Obituaries Archive

Bernard K. Bainbridge

Bernard Kent “Kent” Bainbridge, age 73, died peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, surrounded by family. The Tri-State Cremation Center is assisting the family. A private family memorial ceremony will be held at a later date.

Kent was born on February 8, 1950, in New Hampton, Iowa, to Bernard and Faye Evelyn (Bever) Bainbridge. He graduated from Eldora High School in 1968, where he still holds the pole-vaulting record. In 1969, Kent was newly employed by the phone company and was transferred to Dubuque where he met his future wife, Mary Ellen Mengler. They were married on June 24, 1972.  Kent spent his working years as a telephone installer/repairman for Northwestern Bell, Qwest, and finally Century link before retiring in July of 2007, after over 36 years of service.

Kent was a cherished and loving life partner to his wife, Mary, for over 50 years. He was a father, grandpa, son, uncle and brother, and friend who was loved for his intelligence and wit, his laughter, and his wonderful and often unconventional sense of humor. Throughout his life, Kent demonstrated integrity, patience, persistence, and resiliency. He accepted the unbelievable challenge of Alzheimer’s Disease for 8 years with humor, grace, and dignity.

Kent loved adventure, making people laugh, and scaring the daylights out of people every chance he got. He loved fly-fishing, bicycled across Iowa 18 summers, jumped out of airplanes, and loved riding his Harley.  He was able to do a standing backflip into his 50’s and did his last one standing on concrete in his 40’s. He won the gold medal in his age group at the Iowa games for snowboarding in his 50’s. Kent enjoyed gardening, hiking, garage sales, road trips, spending time with family at the cabin, and playing Frisbee with “the best dogs ever”, Skippy and Blue.

A supportive and loving father to his sons, Dan and Chris, he took great pride in their accomplishments and achievements. Some of his sons’ favorite memories are going on road trips, riding bicycles and motorcycles, fly-fishing with their dad, and Ragbrai. When helping their dad with home improvement projects and building the family cabin, they learned a lot about the pride he took in his work and his artistic attention to detail.

He was a loving grandpa to his granddaughter, Isabella, and was easily persuaded to stop for ice cream due to sweet tooth issues on both of their parts, enjoyed visits to bookstores, her orchestra performances, and appreciated that she knew what songs to play to help him “feel like dancing” (Rocky Racoon, Great Balls of Fire, Baby’s Got Back, I’ve Got Ants in My Pants).

Kent was dearly loved by those he leaves behind. Those who remain to honor his memory include his wife, Mary; his son, Dan (Erin Lee Jones) Bainbridge, New York, his son, Chris Bainbridge, Dubuque, IA; his granddaughter, Isabella Bainbridge of Dubuque; his brother, Robert (Rosie) Bainbridge, Corpus Christi, Texas; his sister Barbara (Mike) Carr, of Marshall, Texas; and numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kent was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Donna Rapier.

A special thank you to Dr. Kirkendahl, and his nurse, Kate, for their support and care over the years. Also, to the wonderful people at Hospice of Dubuque for their professional and compassionate care of Kent, and his family during the last year and a half.

In remembrance of Kent’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque at www.hospiceofdubuque.org/donation

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

Lavern M. Hartman

Lavern M. “Vern” Hartman, age 85, of Peosta, passed away peacefully at 8:10 a.m., on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at Bethany Home.  To honor Vern’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at Holy Family Catholic Church – New Melleray, 16318 Holy Family Lane, Peosta, IA.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at the church, with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Family Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Dubuque Post 6.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Vern’s family.

Vern was born on September 5, 1937, in Peosta, Iowa, son of Earl and Bernadine (Duschen) Hartman.

Vern attended school in the county school in Peosta until 8th grade and went on to earn his GED.  He proudly served his country joining the U.S. Army in 1959 and was a member of the 386th Engineer Battalion driving heavy equipment.  He was united in marriage to Mary Lent on April 28, 1962, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.  The couple recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary.  Vern was a simple man.  He was honest, hard working and he would do anything for ice cream.  He not only farmed most of his life, but also worked in the maintenance departments at Dubuque Greyhound Park and later at Mount St. Francis for 20 years. Vern was a tough task-master, but quick to reward a job well-done.  He was the best guardian his special-needs son could have.  His faith was very important to him and he was a lifelong member of Holy Family Church.  When he did find some free time Vern enjoyed simple pleasures. He liked to  travel with Mary, fishing in Iowa’s small lakes, canoeing, enjoying a rainbow, a colorful sunset, or a good game of cards.  Vern was very handy and was involved in the building of the home they lived in, as well as several beautiful woodworking projects, many without the use of a pattern.  His family was always his top priority and Vern loved spending time with Mary and the children.  He especially cherished time spent with the grandkids.  Vern was an excellent role model for everyone around him, stressing the importance of hard work and family.  He will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Vern’s memory include

his wife,
Mary Hartman, Peosta, IA;

