Obituaries Archive

Mildred M. Scharf

Mildred M. “Millie” (Oberfoell) Scharf, age 93, of Marion and formerly of Dubuque, passed away at 1:01 pm on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Terrace Glen Village in Marion, Iowa.  To celebrate Millie’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, May 2, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Millie was born on January 21, 1929, in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Paul and Ida (Gansemer) Oberfoell.

Millie was born and raised in the Sherrill/Balltown area where she graduated from St. Peter and Paul School in Sherrill.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Wayne Scharf, on October 18, 1958, at St. Patrick’s Church.  They were blessed with a son, a daughter and 43 wonderful years of marriage before Wayne passed away on December 16, 2001.  Millie worked several places throughout her 93 years, but was proudest of her role of wife, mother, homemaker and volunteer within her community.  She truly loved caring for her family and doted on the grandchildren.  She was a faith filled woman who loved God, her country and her beloved Church of the Nativity.  In her free time, Millie enjoyed reading, listening to county music and getting outside to go walking.  She was a huge George Strait fan and was fortunate to see him live several times over the years.  She also watched the Cubs play “with” Wayne and loved a spirited game of Euchre.  In later years she enjoyed adult coloring books and became known as  “The Bingo Queen”.  Millie was truly one of a kind, a wonderful woman who gave freely of her time and always made sure her family knew how loved they were.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Millie’s memory include

her children,
Melissa (Michael) Stickney, Marion, IA
and Michael (Lisa) Scharf, Van Alstyne, TX;

her grandsons,
Michael (Katie) Scharf, Justin (Ariel) Scharf, Mitchell Stickney and Mason Stickney;

2 great-grandchildren,
Addison Scharf and Atlas Scharf;

her siblings,
Lillian (Don) Huff, Dubuque, IA,
Jerome (Ruby) Oberfoell, Sherrill, IA
and Diane (Bill) Kreiman, Dubuque, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Lillian Oberfoell,
Karen Oberfoell,
Shirley Oberfoell,
Joan Oberfoell
and Carol Oberfoell;

and many nieces and nephews.

Millie was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Ida; her husband, Wayne Scharf; and her brothers and sisters, Alice (Tom) Mooney, Effie (Don) Smith, Melvin (Audrey) Oberfoell, Irene (Richard) Griebel, Delbert Oberfoell, Paul A. Oberfoell, John (Katie) Oberfoell, Norma Jean (Martin) Hammerand, James Oberfoell, Peter Oberfoell and Albert “Albie” Oberfoell.

Millie’s family would like to extend a special thanks to St. Croix Hospice, and all of the staff at Terrace Glen Village for the wonderful care they have provided for Millie.

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

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

Gerald L. Thalhamer

Gerald L “Jerry” Thalhamer passed away on April 21, 2022, at 8:05 PM. at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, Dubuque, IA.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday, May 7th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home 7 Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery.

Jerry was born January 18, 1946, to his parents Willis G and Doris V (Keller) Thalhamer. He was raised in Dubuque and attended Marshall elementary, Jefferson Jr. High and Dubuque Senior High schools and graduated from Senior with the Class of 1964.

After graduation from high school, he attended Iowa State University in Ames Iowa where he majored in Phys Ed and graduated receiving his teaching degree in 1969. While at Iowa State he played baseball for the Cyclones for four years under the legendary “Cap” Timm.

When he returned to Dubuque after graduation, he taught elementary Phys. Ed at various schools from 1969 until his retirement in 2001. He was a coach with Senior’s football team for 14 years and a coach with Senior’s baseball team for 5 seasons.

Jerry was a prominent figure in both baseball and softball circles in Dubuque for many years. In 1986 he was elected to the Dubuque Fastpitch Hall of Fame, in 1994 to the Kiwanis Hall of Fame and in 2018 he was elected to the Dubuque Senior High School Sports Hall of Fame.

After his baseball and softball career, Jerry began enjoying karaoke for many years at the Rainbow lounge in the Canfield Hotel. His many friends there will remember him well.

He is survived by his brother Jay Thalhamer and his wife Janice of Louisville, KY; his brother-in-law Earl Alexander, of Dubuque; two nieces Lindsey (Chris) Kleinheksel, of Denver, IA, and Christine (James) Dix, of Dubuque, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents Willis and Doris Thalhamer and his sister Janice Alexander.

