Obituaries Archive

Victoria M. Andersen

Victoria Marie Andersen, 70, of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away in the comfort & care of her four children in Columbia, Missouri on January 11, 2022. Vicki, as she was called her entire life, was born in Dubuque, Iowa to Stanley & Therese (Johanningmeier) Spielman. She attended Cherry Grove school until attending junior & high schools in Maquoketa, Iowa. On February 5, 1968, she married Harold C. Keeley in Jacksonville, Florida. The couple moved back to Maquoketa for the birth of their first child in early 1969, but returned to Florida until late 1970. They moved to Marshalltown, Iowa and Vicki resided there until 1991. Throughout her years in Marshalltown, she was a homemaker (as she famously said her “June Cleaver Years”) did extensive volunteer work, enjoyed entertaining guests & hosting parties, having lunches with friends & traveling, was a Girl Scout leader, and a member of several boards & committees within the community including Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and the T.T.T. philanthropic sorority. Proudly, energetically, lovingly and flawlessly, Vicki raised her four children as a single mother, going to college and earning an associates degree from Marshalltown Area Community College. She worked for Mid-Iowa Community Action, first as a direct service provider and eventually promoting several times into a leadership role. Her impact with MICA transformed the lives of thousands of individuals & families during her tenure. She moved back to Maquoketa in 1991 and continuing to follow her heart for serving others, began working at DAC, Inc. Again, beginning in a direct service position, but promoting into a leadership role until retiring in 2012. In 2000, she married Richard L. Andersen and he preceded her in death in 2015. She and Rich were the epitome of peas in a pod. They enjoyed going to the movies, playing cards, visiting with friends, dining out & attending live performances, traveling & just simply being at home together. But by far, their favorite pastime was anything with family, most especially their Grandchildren!

Vicki honored Rich’s memory by giving two full measures of extraordinary love to each of them every chance she could. If she wasn’t able to attend their sporting events & activities, she would share about them to whoever she could. One of her all time most favorite things was a ‘slumber party’ with whoever could stay the night in her cozy home she loved so much. In recent years, she had reconnected with several high school friends. She cherished many luncheons, impromptu reunions & gatherings, including a surprise 70th birthday celebration for her. Vicki was up for just about anything, found the humor in everything, her quick wit was  matched only by her over-the-top generous spirit and will live forever in the hearts of all who were lucky enough meet up with her.

She is survived by her children Bridget (Brian) Canaday of Columbia, Missouri, Raquel (Kyle) Clausen of Bellevue, Iowa, Nicole (Mike) Olsen of Maquoketa, Iowa and Chip (Jennifer) Keeley of Clarinda, Iowa. Her most cherished grandchildren Josh (Casey), Haley (Alex), Allison, Dawson, Jack, Maddalyn, Keeley, Greyson, Kelsea (Brian) & Ashlea and great-grandson Royce. Her sister, Sally (Bill) Schroeder of Ankeny, Iowa. And her “Cuzzie” Jeanne (Paul) Hampton of Dubuque, Iowa.

She is preceded in death by Harold (in 1984) and her parents.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 19th from 4-7pm under the direction of Carson Celebration Of Life Center in Maquoketa. A funeral service at 11:00am, followed by her favorite luncheon, will be held on January 20th at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa with Pastor Neil Harrison presiding. For those wishing to make a donation in her honor, contributions can be made to one her favorite causes, St Judes Children’s Research Hospital or to a Memorial fund established by her children to intern her ashes at a later time.

