Obituaries Archive

Jim Post

Jim Post, 82, of Galena, IL passed away peacefully on September 14, 2022. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

Born in Houston on October 28, 1939, Jim’s musical talent was readily acknowledged when he won a broadcast radio competition at the age of six. A natural storyteller, he would often comment that he never worked a day in his life because he loved entertaining and relished his ability to use his voice to connect with people and the world around him. Jim first came to prominence as a seminal part of the great Chicago Folk Revival, performing frequently at the Earl of Old Town with his friends Steve Goodman, Bonnie Koloc, and John Prine. He became a folk music legend and acclaimed theatre artist. His numerous accomplishments included successful recordings, concert tours, and stage productions that entertained and enlightened his audiences Jim composed and performed original musicals including Galena Rose, Mark Twain, and the Laughing River, Heart of Christmas, and Mark Twain’s Adventures Out West. His international hit song with Friend and Lover, Reach Out of the Darkness, was featured at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. With the timeless refrain “It’s so groovy to know/that people are finally getting together,” it’s been featured on AMC’s Mad Men and in the films 1969 and Cheaper by the Dozen. Jim performed Galena Rose and Mark Twain at the Civic Theatre in Chicago’s Lyric Opera House, the Organic Theater, Northlight Theatre, the Guthrie Theatre, the Smithsonian in DC, and at the English Theatre in Vienna, Austria. Jim recorded many albums including Jim Post and Friends, The Crooner From Outer Space, I Love My Life, Rattlesnake, and his last cd Reach Out Together. He collaborated with great musicians such as Randy Sabien, Howard Levy, David Bromberg, Rollo Radford, Jerry Miller, Anne Hills, and a host of others. He also wrote songs for noted artists like Corky Siegel’s–Hey Billie Jean. Jim loved singing for children and his weekly performances at the Cookie Crumb Club captivated the hearts of families. His books Barnyard Boogie and Frog In The Kitchen Sink became fan favorites. He also co-created Reading by Ear, a musical program to help children learn to read phonetically. Among the highlights of Jim’s career were appearances at major North American music festivals, most recently, the Summer of Love 40th Anniversary Reunion in San Francisco. He was featured on and hosted countless appearances on radio’s WBEZ’s Flea Market and The Midnight Special on WFMT. Other musical homes included the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, IL, The Fifth Peg in Chicago, IL, Amazing Grace in Evanston, IL, Charlotte’s Web in Rockford, IL, and the Trolley Depot Theater in Galena, IL. Jim was known as the bard of Galena, IL, where he lived for nearly 50 years. Anyone who ever spent time listening to his golden voice live or on record or attended one of his concerts or musicals in person is much richer for the experience— his infectious good humor, love of life, and masterful songwriting shine through every note and will live on as long as humans have ears to hear.

Jim will be missed by his extended family, friends, and devoted fans. Interment services will be private. A musical celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a future date.

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

Abbey S. Ehrler

Abbey Sue Ehrler, 20, returned home to God on Monday, September 12, 2022. The visitation will be held Monday, September 19, 2022, from 1 – 6 pm, at Ehrler Ranch Special Event Barn, 11866 Chetlain Lane, Galena, IL. Services will follow the visitation at 6 pm, with Reverend Howard Barch officiating. Dinner will follow the services. The committal service will be held Tuesday, September 20, 2022, at 9:30 am, at the Wienen Mausoleum in Greenwood Cemetery in Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with the services.

