Obituaries Archive

William G. Bartels

William G. (“Woody”) Bartels, 90, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away on Sunday June 4, 2023.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am to 10:30 am, Friday June 9, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, Iowa.  Funeral services and a Mass will then be held immediately thereafter at 11:00 am at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery where American Legion Post #137 will accord military honors.

Woody was born to Edward and Marie (Kluesner) Bartels on August 27, 1932, in Dyersville, Iowa the 5th of 15 children.  He attended school in Dyersville at St. Francis Xavier High School.  Woody was drafted in the U.S. Army and served 2 years from 1953-1955 being stationed in Munich, Germany.  After his military service, Woody returned to Iowa and shortly thereafter began his career at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works, retiring in 1989, after 30 years of service.

Throughout his life, Woody was an avid sportsman and outdoorsman.  His passion for golf was well-known throughout the community, as evident by his lifetime membership and activity for over 7 decades with the Dyersville Golf & Country Club.  In 2021, the DGCC expressed their appreciation for Woody by dedicating a memorial bench in his honor and placing it on the 3rd tee of the golf course.

Woody was also a member of the Sportsman’s Club in Dyersville, the American Legion Post #137, the Knights of Columbus Council 1734, and the Dyersville Recreation Committee.

Of utmost significance was Woody’s lifetime relationship with St. Francis Xavier Basilica, being active in many roles with the church, especially as a proud member of the Basilica Choir for over 70 years.

Woody is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brother Dale Bartels of Dyersville, IA, and his sisters Myrna Carty of Sun Prairie, WI, Phyllis Bartels of Hazel Green, WI, Joyce Caruso of The Villages, FL, and Rosemary Frericks, Joan Bartels, and Kay Krapfl, all of Dyersville, IA.

He is survived by his sons David Bartels of Walnut Creek, CA, Bruce Bartels of Platteville, WI, Ken (Carol) Bartels of Tehachapi, CA, Tim Bartels of Portland, OR, and daughter Amy (Robert) Weckworth of Greensboro, NC.

His surviving siblings include brother John “Zoobie” Bartels of Moore, OK, and sisters Emily Bartels of Dyersville IA, Doris Crow of Dubuque, IA, Bevlin Bartels of Hazel Green, WI, Marlene (Steve) McAleer of Monticello, IA, Patricia Bartels of Elk Horn, WI, and Nancy (Bert) Fairchild of Woodbury, MN. 

Woody was also a proud and loving Grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Grandchildren: Tori Bartels and Ryan Bartels (David); Caitlin (Jordan) Frederick, MacKenzie (Jordan) Kress and Trey Bartels (Bruce); Alexis (Anthony) Bartels-Popelar and Andrew Bartels (Ken); Jenna Bartels and Natalie Bartels (Tim); Meg Weckworth and Kevin Weckworth (Amy).

Great-grandchildren: Mabel Frederick and Kiya Frederick (Caitlin).

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the St. Francis Xavier Basilica, or Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Susan L. Miller

Susan Lynn (Wirzbach) Miller, 74, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Friday, June 2, 2023, at Hawkeye Care Center, Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 A/M, on Monday, June 5, 2023, at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church, Dubuque, with Fr. Tom McDermott, Fr. Dave Schatz, and Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9 A/M – 10:45 A/M, on Monday, June 5, 2023, at the Church.

The Miller Funeral Home, East Dubuque, is serving the family.

Sue was born on August 16, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Robert and Mildred (Nauman) Wirzbach. She was a graduate of Wahlert High School, Class of 1966. She then attended Hawkeye Tech in Waterloo, IA, and received her LPN degree. She later received her RN degree from NICC in Peosta, IA. She married Robert J. Miller on October 17, 1980, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.

Sue had a great love for nursing and had a 40+ year career at Xavier Hospital and Mercy Hospital, both in Dubuque, primarily in the Intensive Care, Cardiac Medical and Cardiac Rehab units. She was very proud to be a “Mercy Nurse”. She loved the patients, physicians, and fellow staff she worked with during her career.

Sue was a proud mother to her (2) children, Rachel and Scott, and proud Grandma to (5) grandchildren, Cameron, Cora, Claire, Caleb and Cooper. She loved to sew clothes for Rachel and Scott, was a great cook, adored her dogs, Charley, Shannon, and especially Cheena, and for many years enjoyed the card club with her fellow nurses.

