Obituaries Archive

Marvin F. Jorgensen

Marvin F. Jorgensen, 91, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, April 16, 2022, at his home.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2 P.M., Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  There is no visitation.  Burial will be in the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery, at a later date.

Marvin Frederick Jorgensen was born on August 4, 1930 in Perry Township, Jackson County, Iowa, to Peter J. and Margaret L. (Hoffmann) Jorgensen.  He was a 1948 graduate of Andrew High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955.  He married Gloria Lea Taylor on July 12, 1957 at Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew, Iowa.  Four children were born to this union, Randy, Roger, Shari and James.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, Marvin went to work for the county home as a farm hand.  He then worked for 27 years for Lamborn Construction in Maquoketa, and lastly for Jackson County as a mechanic for nine years.  He retired on January 1, 1993.

Marvin was a member of the Timber City American Legion Post #75, and a lifetime member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether.  He fully enjoyed retirement and doing things he loved to do such as woodworking, gardening, bowling, fishing, deer hunting, spending time with his family, canning and baking, and the annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Gloria Jorgensen of Maquoketa, IA; children, Randy Jorgensen of Oklahoma City, OK, Shari Jorgensen of Maquoketa, IA, and Jim (Lin) Jorgensen of Elwood, IA; 6 granchildren, Melissa (Chris), Adam (Alicia), Megan, Lisa, Taylor and Gracie; and 5 great-grandchildren, Arianna, Addison, Chase, Garrison, and Baylee.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Roger, and nine siblings Thelma, Carl, Glenn, Henry, Lorraine, Raymond, Helen, Gladys and Bob.

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

Charlene M. Riniker

Kenneth A. Clemen

Kenneth A. Clemen, 78, of Dubuque passed away at home surrounded by his family Friday, April 15, 2022

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Visitation will continue from 9:30 am to 10:30 am prior to the funeral service on Wednesday, April 20, 2022. Funeral service will be at 10:30 am Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at Nativity Church 1225 Alta Vista Street, Msgr. Jim Miller will officiate assisted by Fr. Carl Ries. Interment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Ken was born December 20, 1943 at home to Albin and Melinda (Zewen) Clemen in Luxemburg, Iowa where he grew up, then married Jan David on October 4, 1969 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church and celebrated 52 years of wedded bliss in Dubuque.

For 36 years Ken worked for John Deere Dubuque Works and many more years a carpenter. He enjoyed spending time with his family, visiting with friends, and playing euchre. Friends will always remember his laugh and saying, “Ja, ja, ja.” He was a member of the Moose Lodge and the Dubuque Men’s Association.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Jan, his children, Chad (Connie) Clemen and their children Skyler and Gwyn; Cher (Chris) Ruden and their children Cord and Catharine. His siblings Herb (Mary Ann) Clemen; Doris (Lenny) Le Conte; Dennis (Valerie) Clemen; Ron (Diane) Clemen. His siblings-in-law Judi (Bill) Morgan; Julie (Charlie) Kunau; Chuck (Lora) David; Jerry (Kim) David; Jacki (John) Nelson; Rick (Judi) David; Jayne David; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Floyd and Tillie David; sister JoAnn Recker; brothers-in-law Wayne Recker; Bill David; Jim David; Scott David.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Jeremiah, Amy, Peggy and all that came from Hospice of Dubuque.

Michael R. Plein

Michael R. Plein, 64, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, April 16, 2022, at Finley Hospital.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 22, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 23, at the funeral home, where visitation will be from 9:30 until the time of service.  Interment will be in Linwood Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded.

Michael was born May 19, 1957 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Richard and Madeline (Kronfeldt) Plein. He was raised in Dubuque, and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Michael enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1975. He retired from active Naval duty in 1990 with Honorable Discharge and joined the Navy Reserve.  On October 24, 1987, Michael married Mary Klinkhammer at Holy Ghost Catholic Church.  He was employed as a maintenance technician at Barnstead Thermolyne for 20 years and currently at Dubuque Stamping and Manufacturing.

