dubuque Chorale, and enjoyed lunches with her retired teacher friends. Gardening was a passion of Carol’s, as she used her artistic skills in planting for color and texture.

Carol is survived by her sister, Cindy (Mark) Anderson, of Rochester, IL, their children, Allison (Jeff) Gross, of Chandler, AZ, and Jeff (Anne) Anderson and their daughter, Eleanor, all of Palatine, IL; her sister, Ruth (Tim) Lewis, of Hudson, WI; an aunt and uncle, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Carol’s family requests no flowers. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.

Mina M. Theisen

Annette P. Waller

Annette Patricia Waller, 87, of La Motte, Iowa, passed away on February 18th, 2025, at her home. 

No services will be held.

Annette was born on November 15, 1937, in Hopkinton, Iowa.  The daughter of Theodore “Ted” and Mary “Molly” (Harm) Osterkamp.  She married Wayne Waller.  She was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandma, and friend.  She worked hard throughout her life. From growing up on a dairy farm to marrying a dairy farmer.  Annette worked on the dairy farm alongside her husband from the age of 19.  She enjoyed horseback riding, taking care of her home, and gardening. 

She is survived by her son Tim (Karen) Waller, daughter Amy (Stan) Pfeiler, grandson Codey Waller, granddaughter Shania (Peterson) Kinywa, great grandkids Wayne Kinywa, and Wairimu Kinywa, granddaughter Sierra Waller, brother Jimmy (Pat) Osterkamp, sisters-in-law, Alice Osterkamp, Audrey Waller, Alberta Waller, and Joan Waller. 

Preceded in death by her parents Theodore and Mary Osterkamp, husband Wayne Waller, five brothers Albert Osterkamp, Carl Osterkamp, Harry (Gerline) Osterkamp, Matthew (Silvia) Osterkamp, and Billy (Joyce) Osterkamp, two sisters Loretta (Jack) Watters and Mary (Herman) Gansemer, sister-in-law Millie (Freddy) Neumeister, brothers-in-law Raymond Waller, Dave Waller, Eldon (Irene) Waller, Cliff (Jenny) Waller, Clarence Waller, and Robert (Connie) Waller.

 Thank you to the Mercy Hospital Nurses and Doctors who provided her care, Leonard Funeral Home, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care.

Tom Lucas

Tom Lucas, 80, of Dyersville, IA, passed away unexpectedly on February 25, 2025. Born on September 25, 1944, in Dyersville, Tom led a life dedicated to his wife, family, friends, career, and community.

Tom served his country in the United States Air Force before graduating from Loras College in 1969. On June 29, 1968, he married the love of his life, Ruth Ann Trussoni, in Genoa, WI. Together, they shared 56 years of marriage, raising a loving family.

A highly respected figure in the banking industry, Tom dedicated his career to Fidelity Bank and Trust, where he served as President and CEO.  Upon his retirement, he continued to sit on the board of directors.  He was an active member of several organizations, including the American Legion, the Knights of Columbus, and the Iowa Bankers Association.

Tom is survived by his wife, Ruth; his children, Chris (Britgne) Lucas of Des Moines; and Heather (Hank) Frakes of Purcellville, VA; and his grandchildren, Gabby Lucas, Tom Lucas, Henry Frakes, Estella Frakes, Lucy Frakes, Natalie Frakes, and Peter Frakes. He leaves behind his siblings and in-laws: Judy Vonderhaar of New Vienna; Mark (Jen Stansberry) Lucas of Coralville; John (Bev) Lucas of Sherrill; Joe (Michele) Lucas of Lake St. Louis, MO; Dan (Angie Phillips) Lucas of Minneapolis, MN; Carrie Schmitt of Rickardsville; Connie (Leon) Jaeger of Dubuque; and Barb Lucas of Iowa City, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He is also survived by stepsiblings and their spouses: Al (Jeanne) Kluesner of Dubuque; Peter (Karen) Kluesner of New Vienna; Duane (Mae) Kluesner of Holy Cross; Chuck (Donna) Kluesner of Peosta; and Sherri (Ron) Hogan of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Dolores (Meinen) Lucas; his stepmother, Dorothy Kluesner-Lucas; his brothers-in-law, Mike Schmitt and John Vonderhaar; and his step-sisters-in-law, Cathy Kluesner and Jean Kluesner.

Tom will be remembered for his kindness and integrity and leaves behind a legacy of love and service.  His favorite activities in retirement were his beloved horses and ranch, attending daily Mass, meeting up with his coffee friends afterwards and serving in the American Legion.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Xavier Catholic School or Beckman Catholic School in Tom’s honor.

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 28, 2025, from 4 – 8 p.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue on Saturday March 1, 2025, from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home prior to a Funeral Mass which will be held at St Francis Basilica in Dyersville at 10:30 a.m., with burial to follow at St Francis Xavier Cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Marilyn Feye

Marilyn “Mert” Feye, 90, of Dubuque, passed away February 23, 2025. Visitation will be from 10:00-10:45a.m., Thursday, February 27, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11:00a.m., with Rev. David Schatz officiating. A livestream of the funeral mass can be viewed at: https://vimeo.com/event/4948298. Private family burial will take place in St. John’s Cemetery, Centralia.

Mert was born on February 19, 1935 to Frank and Viola (Breitbach) Weydert in Dubuque, IA.
She was united in marriage to William Feye on November 26, 1959 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.
Mert graduated from St. Columbkille High School. She went on to attend Clarke University, and the University of Iowa where she obtained her certificate in Physical Therapy.

She worked as a physical therapist for 37 years, devoting much of her career working with the BVM, Dominican, and Presentation sisters in Dubuque. She also worked at Medical Associates, Mercy One Hospital, and many nursing home facilities in the Dubuque area.

Mert was a longtime member of the Dubuque Golf and Country Club where she stayed active playing tennis with her “Tweets” friend group. She also cherished playing bridge and sharing cocktails and dinner with great friends.

Her greatest joy was traveling the world with her husband Bill and following her children and grandchildren in all their endeavors. She regularly attended tennis matches, swim meets and found great joy in supporting their interests.

She was a lifetime member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church where she served as a lector for several years.

Mert was an incredible woman who touched the lives of so many people in their times of need-giving guidance, hope, and faith. She loved family and friends deeply embracing life and all it held.

She is survived by her husband, Bill; children, Karla Feye of Colorado, Stephen Feye of Eagle, WI, Anne (Jeffrey) Morton of Dubuque, Jennifer (Marty) Menster of Eldridge, IA, and Mimi (Randy) Vaassen of Dubuque; grandchildren, Lauren, Heather, Stephanie, Emily, Elizabeth, Claire, Celia, Caroline, Olivia, Samuel, Sofia, Alex, Molly, Adler, Evan, and Leyton; and 11 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother, Don (Kay) Weydert; and sisters-in-law, Rosemary Weydert, Marilyn Martin, and June (Terry) Fahlenkamp.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Roy Weydert, Joan (Bob) Roth, Virginia (Joe) Bauman, Robert Weydert; and daughter-in-law, Miriam Feye.

Mert’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Andrea Ries for the exceptional care the past 27 years, and to the wonderful staff at Ennoble Manor. They wish to especially thank Mert’s dear caregiver, Linda Sullivan, for the care and compassion given to Mert. Your kindness will never be forgotten.

Memorials can be given to the St. Columbkille Catholic School building renovation-Our Future In Christ Campaign. Donations can be made by visiting: https://www.stcolumbkille.net/our-future-in-christ

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