Obituaries Archive

Jean L. Ambrosy

Jean L. “Jeanie” Ambrosy, 70, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at ProMedica Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Jeanie’s life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, August 29, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:30 p.m Prayer Service will be held.  Cremation will follow the visitation.

Jean Lois Tebben was born on May 10, 1952 in Bellevue, Iowa, to Lyle “Don” and Vona M. (Ripple) Tebben.  She grew up on a farm five miles north of Andrew and graduated from Andrew High School in 1970.  She then attended and graduated from Business school in Davenport in 1972.  She married Roger L. Ambrosy on October 12, 1973 in Andrew, Iowa.  They had two children, Angela and Aaron.

Jeanie worked in the Treasurer’s Office at the Jackson County Courthouse in Maquoketa, retiring in 2019.

She was a member of the Andrew AMVETS Post #62 Ladies Auxiliary.  She was an avid reader and a friend and protector of all birds and cats. Jeanie also enjoyed watching the Hawkeyes and Cubs with Roger.  She loved green olives, butter brickle, and Ruffles potato chips dipped in ice cream. Jeanie loved car rides on country roads with Roger and stopping by the family farm to do chores, say hi to the calves and oversee Roger while he completed the day’s tasks.  Her utmost joy, though, came from time spent with grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Roger Ambrosy of Andrew, IA; children, Angie (John) Staber of Davenport, IA, and Aaron (Danielle) Ambrosy of Otter Creek, IA; 4 grandchildren, Aubrey and Ezra Staber, and Addison and Connor Ambrosy; and a brother-in-law, Albert “Junior” Wiegert, Jr. of Maquoketa, IA; and her cat, Tom  She was preceded in death by her parents, and a sister Judy Kay Wiegert.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Jean L. “Jeanie” Ambrosy memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to give a special thank you for the compassionate care given by the 5th Floor Nursing Staff at Finley Hospital and all the staff of ProMedica Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque.

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

Norma J. Swift

Norma “Peggy” Jean (Bryant) Swift, 94 of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 22nd at Stonehill Health Center. Peggy was born on August 24th, 1927, in Clemons, Iowa, daughter of Raymond and Elisa (Helmke) Bryant. To honor Peggy’s life visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 28, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 29, 2022, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael, 231 Bluff Street, with Rev. Dennis J. Quint.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery Mausoleum.

She was born into the Congregational Christian faith, but throughout her childhood and young adolescent years, was intrigued by the Catholic teachings so shortly after graduating from Clemons High School in 1945, she started her religious training and converted to the Roman Catholic Church. She was joined in marriage to Gerald Swift on May 1, 1948, at St. Mary’s Church in Marshalltown, Iowa. Together they raised nine children and celebrated 68 years of marriage.

Peggy’s children were her priority, so it was not until her youngest child started grade school that she entered the workforce by accepting a position at Table Mound School. Later she would work at Dubuque Senior High School, resigning from Hempstead High School in 1997. Shortly after resigning from the Dubuque Community Schools, she went to work for the Archdiocese of Dubuque as the Director of Religious Education for St. Raphael Cathedral. She also fulfilled the role of Confirmation Coordinator at St. Francis / Sts. Peter & Paul in Sherrill, Iowa. She retired as the Director of Religious Education from Holy Ghost parish in Dubuque, Iowa in May of 2007.

While raising her children, Peggy was very involved in the community and volunteered much of her time with her children’s school and extracurricular activities; she was a member of Table Mound School PTA, a Den Mother for Boy Scout Troop 69, taught religious education at Cathedral of St. Raphael and traveled with the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps for many years. In 2019, she was selected to be a member of the Colts Hall of Fame in honor of her years of service and dedication to the organization.

Along with her late husband Jerry, she was a member of Christian Family Movement (CFM). Despite already having a house full of children, they generously opened their home to foster children and were also involved with the Dubuque Operation Friendship organization which unified various ethnic backgrounds in the Dubuque Community. To supplement her role as a Director of Religious Education, Peggy furthered her education by attending Loras College and completed courses in theology and scripture studies. Peggy was also a volunteer for the Dubuque Serra Club, an organization that promotes vocations within the Catholic Church.