Abbey lived her life expressing love and kindness to all she knew. She was born on August 17, 2002, in Dubuque, IA, and was raised in Galena. She attended Galena High School, where she was vice-president of her class her freshman year, and president her sophomore year. She transferred to Wahlert High School in Dubuque, IA, where she was on the honors society and where she won many awards for academic achievement and for her artwork. She graduated from Wahlert High School with the class of 2021. She attended Edgewood College in Madison, where she studied Business Administration and Accounting. Abbey was an old soul that was far ahead of her time. She was intelligent, strong, and driven, and even at her young age, she had established a career path that most adults would aspire to. She was a born entrepreneur and operated her own businesses, Abbey’s Sweetcorn and Market. She was the event planner at the Ehrler Ranch Special Event Barn, and she was a crucial part of Ehrler Ranch’s farming business. She was also the main coach person for the Galena Carriage Company. Her talents were too many to list. Above all, she holds the time record for riding Twister, their mechanical bull. Abbey loved her dogs, Mia and Tia, who went everywhere with her, and she loved all animals. She raised many farm animals, including horses, dogs, cats, sheep, and fainting goats. She was a member of the Thunder Riders 4H, the Mississippi Valley Riding Association, The Quad Cities All-Breed Horse Association, and the Midwest Horse Association. Abbey had a heart of gold and would do anything for anyone. She always put others before herself. She cherished her family more than anything, and she being an aunt to her nieces and nephews. Her fun-loving spirit, beautiful smile, and bubbly personality are just a few of the qualities that warmed the hearts of everyone she met.

Surviving are her parents, Steve and Pam (Wienen) Ehrler, her sister, Cassie (Will) George, her brother, Austin (Samantha) Wills; her grandparents, Charles and Susan Ehrler; her aunts and uncles, Michael (Jane) Wienen; Carolyn (Brian) Ramsey; Michael (Sherry) Erhler; Barb (Ben) Lancette; her nieces and nephews, Blazi and Hoyt George; Kera, Lincoln and Hudson Wills, and also many great aunts, uncles, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Jim and Lois Wienen; her great-grandparents, Joe and Rita Kaiser; Harold and Mary (Oldenburg) Wienen; Merlin and Eunice (Monahan) Ehrler; Ted and Dawn (Bealle) Stadel; her great-uncle Tom Wienen, and her cousin, Jenny Stoffregen.

LOVE IS FOREVER, and as Abbey would say…I LOVE YOU!

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

The Abbey Ehrler Memorial Fund has been set up at First Community Bank of Galena, for any gifts or donations. All donations will be used for families in need in the area.

Patrick A. Hyde

Patrick Allen Hyde, 57, of Galena, IL passed away unexpectedly on September 12, 2022. Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 24, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena at 1 PM with visitation beginning at 10 AM prior to the services.

He was born on December 14, 1964, in Metairie, LA, to Dr. Paul Martin Hyde and Mary Jane (Oldenburg) Hyde. After graduating from Jesuit High School in New Orleans, Patrick continued his studies at Louisiana State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting. Patrick spent his school breaks in Galena working at his aunt and uncle’s campground, where he met his wife, Mary Beth. They were united in marriage on May 21, 1988 and settled down in Galena where they raised their three children: Nicholas, Alexander, and Stephanie. Patrick served most of his over 30-year career as an auditor and CPA with the Illinois Department of Insurance. Most recently, he was the Chief Financial Examiner for the Office of the Special Deputy. He had served on the board of directors and career development committee for the National Society of Financial Examiners (SOFE). Additionally, he was elected SOFE president from 2002-2003. Patrick also represented the Illinois Department of Insurance on several committees at the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, most notably the Financial Analysis and Statutory Accounting Principles working groups. Patrick was dedicated to supporting his family and his community. He volunteered with the Galena High School speech team, sold tootsie rolls as a member of the Knights of Columbus, and knocked on doors for all local Democratic candidates. Above all else, Patrick was a devoted supporter of scouting: ending his decades of service as the Committee Chairman of Galena Boy Scout Troop 95.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Beth, sons Nick (Kelsey) Hyde and Alex Hyde, daughter Stephanie Hyde, and sister Amy Hyde of Baton Rouge, LA. In addition to his parents, Patrick was preceded in death by his sister, Laurie Hyde-Tull. He was a selfless lover of his family and friends. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by those that loved him.

