Obituaries Archive

Donn L. Benischek

Donn L. Benischek, 71, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday evening, December 10, 2022, in Branson, Missouri.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 A.M., Saturday, December 17, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There is no visitation.  Burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

Donn Lee Benischek was born on March 31, 1951, in Anamosa, Iowa, to Robert and Mary (Hoffman) Benischek.  He was a 1972 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  After graduation, he had worked at DAC, Inc., and later Imagine The Possibilities, both in Maquoketa.

Donn loved to travel and take trips and enjoyed watching western movies and television shows.  He was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Cubs.

Those left to honor his memory include his siblings, Laurie (Mike) Lemmer of Cascade, IA, Georgia (Denny) Fields of Oxford Mills, IA, and Terry (Lori) Benischek of Maquoketa, IA; several nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and nephews, and several great-great-nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Steve and Robert “Jim Bob”, and a sister Christy Campbell.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Donn L. Benischek memorial fund has been established.

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

Joann L. Schumacher

Joann L. Schumacher, 86, of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away on Friday December 9, 2022. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday December 16, 2022, at St. Lawrence Church Otter Creek, 17486 Bellevue-Cascade Road, Zwingle, IA, with Father David Ambrosy officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the start of mass at the church. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Joann was born on September 5, 1936, in Iowa City, IA, daughter of Paul and RoseAnn (Stanisha) Beckley. She attended St. Joseph Academy in Dubuque, Iowa until the 12th grade. On September 26, 1956, she was united in marriage to Raymond Schumacher at Holy Rosary Church in La Motte, Iowa. She worked in the dairy farming industry raising registered Guernsey until 1993, after which she was employed at Eagle Country Market until her retirement in 2003.

Joann enjoyed many years of working with her registered Guernsey herd and tending to her beautiful flower gardens in her spare time. She deeply loved her family and all the memories and times she had with them.

Joann is survived by her children Mary Ann (Marlon) Cooper of Garrison, IA, Karen (Adam) Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Dave (Angel) Schumacher of Dixon, MO, and Christy (Mike) Lubben of Elhart Lake, WI, 29 grandchildren, 47 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren, three brothers Robert Beckley, George (Dee) Beckley, and Paul (Carol) Beckley, and three sisters Mary Ellen (Tom) O’Brien, Janet (Bob) Graff, and Shirley Lemm.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Ray, her parents, sister Dorthy (Ed) Reeg, brother Father Clarence Beckley, brother-in-law Bill Timmerman, sister-in-law Mary Beckley, and nephew Joe.

Cindy J. Holland

Cindy J. Holland, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 9, 2022, at home.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, December 17, 2022, at the Canton, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Cindy Jean Holland was born on January 2, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Clyde Carson and Jane Carol (Yarolem) Holland.  She was a 1979 graduate of Midland of Wyoming High School.

She had worked at Hoof Manufacturing, Family Dollar and most recently at Mallard Company in Maquoketa.

Cindy enjoyed fishing, and loved her dog, Ruby.

Those left to honor Cindy’s memory include her five siblings, Ronnie (Alice) Holland of Rockwell, IA, Mary Jo (Dave) Fuller of Monmouth, IA, Richard Holland of Marion, IA, Ed (Joleen) Holland of Wyoming, IA, and Gary (Tammy) Holland of Monmouth, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister Tracy Lynn Holland.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Cindy Jean Holland memorial fund.

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

Cheryl R. Tampir

Cheryl R. “Cherie” Tampir, 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 11, 2022, at home.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, December 16, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 15, 2022, from 4 to 7 P.M., at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private burial will be held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Cheryl Rae Andrews was born on September 5, 1945 in Vinton, Iowa, to Harold Donald and Velma Pearl (Craft) Andrews.  She was a 1963 graduate of Blairstown High School and furthered her education at the Cedar Rapids Business College.  Upon graduation, she was employed for seven years at Metropolitan Farm Mortgages.  She married Jeff William Tampir on June 13, 1970 at the Presbyterian Church in Blairstown, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Jason, and Tricia.