The family would like to extend gratitude and a heartfelt thank you to the outstanding care and support provided by the doctors, nurses, and staff from UnityPoint Health — Finley Hospital, ICU and Med/Surg units, Dubuque, IA.

Bonita L. Ott

Bonita “Bonnie” Louise Ott, 75 of Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully Wednesday morning, April 13, 2022 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, IA.

She was born on December 10, 1946 in Sandusky, OH and graduated from St Mary’s Catholic High School in 1964. In 1965 she entered the Dominican Convent known as Sister Elise. She left the convent in 1967 and joined the Women’s Army Corps 6 months later. She served as a US Army clerk during Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. She was proud to use her calligraphy skills in filling out the Medal of Honor and other award certificates for her fellow soldiers.

She married Edward Busler (deceased) of Vinton, IA in 1969 and had 3 daughters with him before divorcing in 1973. It was a blessing she remained friends with his family, him and his next wife, Beverly (Samaritoni) Busler.

She was preceded in death by her parents Joseph and Murita (Westerhold) Ott, her brother Leonard Ott, her sister and brother-in-law Kathleen and Francis Durso and her brother-in-law Howard “Bunk” Trautman.

She is survived by her children and grandchildren: Dianna (Busler) Perl and her children Devon Cancian and Aaron Perl; Donna (Busler) Welch (IA) and her children Travis Cullen (IA), Trevor Cullen (VA), Dylan Cullen (WI), Cassaundra (Welch) (Andre) Morrow (NC) and Nakia Welch (IA) and, Rebecca (David) Schulze (IA). She is also survived by her siblings, David (Barb) Ott, Laureen (Louis) Bartlebaugh, Jerilyn (John) Wassner, Julie (Robert) Hamilton, Russel (Dodie) Ott, Malia Ott: all of Ohio, Ronan (Elizabeth) Ott of FL and Marsianne (Ott) Miranda of MD.

As per her wishes there will be no visitation or funeral. A private celebration of life will be held with family and close friends at a later date. Our thanks to Leonard Funeral Home in Dubuque, IA for helping us navigate everything. Huge heartfelt thanks to everyone at Sunnycrest Nursing Home in Dubuque, IA for the constant care, concern and support they not only showed for Bonnie but for her family, especially Donna.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to: Donation processing The Michael J. Fox Foundation, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014 or the Veterans Freedom Center, 2245 Kerper Blvd., Dubuque, IA 52001.

Joseph H. Klein

Joseph “Joe” H. Klein, 83, of Bellevue, passed away on, Wednesday, April 27, 2022 at Jackson County Regional Health Center.  Visitation will be 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm, Wednesday, May 4. 2022 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation in Bellevue.  Private Family Graveside Services with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in First Presbyterian Cemetery following the visitation.

Joe was born January 11, 1939, the son of Joseph and Lucille (Jellison) Klein.  He served his country in United States Navy for 23 years before retiring.  Joe married Lydia Roberts on March 1st, 1964 in Louisiana while serving in the Navy.  Joe then worked for US industrial Chemicals and Anamosa State Prison as a boiler technician, before retiring.  He was a very giving man to his family, always there to lend a hand.  Joe enjoyed the outdoors, mowing, gardening, hunting, and fishing.  He also enjoyed woodworking and painting ceramics in his early years.  He enjoyed his routine of watching his favorite TV shows and enjoying time with his children and grandchildren.  Joe will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Lydia; children, Joey (Rhonda) Klein, Jr., Kathy (Gary) Rowan, Kenny (Sue) Klein, Lora (Bryan Till) Williams, and John (Marlee) Klein; 22 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; a brother, Dean (Tori) Klein and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; a son in-law, Marty Budde; a daughter in-law, Sandra Jo Klein; a grandson, Justin; siblings, Francis (Barbara) Cooper, Robert Cooper, Gloria (Eldon) Millam,  Loreen (Richard) Putman, and Doris Berendes.

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

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

Steven J. Kuhle

Steven J. “Steve” Kuhle, 66, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 22, 2022.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. April 29, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.  A funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home with Mike Jones officiating and military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Steven was born on December 1, 1955, the son of LaVern and Doris Kuhle of Hazel Green, Wisconsin.

He graduated from Hazel Green High School in 1974, and immediately entered the United States Army, serving during the Vietnam War. Following the Army, Steven had a career as a bartender at the Brass Ring and a machinist at AY McDonald and Adams Company.