Michael enjoyed woodworking, fishing, music, watching movies, and fixing cars. He was an avid Nascar, baseball, and football fan, especially the St Louis Cardinals and the San Francisco 49ers.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary; two children, Megan (fiancé Mike Peiffer) Plein and Chris Plein; his step-sisters, Gail (Sid) Bader and Cindy (Carl) Lorenz; his uncle Clem Plein; his aunt Sandra (Richard) Stergulz; his brothers-in-law, Donnie (Judy), Steve (Karen), Dale (Kim), Ken (Kris), David (Karen), and John (Jeremy Miñano) Klinkhammer; his sister-in-law Vickie Klinkhammer; his step-mother-in-law Carol Klinkhammer; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Richard Plein; his mother Madeline (Glen) Oxley; his aunts Irene Plein and Donna Hyatt; his parents-in-law, Donald J. and Alice Klinkhammer; his sister-in-law Christine Klinkhammer; and his brother-in-law Mark Klinkhammer.

The family would like to thank the nursing staff at Finley Hospital and Dr. Benda.

Ardella M. Helle

Ardella M. Helle, 92, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Saturday, April 16, 2022, at Hawkeye Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 2-7 p.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will begin at 2:00 p.m.  Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Ardella was born May 31, 1929, in Petersburg, Iowa the daughter of Clem and Frances (Weber) Deppe.  She married Donald F. Helle on February 15, 1949, in Petersburg and he preceded her in death on April 4, 2016.   Together they farmed near Dyersville until 1987 when they moved to town.

Ardella was a woman of strong faith, a giving wife and devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She made the best homemade bread and cookies, no one left her home hungry.  She had a smile that brought sunshine to every room, making her a joy to be around.  She will be dearly missed.

Survivors include her two sons: Ken (Rita) Helle of Dyersville, Loras (Glenda) Helle of Sergeant Bluff, IA, son-in-law, Jerome Heims of Ryan, daughter-in-law, Cindy Helle of Cedar Rapids, grandchildren: Russ (Dawn) Helle of Dyersville, Craig (Carrie) Helle of Des Moines, Jennifer Helle of Delhi, Rory (Molly) Heims of Centerville, Kurt (Suzanne) Heims of Manchester and Grant Helle (friend Roberta Amaral) of Hamburg, Germany  great-grandchildren: Becca Ploessl and (friend Chase Breitbach), Bryce and Danielle Ploessl, Taylor and Josalyn Burlage, Grace, Kenny and Katie Helle, Heidi and Benson Heims, Nolan and Madelyn Heims and Luke Helle, siblings: Gladys Schemmel of Monticello, Hilda (Melvin) Reittinger of Dubuque, Sr. Julitta Deppe, OSF of Dubuque, in-laws, Doris Helle of Edgewood and Toots Bockenstedt of Luxemburg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Donald, two children: Dianne Heims and Robert Helle, siblings: William (Rosemary) Deppe, Lawrence (Helen and Norma) Deppe, Bertha (George) Klas and Leo Schemmel, in-laws: Vernon (Mildred) Helle and Eileen (Frank) Egloff; Anthony Helle and Cal Bockenstedt.

We would like to thank Hawkeye Care Center and Ellen Kennedy Living Center for the excellent care they gave Ardella the years she was there.  We would also like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Fr. Dennis Quint for their help and support the last few days of Ardella’s life.

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

Mark M. Dalsing

Mark M. Dalsing, 55, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away unexpectedly on Friday, April 15th 2022.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at The Church of the Nativity, with a parish wake service beginning at 7:45 p.m.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, April 21, 2022, at The Church of the Nativity with Fr. Andy Upah officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery, with honors accorded by the Dubuque Police Department and other law enforcement agencies.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

Mark was born August 20th, 1966 to Myron and Judith Dalsing. He was the rambunctious sibling to Lynn and Todd. Residing in Wisconsin and Iowa throughout his life he got to meet many people, many of which he was glad to call friends. He graduated from Southwestern High School in 1984 and then went on to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville to major in Criminal Justice. After graduating from college in 1988, Mark went to the police academy to officially become a police officer.

