Obituaries Archive

Larry E. Oyen

Larry E. Oyen, 63, of Asbury, IA, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 5, 2025.

In accordance with Larry’s wishes no services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

Larry was born January 29, 1962, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Eldon and Doris (Siefker) Oyen. He married the love of his life, Michelle “Shelly” Maas on September 20, 1986, at Resurrection Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA. Larry worked as a Car Sales Manager in the Dubuque area for 45 years.

He enjoyed hunting, riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, cheering on his Green Bay Packers by the fire, and attending car shows to show off his Mustang “Rosy”. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. Larry was a great friend to many and was always there to help anyone who needed it.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Shelly Oyen; his children: Natalie (Brad) Steuer of Asbury, Samantha (Tinesh) Jahagee of Asbury, and Blake Oyen of Dubuque; grandchildren: Sage and Landon Steuer, Chand and Priya Jahagee, and Laikyn Oyen; siblings: Scott Oyen of Peosta, Kevin (Lynne) Oyen, and Bonnie (Rick) Anderson both of Asbury; parents-in-law, Butch and Bernita Maas; brothers-in-law: Ron Maas, Mike (Angie) Maas, and Dennis Maas all of Dubuque.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and grandson Brecken Steuer.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, especially to Shelby, for their care and compassion of Larry.

Kathryn S. O’Brien

Kathryn Sue O’Brien, age 77, passed away peacefully at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation on December 4, 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Kathy was born on January 1, 1948 in Cascade at McQuillan’s Maternity Home to Edward O’Brien and Lois (Evans) O’Brien.  The majority of her life was spent in Maquoketa where she spent time working at the Jack & Jill grocery deli, visiting with friends, riding her bike, and collecting cookie jars. She was proud that artist Rose Frantzen painted her as a fellow resident for her Portrait of Maquoketa project in 2006.

Kathy had 12 siblings and enjoyed family gatherings. She was independent and had a quick sense of humor where she would tease people with one-liners. She enjoyed visiting on the phone and watching westerns on tv.

She is survived by six siblings: Linda (Barry) Nudd, Bellevue, IA, Frank O’Brien, Bellevue, IA, Rhonda Radetzki, Dubuque, IA, Kim Wiese, Plymouth, MN, Robin Ignatowicz, St. Louis Park, MN, and Cliff (Cathy) Morgan, Dubuque, IA; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Lois and siblings John O’Brien, Mary Rose O’Brien, Patrick O’Brien, and Steve Radetzki, Kevin Radetzki, and Fran Spain.

The family would like to thank the Ennoble Manor of Dubuque and Hospice Care Initiatives of Manchester for the love and care given to Kathy.

A private family burial will be held at a later date in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, North Garry Owen.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Kathy’s family.

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

Ethel L. Wentworth

Ethel Lee Wentworth (Jacoby), 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday morning, December 4, 2025, in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Ethel Lee Jacoby was born on March 22, 1938 in Oelwein, Iowa, to Paul and Louise (Hoth) Jacoby. She married Jack Richard Wentworth on January 25, 1966 in Preston, Minnesota.  He preceded her in death on January 2, 2010.

In her earlier years she worked at St. Francis in Waterloo, IA. After moving to Delmar, IA, she was employed at Stouffers in DeWitt and Wadys, Fastex and Crestridge in Maquoketa until retirement. Ethel cherished her time with her children and grandchildren. She was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan and enjoyed crocheting and doing word search puzzles.

She is survived by her daughters Debbie Frahm, Jackie Mitchell and Michele Miller; grandchildren Jamie, Cassie, Lukas, Kiley, Sarah and Joesph; 8 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Ethel was preceded in death by her parents Paul Jacoby and Louise Steggall, husband Jack Wentworth, son William Funk, grandsons Levi Mitchell and William Frahm, son-in-law Jeff Miller, sisters Helen Meyer, Dorothy Sheetz, Katherine Meinders, Betty “Pat” Sauer, Pauline Closson and Connie Gill, and her beloved dog Georgie.

A private family graveside service and burial will be held at a later date at the Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.  There is no public visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

The family would like to especially thank the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa for their compassionate care.

