Obituaries Archive

Nester W. Lampe

Nester W. Lampe, 92, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am Friday, September 30, 2022 at St. Donatus Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Nester will be 11:00 am Friday, September 30, 2022, at St. Donatus Catholic Church with Msgr. Daniel J. Knepper as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Nester was born May 30, 1930, in St. Donatus IA, the son of Leroy and Theresa Herrig Lampe. On January 19, 1957, he married Evelyn Dorothy Blaser at Holy Trinity Church in Dubuque.  She died May 18, 1997.  They celebrated over 40 years of marriage.

He retired from Dubuque Packing Company in 1992 after 40 years.

He was a member of Cathedral of St. Raphael, where he served as sacristan, usher, lecturer, and Eucharistic minister.  He was also a member of St. Vincent DePaul Society, and Luxembourg Heritage Society of Northeast Iowa. He enjoyed wine making, gardening, Christmas time, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He was a passionate Chicago Cubs fan and was delighted to see them finally win the World Series in 2016.

Survivors include three daughters, Karen (Wayne) Wagner of Mineral Point, WI, Julie (Steven) Alsip of Covington, KY, and Laura Lampe of Schaumburg, IL; three granddaughters, Ashley (Cameron) Neal, Amber (Jordan) Luch, and Skyler Alsip; one step-grandson, Brandon Alsip; two sisters-in-law, Dorothy Lampe and Juan Lampe.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Roman (Ann Marie) Lampe Sr, Maurice “Maurie” Lampe, Robert “Bob” (Irene) Lampe, Earl Lampe, Monica Vosberg, and Johanna Lampe.

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

The family extends a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kristen, Peggy, and Amy for their extraordinary compassionate and loving care.

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

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

Norma C. Anderson

Norma C. “Charlene” Anderson, age 83, of Cassville, WI, completed her earthly journey on September 24, 2022, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Charlene’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Alpena, MI.  Burial, with her husband Robert, will be in Alpena, MI at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Charlene’s family.

Charlene was born on April 25, 1939, in Detroit, MI, a daughter to Charles and Myrtle (Smith) Frantz.  In her early years, the family moved to Alpena, MI, where Charlene gained her education and as fate would have it, met her soul-mate, Robert Anderson, while playing clarinet in the high school band.  The couple was united in marriage directly after graduation and were blessed with three beautiful children of their own by the time she was 20 years old.  Life’s journey had them making a couple of moves with their family, but eventually they settled in Addison, IL, where Charlene and Robert owned and operated Robert’s Arts & Crafts until they both decided that it was time to move into retirement.  In search of the quiet life combined with their well-earned retirement, Cassville would be their final stop along life’s road.  Peace was discovered in many ways as the working days were left behind.  Watching the birds adorn the feeders, a little fishing on the river’s edge, cuddling up with a good book, and of course some quality time at the craft table were always a welcome part of any day.  Add in a little music in the background, some traveling when the mood struck, or her favorite hands down, loving up her grandchildren with an endless amount of love and adoration for each one to share in.  Charlene was a kind and caring woman who graciously spent more time worrying about others more than herself.  Her spirit and light were as bright as the evening stars on a crystal-clear night and her love was as endless as the heavens surrounding them.  Charlene’s legacy will live on for generations within the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her and we are forever grateful for the 83 years the Lord was generous enough to share her with us.  Thank you, Charlene, for leading with such elegance that you made it look all so easy and may your heavenly reunion you are experiencing now be as measurably joyful as our hearts are heavy for those you leave behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Charlene include,

her three adored children,
Steven Anderson, Cassville, WI,
DeDe (Jaime) Enriquez, Milwaukee, WI,
and Peggy (Jerry) Seif, Yorkville, IL;

her nine grandchildren,
Amanda (Craig) Martinez, Carol Stream, IL,
Melinda (Mike Dornan) Jablonski, Carol Stream, IL,
Tiffany (Stu) Cox, Las Vegas, NV,
James Enriquez, Milwaukee, IL,
Stevie (Pablo Goldstein) Anderson, Los Angeles, CA,
Judson (Dasha) Anderson, Palatine, IL,
Stacey (Mason) Oliver, Yorkville, IL,
Jacob Seif, Portland, OR,
and Levi (Julia) Seif, Portland, OR;

her nine great-grandchildren,
Simon, Adam, Jack, Leah, Sara, Xander, Phoenix, Axel, and Isla;

her sister,
Jeanne (Dan) Szymanski, Alpena, MI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Charlene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Anderson; her brother, Clair Frantz; and her grandson, Steven Thomas Anderson.