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

Verla Handel

Wilma M. Kruser

Wilma Marie Kruser, 67, of Dubuque, passed away at home on September 10th, 2022, with her loving family by her side.

A Celebration of Wilma’s life will be held at a later date at Eagle Point Park. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Wilma was born on August 23rd, 1955, to Theodore and Barbara (Emmer) Cornwell. She married Charles Kruser Jr. on June 1st, 2013, in Oelwein, Iowa.

Wilma enjoyed spending her time crafting, crocheting, baking, and her trips to the nail salon. She loved being with family for the holidays and especially being with her grandchildren, who all had a special place in her heart.

She is survived by her Husband Chuck, Children, John (Jessica) Sullivan, William (Heather) Sullivan, Mindy (Tony) Moll, Charles Kruser III, Nicholas Mattingly, Jimmy (Sarah) Mattingly, and Megan Bennit, her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Her siblings, Rodney (Chris) Cornwell, John (Bonnie) Cornwell, Mick (Shar) Cornwell, Hope Cornwell, Ted Cornwell, Barbara Cornwell, Pennyann (Robert) Gamel, Randy (Jean) Cornwell, Sister-in-law, Shirley Boland, brothers-in-law Raymond and Terrence Kruser.

Wilma was preceded in death by her parents Theodore and Barbara, her parents-in-law Charles and Elaine, and her sister-in-law Darlene Thomas.

Thank you to UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital, UnityPoint – Wendt Regional Cancer Center, and Dr. Hermann and his staff for all the care and comfort they have provided Wilma throughout her life. Your care for Wilma will always be remembered.

Gerald F. Brenke

Gerald “Jerry” F. Brenke, 73, of Dubuque, died Monday, September 12, 2022, at home surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Friday, September 16, at the Church of the Resurrection with Fr. Phil Gibbs officiating. A visitation will be held from 9-10:45 a.m., Friday at the church. Military Honors will be conducted by the American Legion, Post 6, of Dubuque immediately following services at the church. Burial will be held at a later date. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Jerry was born on August 31, 1949, in Dubuque, the son of Edward and Catherine (Schroeder) Brenke. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.

On November 6, 1971, he married Linda Heiderscheit in Holy Cross, Iowa. He worked as an assembler at John Deere, retiring in 2002.

Jerry served with the 1-506 Infantry 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. Upon returning from the war, he enjoyed his yearly reunions with his fellow Vietnam Veterans. This past year Jerry and his son, Chris were able to experience the Honor Flight together.

A few of his favorite activities included spending time with his children and grandchildren, family get togethers, spending time on the farm, meeting his friends for morning coffee and morel hunting. He loved spending time in Arizona with his daughter, Caroline.

He was a longtime member of Resurrection Church.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Chris (Carolyn) Brenke, of Holy Cross, Iowa; daughter, Caroline Brenke, of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Magen “Maggie” and Edward Brenke; sisters, Barbara Schiers, and Darlene (Rick) Schaaf; brothers and sisters-in-law, Patricia Heiderscheit, Ed (Myrene) Heiderscheit, Donna Heiderscheit, Roger (Judie) Heiderscheit, Laura “Frosty” Brokish and Ron (Elaine) Heiderscheit; many nieces and nephews; and his special furry friend, Kiki.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dennis; and brothers and sisters-in-law, Lyle Heiderscheit, Duane Heiderscheit, Daniel and Helen Heiderscheit.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Dubuque Humane Society, Tri- State Veterans or Hospice of Dubuque.

Special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Chris, for their compassionate care and to all the doctors and nurses who helped Jerry over the years with his treatments.

Dorothy Chesney

Dorothy Chesney, 97, of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away on September 11th, 2022, at Bethany Home in Dubuque, Iowa just days after her birthday.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday September 15th, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with Pastor Neil Harrison officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque. Family and friends may visit on Wednesday September 14th, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home.