Surviving are her husband, Robert (Bob, R J); (2) children, Rachel (Nema) Hosseini, of Fitchburg, WI, and Scott (Sara) Miller, of Dubuque, IA; (5) grandchildren, Cameron Hosseini, Cora Miller, Claire Hosseini, Caleb Hosseini, and Cooper Miller; her siblings, Bob (Jean) Wirzbach, Karen (Don) Curler, Jean Wirzbach (Kate Hoover), Tom (Angie) Wirzbach; her in-laws, Bill (Joni) Miller and Mary Ann (Mike) Koch; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, Bob & Millie Wirzbach; Baby Miller (in infancy); her sister and brother-in-law, Janet (Tom) Noel; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, Homer and Lillian (Kuhl) Miller.

THE FAMILY REQUESTS NO FLOWERS. A Susan L. Miller Memorial Fund has been established.  If not at the Visitation/Mass, memorials may be sent to – Robert Miller, 4682 Camelot Drive, Dubuque, IA 52002.  Memorials will be designated to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society and the Dubuque Food Pantry.

The family wishes to thank Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for the care given to Sue during the long journey and illnesses she endured.

Online condolences may be left at www.millerfhed.com

Madonna M. Berg

Madonna M. (Matous) Berg, 80, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away unexpectedly at 4:50 p.m. on Thursday, June 1, 2023 at Finley Hospital, in Dubuque, IA.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 7th, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Madonna was born on August 17, 1942 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Melvin and Mae (Green) Matous. On October 15, 1960 she was united in marriage to Donald W. Berg at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

Madonna was formerly employed in housekeeping at Stonehill Care Center until her retirement. She was a member of St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. She loved spending time with her family, gardening, traveling to various destinations and of course her casino trips.

Surviving is her husband, Donald W. Berg; two children, June (John) Quinn of Crosby, TX, and Donald, Jr. of East Dubuque; two grandchildren, Johnathan and Stephen; two great-grandchildren, Genesis and Vianna; her siblings, Nancy (Kenneth) Clayton of Sherrill, IA, Helen (Kenneth) Heacock and Melvin (Judy) Matous Jr. both of Dubuque; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Mae Matous.

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

Connie T. Helling

Connie T. Helling, 84, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2023 at Luther Manor in Dubuque, IA.

Private family services will be held on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, IL, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery

Constance (Connie) Theresa Leibold was born in Jamestown Township, Grant County, WI on July 7, 1938 to William V. and Mary (Sherman) Leibold. She grew up in East Dubuque, IL and attended St. Mary’s grade school in East Dubuque and St. Joseph’s Academy in Dubuque, IA.

She married Richard Anthony Helling on July 18, 1959. They later divorced.

Connie worked for several years at Dubuque Telephone Answering Service and later at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA. Mom enjoyed shopping and spending time with her family, especially her grandbabies.

She is survived by her 3 daughters, Christy (John) Kirk of Dubuque, IA, Cheri (Michael) Sullivan of Land O’Lakes, FL and Cathy Jo (Stephen) LeGrand of Elkhorn, NE, 8 grandchildren, Nicholas (Anna) Kirk, Sarah (Matt) Breitbach, Taylor (Mike) Noto, Michael (Maddie) Sullivan, Brendan (Michelle) Sullivan, Ashley (Geoff) Rozovics, Alex (Brittany) LeGrand and Anakin LeGrand, 11 Great Grandchildren, JJ and Cole Kirk, Michael and Quinn Noto, Violet, Jordan and Natalie Sullivan, Addison, Gavin and Ayla Rozovics and Everleigh LeGrand. Sister’s Mary Jo May of Fairplay, WI and Lisa (Russ) Potter of Overland Park, KS. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law Dr. Frederick May.

