Obituaries Archive

Mary Ann Hoeger

Mary Ann Hoeger, 84, of Guttenberg, Iowa passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Guttenberg Municipal Hospital surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg. Funeral services will commence at 11:30 a.m. Rev. Paul Ameyaw will officiate. Burial will be held at a later date.

Mary Ann was born on January 30, 1941, in Guttenberg, Iowa, the daughter of Edgar and Augusta (Block) Handke. She was the youngest of 12 siblings. She started out at Country School and graduated from Guttenberg High School. Mary Ann married LaVern Hoeger on June 30, 1962, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Guttenberg.

She enjoyed fast cars, especially Randy’s Chevelle. The Iowa Hawkeyes were a staple in Mary’s life and would often listen and watch any Hawkeye events. She had a great fascination for owls and wolves. She had a quick-wit about her and will be missed by many.

Survivors include her husband of 62 years, LaVern Hoeger, Kevin (Michelle McDermott) Hoeger of Guttenberg, Randy (Jenn Hinzman) Hoeger of Guttenberg; grandchildren: Maranda Hoeger, LeAnna (John) Jaeger, Andrea Hoeger, Scott (Catie) Hoeger; great-grandchildren: Rheagan, Justus, Kaiven, Novah, and Payton; and a beloved dog, Keisha; siblings: Eugene Handke, Gusty (Marvin) Gloeckner; sister-in-law, Germaine Hoeger; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings: Florence (Richard) Duwe, Bernice (Harry) Perman, Edna (Emery) Hansel, Arlene (Melvin) Thein, Roland (Margurite) Handke, Raymond (Josephine) Handke, Clarence (Lillian) Handke, Edgar (Arlene) Handke, Laverne Handke; parents-in-law, Lawrence and Adeline Hoeger; in-laws: Ella Handke, Merlin Hoeger, and Adele (Gerald) Block.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Helen S. Feyen

Helen S. Feyen, 91, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Helen will be 10:30 am Friday, May 9, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Cemetery in Dyersville.

Helen was born February 18, 1934, in Holy Cross, the daughter of Edward and Frances Gansemer Meyer. On October 9, 1954, she married William Patrick Feyen at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died September 27, 2009.

Helen served as a lunch administrator at Beckman Catholic High School for 25 years.

Helen was a devoted member of the Church of the Resurrection and past member of Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Church in Dyersville, where her faith was an important part of her life. She had a zest for living and filled her days with hobbies she loved; golf, bowling, crocheting, and tending to her flower garden. Helen also had a competitive spirit and never turned down a good game of Euchre.

A true sports fan, Helen was an avid supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs with her husband. But above all, Helen’s greatest joy came from her family. She deeply cherished time spent with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her great-great-grandchild.

While many people fill their homes with art, Helen’s walls proudly displayed her most treasured masterpieces – the faces of her beloved family.

Helen’s warmth, kindness, and sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her children, Chris (Terry) Leonard of Durango, IA, Pat (Michele) Feyen of Gordonville, TX, Cheryl Lammers of Asbury, Mike (Cynthia) Feyen of Shady Shores, TX, and Sarah (Jerry) Kummer of Sarasota, FL; 11 grandchildren, Mike, Tim, Kimberly, Joy, Christina, Angela, Lana, Teresa, Jake, Jessica, and Michael; 38 great-grandchildren; and one great-great granddaughter.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one brother, Jerome (Bernice) Meyer, four sisters, Anna Mae (Donald) Conlon, Mildred (Walt) Wedewer, Dorothy (David) Kupferschmidt, Mary (Owen) Nugent, one brother-in-law, Carl “Joe” (Lois) Feyen, and three sisters-in-law, Bette (Guy) Jettner, Adele Fath, and Lois (Vince) Fath.

A special thank you to Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

Memorials have been established to the Church of the Resurrection and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Cathy J. Durkop

Cathy J. Durkop, 73, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Maquoketa, IA surrounded by her loving family.

Cathy Jean Feisel was born on August 7, 1951 in Marshalltown, Iowa, to Mason and Barbara (Strellner) Feisel. A graduate of South Tama High School in 1969, Cathy’s love for learning led her to the University of Iowa, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1973. Her passion for education continued to flourish, and in 2005, she achieved her master’s in teaching with technology from The Franciscan University.