Steven was a loving husband and father who enjoyed quality time with his family. He also enjoyed time with friends and was always up for a game of Euchre. The Packers, Badgers, Brewers, and Bucks were his favorite teams. In addition to being a huge sports fan, golf was his personal passion and he loved playing with his son Brandon and his brothers.

Steven is survived by his wife, Lee Ann Kuhle, a daughter, Allison Kuhle and a son, Brandon Kuhle, his 8 siblings, Pat Fleege, Rick (Karen) Kuhle, Dan (Claire) Kuhle, Mary Jo (Beaner) Runde, Ron (Carolyn) Kuhle, Kate (Bill) Vickerman, Ken (Jane) Kuhle and Tina Kuhle.

Steven was preceded in death by his parents, LaVern and Doris Kuhle, sister and brother-in-law, Janet and Jared Kowalski, sister, Diane O’Shea, brother-in-law Tom Fleege, and 2 nephews, Adam Runde and Alex Kuhle.

Heather L. Riley

Heather Lynn (Loring) Riley, 46, of Asbury, Iowa passed away on April 25th, 2022.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday, April 30th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. with Fr. Dave Flanagan officiating. Burial will follow in Lakeview Cemetery ~ St. Joseph Section, in Fort Atkinson, WI.

Heather was born on July 23, 1975, in Platteville, Wisconsin, daughter of Daniel and Maureen (Gile) Loring. She grew up in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin and completed her undergraduate studies at the U.W. La Crosse and later received her Master’s Degree in Special Education from Loras College in Dubuque. She taught at many schools in the tri-state area.

Heather’s entire world centered around her boys who could do no wrong in her eyes. She enjoyed the warm weather and being outdoors with family and friends.  She took the upmost pride in teaching her students.  We will remember Heather with a smile on her face while surrounded by those closest to her.

She is survived by her two sons Maxwell Regan and Fletcher Riley, both of Dubuque; brother Jeff Loring of Chicago; step-brother Brian (Nicole) Glynn of Waunakee, Wisconsin; step-sister Julie (Scott) Klieman of Cedar Falls, Iowa; step-sister Jill Carpenter of Dubuque, Iowa; step-father James Glynn of Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin; and step-mother Patsi Daehler of Asbury, Iowa.

Heather was preceded in death by her parents Maureen Glynn and Daniel Loring.

In lieu of flowers, a Heather Riley Memorial Fund has been established.

John I. Schwartz

John I. “Jack” Schwartz, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 25th, 2022, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, April 28th, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A graveside service will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 29th, 2022, at Mount Calvary Cemetery with Deacon John Stierman officiating with military honors to follow by the American Legions Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jack was born on July 22, 1935, in Dubuque, IA the son of Larry and Ethyl (Gross) Schwartz. On July 5, 1958, he married Corrine Nachtman in Dubuque. He is a US Army Veteran serving during the Korean War. He retired from John Deere in 1991 after 33 years of employment and was an active member of the UAW local union 94.

Jack loved fishing, camping, splitting wood and tinkering around the yard on Riverside Rd (and by “tinkering” we mean taking apart and never putting back together).  He found great joy in coaching his son’s hockey team, watching his grandkids play for the Jr Saints, wrestle and compete in MMA and the lifelong DYHA friendships that were made. After retirement, he went back to “work” with his nephew, Tom (niece Chris), where he was the inspiration for the company’s slogan – “You don’t know Jack until you’ve had Hefel Hoof Trimming”.  At any given time, you could enjoy a beer with Jack at the L&E Tap, the Airport Inn or around the fire in the yard.  He’s been waiting a long time to enjoy an “avalon” and a dip of Copenhagen with his twin brother Jerry & son Kenny who we lost too soon.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 64 years Corrine; children Laurie Schumacher, Julie (Gary) Kunkel and Mike (Beth) Schwartz; 10 grandchildren Cara (Jason), Adam, Hallie (Eric), Tyler (Sam), Allison (Craig), Molly (Tony), Lydia, Mason, Eli & Evan; 4 great grandchildren Kierce, Lyla, Scarlett & Kolby; brother Pete Schwartz; sister-in-law Mary Nachtman and his many nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son Kenny; his identical twin brother Jerry, Jerry’s wife Donna and their daughter Rhoda; his parents Larry and Ethyl; his siblings Melvin & William Kaiser and Donna Davis; along with other extended family members.