Dorothy was born on September 7th, 1925, in Oxford Junction, Iowa, daughter of Manfred and Viola (Burda) Powelka. She grew up on her family’s farm in Oxford Junction. After graduating from Maquoketa High School, she worked at Jackson State Savings Bank, also in Maquoketa, until she married John Chesney on August 6th, 1947, at the University of Dubuque chapel. He preceded her in death on June 29th, 2020, but it was an unending love.

Dorothy worked to make a loving home and partnered with her husband in the farm and egg business. She made many friends for life while being a cook at the Zwingle school. Dorothy was known for her great cooking and baking (especially her kolaches) and was devoted to her family. Small town life suited her, so there was plenty of room for her love of gardening and plenty of opportunities to enjoy a ride.

She is survived by her children Linda (Duane) Eaton and David (Randa) Chesney, both of Dubuque, grandchildren Heather (Brian) Pagano of San Jose, CA, Brooke (husband Brian Kerr) Chesney of O’Fallon, IL, Garrett (fiancée Korreena Kamps) Eaton of Sun Prairie, WI, and Shelby (husband David Haldane) Eaton of Bettendorf, IA.

She was preceded in death by her husband John, and parents Manfred and Viola, sister Anita Meade, brother Leroy Powelka, and niece Leanne.

Many thanks to UnityPoint Health Care for their many years caring for Dorothy. Also, a heartfelt thanks to Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding professional and compassionate care.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque and First Lutheran Church, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Joanne Steger

Joanne “Annie” Steger, 82, of Balltown, died Sunday, September 11, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, September 15, 2022, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Joanne will be 10:30 am Friday, September 16, 2022, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church with Father Tyler Raymond as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery – Balltown.

Joanne was born July 18, 1940, in Turkey River, IA, the daughter of Joseph Bernard and Mildred Gassman Sahm. On September 5, 1959, she married Cletus Steger at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He died January 19, 2020.

Joanne farmed with her husband.  She also worked at the Avalon Supper Club, Breitbach’s Country Dining, and Stonecliff Winery. She volunteered her services at St. Francis of Assisi parish and Hospice of Dubuque. She also enjoyed taking her grandchildren shopping and out for lunch for their birthdays, hosting themed family Christmases, watching Balltown baseball, Nascar, the Cubs, vacationing with Clete and special friends Donnie and Mary Brimeyer, snowmobiling, convertible rides, boating on the Mississippi, raking hay in the sun and grandmothering the Klinkhammer children.

Survivors include one son, Steve (Kathy) Steger of Balltown; three daughters, Laura (Dan) Clemen of  Peosta, IA, Julie (Dan) Slattery of Waunakee, WI, and Amy (Tony) Duehr of Balltown; ten grandchildren,  Kelsey (Chad) Hill, Gina (Will) Osmanski, Nicole (Nick Rohlfes) Clemen, Maria (Daniel Paulson) Steger, Kyle Steger, Zachary (Hannah Quinones) Steger, Samantha (Matt) Cooper, Ellen Slattery, Olivia Duehr, and Jack Duehr; two great-granddaughters, Haylee and Harper Hill; two brothers, Jerry (Bonnie) Sahm of Balltown, and Eugene “Butch” Sahm of Dubuque; in-laws, Billy (Donna) Steger and Jerry (Connie) Steger, Mary Ann (Allen) Lex of Dubuque and Lillian Sahm, all of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother, Jack Sahm.

In lieu of flowers, benches, or stones, memorials may be left for Hospice of Dubuque and Camp Albrecht Acres.

The family would like to offer a special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Brittney, Steph, Peggy and all of the hospice staff, all of the caregivers and staff at Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center.

Joanne was a humble and open-hearted person. She taught us all to be compassionate and kind – please pay it forward.

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

Jason A. Munson

Jason A. Munson, age 49, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on Sept. 3, 2022, at the Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, IA.  To honor Jason’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jason’s family.

Jason was born on August 13, 1973, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Debbie Roth and Jim Munson.  He spent his working years as a deck hand on the barges but soon became disabled.