3 sons,
Thomas (Tricia) Hartman, Decorah, IA,
Daniel Hartman, Dubuque, IA
and Richard Hartman, Springville, IA;

4 grandchildren,
Victoria (Gavin) Nimrod and Christopher (Brylie Wiedmaier) and Elizabeth and Anthony Hartman;

2 great-grandchildren,
Isaac and Eli Nimrod;

and two sisters-in-law,
Gerda Hartman, Dubuque, IA
and Lois Hartman, Dubuque, IA.

Vern was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Walter and David Hartman.

Vern’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their kind and compassionate care and to their friends and neighbors who helped them through all the changes the last several months.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Vern’s memory to be divided among his favorite charities which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Vern Hartman Family.

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

Sr. Mildred Nachtman, OSF

Sister Mildred (Eloise) Nachtman, OSF, 89, of Dubuque, IA, died on Monday, June 5, 2023 at Clare House.

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

Sister Mildred was born on July 10, 1933 in Worthington, IA, the daughter of Louis and Leona (Greiner) Nachtman. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1951 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1957. Sister Mildred received her masters degree from Clarke College, Dubuque, IA. She ministered as a teacher in Iowa at Remsen, Sacred Heart, Sioux City, Pocahontas, and Luxemburg. Missions in Illinois included Midlothian and Crescent City in California.

Sister is survived by her sister, Edith Schwers; brother, Arthur (Marge) Nachtman; sister-in-law, Caroline Nachtman; nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters, Ester (Robert) Linden, Sr. Loretta Nachtman OSF, and Anita and Rosella who died in infancy; and brothers, Harold (Lynne) Nachtman and John Nachtman.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Judy K. Gantenbein

Judy K. Gantenbein, 75, of Mooresville, North Carolina, died Saturday, June 3, 2023, at Mitchell Mack Hospice House in Mooresville, NC.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until the time of the service at 10:00 am on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at the chapel at Linwood Cemetery with Morgan Frazer officiating.

Judy was born June 9, 1947, in Waterloo, IA, the daughter of Gerald Fred and Jeanette Esther (Levan) Bartelt. On December 6, 1969, she married Charles John Gantenbein in Waterloo, Iowa.

Judy worked as a trained chemist and worked in administration and quality control. Judy was a member of United Church of Christ. She enjoyed cooking and loved animals.

Survivors include her husband, Chuck Gantenbein of Mooresville, NC, two sons, Thomas (Peaceful-Spirit) Gantenbein of Iowa City, IA; and Terrance Gantenbein of Webster City, IA; three grandchildren, Mckayla, Kate, and Alexa; and sister-in-law, Peggy (Ed) Wagner of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Janis.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County and the nurses and staff at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital ICU.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Judy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Larry K. Loar

Larry Keane Loar, 69, died peacefully on May 27, 2023.  Per Larry’s wishes there are no formal services.

Larry was born to Ingrid Hies in Freising, Germany in 1953, he was adopted by Robert Keane (Lieutenant Colonel, US Air Force) and Virginia Newcome Loar, and travelled back with them to the United States, where they ultimately settled in Cocoa Beach, Florida.  He started Florida State University in 1971, lived in Tallahassee and married Lisa Tanzy, his wife of 10 years, on May 21, 1977.  He moved to Dubuque, Iowa, in 1993, and began a 30-year friendship with Sandy Hemmer.  He loved the environment, writing, singing, dancing, reading, all sports, particularly FSU sports, and his family.

He was most proud of his children, being a grandparent, being on the board of Project Concern, and his 29 years of sobriety.  He was most happy when his birth mother reconnected with him in 2017, and to share the later years of his life with her.  She was a blessing to him, as were his friends and the community and residents at Mary’s Apartments.