The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and attention to mom, especially in her final days. Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Mary K. Loney

Mary K. Loney, age 63, of Dubuque, IA, went to be home with the Lord on June 1, 2023, at Sunnycrest Manor, while surrounded by her family and closest friends, after a life-long battle with Myoclonic Epilepsy with ragged red fibers (MERFF) disease.  To honor Mary’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 12:00 noon at the Tri-State Community Church, 12937 Derby Grange Road in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on December 23, 1959, in Aurora, IL, a daughter to Robert and Anna (Guetel) Besch.  She grew up with a distinct love for all that was good in this life and her family eventually moved to Dubuque when she was young.  She was a proud graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, Class of ’79.  Mary went on to spend her working years in the housekeeping department at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque until her health issues deteriorated and Mary was forced to stay at home with her family.  In time, Mary met her soul-mate, Mark Loney, and the couple was united in marriage on April 25, 2003, and were blessed with 20 loving years together.  They became lifelong members of the Tri-State Community Church where her love for God and family grew with each passing day.  Mary was blessed with a kind and gentle heart that had no limits and was always ready to talk to anyone the Lord brought across her path and made countless new friends throughout the process.  Spending time with family and friends was Mary’s greatest joy, and any opportunity to get a little camping, or side-by-side rides in were always considered a great way to pass the time.  Mary’s love for her husband, daughter, three grandsons, and her unofficial granddaughter was continually on display and never in question.  But, Mary’s heart didn’t stop with the people around her, she also adored the pets that the Lord brought into her life and she had been blessed with countless hours of joy with her cats and dogs by her side as well.  It’s difficult to imagine moving forward in the physical world around us without Mary’s bright love and light residing within it.  Her legacy of love will live on forever in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her and we thankfully find peace in the fact that Mary is now free from her earthly struggles and presently residing in absolute eternal perfection in the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Thank you, Mary, for reminding us that this life is a temporal one from the very moment we arrive and each day we are given here is simply another day to give God the glory and build up our treasures in Heaven where rust and thieves can never touch them.  Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.  Enter into the joy of your Lord.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include,

her loving husband of 20 years,
Mark Loney, Dubuque, IA;

her adored daughter,
Rachel (Justin Lumley) Besch, Dubuque, IA;

her three grandsons,
Aden, Blake, and Waylon;

her unofficial granddaughter,
Kayla Pergande;

her siblings,
Bernie (Cindy) Besch, Peosta, IA,
Bernadette (Bob) Cobleigh, Hartford, WI,
and Karen Healy, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Florian “Skeeter” Besch; her father-in-law, Del “Babe” Loney; and many beloved pets.

Mary’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sunnycrest Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the professional and compassionate care they have provided to Mary and her family. Your sincere kindness brought Mary much peace when she needed it most and for that we are forever grateful.

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

Millie Schroeder

Millie (Kluck) Schroeder, 96, passed away peacefully in her home in Dubuque, surrounded by her 7 children on Saturday, June 3, 2023.

Visitation will be Tuesday, June 6, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kenned Road. There will be no public funeral service.

Millie demonstrated a strong love and devotion to her children and especially to the love of her life, Don, to whom she was married for 66 years.

Known for her resilience, organization and quirky humor, Millie was an avid golfer (proud of her ‘hole in won’), an accomplished seamstress and enjoyed crocheting, camping, square dancing and Lawrence Welk.

She is survived by Sandi(Tom) Butler-CA, Susie (Lorie) Kluesner-FL, Connie (Jim) Kuekan-NH, Tom (Trish Wagner)-VA Jerry (Pam Huseman)-Dubuque, Julie (Matt) Shallow-VA, Jeff (Amy Seipp)-Dubuque, 18 Grandchildren, 19 Great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her loving husband, Donald, parents, Sylvester and Ida (Fleege) Kluck, siblings Merlin, Roman, Elmer, Lorraine (Stone), Hazel (Strohmeyer), Janet (Millier) and great grandson, Connor Hume.

The family expresses great appreciation for the long term devoted and tender care by Jerry and Pam with whom she lived and the recent services and kindnesses provided by Care Initiatives Hospice.

Robert Clark

Robert “Bob” Clark , 89, of Dubuque, died Thursday, June 1, 2023, at his home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, June 5, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Robert will be 10:00 am Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens in Dubuque.

Robert was born January 17, 1934, in New Lisbon, WI, the son of Walter Odell and Julia Marguerite Pearsall Clark. On June 30, 1963, he married Jeloyce Grace Brunning.  She died October 4, 2008.