On June 28, 1975, Cathy married the love of her life, James Milton “Jim” Durkop, in Tama, Iowa. Their union was one of mutual respect, deep affection, and shared values. Together, they built a family and a legacy of love that would endure through their children and grandchildren. Cathy was a devoted mother, not only to her own children but to every child she taught during her 42-year tenure as a first-grade teacher at Cardinal Elementary School in Maquoketa.

Cathy’s professional life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her students and her colleagues. As a member of the Iowa State Education Association and the Maquoketa Education Association, she advocated the importance of quality education. Her involvement with the Jackson County Retired Teachers Association and the Jackson County Public Hospital Ladies Auxiliary further reflected her dedication to her community.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. As the Head of Education and a Sunday School teacher, Cathy touched the lives of many, imparting lessons of love, kindness, and faith.

Cathy found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as reading, watching Hallmark movies, and attending her grandchildren’s events. Above all, she cherished her role as Nana, a title that brought her immense pride and happiness.

Cathy’s memory will be honored by her children, Jamie Durkop of Davenport, IA, Jason (and girlfriend Adriane McClintock) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Jessica (and fiancé Austin DeMoss) of Delmar, IA, and Jillian (and husband Erik) Rockwell of Maquoketa, IA. Her legacy will live on through her four grandchildren, Clara, Ella, Arthur, and Campbell. She also leaves behind her siblings, Susan Feisel of Tama, IA, and Jeff Feisel of Toledo, IA; her aunt, Nancy Hanson of Cedar Rapids, IA; and her in-laws, Larry and Jan Durkop of Galena, OH.  Cathy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James, her son Joshua, and her parents.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Monday, May 5, 2025, from 5 P.M. to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again Monday, May 6, 2025, at First Lutheran Church from 9:30 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. Burial will be at Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Cathy J. Durkop memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert A. McLaughlin

Robert (Bob) A. McLaughlin, 90, of Dubuque, died on Friday, May 2, 2025, at his home with his family by his side.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory where there will be a prayer service at 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Bob will be at 11:00 am on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Bob was born March 1, 1935, in Maquoketa, IA, the son of Daniel and Elizabeth (Martin) McLaughlin.

Bob graduated from Loras Academy in 1952. While working for Interstate Power Company, he met the love of his life, Shirley Grace Ganahl. They married on August 13, 1955, and together raised four children. Shirley preceded him in death on November 26, 2022. Bob retired from Interstate Power Company as Supervisor of Operations in the computer department after 42 years.

Bob was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing softball, especially when he played for Interstate Power Company and several other teams over the years.  He also enjoyed bowling at Holy Trinity Lanes for many years, was an avid Green Bay Packers, Iowa Hawkeyes, and St. Louis Cardinals fan. Bob and Shirley took many trips together and especially savored time spent on the beach, boating on the Mississippi, and fishing in Aitkin, MN. Above all, Bob loved spending time with his family.

Survivors include his four children, Kim M. (James) Koetz of Centralia, IA, Mark R. (Joyce) McLaughlin of Phoenix, AZ, Kathryn A. (Grant Veitch) Yudys of Mauston, WI, and Kristine M. (Mark) Pregler of Dubuque; 11 grandchildren, Cassandra (Brandon) Schetgen, Kathryn (Tyler) Jones, Sarah (Tony) Richard, Jason McLaughlin, Tyler (Molly) McLaughlin, Athena McLaughlin, Nicole (Brian Gabry) Yudys, Joshua Yudys, Justin (Arellhi) Pregler, Brandon (Liz) Veitch, and Christina Veitch; 13 great-grandchildren, Felicity, Lucy, Cecilia, and James Schetgen, Francis, Gabriel, and Emilia Jones, Kolbe Richard with a sibling on the way, Jaxon, Ana Maria, and Elena Pregler, Addison and Mila Veitch; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by one brother, Thomas (Jeanne) McLaughlin; three sisters, Mary Delores (Roland) Scheitzach and Elaine and Doris McLaughlin in infancy; one grandson, Alex Veitch; and siblings-in-law, Robert (Nadine) Ganahl, Ken Ganahl, June (Paul) Seitz, and Joann (Lawrence) Williams.

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

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Finley Hospital and the Centralia-Peosta Fire Department especially, Brian, Andrew, and Levi, for all of their care.

Marie G. Fens-Capesius

Virginia Young

Virginia “Dinny” Young, 91, of rural Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center, Maquoketa.