“Cherie” had worked as a paraeducator in the Maquoketa Community School District for 21 years, retiring in 2010.  In retirement, she continued to stay busy as a substitute teacher/associate for the Maquoketa Community School District.

“Cherie” was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, and a “Friend of the Maquoketa Caves”.  She volunteered and supported many area charities and events within the Maquoketa community and was the recipient of the Governor’s Volunteer Award.  She enjoyed cooking, flowers, watching sports, and spending time on the beach in Florida.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Jeff Tampir of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jason Tampir of Camanche, IA, and Tricia (Tim) Makinster of Ft. Lauderdale, FL; several nieces and nephews; and sisters-in-law.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers Dean Andrews and Don Andrews.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or the Jackson County Humane Society.

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

Elizabeth A. Kalb

Elizabeth Ann (Liz) Kalb, 60, passed away peacefully at Bethany Home on Saturday, December 10, 2022, after a long illness. Visitation will be held from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 14 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, where a scripture wake service will begin at 6:30 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, December 15 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with the Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. The Mass will be livestreamed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com. A private interment will be held later at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Liz was born on May 1, 1962, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of John T. (Jack) and Elizabeth A. (Betty Ann) Kalb.  She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1980.  Liz worked as a parts Planner at John Deere Dubuque Works for Hodge Inc for the last 24 years where she took much pride in her work and made many life-long friends.

Liz was a caring person and had a special calling in life to help elders in need.  In addition to working part-time jobs at Stonehill Care Facility and Luther Manor in which she served supper to residents, Liz helped her grandmother, aunt, mother, and father as they required assistance.  Liz happily took them to Mass, bought their groceries, took them to appointments and stayed overnight with them in case they needed help.  Liz’s family was blessed to have her as a family member.

Liz will long be remembered for purchasing group lottery tickets for friends and family.  Everyone knew what Liz meant when she asked, “Would you like to buy a bus ticket?”  When asked where the bus was going, Liz replied, “Wherever you want!”  She had a delightful sense of humor and although she never won her lottery “bus ticket”, she enjoyed the interaction with others as she purchased those many tickets.  Liz enjoyed bowling when she was younger.  Liz loved traveling out to Phoenix to visit her son and grandkids whom she loved very much. She also enjoyed shopping, dining out, visiting, and playing games with her many friends and family.

Liz is survived by her son, Joseph J. Schmitt of Surprise, Arizona, her grandchildren, Aria, Owen and Mercedes, sisters, and brothers; Marjorie (John) Fisher, John (Deb) Kalb, Carolyn (Bruce) Braley, Jean Kalb, Robert (Carol) Kalb, Steve (Sharon) Kalb and Janet (Jeff) Kamentz.  She is also survived by 20 nieces and nephews and 20 grand nieces and nephews.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Betty Ann Kalb, her aunts, and uncles; Rev Bertram Kalb, Rev Robert Kalb, Dr. A.J. (Millie) Kalb, Rev Howard Kalb S.J., Richard (Bernie) Kalb, Sr. Marie Therese Kalb O.S.F., Dr Thomas (Dot) Kalb, Dolores Schiltz, and James (Teresa) Schiltz.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to be given to St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, The University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Liz’s family would like to thank Dr. Cao, Dr. Putz, the staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics and the staff at Bethany Home, especially the memory care unit, for their care of Liz.

Cyril B. Thiltgen

Cyril B. “Cy” Thiltgen, 93, of Dubuque, peacefully ended his earthly journey Saturday, December 10, 2022, surrounded by his five children.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Cy will be 10:00 am Thursday, December 15, 2022, at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Cy made his debut November 25, 1929, in Menominee, IL, the youngest son of Bernard and Philomena Tranel Thiltgen. Like many families in those days, Cy lost a brother, Norbert, at a young age due to illness. He lost another brother, Walter, while serving in the Army during WWII.

Cy also served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After recieving his Honorable Discharge, he returned home. Not long after his return, he met the love of his life, Jeanne Anne Eigenberger, on the dance floors of Dubuque. They soon married on September on September 8, 1956.