He graduated from New Lisbon High School and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville with a degree in agriculture & Science.

He worked in the shipping and parts department at John Deere Dubuque Works.

Bob was a member of the Masons.  He enjoyed wood carving, spending time with his grandchildren, and reading.

Survivors include one daughter, Ellen (Arthur) Craker of Hebron, IL; two sons, Eric M. Clark of Urbandale, and Paul Clark of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Brad, Kayla, Robert, Magenta; one brother, Keith (Edna) Clark of Dubuque.

Besides his wife he was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, William and Carroll Clark and one sister, Shirley Oakes.

A special thank you to his neighbor Tom Jacks.

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

Ronald J. Soppe

Ronald J. “Ron” Soppe, age 80, of Graf, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 31, 2023, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Ron’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 1, 2023, from 1:30-4:30 p.m., at the Reiff Event Center, 894 Peosta Street, Peosta, IA.  Burial will be in the Lattnerville Cemetery in Graf, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ron’s family.

Ron was born on June 17, 1942, in Hanover, Illinois, a son to Florian and Helen (Remke) Soppe.  His family eventually made their way to the Bankston area where Ron grew up and planned to raise a family of his own one day.  He met Kathleen “Kathy” Smith in time and the two were united in marriage on July 2, 1966, beginning their life together and were soon blessed with eight children of their own.  Ron provided for his family as a milk route driver from 1966-1974 with Charlie Denlinger.  Then from 1974-1978 he built houses with Tom Gloeckner.  Finally, Ron went to work for his brother at Dubuqueland Overhead Door Company until his eventual retirement in 2005.  Ron did his best to keep life uncomplicated and made sure that the simple pleasures in life were in abundance and that everyone he loved and cared for knew that he was there for them.  Ron always enjoyed sitting around the card table with family and friends for a friendly game of euchre or dominos, but he was also content to enjoy a good meal, grab a cold beer and find the comfy spot in the recliner with his favorite western for the day on the tv.  He appreciated the moments in life where even the birds gathered around the feeder could be the highlight of any given day.  Ron was a good and decent man who leaves behind a legacy which will be visibly on display within the lives of his generations for follow for years to come.  We will miss straight shooting attitude and ability to laugh when the time was right.  Thank you, Ron, for being the patriarch for so many years and may the Lord keep you safe and secure in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ron include,

his bride of 56 years,
Kathy Soppe, Graf, IA;

his seven children,
Kevin (Juanita) Soppe, Sherrill, IA,
Laurie (Dan) Steffens, Sherrill, IA,
Cory (Lisa) Soppe, Sherrill, IA,
Lisa (Carl) Hermsen, Earlville, IA,
Tracey Soppe, Peosta, IA,
Ryan (Jessica) Soppe, Peosta, IA,
and Rick (Alicia) Soppe, Graf, IA;

his daughter-in-law,
Amy Soppe, Peosta, IA;

his twenty grandchildren;

his seven great-grandchildren, with one on the way;

his siblings,
Dan (Ruth) Soppe,
Judy (Jim) Naber,
and Dennis (Kathy) Soppe;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Barb Soppe,
Karen (Dave) Mahe,
Phyllis (Eldon) Bowers,
Phillip Smith,
and Wendy (Rusty) Knight;

his mother-in-law,
Mary (McCarthy) Smith;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Todd Soppe; his brother, Gary Soppe; his sisters-in-law, Alice Soppe, and Sandy Smith; and his father-in-law, Arvel Smith.

Ron’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kourtney and Morgan, for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.  Your gentleness and patience truly helped to bring a little peace to our hearts and minds when needed most.

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

William M. Gerber

William “Bill” Max Gerber, 75, of Dubuque, died Friday, June 2, 2023, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

The Funeral Service for Bill will be 12:00 pm Monday, June 5, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with a celebration of his life immediately following the service at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory until 2:00 pm.   Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

William was born February 24, 1948, in Decorah, IA, the son of Max Amillion and Florence Evengeline Hand Gerber. On August 2, 1969, he married Rachel Ann Smith at the Church of the Nativity, Dubuque.

Bill was a graduate of Wahlert High School class of 1966 and Loras College class of 1970.  He later received his MA+15 from Clarke College.