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

Rose M. Woodhouse

Rose Mary (Henkels) Woodhouse, age 98, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 2:52 p.m., on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at Grand Haven Community Center in Eldridge.  To celebrate Rose Mary’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Monday, January 17, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street.  The Rosary will be recited by the Nativity Rosary Society at 10:30 a.m.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, at the Church of the Nativity, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Rose Mary was born in 1923, to Roy and Pauline (Hehl) Henkels on a farm in Sherrill, Iowa, where she and her sister, Irma, were raised.  She grew happily there and then in her teens moved to live and work in Dubuque.  She married George Woodhouse on November 30, 1944, and they were blessed with 7 children, George Jr., Mary, Tom, Jim, Bill, Polly and Dave.  Rose Mary was always a positive and energetic mom, as well as a great role model for her children.  She put the needs of others above her own and volunteered countless hours to helping whoever needed her.  She was a fantastic cook and hostess who took pride in making sure her guests had plenty of snacks and a nice hot cup of coffee.  Rose Mary was also a talented seamstress, often making gifts for the children and grandchildren.  She had a green thumb and carefully tended to her flower gardens, with the roses being her favorites.  She had a kind heart and loved all of God’s creatures, especially cats, dogs and the wild birds she would feed regularly.  Watching the hummingbirds come to the feeders and dart about was one of her favorite activities.  She was a devout Catholic, always an active member of Nativity Church where she volunteered helping with funerals and was a member of the Rosary Society.  She not only attended Mass on Sundays, but on First Fridays, Holy Days and every day during Lent.  Rose Mary also made sure that each of her five boys were regular alter servers.  Her family was definitely Rose Mary’s top priority.  She loved hosting family get togethers and looked forward to random visits from all of the children.  Rose Mary was a class act who always had a smile on her face and made the best of every situation.  She was extremely selfless and was the ideal example of compassion.  The world is no doubt a better place because of the 98 years that Rose Mary has been here with us.  She will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Those left to cherish Rose Mary’s memory include

her children,
Mary Even, Bill (Julie) Woodhouse, Polly Woodhouse Smith and Dave Woodhouse;

a daughter-in-law,
Wendy Woodhouse;

her grandchildren,
Heather, Amy, George III, Melissa, Andrea, Tim, Jennifer, Tom Jr., Emily, James Jr., Derek, Sarah, Ian, Allison, Hilary, Quinn, Molly and Gabe;

and 25 great-grandchildren.

Rose Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, George Woodhouse; 3 sons, George Woodhouse Jr., Tom Woodhouse and James Woodhouse; 2 grandchildren, Rachel and Jessica Woodhouse; a sister, Irma Kennicker; a son-in-law, Ivan Even; and a daughter-in-law, Joan Kruel.

The family would like to thank the staff of Grand Haven and Heartland Hospice for the wonderful care they gave our Mom during her transitional time.

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

Darlene A. Scharpf

Darlene A. (Wubben) Scharpf, 88 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, January 10, 2022, At Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. The funeral mass will be 11 AM, Monday, January 17, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena where friends may call after 9:30 AM until the time of mass. Father Howard Barch will be officiating. Burial will be in Pilot Knob Cemetery, rural Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born April 21, 1933, at home in rural East Galena Township the oldest daughter of Paul H. and Mary A. (Berger) Wubben. She was united in marriage to William J. Scharpf on May 10, 1952, at Nativity BVM Roman Catholic Church and he preceded her in death on April 29, 2008. She farmed with her husband until their retirement in August of 1990. Darlene was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, St. Mary’s Altar, and Rosary Society, where she served as past president and treasurer of the Society. Darlene loved riding motorcycle with her husband, dancing, spending time with her family, and watching her grandsons participate in sports. She loved to bake and give her baked goods to her grandchildren, neighbors, and friends.

She is survived by one son, George A. (Leann M.) Scharpf of Galena, IL, three grandsons, Brian (Tina) Scharpf of Galena, IL, Andrew (fiancée’ Eydie Timmerman) Scharpf of Marian, IA, and Kevin (Lyndsi) Scharpf of Galena, IL, five great-grandchildren, Tyson, Jack, Lola, Lloyd, and Ben, step-grandchildren, Devin Halstead (Amanda), Taylor (Jason) Engle, Blaine Timmerman, step-great-grandchildren, Maren, Eligh, Cole and Paisley, five sisters, Marian (Adell) Hoff of Bellevue, IA, Elaine Semrow of Janesville, WI, Rosella Hying of Platteville, WI, Agnes (Larry) Ter Maat of Madison, WI, Joann Winn of Leland, NC, two brothers, Joe (Kris) Wubben of East Dubuque, IL, John Wubben of Cuba City, WI, three sisters-in-law, Lois Wubben of Oregon, WI, Janice Eberhard, and Marilyn Wubben both of Dubuque, IA and Darlene Wubben of Buckingham, VA, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a great-grandson, Owen Scharpf, four brothers, Raymond, James, Donald, and Ralph, two sisters, Eileen Jaeger, and Leota McQuaid, two brother’s in-law, Ronnie Hying and Phil Winn, three nephews, Frankie Robinson, Michael McQuaid, and Daniel Schultz, and a great-nephew, Mark Olson.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jessica, Dr. Matt Gullone, and her friends from Prestwick apartments.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Phyllis J. Slattery

Phyllis J. Slattery, age 72, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 12, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Phyllis’ life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Phyllis’ family.