Virginia Lorraine Hoerschelman was born on July 10, 1933, to Carl John and Ethelyn Beth (Bowman) Hoerschelman.  She graduated 3rd in her class from Maquoketa High School in 1951.  She worked at the Bon Ton Café in downtown Maquoketa and for the Jackson County Soil Conservation District.  Dinny married the love of her life Edwin Young on April 21, 1955.  They met when Edwin started the 5th grade and Virginia was in 3rd at the Esgate School and recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.  Together they farmed and in 1968 they started Young Septic Service, a business that continued for 55 years until the death of their son Larry on April 19, 2023.

Dinny was the organist for the East Iron Hill Church for over 50 years.  Despite having only 22 lessons, she was an accomplished pianist, playing both “by ear” and with sheet music.  She played with enthusiasm and “jazzed up” the songs she played, even hymns.  Her potato salad and pies were some of the best but hard to replicate since her “recipes” were often created with little measuring and “till it looks just right.”

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Edwin; sister Cheryl Heinrich; daughter and son-in-law Kathy and Norbert Gonnsen; grandchildren, Tyler (Laura) Gonnsen, Dakota Young and Samantha Byrd; great grandchildren, Ori and Eva Gonnsen and Ember Evans; daughter-in-law Betty Young; nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews (with one on the way). She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Larry and her brother-in-law Ronnie Heinrich.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa.  Burial will follow at East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 10:00 until 11:00 am on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center prior to the service.  Memorials may be made to Maquoketa Community Cupboard or to East Iron Hill Church in her name.

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

Sr. Edissa Mary Szczepanski, BVM

Sister Edissa Mary Szczepanksi, BVM, 91, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, 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 Edissa Mary was an elementary teacher at St. Patrick and St. Jude in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She also taught in Clinton, Iowa; Chicago; and Memphis, Tenn. She served as media specialist in Downers Grove and Maywood, Ill., and as media specialist, school librarian, school secretary, and an administrative assistant at a retirement facility, all in Chicago.

She was born on Dec. 29, 1933, in Chicago to Edward and Mary (Gdowski) Szczepanski. She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1952, from Our Lady of Angels Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on March 19, 1955, and final vows on July 16, 1960.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Edward (Elizabeth) Stevens. She is survived by two nephews, their spouses, and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 72 years.

Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Hwy 35 N, East Dubuque, Ill. 61025 is in charge of arrangements.

Nancy L. Borchers

Nancy Lee Borchers, age 81, of Asbury, IA, completed her earthly journey on April 27, 2025, at home with her loving husband of 60 years, Jack, by her side.  To honor Nancy’s life, a memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Grand View Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Drive in Dubuque, with Pastor Tom Shinkle officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:00–10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  A reception for Nancy’s family and friends will also be held immediately following her memorial service at the church.  Burial will be in the St. Peter Cemetery in Denver, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Nancy’s family.

Nancy was born on March 6, 1944, a daughter to George Fredrick and Alice Muriel (Parker) Knapp at Allen Hospital in Waterloo.  She was raised on the family farm in rural Bremer County and was an active member of her local 4H Club among other farm related activities.  Nancy attended a one-room schoolhouse through 6^th grade before completing her education in the Denver High School, Class of ’62.  Nancy was a devoted student and eagerly participated in several high school sports along the way.  Following graduation, she worked for two years with Ozark Air Lines in Waterloo.  She eventually married her high school sweetheart and friend since the first grade, Jack Borchers.  They were united in marriage on July 25, 1964, at the Grace Methodist Church in Waterloo.  Jack and Nancy made their way to the Dubuque area soon after and were blessed with 60 wonderful years together raising their own family while writing life’s story as each year passed.  Nancy was an accomplished crafter and baker and always enjoyed creating unique pottery items and baking when time allowed.  All who knew and loved her will always fondly cherish the memories of her Christmas candies.  Nancy was a longtime and faithful member of Grand View Methodist Church and was active in several of Grandview’s ministries.  Faith, family and friends brought Nancy her greatest joy and the absence of her love and light shining within all of them moving forward will surely be felt.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Nancy include,

her loving husband,
Jack Borchers, Asbury, IA;

her two sons,
Thomas (Kelly) Borchers, Carroll, IA,
and Nicholas (Culleen) Borchers, Flemington, MO;

her four adored grandchildren,
Elyse (Jeff) Rynning, Emma (Hunter) Simmons, Parker Borchers, and Ben Borchers;

her two great-grandsons,
Scottie Rynning and Crew Rynning;

her sister,
Jane Ann (Richard) Fauser, Cedar Falls, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Gene Knapp; and her grandchildren, Christian and Devan.