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

Bernard Costa

Bernard (Bernie) Costa, of Dubuque, IA, (by way of Clinton, NJ and Charleston, SC) passed away on December 3, 2025, at the age of 80.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1945, Bernie moved with his family to Teaneck, NJ, at age 5. He graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with an M.S. in Mathematics. He was drafted into the U.S. Army and served as the company clerk for Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 48th Infantry, while stationed in Gelnhausen, Germany. 

Bernie was a computer programmer who developed software for pharmaceutical companies, producing the statistical tables required for FDA approval. He also created BEAST, a database system in the early days of the IBM PC that was reviewed in PC Magazine in 1984.

 His love of math—though he always insisted he was “not a mathematician”—was a lifelong passion. He relished solving puzzles and explaining mathematical ideas to audiences who were not always as enthusiastic as he was.  

Bernie loved driving great distances and explored much of the United States and Canada. On one trip, which he dubbed the “Magellan Minor,” he drove through all 48 contiguous states in just 13 days. He also visited all nine Canadian provinces. 

Bernie amassed an immense collection of over 2,000 movies and TV shows and he also loved playing video games. Bernie was active in politics during his retirement years, helping local candidates with their campaigns and working the polls on many election days. 

He is survived by his wife, Anne; his children, John (Leslie) and Jill; his siblings, John (Norma), and Barbara Cimicata (Tim); and nieces and nephews.

Bernie was predeceased by his parents, Salvatore Costa and Sebastiana Moltisanti Costa; and by his brother, Joseph (Mary).

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local PBS station, which Bernie proudly supported.

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

Mary N. Shiflet Mauk-Kammerude

Mary Nancy Shiflet Mauk-Kammerude, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, surrounded by the four people who loved her most—her girls.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 3:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Cemetery in Kieler, Wisconsin.

Mary was born on September 19, 1942, in Middlesboro, Kentucky, to Lloyd Shiflet and Myrtle Shiflet (Grizzell). Known affectionately as Mary Nancy, then Mom, then Grandma Mary, and later Gigi—once she became a great-grandma and eventually a great-great-grandma—Mary’s life was full of spontaneity, sparkle, stubborn determination, and just the right dash of mischief. She worked hard all her life, waitressing at Ring’s Restaurant, Hoffman House, and Mario’s. She adored road trips, including infamous outings with her Hoffman House co-workers: a whirlwind trip to the Milwaukee Zoo, the SafeHouse, and even “kidnapping” her friend Mary Sue. After retiring from waitressing, she also spent time working at Sam’s Club, where she was a friendly face to all who came through the doors.

One of her last big adventures was a breathtaking national park trip, where she savored all that nature has to offer, enjoyed good times with family, and spent plenty of hours reading in the car. Mary was a fighter. Her life held its share of hardships, but she faced them all with grit, humor, and resilience. She built her whole world around her four daughters, working hard to support her family and spending time with those she loved. Mary had a soft heart and a bold personality. She sparkled—literally—with her flair for shiny things and saucy fur coats. She cultivated treasured friendships, especially with her best friends Maureen and Bunny, and shared her home with her loyal companion, her cat Harry, who adored her.

Mary loved reading, her nose always buried in a book every night before bed. She devoured novels faster than anyone could keep track. When she wasn’t reading, she was canning, filling journals with her daily thoughts and adventures, or sprinkling the world with her favorite curse words, delivered with her trademark charm. Nothing made her happier than a house full of grandkids tracking in dirt and mulberry stains. Some of the best memories of Mary are those of epic bonfires at the farmhouse. Her grandkids learned early that if they were at Grandma’s, they were in for something fun: tree forts, hiking, four-wheeling, watching movies, or a lesson on how to fish like a pro. They’d stop by “Grandma’s Work” (also known as the Hoffman House restaurant) for chicken strips and kiddie cocktails, feeling like VIPs because Grandma Mary was working.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd Shiflet and Myrtle Shiflet (Grizzell); her first husband, Henry Landford Mauk; her second husband, Kenneth Paul Kammerude; her son-in-law, Murrell Webb II; and her granddaughter, Mary Jenna Webb.