Survivors include his mother, Ingrid Brummer; his two children, Christa Hoffman (Matthew) and John Loar (Maria); four grandsons, Dylan Hoffman, Ian Hoffman, Gunnar Loar and Roman Loar; his brother, Michael Loar; and his dear friends, Sandy, Erica and Kitty.  He was preceded in death by his adopted parents and his stepmother, Genevieve Loar.

The family especially thanks Erica Haugen, UnityPoint Home Care, MercyOne Dubuque Home Care and Hospital, and the Northeast Iowa Area Agency on Aging, and Hillcrest Family Services. Memorials may   be made to any of these agencies, and, as Larry desired, always be compassionate to each other.

The Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.

Jane A. Ruden

Jane Ann Ruden, 70, Of Dubuque passed away on Monday June 5, 2023, at Ennoble Manor following a short illness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 8, 2023, at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be held at 3:45 p.m. Burial will follow the mass at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Jane was born on July 10, 1952, in Dubuque the daughter of Eldon J. and Dorothy A. (Fischer) Ruden. She graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1970. She worked at Georgia Pacific in Dubuque for 34 years and later at Theisen’s in Dubuque for the last 12 years. She was a member of the Church of the Nativity Parish.

Jane Loved children, she doted on her nieces and nephews, her great nieces and nephews and her great great niece. She loved celebrating their life events with homemade and beautifully decorated cakes.

Jane is survived by her mother Dorothy; her siblings Dave (Rita) Ruden, Joyce Giannakouros and Dennis Ruden along with her many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her farther Eldon her brother Jeffrey “Jeeps”, a brother-in-law George Giannakouros, and her grandparents Nicholas and Mary Ruden and Anthony and Mary Fischer.

A special thank you to Dr. Andrea Ries, to the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor, and to Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they provided.

Beverly A. Riniker

Beverly A. Riniker 77, of Dubuque IA passed away on May 30th, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday June 10, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory 2595 Rockdale Rd with a funeral service to be held at 12:00 p.m. with Deacon Bill Biver. Entombment will be at a later date in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

She was born May 21, 1946, in Dubuque, IA to Leo Loso and Dorothy (Morgan) Loso and attended East Dubuque High School. She was most recently employed at the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino.

Bev was united in marriage to Vincent Riniker December 2, 1999, in Hawaii. She loved spending time with family, traveling and playing cards.

She is survived by her loving husband, Vince of 25 years; children; Misty (Don) Slaats, William Heacock, Garry (Carrie) Clauer, Michael (May) Clauer, stepchildren; Chad (Heather) Riniker, Sara (Joe) Lambert, and Laura (Nate) MacKenzie. Her grandchildren; Brandon Hudson, Tabitha Siegworth, Leah Kennedy, Sophia & Madison Heacock, Kirsten & Kamryn Clauer, AJ Papin, Chloe Schumaker, Kael, Xander & Lana Riniker, Mason & Mazzy Lambert, and Ainsley & Flynn MacKenzie; 5 great grandchildren; siblings; Brian (Pat) Loso, Rick Loso, and Cindy (Mike) Flynn, in-laws; Kathy (Randy) Deshaw, Janet Montover, Lewis (Theresa) Riniker, Ron Riniker, and Wayne (Vicky) Riniker along with her beloved dog, Sammy.

She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather Chris Montag; grandsons Tyler Clauer & Blaine Schumaker; in-laws; Loras Riniker, Diane Schwendinger and former husbands Arvel “Red” Heacock and Garry Clauer.

In lieu of flowers, a Beverly A. Riniker memorial fund has been established.

Donald H. Von Lehmden

Donald H. “Bud” Von Lehmden, 93, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and formerly of Dyersville, passed away Monday, June 5, 2023, at Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice of Mercy in Hiawatha.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Thursday prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate and American Post 137 will accord Military Honors.

Donald was born on February 8, 1930, in New Vienna, Iowa, the son of Cornelius and Eleanor (Funke) Von Lehmden.  He married Rose Ann Konzen on November 14, 1950, in Dyersville and they enjoyed 69 years together. He enlisted in the Army and served from 1951 – 1953 during the Korean War.  His profession was hauling milk for over 40 years and for nearly half of those years he owned and operated WVL Transport, with good friend Jim Wegmann. He was a 70-year member and past commander of American Legion Post 137.  Bud helped many people with his long-time involvement in the AA program. He loved telling stories about his childhood to his children and grandchildren and had the best memory when it came to remembering important dates. He was an avid bowler and lifelong Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. These last few years he enjoyed weekly visits from grandkids and great grandkids, and loved phone calls from other family members and good friends.