He taught 1 year at St. Joseph Grade School, 4 years at Wahlert High School, 30 years at Western Dubuque High School and 5 years at Galena Middle School.

He was an avid baseball fan, loving sports and a good game of cards with friends.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years and best friend, Rachel; two sons, William J. Gerber of Dubuque, and Mark D. (Andrea) Gerber of Apple Valley, MN; and three grandsons, Keyan, Kaleb, and Kalvin; four sisters-in-Law, Rita (Bob) Murray of West Des Moines, IA, Paula (Joe) Zwack of Dubuque, Charlotte (Jim) McCoy of Dubuque, Christine (Ray) Sweeney of Roanoke, VA, and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Max.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to VIATS, Salvation Army, and Crescent Community Health.

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

Francis A. Thoma

Francis A. Thoma, 91, of Dubuque, died Thursday, June 1, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Francis will be 10:00 am Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque with military honors rendered by the American Legion Post 6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Francis was born March 21, 1932, in Saint Donatus, IA, the son of Joseph and Frances  Meisenburg Thoma. On July 29, 1967, he married Mary Kerstein at St. Mary’s Church East Dubuque IL.

Francis was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 39 years.  He later worked with his son-in-law for 15 years at Horsfall Construction.

He enjoyed farming, gardening, taking long walks, traveling and being with his family. He thoroughly loved trips to Dairy Queen and also enjoyed sharing stories with everyone he knew.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Mary; one daughter, Janet (Doug) Horsfall of Dubuque; two granddaughters, Anna Horsfall, and Abby Horsfall; one brother, Richard Thoma of Dubuque; one sister, Patricia Klass of Dubuque, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and in laws, Charles and Irene Kerstein, and siblings, Bill (Edna) Thoma, Marie (Alfred) Barth, Arnold (Phyllis) Thoma, Bernice (Louis) Pottebaum, Joseph (Betsy) Thoma, Victor (Viola) Thoma, Ernest (Alice) Thoma, Larry Thoma, Donald Thoma, Ethel Thoma and Edwin Klaas.

A special thank you to his family, friends, and neighbors for all their love and support for the last several years.

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

Marvin E. Cocayne

Marvin Eugene Cocayne, 78, of Dubuque, IA, was called home into the grace filled arms of his Lord and Savior due to complications arising from a heart attack. He passed peacefully at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, May 27, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center while surrounded by his loving family & close friends.

In celebration of Marvin’s life, family and friends may visit from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 9, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, June 10, 2023, at St. John’s Lutheran Church.  Family and friends may gather after 9 a.m. at the church until time of service. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery; military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Marvin was born on January 23, 1945, in Dubuque, IA, to Mildred C. (Lehnertz) and John M. Cocayne. A special day to remember 01-23-45. He married Shirley Mae Thor on October 11, 1969, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dickeyville, WI. They met while he was an Orderly in Xavier Hospital’s ER after she was involved in a near fatal car accident. He served within the United States Navy achieving the rank of Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class before being honorably discharged on April 8, 1966, and then served in the Navy Reserve until 1973.

He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School Class of 1963 and attended the University of Dubuque for one year. Marvin worked in the healthcare industry for more than 37 years, beginning his career at Xavier Hospital, Dubuque, IA, as an Orderly straight out of high school, leaving for military service, and returned to become their Purchasing Manager until it closed. He continued his career at MercyOne Medical Center, Dubuque, as the Director for Environmental Service until him retired on August 15, 2000. He worked after retirement as the Head Bellman at the Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark until 2017.

Marvin was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, holding several positions on Committees and the Church Council during his time. He was a charter member of the Dubuque Evening Lions Club and received the Melvin Jones Award; he served as a past president, board member, treasurer and was actively involved in their service projects. He served on the Luther Manor Board of Director for many years, holding the office of Vice President this year. He played an instrumental role in the development and planning for Luther Manor’s Grand Meadows Campus expansion into Asbury, IA. Many will remember Marv for always being the one to motion for meetings to adjourn. He also enjoyed volunteering for the Special Olympics, Dubuque Schools – Field Trips and Washington Relays for 25 plus years, Leisure Service Events, and the Hempstead Booster Club.

