Obituaries Archive

Henry L. Holston

Henry L. “Bo” Holston, age 66, of Dubuque and formerly of Freeport, IL, passed away at 8:03 a.m., on Monday, May 1, 2023, at Harmony of Dubuque. To honor Bo’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m., on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.

Bo was born on October 28, 1956, in Canton, Mississippi, son of Robert Earl Holston and Oneta Powell.

Bo grew up and attended school in Canton, MS. The family eventually moved to Chicago, and in the early 1970’s, Bo joined the U.S. Army to honorably serve his country. When his time with the service was over, Bo went to work as a mechanic with the US Postal service for over 15 years until his retirement. Bo had many interests in his free time. He loved music and played lead guitar with several bands in Chicago and Mississippi. Bo also enjoyed riding his motorcycle. He was very disciplined in his practice of martial arts. We will miss Bo tremendously, but find some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully, free of the health issues he has faced these past months.

Those left to cherish Bo’s memory include

his daughter,
Tamika Holston, Miami, FL;

his grandchildren,
Brittany Holston, Tywand Render, Terrick Huttoe, Dewon Hamilton, Demesha Hamilton and Daniah Hamilton;

a host of great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Betty Silas, Chicago, IL,
Woodroe (Sara) Silas, Canton, MS,
Mary Holston, Apple River, IL,
Willie (Angie) Holston, Vallejo, CA,
John (Lindell) Holston, Dubuque, IA
and James (Marilyn) Holston, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Bo was preceded in death by his parents; and a son, Henry Burel.

Bo’s family would like to thank Dr. Caceres and the nurses and staff that have helped care for Bo at ProMedica, especially Joseph, Alyssa, Alicia, Kim and Abby. Also a special thanks to everyone at Hospice of Dubuque.

Dear Brother,

Sadly, you are no longer here; however, your kind spirit remains very near. The loving memories of you will be forever treasured within our hearts.

To us you were precious and dear, always willing to lend an ear. Your smile was warm and bright, but you could also produce a frown, which would cause a bit of fright.

You are one in a million, our humble and fun-loving brother who we loved so dear. Life without you will not be the same, for now we must bear some pain.

We will always cherish your memory. In this family you are an irreplaceable part, out of sight, but never out of mind, forever will you live in our Heart!

We Love you in this world & the next,

The Brothers & the Sisters ♥♥♥

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Bo’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Henry Holston Family.

William F. Freiburger

William F. Freiburger, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 24th, 2023, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.

A private service will be held at a later date. Burial in Mount Olivet Cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

William was born on October 29, 1945, Dubuque, IA the son of John “Jack” and Harriet (Savary) Freiburger.

He worked many years at Caradco in Dubuque, upon their closing, he was self-employed doing snow removal, lawncare and maintenance. He was honorably discharged from the US Navy.

He is survived by his daughter Michelle (Steve Hopkins) Freiburger, of Mesa, AZ, siblings; John (Karen) Freiburger, Charlotte Hanson, Mary Freiburger and Helen Freiburger, all of Dubuque. Many nieces and nephews along with several great nieces and nephews

William was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Rose Freiburger, brothers James Freiburger and Charles Freiburger, brother-in-law Lawrence Hanson, niece Deborah Yoder and former wife Mariella Freiburger

Condolences for the family can be left with Leonard Funeral Home or on William’s obituary on the funeral home’s website leonardfuneralhome.com.

Scott A. Smith

Scott A. Smith, 67, of Dubuque, IA passed away Saturday, April 29, 2023, at MercyOne Medical Center surrounded by loved ones.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 5th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 6th, 2023, at the funeral home with Deacon John Stierman officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

Scott was born on March 13, 1956, in Dubuque, IA to Robert & Madelyn (Beyhl) Smith.

After high school Scott joined the Navy where he was a MR2 & worked on the USS Dixie AD-14 from 1975- 1978. Scott had many jobs, but he was widely known as a do-it-all handyman. If he didn’t know how to repair or build something he wasn’t afraid to put in the work to learn how to do so. His basement was his own little shop where he would spend free time on his projects. He was a family man and prioritized always being there for his kids. He loved the Packers & Hawkeyes, spending time on his boat, and took immense pride in his truck.

On February 22nd, 2022, Scott took Deborah Theis’ hand in marriage after 10 years of dating. Scott loved spending time with Deb whether it was doing yard work or just sitting around a fire drinking Busch Light. She truly brought out the best in him.