Survivors include his children: Rob Von Lehmden of Dyersville, Terry (Chris) Von Lehmden of Peoria, AZ, Lisa (Doug) Pettinger of Boise, ID, Lori Yardley of Clive, IA, and Lynn (Ken) Lueck of Fairfax, IA; 9 grandchildren: Dade (Tara) Pettinger, Arly (Tyler) Coe, Bree (Brayden) Israel, Brandon and Cassie Yardley, Chloe (Nolan) Even, Halle (Ethan) Howard, Avery and Maggie Lueck; 5 great grandchildren, Charlie and Mack Howard, James Pettinger, Leo Even and Wesley Coe, and another great grandchild due soon; his sister, Ruth Kinmonth of Bellevue.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Rosie in 2020, one son, Tom Von Lehmden; siblings: Marlene (Lawrence) Oberbroeckling, Pearl (Edwin) Oberbroeckling, Viola (Gilbert) Knipper, Velma (Burnell) Lynch, and George Kinmonth; in-laws: Ramona (George) Esch, Lestor Konzen, Grace (John) Ernster, Howard (RoseMary) Konzen.

Special thanks to the staff of Hospice of Mercy for the wonderful care shown to both of our parents and our family.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

Elizabeth Gartner

Betty Gartner, 100, of Dubuque, passed away June 1, 2023 at Hawkeye Care Center.

A farewell toast visitation will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque followed by a funeral service at 2 pm.  The Eulogy will be presented by Michael Bagby.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born on April 27, 1923, to William and Loretta (Traeger) Bronn in Randalia, Iowa.  Betty was united in marriage to George C. Gartner on June 24, 1942 in Washington D.C.  Together they raised four children Merideth, Jeanne, Bruce and Bob.  They were original members of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Betty loved to collect cookbooks, listen to Betty Thomas on the radio and writing a plethora of recipes on anything available. She showed her love by cooking for her family, others and the neighborhood children.  Saturday night at 6:00 p.m. Betty’s favorite ritual was watching Lawrence Welk.  She REALLY enjoyed “shopping” (aka) going to casinos where ever her driver could find one.

Betty was the “lunch lady” at St. Joseph’s Grade school for many years.  She was an active member of the Women’s Altar and Rosary Society and the Betty’s Club.

She was a homemaker, however, the families of the Gartner Printing Co. supported the business by spending numerous hours collating, assembling, and various other tasks at home.

To know her was to love her. If you had the privilege of knowing Betty in any capacity then you had the opportunity to witness true beauty, grace, wit and wisdom.  She was able to celebrate her 100th birthday weeks ago with a party of the century surrounded by all her beloved friends and family that wore shirts praising her for 100 years of wisdom, laughter and sass.

She’s the absolute reason for a family that’s just bursting with love and it was never lost on her.  Betty loved cooking and being a home-maker and was incredibly proud to be a mom to her 4 children, grandma to 12 and great grandma to 16.   She marveled how there was “never a dull moment,” and enjoyed hearing about everyone’s busy lives as much as she enjoyed re-telling everyone she could about them.

She met, fell in love, and married George Gartner in a whirlwind romance that was made for the big screen.  She saw him and told her girlfriends without reservation that he was going to take her home that night.  She loosened her skating lace so she’d fall directly in front of him and the rest made for a timeless love story.

They were married for over 50 years and just the mention of his name 32 years after his passing could still light up her entire face.  It was an absolute testament to how deeply she was able to love.  She would always say that she and George never fought and at 100 years young she was still offering the best and most beautiful advice she could. “Never say harsh words because you can’t take them back and always kiss everyone goodnight.”  We ask that anyone that knows her or reads this to please continue her legacy of love by keeping this advice in mind.

She will be dearly missed by those left to treasure her memory. She was an absolute gem…the kind this world was so much better for having known.