He loved watching westerns, military movies and listening to old time radio. He enjoyed fishing and boating. Recreationally, he played slow pitch softball, volleyball, and bowled, all for 35 plus years. He loved vacationing yearly at Woman Lake, MN, with family and friends for more than 50 years. Marvin dedicated his life to his family, friends, and the Dubuque Community.

Marvin is survived by his son, Michael J. (Michelle) Cocayne, of Dubuque; daughter, Christina M. Cocayne, of Waukesha, WI; and granddaughters, Ashley, Kaitlin and Jenna; brother, John (Jan) Cocayne of Dubuque; sisters-in-law Pat Cocayne, of Dubuque, Jerrie Cheffer, of Bettendorf, IA, Carol (Jay Yusko) Thor, of Elgin, IL, Joan (Gordon) Thor-Gallas, of Monroe, WI, and Mary (Gordon) Moll, of Mauston, WI; brother-in-law, John (Sheri) Thor, of Bellevue, NE; numerous nieces and nephews, many great and several great-great nieces and nephews along with his beloved dog Nyla.

He is preceded in death by his wife of 52 years Shirley M. (Thor) Cocayne; parents, John M. and Mildred C. (Lehnertz) Cocayne; brothers, James A. Cocayne, Dale A. Cocayne, and Gale A. Cocayne in infancy; sisters, Shirley A. Cocayne and Joann M. Cocayne both in infancy; and in-laws Quentin B. and Elizabeth M. (Meyer) Thor.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to either the Dubuque Evening Lions Club Vision & Hearing Fund or St. John’s Lutheran Church.

The family would like to thank Pastor Ann Fritschel, of St. John’s Lutheran Church, the ER & ICU staff that cared for Marvin at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center, Cardiologist Dr. Brian Loc and our rock though all medical discussions Bonnie Gorrell.

Edward J. Fuller

Edward “Ed” J. Fuller, 72, of Dubuque, died Thursday, June 1, 2023, at his home of natural causes.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Ed will be at 10:30 am Thursday, June 8, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.  Burial will be in Hazel Green Cemetery at a later date. Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6.

Ed was born July 31, 1950, in Richland Center, WI, the son of Edward and Elsie (Neurauter) Fuller. Ed graduated from Southwestern High School in Hazel Green, Wisconsin, in 1968. After high school he joined the United States Navy where he served from 1969 until 1975. Ed was united in marriage to Kathy Pfiffner on December 12, 1970 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque, they later divorced.

Ed worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for 26 and a half years and then drove semi from 2000-2017. Ed absolutely loved singing karaoke, doing so at least twice a week. He also loved just spending time with his family and friends.

Survivors include his two daughters, Lisa (Russ) Hoerner of Epworth, IA; and Amy Soppe of Peosta, IA, two grandchildren, Bryce Hanson and Lexi Soppe, three siblings, Harold (Dorothy) Fuller of Peosta; Veronica (Ray) Castle of Bullhead City, AZ; and Andrea (Jim) Martens of Cuba City, WI; brother-in-law, Rick Schuchart of Hazel Green, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by a nephew, Chris Schuchart; sister, Diana Schuchart; and son-in-law, Todd Soppe.

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

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

Leo C. Kern

Leo C. Kern, 85 of Galena, IL passed away Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at the Midwest Senior Care Community. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10:30 AM at the church until the time of mass. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 PM, Tuesday, June 13, 2023, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. The burial will be in the church cemetery. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

He was born February 10, 1938, in Garber, IA, the son of Albert and Marie (Trumm) Kern.  Leo’s family moved to Galena when he was five years old.  He attended St. Mary’s school and served as an altar boy. While attending Galena High School he delivered groceries on his bike, something he was very proud of. Leo graduated with the class of 1956. He enlisted in the United States Army from 1957 until his honorable discharge in 1960, spending time in Germany. He married Treva McFall on September 4, 1971, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Leo began working at the Schwartz dealership in Elizabeth, IL, then he owned and operated Leo’s Standard Service Station on Highway 20 West for three years. Eventually working for Truck Country of Iowa for forty-one years from 1975 until his retirement in 2016. After retiring he worked at Eagle Ridge golf course and helped park cars downtown Galena at the Log Cabin parking lot. He was a church volunteer, one of the first Eucharist ministers, and an usher for several years until the pandemic. Leo was a Galena Elks Lodge #882 member and volunteered for many of their organization’s activities. 