The couple raised five children, Steve Thiltgen (Sue), Jim Thiltgen (Julie, children John and Cali), Linda Larson (Mike, children Jessica, Eric, and Holly), Tom Thiltgen (Jackie, children, Morgan, Travis, and Austin), and Danny Thiltgen (Contessa, children, Devin, Raiven, and Meriyah).

Through the years, Cy worked at Farley & Loetscher, the Dubuque Packing House, and John Deere Dubuque Works, where he spent most of his working career. After his retirement from John Deere in 1992, Cy began a second career as a volunteer at Finley Hospital delivering mail, in-house correspondence, and office supplies to hospital staff.

In his 17 years as a Finley volunteer, Cy never missed a day of work, leading to hospital staff saying “you can rely on Cy”. An article in the Telegraph Herald pointed out Cy had logged over 5,000 volunteer hours at Finley, over 2,000 more than any volunteer at that time. In the same article, Finley’s Volunteer Coordinator Rosie Timmerman said, “This man is so steady it is unbelievable.  I’ve been here 16 years and he’s here every week.  He just quietly goes about his business.  He’s the type of volunteer we would love to clone.”

Following the death of his beloved Jeanne to illness, Cy married Colleen Miller Timmerman in January of 1997. Cy and Colleen enjoyed traveling, spending time with both of their families, and playing euchre.

In addition to his five children and their spouses, he is survived by five Timmerman stepchildren, Bob (Bobbie), Dan (Ruth), Jim (Barb), Randy (Tina), and Mike (Dori Ann), a sister-in-law, Lucille, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren from both his Thiltgen and Timmerman families.

Besides his wives, Jeanne and Colleen, and his brothers, Norbert and Walter, he was preceded in death by a sister, Alvina, and brothers, Wilbert (Lavita), Ozzie, and Vincent (Laverne).

Cy’s family would like to express their gratitude to the aides, housekeeping, and kitchen staff at Eagle Point Place, who always provided smiling faces and helping hands, along with the Care Initiative Hospice team of Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Care Initiative Hospice of Manchester.

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

Merlin W. Timmerman

Merlin W. “Mud” Timmerman, 87, of rural Galena, passed away on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at his home surrounded by family.  Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Thursday, December 15, 2022 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Hazel Green, WI.  Family will greet friends 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, additional visitation will begin at 10:00 am Thursday at the church prior to Mass.  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Vinegar Hill Cemetery in rural Galena with Military Honors.

Merlin was born April 8, 1935 in Dickeyville, Wisconsin, the son of Neil and Viola (Flogel) Timmerman.  He graduated from Loras Academy and then served his country in the US Army, serving two years in Germany.  He married Carol Schwendinger on February 2, 1963 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque.  Merlin was a cheese maker, milk hauler, carpenter, but most important he was a lifetime dairy farmer and loving, husband, father, and grandfather.  He enjoyed nature, trapping, fishing, hunting, and using his bulldozer.

Merlin was most proud of his family and his never-ending love for them.  He had a deep passion for agriculture and feeding the world.  He served on numerous boards and committees, was active in countless clubs and was a true steward of the land.  Most of all he cultivated this dedication for agriculture in his family for generations to come.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; their children, Joyce Furlong, Monica (Michael) Hoppman, Diane (James) Morgan, Jane (Dennis) Steffes, Neil (Jodi) Timmerman, Nick (Jessica) Timmerman, Ben (Carrie Grundhoefer) Timmerman, and Carrie (Kevin) Ward; 17 grandchildren, Nathan (Alisha), Niles (Tiffany), and Nakita Furlong, Lucas (Mackenzie), Michele (fiancé’ Michael Middendorf), and Bradley Hoppman, Justin and Anne Runde, Darcy (Austin) Ertmer, Kurt Timmerman, Karly (R.J.) Hess, Kasey and Kade Timmerman, Blaine Timmerman, Sutton Meusel, Brayden and Logan Ward; 8 great-grandchildren, Mackenzie, Mea, Alayna, Sawyer, and Dayton Furlong, Jacob Kane, Kinsley and Wylie Middendorf, and one on the way this December; siblings, Roman, Carl (Kay), and Ronald (Summer) Timmerman, and a brother in-law, Robert (Joan) Valentine; and numerous extended relatives.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Elizabeth Gerhards; father and mother in-law, Paul and Eleanor Schwendinger; sons in-law, Mark Furlong and Brian Runde; siblings, Leonard (Ruth), Frank (Darlene) Timmerman, Rozita Valentine; and a sister in-law, Cecelia Timmerman.