Phyllis was born on June 10, 1949, in Camanche, IA, a daughter to Joseph and Phyllis (Schumacher) Howard.  After graduating from high school, Phyllis began to chase her dream of owning and operating her very own beauty salon.  She successfully obtained her goal in time and next began her search for love and companionship.  Phyllis eventually met her soul-mate, Stephen Slattery, while attending church in Clinton.  The couple was united in marriage and made their way to Steve’s home in Dubuque where they began a family of their own and created the next chapter in Phyllis’ life as well.  They were blessed with 2 daughters, and 3 grandchildren over the years and found true joy in this life as they both looked forward to spending eternity together as well.  Phyllis had a strong love and devotion not only for her family, but also for her Lord and Savior.  She lived her life just as she practiced her faith, fully committed to serving others in her words, thoughts, and actions.  Phyllis was a school bus driver for many years and absolutely enjoyed the opportunity to carry the kids on her route back and forth to school each and every day.  Phyllis had the heart of a servant, full of compassion and empathy for anyone who came into her life.  Her heart and desire for helping others never wavered and Phyllis never met a stranger who wasn’t soon going to be a friend.  Phyllis was also a very talented artist and enjoyed expressing herself through oil painting.  Many of her works remain today to help those who knew and loved her to remember her heart of gold through the difficult days ahead.  We are surely heart-broken today as we say farewell for now to such a beautiful soul, but we know and trust that the Lord is keeping Phyliss safe and secure in His loving and grace filled arms until we all meet again.  Thank you, Phyllis, for always being the love and light that everyone around you needed.  May your legacy be carried forward through all of the lives you’ve touched and may the wonderful memories of your gentle soul soon overpower the grief which stricken our hearts today.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Phyllis include,

her loving husband,
Stephen M. Slattery, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter,
Christina K. Paredes, East Dubuque, IL;

her grandchildren,
Isabella Martinez, Carmella Martinez, and Diego Paredes, all of East Dubuque, IL;

her siblings,
Joe (Rachel) Howard, Camanche, IA,
and Patricia Colbert, Carmichael, CA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Michelle Brock; and her sister, Pam Conover.

Phyllis’ family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Phyllis, and her family.

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

Earl G. Straka

Earl G. Straka, 85, formerly of Galena, IL and Wauzeka, WI passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at the home of his stepdaughter and step son-in-law, Kim and Rodney Coohey’s home in Cascade, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Earl will be held from 11:00 to 1:30 p.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 1:30 p.m. with Deacon Joseph Schockemoehl presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

He was born June 20, 1936 in Wauzeka, Wisconsin, son of Emil and Dora (Pettera) Straka.  He is a graduate of the Wauzeka High School.  He married the love of his life, Margaret (Edna) Peiffer on November 20, 1980, and was heart broken since he lost her on January 30, 2014.

Earl was employed as a welder at John Deere Dubuque Works and then at Star Manufacturing in Freeport, Illinois until his retirement.  In his retirement he used his talent as a wood worker and made several wood toys, and other beautiful things.  Fishing was his absolute favorite past time.  When together, he and Edna loved to travel.  He was a very kind and gentle man, whom will be missed.

He is survived by step children, Annette (David) Ennis of Asbury, IA, Allan (Kimberly) Meyers of Benton, WI, Ed Meyers of Monticello, IA and Kim (Rodney) Coohey of Cascade, IA; five step grandchildren; two twin step great grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Pam Straka of Dubuque, IA; nieces and nephews, Wendy (Emerald) Faulker Jr. of Readstown, WI, Shawn (Sarah) Straka of Bridgeport, WI and Rachael Straka of Dubuque, IA; and; five great nieces and one great nephew.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Donald Straka.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for the care and support given to Earl and our family.

Vickie S. Kammiller

Vickie S. Kammiller, 57 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at her home.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Monday, January 17, 2022 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, with a funeral service to begin at 1:00 p.m.  Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

“Free spirits are inclined to explore life and taste new experiences that hold true to the deepest parts of themselves verses being influenced by what the masses around them are doing. They often people who think freely and have the courage to hear their own voice and follow their own integrity.” Vickie put her whole heart into the things she believed in and never let the voices of others diminish her beliefs.

Vickie was born to Daniel Trautwein and Judy (Dave) Denlinger on April 10, 1964 in Rockford, IL. Vickie resided at the family farm in Durango IA for most of her life but took her last breath in her home in Dyersville IA.