He is survived by his wife, Treva, and three children, Charles (Jinae) Kern, Rhonda (David) Barrow, and Mary (Guy Suesuntisook) Kern, two grandchildren, Michael Kern and Mira Suesuntisook, one sister, Norma Jean Kirpes of Dubuque, IA, and his many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Donna Gentry, and Marylyn Burdt, and two brothers, Jerome and Ronald Kern.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Gabriel R. Hanken

Gabriel “Gabe” R. Hanken, 41 of Monticello, Iowa passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at Jones Medical Center, Anamosa, Iowa.

Visitation will be begin at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at SS Peter and Paul Lutheran Church in Castle Grove, Iowa.

Funeral services will commence at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at SS Peter and Paul Lutheran Church with burial in Prairie Hill Cemetery in Castle Grove.  Pastor Holly Knouse will officiate.

Gabriel was born on April 13, 1982 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Jay and Cindy (Rowen) Hanken.

Gabe was curious about everything mechanical and scientific from an early age. He inherited his love of fireworks and cars that go fast from his father. His mother claimed he was the only kid she knew that could start the lawn on fire while it was raining. Gabe had a knack for anything automotive, but also took great interest in computers and technology, loved wine making, antique guitar repair, and amateur gemology.  He also loved fine art and music of all genres.  Curiosity was one of his best traits.  He was also independent, strong willed, and stubborn at times.

Gabe graduated from Monticello High School in 2000, and briefly attended the University of Iowa, but chased a dream in racing to North Carolina in 2002. Gabe worked his way up from working on an ARCA team, to the Busch Series, to the Cup Series over a few short years. His time in NASCAR allowed him to travel all over the country as a pit crew member for Phoenix Racing, and later as a suspension specialist in the Cup Series for BAM Racing.  He made many friends during his time in North Carolina, and had many stories of his travels.

Survivors include his mother, Cindy Hanken of Monticello, grandmother, Nedra Hanken of Monticello, siblings: Garett (Jenny) Hanken of Monticello, Whitney Hanken of Santa Fe, NM, and Kaelor Hanken of Denver, CO, nieces, Olyvia Hanken-Arlen and Rosa Hanken, and a nephew, Waylon Hanken.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jay Hanken in 2019, paternal grandfather, Wesley Hanken, maternal grandparents, Robert and Rosa Rowen, nephews, Anton and Brooks Hanken, aunt, Terri Vanek, and an uncle, Chris Hanken.

Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello 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) 700 E Oak St, Monticello, IA  52310.

Marie I. Weiland

Marie I. Weiland, 106, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Saturday, June 3, 2023 at St. Patrick Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marie will be 10:30 am Saturday, June 3, 2023, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Marie was born May 14, 1917, in White Lake, SD, the daughter of Henry Joseph and Ludwina Josephine Bertsch Schiffer. She graduated from White Lake High School and received her teaching degree from Notre Dame Academy in Mitchell, SD. She taught in rural schools in South Dakota until her family moved to Zwingle, IA in 1938. She taught in Iowa until she married James Weiland. They lived on a farm in Otter Creek. She was an avid gardener and excellent cook. She and Jim enjoyed traveling by car and visited many of the states.

She was a member of St. Lawrence Parish in Otter Creek and it’s Rosary Society, as well as the Catholic Daughters of America. She made rosaries for the missions and was active in church functions.

Survivors include her daughter, Rose Marie (Vernon) Ambrosy; four grandchildren, Mark (Connie) Ambrosy, Merle (Lynn) Ambrosy, Marline (Mike) McGranahan, Michael (Jennifer) Ambrosy; several great-grandchildren; and two sisters-in-law, Leona Schiffer and Phyllis Schiffer; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, six brothers; Victor Schiffer, Alvin Schiffer, Walter (Virginia) Schiffer, Charlie (Emma) Schiffer, Elmer (Sally) Schiffer, and Henry Schiffer, four sisters, Loretta (Orville) Veach, Ella Mae (Robert) Bray, Hazel Schiffer, and JoAnne (Merlin) Meyer and, and an infant sister, Rose.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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