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

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

Robert Duster

Robert “Bob” Duster, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on September 24th, 2022, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, Iowa. Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday September 28th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where a funeral service will begin at 7:00 p.m.

Bob was born on October 5th, 1946, in Holy Cross, son of Edwin and Rita (Freiburger) Duster. His family moved to Dubuque when he was five and he has lived here ever since. He attended high school at Dubuque Senior High School. On July 4th, 1968, he was united in marriage to Mary Zugenbuehler at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque, Iowa. He served as a Private in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1966 to 1971. He was a member of the Key City Corvette Club.

He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company until he opened Dr. B’s Billiards and Ice Cream Parlor in 1985. After closing Dr. B’s in 1994, he worked at Lowes in the Tools Department, and at Hy-Vee where he was known by many to be one of their biggest smiles in his assigned aisles.

Bob loved spending time with family and friends. When he wasn’t belly laughing at Impractical Jokers with his grandson, Dylan, or watching his granddaughter, the Mighty Macer, pitching strikes, he enjoyed playing with their dog, Gunner. He also enjoyed sitting on his back patio listening to his radio while tossing back a Busch Light or two. Those who know him would say he was one of the best ‘dad joke’ tellers ever born.

Bob was also an avid billiards player, having won multiple first place team trophies over five decades of play. He was a life-long Hawkeyes fan and a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan. He enjoyed playing cribbage, especially with Junnie, his long-time friend. He also loved taking nice, long rides with his wife in their Corvette.

Bob is survived by his wife Mary, sons Shawn of Chicago and Chad (Becky) Duster of Asbury, grandchildren Dylan and Macey Duster of Asbury, siblings Darlene (Jim) Mullen of Sun City West, AZ, Rosie Arensdorf of Dubuque, Roger (Carol) of Dubuque, and Gary (Patti) Duster of Dubuque, sister-in-law Sue Duster, sister-in-law Sue (Robert) Westhoff of Dubuque as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Rita Duster, brother Ron Duster of East Dubuque, and brother-in-law Elmer Arensdorf.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque and Hawkeye Care Center of Asbury for taking such good care of Bob, whom they all came to know affectionately as Bobbo.

A Robert Duster Memorial Fund has been established.

Louis G. Soppe

Louis George Soppe, 82, of Monticello, Iowa passed away peacefully at Pennington Square Assisted Living on September 25, 2022. A public visitation will be held from 4-8 pm Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello.  Kramer Funeral Home is assisting the family. A mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello.  Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Louis was born on January 7, 1940, in Dyersville Iowa.  He was the oldest of nine children of Reynold and Albertha (Kelchen) Soppe. He attended school in Monticello until 8th grade, when he left to help out on the family farm and also worked for neighboring farmers. He later earned his GED and attended the police academy.

In 1973, Louis began working for the Monticello Police Department, becoming Chief of Police in the early 1990s. Louis, better known as Louie around Monticello, dedicated his life to the community. He loved people and enjoyed being known around town and teasing everyone he met. He retired in 2003 after 29 years on the force.

Prior to his career with the police department, Louis enjoyed a variety of employment opportunities. He also drove a school bus for Monticello Community School District for many years and served on the Monticello Fire Department from 1973-1996. He was a faithful member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello, Iowa.

In 1960, Louis married Anna Tuel and they had four children. They later divorced.

On December 21, 1991, Louis married the love of his life, Jerilyn (Jeri) King-Soppe. The two enjoyed camping, travel and spending time with family.

