Obituaries Archive

Christine J. Dowell

Christine Joy Dowell, 59, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2022, at home, surrounded by her family after fighting liver disease for 2 ½ years.

Memorial services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, September 10, 2022, at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, where a visitation will be held from 11:30 until the time of services. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Christine was born on July 12, 1963, in Akron, Ohio, to Patricia and Ralph Wise. She was raised in Copley, Ohio and graduated from Copley High School.

Christine worked various jobs, with her most recent as payroll manager at Foodliner Trucking. She was forced to retire due to her disability.

She met Mark Dowell, and they were married on September 5, 2003. She loved to travel, especially to South Padre Island, where she enjoyed sitting on the beach. Mark and Christine also made many trips to Las Vegas to visit her daughter and explore the various sites. She had many pets which she loved, with her little Shih Tzu, Maggie being her most beloved. She was heartbroken the day Maggie died. Christine and Mark had great plans to travel around the country to discover new places but were unable due to her illness.

Christine is survived by her husband, Mark Dowell; daughters, Michelle Harris (Melissa), of Henderson, Nevada, and Johnna Foutty (Colt) of Jesup, Iowa; stepchildren, Stephany Dean (Ken), Zachary Dowell (Sara), and Thomas Dowell (Stephanie), all of Dubuque; 8 grandchildren, Dylan, Brandyn, Izzy, Nathan, Bentley, Zoey, Carter and Landen; brother, Ralph; a niece, Marci; nephew, Greg; brother-in-law, Lewis (Bonnie) Dowell, Darla (Tim) Chappell, and Michael (Fran) Dowell.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph Wise and Patricia Ramsay; sister, Martha, who died at birth; and sisters, Dolly Wise and Terryl Baker.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Special thank you to the wonderful nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Charlotte E. DeClue Happ

Charlotte Elaine DeClue Happ entered the comfort of the Lord peacefully Friday, September 2 at home in Asbury, Iowa, following a long and brave fight with cancer and other illnesses. She died as she always preferred to live – surrounded by loving family.

She had three devoted children from a first marriage, and gained two more when she married Robert Earl Happ, “her Bob,” on October 10, 1986. Charlotte shared often that she had always wanted five children, and that’s what God had given her.

Charlotte was born on December 3, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Louis Earl and Frances Enid (Leeborg) DeClue. Her family affectionately called her “Charlaine” in childhood. The family moved to East Gary (now Lake Station), Indiana in 1951, to Sacramento, California in 1961, and back to Chicago in 1962, where she graduated from Lake View High School in 1964. She later lived in Aurora, Illinois, before moving to East Dubuque, Illinois, and later Dubuque, Iowa. She then lived for more than 30 years in Peosta, Iowa, before relocating to Asbury for her final years. Charlotte was a dedicated school and scouts volunteer when her children were young, and later worked for many years as a legal secretary and office administrator.

The aspects of life Charlotte treasured most were the same that she herself poured into the world in abundance – faith, family, and friendship. Her Christian faith was absolute and immovable. She spent time in prayer daily and left behind a well-worn bible with thousands of handwritten notes in the margins. She thanked God continually for every blessing she enjoyed, and it was her deep faith in the redemptive power of Christ’s love that sustained and strengthened her in her most difficult times. When anyone in her wide circle of loved ones faced adversity, Charlotte always reached out to tell them she was praying for them and prayed with them right then if she could. She truly centered herself around her faith, and by so doing was able to spread God’s love to others wherever she went.

Charlotte cherished her large and ever-growing family and could never have enough family time to satisfy her. Her laugh was loud and full and a little bit silly and could often be heard over the noise and conversation of family gatherings. When friends of hers met family members for the first time, they already felt deeply acquainted from hearing Charlotte’s stories. Charlotte loved to brag about the qualities and achievements of her children and grandchildren. And when others would jokingly imply that her assessments were biased, she would happily reply, “Well, facts are facts.”

Charlotte’s ability to make and keep friends was legendary. She never met a stranger, only friends she had not yet had a chance to know. Her curiosity about others knew no bounds. A visitor to her home would receive the warmest and most sincere of hugs upon leaving. And a brief, random conversation on a far-away vacation could result in a lifelong pen pal. When Charlotte welcomed a new person into her life, which was often, she did so with her full measure of love and affection. And for those who were blessed to be in her circle for decades, her devoted friendship was a constant source of joy and comfort.