In his free-time, Jason enjoyed sports especially football which he played in his High School days, being offered two scholarships from two major colleges. Jason followed the Green Bay Packers and enjoyed watching them. We will miss Jason more than he could know and thankfully find peace in knowing and trusting that he is now safe in the loving and grace-filled hands of his Lord and Savior…. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jason’s include,

his father,
Jim (Jane) Munson, Dickeyville, WI;

his mother,
Debra Roth-Jasper;

his ex-wife,
Sara Kammerude;

his children,
Andera (Anthony) Hohmann,
Ashley (Dave) Freiburger,
and Gretchen Munson;

his grandsons,
Daniel and Tucker;
his step-brothers and sisters,
Clint, Cody, Katie, and Emily;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jason was preceded in death by his brother, Justin James Munson.

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

Donald A. Goepfert

Donald A. Goepfert, 80, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at Luther Manor Care Center.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Thursday, September 15, 2022 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends from 9:30 am until service time also on Thursday, September 15, 2022 at the church prior to services.  Burial will be at St. John Lutheran Cemetery at a later date.

Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Don was born December 26, 1941, the son of Arthur and Mabel (Brown) Goepfert.  He married Karen Marie Medinger on July 10, 1965.  Don farmed south of Bellevue on the family farm, co-owned Sportslands and retired from John Deere after 30 years.  He and Karen enjoyed their winters in Texas in their 5^th wheel camper and campground hosting in Iowa during the summers for many years.  Don was an avid outdoorsman, he loved to hunt, fish, camp, and summer hosting at Spruce Creek Campground.  He enjoyed bicycling, wood working, his scroll saw, carving, and building anything you gave him an idea to complete.  Don was a constant jokester and enjoyed spending time with his family and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Karen; their children, Jerry Goepfert, Tim (Deb) Goepfert both of Wichita, KS, and his favorite daughter, Missy (Mike) Steines of St. Donatus; grandchildren, Amber Goepfert, Danielle Goepfert, TJ (Amy) Goepfert, , Cole Schmidt, Courtney Schmidt, Shawn Haney, Lene Haney, Morgan (Zach) Wilming, and Drew Steines; 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Lois Streets; in-laws, Gloria Medinger, Lorin “Snooks” Medinger, and Shirley (Leonard) Schmidt; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Nicole Goepfert; a sister, Arlene (Earl) Reeves; brothers in-law, Earl Reeves, John Streets and Bob Medinger; and a sister in-law, Nancy Medinger.

A memorial fund has been established in Don’s memory.

Online condolences maybe expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Linda Ford-Johnson

Linda Ford-Johnson, 64, passed away on September 6, 2022, at home surrounded by family.  To honor her wishes, services will not be held at this time.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Linda was born May 14, 1958, the daughter of Edward Ford, Sr. and Pauline (Schmitt) Ford.  She grew up in the Quad City area, graduating from Rock Island High School in 1976.  She married Mike Hansen on April 15, 1977.  They later divorced.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Mike Johnson, on July 26, 1986.  He preceded her in death on June 16, 2019.

Linda enjoyed cooking (best ham gravy ever), bowling with her dear friend Irene, traveling with her husband, dancing and spending time with her kids and grandkids.  She was the queen of the 20 minute afternoon nap (I’m just resting my eyes, she would say).  She enjoyed cooking big meals and having all over to the house to share in it.  When asked whether she was going to eat, she would usually reply “I’ve been snacking all day”!

When her and Mike opened Chances R bar in 2007 in Dubuque, she hit the ground running to make a successful go of business ownership.  She was regularly seen behind the bar serving up drinks and good times to everyone until her and Mike’s retirement to Florida in 2011.  Settling in Lakeland, they continued to make friends and enjoy good times, especially at AM Vets Post 35.