Betty is survived by her children, Merideth (Steven) Hirsch of Asbury, IA, Jeanne Mast of Independence, IA , G. Bruce (Bev) Gartner of Iowa City, IA, and Robert “Bob” (Mary) Gartner of S. Elgin, IL; 12 grandchildren: Brian, Matt and Stephanie Hirsch, Jennifer Bowersox, John and Mark Mast, Gretchen Mast Collins, Amber McDonald, Adam and Trey Gartner, Lindsey and Josiah Gartner.  There are also 16 great-grandchildren:  M.J., Avery, Morgan, Lena, Lexi, Izzy, Emmett, Vinny, Trevor, Bode, Piper, Holdyn, Maverick, Maya, Becca, Reese.    She is also survived by a brother, William “Junior” Bronn of Fairbanks, IA; a sister, LaFonda Evers of Stephens City, VA.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son-in-law, Gary Mast, and grandson, Todd Mast.

A Sincere thank you to her close family of friends at Hawkeye and also Hospice of Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Hospice of Dubuque.

Jim Roeth

James “Jim” Roeth, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday June 1, 2023 in Madison, WI.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Graveside services will immediately follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens, where military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jim was born January 21, 1934 in Dubuque, and decided to never stop. He was the son of Harold and Dolores (Nelson) Roeth. He served his country with the U.S. Army from 1956-1958. Jim married Gale Miller on January 29, 1955 at Grace Methodist Church, Dubuque. She preceded him in death on September 8, 1999.  In October of 2002, Jim married Shirley (Walker) Moriarty. She preceded him in death in 2013.

Jim was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for many years until his retirement.

Throughout his years Jim became Jammer and touched many lives and pursued many interests. The Jammer was a dancing fool on roller skates, accomplished on a pedal steel guitar, a tough as nails poker player, and a self described “piece of work”.

Jammer was a Dubuque native and was relatively sure the universe revolves around the tri-state area. After 87 years he moved to Madison to be closer to his kids and able to meet his great grand-daughter Eloise, living proof of the continuum of life.

Jim also enjoyed camping and riding his motorcycle. He was an avid bowler, and at age 77 became the oldest person in Iowa to bowl his one and only 300. He was a member of the American Pencil Collector Society.  Jim was well liked and sociable, and though he met many strangers, they were never strangers for long, as Jim had the gift of finding a connection with anyone. He was very generous with friends and family.

Jim is survived by two children, Rhett (Laura) Roeth, and Rhonda (Kevin) McAllister, both of Madison, WI; two grandchildren, Kelly Roeth, and Michelle (Adam) Wente and their daughter, Eloise Joy, all of Madison; three step-children and their families, Kim (Dan) Rohner, of Dubuque, Tim Moriarty, of Minneapolis, MN, and Tod (Dee) Moriarty, of Waukee, IA; his brother-in-law,  Ross (Anita) Miller, of Topeka KS; his sister-in-law, Mary Fumuso, of Fond du Lac WI; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to both wives, he was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Jeanne Quade, Ken, Don, Gary, and RaeAnn Roeth.

Memorial donations may be made to Agrace Hospice.

Grace M. Gotto

Grace M. Gotto, 97, of Bankston, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, June 4, 2023, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa surrounded by her family.

Visitation for Grace will be held from 3 to 8 p.m, Thursday, June 8, 2023, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held at 9 am on Friday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for Grace will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, June 9, 2023, at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held at St. Clements Cemetery in Bankston, Iowa.

She was born November 12, 1925, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Marie (Ellerbach) Wilwert.  She received her education at St. Clements School in Bankston.  On October 28, 1948, she was united in marriage to Leon Gotto at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on April 14, 1976.

She was a member of St. Clements Parish and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas.

She was always up for a good euchre game, she was an avid sport fan, especially of the CUBS and Hawkeyes.  She made and gave away 100’s of quilts over the years.  she loved living on the farm.  Most of all she treasured the time spent with family and friends

She is survived by her eight children, Karen (Jerry) McAllister, Donna (Jon) Loes both of Cascade, Mary Kay Georgen, Diane Simon, and Laurie (Peter) Simon all of Farley, Lois (Mike) Kruse of Petersburg, Dan (Judy) Gotto, and Joe (Sherry) Gotto both of Bankston; 30 grandchildren; 87 great grandchildren; 4 great-great grandchildren; one brother, LaVerne (Joan) Wilwert of Bankston, a sister-in-law, Mary Jane Anthony of Holy Cross, and a brother-in-law, Ralph and Nancy Gotto of Burnsville, MN.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; two sons-in-law, Carl Simon, and Steve “Punk” Georgen; a grandson, Cory Simon on September 26, 1972; a great granddaughter, Natalie Kluesner; one brother, Norbert (Germaine) Wilwert; brother-in-law, Cletus and Rosella Gotto.