Nancy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Nancy and her family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Nancy’s name to Hospice of Dubuque, 1670 JFK Rd, Dubuque, IA, 52002, www.hospiceofdubuque.org, or Grand View Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Drive, Dubuque, IA, 52002.

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

Barbara S. Dague

Barbara S. Dague, age 83, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Sabula, Clinton and Maquoketa, completed her earthly journey on April 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Barb, a Celebration of Life will be held on May 17, 2025, at Boyer Hall, Jackson Co. Fairgrounds, Maquoketa.  A private family graveside service will be held at Reeseville Cemetery in Green Island, on June 12, 2025, which would have been Barb and Wayne’s 65th wedding anniversary.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving the family.

Barb was born on December 4, 1941, in Savanna, IL, daughter to Aksel and Mae Lovina (House) Johnson.  In her early years, Barb enjoyed working in the family store and making deliveries with her Dad.  Barb loved music, playing the piano and guitar, participating in school band, and was a tap dancer who, along with her sister made appearances on the local radio show.  She eventually met and married the love of her life, I. Wayne Dague on June 12, 1960.  They were blessed with two daughters to love, guide, and nurture.  They had over 55 wonderful years together until Wayne passed in 2015.  The couple worked hard and still made time for cards, horses, dancing, civic involvement, and pursuing their passions.  Barb was a beautician by trade, an instructor at the Professionals Academy of Science & Beauty, and even dabbled in retail and restaurant work.  Barb was a talented seamstress and applied her creative gifts while employed at Timber City Trophy.

She was a long-time and faithful member of the Calvary Lutheran Church in Sabula, a proud member of the Rebekah Lodge and a supporter of the East Central School Boosters.  Barb had a green-thumb and one of her beautiful African Violets was recognized at the county fair.  Barb loved her pets, baking cookies and time at the card table, whether playing for fun or competing for bragging rights.  Family and friends were familiar with her sassy and feisty demeanor but never doubted her commitment to finish the job, and to help others pursue their goals and to stay on the straight and narrow path.  Barb’s love was evidenced by the encouragement she offered through helpful words that, at times, felt more like a cattle prod or a 2 X 4.

Those left to cherish Barb’s memory and to carry on Barb and Wayne’s legacy are:

her two loving daughters,
Dagmar (Rick) Merfeld, Dubuque, IA,
and Amanda (Paul) Hook, Fulton, IL;

her ten adored grandchildren,
Erick Merfeld, Dubuque, IA,
Elijah (Sasha) Merfeld, Asbury, IA,
Ehren (Naomi) Merfeld, Oakdale, MN,
Alexandra Herink, Des Moines, IA,
Sean (Sydney) Hook, Marble Hill, MO,
Genevieve Hook, San Diego, CA,
Miah Hook, Clinton, IA,
Bella and Hannah Hook, Fulton, IL,
and Lila Hook, Fulton, IL;

her cherished great-grandchildren,
Sophia Schultz, Brayden and Easton Merfeld, Asbury, IA,
Sawyer and Sullivan Merfeld, Oakdale, MN,
Miah’s baby boy due in August, Clinton, IA,
and “bonus great grand”, Anastasia Smith, Iowa City, IA;

her sister,
Jolinda Hendrix, Tuckerton, NJ;

her in-laws,
Jane Dague, Robert Adney, and Shirley Dague, all of Maquoketa, IA;

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

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, I. Wayne; her in-laws, Ival and Helen Dague; brothers-in-law, C. Thomas Hendrix, Ronald “Ross” Dague, Sr., Darrell Manning, and Darrell “Pink” Dague; her sisters-in-law, Delores “Sis” Manning, Ella Adney, and Myrna Dague; her nephew, Christopher Hendrix; and her nieces, Marcia Lyons and Diane Dague.

The family thanks the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care, along with the excellent service and extraordinary empathy of Dr. Caceres and staff.  Special thanks to Charalin Simons for her blessings the past two years.

