Obituaries Archive

Amy Driscoll

Amy Driscoll, 59, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 8:30 -10:30 am Monday, July 17, 2023, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30 am.  Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podjajsky will officiate, and Rev. Noah Diehm will concelebrate.

Amy was born on July 30, 1963, in Omaha, NE the daughter of Keith, Sr. and Mary (Walsh) Cornelius.  She attended schools in Nebraska, including a one-room schoolhouse until they moved to Moville, IA and she graduated in 1981, from Woodbury Central High School.  She attended Western Iowa Tech, majoring in Police Science.  In January of 1984 she was hired by the State of Iowa Department of Public Safety, Capitol Police Division.  In 1985, she graduated from the 12th DPS Academy to become a State Peace Officer.  She met Jeff Driscoll at Capitol Police, and they married on May 10, 1986.  In July of 1987, they were assigned to Dyersville, Iowa with the Iowa State Patrol.  In 2007, she transferred to the Division of Criminal Investigation, until retirement in January of 2019.

She enjoyed baking chocolate chip cookies and apple pies, horseback riding, traveling to the Caribbean, and spending time with family and friends.  She also enjoyed watching sports, including Nebraska Volleyball, and simply being outside.

Although they had opportunities to leave Dyersville, they loved the community and passed up those opportunities, choosing to stay in the area.

Survivors include her loving husband of 37 years, Jeff; children: Cara (Joe) Recker of New Vienna, Marissa (Ethan) Brehm of Dyersville and Devon (Becca) Driscoll of Marshalltown; grandchildren: Willow, Wynnie and Ford Recker, and expecting two babies Brehm and Driscoll; mother, Mary Cornelius; siblings: Keith, Jr. (Laura) Cornelius of Council Bluffs, IA, Tina (Kent) Sachau of Humphrey, NE, Kerri (Lynn) Stallbaum of Martinsburg, NE, Julie (Joe) Leekley of Kingsley, IA and Carol (Jim) Millage of Russell, IA; parents-in-law: Tim and Mary Driscoll of Dyersville, sisters-in-law, Julie (Randy) Bauer of Walford, IA and Sheri (Tim) Rice of Lehigh Acres, FL.

She was preceded in death by father, Keith, Sr. and nephew, Bradley Bauer.

Amy was a believer in Catholic education so memorials are preferred to St. Francis Xavier School, Beckman Catholic High School and Hospice of Dubuque.

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.

Cheryl L. Andresen

Cheryl “Cherie” L. Andresen, 71, of Bernard, Iowa passed away on the early morning of Saturday July 8th, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Per her and the family wishes there will be no funeral or visitation. The family instead wishes for you to remember Cherie and all the good times spent with her.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Cherie was born on June 8th, 1952, in Davenport, Iowa, daughter of Edwin “Ed” and Edna (Forbes) Rauch. She had an older brother Edwin Jr. “Butch” he precedes her in death; and two younger sisters who survive her, Kim and Lisa. She attended and was a graduate of Davenport Central High School class of 1970.  She worked for 30 years at Oscar Mayer as a computer processor before retiring in 2001. It was there that she met the love of her life and future husband, Dave. After retirement, the two moved permanently to Leisure Lake in Bernard, Iowa to enjoy a simple life.

In 1972 Cherie welcomed her daughter who was her pride and joy into the world and then in 2000 her granddaughter Abbie was born who became her best friend, partner in crime and the apple of her eye. That was her girl.

Cherie enjoyed spending time with her girls, whether in person or for hours on end over the phone. She was the best at listening and caring. As a wife, grammie, and mom, she held all the answers. She was a master shopper who lit up any mall from the moment she walked in. She was a huge Iowa Hawkeye fan and watched all the football and basketball games passionately with her husband. You could hear her cheers from far across the lake. She loved being with her rescue dog, little Aimee.  And enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, watching game shows and old reruns from earlier years, and, of course, checking out all the scoop on Facebook.

She is survived by her husband David R. Andresen, daughter Juli R. (Mark A Howard) Andresen-Howard, and granddaughter Abbie L. Howard.

She was proceeded in death by her brother, mother and father, aunt, grandfather and her grandmother, whom she held dear to her heart.