Creative inspirations were everywhere for Charlotte, and she delighted in her many hobbies and interests. An expert sewer and quilter who was always working on several projects, her intricate quilts and other creations decorated homes across the country. She made clothing. She painted landscapes and wrote short stories. She sang and played piano. And she loved collecting beautiful objects to decorate her home. She had a lifelong affection for western and Native-American art and loved the color of turquoise. She adored bluegrass music, and when she had the chance to meet her musical hero Bill Monroe, successfully persuaded him to sing “Blue Moon of Kentucky” with her on the spot.

Surviving are her husband, Robert Happ of Asbury, IA; children Marcya (Grant) Grudzina of Asbury, IA, Kimberly (Tom) Kublie of Shertz, TX, John (Kym) Lang of Crestview, FL, Michael (Leah) Happ of Evanston, IL, and James (Summer) Lang of North Liberty, IA; grandchildren Joshua (Liz) Kublie, AJ Kublie, Madyson Lang (Joshua Kennedy), Duncan Grudzina, Sophia Grudzina, Juliana Grudzina, Brynn Grudzina, Devin Anderson, Peyton Anderson, and Rose Happ; great-grandchildren Hunter Kublie, Amelia Kublie, Owen Kublie, and Paisley Wells; aunt June Eck of Maricopa, AZ: and sister Donna Galvan of Sacramento, CA.

Charlotte’s final words, spoken clearly long after she had been able to say any others, were “I love my family.”

A celebration of life will be held Thursday, September 8 at 1:00 pm at First Baptist Church, 2143 Judson Dr, Dubuque, Iowa, followed by an open house reception starting at 3:00 pm in the Luther Manor Communities Clubhouse at 5284 Grand Meadows Drive, Asbury, Iowa. Attendees are invited to wear a splash of aqua or teal, Charlotte’s favorite colors.  Charlotte will be interred at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery with a private family service.

Flower arrangements and mementos are welcome. In addition, donations in Charlotte’s honor may be made to the Charlotte Happ Memorial at the following organizations close to her heart:

Quilts of Valor, c/o Cindy Billmeyer
18836 Breezy Ridge Rd.
Dubuque, IA 52002

First Baptist Church of Dubuque
2123 Judson Dr.
Dubuque, IA 52001

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

Live-streaming of Charlotte’s service will be available through the on-line obituary at www.hskfhcares.com

Gloria E. Kaufman

Gloria E. Kaufman, 94, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 5, 2022, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, September 12, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at 2:30 P.M., Monday, at Clinton Lawn Cemetery, Clinton, Iowa.

Gloria Elaine Cornish was born on April 20, 1928 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Sidney and Erma (Kroigaard) Cornish.  She grew up in Clinton County and graduated from Welton High School in 1946.  She married Laverne Kaufman on June 4, 1947 in rural Grand Mound, Iowa.  Three children were born from this union, Terry, Linda, and Cindy.  Laverne preceded her in death on April 9, 1998, and on July 23, 2005 she married Clifford Daniels in Nashua, Iowa.  Clifford died on November 30, 2007.

Gloria had worked for the Maquoketa Community Schools in the Kitchen Department as well as in the Housekeeping Department, cleaning buses and the administration building.

Gloria loved Bingo, enjoyed playing cards and was involved in card clubs.  She also enjoyed going south in the winter with Laverne and later Clifford.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Terry (Janna) Kaufman of Maquoketa, IA, Linda (Dan) Gilmore of Maquoketa, IA, and Cindy (Jeremy) Hythecker of Eldridge, IA; 5 grandchildren, Michelle (Mike) Azevedo, Kurt (Lana) Kaufman, Katie (Blake) Pauls, Kristin (Al) Klimesh, and Dillon Daniels; and 7 great-grandchildren, Alex, Chase, Cooper, Grace, Abbie, Sylvia, and Clark.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Laverne and her husband Clifford, and a sister JoAnn (Owen) Hute.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Gloria E. Kaufman memorial fund has been established.