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

Betty A. Gonner

Betty Ann (Frank) Gonner, 91, formerly of Springbrook and Andrew, passed away April 29, 2025, at Mill Valley Care Center, Bellevue, Iowa. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 5, 2025, at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook.  Visitation will be 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Additional visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until Mass at church on Monday. Burial will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Cemetery.

Betty was born on September 7, 1933 to Hilda (Becker) & Albert Frank in rural Jackson County. She married Milton Gonner on May 8, 1954, in Galena, Illinois.  He passed on March 23, 2016.

Betty worked for the Bellevue Community Schools as a paraprofessional for over 20 years.  She loved to sew, embroider, and quilt.  While at Mill Valley, Betty painted 32 paintings with Dave Eischeid through the Bellevue Arts Council.

Survivors include her children Joan (Rich) McKim, Douglas Gonner, Mary (Michael) Petrek, Lori (Todd) Byerly, Paula Villhauer, and James Gonner. Betty has 10 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and one great-greatgrandchild on the way. Her surviving siblings and in-laws include Marvin Frank, Phyllis (Merlin) Wienen, Gary Frank, Ruth (Donald) Busch, Elsie Frank, Kenneth (Sandy) Frank, and Carma Frank.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, son Gary Gonner, daughter-in-law Linda Gonner, siblings and in-laws Arlene Frank, Lloyd Frank, Delcailee “Tiny” Frank, Mary Lou Frank, Kathleen (James) Cloos, Norma (Tom) Crouch, Lloyd (Judy Till-Kolker) Gonner, Merlin (Marcellene) Gonner, Glenna (Mark) Kueter, and David (Karen) Gonner.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Mill Valley not only for caring for their mom’s health needs, but also for the love they showered her with.

Memorials will be gifted by the family to organizations that were dear to her.

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

DiAnn K. Bowman-Portz

DiAnn K. Bowman-Portz (78) formerly of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully on Monday April 28, 2025, at Harmony Dubuque. IA.

Visitation will be from 4:00pm-7:00pm Wednesday May 7, 2025, at the Miller Funeral home in East Dubuque.  Viewing will also be available from 9:45am -10:15am prior to a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am Thursday May 8, 2025 at Nativity BVM Parish, Menominee, IL, with Fr. Edilberto Jarapa officiating.

She was born January 24,1947, daughter of Donald & Dorothy (Treanor) Hansen.

She married Dwaine Bowman in 1970 and later Charles Portz in 2006.

She was a graduate of Senior High School and worked at Vallet Food Service as a bookkeeper until their closing in 2010.

DiAnn loved her family more than anything. She cherished time with her family and friends.

Her pride and joy were her two sons, Donald (Donny) & Bryan Bowman. DiAnn absolutely adored her boys & their families. She was their biggest fan in all areas of their life.  She never ever missed a game or an activity where family was involved until her health began to decline.

She had a heart of gold, and she always put others first. Her home had an open-door policy. It was often a hangout for all her son’s friends.

She was an avid shopper and had a wonderful knack for finding the perfect gift(s) for all occasions.

She enjoyed traveling. One of her favorite places to visit yearly was Las Vegas.

She was a loving, thoughtful mother, wife, sister, aunt, grandmother, & friend to all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband, Charles (Chuck) Portz of East Dubuque. Her sons, Donny (Stacy) & Bryan (Lisa) Bowman. Six grandchildren: Jackson, Elly, Max, Derek, Samuel, & Treyten, all of East Dubuque.

A brother, Roland (Ron) Vicki Hansen. As well as several nephews, nieces & godchildren whom she loved as her very own.

Dear friends Ann (Tom) Beau and several in-laws in the Portz family.

DiAnn made the world a better place with her kind & generous heart. She taught her boys the value of family, loving unconditionally, working hard, & living life to the fullest! She faced any adversity in life gracefully, with a smile on her face. She was simply the best!

Rest in peace Lady Di. You are well loved and dearly missed.

Her family would like to extend sincere thanks & gratitude to Dr. Vandigo, the staff at Harmony, & her friend Leona Parker, & hospice nurse, Faith, for taking such wonderful care & assistance of DiAnn over the past 6 years. We are forever grateful for your dedication & attention to her well-being.

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

Shirley J. Bendixen

Shirley Jean (Ahl) Bendixen, 92, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Dubuque, Iowa. Born August 23, 1932, in Toronto, Iowa.  Shirley lived a life marked by dedication to her profession, her family and her community.