She was a remarkable woman who loved deeply and was deeply loved back and will forever be missed and, in our hearts, forever.

Condolences can be made by sharing a story of Cherie on her Facebook page for her family to cherish forever.

Melvin R. Randolph

Melvin R. Randolph, 92, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 13, 2023, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa.

Melvin Robert Randolph was born July 2, 1931 in McCausland, Iowa, to James and Frieda (Klemme) Randolph.  He attended and graduated from Delmar High School in 1949.  He then entered the military serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict from 1954 to 1956.  After receiving an honorable discharge, he married the love of his life, Mabel Singelmann on March 18, 1956 in Delmar, Iowa.  They then started farming the homestead and Melvin also worked construction.

Melvin loved farming, raising livestock, and going to the casino.  He was a member of the Maquoketa Masonic Helion Lodge #36 AF & AM, Camanche Masonic Lodge #60, Clinton Scottish Rite, Eastern Star, Farm Bureau, and the Delmar Methodist Church.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mabel Randolph of Delmar, IA; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, two brothers, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. The service will begin with a Masonic Service followed by the funeral.  Visitation will be held prior to all services beginning at 10 A.M.  Burial with military honors will be at 1:30 P.M., Tuesday, at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Delmar Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar United Methodist Church, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

William L. Kessler

William L. “Bill” Kessler, 87, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2023, at home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 17, 2023, at St. Rose of Lima Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call from 2-6:00 p.m. Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Cuba City, where there will be a Parish Rosary Service at 1:40 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Monday at the church prior to the service.

Bill was born on February 7, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Louis and Glendoris (Callahan) Kessler. He graduated from Loras Academy in 1954. He then attended Bayless Business College and Loras College. Bill served in the United States Army for three years during the Korean Conflict. He was united in marriage to Kathleen M. “Kay” Wedig on May 19, 1956, at St. Peter’s Church in Elk Grove, Wisconsin.

Bill worked at John Deere Tractor Works for 15 years, Metropolitan Life Insurance for six years, and the Insurance Center for 17 years. He was involved at Siegert Funeral Home for six years and ran Cole Acres Golf and Supper Club for one year. Bill was a sales representative for J.P. Vincent Monument for over 50 years and was actively involved in numerous organizations. He was a devoted member of the Knights of Columbus 4^th Degree and Honor Guard, serving as Grand Knight, financial secretary and treasurer for the Knights of Columbus Council 765. He received the Knights of Columbus Medallion Award. Bill was a member of the Galena Elks Club and Apostolate to the Handicapped with the Diocese of Madison for over 50 years. For 20 years, he served on the Cuba City Annual Picnic Committee, the St. Rose Cemetery Committee, and was a faithful member of St. Rose of Lima Parish. Bill was a member of the Dubuque Businessmen’s Association and Tri-State Area Notre Dame Club, where he served as president. He was a proud member of the Cuba City American Legion, Post 104 and was part of a Veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington, D.C.

Above all, Bill loved his family and they loved him. They enjoyed their family vacations and he never missed a sporting or music event for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kay” Kessler, Cuba City; three daughters, Kim (Kenneth) Heinrichs, Belmont, WI, Kitzie (Marty) Tashner, Cuba City, and Kara (Terry) Rizer, Georgetown; four sons, Kevin (Debbie) Kessler, Lewisville, TX, Chris (Linda Casiano) Kessler, Madison, WI, Kurt (Tiffany) Kessler, Bristow, VA, and Kory (Sue) Kessler, Dubuque, IA; a son-in-law, Ken Engelke, New Glarus, WI; a sister, Mary Lou Powell, Dubuqe, IA; 30 grandchildren; and 35 great-grandchildren, with one on the way.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Kellie Engelke; a sister, Glenann (Roger) Slade; a brother-in-law, Jack Powell; and two grandchildren, Blake and Bridget Tashner.

 In lieu of flowers, a William L. Kessler Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI 53807.

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

Thomas H. Mercker

Thomas H. “Thom” Mercker, age 65, of Galena, IL, unexpectedly completed his earthly journey on June 30, 2023, at home.  No public service has been immediately planned by his family, but they intend to have one in Galena to honor his life at an appropriate time in the coming months.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Thom’s family.