Jack’s family would like to extend a personal thank you to all of the staff at Manor Care, Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care and kindness over the last five years.

Albertina M. Key

Albertina M. “Tina” (Beversdorf) Key, age 94, of Peosta, passed away at 7:07 p.m., on Monday, April 25, 2022, at home with her loving family by her side.  To celebrate Tina’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., on Monday, May 2, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Monday at the funeral home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Tina was born on January 18, 1928, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Rudolph and Ann (Smith) Beversdorf.

Tina attended St. Mary’s Grade School in Dubuque.  She met a wonderful young man named Loran Key while working at Melody Mill one night, and they both knew immediately they had found their perfect match.  The two were united in marriage on January 16, 1954, in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 43 years of marriage and 10 children together before Loran passed away on March 30, 1998.  Tina was a devoted wife and mom who took meticulous care of her home and family.  In her younger days, she enjoyed bowling several days a week and was a member of the 600 Club.  In later years, she switched to Bingo.  Loran joked “that the balls were lighter, and she didn’t have to change her shoes”.  Everyone who knew her knew that Tina was a die hard Cubs fan, but she would also watch the Chicago Bulls.  She also enjoyed watching game shows and listening to Elvis.  No doubt, her family was the aspect of Tina’s life that brought her the most joy.  She truly loved spending time with all of the kids and grandkids, and she never missed a birthday.  Tina was a wonderful woman who took great pride in all that she did.  She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Tina’s memory include

her 9 children,
Eugene (Lori) Key, Dubuque, IA,
Lon (Rachel Fecteau) Key, Norwich, CT,
Ronald (Tammy) Key Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Melvin (Jean) Key, Dubuque, IA,
Kelvin (Lisa Eubanks) Key Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Donnie Key, Dubuque, IA,
Terry (Shirley) Key, Dubuque, IA,
Melody (Mike Kramer) Key, Peosta, IA
and Timmy (fiancé Carly Saul) Key, Dubuque, IA;

many-many grandchildren, especially Nikkia and Katelyn whom she helped raise, great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren;

her life long friend,
Bea Buelow;

and numerous nieces and nephews.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Loran Key; a daughter, Barbara Ties; a daughter-in-law, Laverne Key; 2 granddaughters, Tonya Key and Loralie Key; and her siblings, Delores, Beverly, Rudolph, Richard and Duane.

Tina’s family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Konz and her nurse Sherry, the doctors, nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, especially Amanda, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and compassionate care.  Also a very special thanks to our sister, Melody and her husband Mike, who cared for mom at home for 15 years.  Without her help mom would not have been able to remain in the home she so loved.

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

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

Michael R. Hartford

Michael Robert Hartford, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 25, 2022.

According to the families wishes, no public services will be held. Private family services will be held at a later date.

Michael was born on January 4, 1944, to Robert Hartford and Lucille (Frommelt) Hartford. He later married Jayne Steiner, on September 3, 1965. Michael worked many years at Dubuque Packing Company, and later for Wal-Mart. He was a member of Local 150A.

He was an avid hunter, especially pheasant hunting with his sons. He enjoyed betting on the dogs, betting on the slot machines and playing Cribbage with Jayne. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his dog “JD”.

Michael is survived by two sons, Greg (Jeni) Hartford and Gerry (Sherry) Hartford; a sister, Debbie (Jerry) Jasper and a brother, Tim (Sue) Hartford; 4 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.

Michael is preceded in death by his wife, Jayne; a son, Gary Hartford; his parents, Robert and Lucille; a brother, John; a sister Sharon Mueller; brother-in-law, Randy; sisters-in-law Charlene and Malia and his in-laws, Robert and Rita Meihe.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Luther Manor Hillcrest, especially, Lisa.

Van Warren Butcher

Van Warren Butcher, age 83, of Dyersville, IA, was called home suddenly into the grace-filled arms of his Lord and Savior on April 21, 2022, at MercyOne in Dubuque.  To honor Van’s life, military honors will be accorded by the Dyersville American Legion Post # 137 at Mount Hope Cemetery in Dyersville at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Van’s family.