He is survived by his two children Shane Smith and Taylor (Reggie) Paar; his wife Deborah; stepson Kelly Hoffmann (Niki Launspach); siblings Bob (Sandy) Smith; Lynn (Lynn) Smith; Kevin (Ann) Smith; Terry (Janice) Smith; and Cathy (Bobby) Morley.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Madelyn, sisters Diane Breitbach and Mary Wright, brother Jerry Smith, and brother-in-law Dave Wright.

The family sends its thanks to the first responders, doctors, staff, and all others at Mercy Medical Center ICU & ER.

Sr. Mary Jo Keane, BVM

Sister Mary Jo Keane, BVM, (Martin Mary), 88, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1040 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Friday, April 28, 2023, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 5, 2023, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Mary Jo was a high school teacher in Chicago, St. Louis, and Burbank, Calif. She ministered as a social worker in the Chicago Public Schools. She served the congregation as office staff in Dubuque, Iowa, and office manager in Los Gatos, Calif.

She was born Sept. 6, 1934, in Chicago to Martin and Catherine (Rowland) Keane. She entered the BVM congregation Aug. 2, 1959, from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on Feb. 2, 1962, and final vows on July 16, 1967.

She was preceded in death by her parents, stepfather Thomas Hoban, sister Patricia (Harold “Bing”) Carlson, and brother-in-law George Wendell. She is survived by a sister Catherine “Kay” Wendell, Scottsdale, Ariz.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 63 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is in charge of arrangements.

Dale A. Griffin

Dale A. “Grub” Griffin, age 68, of Dickeyville, WI, completed his earthly journey on April 30, 2023, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA.  To honor Dale’s life, a Gathering of Remembrance will be held from 4:00-8:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 4, 2023, at PJ’s Pub and Hall, 3670 County HHH, Kieler, WI.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dale’s family.

Dale was born on November 15, 1954, in Staten Island, N.Y. a son to Robert and Betty (McCoy) Griffin.  He retired from Krusers in Dickeyville.  His favorite past times were playing music, hunting, fishing, cooking, morel hunting, and anything outdoors; especially if it included riding his Harley with his friends.  Dale played in many bands in the area most of his life.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dale include,

his mother,
Betty Griffin;

his son,
Timmy Griffin;

his siblings,
Tim (Kathy) Griffin,
Russ (Kris) Griffin,
Dick (Ruth) Griffin,
Julie Griffin,
and Caroline (Mary Labrecht) Griffin;

along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, and many good friends.

Dale was preceded in death by his father, Robert Griffin; and his niece, Holly (Griffin) Amunson.

Dale’s family would like to thank all of his family and friends who have continually reached out to provide comfort during this very difficult time.  They would also like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Kay E. Auderer

Kay E. Auderer, 76, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Chandler Medical Center in Chandler, AZ, with her loving husband and Arizona family by her side.

A prayer service will be held at 3:45 pm on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kay will be 10:30 am Monday, May 8, 2023, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Kay was born March 21, 1947, in Peoria, IL, the daughter of Maynard P. and Janice F. (Turk) Cullen. On June 29, 1968, she married Roger Auderer at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Fennimore, Wisconsin.

Kay graduated from Fennimore High School in 1965. She then furthered her education at Mercy Medical Center School of Nursing, graduating in 1969 and later graduating from the University of Dubuque with her Bachelor’s Degree in 1984.

Kay was a longtime member of St. Anthony Catholic Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. She also volunteered at Dubuque Rescue Mission.

Kay worked for Mercy Medical Center for 37 years in many capacities. At the time of her retirement she was working as Accreditation Coordinator. Kay was also one of the original members and vice chair of the Dubuque Regional AIDS coalition. In 2006 Kay was voted one of “100 Great Iowa Nurses”.

Kay loved cayenne pepper, reading, NASCAR, and was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. Kay also enjoyed cooking and was very good at it; she was even voted Ms. Betty Crocker in high school. Above all, Kay treasured her time spent with family and the winters spent in Arizona with Roger.

Survivors include her husband of 54 years, Roger Auderer of Dubuque; son, Scott (Tammy) Auderer of Ankeny, IA; two granddaughters, Lauryn and Alexa Auderer of Ankeny, IA; sister, Mary Wright of Mesa, AZ; sister-in-law, Pam Cullen of South Milwaukee, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Jim Cullen; and brother-in-law, Danny Wright.

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 Kay’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Vernon Kluesner

Vernon Kluesner, 73, of Dubuque, died Monday, May 1, 2023, at his home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, May 5, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Vernon will be 10:30 am Saturday, May 6, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant.