Thom was born on August 2, 1957, in Lafayette, IN, the youngest of five boys to Henry J. and Mary C. (Witcher) Mercker.  Thom was naturally gifted with a decisive and divergent mind, a calmness under pressure, and a personal drive that he carried throughout his entire life.  Thankfully, these traits fit quite comfortably with his career of 31 years as an air traffic controller. He spent the majority of those years with his friends and coworkers at the Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center in Aurora, IL.  Thom thoroughly enjoyed his work and faithfully gave his best until his very last day on the job.  In his free-time, Thom could regularly be found enjoying a nice ride on his Harley when a sunny day arrived, or in recent years, generously sharing his “Jack of All Trades” time and talents with the folks at the Safe Haven Animal Shelter.  Thom also enjoyed spending time with his friends at the V.F.W, the Legion Hall, and the Elk’s Lodge when time allowed.  He found great joy in volunteering and never met a need that he wasn’t willing to address when someone asked.  The world is surely a lesser place today without Thom’s love and friendship walking among us, and thankfully, he leaves behind an abundance of wonderful memories for all who knew and loved him to reflect upon during the more difficult moments ahead.  Thank you, Thom, for being the kind of man those around you needed most and may the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Thom include,

his two children,
Heather Mercker, Minneapolis, MN,
and Travis (Natalie) Mercker, Dayton, OH;

his two grandchildren,
T.J. and Grace Mercker, Dayton, OH:

his four brothers,
Larry (Kathleen) Mercker, Sarasota, FL,
Ed (Mary) Mercker, Boulder City, NV,
Bill (Bobbie) Mercker, Bourbonnais, IL,
and Jim (Paula) Mercker, Port Richie, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Thom was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Thom’s name to the Safe Haven Humane Society, 1471 US 20 West, Elizabeth, IL, 61028.

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

Marjorie E. Granahan

Marjorie E. (Engelhardt) Granahan, 90, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at her home surrounded by her family.  Memorial Service will be 11:00 am, Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 10:00 am until service time.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

A celebration of life in Eugene’s and Marjorie’s memory will follow the burial at Potter’s Mill in Bellevue.

Marjorie was born July 10, 1933 in Howard County, Iowa, the daughter of Arthur S. and Mary E. (Olson) Engelhardt.  She married Eugene D. Granahan on October 5, 1957 at St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in Chester, Iowa, he passed on April 24, 2020.  The family lived in the country south of Bellevue from 1970 until moving into town in 1976. Marjorie and Gene did at home day care for many years. She was a longtime member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

Survivors include her children; Gerry (Pam) Granahan of Loveland, CO, Barbara Schroeder of Bellevue, and Gayle (Kevin) Smith of North Myrtle Beach, SC; grandchildren, Timothy, Erin, Michael, Christopher (Ashlee Burger), Steven (Jessica), and Timothy (Sarah); great-grandchildren, Jakob, Eloise, Ethan, Levi, and Cameron; brothers and sisters in-law; Dorothy (Patrick) Hurley, Joe, Bill (Karen), Tom, and Don (Donna) Granahan.

Marjorie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings, Delmar, Abner, Myron, Leo, Howard, Harry, Carl, Arthur, Orville, and Ione.

A memorial fund has been established in Marjorie’s memory.

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

James McNamara

James “Jim/Mac” McNamara, 78, died July 12, 2023, peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones after a short battle with cancer. Mass of Christian burial will be on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at 10:30 AM at St. Anthony Catholic Church, with the Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating, and Msgr. Jim Miller as concelebrant.  Friends may greet the family from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, Saturday at the church.  Private family burial will be held in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Mac was the son of William “Bill” McNamara and Margaret (Kayser) McNamara.  He was born in Independence, Iowa on July 29, 1944.  He graduated from Rowley High School and the University of Iowa.  He worked 45 years at John Deere Dubuque Works as an Engineer.  He ended his career as the Vehicle Electrification Program Manager.  He met Mary Jo Brennan at John Deere.  They were later married at St. Anthony Church.  They were married for 42 years.  He was a faithful husband, father, son, and friend.

Mac was a long-time member of St Anthony Church.  He volunteered on the St. Anthony Parish Council, various committees and as a mass greeter.