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

Monty P. White

Monty Peter “Mont” White, 71, of Strawberry Point, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, September 1, 2022, at his home. He was born on January 30, 1951, in Worthington, the son of Pete and Bernadette (McNally) White. Monty was raised and educated in the Dyersville area, graduating in 1969.  Monty served in the United States Army from 1971 to 1974 until he was honorably discharged.

Monty was united in marriage to Rosemary Kirby. Three children were born to this union. The couple later divorced. Monty retired from John Deere after 30 years. He enjoyed farming, reading, traveling, his family and Milwaukee’s Best.

Survivors include his three children, Lisa (Scott) Stevens of North Liberty, Amanda (Cody) Leigh of Tiffin, and Doug (Angie) White of Dubuque; six grandchildren; his three brothers, Mike (Gina) White, Terry (Joyce) White and K.C. White; his three sisters, Phyllis Spahn, Dixie (Duey) Kerper and Judy (John) Jurgiel; and his significant other, Joyce Peters.

Monty was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Pete (Mary T.) White and his brother-in-law, Jared Spahn.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com

Celebration of Life: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, September 8, 2022, at Rod and Cal’s in Strawberry Point, Iowa.

Private Family Services: St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington, Iowa

Kathaleen M. Seippel

On Friday, September 2nd, 2022, Kathaleen Marie Seippel (mama-san), loving and stubborn mother, grandmother, and friend, has decided to give us the finger and move on to bigger and better things at the ripe old age of 54.

A Celebration of Cathie’s life will be held on Saturday, September 17th, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Walnut Pavillion, at Swiss Valley park. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Born October 9th, 1967, to Peter J. Seippel and Patricia A. Kammerude in Fort Rucker, Alabama, she was as fiery as the red hair on her head with a laugh you could hear across the room. She received her Paralegal degree from NICC in 2004 and was proud that she graduated the same year as her daughter graduated high school. Her kids were her everything. Even when she wanted to poke them in the eye.

Cathie lived for her family and friends. She was regularly seen behind the bar of a favorite local watering-hole, serving up tasty cocktails and mixers. She was a Jack of all Trades having worked in the Food and Beverage industry most of her life, but also learned a great deal of lessons in life along the way to earning her degree and successfully raising her three children Samantha, Nick, and Brandon.

Cathie was an avid animal lover, especially her most two recent boys, Murphy and Wheezy. You’d be hard pressed to find any other dog as spoiled and loved as those two. She also loved attending concerts and music festivals with her children and their friends, being the “cool mom” of the group. She had more kids than she knew what to do with – not all biologically of course, but she loved them all as if they were her own and would do anything to help or protect them.  Everyone knew mom threatened to poke every single one of them in the eye if they stepped out of line or she would promise to show up to the next school function / event in the most embarrassing outfit imaginable – and should would have too!

Cathie was preceded in death by her mother, Patricia Kammerude, and her son Brandon Fischer.

She is survived by her children, Samantha Seippel (her favorite) and Nicholas Fischer (Ariel Fischer, Kaylie, Melanie, Lacie Drake), father, Peter J. Seippel (Cathy), her siblings Steve, John, and Christine, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many, many wonderful friends and family members.

A very special thank you to Jen (the first surrogate daughter), mom’s best friends Michelle & Jack, Betsy, Mary, Mike, and Robyn: you made mom’s last few weeks on this earth some of the best she could ever remember and we are eternally grateful for your kindness, generosity and love. There is a special place for people like you.

Cheers to you, Mama-san, and here is to your next great adventure. Give Brandon, Grandma, Jilly, Debbie, and Paul some hell from all of us down here.

In lieu of flowers, a Kathaleen Seippel memorial fund has been created at Dupaco Community Credit Union.  However, if you’re a flower sending kind of person, Leonard Funeral Home on Rockdale Road is where you can send them: Cathie’s favorites were always white and yellow daisies.

Deborah J. Ostrander

Deborah J. “Deb” Ostrander, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on August 26, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Deb’s life, an open-house will be held on Saturday, September 10, 2022, from 1-3 p.m. at Stonehill, 3^rd Floor Household, 3485 Windsor Ave in Dubuque.  A committal service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, September 10, 2022.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Deb’s family.