Mark joined the Dubuque Police Department on September 25th, 1989 as a patrolman, then became one of the first bicycle cops and quickly made his way through the rankings. Mark served as a Patrol Lieutenant, Community Policing Captain, and Criminal Investigations Division Captain before becoming Chief of Police in 2010, one of his most proud accomplishments. Throughout his time as Chief, Mark made many changes to the City of Dubuque. He was a proud board member to the American Red Cross, Boy Scouts of America, Project Concern and United Way of Dubuque Tri-States. One of the things Mark was most known for was his sense of humor when it came to Facebook posts for the Police Department. After retiring from the police department on September 25th, 2021, Mark became the Affordable Housing Director at Catholic Charities where he served until his passing. No matter his position, he always made sure to leave work at the door and put his family first.

While he enjoyed being an officer, he enjoyed being a husband and father more. Mark married Jennifer M. Eisbach on October 22nd, 1994 at the Church of Nativity in Dubuque. Their wedding was far from perfect. With the mother of the bride having a heart attack, to being locked out of the church and then losing their wedding photos. It didn’t matter to Mark and Jennie though because at the end of the day they were now husband and wife. A year later they welcomed their son, Benjamin and two years later their daughter, Emilie. Benjamin later went on to follow in his hero’s footsteps and also joined the criminal justice career.

Some of Mark’s other proudest accomplishments were being admitted to the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA in 2011. From there he went on to join the Presidential Leadership in 2016 where he had the honor of meeting past Presidents of the USA. He also received his Masters of Business from University of Dubuque where he was an adjunct Criminal Justice professor. Mark also had the honor of being sworn in as a US Marshall, as well as other accomplishments not listed. Mark was an avid participant in the Polar Plunge, dressing up in costumes to plunge into the Mississippi River to raise funds for the Iowa Special Olympics.

Mark enjoyed his retirement for a short while and could often be seen riding in his “new toy”, a blue Jeep Wrangler. When he wasn’t doing that you could find him walking on Grandview with Jennie and their dog Bucky or participating in 5K races throughout Dubuque. Mark was a huge Packer fan, going as far as painting their basement green and yellow. His favorite pastimes include buying collectable GI Joe figurines and mini football helmets.

Life threw a curve ball at the Dalsing’s when Jennie was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2020. It was the scariest time of their lives but Mark made sure to be the light of the room and keep a smile on everyone’s face. Mark could be heard cheering Jennie on as she rang the bell December 31st, 2020 that she was cancer free. Jennie truly was the love of his life.

Although he passed suddenly, Mark wouldn’t want those who knew him to sit and mourn. Instead he would want everyone to honor his legacy by speaking memories of his past, laughing and joking and being an extra hand to those that needed it.

Left to honor Mark are his wife of 27 years, Jennie, his son Ben (McKenna Middendorf) Dalsing and daughter Emilie (Colten Wessels) Dalsing. His parents, Mike and Judy Dalsing of Lake Wales, FL/Asbury, IA; sister Lynn (Ken) Rigdon of Asbury and their children Kaley (Matthew) Burgmeier, Zachary Rigdon and Jackson (Becca Lahey) Rigdon; and brother Todd (Kim) Dalsing of Minneapolis, MN and their children Isabelle and Xavier Dalsing. Mother-in-law Nancy Eisbach; sisters-in-law Tina (Dale) Berning of Hazel Green, WI and their children Nathan (Natalee) Vavra and Natalie Berning; and Julie (Bill) Black of Farley, IA and their children Nicholas (Patti Koster) Brecht,  Aidan, and Liam black; and his law enforcement family.

Mark joined his father in law Peter Eisbach, grandparents Maxine and LaVern Kowalski and Luella and Bernard Dalsing, and best friend Tony Richard in Heaven.

The Dalsing family would like to thank the Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque Fire Department Personnel, and emergency dispatchers that offered their assistance in an emergency moment. For 32 years, the department became another family. We cannot truly thank you all enough for everything. Thank you to Leonard Funeral home for honoring Mark as well.

A Mark Dalsing memorial fund had also been established for his favorite charities.

Jane M. Bastian

Jane M. Bastian, 84, of Galena, IL passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022. To celebrate Jane’s Life, family and friends may visit from 4 – 7 PM, Thursday, April 21, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Friday, April 22, 2022, at the funeral home. Burial will follow in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Galena.