Surviving are her children; John Swift (Janine) of Davenport, IA, Thomas Swift (Carol Copeland) of Dubuque, IA, Patrick Swift (Sandra) of Leavenworth, KS, Charles Swift (Debra) of Dubuque, IA, Mary Powers (Jay) of East Dubuque, IL, Sara Morrison (Dennis) of Farley, IA, and David Swift (Pam Jentz) of Dubuque, IA; a daughter-in-law Kim Swift, Sierra Vista, AZ; fourteen grandchildren, Charles Swift, Thomas Swift, Steven (Susan) Swift, Jamison (Stephanie) Swift, Michelle (fiancé Rafael “Ralph” Ramirez) Swift, Melissa (Jon) Lyon, Emily Powers, Jacob Powers, Christopher Kramer, Jessica Kramer, Janelle (Wyatt) Ungs, Maria Morrison (Grant Kramer), Nolan Morrison, and Andrew Swift; 9 great grandchildren and many step-grandchildren; and two nieces C. Jeanne Peters and Catherine Callies.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Richard Bryant; her father-in-law, Claude Swift; her mother-in-law, Elizabeth (Hora) Swift; a sister-in-law, Evelyn Pike; a brother-in-law, Rev. Robert Swift; a son Michael Swift (Kim); a daughter, Angela Kramer; a son-in-law, Steven Kramer; and her husband, Gerald on August 31, 2016.

A heart-felt thank you to Andrea Ramirez of Stonehill Health Center for her care and compassion of Peggy and to Hospice of Dubuque.

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

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

Patricia J. Kinsella

Patricia Jane Kinsella, 90, who resided at Bethany Home in Dubuque, Iowa, was born to eternal life and was reunited with her husband on August 23^rd, 2022.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 27th, 2022, at St. Columbkille’s Church in Dubuque, with Father Tom McDermott officiating. Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at St. Columbkille’s Church on Saturday. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Patricia was born on July 10th, 1932, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, daughter of Leo and Gertrude (Bazinette) Pink. She was a graduate of Lancaster High School and Clarke College (University). She was united in marriage to William J. Kinsella on July 9th, 1955, at St. Clement Church in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Together, they were blessed with five children.

She was a caring teacher, skilled seamstress, master gardener and loved to cook and bake. She was a member of the Dubuque Quilter’s Guild, as well as numerous other organizations. She was a creative writer and had multiples articles published in Julien’s Journal. Patricia was delighted to also be inducted in the Sure Jell Hall of Fame in New York City in recognition of her jam making skills. She was also an activity coordinator for 26 years at Enoble Manor in Dubuque.

She had a magical touch of encouragement and support to all those in her life. She graciously shared her numerous gifts and talents with others throughout her adventures in life.

Patricia is survived by her children, Joanne (Dr. James) Bramson, Jane Kinsella, Michael Kinsella, Patrick (Kay) Kinsella, Mary (Rick Sunderman) Hamlin Sunderman. Her surviving grandchildren are Adam (Brooke) Bramson, Matt (Megan) Bramson, Lauren Bramson (AJ) O’Reilly, Holly Sunderman, Michelle Sunderman, Paul Hamlin and Mary Grace Hamlin, and six great grandchildren. Her sisters Sister Marie Elizabeth Pink, OSF, and Teresa Przybylski, sister-in-law, Betty Reuter, and many nieces and nephews also survive her.

Her husband William, son-in-law, Joseph Hamlin, sister Margaret (Donald) Bartels, brother-in-law Clem Reuter, and sister-in-law Janice Heister preceded her in death.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they provided.

Stephen Gulyash

Stephen Gulyash, 76, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, August 25, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Steve will be 1:00 pm Friday, August 26, 2022, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Stephen was born June 22, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Stephen and Julia Abitz Gulyash. On November 30, 1968, he married Theresa A. Besler at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.

He was a 1964 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War from November 9, 1965 until August 30, 1967.