Deb was born on June 28, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Floyd E. and Marjorie (Callahan) Kamm.  Deb grew up with a zest for life, along with an innate desire to beautiful the world around her at every turn, especially where the holidays were considered.  In her working years she was a bank teller and enjoyed visiting with the customers as the workday progressed.  Unfortunately, in the spring of 2000 at the age of 47, Deb was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, the effects of which left her almost completely paralyzed except for the limited use of her non-dominant hand.  Over the remaining 22 years she was with us, all while enduring multiple cancer and other health-related issues, Deb’s quiet strength and consistent positivity served as a truly positive inspiration to the countless people whom she met along the way.  She was the living embodiment of a gentle reminder to be grateful for each day that we are gifted with here on earth and to accept every challenge we face with the grace and determination necessary to enjoy life to its fullest.  It’s impossible to accurately calculate the amount of good that worked its way into the world around her through Deb’s courageous battles, but we know that each live she touched is all the better simply for crossing her path.  Thank you, Deb, for never surrendering and always allowing your light to shine so brightly, and may you now find the peace you surely deserve as we wait to see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Deb include,

her children,
Anthony “AJ” Strong, San Francisco, CA,
and Nicholas Strong, Keller, TX;

her grandson,
Nicholas Kevin Strong, Keller, TX;

her brother,
Charles “Chuck” (Elizabeth) Kamm, Texarkana, TX;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Deb was preceded in death by her parents, and her sister, Kathleen (David) Dyer.

Deb’s family would like to express their most sincere gratitude to everyone at the Stonehill Communities for their outstanding level of care they provided her over the last 10 years.  She was truly fortunate to call it her home.  The consistently excellent work by Stonehill’s staff, many of whom became a second family to Deb over the years, enabled her to live a life of dignity, comfort, joy, and purpose through her vary last moments with us.  May you all be blessed beyond measure for each and every kindness you so generously shared with Deb!

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

Pat R. Temperley

Pat R. Temperley, 89, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Saturday, September 3, 2022, at home surrounded by her family.

Private family visitation and funeral services will be Wednesday, September 6, 2022, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Pat was born on June 19, 1933, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Azra “Ray” and Myrtle (Richman) Bisdorf.

She was united in marriage to Gerald D. “Pud” Temperley on March 1, 1952, at the Wesley United Methodist Church in East Dubuque.  He preceded her in death on October 1, 2017.

Pat was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church. She enjoyed sewing, quilting, canning, baking and her Seek and Find puzzles.

Surviving are three children, Gary (Dalene “Toots”) Temperley of East Dubuque, Sandy (Loras) Koos of LaMotte, IA, and Tina (Rick) Chapman of Cave Creek, AZ; six grandchildren and four great-grandsons and a great-granddaughter; a sister, Bonnie; and two sisters-in-law, Velda Temperley of East Dubuque, and Sheila (Roger) Crapp of Longmont, CO, plus numerous nieces, and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Myrtle, her husband Gerald “Pud”, one brother and several sisters.

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

Mary F. Gordon

Mary F. Gordon, age 73, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on Sept. 2, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loved ones.  To honor Mary’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on May 27, 1949, in Charleston, IL, a daughter to Silas Hillis and Mattie (Harold) Morris.  Mary’s bright light and smile will always shine in the hearts of her family and friends.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include,

the love of her life,
Mary Morton, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Angela Ernest,
and Marcus Gordon, both of Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Marc and Emily Gordon;

her brother,
Odie (Lana) Hillis, Decatur, IL;

her special friends,
Rita Hicks, Kay Smith, Donna Chadwick, Nancy McCarty, and Tiffany Marshall;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; and her sisters, Virgie Gates and Eva Stancil.

Mary’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelly, for all of their kindness and care of Mary.

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

Karen Gonner

Karen (Deppe) Gonner, 79, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, September 3, 2022 surrounded by her family.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Monday, September 5, 2022, at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Additional visitation will be 9 a.m. – 10 a.m., Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at the funeral home prior to Mass.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Services will be livestreamed on Facebook and YouTube: St. Joseph Bellevue-Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook pages.