She leaves behind her four devoted daughters, who were the center of her world: Glenna Webb (Terry Blankenship), Cathy Mauk Dickens (Boyd Dickens), Judy Schwers (Jeff Schwers), and Michele Axtell (Ron Axtell); eleven grandchildren; twenty-seven great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. Mary’s love runs through them all—an unending legacy of warmth, laughter, determination, and perseverance.

Mary lived boldly, loved deeply, and sparkled brightly. Her story lives on in her family and friends. She will be missed beyond measure and remembered with profound joy.

The family extends a heartfelt thank-you to the healthcare professionals at Mercy Medical Center who cared for Mary over the years, and to Dubuque Hospice for their tender care at the end of her life. Your kindness, compassion, and gentle presence meant everything. You not only cared for Mary with extraordinary grace, but you cared for the people who loved her most. You are truly angels on Earth.

Terry J. Miller

Terry J. Miller, 76, of Galena, IL and formerly of Hanover, IL. The family of Terry Miller sadly announces the passing of their father and grandpa on December 2, 2025.

Terry was born on July 5, 1949 to Lois (Girot) and Floyd Miller in Savanna, IL. No matter where his travels took him, he was always so proud of being a Hanover native. He always compared his idyllic childhood with his brother Jerald to be like growing up in Mayberry. Terry couldn’t be more proud to promote Hanover, Galena and his beloved Jo Daviess County.

Terry was a proud Hanover Red Devil, graduating with the Class of 1967. Maintaining his friendships and attending class reunions was something he enjoyed so much thru the years.

After high school, Terry honorably served his country in the US Army in Vietnam, earning more than one bronze medal. Upon his return from service, Terry obtained both his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from University of Illinois at Springfield.

Terry worked as a tour guide for Tri-State Tours and then began his career with the State of Illinois at the Secretary of State until his dream job opened up in 1995 as the Site Superintendent of State Historic Sites. Terry worked right up until his passing because he loved his work and the people he worked with.

On December 28, 1986, Terry married the love of his life, Pam Byers. This marriage also blessed him with his two sons, Jeff and Jake Zeal. Terry and Pam were proud and active members of the Jo Daviess County Republican Party, attending National Conventions and enjoying the friendships they created with people who became lifelong friends.

When Terry became a widow in 1995, his loss was palpable to everyone around him but his commitment to Jeff and Jake never diminished. When his title role was promoted to “Grandpa”, it was hard to find one as proud as he was. Every grandchild was “brilliant”, “beautiful”, “handsome”, “athletic”, according to Grandpa Terry and his grandchildren held him high on a pedestal as well. Terry generously blessed us with vacations all over the United States and we will cherish those memories for the rest of our lives.

Terry is lovingly survived by his sons, Jeff (Jodi) of Lena, Illinois and Jake (Michelle) Zeal of Dubuque, Iowa. His grandchildren, Jenna, Jacob, Alexia, Brody and Tyler. He is also survived by his “Texas Family” and many cousins. Terry is preceded in death by his wife, Pam, his parents, brother, Jerry and his in-laws, Sam & Fran Byers.

Our family wishes to thank Jamie and Jeremy Loso for all of your love and support of Terry. We also wish to thank Dr. Greg Vandigo, Midwest Medical Center and every member of Terry’s staff for your care for our dad and grandpa.

Visitation will be from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL, and from 9:30 – 10:45 a.m. on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Galena Bible Church, 11108 U.S. 20 West, Galena, IL, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 8^th, with Pastor Mike Nesbit officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Cemetery, Hanover, IL, where military honors will be accorded by members of V.F.W. Post # 5300 of Hanover.

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

In lieu of flowers, a Terry J. Miller memorial fund has been established

Dorrance P. McDermott

Dorrance P. McDermott, 90, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, in Epworth, Iowa.

Visitation for Dorrance will be held from 2 to 7 p.m., on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. The Epworth Volunteer Fire Department will meet at 6 p.m.  Visitation will also be held starting at 9 a.m. on Tuesday at the Funeral Home.