Steve was a supervisor for John Deere Dubuque Works for 37 years, retiring in 2001.

He was an active member of St. Anthony Catholic Church and former member of the Knights of Columbus. He did prison ministry and mentoring. He enjoyed golfing and seemed to always be doing yard work.

Survivors include his wife, Theresa; two sons, Tony (Cindy) Gulyash of Maplewood, MN, and Tim Gulyash of Winthrop, IA; three grandchildren, Brett Gulyash, Josie Gulyash, and Lance Gulyash; two brothers, Jim (Anita) Gulyash and Jay (Barbara) Gulyash, both of Dubuque; two sisters, Rita Reicher and Mary Weidemann, both of Dubuque; one sister-in-law, Deanna Gulyash of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Ronald Gulyash, one sister, Virginia Stoffel, and three brothers-in-law, Richard Stoffel, Wayne Reicher, Don Weidemann and one nephew Scott Gulyash.

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

James J. Goetz

James J. “Jim” Goetz, 90, of Dubuque, died Sunday, August 21, 2022, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque. A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Thursday, August 25, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be 10:00 am Friday, August 26, 2022, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Cedar Rapids.

James was born September 1, 1931, in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Frank J. and Dorothy M. (Tritz) Goetz. On July 7, 1962, he married Patricia C. “Pat” Connell in Cedar Rapids. She died February 22, 2020. He was a 1950 graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Bellevue. He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving from 1952 until 1954. Jim was a toll technician for U.S. West for over 38 years. He was an active member of the Communication Workers of America Local 7110 and served as a Chief Steward in Local 7110 for several years. He served on the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps Board of Directors from 1977-1980 and organized the Colts Bingo Tent at the Dubuque County Fair from 1977-1980. He was a past member of the Knights of Columbus. After retirement from US West, he was a member of Telephone Pioneers Volunteer Network participating on several committees and projects. He loved NASCAR. He was a big game player, including poker at the casino, euchre, dominoes, and cribbage. Family was very important to Jim.

Survivors include five children, Jim (Kelly) Goetz of Plattsmouth, NE, Sheila (Kevin) Butler of Dubuque, Joe (Kris) Goetz of Monticello, IA, John (Debbie) Goetz of Nevada, IA, and Jerry (Della) Goetz of Peosta, IA; eight grandchildren, Nick, Jesse, Marissa, Jamie, Adam, Jacob, Katie, Jason Goetz, and Jason (Melissa) Burke; six great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Sr. Mary Charleta (Delores) Goetz FSPA, Sr. Mary Cecilienne (Florence) Goetz FSPA, Arnold (Jeanne Callahan) Goetz, and  Mary (W. Michael) Reuter.

A memorial has been established for the Hawkeye Care Center Activity Fund.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa, for taking special care of Jim.

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

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

Richard J. Lehnhardt

Richard J. “Dick” Lehnhardt, Sr., 74, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 21, 2022, at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, August 26, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a sharing service will be held at 6:00 p.m.

Dick was born on August 17, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Kenneth and Iola (Stuart) Lehnhardt.

He worked as a custodian for Dubuque Community Schools and in maintenance at Carpet Depot.

Dick loved Dubuque it was in his blood; he was a lifelong Dubuquer. From his perch at the top of the hill, Dick could tell you the height of the river to the inch, which trains were coming through the area by their whistles, and how many Saints players were currently at the rink practicing. He was an avid Dubuque Fighting Saints fan and was a season ticket holder; he was also a member of the NRA.  But most of all Dick was proud of his kids and grandkids, he loved watching his grandkids was involved in their activities.

He is survived by his sons Richard “Rich” Lehnhardt, Jr, and Matthew “Matt” (Jenny) Lehnhardt; his daughter Jessica (Jesse) Kozloski. His sister Barb (Barney) Bishop and sister-in-law Carol Lehnhardt. Grandchildren Olivia, Aiden, Ian, Chloe, Jace, Hailey, Annie, Naomi, and Reese.  A niece Lynn (Ed) Glaser and nephews Doug (Michelle) Bishop and Steve Lehnhardt along with a great-niece Shannon Lehnhardt. 