Vernon was born in Farley, Iowa on October 29, 1949, the son of Joseph and Verena (Wulfekuhle) Kluesner. On September 20, 1969, he married the love of his life, Jacqueline Lanser in Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Vernon graduated from St. Joseph High School in Farley, IA, in 1967. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years. After retiring, he delivered paint for Sherwin Williams. Vernon was a lifetime member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and a proud member of the UAW. He was a true outdoorsman as he enjoyed fishing, deer and turkey hunting, morel hunting, and caring for his cabin and acreage in Northeastern Iowa. Vernon also enjoyed playing cribbage and cards, taking trips to the casino, bowling and playing softball.  He cherished time with his family and was the head cook at the Annual Kluesner fish fry.

Survivors include his wife, Jacqueline; two sons, Brad Kluesner of Rockford, IL and Jeff (Twila) Kluesner of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Michael Randall of Dubuque, Emma Kluesner of Yorkville, IL, Peyton Imhof of Dubuque, and Brennan Imhof of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

He is further survived by his siblings, Daniel Kluesner of Farley, Dianne (Bruce) Batteram of Hazel Green, WI, Robert (Karla) Kluesner of Farley, Edwin (Mary) Kluesner of Farley, Therese (Jerry) Renz of Earlville, Barb Kluesner of Marion, Craig Kluesner of Farley, Cyril (Amy) Kluesner of Dubuque, Rosie (Daryl) Nurre of Petersburg, IA, Lois (Rich) Wubben of Galena, IL, Sil (Karen) Kluesner of Marion; brothers- and sisters-in-law, James (Ann) Lanser of Dubuque, Jean Gross of Otter Creek, IA, Judy (TC) Christianson, John (Jeanne) Lanser, Joan (Bob) Gansemer, Joyce (John) Hirsch, Jane (Dan) Tressel, Joseph (Beulah) Lanser, Jerry (Carla) Lanser, Janann Oertel, and Jay (Shelley) Lanser, all of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Allen and Ernie; his father and mother-in-law, Daniel and Jeanette; and nephew, Ryan Wubben.

A special thank you Hospice of Dubuque especially, Angela and Stephanie and the Mayo Clinic for their love and support.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Delain M. Allen

Delain M. Allen, 96, of Dubuque, passed away May 2, 2023 at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be from 10:00a.m.-12:00p.m., Thursday, May 4, 2023 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Funeral services will immediately follow at 12:00p.m. at the funeral home, with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Delain was born on June 1, 1926, to Alexander and Anna (Wagner) Harvey in Dubuque, Iowa.

She was united in marriage to Raymond Alva Allen on August 24, 1946, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on September 24, 2006.

Delain was employed with the Adams Company for several years.

Delain and Raymond owned and operated the Siesta Motel for many years. They were also longtime members of Tri-State Travelers.

Delain is survived by her children, Dale R. (Janet Wolff) Allen, Donald R. (Lori) Allen, and daughter-in-law, Mary Allen; grandchildren, Jeff (Rachel) Allen, Kerry (Mike) Rueter, James (Lynn) Allen, Lisa Burleson, Stephanie (Jake) Vyverberg, Courtney Allen, Sam (fiancée Alex) Allen; 15 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Raymond; son, David; in-laws; and her infant brother, Lester L. Harvey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Hospice of Dubuque, or Stonehill Communities.

Delain’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to all her family and friends who helped Delain through the challenges over the last 10 years. They wish to especially thank Felishia, Rachael, Trissity, Robin, Madison, and all the staff of the Memory Care Unit at Stonehill Communities, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Thomas P. Billmeyer

Thomas P. Billmeyer, 68, of Dubuque died Monday May 1st. In keeping with Tom’s wishes, there will be no funeral service.

Tom was born May 21st, 1954, in Dubuque, son of Gilbert and Maureen (Blocker) Billmeyer. He retired from A.Y. McDonald and enjoyed music, travel, metal detecting, fast cars, woodworking and spending time with friends and family.

He is survived by two children Zoey Billmeyer of West Chester Iowa and John (Michelle) Pokorny of Rockton IL, brother Richard Billmeyer of Dubuque, IA, and sisters Mary Beth Rupert of Naperville IL, and Colleen (Troy) Martens of Cedar Rapids, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Gilbert and Maureen Billmeyer, and a sister, Carol Tjon-A-Joe.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Cecilia M. Hager

Cecilia M. (Kueter) Hager, 90, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2023, at her home in Henderson, NV.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, IA, at 11 AM on Friday, May 5, 2023, with visitation from 10-11 AM. The Rite of Committal and Burial will follow at the Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island, IL, where she will be laid to rest alongside her husband, Lorin.