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

Lynn Beauchamp

Lynn Beauchamp passed away at the age of 81 on February 7, 2023.

He was born on July 11, 1941, to Irvin and Dorothy Beauchamp of Winfield, IA. As the only child, he passed his time by his interest in hunting in the woods and fields behind his childhood home.  In high school, he survived a scary car accident caused by a front tire blowout, causing the car he was riding in to spiral in the air, landing upside down.  Thankfully, he wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, so he was ejected from the vehicle before taking the worst of the crash.  His recovery in the hospital is where he met his future wife who was with friends from his class visiting him.  He and Mary Jo (Jody) got married June 11, 1961.

He later graduated from Wesleyan University and then got his mortuary license from Milwaukee, WI.  They moved to Dubuque, IA shortly after, where he worked in the mortuary business for several years.  Upon the arrival of his first child (Brad), the unpredictable hours of the mortuary business became the motivator for Lynn to take a correspondence course in Drafting, to which he put to use at John Deere for many years.  A couple years later, his 2nd son (Randy) was born.

While Lynn and Jody raised a young family, he continued his interest in hunting and trap and target shooting, being a member of Izaak Walton and the Dubuque Rifle and Pistol Club.  After he retired from John Deere in 1995, he and Jody became “snowbirds” between Dubuque and Phoenix, AZ, where they enjoyed the nicer winter weather and spending time with grandkids and Jody’s family.  Over a year after Jody passed away in 2019, Lynn moved to Scottsdale, AZ full time so his sons could take better care and spend time with him there.  While there, Lynn enjoyed time with his sons and grandkids on many occasions.

A private family burial will be held at the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

Patricia J. Dougherty

Patricia Jean Dougherty, age 80, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, June 2, 2023, after a long illness, cared for by her loving family. She was a warm and wonderful wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt and friend. She was kind and intelligent, one of the world’s great storytellers, and a connoisseur of really good jokes.

A visitation for family and friends will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 9th, 2023, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Steve Rosonke officiating. The burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com.

She was born on April 7, 1943, in Dyersville Iowa, to Lonald and Leona (Jasper) McElmeel. The youngest of five children, she grew up in a fun-loving family and remained close to her siblings throughout her life. She graduated from St Francis Xavier School high school in Dyersville and enjoyed her career at Life of Mid-America Insurance in Dubuque where she worked as the agency secretary.

She married William Dougherty of Dubuque on June 22, 1973. During their fifty happy years together, they nurtured their own close-knit family, with daughter Christina (Fortmann) and son Shawn. She cared for her family as a stay-at-home mother, and later worked at Shaffer Photography. She was devoted to her granddaughters Ella and Maddy Fortmann, and her son-in-law, Tony Fortmann.

She loved lively conversation, good food, digging in the dirt in her backyard where she grew beautiful flowers, and being Irish. No one enjoyed the holidays more than she did, and to her, Christmas night was the perfect opportunity to begin planning for the next Christmas. She loved to shop and read and play the slots. She had a deeply sympathetic heart and could see the humor in any situation. More than anything, she loved to laugh.

Besides her immediate family, she is survived by her sister, Bernadine Thielen, of Dyersville, Iowa, her brother-in-law Patrick Dougherty, her sister- and brother-in-law Carol and Joe Stecher, and many adoring nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Lynell McElmeel, of Waukesha, Wisconsin, sister Donna Shaffer and her husband, James Shaffer, of Dubuque, her sister Kathleen Luensmann and her husband David Luensmann, of Denver, Colorado, and brother-in-law Gene Thielen, of Dyersville, Iowa.

Pat’s family would like to thank Chris from Hospice of Dubuque for providing such kind and compassionate care.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Terence H. Beresford

Terence “Terry” H. Beresford, 75, of Dubuque, IA and Sun City Center, FL passed away on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics surrounded by his family following a  stroke.