She was born at Bowden Furnace near Council Hill on September 10, 1937, to Wallace and Albertha (Heim) Fellenzer. She was raised on the family farm with her two siblings, Richard, and Wayne. Jane graduated from Galena High School in 1955. She married Dale Bastian on June 25, 1955, at St. Michaels Church enjoying 41 years of marriage until his passing in 1997.

Jane was a wife, mother, and homemaker until the late 60’s when she began what would become a career on Galena’s Main Street for over 50 years. She started working at the Paradise, then owned by Irwin “Race” Kraemer, where she learned many skills that enabled her to purchase the Lamplighter in 1970 with her mother and brother.  For the next ten years, hundreds of daily specials, pizzas, and sandwiches would be served to loyal patrons, as well as many cocktails and beers. When her mom retired, they sold the business and Jane continued to maintain her career presence on Main Street through the years at Benjamins, The Galena Elks, The DeSoto House Hotel, and at her daughter Lisa’s Store, From Head-to-Toe Sportswear until she retired in 2016.  Jane enjoyed crocheting colorful afghans and warm cozy slippers. Socializing with friends and acquaintances was a favorite pastime. She took great pride in maintaining her yard with her John Deere mower.  She enjoyed her pickup truck and often cruised Main Street to see what was happening about town. Galena’s Main Street was her life’s love. There was the right way, the wrong way, and Jane’s way.

Those left to cherish Jane’s memory, two daughters, Dianne Phillips, and Lisa (Don “DJ” Johnston) Bastian; brother, Wayne (Bobbie) Fellenzer, brother-in-law, David Bastian, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Dale, brother, Richard Fellenzer; son-in-law, David Phillips, her mother and father-in-law, Leslie and Carrie Bastian; sisters-in-law, Dorothy (James) Laity and Shirley (Orville) Johnson; brother-in-law, Vernon (Pauline) Bastian; and Bobbi Bastian (David’s wife).

Special thanks to Dr. Liaboe and Nurse Trish at Grand River Medical, and the dedicated professionals at Hospice of Dubuque—especially Becky and Jessica—for their care and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Jane to Hospice of Dubuque, The Galena Foundation, or a Pet Shelter of choice.

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

Catherine A. Rauch

Catherine A. “Kay” (Mezera) Rauch, age 83, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:30 a.m., on Easter Sunday, April 17, 2022, at Dubuque Specialty Care of a broken heart.  To celebrate Kay’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Friday, April 22, 2022, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa.  Funeral services will be held on Friday at 11:00 a.m., at Holy Ghost Church, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date following cremation.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Kay was born on February 12, 1939, in Prairie du Chien, WI, daughter of Martin and Helen (Cejka) Mezera.

Kay was born, raised and attended school in Prairie du Chien.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Edward Rauch, on June 7, 1958, in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.  Sadly, he passed less than a month ago on March 22, 2022, after 63 years of marriage.  Kay was always a hard worker, and began her working career with Rapid Die in Cassville, Wisconsin.  After moving to Dubuque, she went to work for the Eska Company, as well as cleaning at PSSI in Kieler, and several private homes, for many years.  She loved to clean, but no doubt the job she was meant to do was becoming an attendant on the bus for children with disabilities for the Dubuque Community School District.  She truly loved helping the children and finally retired after 25 years.  When Kay wasn’t working she loved to spend time in the kitchen cooking and baking, a talent that her family was very appreciative of.  In her younger days, Kay was quite the ice skater and dancer, with Polka music being her favorite.  More recently, she enjoyed reading, especially cook books, and doing word find puzzles.  She also liked playing Bingo and trying her luck at the casino with Ed.  She was a long time, faithful member of Holy Ghost Church and volunteered at the Dubuque Rescue Mission and the Food Bank.  The activity that brought Kay the greatest joy was definitely spending time with her family, and she loved attending the grandchildren’s events.  Kay was a wonderful, caring, hard working woman who always put her family first.  She will be greatly missed, but we know that she is now happily reunited with her beloved husband, and all of her other family members, in her Heavenly home.