Karen was born June 29, 1943, the daughter of Louis J. and Irene C. (Kielhold) Deppe.  She married David J. Gonner on November 9, 1963, he passed on October 21, 2003.  Karen was raised and helped on the family farm, sold Avon, provided home day care for many children, held various other jobs and cleaned homes for many years.  She enjoyed baking, playing cards, a good laugh, an avid Cubs fan, and cherished family gatherings.  Karen took great pride having everyone at her home for family dinners and always had room for an extra guest.  Family was Karen’s life, she treasured her time with all her family and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Sherri (Mark) Sieverding of Bellevue, Bruce Gonner of Manchester, Mary (Scott) Wegmann of Manchester, Chuck Gonner of Dubuque, and Dan (Teri) Gonner of Bellevue; grandchildren, Claira (Nathan) Kapraun, Karan (Jack) Mescher, Grace (Aaron) Adam, Ellen Sieverding, Lauren Sieverding, Sarah (Evan) Behnke, Nicole Gonner, Nathan Wegmann, Kristen (fiancé MacCoy Benzen) Wegmann, Leah Wegmann, Erin Wegmann, Louis Gonner, Allie Gonner, Dillon Gonner, and Jacob Gonner; great-grandchildren, Carmella and Margaret Kapraun, and Richard Mescher; siblings and in-laws, Dianne (Harvey, Jr.) Seiler, Gladys Wallace, Leanna Deppe; and a sister in-law, Betty Gonner.

Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Irene Deppe; her husband, David Gonner; father and mother in-law, George and Alverda Gonner; siblings and in-laws, Jim and Alvara Schmidt, Kenneth Deppe, Kermit Deppe, Gene and Diane Deppe, Jim and Kate Cloos, Tom and Norma Crouch, Lloyd and Judy Kolker, Milton Gonner, Merlin and Marcellene Gonner, and Mark and Glenna Kueter.

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

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

Betty M. Owens

Betty M. Owens 88, passed away Saturday, September 3, 2022, in Mountain Home, AR.  The funeral service will be held at Noon, Friday, September 9, 2022, at St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born May 14, 1934, at home in Guilford Township, rural Galena the daughter of Raymond and Irene (Glick) Wachter. Betty was united in marriage to Charles Ray Meyer in October 1958 and later married Richard W. Owens in November 1978. She worked and retired from the Eaton Corporation, Hanover, IL. Betty enjoyed traveling and spending winters in Texas with her husband. She loved the Lord and always put him first in her life.

Betty is survived by her children, Kathleen (John) Kutzke-Kyle, Ronald (Kandy) Meyer, and Tracy (Lori) Owens, grandchildren, Kevin (April) McPeek, Tonya (Jeff) Aiello, Travis McPeek, Kory (Jamie), Klay (Haley), Kyle, Kolin, Kody, Kadin, Keyan and Kayleen Kutzke, Trevor (Chelsea) and Zach Owens, and her many great-grandchildren, and a sister, Norma Montgomery and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and a daughter, Janet Kay Meyer.

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

Orville L. Brothers

Orville “Orv” L. Brothers, 74, of Kieler, WI, completed his earthly journey on Sept. 1, 2022, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Orv’s life, a visitation will be held from 3:00-8:00 p.m., on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center, 3685 County HHH in Kieler, WI, including a prayer service officiated by Rev. Bart Timmerman at 7:30 p.m. Orv’s burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, Sept. 10, 2022, at the Immaculate Conception Church Cemetery with Rev. Bernie Rott officiating, followed by full military honors being accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. The Jamestown Fire Department will also honor his 38 years of service. Following the ceremony, family and friends are invited to join us for lunch and “Orv*isms” at the Jamestown Park in Kieler.

Orville was born on August 13, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, to Freeman “Red” and Dorothy (Johll) Brothers. He was raised by his grandmother, Nettie Brothers. Following graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy to honorably serve his country. He was a Vietnam veteran. Upon returning home, he worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for many years. On July 10, 1971, he married his devoted wife, Jody (Burlage). As a couple, they enjoyed traveling, cooking, gardening, and playing the occasional game of euchre, along with many community service projects. The most notable community event they initiated was the Jamestown Park Fish Fry with help from the fire department and many community members. Throughout the years, over $70,000 was raised to benefit park improvements which included two pavilions and playground equipment for two areas. Together, they had three daughters, Trish, Tara, and Tiffany, who were “Orv’s Terrific Trio.”