Visitation for Terry will be held from 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, June 4, 2023, at the Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road Dubuque, Iowa.   There will also be visitation at the funeral home at  9:30 a.m. on June 5, 2023 prior to the funeral mass.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, June 5, 2023, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, with Rev. Steve Rosonke presiding.  Burial will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery in Farley, IA where Military Honors will be afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.

Terry was born July 30, 1947, in Key West, IA, the son of Walter and Viola (Sweeney) Beresford.  He graduated from the former St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, IA in 1965.  Following graduation, he served in the U.S. Navy.  He worked  at the Illinois Central Railroad after his military service. Terry began his career with John Deere Dubuque Works in 1969, where he remained until his retirement in 2001.  On September 6, 1969, he was united in marriage to Donna Willenbring at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, IA.

Terry was a member of the St. Anthony’s Parish in Dubuque, IA.  He volunteered for many years setting up lights for the annual Reflections in the Park display.  One of his favorite things to do was watch Iowa football games with his family.  Terry was a keeper of many things and he avidly enjoyed attending garage sales.  His sense of humor was unmatched and you could always count on him for a good laugh. He loved spending time with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids.  Terry enjoyed spending time at Stone Cliff Winery with his wife and many friends who he met along the way.  He looked forward to spending winters in Sun City Center, FL with their Florida family.

He is survived by his wife, Donna of Dubuque, IA; his children, Todd (Sherri) Beresford of Chagrin Falls, OH, Jamie (Tiffany) Beresford of Dubuque, IA, a son-in-law, Luke Schmitz of Dubuque, IA; 12 grandchildren, Katie (Jacob) Schoop, Lindsey (Michael) Kessler, Sarah (Joe Schueller), Hannah (Austin Kluck), Matthew Schmitz, Grace Schmitz, and Ally, Ashton, Aiden, and Ava Beresford, and Giovanni and Maia Ramos; 7 great grandchildren, Ava, Lyla, Jaxon, William, and Evelynn Schoop, and Charlie and Elizabeth Kessler; his siblings, Donna (William) Gerken of Farley, IA, Nelda (Patrick) Kennedy of Placid, IA; Other survivors include sisters and brothers-in-law, Jean Ann (John) Heiberger of Epworth, IA, Jim (Joan) Willenbring of Farley, IA, and Deb (Steve) Singley of Coal Valley, IL.

Terry was greeted at heaven’s gate by his beloved daughter, Stacy Schmitz, and his granddaughter, Baby Sophie.  He was also proceeded in death by his three sisters, Melrose (Marvin) Schute, Darlene (Ray) Fries, and Nona (Gus) Rossknecht; three brothers, Jimmy, Tommy and William (Bill) Beresford.

In lieu of flowers a Terrence Beresford Memorial Fund has been established.

An online video may be viewed, and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Janice K. Barker

Janice “Jan” K. Barker, 81, passed away on Friday, June 2nd, 2023 at Stonehill Care Center.  Funeral Service will be 11:30 a.m., Thursday June 8th, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, Iowa.  Family will greet friends from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday June 7th, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Inurnment will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.  Jan was born September 11, 1941, the daughter of Virgil and Delores (Fitzgerald) McCullough. She graduated from Havelock High School in Havelock, Iowa. Jan was a hair stylist for many years. Jan also sold newspaper advertisements for many years working at the Maquoketa Shopper. She made crafts, collected porcelain dolls and also enjoyed finding treasures at Goodwill and thrift stores.

Jan enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren and was proud of all of them and their accomplishments. She developed a special love for watching her granddaughters dance and looked forward to upcoming recitals or shows of any kind.  Everyone who knew Jan enjoyed her ‘spicy, sometimes feisty, and always fun-loving’ personality!  She was a fantastic cook and the family especially enjoyed her Thanksgiving meals!  She was the matriarch of the family; loved, respected, and cherished by all.  We will miss her every second of every day.

Survivors include her children, Lori Guzinski, Brenda (Alex) Ricketson, Brian (Emily) Westphal, Kelly (Avis) Stroud, Randy (Melinda) Stroud, and Amy (Ritchie Whitmore) Stroud, 13 grandchildren; siblings, Virgie Nagel and Jaquie Vegors.  Jan was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, twin sister Janet Smrkovski, Virgil McCullough and Karen McCullough.

The family would like to thank the staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for our loving care of our mother.  A special thank you to Vanessa who kept us informed, loved our mother, and is a forever friend.  

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