The family wished to thank Dr. Mary Koenigs for her compassionate care. 

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

Norma J. Doherty Hocking

Norma Jean Doherty Hocking of Galena, IL passed away peacefully on December 9, 2022, with her family by her side. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Friday, December 16, 2022, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM, until the time of mass. The burial of the cremated remains will follow in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born July 13, 1938, in Dubuque, IA. Norma attended school at St. Joseph Academy, Dubuque.  She met William “Bill” Hocking when she was 13 years old and they were married on October 22, 1955, at the Holy Ghost Church, Dubuque, and celebrated 67 years of marriage this October before Bill’s passing on October 28.  Norma spent several years in the Galena School System as a certified Special Education Aid.

She was most proud of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Norma enjoyed traveling, gardening, and her water aerobics group. She deeply loved her children, Mike (Cheri) Hocking of Keosauqua, IA, Rick (Mary) Hocking of Galena, Kathy (Lauren) Hocking of Oviedo, FL, Pat (Melissa) Hocking of Lisbon, IA and Jeanna (Chris) Gunning of Ashland, KY, nine grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, two sisters, Barbara (Peter) Harris, and Patricia Fry, and a brother,  Jaime Von Ah Doherty.

She was preceded in her death by her parents, Norbert and Bernice (Von Ah) Doherty, and her husband.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Finley Hospital.

In lieu of flowers, please send any monetary gifts to Norma Hocking which will be donated to the Galena EMS, or to Norma’s brother Jaime who serves as a missionary in Peru.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Nancy J. Pechous

Nancy Joanne Pechous, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully while surrounded by members of her family at Stonehill Health Center on Wednesday, December 7th, 2022.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 at St. Raphael Cathedral.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 14th, 2022 at St. Raphael Cathedral with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating. Entombment will follow in St. Joseph Chapel Mausoleum at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Nancy was the seventh of ten children born to Herbert and Marguerite (Turner) Saunders on February 8th, 1931 in Sterling, Illinois. She met her husband, Paul, on a blind date while attending Marycrest College in Davenport, Iowa. They married June 25th, 1955 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sterling, Illinois. Nancy and Paul celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary this year. After graduation they moved to Iowa City where Nancy taught elementary school, while Paul attended medical school. After Iowa City, they moved to New Orleans, then Chicago, and back to New Orleans before settling in Dubuque in 1967.

Nancy loved nothing more than spending time with her family. She felt the best job in the world was caring for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Nancy’s Catholic faith was very important to her. She was an active member of St. Raphael’s. She also found time to volunteer at several charitable organizations, including the Mercy Service Club, Catholic Mothers Club, and others. Nancy was a Dame of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Nancy and Paul also loved to travel. Some of their favorite trips included the Holy Land, Japan, Thailand, and Europe. They also traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada. For nearly 20 years they wintered at their condo in Naples, Florida.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Paul; her 6 children, Bryan (Krynn) of Dubuque, Iowa; Stephen of Las Vegas, Nevada; Carol (Edward) of Iowa City, Iowa; John of Dubuque, Iowa; Robert (Sandy) of Indio, California; and Annette (David) of Dubuque, Iowa; her brother Bill; brothers-in-law Jerry and Tom; and her sisters-in-law Margaret, Marilyn and Mary.