Those left to cherish her memory include a son, Donavon Hansen, a daughter, Heather (John) Krow, all of Dubuque, IA, a stepdaughter, Pam (Tony) Grover, of Wellman, IA, a stepson, Brett Johnson, of Mount Pleasant, IA.  One sister, Debra Ford, of Wheatland, IA, one brother, Edward Ford, Jr (Diane), of Milan, IL. Grandchildren ,Zachary Sedrel,  Josh (Kayla) Krow, Janae (Connor) Schmitt, Jared Krow, Jack Krow; great-grandchildren, Emmy Sedrel and Robyn Krow.  Nieces Tegan Jaeger and Diedra Hughes.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband, Mike Johnson.

The family would like to thank Dr. Angela Hubanks for her medical care and humor.  In addition, the family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Nurse Courtney and all others who provided loving, gentle care to Mom throughout her journey.

Jean E. Heer

Jean E. Heer, age 88, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:12 a.m., on Friday, September 9, 2022, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Jean’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 5:45 p.m., on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon David Roth officiating.

Jean was born on November 20, 1933, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Taft and Mary (McCarthy) Miller.

Jean was a life long resident of Dubuque.  As a young woman, she was employed as a telephone operator and at State Brand Creamery where she met the love of her life.  She was married to Russell Heer on July 12, 1958, at St. Mary’s Church.  They celebrated 62 years of marriage and had 2 wonderful children together.  Sadly, Russ would pass away on December 5, 2020.  After they married, Jean was a full time wife and mom who also helped people cleaning their homes around town.  She had a way with people and some of her closest friends started out as her cleaning clients.  Jean truly loved spending time with her family and was always the life of the party.  She loved playing cards and games and made everyone smile when she danced and sang along to her favorite songs.  Jean was never afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve so her family always new exactly how she was feeling.  She was a jokester and loved to engage in playful teasing, even teasing the nurses at the hospital.  Jean was a big personality packaged in a small frame, and had a way of making everyone around her feel comfortable and appreciated.  Jean definitely made the world around her a happier place, and she will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Jean’s memory include

her children,
Laurie (Ron) Rudiger, Dubuque, IA
and Russell S. “Russ” (Michelle) Heer, Epworth, IA;

4 grandchildren,
Natalie (Aaron) Bermudez, San Antonio, TX,
Kamber (fiancé Austin Brady) Rudiger, East Dubuque, IL,
Brianna Heer, Epworth, IA
and Emma Heer, Epworth, IA;

4 great-grandchildren,
Grayson and Carson Bermudez and Laura and Laney Brady;

and her sisters-in-law,
Debra Miller, Dubuque, IA
and Betty Miller, Dubuque, IA.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Russell Heer; and her siblings, Joe Miller, Denny Miller, Ronnie Miller.

Jean’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, especially the ICU, for the wonderful care they provided for Jean.

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

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

Sr. Aimee Marie Spahn, OSF

Sister Aimee Marie (Amy Margaret) Spahn, OSF of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa died Thursday, September 8, 2022  at Clare House. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 14, 2022. Masks will be required. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born December 24, 1919 in Chicago, IL, daughter of, Carl and Amy (Eberhardt) Spahn.

She Entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1938 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1944. Sister received her bachelor’s degree in music education at Briar Cliff College, Sioux City, IA. She ministered in Iowa at Dyersville, Remsen, Larchwood, North Washington, Sioux City, and Holy Cross. She later ministered at Mount St. Francis Center in clerical services and prison correspondence.

Sister is survived by her nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Elaine Spahn; her brothers, Jerry (Irene) Spahn and Robert (Nancy) Spahn.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Pauline Smith

Pauline Smith, age 81, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:12 a.m., on Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Luther Manor.  To celebrate Pauline’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, September 12, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Following cremation there will be a visitation at the Immaculate Conception Church Hall on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Marvin J. Bries officiating.  Inurnment will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista, Iowa.  Pauline loved her “Big English Hats”, and the family would be honored for you to wear yours to Pauline’s services.

Pauline was born on July 29, 1941, in Swindon, England, daughter of Frank and Gladys (Tarrant) Tombs.