A proud graduate of Lost Nation High School’s Class of 1950, Shirley pursued further education at UNI Iowa State Teachers  College from 1950 -1951. She then attended St. Luke’s Hospital Radiology Technology School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she graduated as a licensed radiology technician in 1953. This achievement launched a remarkable career spanning six decades. Throughout her professional journey, Shirley worked at numerous hospitals, clinics and doctor’s offices, touching lives with her expertise and compassion before retiring in 2013.

Retirement did not slow Shirley down. Her deep love for coworkers and the friendships built over the years inspired her to volunteer for hospice and hospital services. Always eager to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Shirley found great joy in continuing to serve others well into her later years.

Family was the cornerstone of Shirley’s life. They are lovingly remembered by her children: Steven J Josvanger (Cindy Hammerlinck) of Davenport, IA; Linda K Josvanger Doran (Clint) Bettendorf, IA; Kent A Josvanger (Amanda) Dubuque, IA; Lisa M Josvanger-Russell, Sparks, NV. Shirley’s legacy also lives on through her grandchildren: Chad Oaks (Jennifer), Brandon Klugger (Laurie), Colby Josvanger, Shanelle Josvanger, Larsen Josvanger, Olivia Josvanger; as well as great-grandchildren Alexander Oaks, Aleigha Johnson, MacKenzie Klugger, Brady Klugger, and Maizie Klugger. Shirley also held a special place in her heart for her 3 nephews John Ahl (Ginger), Phillip Ahl (Rhonda), and Thomas Ahl (Coleen) along with many great nieces and nephews.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents Leonard V Ahl and Ruth A Ahl; a brother Wayne Ahl, sister-in-law Carol (Bath) Ahl; Harley C Josvanger (1st spouse); and Hans C Bendixen (2nd spouse).

An avid sports enthusiast from an early age, Shirley enjoyed playing basketball and softball growing up. Her passion for sports continued throughout life. She coached her daughter Linda’s Dad’s Club softball team for 2 years and attended softball, football and baseball games that all of her children participated in. Shirley had a few favorite teams that she would watch with family or friends. The Iowa Hawkeyes, the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers. Shirley loved dancing, traveling and playing cards.

Shirley’s vibrant spirit was evident to all who knew her. With a kind heart and an upbeat personality that never wavered, she was a friend to everyone fortunate enough to cross paths with her. Volunteering was not just an activity but a calling that brought immense fulfillment to Shirley’s life. She thrived on staying active and found great happiness simply being around loving family members, dear friends and cherished classmates.

Shirley was a long time member of Zion American Lutheran Church, Wyoming, Iowa. Her spiritual journey and beliefs never waivered. 

In parting words left for those she loved most–children, friends old and new, coworkers–she shared this heartfelt advice: “Live life to the greatest power “GOD”. May everyone be blessed and have a good life. Love from the “Old Gal” who would NOT give in or up!

May Shirley Jean Bendixen’s memory continue to inspire kindness, resilience and joy among all who knew her.

Sr. Susan Rink, BVM

Sister Susan Rink, BVM (Michaela), 97, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Dr., Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, April 27, 2025.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 2, 2025, 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.

In Dubuque, Iowa, Sister Susan was biology department chair and instructor at Clarke University, parish visitor at St. Patrick, office staff at AARP, and congregational treasurer.  In Chicago, she served as assistant dean and president of Mundelein College and ministered as a youth and substance abuse counsellor.  She also taught in secondary schools in Milwaukee and St. Louis.

She was born on Aug. 8, 1927, in Tulsa, Okla., to Raymond and Helen (McEvoy) Rink. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1948, from St. Patrick Parish, Dubuque, Iowa. She professed first vows on March 19, 1951, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1956.

She was preceded in death by her parents.  She is survived by cousins and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 76 years.

Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Homes, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, Dubuque, IA 52002 is in charge of arrangements.

Veronica M. Bender

Veronica M. Bender, 96, of Dubuque, died peacefully Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 3, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Mark Ressler officiating. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Saturday at the church. Private entombment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, is entrusted with arrangements.

Veronica was born on August 25, 1928, in South Dakota, the daughter of John and Margaret Kirchgesler. She was the 10th of 11 children and grew up on a farm near Aberdeen, South Dakota. In 1945 her family moved to Aberdeen, and she started her lifelong career in the grocery business. It is there she met Jake Bender, whom she married in 1947. After several moves in South Dakota and giving birth to six children, she and Jake moved to Dubuque, Iowa in 1963. At that time they opened Randall’s Foods until Jake retired.