His working years were primarily spent in sales for Bankers Advertising Company, and also selling everything from jewelry, air purifiers, credit card machines, and even “flipped” cars. He was the epitome of the man who could sell ice to an Eskimo. His sense of humor and endless amount of charisma were an unstoppable combination. Orv always knew that there was more to life than work. Orv treasured time in the kitchen, making meals, baking homemade bread, and cooking on the grill. Leftovers were always shared and enjoyed by lucky recipients. He enjoyed tinkering around the house with his faithful canine companions, first Bitsy and then Max, along with visiting his buddy, Don, at the garage. Orv was not one to sit still for long and continually found ways to share his humor, gift of gab, and ingenuity with everyone whose path he crossed. Orv loved to laugh, almost as much as making others laugh.

Orv’s grandkids were the “Magnificent 7,” and his pride and joy. Together, they enjoyed ice cream sundaes, campfires, popcorn, and golf cart rides. His family often gathered where jokes were exchanged, games played, and many meals shared—including hosting an annual Thanksgiving meal for over 100 relatives.

He will be dearly missed, but will always be remembered for the indelible impression he left in our hearts. Thank you, Orv, for reminding us not to take life too seriously, and may you find peace from your earthly battles now as we await to hear your infamous chuckle and hugs when we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Orville include,

his loving wife,
Jody Brothers, Peosta, IA;

his three adored daughters,
Trish (Mike) Harman, West Salem, WI,
Tara Brothers, Dubuque, IA,
and Tiffany (Greg) Stietz, Epworth, IA;

his seven grandchildren,
Allison, Emma and, Mason Harman; Caleb and Caden Brothers; Elijah and Molly Stietz;

his brothers,
Bill Johll, Peosta, IA,
and Ron (Cindy) Armstrong, Crystal Lake, IL;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Jim (Joan) Burlage, Kieler, WI,
Harry (Kim) Burlage, Kieler, WI,
Mary Jo Burlage, Kieler, WI,
and Rita Brothers, Dubuque, IA;

Orville was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Charlie (Shirley) Brothers, Glenna (Bus) Boullear, Florence (Van) VanBlarcum, David (Shirley) Johll, Delbert Brothers, Sandy Johll, and Eleanor Jeans-Peasel;, and his in-laws, Bud (Arlene) Burlage, Jack Burlage, Tom Burlage, Jan (John) Smith, Jeanie (Ed) Hendricks, Dick (Ruth) Burlage, and Linda Johll.

Orv’s family would like to thank the staff at ProMedica and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care and support. Your generous love and kindness brought peace and empathy to his short, but hard-fought battle with cancer. A special thank you to members of the Dubuque Fellowship Club who offered guidance and strength. We also thank Tri-State Cremation Center for helping our family through this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, an Orville L. Brothers memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

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

Imogene P. Dura

Imogene (Jean) Pearl Dura, 96, of Dubuque, Iowa, rejoiced on September 1, 2022, to enter into the Presence of her beloved Saviour Jesus Christ. She passed away peacefully at home. Always prayerful, Jean’s lively spirit encouraged others to pursue higher avenues of faith. Blessed with gifts of patience and love, Jean will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Imogene (Jean), was born on December 19, 1925, daughter of George and Lillian (Birch) Lieb. Imogene married the love of her life, Steve A. Dura, Aug. 31, 1944, at St. Patrick’s Church, Dubuque IA. They had five children.

Always an example of Christ’s compassion, love and forgiveness, Jean’s wit and humor made others feel safe and comfortable, giving them a sense of quiet and profound joy. She was a self-taught master baker, seamstress and quilter. Her homemade cakes, cookies and pies were legendary. She worked as a specialty commission baker for many in the Dubuque area while raising five children with her husband on their small homestead. She loved gardening and for many years all her family’s meals were taken from her large garden. She loved spending quiet moments in nature, music, poetry and the color green. Her love and unselfish caregiving brought spiritual and emotional healing to many. Her soft-spoken ways exuded wisdom to those around her. She will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Jean was preceded in death by her devoted husband of nearly 65 years, Steve Albert Dura; both of her parents passed away when Jean was very young. With the strength of her belief’s she faced the passing of her husband, two daughters, Carol M. (James) Schwendinger and Sharon L. (William) Schnoebelen; a son Steven T. Dura; grandson Austin Dura and brothers George (Betty) Lieb, Leonard (Freida) Lieb, and David (Gloria) Lieb, and her sister Ellen (Jack) Ward.