Cecilia was born on January 18, 1933, in rural Bellevue to John and Millie (Sieverding) Kueter. She grew up on the family farm and graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Bellevue. She married Lorin J. Hager on October 6, 1953, and they were joyfully married for over 67 years. Together they raised 5 children. Lorin passed away in 2021.

Cecilia’s life was devoted to lovingly raising her family, supporting her friends and neighbors, and service to her community. After living in Bellevue for many years, the family moved to Burlington, IA, for Lorin’s job with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After ending his career back in Bellevue, they retired to Pahrump, NV, and later relocated to Henderson, NV.

After high school, Cecilia was a nurses’ aide at the Bellevue Hospital. She was also instrumental in setting up the American Red Cross swimming lesson program at the Bellevue swimming pool. As an accomplished seamstress, she sewed many suits for Lorin, intricately beaded wedding gowns for her daughters Paula and Kay, wedding attendant dresses, beautiful banners and priests’ vestments for St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and their church in Pahrump, and many garments and other items for family and people in the community. She altered wedding gowns at Schramm’s in Burlington and at several other bridal shops. During this past year, she created a personalized “hugs and kisses” quilt for each of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Cecilia enjoyed spending time with family, needle crafts, flower gardening, playing the piano, reading, playing cards and dominoes, doing puzzles, and socializing with friends and neighbors. She was active in her Catholic parishes and her faith in Jesus Christ will live on in her legacy.

Cecilia is survived by her 5 children – Paula Miller (Steve), Mary Brown (Dave), Sarah Witter (Jeff), Kay Auer (Joe), and Mark Hager (Lisa) – 10 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren with 2 more on the way; sisters Cleta Herrig (Harold) and Elaine Schumacher; sisters-in-law Imelda Kueter, Armella Kueter, Bernice Ehlers, and Carol Hager; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her husband, Lorin, her parents, brothers Paul, Mike (Mary), Greg, and Nester; great grandson Bennett Feldman, and her father/mother-in-law, Raymond and Sedalia (Jacobs) Hager.

Memorial contributions may be directed to:

Camp Courageous of Iowa, 12007 190th Street, PO Box 418, Monticello, IA 52310 or https://campcourageous.org/donate-now/

ChildServe-Johnston, 5406 Merle Hay Road, Johnston, IA 50131 or https://www.childserve.org/donate/

Penelope A. Shultz

Penelope “Penny” Anne Shultz, 3-day-old infant daughter of Jacob and Anna (Jochum) Shultz, passed away on April 28, 2023, at 4:15 a.m. in Madison, Wisconsin.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 5th, 2023 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. David Schatz officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:30 a.m. at the church until the time of mass. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Penny was born on April 25, 2023, at 2:39 p.m. in Madison, Wisconsin, daughter to proud parents Jacob and Anna (Jochum) Shultz. She was loved the moment she entered this world- not only by her family, but also by every person she encountered. Despite her many challenges, she brought joy to her mother and father, and was a fighter to the very end.

Penny was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by her parents Jacob and Anna Shultz, grandparents Rick and Andrea Jochum of Dubuque, Cynthia Henert of Asbury, and Eric Shultz of Iowa City, uncle Samuel Jochum, aunts Adeline Jochum and Lily Jochum, all of Dubuque, and great-grandparents Juan Lampe of Dubuque, Donna Jochum of Dubuque, and Janet Henert of St. Louis, MO.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her great grandparents Ernest and Emma Shultz, Earl Lampe, Gary Jochum and Verlis Henert, and her uncle Nicholas Shultz.

The family would like to thank the UnityPoint Meriter staff in Madison, Wisconsin with the American Family Children’s Hospital staff for their loving care to Penny and her family during her fight. They would also like to thank Rev. Andrew McAlpin, Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Fr. David Schatz, and the St. Columbkille Parish for their support and prayers.

In lieu of flowers, a Penelope Shultz Memorial Fund will be established.

Janet A. Menadue

Janet A. Menadue, 82, of Dubuque, died Sunday, April 30, 2023, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Janet will be 10:00 am Friday, May 5, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Janet was born May 7, 1940, in Dubuque, the daughter of Frank C. and Evelyn (Snooks) Wieland. On January 25, 1986, she married Thomas Donald Menadue in Dubuque.