Van was born on July 23, 1938, in Powell, Tennessee, a son to Van Buren and Elsie Butcher.  Once he came of age, Van proudly joined the U.S. Air Force and went on to honorable serve for 21 years as an aircraft mechanic before eventually retiring and returning to the private sector.  He soon found himself at home in the driver’s seat of his big rig and was an over the road truck driver for another 25 years before finally retiring for good due to health issues.  Van was united in marriage to Susan Wessels on May 8, 2016, and the couple decided to make their way back home to Dyersville in 2020 to be closer to family as Van’s health concerns continued to progress.  Van was a humble, honest and caring man who took great pride in being the man the Lord had made him to be.  If he wasn’t giving of himself, or helping others in some way, you could easily find him working on classic cars for most of his life, especially his favorite Corvettes which he was rumored to be able to fix with his eyes closed.  Van had a natural gift for taking life’s challenges in stride and always possessed a positive and easy going attitude no matter what the day had to offer.  It is with very heavy hearts that we say Farewell for Now to Van, but we know and trust that he is safely at home now in his eternal estate and completely free from all of his earthly battles.  Thank you, Van, for leaving behind such a wonderful legacy of love for others, life, and God that we can treasure through each day ahead while we wait patiently to see your beautiful spirit once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Van include,

his loving wife,
Susan Butcher, Dyersville, IA;

along with numerous extended family and friends.

Van was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, and 3 sisters.

Van’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sr. Virginia Crilly, BVM

Sister Virginia “Ginny” Crilly, BVM, 82, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, April 20, 2022.

Private funeral services will be Tuesday, April 26, 2022. Visitation will be 9 – 9:45 a.m. followed by the Sharing of Memories at 9:45 a.m. The Mass of Christian Burial begins at 10:30 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. Services are private due to COVID-19 restrictions. All services may be viewed through live videostream at https://portal.stretchinternet.com/bvmsisters/.

Sister Virginia ministered first as pastoral associate and then as pastorate administrator for the Penta Parishes in Jackson County, Iowa, namely Holy Rosary and St. Theresa, LaMotte; St. John, Andrew; St. Lawrence, Otter Creek; and Assumption, Sylvia Switch.  She served the BVM congregation as a pastoral care minister at Mount Carmel in Dubuque, Iowa. She was an elementary teacher in Phoenix and Tempe, Ariz., and principal in Santa Clara, Calif.

She was born Feb. 28, 1940, in Elmhurst, Ill., to Joseph and Therese (Nash) Crilly. She entered the BVM congregation Aug. 2, 1958, from Immaculate Conception Parish, Elmhurst, Ill. She professed first vows on Feb. 2, 1961, and final vows on July 16, 1966.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Richard Crilly, Philip (Virginia) Crilly, and Father James Crilly, CSV; and a sister Margaret Mary “Dolly” (Robert) Shields.  She is survived by a sister-in-law Dolores “Dory” Crilly, La Grange, Ill.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 63 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

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

Gary J. Smith

Gary Joseph Smith, 79, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on April 20, 2022, at 9:54 am at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 12:00 p.m. on Monday, April 25, 2022 at Holy Family Church, New Melleray with Fr. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until time of mass. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.  For further obituary information please visit www.leonardfuneralhome.com.

Gary was born in Dubuque, IA, on  February 24, 1943, to his parents, Leonard Thomas Smith and Monica (Clemen) Smith. Gary was raised in  Peosta, IA on the family farm with his seven brothers and sisters.

Gary graduated from Peosta High School, Class of 1961. Gary married Carol Ann (Bakey) on June 27, 1964, at Holy  Family Church, New Melleray, IA.

Gary was proudly employed for 48-years at John Deere Dubuque Works as THE third shift toolmaker. Towards the end of his career at John Deere, Gary’s left hand was pulled into a milling machine  and he lost a finger and a thumb. He took an ambulance to the University of Iowa Hospital in an attempt to  reattach his digits. In the operating room, the surgeon told him they couldn’t be reattached. So, Gary had  the doctor cut off what was left and sew them up, with no anesthesia! He then went back to work the very  next day. Clearly Gary loved his profession, but he went back to work to prevent John Deere from recording  a lost day of work due to an accident…Gary was also very dedicated to his family and was always available  to lend a hand. During his off hours, you could find him working on machinery or helping with the harvest  on the farm in Peosta. Some years, he would do his shift at “Deere’s” and head straight to the farm, harvest  corn with his father and brothers, catch a few hours of sleep and repeat!

Gary was a member of the UAW Local 94 Union, Brotherhood of Teamsters and  Elks Lodge. Gary also enjoyed his experiences as the team bus driver for The Gentlemen of Dubuque Rugby  club.