Mac was the fifth generation of McNamaras on the family’s Buchanan County farm.  His lifelong love was the farm.

He was an obsessive learner and sought to be an expert on chosen disciplines.  He had a passion for golf and studied all aspects of the sport.  He belonged to multiple local leagues.  In retirement he could be found hitting balls daily at Derby Grange. He enjoyed skiing and being a part of Sundown’s Adult Race League.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; four children, Matthew, Lisa, Luke (Sara), and Jessie; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and two siblings, Jane Ann West and Robert (Patricia) McNamara.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Jerry McNamara; and brother-in-law, Gary West.
Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their tender care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque and St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Roxann M. Woolf

Roxann Marie Woolf, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at Bethany Home Retirement Center.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, July 17, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Roxann will be 10:00 am Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Chad Woolf officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Roxann was born June 14, 1956, in Independence, Iowa, the daughter of Carl Henry and Margie June Nauholz. She was a graduate of West Central Community High School in Maynard, IA, and later became a Registered Nurse. On June 18, 1977, she married Gary David Woolf at the American Lutheran Church in Jesup, Iowa.

Roxann worked as a Registered Nurse at Mercy Medical Center and Medical Associates.

She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren, watching movies, and listening to music (with a special love for Kenny Rogers and Engelbert Humperdinck).

Survivors include her son, Jeremy (Wendy) Woolf of Dubuque; one daughter, Krista (Morgan) Carpenter of Minneapolis, MN; four grandchildren, Cooper and Caplan Woolf, and Lachlan and Callum Carpenter; one brother, Mark (Lori) Nauholz of Cedar Rapids, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Gary, on December 19, 2021.

Her family would like to thank the wonderful and caring staff of Bethany Home Retirement Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

A memorial has been established.

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

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

Martin R. Erner

Martin R. (Ron) Erner, 72, of Hanover, IL., formerly of Menominee, IL., passed away on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 at Ennoble Nursing and Rehab in Dubuque, IA.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish Prayer Service will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday.  There will also be a visitation from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. on Monday at the Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 17^th at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating.  Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

Ron was born on November 20, 1950, at Hazel Green, WI., the son of Melvin W. and Mary Jean (Martin) Erner. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U. S. Army.

He was formerly employed by Holland Plumbing and Heating of Galena, IL., until his retirement.  Ron was a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters Local # 23 of Rockford, IL, and a member of Van Bibber-Hansen American Legion Post # 148 of Savanna, IL.

Ron loved hunting, fishing, traveling out west to the mountains, ATVing and time spent with his sons and grandchildren.  A great honor for Ron was when he went on the Veteran’s Honor Flight to Washington, D. C. in 2022.

Surviving are two sons, Bill (Abbie) Erner of Asbury, IA., and Chad (Katie) Erner of Hazel Green, WI.; three grandchildren, Joshua, Nathan and Cheyenne Erner; the mother of his children, Sue Schlarman; his siblings, Madonna (Tim) Heller of East Dubuque, Dan Erner (Kathy Hill) of Lena, Melanie (Rod) Wichman of Baileyville, and Michelle (Doug) Wybourn of Lena; two nieces, three nephews; one great-niece, two great-nephews; as well as several close friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Mary Jean Erner.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Doctors and Nurses at the V. A. Clinic in Freeport, IL, and to the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor Nursing and Rehab in Dubuque, IA for the wonderful care provided for their father.

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

Orben J. Busch

Orben J. Busch, 100, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on Saturday evening, July 8, 2023, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Orben John Busch was born on August 25, 1922 in Jackson County, Iowa to John C.A. and Caroline (Kokemuller) Busch.  He grew up in the Nashville area on the family farm.  He served his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, earning an honorable discharge with a Good Conduct medal.

Upon returning home, he farmed in Jackson County and worked at Alcoa and retired from Farmall after many years.  He also delivered the Quad City Times newspaper for many years until the age of 90.  In retirement, he drove for Kimberly Chrysler and picked up cars all over Iowa and Illinois for maintenance service.  He also served as a caretaker of the Busch Cemetery for many years.

He married Dorothy Louise Barger on July 5, 1967 in Rock Island, Illinois.  She preceded him in death on October 23, 2022.