Dick was preceded in death by his parents Kenny and Iola Lehnhardt, a brother Bob Lehnhardt, Sr., his nephew Bob Lehnhardt, Jr. and great-niece Brittany (Lehnhardt) Gaylord.

Memorials may be directed to Dubuque Youth Hockey in Dick’s memory.

The family would like to thank Dr. Zhengjin Cao, nurses Kim, Marna, and Anna along with all who helped our Dad at Finley Hospital. 

Patricia A. Feldman

Patricia A. “Pat” (Israel) Feldman, age 83, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:55 a.m., on Monday, August 22, 2022, at Luther Manor, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Pat’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Saturday, August 27, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, at Behr Funeral Home with Claudia Dorsch officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Pat was born on June 27, 1939, in Dallas, Iowa, daughter of George O. and Doris Mae (Nicholsen) Israel.

Pat graduated from Newton High School, Class of 1957.  She was a hard working woman who was employed in the cafeteria at Mercy Hospital for 22 years, until her retirement in 2002.  Pat was united in marriage to William Hansen and they were blessed with 5 children together before parting ways.  She would later find love again and marry William Feldman.  Unfortunately Bill passed away on July 7, 2007.  When Pat had some free time she enjoyed going to Bingo, working on puzzles and working out in the pool at Stonehill.  Pat also liked to spend time in the kitchen whipping up delicious recipes.  Spending time with the kids and grandkids was definitely what brought Pat the greatest joy.  We are truly heartbroken at losing our wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma and sister.  Pat will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

her children,
William “Lane” (Sue) Hansen, Iowa City, IA,
Doris (Randy) Johnson, Marshalltown, IA,
Michelle (Randy) Post, Dubuque, IA,
David (Arlene) Hansen, Mason City, IA
and Julie (Dan) Hildebrand, Hopkinton, IA;

her 14 grandchildren;

her 25 great-grandchildren;

and her siblings,
Rick (Mary) Israel, KY,
Deloris Peterson, Newton, IA
and Phyllis Probasco, Des Moines, IA.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother, Pearl “Copper” Israel; a sister, Carolyn (Dale) Brenneman; a brother, Jack Israel; 2 brothers-in-law, Tom Probasco and Gary Peterson; and her best friend, Carol.

Pat’s family would like to thank everyone at St. Peter Lutheran Church, especially Darlene and Jim, Alverno Apartments, Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the love and support you have provided for Pat and the entire family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Pat Feldman Family.

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

Phyllis J. Bergfeld

Phyllis Jeanette (Duehr) Bergfeld, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away August 21st, 2022, at Stonehill Health Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday August 26th, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque, Iowa with Father Steve Garner officiating. Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Friday August 26th, 2022, at the church until time of mass. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Phyllis was born on January 12th, 1932, in Bankston, Iowa, daughter of Edward and Christina (Potts) Duehr. She attended school until the 8th grade. In her younger years she worked at A.Y. McDonald polishing brass. She then worked hard on the family farm and helped care for others at the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA). She was a member of the Dubuque Postcard Club and Dubuque’s Mother’s Club.

Our mother never had a bad word to say about anyone. She always looked for the best outcome in any situation and she thoroughly enjoyed life to the fullest. She was the best mom and grandma to her family. At Stonehill, she loved playing euchre and bingo, doing crafts, getting her nails done on Fridays, and whatever activities happened to be going on that day. She found joy in visiting the chickens outside. Anyone that came to visit her left with her positivity and some jellybeans.

Phyllis is survived by her children Colleen (Robert) Rogers, Darrell (Roni) Bergfeld, and Connie (Michael) Heeren, grandchildren Tressa (Kaeri), Tiffany, April, Austin (Brenna), Tanner and Natasha (Sam), step-grandchildren Rob (Kerry), Stacey (Mel), Eric, Teresa, and many great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Christina, siblings Doris Anthony and Donald Duehr, brothers-in-law Jack Anthony and Roger Fangman, and step grandson Matthew Kelley.