Those left to cherish Kay’s memory include

her children,
Marsha Rauch, Dubuque, IA,
Terry (Patty) Rauch, Machester, IA
and Mark (Stacy) Rauch, East Dubuque, IL;

4 grandchildren,
Emily (Jon) Lang, Lauren (Ethan) Ronnebaum, Landen Rauch and Leah Rauch;

her great grandson,
Judah Lang;

her siblings,
Patty (Elmer) Valley,
Clara Powers,
Helen Ann (Doug) Jelinek,
Ronald (Gale) Mezara
and Raymond (Carol) Mezera;

and her sister-in-law,
Jetta Mezera.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Edward Rauch; a son, Larry Rauch; her siblings, Teresa (Frank) Langkamp, Florence (Ivan) Finney, Edward (Pat), Frank “Franny”, Andy and Clarence Mezera; and a brother-in-law, Terry Powers.

Kay’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care, and Care Initiatives Hospice, for all of their outstanding care.

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

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

Nita A. Dirks

Nita A. Dirks, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday evening, April 15, 2022, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, April 21, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Salem Lutheran Cemetery, Spragueville, Iowa.

Nita Ann Farrington was born on June 1, 1932, in Anamosa, Iowa.  She was the 3^rd of 18 children born to Walter and Eleanor (Pavin) Farrington.  She married Robert G. Dirks on July 23, 1950 in Jones County, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on June 1, 2003.

Nita had most notably worked for and retired from Beatrice Cheese in Preston, Iowa.  Through the years she had also worked at Sunshine Daycare and Preschool in Maquoketa, Jackson County Public Hospital, the Green Mill Café, and multiple other cafés as a cook.

Nita was a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa.  She enjoyed crocheting, puzzles, and Bingo.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Susan Neunaber of Anamosa, IA, Robin (Jack) Gibson of Elwood, IA, Ricky Dirks of Lost Nation, IA, Mark Dirks of Maquoketa, IA, Royce Johnson of Sabula, IA, Walter Dirks of Dubuque, IA, and Matthew (Becky) Dirks of Maquoketa, IA; bonus daughter, JoAnn Clark of Onslow, IA; daughter-in-law, Ellie Dirks of Maquoketa, IA; 40 grandchildren, 73 great-grandchildren, 5 great-great-grandchildren; and siblings, Norma Arndt of AZ, Paul Farrington of Las Vegas, NV, Robert Farrington of AZ, David Farrington of Las Vegas, NV, Larry Farrington of Anamosa, IA, Linda McGovern of Anamosa, IA, Tony Kurth of OR, Judy Howard of AZ, Dale Farrington of AZ, Thomas “Hank” Farrington of Anamosa, IA, and Becky Fronzaglio of AZ.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert, sons Berdette and Melvin, daughter-in-law Bev Dirks, son-in-law Jr. Johnson, great-grandchild Tricia Durkop, and siblings Patty Zimmerman, Carol Heady, Iris Mettler, Samara Sams, John Farrington, and Bill Farrington.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Nita A. Dirks memorial fund has been established.

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

Rodney J. Freiburg

Rodney J. (Rod) Freiburg, 70 of North Buena Vista, Iowa and formerly of Kellogg, Minnesota, passed away March 2, 2022, at Veterans Hospital in Iowa City. Rod was born December 7, 1951 at UI Hospital in Iowa City, to Aloysius (Al) Freiburg and Loretta Kloser Freiburg. Rod graduated from Wabasha, Minnesota high school in 1970. He joined the US Navy in September of 1975 serving on the USS Monticello and was honorably discharged in September of 1981.

Rod grew up in Kellogg, Minnesota but lived most of his life in Buenie and was known by his family and friends as Dewfletcher. He enjoyed driving semi for Jack Link Trucking in Dyersville, Iowa for many years taking his dog, Bud, along for companionship.

Survivors include a brother Gary (Joyce) Freiburg, Lake City, MN and nieces and nephews: Jeff Miller, Julie Pressler, Joni Kuchan, Dan Bissen, Tim Cumisky, David Freiburg, Kathleen Martindale, Randy Morrison, Lisa Morrison. Rod is also survived by many Kloser cousins and Freiburg relatives in Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents Loretta and Al, sisters Janet (Art) Tietjen, Donna (Dick) Miller and Lori Rehm, and a brother Tom Freiburg, all of Minnesota.