Louis is survived by his four children, Gayle (Gary) Reeder of Delhi, Bryan (Kathy) Soppe of Ankeny, Lou Ann Soppe of Cedar Rapids and Curtis Soppe of Monticello; his siblings, Connie (George) Helle of Anamosa, Leo (Donna) Soppe of Cascade, Diane (Al) Nerney of Oxford Junction, Carol Oberbroeckling of Farley and Deborah Steger of Dyersville; brother-in-law, Dave Holz of Dubuque, and sister in-law, Doris Soppe of Dyersville. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Jeri; his parents; his brothers, Andrew and Loras Soppe; sister, Beverly Holz; brothers-in-law, Bill Oberbroeckling and John Steger; and sister-in-law, Erma Soppe.

Online condolences may be submitted, and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Roman J. Bertling, Jr.

Darlene M. Turnmeyer

Darlene M. “Doodie” Turnmeyer, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in her sleep at 1:10 a.m., on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at Hawkeye Care Center.  To celebrate Darlene’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor Karla Wildberger officiating.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Darlene was born on June 1, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Gustav and Hazel (Stevens) Schulz.

Darlene was a life long resident of Dubuque where she cared for her home and 3 sons.  Darlene also served as the primary care giver for her mother for over 30 years, her brother Carl after his stroke and her son Boots after his motorcycle accident in his early 20’s.  She was a long time devoted member of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church where she was involved in the music program.  Darlene loved to play the organ, sing and dance and used her creative talents to write songs and poetry and create beautiful embroidery tablecloths.  In her younger days, she enjoyed going to Melody Mill to watch her brother play in the band and occasionally joined him on stage singing.  There was never any doubt that Darlene’s boys were her pride and joy.  She always said the boys were the greatest gifts in her life.  She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Darlene’s memory include

her 3 sons,
Walter “Wes” Harrison, Dubuque, IA,
William “Boots” Turnmeyer, Dubuque, IA
and Tim (Vicki) McIntyre, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Trissity Horkheimer and Brett McIntyre;

and a step-granddaughter,
Lisa Jansen.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; and 3 brothers, Harold (Mildred) Schulz, Carl Schulz and Jack “Shotz” Schulz.

Darlene’s family would like to thank Dr. Compton and all of the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding care of Darlene.

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

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

Donna Hefel

Donna Hefel, 74 of Galena, IL passed away Friday, September 23, 2022, at her home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Thursday, September 29, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM, Wednesday, September 28, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in St. Michael Catholic Cemetery, Galena.

She was born March 2, 1948, in Hazel Green, WI the daughter of Donald E. and Eldora M. (Lisk) Rury. Donna graduated from Galena High School in 1966. After school, she worked for the FBI in Washington, DC, and later worked 20-plus years for Dr. Darling. She was united in marriage to Clyde Hefel on November 29, 1969. They were blessed with one child Michael. Donna was one of the kindest people who always put others first. Her son and three grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life. Before getting sick she wouldn’t miss a sporting activity. She also enjoyed going on day trips with all her sisters.

She is survived by her husband of fifty-two years, Clyde Hefel, son Michael (Cindy Heller), grandchildren, Ethan, Addison, and Owen, two brothers, Don (Deb) Rury; Jerry (Joy) Rury; three sisters, Bonnie (Terry) Murphy; Debbi Houy, and Rebecca (Gerald Treat) Rury, a brother-in-law, Leo (Sharon) Hefel, and her many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, father and mother-in-law, Phillip and Mary Hefel; two sisters-in-law, Mary Allen, and Mary Hefel, two brothers-in-law, James Hefel and Robert Allen.

The family would like to thank Dr. Beth Gullone (Midwest Medical Center), Medical Oncology Clinic, Dr. Hermann, and especially the Hospice of Dubuque; nurse Jessica Studtmann for making her final days comforting and pain-free.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to Hospice of Dubuque in memory of Donna.

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

Brian S. Tschiggfrie

Brian Steven Tschiggfrie, 45, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 22, 2022.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 28, in the social space at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd. There will be a prayer service held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Thursday, September 29,  at 10:30 a.m. until the 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at Church of the Resurrection. Rev. Phillip Gibbs will officiate. Mass will be live-streamed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com . Interment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque.

Brian was born January 20, 1977 in Dubuque, the son of Steven and Kathleen (LoBianco) Tschiggfrie. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School with the class of 1995. After high school, Brian worked at Vallet Foods, and then at John Deere Dubuque Works, where he was currently employed. He was a member of the UAW Local 94.