Orben was member of the American Legion Post #729.  He enjoyed family reunions, tinkering with cars and trucks, watching golf, country music, and doing donuts in the parking lot in the snow.

He was well loved by neighbors, friends, and family, and was a kind and gentle man with a beautiful smile.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Marlus (Bud) Pokorny of Davenport, IA, Laurie (Fred) Williams of Amboy, IL, Joe (Paula) Wesenberg of Reynolds, IL, Liz (John) Severns of Hereford, AZ, Dean (Donna) Dick of Davenport, IA, James (Sheila) Kent of Moline, IL, Kevin (Debbie) Busch of Lake Elsinore, CA, and Kit (Rebecca) Busch of Houston, TX; a daughter-in-law, Robbin (Kim’s wife) Busch of Indianapolis, IN; many grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Dorothy, a son Kim Busch, siblings Leona Westphal, Virtes Busch, Emmett Busch, Darlene Small, and Irene Wyatt, and a great-grandson Colin Breining.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12 P.M., Monday, July 17, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial with military honors will be at 2:30 P.M., Monday, at Busch Cemetery, rural Lost Nation, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Orben J. Busch memorial fund has been established.

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

Steve L. Heister

Steve L. Heister, 62, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 10, 2023, at home.

Steve L. Heister was born on May 4, 1961 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Morgan and Madonna (Manning) Heister. He was raised by his mother and stepdad Jim Clark. He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School and married Michelle Marie Feller in 1983 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Two children were born to this union, Katie, and Michael.  Michelle and Steve later divorced but remained friends.

Steve was a self-employed mechanic and owned and operated Steve’s Body Shop in Maquoketa for over 40 years.  He enjoyed building and fixing old cars, socializing with friends and family, and especially spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Steve is survived by his children, Katie (Jason) Dondlinger of Bellevue, IA, and Michael (Ryanne) Heister of Andrew, IA; 5 grandchildren, Jaden, Hailey, Chase, Jaymes, and Chloie; his father, Morgan Heister of Lisbon, IA; and brothers, David Heister of TX, Mike Heister of Zwingle, IA, Doug Clark of TX, and Marty Clark of Maquoketa, IA.  He was preceded in death by his mother and stepfather.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Steve’s life will be held on Friday, July 14, 2023, from 3 to 5 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  A private burial will be held at a later date at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Springbrook, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Steve L. Heister memorial fund has been established.

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

Irene A. Herrig

Irene A. Herrig, 96, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at Sunset Park Place surrounded by her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 14, 2023, at St. Donatus Catholic Church with Father Bob Gross officiating. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque is assisting the family.

Irene was born on April 29, 1927 in Dubuque, IA the daughter of Lawrence and Anne (Murray) Grant. She graduated from St. Columbkille High School in Dubuque. On September 9, 1950, she married Julian Herrig and together they shared 60 years of marriage and raised 5 children.

Irene enjoyed crocheting, baking, canning, gardening and playing cards. Most importantly she loved spending time with family and friends. Irene provided for her family day in and day out, serving three meals a day and keeping a perfect home. Although that may have been a challenge at times, she always kept up and did so with grace. The love she had for her family was unmatched and she will be dearly missed.

Irene is survived by her children, Joanne (Ron) Lenstra, of Dubuque, David (Judy) Herrig, of LaMotte, Roger Herrig, of Bernard, Janet Seberian, of Dubuque and Jean (Mark) Blatz of Dubuque; 15 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Julian in 2010; her brothers, Ambrose, Norbert, Loras and Raymond; her sisters, Dorothy Grant and Rita Kopp; and granddaughter, Jennifer Lenstra and great granddaughter Lauren Jean Herrig.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Sunset Park Place and the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided for Irene.

Vincent E. Decker

Vincent E. Decker, 92, of Zwingle, IA, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, July 10th, 2023, surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 16th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 12:45p.m  A mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 17th, 2023, at St. Joseph Church, Key West, with Father Martin Obeng officiating.  Entombment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West with full military honors to be accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Vince was born on February 26, 1931, in Bernard, Iowa, the son of John and Frances (Pfab) Decker.  He attended Feeney School in Key West and Loras Academy Highschool in Dubuque.  He was a lifelong member of St. Theresa Church, LaMotte, and St Joseph’s Church, Key West.