Services for Dorrance will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding and Rev. Steven Garner and Rev. Sam Cunningham concelebrating. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth with full Military Honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion Post #650 and the striking of the 4-5’s by the Epworth Fire Department.

He was born August 11, 1935, in Placid, Iowa, son of Cyril and Viola (Delaney) McDermott. He was a graduate of Epworth High School. On September 5, 1959, he was united in marriage to Verna Oberfoell at St. Patrick’s Church in Epworth, Iowa. He was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 28 years, until his retirement in 1994. He was an Army veteran, proudly serving in Germany from 1955 to 1957. This past summer, he received a Quilt of Valor recognizing his service.  He was a bus driver for the Western Dubuque School District for over 30 years and drove the WD band instrument bus all over the country. He was a dedicated member of Bobcat Nation and attended many events over the years.

He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Family was extremely important to him, and he always kept them covered in prayer. In your time of need, you could give Dorrance a call and he would move you to the top of his prayer list.

Dorrance was steward of the land. He grew up a farm boy and when he got married, he moved to town and planted and tended to a large garden. Many community members can say they ate his homegrown tomatoes or an ear of his sweet corn. There was always plenty to go around.

A true jack-of-all-trades and dedicated community servant, Dorrance gave generously of his time, talents, and treasures. He was a fireman for 25 years at the Epworth Volunteer Fire Department, sang in the Church choir, was an active member of CEW, and coached little league baseball. His interests were wide. You may remember him as a bow hunter, camper, Epworth Legion baseball player, softball player, woodworker, Euchre player, golfer, or yodeler. He loved to be outside in the woods, whether it was on a deer stand, chopping wood, or hunting for mushrooms. He made beautiful wood creations from trees that he logged, making shelves, cradles, clocks, and more. Dorrance was a hard-working man, always staying active, which kept him in good health.

He was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth and attended mass daily, even when the weather was not permitting. His devotion to his faith was apparent to all; during his military service he served mass for the chaplain on the base and sponsored a fellow soldier to become Catholic. He was an advocate for the Divine Word Seminary; many sisters, priests, and brothers, could often be found visiting with him and Verna in their living room. His guiding principle was, “You don’t put the Lord on the shelf!” In his 90 years, Dorrance never did.

He is survived by his wife, Verna McDermott of Epworth; four children, Curt (Janice) McDermott and Craig (Kim) McDermott both of Cedar Rapids, Trisha Greenwood of Farley, and Brad (Julie) McDermott of Cedar Rapids; 12 grandchildren, Jill (Ryan) Saunders, Josh (Lindsey) McDermott, Jena McDermott, Grace (Mike) Johnson, and Logan McDermott, Anne Marie, Thomas, Mary Clare, James, and Eva Greenwood, Chloe and Max McDermott; three great-grandchildren, Wesley and Haley Saunders and Rowan McDermott; two sisters, Phyllis (Darris) Goerdt and Julie Casey; sisters-in-law, Kate McDermott and Marianne Burrell, a brother-in-law, Jim Brady; and a sister-in-law, Helen McDermott.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one infant son Martin “Marty” McDermott; one grandson, Riley McDermott in infancy; one sister, Mary Catherine McDermott in infancy; two brothers, Neal McDermott and Dennis McDermott; one sister and brother-in-law, Lois (John) Smith; one brother-in-law, Donnie Casey; his father and mother-in-law, Leroy and Marie Oberfoell; and his brothers and sisters-in-laws, Milton (Irene) Oberfoell, Ileen (Bill) Domas, Ione (Chuck) Engler, Leo “Mike” (Phyllis) Oberfoell, Francis “Ducky” (Jean) Oberfoell, and Patti Brady.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Betty J. Griffin

Betty J. Griffin, age 92, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on December 3, 2025, at UnityPoint-Finley Hospital while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Betty’s life, a visitation will be held from 12:00-1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street in Dubuque.  A parish scripture wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the church with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Family and friends of Betty are invited to join in food and fellowship at her Celebration of Life following her services from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at P.J.’s Pub & Hall, 3670 County HHH in Kieler, WI.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Betty’s family.