She was an active member of St. Joseph the Worker Church since 1963. She served on the first parish council, working with Msgr. Martin and Bishop Dunn. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and card playing. A true lover of travel, she visited many countries. Some of her happiest times were spent taking her family on vacation cruises. Veronica was affectionately known as “Grandma B” by her 38 grandchildren and great- grandchildren. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

She is survived by her children, Linda (Bob) Burke, Judy McCarthy, Shirley (Craig) Koppes, Mary Fury, Randy (Marta) Bender, and Marty Bender; 14 grandchildren; and 24 great- grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jake; parents; 4 sisters; 6 brothers; and son-in-law, Dennis McCarthy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

Juanita D. Steichen

Juanita Dawn Steichen (Connor) passed away peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by love, her hair looking beautiful and her signature feather in place—just the way she would’ve wanted. In her final days, she was surrounded by her beloved children, grandchildren, and her cherished sister Cassie, celebrating the joyful engagement of her granddaughter Casey to Daniel (Goldberg). True to form, her last evening was spent enjoying a margarita at one of her favorite spots, Red Lobster, toasting to life and family.

Born in Galena, Illinois, Juanita was the daughter of Juanita May Connor (Deneen) and Donald L. Connor. She graduated from Galena High School – where surprisingly she played the flute- and later earned her nursing degree from St. Anthony’s Nursing School in Rockford, Illinois. Her dedication to caring for others defined her career, as she served faithfully as a nurse at Xavier and later Mercy Hospital until her retirement at age 65.

Juanita married the love of her life, Glen R. Steichen, and together they shared 45 years of marriage before his passing in 2002. She was blessed to find a second chapter of love with Lowell Wolter, her devoted partner of 15 years, who passed away in 2022.

A proud, lifelong fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Juanita was a 40+ year season ticket holder and attended many bowl games from coast to coast. She saw Caitlin Clark play live as a Hawkeye and never missed a football season, thanks to the unwavering support of Bruce and Mark LeGrand, and her son Gene, who made sure she never missed a chance to cheer on her team. Her one heartbreak: never seeing the Hawkeyes win a Rose Bowl, despite faithfully attending four of them. But she’ll be watching from above when that day finally comes.

Juanita had a joyful spirit and a deep love of music, dancing, anything Irish, and—most of all—her family. She was proud of each of her children and grandchildren:
• Cynthia Steichen (Denver, CO)
• Gene Steichen (Los Angeles, CA)
• John Steichen (Omaha, NE)
• Dawn Steichen Buscher and husband Richard Buscher (Dallas, TX)

Her beloved grandchildren brought her endless joy and pride:
Kayla Kenyon (Denver, CO); Casey Buscher (Dallas, TX) and fiancé Daniel Goldberg; Connor Buscher (Dallas, TX) and partner Katelynn Kennedy; and Connor Steichen (Omaha, NE).

She is survived by her devoted sister and best friend, Kathleen “Cassie” Ann Hollatz (Connor) of Minocqua, WI. She was preceded in death by her husband Glen, her partner Lowell, and siblings Marlene May Connor, D David Connor, John David Connor ( surviving Janet Connor of Galena), and PVT John Patrick “Jack” Connor, who died in combat during WW2. And her beloved late father in law Nicholas Steichen.

Juanita gave back to her community through her many years as a volunteer with the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps—a cause close to her heart. In her honor, donations may be made to:
Colts Youth Organization
2300 Twin Valley Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003
(563) 582-4872 | https://colts.org/give

Though we wish she could be here for future graduations, weddings, and Iowa victories, we know she’ll be watching—cheering us on with love, laughter, and a little bit of sparkle.

Special thanks to her long-term hair stylist, confidant, and friend, Penny Frazer Veach (Design Works), Lauren Austin, her chauffeur, friend, and partner in crime, and Angie McNamer who has always been a constant source of friendship and support for Juanita and her family.

Services:
Service scheduled for Saturday May 10, 2025
Visitation, 9am to 11 am at Miller’s Funeral home
1185 IL-35, East Dubuque, IL
11 am service followed by a celebration of life at Shorty’s:
288 Sinsinawa Ave, East Dubuque, IL 61025

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