Rod’s family would like to thank his friends and neighbors who helped make it possible for him to live his final years in Buenie as he wished. Most importantly we are grateful to Rod’s Buenie family, the Breitbachs, Pam and Alan as well as Mary and Dave. He was known as their ‘Ray of Sunshine’ at Breitbach’s Garage. It was through their kindness and generosity that Rod was able to stay in Buenie. Also thanks to those who helped to make Ed’s (Breitbach) trailer handicapped accessible and provided assistance in other ways. They include Fritz Hefel and crew for building the awesome wheelchair ramp, Kristen and Travis of Mel’s Carpet Outlet for flooring and installation, Shari Hefel who served as his barber, Paul Ludovissy for helping with transportation for VA appointments, the Holy Cross North Buena Vista Fire Department for their assistance when needed and the Veterans Hospital for his care.

His cremation was provided by the US Cremation Society in New Hampton. Military services and burial will take place in the Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery in North Buena Vista on Saturday, April 23, at 10:00 am.

Edward R. Hermsen

Edward R. Hermsen, age 79, of Dyersville, IA, completed his earthly journey peacefully on April 13, 2022, at MercyOne in Dyersville.  To honor Edward’s life, a private family burial will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery at a later date.

Edward “Junior” was born on October 17, 1942, in Luxemburg, IA, a son to Edward and Florence (Vaske) Hermsen, Sr.  He was raised on a farm with a strong work ethic and a desire to enjoy life to the fullest. Ed provided for his own family with John Deere Dubuque Works in his early years, but eventually found his way into the driver’s seat as an over the road trucker.  He was proud to have driven a million miles without an accident or ticket. He embraced the spirit of one of his favorite songs, I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash.  Ed enjoyed polka and bluegrass music and country dancing. If you threw in some relaxing and light-hearted conversation, he was sure to be content with the day.  Ed looked forward to family gatherings, local baseball games and Hawkeye basketball. We pray that he is at peace from his earthly battles due to cancer and have no doubt that he will make friends in heaven just as easily as he did here among us.  Thank you, Ed, for walking through your days with an easy smile, positive attitude and for being our guardian angel as we travel the highways.   Ed left a legacy in his children and grandchildren of a love for adventure and an open mind.

Those surviving Ed include his children in whom he took great pride: Wayne (Kimshiro Benton) Hermsen of Dyersville, IA, Joan (Charles Hoover) Hermsen, Amy Hermsen, Jill (Lance) Wood of Columbia, MO, Christine (Jason) Krueger of Weston, WI, and Dean (Kristen Hinz) Hermsen of Rothschild, WI.  Ed’s grandchildren include: Ian, Norah, Garrett, TJ, Maya, Matthew, David, Owen, Theo, Wyatt, Elin and Elliott. He is also survived by his brother, Donald (Grace) Hermsen; his sister-in-law, Sharon Hermsen; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Wilma, in infancy; and his brother, Charles Hermsen.

Ed’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital and MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care over the last two months.

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

Sister Arturo Cranston, OP

Sister Arturo Cranston, OP, died April 10, 2022.

Professed in 1956, she taught music in the following schools: St. Cajetan, Chicago; St. Peter, Anaconda, MT; Bethlehem Academy, Faribault, MN; St. Robert, Shorewood, WI; Regina, Minneapolis; Dominican, Whitefish Bay, WI; Sacred Heart Academy, Washington, DC; St. Mary, Piscataway, MD; and SS. Faith, Hope, and Charity, Winnetka, IL. She studied recreation and natural resources and combined all her passions as director of Camp WeHaKee (now WeHaKee Camp for Girls) in Winter, WI. Sr. Arturo dedicated herself to building up the physical camp and developing young women who were confident and compassionate. She believed a strong person was one who showed respect for others and could have honest, forthright conversations that led to a peaceful outcome. “Peace is the resolution of conflict, not the absence of conflict,” Sr. Arturo said. Her last fulltime ministry was serving as prioress of St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI.

Services will be at Sinsinawa April 19-20. Miller Funeral Home is handling arrangements. May she rest in peace.