Thank you to Stonehill Health Center, UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Erma J. Yarolem

Erma J. Yarolem, 80, of Wyoming, Iowa, and formerly of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, August 21, 2022, at home.

A celebration of Erma’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, August 26, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Canton, Iowa Cemetery.

Erma Joyce Black was born on January 24, 1942 in St. Ignace, Michigan to Floyd and Ubalda Belle (Rabineau) Black.  She grew up in Michigan and Wisconsin.  She married Marvin C. Yarolem Sr. on October 27, 1962 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Juliee, Louise, and Marvin III.

Erma had worked several jobs throughout her life including working at Clinton Engines, Collis in Clinton, WADY Industries, and lastly as a school bus driver for the Midland Community School District.  She had moved to Farmington in 2003 and to Wyoming in May of this year.

Erma enjoyed horses, mushrooming, camping, fishing, ginseng hunting, bowling and the Oakland Raiders.  She had been a stock driver and especially enjoyed spending time with her miniature burros and her dogs, Monster and Bugs.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Juliee (Robert) Yarolem of Monmouth, IA, Louise “Skeater” (Jim) Sams of Hale, IA, and Marvin “Pete” (fiancé Shelly Baxter) Yarolem, III of Hillsboro, IA; a brother, Joe (Phyllis) Black of WI; sister, Ora Eggers of Clinton, IA; 7 grandchildren, Kurtis Finn, Mathew Finn, Sara (fiancé Joshua Bulman) Hollingshead, Lacey (fiancé Earl Brown) Carroll, Brandon (fiancé Ashley Smith) Hefley, Zachary (fiancé Kelsey Mortenson) Schulz and Nickole (Kyle) Clark; and 18 great-grandchildren, Morgan Hollingshead, Isabelle Hollingshead, Alayna Bulman, Brody Bulman, Kenyon Hefley, Ahmaya Hefley, Zakhari Hefley, Maddox Brown, Kashtyn Brown, Alex Smith, Aaron Keller, Amelia Hefley, Caden Schulz, Bailey Schulz, Aubree Schulz, Zyler Clark, Carly Koon, and Oaklynn Clark, and 2 on the way; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, sister Bertha King, brothers Ronald and Richard Black, a son Marvin Jr., a grandson, Tyler Lee Duwa, and a great-granddaughter, Hope Hollingshead.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Erma J. Yarolem memorial fund has been established.

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

Kobe R. Vickerman-Barnes

Kobe R. Vickerman-Barnes, 23, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Saturday, August 20, 2022, along with his girlfriend, Vicki Wendt. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Friday, August 26, 2022, at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City, Wisconsin. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Kobe was born on April 3, 1999, in Platteville, Wisconsin, the son of Theodore Barnes and Heather Vickerman. Kobe worked as a landscaper in Galena, Illinois.

Kobe enjoyed online gaming and time at his computer. Above all, he loved being a father to his daughter, Elliana. She was his world.

Survivors include his daughter, Elliana Vickerman, Dickeyville, WI; his mother, Heather Vickerman, Dickeyville, WI; his father, T. Raynard Barnes, Chicago, IL; his sister, Mekayla Vickerman, Dickeyville, WI; two nephews, Severus and Sirius VanWinkle; and his maternal grandparents, Brenda and Ron Donar, Cuba City.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Alazaya Vickerman; and his paternal grandmother, Delisa Ann Foster.

In lieu of flowers, a Kobe R. Vickerman-Barnes Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Kenneth L. Flack