In his younger years Gary enjoyed wrenching on cars and owned many classic GM  vehicles, his favorite, a 1969 Pontiac GTO. He also owned one Ford, a couple of Toyota and whatever was  the flavor of the month at Grady’s Done Right Autos. Gary definitely knew the meaning of “You asked for it, you got it…” As documented via family photographs, when still in his teens, Gary once hoisted an engine  out of his car using a chain and a branch of a tree on the family farm. He started this project around noon  and by 7:00 pm that same night, he had swapped engines and was on his way to the dance! On any given  weekend you could find Gary at a local stock car race or touring around on his Harley Davidson. Once Gary  fell in love and married Carol, slow pitch softball, bowling, euchre and dancing became more his speed.  Gary was a proud father of two children and grandfather to four. You may have bumped into Gary a time or  two and been unable to escape as he energetically shared every detail about his kids, grandkids, or latest  experience. Later in life, Gary enjoyed vacationing with Carol and spending time in Arizona with family and  friends. After retirement you might have seen Gary at the local lock and damn #11, reading the paper, drinking coffee or just talking to people. He was such a fixture at lock #11, that many of the captains knew him by name and said hello when locking through…While dad is no longer with us, we know he is now  reunited with mom and together they are on their way to breakfast at the Village Inn, you go Elvis!

He is survived by his son, Dan Smith and his wife Jennifer (Helle) Smith, Dubuque, and their children, Cole and  Gabriella. His daughter, Dana Holthaus, and her husband Brad Holthaus, Dubuque, and their children  Isabella and Sophia. Brothers, Leonard Thomas “Lonnie” Smith II, and Christopher (Mary Beth) Smith.  Sisters, Mary Helen (Richard) Goss, Laura Smith. Cousin Grayson (Janet) Smith. Brother-in-laws Richard  (Keiko) Bakey, Gene “Mud” Bakey, John (Ruth) Bakey, Mark Beckman, Mike Breen and Don Hentges. Sister in-law Juanita Bakey and many loving nieces and nephews.

Gary is preceded in death by his wife Carol Ann (Bakey) Smith, his father Leonard, mother Monica (Clemen) Smith, and their stillborn baby. His stepmother and aunt, Innocence Ann (Clemen) Smith, brother David Smith, sisters Diane Hentges and Karen Smith. His father-in-law James Bakey, mother-in-law Bernice (Cavanaugh)  Bakey, brother-in-law Jerry (Juanita) Bakey, and sisters-in-law, Mary (Bakey) Breen, Darlene (Bakey)  Beckman and Kay (Gene) Bakey.

In lieu of flowers, the family will be honoring the University of Iowa Holden Comprehensive  Cancer Center. Gary successfully conquered cancer three times, thanks to the world class care provided by  Dr. James Howe, Dr. Guido Tricot, and Dr. Margarida Silverman and his favorite, “Nurse Ratchet”. He also  survived a massive stroke and had a heart valve clip installed, but truly not worthy of mention…Wherever he went, doctors and nurses would say, “Gary had an impressive medical history.”

The family would like to extend gratitude and a heartfelt thank you to the outstanding care  and support provided by the doctors, nurses, and staff from UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital, ICU, Dubuque, IA. The following individuals went above and beyond to treat and comfort Gary. Thank you, Dr. Braden Powers, Dr. Alexander Chung, Dr. John Whalen and Dr. Tauseef Kahn. Thank you to the AMAZING  nursing team: Michele, Jenna, Jess, Tanya, Diane, Gloria, and Sarah. Thank you to Chaplain Claudia Dorsch and Father Rodney Allers.

Jude T. Brashaw

Mr. Jude Thomas “Bubba” Brashaw, dedicated father, uncle and grandfather left his earthly body to begin his next journey on Thursday March 31^st, 2022. Jude touched so many in his full life of 72 years. A memorial mass for Jude will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at St. Joe the Worker Catholic Church, 2001 St. Joseph Street in Dubuque, with Father Jim Goerend officiating.  Family and friends are also invited to join in fellowship and the memory of Jude during a Celebration of Life event on Saturday, April 30, 2022, at Lot 1, 100 Main Street in Dubuque. All those interested in attending are encouraged to join anytime between 1:00 and 5:00 PM. Online condolences for Jude’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Born in Key West, he was a lifelong resident of the Dubuque area. Jude loved summers with his family, but hated the snow, often exclaiming “you can’t shovel sunshine”. Jude also loved competitive sports, excelling in tennis, baseball, golf and darts, having started the dart league at his Dubuque bar, “The Finale”. Jude enjoyed a taste for smooth jazz, was an avid Cubs fan, and enjoyed comfortably simple moments. Jude excelled at chasing girls in his younger days and the goofiest sense of humor and being the best grandfather in his older days.