Betty was born on October 13, 1933, in Dubuque, IA, the oldest of four daughters to Tim and Helen (Smith) McCoy.  She was united in marriage to Robert Griffin on March 29, 1952.  They were blessed with six children of their own and spent a few years in New London, CT, before returning back to the Dubuque area and settling in Dickeyville, WI.

Betty spent the majority of her working years side by side with her sister, Pat Broessel at their Patricia Bridal Boutique.  She eventually retired from Barnstead Thermolyne.  Betty was also a devoted volunteer in our community and proudly served on the board for Crescent Community Health Center.

In her free-time, Betty enjoyed traveling whenever possible and exploring new places.  She was also naturally gifted in the kitchen and always enjoyed making her famous Betty Spaghetti and New London Grinders for family and friends.  Those who knew her best were quite aware that the holiday season was among her favorite time of the year as she could share her holiday candies and fudge with all of her loved ones.  We are going to miss Betty dearly and can only hope that the beautiful memories she leaves behind will help to heal our broken hearts in time.  Thank you, Betty, for always giving so much of yourself and allowing your love and light to shine vividly among the world around you.  May the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Betty include,

her six children,
Tim (Kathy) Griffin, Epworth, IA,
Russ (Kris) Griffin, Dickeyville, WI,
Julie (Jerome Koppen) Griffin, Dubuque, IA,
Dick (Ruth Hinzmann) Griffin, Platteville, WI,
Caroline (Mary Lebrecht) Griffin, Roscommon, MI,
and Rita (Dan) Barrett, Dubuque, IA;

her eight grandchildren,
Gage, Jayde, Ross, Rachel, Melinda, Dillon, Timmy and Brent;

her sixteen great-grandchildren,
Owen, Taylor, Brook, Carolyn, Ethan, Braelyn, Emrie, Benson, Marley, Oaklyn, Ila, Daxton, Faith, Blake, Brady and Halona;

her great-great-grandson,
Weston;

her sister,
Colleen Mohr, East Dubuque, IL;

her special nieces,
Cheryl Gerdemann and Shelly Bahl;

her special friend,
June Crimmins, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Dale Griffin; her granddaughter, Holly Amunson; her sisters, Pat (Bob) Broessel and Sally (Don) Cain; her mother-in-law, Naida Griffin; her brothers-in-law, Wes Mohr and Don Griffin; her nephews, Mike Broessel and Kirk Broessel; her niece, Laura Griffin-Atkin; and her former husband, Robert Griffin.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Betty’s name to the St. Jude’s Children Hospital.

Betty’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to extend a very heartfelt thank you our dear friend, Rita Barrett, for all of her love, time and support over the years.

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

Beverly L. Knockel

Beverly L. Knockel, 77, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Monday, December 1, 2025, at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque.

A celebration of life will be held at Eagle Point Park this summer. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

She was born August 20, 1948, in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert and Rita (Kane) Knockel. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1966 and earned her bachelor’s degree from Clarke College in 1995.

Bev worked for John Deere from 1969 to 2001, for Hansel Realty from 2003 to 2004, Roth & Henkels Law Office from 2005 to 2008, and for Wartburg Theological Seminary from 2008 to 2010. She also volunteered for Make-A-Wish and Sacred Heart Catholic Church as a lector.

Bev was generous, kind, and giving. She had a large personality and made everyone feel welcome. She was known for entertaining her family, friends and co-workers. Her delicious meals and treats were enjoyed and appreciated by many. Christmas was a special season for Bev and Nora. Her beautiful tree and wonderful Christmas village made her known to many as “Ms. Christmas”.