Kenneth L. Flack 89, of East Dubuque, IL passed away surrounded by his family Friday, August 12, 2022, at Unity Point Finley Hospital, Dubuque, IA.  A celebration of life will be held at Noon, Saturday, September 3, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Kenneth was born August 24, 1932, in Freeport, IL the son of Frank and Geneva (Irwin) Flack. He graduated in 1951 from Hanover High School, Hanover IL. Kenneth was united in marriage to Marilyn Deininger on January 17, 1970, at the Westminster Church, Galena. After their marriage, they resided on a farm in rural East Galena where he loved working the soil, planting, and watching things grow. While residing on the farm the family planted thousands of hardwood and pine trees. In 2006 they retired to a smaller property in East Dubuque. Kenneth has been a member of the Local 150 Operating Engineers since 1960. His job took him from East Dubuque to Chicago, working on many of the area roads and bridges. He also helped with the construction of the East Dubuque Chemical plant, Byron Nuclear plant, and Eily Tower to name a few. His side job was spent in the winters at Chestnut Mountain Resort where he enjoyed the sport of skiing. Ken’s other interests included flying, his love of the skies led to the purchase of three airplanes and the rebuilding of another two. Kenneth also enjoyed hiking in state parks and visiting museums throughout the United States.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and his children; Frank (Keri) Flack, of Rock Island, IL, Michael (Colleen) Flack, of Fruita, CO, and Christine (Ben) Soat, of Menominee, IL. seven grandchildren; Christian, Zachary, Mikayla, Caleb, Conner, Caitlyn and Cullen, his in-laws; Lola Deininger, Faud Deininger, Richard (Alys) Deininger, Charles (Nancy Deininger, Rose (Bob) Harkness, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother and father-in-law, Willis and Alma Deininger, his siblings; Frank Flack Jr., Wayne Flack, Raymond (Jane) Flack, Maxine (Les) Rummer, Jeannette (Myles) Haas, Carol Wilson, in-laws; Lester Deininger, William Deininger and Carolyn Deininger.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Ken’s Medical Staff, Dr. Horchak, Dr. A. Kelley, Dr. Elsey and their staff. We also appreciate all the help that Finley Hospital, The Stonehill Care Community as well as the Menominee Dunleith Fire Department provided for our family.

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

Charles D. Haferbecker Jr.

God called Charles D. “Chaz” Haferbecker Jr., age 58, of Dubuque, home at 3:16 p.m., on Thursday, August 18, 2022, at UnityPoint Health St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.  To celebrate Chaz’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery at a later date following cremation.

Chaz was born on August 19, 1963, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Charles D. and Adelaide J. (Boggild) Haferbecker Sr.

Charlie loved Rock & Roll.  “Hello Dubuque, Iowa”, was what he called out when playing his guitar or rocking out.  Charlie was a damn good Euchre player, played croquet like a boss, and loved to fish.  He loved to watch wrestling and old rock concerts on his TV.  Uncle Charlie was a die hard Vikings (SKOL) fan.  He would always bring something home, carrying it on his power chair, from pop/beer/liquor, to bikes & mini bikes to big flat screen TVs.

Those left to cherish Chaz’s memory include

his siblings,
Carol (Doug) Paul, Dubuque, IA,
Debbie (Dave) Root, Janesville, WI,
Nancy (Gerald) Heimann, Gratiot, WI,
Steve (Donna) Haferbecker,
Mike Haferbecker,
and David Haferbecker, all of Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Chaz was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister, Laura Haferbecker.

The family would like to thank all of Chaz’s friends that were just like family to him for all of their camaraderie and support throughout the years.

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

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

Viola C. Avery

Viola “Olie” Catherine Avery, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on August 19, 2022, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by her loving family.

No public service will be held. Private family burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is in charge of arrangements

Viola was born on July 14th, 1929, in Holy Cross, Iowa, the youngest of nine children to Edward and Catherine (Ellerbach) Hayes. She married Howard Leibfried in 1949 at Holy Cross Catholic Church and together had two sons, Richard and Dennis. Howard passed away in 1953 and Dennis preceded her in death while in the military. She married Louis Avery in 1956 at St. Columbkille’s church and together had a daughter, Jill. He also preceded her in death in 1991. Viola was employed at William C. Brown’s for 22 years until her retirement.

Olie will be remembered for many wonderful qualities, especially the fun and laughter that she brought to everyone who knew her. She will be greatly missed, but she left us all great memories.