Nancy is also the proud grandmother of twelve grandchildren, Christina (Rick), Paul (Sarah), Creighton (Sarah), Alexander (Calla), Devin (Brett), Bianca, Briana (deceased), Melina, Karina, George, Charlie, Elena and nine great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations can be made to Dubuque County Right to Life or the Dubuque County Library.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Karen from Home Instead for her wonderful, personal care of our mom.

Keith R. Meyer

Keith R. Meyer, age 46, of Dubuque, passed away at 3:40 p.m., on Monday, December 5, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  To honor Keith’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Monday, December 12, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m., on Monday at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery following cremation.

Keith was born on July 22, 1976, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Jerome and Anita (Kubitz) Meyer Sr.

Keith attended Holy Ghost Grade School and graduated from Wahlert High School, Class of 1994.  He went on to graduate from the University of Iowa in 1998 with a B.A. in English.  He was a hard worker beginning with the Cedar Rapids Gazette, Telegraph Herald and the Diamond Jo Casino.  He was extremely creative, always writing and drawing, even taking a year off to work on his own book.  Following his year-off he rejoined the workforce with Boyd Gaming, he worked various jobs through Sedona and found a career he very much enjoyed with Duluth Trading Company in Dubuque.  He practiced martial arts and earned his black belt in Karate.  He was fascinated with Japanese/Chinese Folklore and History, Buddhism and Taoism.  Keith loved being around people and was involved with several organizations including Dubuque Pagan Group, SCEA, a Larping Group, the Weezer Fan Club and served on RAGBRAI Support for a few years.  He enjoyed listening to hard rock music, attending live shows, watching comedy and Wes Anderson movies.  Keith also had an introspective side, he meditated regularly and was a very spiritual man.   He was also very interested in holistic and eclectic healing rituals.  Keith was a friend to all and no one ever had an unkind word to say about him.  We are thankful for the tremendous outpouring of love and support from everyone.  Keith was a wonderful human being and will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends!

Those left to cherish Keith’s memory include

his siblings,
Jerome Meyer Jr.,
William Meyer,
Jolene (Emmett) Young, all of Dubuque, IA;

his nieces and nephews,
Jessica and Christopher Young and Jason and Bart Meyer;

and his great-nieces and nephews.

Keith was preceded in death by his parents.

Keith’s family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for their compassionate care.

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

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

Jane E. Becker

Jane Ellen Becker, 73, of Dubuque, passed away December 7, 2022 at home with her husband by her side.

Visitation will be from 3:00-6:00 p.m., Monday, December 12, 2022 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road with a funeral service immediately following at 6:00p.m. Rev. Dianne Grace will officiate. The family will lay Jane to rest Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jane was born on September 16, 1949 to Eldon and Dorothy (Hilvers) Ruddy in Dubuque. She was united in marriage to Michael J. Becker on November 4, 1972.

Jane retired from Job Services of Iowa where she was employed for over 45 years.

She loved spending time outdoors whether it was being an avid gardener, walking, or reading.

Jane cherished time spent with family, especially her grandchildren. She loved spoiling the grandkids and attending their sporting and school events whenever possible.

Jane was a liver transplant recipient for over 26 years and a breast cancer survivor for over 10 years.

Jane is survived by her husband of 50 years; children, Michelle (Charles) Tucker of Dubuque, and Lisa (Kristopher) Mercer of Kingsland, Georgia; grandchildren, Samantha Lange, Jonathin, Kaylee, and Elaina Tucker, and Collin Mercer. She is also survived by her siblings; Stephen Ruddy and Jeanne (John) Schneider; and in-laws, Gary (Mary) Dura.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents; mother and father in-law, Rita and Whitey (Elmer) Dura; and several other extended family members.

Jane’s family wishes to extend a most heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Home Instead, especially Carol and Lori, and to all that have helped and cared for Jane. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested for memorials to be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Home Instead.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Virginia Cunningham Gordon

Virginia Cunningham Gordon, 91, died peacefully at home with her children attending.