Janet graduated from East Rockford High School in Rockford, Illinois, class of 1958.  She worked for the Department of Human Services for twenty eight years. Janet enjoyed a full life with her beloved husband Tom  She learned to love the river, especially teaching all of the grandchildren how to fish.  Tom and Janet enjoyed their traveling seeing many exciting site the world has to offer. She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, and was involved in the CEW community.  She loved the opportunity to serve Jesus by serving others.

Survivors include her husband of 38 years, Thomas Menadue of Dubuque; children, Craig “CJ” (Nancy) Pape, Brian (Brenda) Pape, Dan (Mindee) Pape, Suzanne Marie Pape and Tracey (Jeff) Winsett all of Dubuque; daughters, Lisa Popp of Hartford, WI and Tammie (Darryl) Eggers of Kieler, WI; nine-grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Nancy Hubanks.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the nurses and staff at Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to Hospice of Dubuque.

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

James R. Perry

James Russell Perry, 93, Platteville, WI, died at 7 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, at Southwest Health Hospital in Platteville, WI.

Born Dec. 24, 1929 in Parsons, KS, he was the son of Russell (Helen) Perry.  He was a John Deere machinist and self-employed mechanic that served the Tri-state area for decades before moving to Texas and Arizona after retirement.  He was active in truck pulling for many years and also enjoyed traveling with his wife, Rita Perry, all over the country.

Surviving are his four sons, James Perry, Potosi, WI.; Rod (Lisa) Perry, Onalaska, WI.; William (Joelle) Mohr, Fishers, IN.; and Stephen (Alicia) Mohr, Stockbridge, GA; eight grandchildren, Mandi Lynn and Bradley James Perry, Emily (Nate) Perry, Truman Stephen and Cooper Michael Mohr, and Rachel Elizabeth, Caroline Rose and Lydia Jane Mohr; one great grandchild, Elliot Ganrude; and long-time friends Jim Dolan and Jerry Bode.  He was preceded in death by his wife Rita, his parents, Russell and Helen, and his brother Robert.

The family would like to thank the staff at Sienna Crest Assisted Living and Southwest Health Hospital for their exceptional care and professionalism during this time.

A cookout will be held at Flora Park (Pennsylvania Pavilion) from noon to 2:00 p.m. on May 27th to celebrate Jim’s memory.

Online condolences for Jim’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Beverly A. Christensen

Beverly Ann Christensen, age 69, of Epworth, IA, completed her earthly journey suddenly on April 27, 2023, at MercyOne in Dubuque, IA.  To honor Beverly’s life, her Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 11:30 a.m., at the Sherrill United Methodist Church, 5501 South Mound Road, Sherrill, IA, with Dr. James Cummings officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in her Celebration of Life beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the church.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Beverly’s family.

Beverly was born on August 19, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Lawrence L. and Grace M. (Elgin) Davis.  She learned to take life one day at a time in her early years and was always up for the next adventure as life progressed. Beverly grew up surrounded by family and friends while spending many years on the farm in Sherrill and was a proud graduate of Hempstead High School.  Beverly was married to Darrell Christensen in 1971 and they were blessed with three children; Kevin Christensen, Marcia Christensen Dodds, and Michelle Christensen Davison.  Together they raised their three children in Bedford, Iowa and all three children graduated from Bedford High School.  Darrell and Beverly moved away from the Bedford area and sadly they were divorced.  Beverly moved to be closer to family and from those years on she traveled and moved to be close to her family and grandchildren.  Beverly touched the lives of so many through her jobs as sorority mom, medical field, food service, elderly home care, and education.  Beverly was gifted with a generous heart and whether it was donating her time, or quite often her delicious creations she enjoyed making in the kitchen to others, she was always content to know that she was having a positive impact on others.  Beverly could be found enjoying time with family and friends around the card table, visiting with others during her bible studies, or tending to her gardens with sunny skies overhead.  Her talents in the kitchen were legendary and the memories of her baking pies will surely continue to remain vivid in the minds of all who knew and loved her.  Beverly was a wonderful mother and grandmother who always wanted to be close to family and as her grandchildren arrived discovered even more joy in the time she was able to spend with them.  It breaks our hearts to think that our dear Beverly has been called home so suddenly from our daily lives.  We will seek peace in the abundance of beautiful memories which she leaves behind and know that one day we will see her bright smile once again.  Thank you, Beverly, for all that you did for others during your years among us and we pray that you are enjoying the safe and secure arms of your Lord and Savior.  May God bless and keep you until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Beverly include,