She is survived by her son Richard (Joyce) Leibfried, daughter Jill A. (Steven) Turner, both of Dubuque, grandchildren Pam (Bob) Ludwig, Scott (Christy) Leibfried, Tim (Jenny Stewart) Turner, Travis (Sarah) Turner, and Nikki Leibfried, great grandchildren Josie, Tyler, and Maddie Leibfried, Olivia Turner, and Eden Schrack, in-laws Joan (Bob) Valentine and Daniel (Mickie) Leibfried, as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Catherine, husbands Howard and Louis, son Dennis Liebfried, and siblings Frances, Louis, Genevieve, Delia, Evalena, Clara, Clem, and Virgil.

In lieu of flowers, a Viola Avery Memorial Fund will be established.

Rita R. Ledford

Rita R. Ledford, 77, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, August 20, 2022, at Genesis Medical Center, East Campus in Davenport.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at Faith United Methodist Church in Monmouth, Iowa.  Cremation has taken place.  A private burial will be held at a later date.  Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Rita Rozann White was born on December 5, 1944 in Baldwin, Iowa, to Clayton and Susan (Bradley) White.  She was a graduate of Baldwin High School.  She married Robert Dean Ledford Jr. on May 9, 1965 in Davenport, Iowa.  Four children were born to this union, Pam, Mike, Scott and Heather.

Rita was a homemaker and had sold Tupperware for several years.  She was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Monmouth where she had served in many capacities including teaching Sunday School as well as serving as the United Methodist Women State of Iowa Secretary.

She enjoyed crocheting, spending time with her family and her church.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Pam (Darwyn) Hoffmeier of Maquoketa, IA, Mike (Brenda) Ledford of Cedar Rapids, IA, Scott (Stephanie) Ledford of Granite Falls, NC, and Heather Ledford of Andrew, IA; 12 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; 2 step-grandchildren, and 4 step-great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Robert on February 7, 2021, a brother Franz White and a sister Evelyn Doescher.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rita R. Ledford memorial fund has been established.

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

Lowell H. Wolter

Lowell H. Wolter, age 86, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly at home on Saturday, August 20, 2022.  To celebrate Lowell’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 25, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  The family requests that all who attend come in their Black and Gold Hawkeye attire.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, August 26, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Lowell was born on October 12, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of  Henry and Evelyn (Pfohl) Wolter.

After serving with the U.S. Army National Guard, Lowell was employed with St. Regis Paper Company and later went to work for the John Deere Dubuque Works until his well earned retirement.  He was married to Joyce Tigges on May 25, 1957, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 3 children and 49 years together before she passed away on January 28, 2007.  Lowell would later meet another wonderful woman, Juanita Steichen, and they would spend the last 15 years together.  In his free time Lowell had many interests including hunting, fishing and catching turtles.  He spent countless hours in his wood shop making all kinds of beautiful pieces for his family that will be cherished for generations to come.  In recent years he enjoyed traveling extensively with Juanita across the United States and Ireland.  Lowell was also an avid sports fan, doing his best to never miss an Iowa Hawkeye game.  He liked spending time with his family and meeting up with friends at his favorite hang out, Shorty’s, in East Dubuque.  We will miss Lowell more than words can say, but find some comfort in knowing that he is now free of all of the health issues he has faced these past months.

Those left to cherish Lowell’s memory include

his children,
Gayla (Randy) Mills
and Don (Sheila) Wolter, both of Dubuque;

his grandchildren,
Nicholas, Keisha, Allissa, Cody, Rebecca and Drew;

his great-grandchildren,
Skyla, Aliese, Chayce, Hunter, Lance, Kaylee, Kaden, Lucy, Landon, Vivian, George and Leandre;

his long time companion,
Juanita Steichen, Dubuque, IA;

his daughter-in-law,
Barb Wolter, Dubuque, IA;

a grand-daughter-in-law,
Sarah Potter, Springfield, MO;

his brother-in-law,
Dick (Sandy) Tigges, Bernard, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Lowell was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Joyce Wolter; a son, Dan Wolter; a grandson, Fenton Green; and his siblings, Raymond Wolter, Merlyn Wolter and Kathleen Wolter in infancy.

Lowell’s family would like to extend a special thanks to all of his doctors at Grand River, the 1st responders and the police officers for their compassion and kindness.

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

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