She was born June 15, 1931 to Ray and Ethel Cunningham of Ames, Iowa. She graduated from Iowa State University in June of 1953 with a BS in Home Economics Education. It was there that she met her husband, Gene Gordon from Dubuque. They married December 19, 1952 and eventually settled in Dubuque where Gene, an architect, designed and built their home where they raised their five children: Sandra (Haupt), Steven, Michael, Douglas, and Mark. Ginny was very involved in her children’s activities. She was a Girl Scouts leader and a den mother in Boy Scouts. All the Gordon children were swimmers and Ginny received an award from the YMCA swim team for her 19 years as a parent volunteer. She was the PTA president for Bryant Elementary, Washington Jr HS, and Senior HS. She laid a spiritual foundation for her children at Westminster Presbyterian Church where she taught Sunday School for 20 years. She was also active in the church as an elder, a deacon, trained Stephen’s Minister and children’s tutor. In her later years she served on the Church’s building and grounds committee and she coordinated the funeral receptions at the church.

Ginny was a natural leader. She knew how to organize people and how to run a meeting with efficiency and grace. She was the president of every community organization in which she participated: PEO, The Sunshine Circle, The United Way, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), Friendship Force, and the Head Injury Support Group.

Ginny was proud of her work with the Symphony helping children see concerts with the implementation of Art Trek. Her work with the United Way was satisfying as she helped to identify the needs within the city and shape the conversations about how best to meet those needs. Ginny showed her love through acts of service. She was a hard worker and would do anything to help a friend or family member.

Ginny learned to downhill ski during her honeymoon with Gene, at Winter Park. Ginny and Gene taught their kids to ski down the front yard almost as soon as they were able to walk. In the early 70’s Gene had a vision to start a ski area outside of Dubuque and in 1973, Sundown Ski area had its opening season. During the construction, Ginny wasn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves and get the work done. She’d throw rocks off the slopes, paint or stain anything that needed painting, cook food for the volunteer work crew that helped build the first lodge and on and on.

Gene and Ginny revived their stellar construction teamwork in 1979, when their cabin in Minnesota burned down. The following summer, Gene redesigned the cabin and Ginny, three of her sons, and their friends rebuilt the cabin. “Pick up your feet, we’ve got a deadline to meet,” she’d say.

She was not all work though. She believed that it was also important to have some fun along the way. She enjoyed reading, playing bridge, tennis, skiing, knitting hats for babies and blankets for veterans, picking blueberries, gardening, biking through the Minnesota forests, canoeing, fishing, watching sports on TV, and dancing. Ginny and Gene enjoyed traveling with the Friendship Force as well as hosting people from other countries—Guatemala, Sweden, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Russia, Germany, Ukraine, Japan, Bahamas, Philippines. She loved her dogs too. Ginny was kind, decisive, hardworking, giving, welcoming, and fun loving.

She will be missed. Her wisdom that she’d impart to family as we’d part: “Be Kind, be good, and do all the things you know you should.” In lieu of flowers please make donations to Westminster Presbyterian Church or the charity of your choice.

The visitation will be at 10:00 am, the service at 11:00 am and the reception lunch at noon all held at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dubuque on Thursday June, 15, 2023.

Ginny is preceded in death by her husband Gene and is survived by her children, Sandra (Haupt), Steven, Michael, Douglas and Mark; her grandchildren, Hans, Heather, Sara, Ben, Cody, Troy, Amy, Peter, Laura, Tanner, Finlay, and Willem; and her great grandchildren, Hazel, Mark, Vincent and James.

Visit Ginny’s obituary at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com, where you can view Ginny’s life in pictures.

Guy A. Gard Jr.

Guy Allen Gard Jr, 24, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on December 2nd, 2022 due to heart complications.

Visitation from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 12th, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush Street Dubuque, IA.

A Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 13th, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, with Fr. Thomas McDermott and Fr. David Schatz officiating. A private entombment will be held at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

Guy Jr. was born on February 14th, 1998, to Guy Sr. and Kelly Gard in Dubuque, IA. While at Senior High School he participated in football, baseball, and track. He graduated from Senior High School in 2016 with honors, and was a member of the National Honors Society.