Linda A. Somerville

Linda A. Somerville, age 73, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on April 12, 2022, at MercyOne in Dubuque, while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Linda’s life, a Celebration of Life will be planned for a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Linda’s family.

Linda was born on July 11, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Paul A. and Rosemary E. (Pfiffner) Noonan.  Linda grew up with three major driving forces in her life: family, friends, and fun.  She always understood that life had its daily responsibilities, but once those were met, life also required a little balance for true joy to be discovered.  Linda was united in marriage to the love of her life, James “Jim” Somerville on Valentine’s Day in 1970, and the couple was blessed with 52 wonderful years together and one son to complete the family she had always dreamed of.  She spent many of her working years as a medical receptionist with Dr. Jecklin, DDS, but finished out her career working in the insurance and billing department with Lockhart Noonan Chiropractic.  She enjoyed her work, but nothing could compare to the time which followed where she would be surrounded by her family and friends in a more relaxed environment.  Linda was lovingly known as a campfire aficionado and spent countless evenings sitting around the perfect fire with her loved ones.  She and Jim were blessed to do quite a bit of traveling in the camper and never passed up an opportunity to have those they cared about right alongside them.  Linda made it a priority to always be present at her grandchildren’s sporting events and also found great joy when they were able to sit down beside her when her Green Bay Packers were on the field.  Linda also enjoyed tending to her flowers and would even welcome a nice competitive game of darts from time to time if the mood struck her.  She was a very outgoing people person who could make friends without almost no effort at all.  She appeared to move seamlessly throughout the community around her and thoroughly enjoyed each and every new friend that she made along the way.  It’s been a very difficult year with Linda’s accelerating health issues on top of the already bumpy 20 years she’s had to face.  Thankfully, she never had to face any of it alone and always knew that those she loved also had a more than sufficient amount of love to share with her along the way.  We will miss our beloved Linda more than words could ever accurately depict, but for now we will simply attempt to find some moments of peace within the dark days ahead and pray that Linda now finds peace from her earthly battles.  Thank you, Linda, for never giving up and may the beautiful memories which you leave behind for us help to ease the heavy and broken hearts we find ourselves holding in your absence.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Linda include,

her loving husband,
James T. “Jim” Somerville, Dubuque, IA;

her son,
Brian T. (Laura L.) Somerville, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Austin T., St. Petersburg, FL,
Zachary J., Leadville, CO,
and Peyton E., resides at home;

her siblings,
Sandy Theisen, Dubuque, IA,
Bonnie (John) Streinz, North Liberty, IA,
Nancy Noonan, Dubuque, IA,
Dr. Gene (Robin) Noonan, Dubuque, IA,
and Scot ( Dr. Laura) Noonan, Baraboo, WI;

her sister-in-law,
Jan (Roger) Edwards, Georgia;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Rosemary Noonan; her grandson, Ethan J.; her father and mother-in-law, Glenn and Elizabeth “Biz” Somerville; and her brother-in-law, Robert Somerville.

Linda’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, ManorCare, Stonehill, and Dubuque Specialty Care for all of their professional and compassionate care over the last year.  Your kindness helped to make some of the more difficult days just a little easier to handle.

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

Shirley Melloy

Lumilda Frommelt

Lumilda “Lu” Frommelt, 92, of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at Finley Hospital.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, April 18, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 19, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. Rev. Steven Garner will officiate. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Lumilda was born March 1, 1930, the daughter of John and Mary (Herrig) Muenster. She grew up in St. Catherine’s, and married George Frommelt on October 22, 1960 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Dubuque. He preceded her in death on July 30, 2003.

Spending time with her family was her greatest joy. She loved being a grandma and great-grandma, and was known as “Grandma Gertie” and  “Milda”. Lu enjoyed sewing and knitting and had a very strong Catholic faith.

Lumilda is survived by her daughter Aimee (Gene) Manternach, her daughter Nina (Dave) Bergthold, her son Greg (Nicki) Frommelt, her son Brian (Pam) Frommelt, her daughter Shawna (Jay) Cone. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Joe Muenster, John (Bobbi) Muenster, and Barb (Bob) Armstrong; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.