Bev is survived by her brother, Gary (Joan) Knockel of Lakemoor, IL; niece, Liberty Tupper of Des Moines; great nieces and nephews: Abigail (Adam) Koch of Cedar Falls, Gillian (Garrett) Danilson of Madrid, IA, Morgan Tupper of Des Moines, Gabrielle Fulks of New Mexico, Kimber Bates of Lexington, KY, Drew Fulks of Richmond, KY; great-great nieces and nephews, Andi Koch, Sage Danilson, Daisy Danilson and Axel Koch; and special family friend, Patty (nee Howard) Bennett

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert Knockel and Rita Lucas, siblings, Robert Knockel Jr., Nancy Reuter, and John Knockel, nephew, Andy Fulks, and lifelong friend Nora Lutes.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Diane Knockel, the Dan and Joan Knockel family, Terry Link, Dave and Julie Keck, the Sunnycrest staff, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion of Bev.

Donna F. Camp

Donna Fay Camp, 86, of Guntersville, Alabama, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025, in Alabama.

Donna Fay Croce was born on December 30, 1938, in Canton, Iowa, to Leo and Gladys (Bickford) Croce.  She was united in marriage to Bobby Camp on July 2, 1958 in Fort Hood, Texas.

Donna was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.  She loved watching football and was an avid Denver Broncos fan.  She cherished her time spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.  Donna also loved Elvis Presley and had tons of souvenirs, having one of his scarfs from a concert.  She also enjoyed visiting Graceland.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Carolyn (Rick) Stanley of Guntersville, Alabama, Bobby (Molly) Camp of Guntersville, and Greg (Toni) Camp of Maquoketa; sisters Maxine Flock of Maquoketa and Wendy (Bill) Hainstock of Delmar, Iowa; brother Leo “Butch” Croce of Maquoketa; and 7 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Bobby, sisters Janis Seay, Monna Cleary, and Kathy in infancy; and her brother Billy Croce.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 12 P.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

Timothy Lyons

Timothy J. “Tim” Lyons, age 57, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Tim’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Tim was born on January 17, 1968, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Dale and Dixie (Carner) Lyons.

Tim attended Prescott Elementary School, Dubuque Senior High School and graduated from Waterloo High School.  He had many hobbies including collecting baseball cards, shooting pool, playing cards, fishing and looking for bargains at the thrift store.

Those left to cherish Tim’s memory include

his siblings,
Jean (Dan) Allen, Dubuque, IA,
Reva Lyons, Waterloo, IA,
Eric Lyons, Dubuque, IA,
Dale Lyons Jr., Dubuque, IA
and Steve Lyons, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents.

Tim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital for their kindness and compassionate care.

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

Richard W. Merrihew

Richard Wayne Merrihew, age 93, was born as the only child to Bert Loyd & Florence Mary (Moulton) Merrihew January 2, 1932, in Bethany, MO. He passed away peacefully December 2nd at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque Iowa, with his family at his side.  To celebrate Richard’s life family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at GracePoint Church, 3100 Windsor Avenue.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., at the church.  Burial will be at a later date in Oakland Memorial Cemetery, Oakland, Nebraska.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Richard’s family.

As a young child, he grew up on the Merrihew Ranch in northwest Nebraska near Ashby, NE until second grade, then continued to live in Bethany, MO, where he graduated from high school in 1949. He later graduated with an Electrical and Electronics Engineering degree from the International Correspondence School and Capitol Radio.

He married Shirley Ann Wedergren on July 25, 1953, in Oakland, NE, by the Evangelical Free Church Pastor.  They were married 67 wonderful years. She was his soul mate and the love of his life. She went to heaven March 30, 2020.

He worked as an Electrical Technician/Engineer most of his life starting at Consumer Public Power in Nebraska in 1949, and retired from Interstate Power in Dubuque, IA in 1998. The major part of his employment was with Public and Private Power.

He served in the Marine Corp from 1951 to 1952, during the Korean War as a Weapons Instructor. He became an Amateur Radio operator in 1958, he had an Extra Class License, his call letters were KØPLX and he enjoyed being an active member of the Great River Amateur Radio Club in Dubuque, IA. He enjoyed motorcycle riding, gardening and talking on his amateur radios to people all over the world. He also had a great passion for the pre-born children in this world and gave many prayers, contributions, and Ultrasound equipment to The Clarity Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa and the Heartland Pregnancy Center of Ottumwa, Iowa. He and Shirley were always hosting family and friends at their home. They loved supporting missionaries all over the world, even going to personally visit some of them in Africa.