He went on to study Business in Management Information Systems at Iowa State University. Guy Jr. started his first job at Staples as tech. support and sales associate in 2018. He then furthered his career in information technical support in 2020 at Westmark Enterprises, and then was promoted to applications administrator.

He was a loving, compassionate, fun, and exploratory person with a magnetic personality, and had a skill for bringing people together. He was always eager to debate and question; he had a desire to understand and explore every avenue.

His hobbies included gaming, building his own computers, golfing, reading, vacationing, playing (and normally beating) his friends & family at chess, and spending time with family & his many friends.

He was a loving son and brother with a dear group of friends that he treasured like family. He will be remembered for his positive outlook, genuine smile, and love for everyone. He will be truly missed.

Guy Jr. is survived by his father, Guy Sr, mother, Kelly Gard, his grandfather Keith Phillips (Marsha) of New Boston, IL, three brothers; Gregg (Beverly) Gard of La Qunta, CA, Jeff (Krystle) Gard of Portland, OR, Paul Gard (Addy) of Dubuque, IA, three nephews; Kai, Byron, and Everest of Portland, OR, Uncles and Aunts; Gary Gard of Omaha, NE, Barb Gard of Lincoln NE, Jamie Schultz of Peoria, AZ, Kathy Wolfa of Fernadina Beach, FL, Kim and John Shafer of Moline, IL, Karen and Tim Menage of Rock Island, IL, Brandy and Jamie Whipple of Colona, IL, and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Joseph and Lyola Gard, grandmother, Shirley Phillips, and Aunt and Uncle, Joseph R Gard, and Glenann (Gard) Schultz.

In lieu of flowers there has been a Guy Gard Jr. memorial fund established.

Wayne N. Waller

Wayne Norman Waller, 91, of La Motte, passed away at MercyOne Medical Center on Sunday, December 04, 2022.

According to Wayne’s wishes no public visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA assisted the family.

Wayne was born on September 16, 1931, in Dubuque, the son of Roy and Bertha “Bird” (Hartman) Waller. He Married Annette P. (Osterkamp) Waller on November 15, 1956, at Zwingle Church in Zwingle, Iowa and shared 67 years together.

Wayne grew up in Dubuque on the family farm and moved to La Motte to his own farm with his wife Annette where they had dairy cows, elk, and deer, along with other animals throughout their years. Wayne loved to go fishing for catfish, working on the farm, watching bull riding, mushroom hunting, trying his luck with pull tabs while his wife shopped, coon hunting, and eating ice cream.

Wayne was a loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and brother. He loved spending time with his family and helping anyone in need. He also loved telling stories and jokes to make people smile. Wayne was full of wisdom and always shared his knowledge with others (i.e., life is never easy, you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make them drink, etc.)

He is survived by his wife, Annette; son, Tim (Karen) Waller; daughter, Amy (Stan) Pfeiler; daughter-in-law, Karen (Tim) Waller; son-in-law, Stan (Amy) Pfeiler;  grandchildren, Codey Waller, Shania (Peterson) Kinywa, and Sierra Waller; grandson-in-law Peterson (Shania) Wambuu; great-grandchild, Wayne Kinywa; brother-in-law, Jimmy Osterkamp; sister-in-laws, Alberta Waller, Connie Waller, Audrey Waller, Alice Osterkamp, Joyce Osterkamp, Patrica Osterkamp, and Joan Waller; along with many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Ethel Mae and Wanda (his twin), both in infancy, and Sylvia (Mathew) Osterkamp, and Mildred (Fred) Neumeister; and brothers, Clarence, Eldon, Robert, Clifford, David and Raymond; brother-in-laws, Fred (Mildred) Neumeister, Matthew (Sylvia) Osterkamp, Jack (Loretta) Watters, Albert (Alice) Osterkamp, Billy (Joyce) Osterkamp, Carl Osterkamp, Harry Osterkamp, Herman Gansemer; sister-in-laws, Jennie (Clifford) Waller and Irene (Eldon) Waller.