He married Evelyn Hansen on January 18, 1958, at St. Joseph Church in Key West, IA.  Vince was a lifelong farmer who worked on multiple family farms before buying his own farm in 1964 in Zwingle, IA.  Vince also served in the U.S. Army, Company C 14th Armored Cavalary (Half Track Driver), from July 1953 to May 1955, where he was stationed in Germany and worked at the Dubuque Packing Company.

Vince never stopped monitoring the crops and keeping the farm in tip-top shape.  He loved spending time with his family.  He was the sharpest of Euchre players and loved “going alone” even with the lousiest of hands!  He also spent many days with his grandchildren (they called him “Ducky”) playing cards and putting together puzzles!

His heart was always pure, innocent, and charming. He enjoyed the tiny moments in life. The jam/jelly on his bread. Hearing the sound of rain and saying, “Hear that?  The corn is growing!”  The bowl of cornflakes he had every night before bed. His favorite saying to the grandchildren is, “Watch out, be careful the Wookalars are going to get you.”  And whenever you asked him how he feels, he always said, “With my fingers.” All these things made him happy.

He taught us so many things that we will pass on to the generations to come. His journey is an inspiration to our family and others whose lives he touched. Vince will forever rest in our hearts. We love you and miss you. We always will.

Vince is survived by his wife of 65 years, Evelyn; children Jim (Laurie) Decker of Bellevue; Rick (Ann) Decker of Peosta; Randy (Joni) Decker of Dubuque; AJ Decker of Westland, MI; Kevin (Flery) Decker of Hillsboro, OR; Deb (Justin) Wymore of Cedar Rapids, IA; and Roger (Theresa) Decker of Palatine, IL. Grandchildren: Zachary (Megan) Decker, Tiffany (Jesse) Sorensen, Jakob Decker, Brandon Decker, Sydney (Jason) Bush, Dylan Decker, Holly (Sae Hyoung) Oh, Felicia (Nick) Forbus, Skye Decker, Justin Jr. (Kayley/fiance) Wymore, D’Evelyn (Cephas) Kaburu, David Decker, Kaili Decker, and Stephanie Decker.  Great grandchildren Sawyer, Tate, Charley, and Bella.Vince is also survived by his siblings, Hubert (Elizabeth) Decker of Cascade, Monica (Cletus) Thielen of Zwingle, Darlene Collins of Dubuque, John “JJ” (Erma) Decker of Dubuque, Louis (Darla) Decker of Zwingle, Melita (Virgil) Hansen of Maquoketa, Agnes “Fran” Decker, of Dubuque, Bernadine (Mark) Giese, of Dubuque, and Kenneth Decker, of Dubuque; sisters-in-law Veronica Hansen, Rita Hansen, Mary Young, and Pam LaPrell; brothers-in-law William Hansen.

 Vince was preceded in death by his parents, John Francis Decker and Frances (Pfab) Decker; his siblings Margaret Mary Decker, William Theodore Decker, William Nicholas Decker, Albert Joseph Decker, Raymond John Decker, and Harvey Joseph Decker; sisters-in-law Mary Decker, Calista Decker, Phyllis Decker, and Linda Andews; brothers-in-law Jim Collins, Celestine Hansen, Glenn Hansen, Kenneth Michael Hansen, John LaPrell, Dennis Young, and Bernie Andews.

In lieu of flowers, donations will be collected and given to Hospice of Dubuque and the American Heart Association.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Kenneth Steffen for all the loving care they gave to Vince and the family.

Thomas E. Brighton

Thomas E. Brighton, 74, of Monticello, Iowa passed away Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at his home, surrounded by his girls, due to complications of Agent Orange.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello.  Visitation will continue at Peace United Church of Christ from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will commence at 10 a.m. on Monday, July 17, 2023 at Peace United Church of Christ with burial to follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello, Iowa.  Pastor Frank Shepherd Jr. will officiate.

Tom was born April 15, 1949 in Monticello, Iowa, the son of Thomas A and Gladys (Tobias) Brighton.  He married Alice J. Takes on September 1, 1973 in Monticello, Iowa.