When he was 22 years old, he made the most important decision in his life. He started a personal relationship with the Son of God, Jesus Christ. This relationship changed his whole world view and how he lived out his life of integrity, honor, diligence, and hard work.  He was an active church attendee at many churches in the Dubuque area, most recently GracePoint of Dubuque Iowa. His greatest wish is for every person he knows to also have that same relationship and to know God as Creator of the universe and have a close friend through a relationship with Jesus Christ. If you want to know more how to have that personal relationship you can ask any of his daughters about this “Good News”, so that you too can experience eternal life in heaven and meet him and Shirley again in eternity.

He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley in March 2020, parents Florence Merrihew when he was 16 years old, and his father Bert Merrihew in 1987, and son Michael Harold Merrihew in 1960.

He is survived by daughters Zelda Mae (Mark) Anderson and children Michael Anderson & JinHee (Gage) Martin, and daughter Anna Lee Murphy and daughters Fallon Murphy & Heidi Murphy & her son Isaac Birch, son Elijah Birch & fiancée Katie Wright great great granddaughter Alaiya, daughter Adaya Birch & son Ozieah Murphy, and Sara Lynn (Zbig) Piekielny and daughter Jadwiga (Greg) Hinzpeter.

Cards and memorials in Richard’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Richard Merrihew Family.

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

Aurelia J. Ewers

Aurelia J. “Rae” Ewers, age 81, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, December 1, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Aurelia’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue.  Funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday at Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Jeffrey Frieden officiating.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Aurelia’s family.

Aurelia was born on January 1, 1944, in Keokuk, Iowa, the daughter of Leo and Doris (Howell) Neyens.

Rae was raised in Keokuk where she graduated from Cardinal Stritch High School.  She went on to attend St. Mary’s College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and then studied fashion design in Chicago.  After school, she returned to Iowa and settled in Iowa City.  Rae met the love of her life, Richard Ewers, when the two were in kindergarten.  They began going steady when they were just 16, and married on August 27, 1966, at St. Mary’s Church in Keokuk.  She was employed with Hills and Dales for 25 years until her retirement.  Rae loved her work there and served as guardian for some of the residents.  Rae’s faith was very important to her.  She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church since 1973.  She was a member of the Rosary Society, helped with the hot lunch program, and for 20 years, Rae and Richard worked Bingo at the church.  She was an extremely talented seamstress, made beautiful cross stitch and needle craft pieces, and loved decorating her home.  Her family meant the world to her, and she loved spoiling the grandkids.  Rae was a wonderful wife, mom, grandma and sister who will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Aurelia’s memory include

her husband,
Richard Ewers Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Jeannette (Michael) Holzinger, Marion, IA
and Richard “Rick” (Barbara) Ewers Jr., Belleville, IL;

3 grandchildren,
Ryan (Hannah) Ewers, Rylie Ewers and Raegan Ewers;

2 great-grandchildren,
Jameson and Oliver;

her siblings,
Rita (Tim) Hickey, Montrose, IA
and Ruth (Alfred) Lorenson, Monroe City, MO;

and a sister-in-law,
Susan Neyens, Hawaii.

Aurelia was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Leo “Lanny” Neyens.

Rae’s family would like to thank the entire staff of MercyOne Dubuque for the compassionate care they provided for Rae.

Memorials in Rae’s name may be given to the Dubuque Humane Society or to your local animal shelter.  Cards in Rae’s memory may also be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Aurelia “Rae” Ewers Family.

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

Margaret A. Fox

Margaret A. “Peg” Fox, age 69, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at home.  To celebrate Peggy’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:45 p.m., on Monday, December 8, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Monday at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Peg was born on February 4, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, the first born to Wayne and Nancy (Grant) Ellerman.

She married the love of her life, Michael Fox, on June 8, 1973.  Together they had 3 beautiful daughters, Tanya, Nicci and Liz.  Family was always first and foremost to Peg.  From helping raise her siblings, to making all her children and grandchildren feel as if they were the only person in the world.  Her selflessness and generosity will be remembered by all.