Surviving are a daughter, Mary M. (William) Schnoebelen and a son, Daniel J. Dura, along with many nieces and nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Many thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their support during Jean’s passing.

An Imogene Dura memorial fund has been established and gifts may be made in lieu of flowers.

Jamison C. Kuhle

Jamison (Jamie) C. Kuhle of Dallas, Texas, formerly of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at his residence, due to Diabetic hypoglycemia.

Family and friends may visit from Noon to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a Memorial Service will be held at 2:30 p.m., with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Private family burial will be at the Nativity BVM Cemetery at Menominee, IL.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Jamie from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 10, 2022, at The Other Side in East Dubuque.

Jamie was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on March 18,1987, the son of Thomas and Cathy (Fellenzer) Kuhle.

He attended Wahlert High school and Loras College, in Dubuque, where he excelled as President of the Debate team and advanced to Nationals in Mock Trials, both which served him well in his professional career.

Jamie was currently employed as Vice President of Business Development at Mentis Group, Inc. in Dallas, Texas.

Jamie (Jaim-O to his Dallas and Dubuque crews) was passionate about music, whether writing, performing, or just listening.  A self-taught guitarist, Jamison’s love of playing (or shredding as he referred to it) the guitar was evident as he performed for friends, family or in front of large audiences. He will always be remembered for his days with “Seppuku” in his younger years and for his gigs with other pick-up bands in the Dallas area. Jamie would drop anything to help his brother, Ryan, and was his primary caregiver and roommate during the COVID pandemic.  Jaimie loved any contact sport where his size was an attribute. He especially loved his football days and the time he spent as a member of the Dubuque Rugby Club. He would find any excuse to gather with friends, no matter the time or day and loved collecting and playing classic Super Nintendo games. Watch out if he invited you to play a simple board game as he was a fierce competitor in scrabble, Uno, and Dominoes and was the Self Proclaimed “King” of any game of strategy.  Jamie loved debating philosophy and politics, lifting weights, and consuming copious amounts of food.  If you knew him well, then you can probably hear his response to “Jamison?” in the form of a deep baritone “Whatison?”

Jamie had a huge heart and strong arms for hugs he easily gave, and he gave plenty.  If you were lucky enough to receive one, you knew it was genuine. He also expressed his love for you easily. He is already missed beyond measure by so many.

Surviving are his parents, Cathy (Kevin) Kramer of East Dubuque, Illinois, and Thomas (Edie) Kuhle of Dubuque, Iowa; his brothers Ryan Kuhle of Austin, Texas and Cory (Megan Harris) Kramer of Dubuque Iowa; his sister Natalie Kuhle of Dubuque Iowa; his step-brother, Max (Trisha) Huss of Asbury, Iowa; his grandparents, Edwin and Joyce (Welp)  Kuhle of Menominee, Illinois and grandmother, Sharon Kramer of East Dubuque, Illinois. Aunts and Uncles Mark (Lori) Fellenzer, Cindy (Jeff) Maeder, Kyle (Linda) Kramer, Dave (Loise) Kuhle, JoAnn Roberts, Mary Kruser, Barb (Gene) Osterholz, Bob (Barb) Kuhle, Jim (Ann) Huss, Mary (Bret) Fink, Theresa (Jeff) Doerr, Chris (Angie) Huss, his niece, Teagan Huss, many cousins, and many many friends.

Jamie was preceded in death by his brother Daniel Kuhle , his grandmother Rose Zirtzman , his step-grandfather Robert J. Huss, his Uncle Ruben (Al) Roberts, and his great grandparents,

Jamie, fly high, you are so loved!

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

Patricia A. Mills

Patricia A. “Pat” Mills, age 81, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 31, 2022, at Dubuque Specialty Care surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Pat’s life private family services were held.  Burial will be in Rockdale Cemetery at a later date.

Pat was born on June 1, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of James and Sarah (Frost) Campbell.