Tom graduated from Monticello High School in 1967 and was drafted into the US Army in 1969. Tom was a mortar gunner for the 2^nd/34^th Armor and received many awards during his time of service. Upon returning home from service, he returned to work for Energy Manufacturing Inc. in Monticello. He retired in 2005. His many hobbies included, photography, fishing, camping, and woodworking. Tom shared his love of softball through coaching and umpiring. He cherished time with his friends and family, especially attending his grandkid’s events.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 50 years, Alice; children: Ann (fiance, Derek Smith) Brighton of Oelwein, Brenda (Greg) Helmuth, Crystal (Justin) Cole, both of Maynard; grandchildren: Brennan Cole, Caylee Cole, Thomas Helmuth; siblings: Linda Rose of Anamosa, Karen Wadlington of Cedar Rapids, Roger (Pat) Brighton of Monticello; in-laws: L.J. Takes of Monticello, Jean Takes, Joan (Dan) Manternach, Pat Beckman, Mary Kay (Ron) Ackermann, all of Monticello, Carolyn (Jerry) Manternach of Anamosa, Darlene (Steve) Wilcox of Monticello, Sally (Jeff) Sawyers of Marshalltown, Tom (Mary) Takes of Cedar Rapids, Alan (Liz) Takes of Cascade, Carl (Jan) Takes of Anamosa, Charlie “Tuna” Takes of Monticello, Robbie Takes of Anamosa, Bill (Vicki) Takes of Monticello; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Lloyd and Elda (Otting) Takes; in-laws: Bob Rose, Dave Wadlington, Joe Takes, Marie Takes, and Loretta Beckman.

The family would like to thank the staff at Above & Beyond Hospice for their compassionate care.

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, Iowa 52310.

Edna E. Schiel

Edna Eleanor Schiel, 95, of Dubuque, passed away July 10, 2023 at home.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00p.m., Thursday, July 13, 2023 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque, IA 52002, with a parish wake service at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 14, 2023 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Edna was born on June 9, 1928 to Joseph A. and Clara (Udelhoven) Siegert in Dubuque, Iowa.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1946 as valedictorian of her class.

Edna was united in marriage to Robert R. Frank on November 13, 1948. He passed away on June 15, 1975. She later married Eldon Schiel on October 6, 1979. He passed away on June 16, 2006.

Edna was employed at West Third Oral Surgery for 27 years, retiring on August 1, 1995.

She was a life-long member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

After retirement Edna volunteered at Finley Hospital, Mercy Hospital, the American Red Cross, and St. Anthony’s Rectory.

Edna is survived by her six children; Dennis (Sheila) Frank of Dubuque, David (Tina) Frank of Trinidad, CO, Dan (Sue) Frank of Dubuque, Debra Crumrine of Dubuque, Diane (Brian) Drozda of Asbury, and Donna (Leo) McMahon of Dubuque; step-children, Virginia (Phil) Reinhard of Rockford, Illinois, Robert Schiel of South Carolina, and Jane (Jim) LaBee of Plainfield, Illinois, grandchildren; Tricia (Junior) Leusmen, Jason Frank, Andy Frank, Marty (Brittni) Frank, Lisa Frank, Lora (Kevin) Halfhill, Travis and Brent Crumrine, Brian Frank, Mike (Maryann) McKernan, Philip (Jenni) McKernan, Daniel (Carmen) McMahon, and Kayla (Travis) Freese; grandchild-in-law, Wendy McKernan; great grandchildren, Ethan, Brighton, Lainey, Grace, Gavin, Darnell, Lydia, Colin, Carter, Cooper, Morgan, Liam, Jordan, Logan, Elliott, Maxwell, Jax, Tucker, and Jade.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her two husbands, her grandson Robert McKernan, her great granddaughter Emma in infancy, and seven siblings Walter (Clara) Siegert, Earl (Loraine) Siegert, Joseph (Boots) Siegert, Leonard (Ann) Siegert, Marie (Joseph) Kress, Eileen (Vincent) Bahl, and Rita (Charles) Schmitt.

Edna’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care and compassion given to Edna.

Memorials may be given to St. Anthony’s Church, 1870 St. Ambrose Street, Dubuque, IA, 52001.

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