Vickie was blessed with a large loving family. Vickie is survived by her lifelong love and partner Fred Kammiller, 5 children: Nicole (Kyle) Kammiller – Ernzen and Freddie Kammiller both of Durango, Taz (Kayla) Kammiller of Ryan, Alex Kammiller and Reesen Kammiller both of Dyersville; 14 grandchildren: CJ, Brian, Kristina, Chason, Grason, Clayton, Isabella, Taylor, Ryan, Gage, Lexi, Ethan, Chase, and Noah; mother, Judy Denlinger of Dubuque, her sisters, Roxanne (Pat) Demaio of Dubuque and Sherri (Matt) Means  of Hordville, NE, and half-brother, Tony (Ashley) Denlinger of Dubuque.

She is proceeded in death by her grandson Myles Ernzen, dad, Daniel Trautwein, step- father Dave Denlinger, grandparents, Frank and Margaret Sarazin, and her angel babies Josey and Joseph.

Vickie was diagnosed with breast cancer that quickly spread throughout her body in the summer of 2021. Despite this diagnosis, her passion for life and her contagious curiosity was no different. She was and will continue to be an inspiration to us all for living life to the fullest. There is no doubt that Vickie loved being a Grandma. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to chase their dreams. Vickie loved all things in life, she believed in opening your mind and enjoyed researching how to do so, she loved gardening, jeeps, and spending time with her family. We will always admire her belief in herself and her ability to prioritize her needs. Vickie Kammiller overcame a lot of hardship and poured herself into becoming who she wanted to be.  Vickie had a big heart and always helped those in need.  We are grateful for the time we spent with her.

“A wild spirit is often misunderstood. Others may think she is lost, when in truth, she is simply roaming free”. In life and in death Vickie’s spirit was and is wild and free.

Vickie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Hall-Perrine Cancer Center and St. Croix Hospice for the care and compassion they showed to their mom.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home,  750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Doris A. Radloff

Doris A. Radloff, 81, of Lancaster, WI, formerly of Dickeyville, died Wednesday, January 12, 2022.  Visitation will be from Noon until 2:15 pm at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, followed by a Funeral Service at 2:30 pm.

Doris was born March 23,1940 in Marked Tree, AR, daughter of Henry and Alice (Erwin) Clay.

She married David A. Radloff on December 24, 1959.  He preceded her in death on December 21, 2019.

Doris worked as a waitress as several local supper clubs.  She also worked at E.R. Carpenters and Mercy Health Center.

She is survived by three children, Richard (Shail) Radloff of Ellenboro, NC, Debra (Chuck) Smith of Falling Waters, WV, and Michael (LeAnn Spofford) Radloff of Platteville, WI; four grandchildren, Shane Radloff, Aaron (Jeni) Lange, Adam (Tracy) Lange and Casey (Samantha) Lange; 13 great-grandchildren, Lexi and Hayden Radloff, Hannah Oberhoffer, Gracie Lange, Cole and Ella Oberhoffer, Wyatt Lange, Landen and Carter Lange, Myah and Alivia Lange, and Ava and Mason Lange; a brother, Jimmy (Lisa) Clay; a sister, Shirley (Jerry) Kausler and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by three brothers, Gorden, Ronald and Donald Clay and a sister, Brenda Sue Michael.

For further information, or to leave an online condolence for the family, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

George S. Ronek

George Sylvester Ronek, 85, passed away January 9, 2022, at his winter home in New River, AZ.  A Celebration Of Life will be held later this spring in Maquoketa.

George was born April 23, 1936, in St Donatus, IA, son of Otto J. and Viola E. (Oswald) Ronek.

He worked on a dairy farm before serving in the Navy. He worked at John Deere, Dubuque, until 1986, then farmed until his death.

He married the love of his life, Mary (Head) McPherson in 1985 and together raised, trained and raced Standardbred harness horses, including the Iowa 2 Year Old Pacer Of The Year. Later in their lives they changed their breeding program to Miniature Horses and raised a World Champion Mare and Foal.

George enjoyed spending time with family and friends, side x side riding, playing cards, working with horses, camping and traveling; especially trips made to the Adirondack Mountains, Florida, Mexico and cruises to the Caribbean and Alaska.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers; two sisters and 3 brothers-in-law.