In his younger years, Brian enjoyed playing soccer. He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan. Brian always had a smile, and was a friend to everyone. He was generous and fun loving- a big kid. Brian dearly loved his two daughters, Lily and Evalena, and made many cherished memories on their family vacations to Yogi Bear Campground and Disneyworld.

Brian is survived by his daughters, Lily and Evalena Tschiggfrie; his parents, Steve and Kathy Tschiggfrie; his sister, Amy (Justin) Mills; his fiancée, Lynsey Streif; his nieces and nephews, Haley, Joey, Olivia, and Brady, his aunts and uncles, Tony LoBianco, Steve and Ann Osterberger, John and Diane Tschiggfrie, and Dawn and Curt Mathe;  many cousins; and his best buddies- his dogs, Esme and Wrigley.

Brian was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ray and Phyllis Tschiggfrie; his maternal grandparents, Stan and Mary LoBianco;  his uncles and aunts, Deacon Tim and Teresa LoBianco, Joe and Traci LoBianco, and Lisa LoBianco; and his beloved dog Sari.

The family would like to thank all the first responders, especially the Dubuque Police Department, for all their help and kindness.

Billy L. Stant

Billy Louis Stant, 75, of Dubuque, died Friday, September 23, 2022, at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:15 am Saturday, October 1, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church.

The Funeral Service for Billy will be 10:30 am Saturday, October 1, 2022, at First Presbyterian Church with Rev. Stephanie Ells officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Billy was born February 4, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Francis  M. and Barbara B. Birkel Stant. On November 4, 1972, he married Karen Ann Hahn in Dubuque.

He was a 1965 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War.

He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years.

Billy was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church, where he served on the Board of Trustees, as Elder, and sang in the choir with his wife. He was a member of AMVETS in Florida. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He also enjoyed bowling and a good game of cards.

Survivors include his wife, Karen; two sons, Paul Stant and Mark (Debbie) Stant, both of Dubuque; three grandsons, Nathan Stant, Anthony Stant, and Andrew Stant; one great-granddaughter, Katalina Stant; one sister, Sandy (Sam) Spencer of Dubuque; and five nephews and nieces, Tom, Tim, Tracy, and Terry Boelk, and Stephanie Morales.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Viola Boelk.

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

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

Christie L. Priebe

Christie L. Priebe, age 66, of Asbury, IA, completed her earthly journey on September 21, 2022, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Christie’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Christie’s family.

Christie was born on July 26, 1956, in Prairie Du Chien, WI, a daughter to Robert “Bob” and Yvonne “Bun” (Riley) Peters.  She prided herself on keeping life simple and focusing on family and friends.  Christie enjoyed listening to music in her free-time and was always willing to cuddle up with a good book whenever the opportunity presented itself.  Having her favorite cat, Zoey, on her lap at any point in the day was also among the moments Christie enjoyed most.  It’s difficult to imagine life moving forward without her in our daily lives, but we will surely lean firmly on the beautiful memories which she leaves behind to help heal and comfort our broken hearts.  Thank you, Christie, for reminding us to stop and enjoy life when we can and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Christie include,

her daughter,
Kaitlyn Ludovissy, Asbury, IA;

her two grandsons,
Shawn Ludovissy, Asbury, IA,
and Matthew Ludovissy, Asbury, IA;

her two brothers,
Larry (Marilee) Peters, Marion, IA,
and Robert “Bob” (Beth) Peters, Monona, IA;

her three nephews,
Colin (Jess) Peters, Marion, IA,
Riley Peters, Marion, IA,
and Ryan (Haley) Ferre, Memphis, IN;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Christie was preceded in death by her parents.

Christie’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Christie over these last months.  May the love you’ve shared so generously with us return to you many times over!

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

John Bronson

John “JB” Bronson, 58, of Dubuque, Iowa, died peacefully on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, at his sister’s home in Baldwin.

A celebration of John’s life will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Friday, September 30, 2022, at The Eagle’s Club in Maquoketa, Iowa with a message of comfort from special brothers Jason Rubel and Kevin Schmidt at 6:30 p.m.