Peg will be dearly missed by her husband, Mike, daughters, Tanya (Patrick) Kress, Nicci Curran and Liz Dunahoo, her mom, Nancy, sisters, Connie and Carla, as well as her brothers Dan and Bob.

Peg loved her grandchildren deeply and made a deep imprint on each one.  She will be missed by Jordan, Paige, Jade, Trae, Zeke, Evan, Courtney, Daniel, Chloe, Luke, Olivia, Aidan, Wyatt, Joey and Cooper.

As if that’s not enough, her great grandchildren include, Isabelle, Violet, Ember, Maverick, Ophelia, Syre, Roman and Cassius due on December 6.

Those who welcomed her home include her dad, Wayne, her brother, Kenny, her sister, Dianne, her in-laws, Evie and Bob, as well as many friends and relatives.

Peg’s family would like to thank the Dubuque Police Department and the Dubuque Fire Department and Paramedics for their fast response and compassionate care.

Cards and memorials in Peg’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Peg Fox Family.

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

John G. Lincicum

In sadness, we announce the passing of John G. Lincicum, 86, of Elizabeth, IL, who died on Monday, December 1, 2025, at UPH Finley Hospital in Dubuque, IA. A gathering will be held from 5 to 7 PM on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL. Burial of the cremated remains will take place at a later date.

He was born on January 6, 1939, in Warren, IL, to John L. and Esther (Barker) Lincicum. John was a lifelong farmer who loved the land dearly. He served in the National Guard for 8 years, joining in 1957 and leaving in 1965, where he worked as a cook. He also worked as a cook at the Silvia Dotsel restaurant in Elizabeth. John was a dump truck driver for various construction companies. He loved to drive and travel, working as a tour bus driver for many years, which took him to three countries and 39 U.S. states. John loved to show Johnny and Mouse (his son John and granddaughter Kathryn) all the places he had traveled by pointing them out on an Atlas. He also loved working outdoors on the farm, in the yard, or fixing cars; he could repair just about anything. Some of John’s favorite activities included cooking for others, reading history books, watching old cowboy movies, telling stories, spending time with family, looking at old tractor books, and listening to “In the Garden” by Alan Jackson.

He married Mary Elizabeth “Betsy” Uecker on September 1, 1972, and they separated in 1991. Known as “Big John,” he was famous for making people laugh, his incredible strength, and his selflessness, especially towards animals, particularly his beloved dog Cocoa. John loved to make others laugh and was quick with sarcasm and jokes. He was a wonderful grandfather and had a close bond with his granddaughter, Kathryn. They shared a secret handshake called the lumberjack handshake, which they performed every time they saw each other and had been doing for about 16 years.

A born farmer, John was powerful; a memorable instance was in the parking lot of the old school in Elizabeth, when, at age 51, he impressively lifted the back two tires of his son’s 1984 Toyota pickup off the ground using just his fingers—something three high school boys couldn’t replicate. In his late 20s, while working on a 1953 Buick Century, he lifted a Buick Nailhead V-8 engine over the grille of the car, about 660 pounds. During National Guard training, he carried an injured fellow soldier and their gear for about 3 miles, eventually saving his life by jumping on the back of a tank while holding the soldier and their gear. John loved animals deeply. Once, he pulled over on the side of the road to rescue a coyote hit by a car, placed it in the backseat of his pristine 1961 Buick Electra, and brought it home to care for it alongside his other dogs, even feeding it bacon. A selfless man, John would give you the shirt off his back or his last dollar and loved to help others whenever he could.

John is survived by his son, John H., of Elizabeth; two granddaughters, Kathryn Clancy-Lincicum of Fargo, ND, and Abigail (Blake) Howerton of Kansas City, MO; a sister, Carol Woker; and a close friend and mother of his grandchildren, Colleen “Kelly” Clancy-Lincicum.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Harold, Roger, Marjorie, Dorothy, Beulah, Jean, and Bessie, and a grandson, Kayne Clancy-Lincicum.

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