The family would like to thank Mercy Hospital staff and Hospice of Dubuque for taking care of Wayne until his passing; La Motte and Key West fire and rescue for assisting Wayne in his time of need, Leonard funeral home for their services, and family/friends who have taken the time to call and visit.

Grace Herbst

Our beloved mother, Grace “Joan” Herbst, 99, of Huntsville, Alabama, formerly of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2022.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until a 6:30 pm prayer service, Sunday, December 11, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Grace Joan will be 10:00 am Monday, December 12, 2022, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert and Father Lyle Wilgenbusch as the Celebrants. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Joan was born October 22, 1923, the daughter of Grace and Patrick McAleavy. She was 100% Irish. She was raised in Fernandina Beach, FL on Amelia Island where she graduated from St. Joseph Academy in 1941.  She left home when she was 23 to attend The Julliard School of Music in New York City studying piano and then returned to Jacksonville, FL to work as a secretary before accepting a job with the State Department overseas from 1947-1955 serving in Ankara (Turkey), Paris, Vienna, and Washington DC.

She met her husband in Vienna. She married Lieutenant Colonel Kenneth J. Herbst on May 28, 1955 in Linz, Austria.  Thereafter, they resided in Munich (Germany), Baltimore and Frankfurt (Germany).  They retired from Army life in 1962 and moved to Dubuque, where her husband took a dean and teaching job at Wahlert Catholic High School, and they raised their 4 children – Anne, Mike, Patty and Danny.

After Joan’s husband passed away in June of 1985, she moved to Washington, DC to be personal secretary to Iowa Congressman Tom Tauke for 3 years.  Eventually, she returned to her childhood home where she enjoyed her hometown roots and renewing friendships with old friends.  As she aged, she moved to Jacksonville to be near to her daughter and in 2019, Joan moved to Huntsville, AL, where her oldest son resides.  She remained a formidable bridge player, read the Wall Street Journal weekly and did crossword puzzles until shortly before her death.

Grace Joan will be remembered for so many things that made her very special to so many.  She was a classical pianist and practiced her art daily.  Joan was a sensational cook raising her children on exotic recipes from her travels and she taught all of her adult children to make the best Manhattan ever!  She entertained with a flare, filling her teacups with fresh flowers from her garden and setting a beautiful table.  She will always be remembered for making her famous fudge, a tradition she passed on to her children and grands.  The grands loved her to play Frosty the Snowman while they danced around her coffee table and for always sticking a piece of Wrigley’s gum in her notes to them.  She created and patented a game for them called Grandma’s Treasure Hunt.  Her children have fond memories of mom at the piano and dad leading us in song while playing Irish and Military tunes. Her devotion to the Blessed Mother and fervent belief in the right to life of the unborn guided her life choices.  She was loving, kind, outspoken and a grand and classy lady.

She will be greatly missed by those she leaves behind: four children – Anne Bohle (Dan) of Dubuque, Michael Herbst (Vickie) of Huntsville AL, Patty Connolly (Mike) of Jacksonville, FL and Dan Herbst (Sandy) of Landenberg, PA.  She has 12 grandchildren to whom she was so special – Erin Milburn (Mason), Crista Weber (Keith), Nicholas Bohle (Namea), Will Bohle, Caitlin Lozano (Damien), Jacob Herbst (Monique), Amelia Herbst and Savannah Herbst (engaged to Levi), Jim Cooper (Alissa), Kelly Harper (Trey), Leslie Fisette (Jonathan) and Audre Bautista (Gene). She was lovingly known as Grandma Joanie to all 26 of her great grands.

Grace Joan was preceded in death by her parents, her youngest brother John and her sister Pat.

Our families will gather on our beloved beach, Amelia Island, next summer, as we have done for more than 30 years, to celebrate the legacy and love that Joan started.

Rest in peace our precious mother and grandmother – in the loving embrace of our dad and in the silent and brilliant mystery you trusted in for 99 years – God.

Memorials may be given to Dubuque County Right to Life or the Maria House in Dubuque.

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