Pat was employed with several places throughout the years including Advance Transformer in Platteville and Skyline in Fennimore where she made parts for the inside of mobile homes.  She was married to Donald Mills in 1989, in Des Moines, Iowa and they shared 3 wonderful years together before he passed away in 1992.  Pat was also blessed with 5 children during her lifetime.  In her free time she loved to travel, especially to Oregon, going fishing and riding her horses.  She and Don also traveled the country selling their wares at local flea markets.  Family time was always at the top of Pat’s priority list and fun activities were always planned.  Pat was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

her children,
Sharon (Brian) Trypp, Dubuque, IA,
Patricia (Jay) Winger, Dubuque, IA,
Mary Jo Hendren, Dubuque, IA
and Robert (Tina Sawyer) Hendren, Dubuque, IA;

12 grandchildren;

23 great-grandchildren;

2 great great-grandchild and one on the way;

her siblings,
Jimmie Miller, Dubuque, IA,
Neva Maas, Dubuque, IA,
Gene Campbell, Bemidji, MN
and Mike Campbell, Dubuque, IA;

a son-in-law,
Chris Birch Sr.;

and several nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald Mills; a son, Gary Wayne Hendren; a grandson, Joshua Hendren; and her siblings, Margaret in infancy, Sarah “Sally” Paris and Frank Campbell.

Pat’s family would like to thank her great-grandson, Josh, for caring for her over the summer, her granddaughter, Sarah Jean, for spending nights at the nursing home with her, and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kindness and compassion these past weeks.

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

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

Betty J. Sprengelmeyer

Betty J. Sprengelmeyer, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on August 30, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Betty’s life, a graveside committal will be held on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1111 Davis St, in Dubuque, with Rev. Calvin Konop officiating.  A Celebration of Life will be held following her graveside service from 3:00-7:00 p.m., on Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, in the Riverfront Pavilion at Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Ave, in Dubuque.   The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Betty’s family.

Betty was born on December 22, 1949, in Dubuque, a daughter to Fred C. and Rosella E. (Fiedler) Sprengelmeyer.  Betty was a proud lifelong resident of Dubuque and her early years were no exception.  She learned the value of family and friends at a young age and had developed many relationships, on and off the Tennis courts, which would last a lifetime before she had even graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1968.  Her working years were spent primarily with the Dubuque Community School District, Flick’s Audio and Video, Regency Thermographic, and Betty even went on to faithfully invest another 22 years of her working career as a press operator at Quad Graphics, all while developing even more lasting friendships along the way.  Eventually, upon retirement Betty was able to relax and spend many hours simply socializing with her family and friends.

In her free-time though, Betty found her greatest joys on the more athletic side of life.  Whether she was enjoying the afternoon sun while fishing with her family, or chasing that elusive hole in one around the golf course with friends, she was always happy to have the chance to do so.  An evening of playing softball with friends was one of Betty’s favorite ways to spend her quality free-time when the opportunity arose. Betty was also an avid Cubs and Packer fan, along with being an active woman throughout the majority of her life and she continually embraced each day with an attitude of fulfillment.

Those who knew and loved Betty will forever miss her beautiful soul and spirit.  We are eternally grateful for the abundance of years the Lord was kind enough to share her with us and we now discover real hope in knowing that we will see her in absolute glory again one day.  Thank you, Betty for all of the memories you’ve left behind and may you find peace in your loving Father’s arms until we meet again!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Betty include,

her siblings,
Fred Sprengelmeyer, Hazel Green, Wisconsin,
Karen (Mack) Bealmer, Macon, Missouri,
Barbara (Don) Preston, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Jean Kapp, Dubuque, Iowa;

her godchildren,
Todd (Tara) Preston, Hewitt, WI,
and Melissa (Brent) Culbertson, East Dubuque, IL;

her nieces and nephews,
Jeremy (Alicia) Kapp, Dubuque, IA,
Brian (Carrie) Preston, Dubuque, IA,
Beth Preston, Dubuque, IA,
Derek (Susan) Erhart, O’Fallon, MO,
Tammy (Tom) Spudich, Lake St. Louis, MO,
and Chris Erhart, Kirksville, MO;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents, and a brother-in-law, Doug Kapp.

Betty’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Stonehill, especially Norma and Sheila for all of their wonderful care and support they have so faithfully provided to Betty, and her family.  We would also like to extend a very sincere thank you to her special and dear friends, Peg Wilwert and Karen Weiner for all of the love and patience you have so generously given Betty along her journey.  May all of you be blessed beyond measure for your kindnesses!

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