John Michael Bronson was born on May 5, 1964, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Johnie Leroy and Mary Jane (Ruchotzke) Bronson. He graduated in Maquoketa in 1982. John worked for many years in construction, and most recently worked at Andersen Windows and Doors in Dubuque.

John lived life to the fullest.  A quiet man, he nevertheless enjoyed being where the action was, whether that was riding motorcycle with friends, getting muddy on ATVs, being at live music events, or throwing darts and playing foosball, John enjoyed being around people and making friends.  The friends he made were lifelong friends, as John had a quality that despite his quiet personality, people were drawn to him and enjoyed his company.  This is not surprising, as he was always one to offer a helping hand or to be there for them when needed.  John suffered with addiction problems through much of his life, which caused strain on some family relationships, but these last years when he had conquered his demons were some of the best of his life. They allowed John the opportunity to overcome his fears, return to his family both old and new, and show them the person he always had the potential to be.  In his last years he showed everyone how dear to him his large extended family was, and he spent all the quality time with them that he could going to parks, museums, live music, and family gatherings.   These last years were truly a blessing for John and his family and enjoyed by all.

John is survived by a daughter, Lindsay Renee Bodenhofer; son, Brandon Michael Bodenhofer; son, Jace Louis Bronson; siblings, Jean (Jim) Trenkamp of Preston, Terry (Brenda) Bronson of Maquoketa, Steve (Julie) Bronson of Illinois, Susan Keil (Ed Simonin) of Baldwin, Pat (Michelle) Bronson of Maquoketa, Kathy (Greg) Sullivan of Maquoketa, twin sister JoAnn (Joe) Hovey of Washington, Mary (Rod) Keeney of DeWitt, and Dave (Deb) Bronson of New York; grandsons, Kohl, Christian, Henry, George, and Dolyn;  granddaughter, Adrian; great granddaughters, Linnea and Eva; aunt, Bernetta Ruchotzke; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Johnie Bronson, mother, Mary Jane Bronson, sister Bernedette Bronson, and grandson Joey Edwards.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a John “JB” Bronson memorial fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Mary E. Seitz

Austin J. Gaul

Austin J. Gaul, 25, of Farley, Iowa, passed away, Saturday, September 17, 2022, from injuries sustained in a farming accident.

Visitation for Austin will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Friday, September 23, 2022, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial for Austin will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 24, 2022, at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will follow in the St. Clements Cemetery.

Austin was born on February 9, 1997, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Mark and Jean (Maiers) Gaul. He was a 2015 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  Austin was a member of 4-H, and Future Farmers of America. He worked for Kluesner Construction Inc. in Farley, Bergfeld Trucking in Epworth, and also enjoyed working on his family farm.

Austin was a very kind hearted, giving, and hard-working person, who went out of his way to help others.  He would often pick up trucking routes to allow others to have time off with their family.  Austin loved to drive; if it had a steering wheel and a motor, he would drive it.  He especially loved driving his trucks and the farm equipment.   He enjoyed his Dodge Trucks, John Deere Tractors, and listening to hard rock music.

Those left to cherish his memory are his parents, Mark and Jean Gaul of Farley; two brothers, Brady and Carter Gaul both of Farley; paternal grandparents, LeRoy and Mary Jane Gaul of Dyersville; aunts and uncles, Dennis (Trisha) Gaul of Epworth, Sue (Gerardo) Chavez, and Pam Gaul both of Monterey, CA, Mary (Sam) Bran of Solon, Rose (Ed) Bracken of Iowa City, Jan (Doug) Brimeyer of Jackson, WY, and Carol (John) Eubank of Urbandale; and numerous cousins.

He is preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Leon and Harriet Maiers; one uncle, Terry “Flash” Gaul; and one aunt, Karen Gaul.

Anyone may view the Video Tribute and give condolence online at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Nancy O’Connor

Nancy O’Connor, 84, of Ankeny, passed away September 17, 2022, in Hubbard, Iowa.