her three loving children,
Kevin (Carla) Christensen, Missouri Valley, IA,
Marcia (Rich) Dodds, Madrid, IA,
and Michelle (Rob) Davison, Minburn, IA;

her seven adored grandchildren,
Kimberlyn Christensen, Carlyn Christensen, Kourtlyn Christensen, Jillian Dodds, Marissa Dodds, Mallory Davison, and Brayden Davison;

her siblings,
Gary (Kathy) Davis, Dubuque, IA,
and Linda Davis, Platteville, WI;

her sisters-in-law,
Bonnie Davis, Darlington, WI,
and Mary Ann Davis, Sherrill, IA;

her special friend,
Dave Jaeger, Sherrill, IA;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Beverly was preceded in death by her parents; her two brothers, James “Jim” Davis and Donald “Donnie” Davis; and her grandparents, Nick (Stella) Elgin, Matt (Kate) Davis, and Mary Kuhl.

In honor of Beverly’s life, memorials and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to her daughter, Marcia Dodds, at 115 Jonathan Drive, Madrid, IA, 50156.

Beverly’s family would like to thank everyone on the Sherrill Fire Department, EMS, and in the Mercy Emergency Room for all of their professional and compassionate care.  Being surrounded by so many truly concerned folks during these most difficult moments helped to bring a little peace into our hearts and minds when needed most, and for that we are beyond thankful!

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

Edmund A. Steppan Jr

Edmund A. “Bud” Steppan, Jr., age 89, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 27, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Bud’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 241 Peosta Street, Peosta, IA, with Father Scott Boone officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship for two hours prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the church cemetery in Centralia.  The service will be livestreamed on the Parish’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/stelizabethpastorate for those who cannot physically attend. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bud’s family.

Bud was born on November 1, 1933, in Chicago, IL, a son to Edmund and Cecilia (Cynova) Steppan, Sr.  He grew up surrounded by family and friends and developed early on a love for life and the most important fact that we cannot take it all too seriously. Bud went on to proudly serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  He eventually met the love of his life, Rosemarie Westney, and the couple was united in marriage on February 17, 1962.  They were blessed with many wonderful years together and four sons. He possessed a strong work ethic and spent many years with Victor Comptometer and Great Lakes in Chicago, before he and Rosemarie moved to Dubuque where he completed his working years with W.C. Brown Publishing.  Bud was also a faithful member of St. Benedict’s Church in Chicago, and St. John the Baptist Church in Peosta throughout his years.  Bud was the walking embodiment of a dry sense of humor combined with a sarcastic twist.  His quips were quick and always ready at moment’s notice and if there was ever an opportunity to share his lighter side of life attitude with those around him, you could be sure that he was going to take it in true Bud fashion.  He enjoyed music, especially Mitch Miller and a good polka song, and was also perfectly content to listen to the Cubs play while relaxing in the yard with a cold Old Style.  Bud was an avid photographer over his years and thoroughly enjoyed the new innovations in the photography world as life progressed.  He was also a semipro level do-it-yourselfer who always took great pride in his accomplishments and was willing to share his talents whenever a new challenge presented itself.  But first and foremost, Bud was an excellent husband, father, and grandfather who strived to leave his legacy behind working actively within the lives of those he truly loved and adored.  His commitment was tried and true and he continually led by example.  We will miss Bud more than words could accurately depict and we are beyond grateful for the years the Lord was generous enough to share his light with us.  Thank you, Bud, for being the man we all needed you to be and may the peace and rest of the Lord be with you now as we wait patiently to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bud include,

his loving wife of 61 years,
Rosemarie Steppan, Dubuque, IA;

his four sons,
Ed (Anne) Steppan, III, St. Anne, IL,
Tim (Angela) Steppan, Hartford, S.D.,
Bob Steppan, Bolingbrook, IL,
and Bill (Jenny) Steppan, Dubuque, IA;

his five grandchildren,
Tim (Rachel) Steppan, Kevin (Hannah) Steppan, Mark Steppan, Amber (Mark) Dye, and Vivian Steppan;

his three great-grandchildren,
Freya Steppan, Greta Steppan, and Isabella Dye;

his sister-in-law,
Kay Steppan, Chicago, IL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Ann (James) Nimietz; and his brother, Dan Steppan.

Bud’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all their professional and compassionate care of Bud and his family.  Your devotion and concern have truly made some of the more difficult days we’ve had to face just a little more bearable and for that we are eternally grateful.

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