While attending High School at Wahlert, Jude worked at Trenkle’s Butcher shop in Dubuque and at the Dubuque Pack while putting himself through college at Loras, where he was a proud alumnus. Jude enjoyed working the family business at Iowa Engineering company along with other family members including his father, and beloved brother Gus. Jude also spent time working in the oil industry and eventually retired from a long tenure at Dubuque’s Rite Hite.

Surviving are his children Jeremy Brashaw of Denver, CO, Kari Brashaw (Rob Leick) of Dubuque, Kelli (James) King of Dubuque, his grandchildren Madyson, Cameron, Eli and Dawson of Dubuque, Siblings John “B” (Sara) Brashaw of Chattanooga, TN, Jeanne (Jim) Delasandro of Oak Park, Ill, Maury (Bette) Brashaw of Surprise AZ, and many niece & nephews whom he loved dearly and who likewise loved his smile and dedication to fun times.

Jude is preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Eleanor (Cashman) Brashaw, brothers Carl and Paul “Gus” Brashaw, sister-in-law Kathy Brashaw, and nephew Jim “John” Delasandro.

The family would like to extend a very grateful thank you to the Dubuque’s Hospice team for all the care, laughter, kindness and concern they brought Jude. Their involvement made a world of difference to Jude’s quality of life in his last days.

We love you forever, Dad. Evah-Evah.

JoAnn E. Schlecht

JoAnn E. (Wenzel) Schlecht, 86, of Bellevue, passed away at her home on Wednesday, April 20, 2022.  Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Monday, April 25th, 2022 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, April 24, 2022 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 10:00 am until service time on Monday, April 25th, 2022 at the church.  Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

JoAnn was born September 7, 1935, the daughter of Arthur and Catherine (Blievernicht) Wenzel.  She married Joseph E. Schlecht on May 31, 1954, he passed on March 24, 2018.  JoAnn enjoyed attending barn dances in her earlier years.  She worked at Mill Valley Care Center as a CNA for 30 years.  JoAnn loved to play the accordion, especially at family gatherings.  She collected many owls over the years, and that how the Hoot Owl Holler got its name.  JoAnn enjoyed working on puzzles, and adult coloring books.  Her greatest joy was time with family, her faith and enjoying visits from friends and family.

Survivors include a daughter, Paula (Gus) Leavens, of Chadwick, Illinois; two sons, George (Cindy) Schlecht, of Bellevue and Frank (June) Schlecht, of Clinton; six grandchildren, Laurie (Steve) Schroeder, Erin (Alfie) Mohr, Brandon (Kerissa) Schlecht, Mathew (Ashley) Schlecht, David Schlecht and Kimberly (Kevin) Schlecht; great-grandchildren, Breanna and Kayleigh Schroeder, Paige, Carson, Jordyn Mohr, Kaydin Johnson, Kamdyn Schlecht, Mason, Knox, Evelyn Schlecht, Karter Heusinkveld, Owen, Payton, Paizley Andresen, and two one the way; siblings, Charles (Lenore) Wenzel and Paul (Marianne) Wenzel; sisters in-law, Linda Wenzel and Rita Wiegert.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings and in-laws, Mary Jo Rowland, Kathleen (Benjamin) Reistroffer, Bill Wenzel, Richard (Rosalee) Schlecht.

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

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

Lois Story Dale

Lois Story Dale, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at home on April 17, 2022.

No public services will be held at this time. A memorial will be held at Eagle Point Park this summer. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Lois was born on January 22, 1927, in Dubuque, daughter of Carl and Gladys (Miller) Rogers. She worked as a CNA at Finley for 15 years, and for 16 years in Oregon. She, for many years, belonged to the Dubuque Bible Church. Her family and friends at Applewood were very important to her. She walked with her Lord her whole life.

She is survived by her daughter Nancy Story, son Paul Story, daughter-in-law Mary Story, seven grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her son David, sister Martha, and brother Charles.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and loving attention.