Pauline grew up in England with her family where she attended school.  She met her future husband, Stanley Smith, while he was stationed overseas with the US Air Force.  They were united in marriage on June 10, 1961, at Holy Road Church in Swindon, England.  They returned to the United States where they raised 5 children and celebrated 37 years of marriage before Stanley passed away on August 21, 1998.  She was quite proud of passing her nationalization test and taking her oath in the 1970’s to become an official US citizen.  Pauline and Stanley settled in North Buena Vista where she did housekeeping in private homes and worked at the Avalon Supper Club making their famous hash browns and bread pudding.  Pauline was always very active with her community and with the Immaculate Conception Church and Rosary Society.  She enjoyed gardening, knitting, puzzles, working on family projects and spending time with her family and friends, especially her grandchildren.  Pauline truly embraced her English heritage and took great pride in keeping her impressive English Rose Garden and having high tea.  She also enjoyed traveling and taking trips to local casinos with her friend Lou Ann.  Pauline was a wonderful person who always took care of everyone around her.  She will be greatly missed by all of her family and friends.

Those left to cherish Pauline’s memory include

her children,
Terry Smith, Dubuque, IA,
Ted (Angela) Smith, Arlington, IA,
Tina (Sam) Cruz, Pennsburg, PA
and Travis (Kristin aka Kristian to Pauline) Smith, Dubuque, IA;

5 grandchildren,
Skyler Mobley, Dominic Smith, Tyler Smith, Lucas Smith and Joseph Smith;

her siblings,
Laine (Eddie) Thelwall,
Michael (Helen) Tombs,
Maggie Tombs,
Valerie (Bill) Passmore, all of England;

and a brother-in-law,
Paul Rogers, in England.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Stanley Smith; a son, Todd Smith; and her siblings, Beryl Tombs, Veronica Rogers, Jean (JD) Lambert and Norman Tombs.

Pauline’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque and UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital for their wonderful care of Pauline.  We also want to thank all of our family and friends for their outpouring of love and support.

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

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

Mary Ann Zugenbuehler

Mary Ann Zugenbuehler, 90, of Dubuque, died Friday, September 9, 2022, at her home when a very special angel took her by the hand to meet her Lord.

Visitation will be from 10:30 am until 12:30 pm Monday, September 12, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be 1:00 pm Monday, September 12, 2022, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born July 15, 1932, in West Allis, WI, the daughter of Adam and Margaret (Portzen) Witterholt. On February 4, 1956, she married George J. “Zuke” Zugenbuehler at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died June 29, 2009.

She attended Sacred Heart Grade School and graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in 1950.

In 1995, she retired from Friedman Insurance Company where she was a secretary for many years.

She was a member of Church of the Resurrection and the church’s prayer chain. She was a charter member of the Insurance Women of Dubuque. She was also a member of the Immaculate Conception Alumnae Association and the Women of the Moose. In her younger years, she actively participated in softball, volleyball, tennis, and later, bowling for many years. She enjoyed her monthly get-togethers with her former I.C. “girl’s” and the annual I.C. Alumnae reunions. She valued the mall friends she made after many years of walking and also her friends at the Woodlands who became like family.Her Catholic faith meant so much to her. If anyone needed prayers, she was the “go to” person, always having her rosary at her side. She truly loved angels & cardinals and felt a hug never hurt anyone. Family meant everything to her and she cared deeply for each and everyone. She was so proud of her grandson Austin.

Survivors include one daughter, Lori (Ken) Massey of Dubuque; one grandson, Austin Massey of Dubuque; one brother, Tom (Judy) Witterholt of Dubuque; one sister, Ruth (John) Hauber of Kieler, WI; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one sister, Rita (Bob) Sodawasser.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Mary’s family thanks Dr. Chris Stille and his nurse, Amanda, Drs. Eltibi and Loc, and the staff at Mercy Hospital for their care.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.