Nancy Page O’Connor was born December 18, 1937, in Grinnell, Iowa to Marian Manetta (Russell) and James Franklin Page. She graduated from Guttenberg High School in 1956. She was united in marriage to Lowell O’Connor on June 25, 1960. Six children were born into this union. Nancy was widowed at a young age and devoted her life to the care of their children.

Nancy worked to put Lowell through medical school. She was the first female city council person in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Nancy worked as a merchandiser for Hallmark Marketing for over twenty-five years. She loved to travel, garden, sew, read, jigsaw puzzles, baseball and spend time with her family. She was happiest in an auditorium, on a bleacher, golf course, or field cheering on her children and grandchildren. She demonstrated to her family how to live a life of hard work, adventure, perseverance, and how to find laughter in the things that break our hearts.

Nancy is survived by her children, Maureen (Frank) Pena, Colleen (Randy) Merkle, Kate (Kari Roehr) O’Connor, Patrick (Lisa) O’Connor, Michael O’Connor, and Mary O’Connor; her beloved grandchildren, Tiffany (James) Sheldon, Bryan O’Connor, Courtney (Anthony) O’Connor, Emily Merkle, Matthew Merkle, Molly Barten, and Maggie Barten; great-grandchildren, Gavin, Elliana, Micha, and Iyla; and many dear nieces and nephews.

Nancy was preceded in death by her cherished husband, Lowell; her parents; her sister, Margo Vugrinovich; brothers, Bill Page and Marshall Page; her brothers-in-law, Frank O’Connor, Bernard O’Connor, Louis O’Connor, and John Vugrinovich; sisters in law, Darlene O’Connor, Jean O’Connor, and Mary Lou Page; nephew, David Page; and niece Anne Luepke.

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to Hubbard Care Center for their loving care in Mom’s final year.

A visitation will be held from 1 – 2 pm Saturday, October 15, 2022 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Graveside committal service will be at Saint Francis Xavier Cemetery following the visitation.  Kramer and Hamilton Funeral Homes have been entrusted with the care of Nancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Hubbard Care Center, 403 South State Street, Hubbard, IA 50122, University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center/Melanoma Program, and/or My NESCO Health/NESCO Family Medical Clinic.

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

Patrick E. Finn

Patrick E. Finn 91, of Dubuque passed away Sunday, September 18, 2022 at Stonehill Care Center.  To honor Pat’s wishes there will not be a visitation or funeral. A private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pat’s family.

Born March 21, 1931, in Chicago, IL the only child of James D. and Hermie B. (Even) Finn.

Pat grew up in Chicago, IL, a few blocks from Wrigley Field, which led him to be a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.  He attended Our Lady of Mt Carmel and Lane Tech High School in Chicago before moving to Dubuque as a teenager with his mother to be closer to her family.

He was a member of the Illinois and Iowa National Guard and served in the Army during the Korean War.  Pat liked to share that he completed The Infantry School’s Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, GA, certifying him as a Parachutist.

He married Mourine C. (Rene) Link on June 2, 1956, at Holy Ghost Church.  They were married 29 years prior to her death on November 22, 1985.

He retired from the City of Dubuque street department in 1991 after 30 years. After retirement his fulltime “job” was to play golf five days a week. He was proud of his hole in one that he shot on March 25, 1997.

Pat enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.  When Pat was physically able he would visit his children daily going from one house to the next. He also enjoyed playing euchre, solitaire, and watching sports. He believed every special occasion and birthday should be celebrated with a DQ ice cream cake.

Pat is survived by his children:

Patty (Mike) Copeland of Cuba City, Jim (Pam) Finn of Dubuque, Cathy (Dennis) Copeland of Dubuque and Sandy (Jerry) Powers of Sherrill.

Grandchildren:

Melissa Silver, Matt (Sam) Copeland, Tanya (Jamie) Roethler, Nakia (LaMarr) Martin, Eric (Heidi) Copeland, Chad (Mallory) Finn, Mitchell, Morgan (Anthony Tuttle) and  Madalyn Powers.

11 great grandchildren;

and close friends, Bob and Dana Boleyn.

He was preceded in death by wife and a great grandson, Cash Copeland.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, along with the 3rd floor and 3HH staff at Stonehill Care for their professional and compassionate care of Pat this past year.

Online condolences for Pat’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com