He is survived by wife Mary, son Jeff Ronek of Marengo, daughter Michelle Moore of Waterloo, step sons Tim (Jean) McPherson, Jim (Kristy) McPherson, and Scott (Brenda) McPherson; grandchildren Ben (Tristan) Vernon, Jon (Nicole)  Vernon, Micaela (Brandon) Kemp, Dominick McPherson, Bridget (Jerit) Clark, and 9 close great grandchildren; a brother Dale Kennicker of Delmar; brothers-in-law Frank (Fran) Head of New River, AZ, and Bob (Joanne) Head of Maquoketa; sisters-in-law Peggy Head-Costello, and Lois Ronek; and several nieces and nephews, including a special nephew Terry McAllister.

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

David L. Wenzel

David L. Wenzel, 90, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at Lafayette Manor Nursing Home in Darlington, WI.

Family and friends may call after 9:45 a.m. on Friday, January 14, 2022 at Holy Trinity Church in Scales Mound, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, with Rev. Howard C. Barch, Jr. officiating. Facemasks are required per State and CDC guidelines.  Burial will be in the Scales Mound Twp. Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by the Darlington American Legion Post # 214. Following the burial, there will not be a funeral luncheon.  A Celebration of Life will be held in July. The Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is serving the family.

Dave was born on July 5, 1931 in Scales Mound, the son of Ralph and Ruth (Musgrove) Wenzel.  He was a graduate of Scales Mound High School, the class of 1950.  He was united in marriage to DoLores M. Coates on May 27, 1955 in Galena, IL.  She preceded him in death on December 21, 2003.

Dave was a veteran of the U. S. Army, serving during the Korean War, where he received the Bronze Star.  He was a member of the Bates, O’Brien, Howe, Wiegel American Legion Post # 214 of Darlington, WI, and the Galena Elks Lodge # 882.

He enjoyed going to the Casino, traveling in general, and he DoLores took trips to Hawaii and Australia.  Dave was formerly area manager for Orica until his retirement.

Surviving are twin sons, Donald E. (Marilyn) Wenzel of Galena, IL, and Daniel R. (Linda) Wenzel of Scales Mound, IL, five grandchildren, Scott (Stephanie) Wenzel and Matt (Amber) Wenzel, Amy Daves, Melissa (Matt) Dittmar and Greg (Crystal) Wenzel; seven great-grandchildren; David’s friend, Sara Flanagan of Darlington, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife DoLores, and two brothers, Dick and Alan Wenzel.

In lieu of flowers, a David L. Wenzel memorial fund has been established.

Kathy R. Wilhelm

Kathy R. Wilhelm, 65, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022, at her home.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Kathy Rae Klahn was born on December 17, 1956 in Clinton, Iowa, to Richard L. and Virginia (Yaddof) Klahn.  She was a graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.  She married John Wilhelm on November 14, 1987, in Maquoketa, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on June 11, 1993.

Kathy enjoyed playing cards, watching movies, and was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan.

Those left to honor her memory include her sister Karla and husband Marty Larson of Bettendorf, IA; nephews, Drew Larson and wife Elizabeth of Clive, IA and their children, Isaac, Natalie and Karina, and Kyle Larson and wife Liz of Ankeny, IA, and their children, Jantz and Bryson Myers.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

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

Stephen I. Oeth

Stephen Irvin Oeth, 63, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at home surrounded by his loving family.

As per Steve’s request there will be no service.

Stephen was born June 14, 1958, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Arthur Herman and Mary Janet Schmidt Oeth. On May 8, 1982, he married Sue Davis in Marshalltown.

He graduated from Wahlert High School, class of 1976. He attended the University of Iowa and later received a degree from NICC in the Carpentry Program.

He was self employed and owned Oeth Construction Company.  He later was Director of Maintenance at Area Residential Care.

Survivors include his wife, Sue Davis; one daughter, Emma Marie Stapleton; one son, Walter Evan Davis-Oeth of Estherville; two brothers, Dennis A. Oeth of Anacortes, WA, and James F. Oeth of Madison, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art & Mary, and in-laws, Hugh & Marj (Halter) Davis.

Memorials may be made to Habitat for Humanity Dubuque/Jackson Counties.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their kind care and support.

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

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

Melvin R. Runde

Melvin R. Runde, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2022, with his wife and children at his side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Friday, January 14th, 2022, at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Father James Goerend. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Friday at the church until time of service. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Melvin was born on August 2, 1936, in Dubuque to Melvin J. and Gertrude (Anderson) Runde. He attended Dubuque Senior High School. He was united in marriage to Mary Lou Kersch on October 26, 1957, at St. Anthony’s church in Dubuque. He worked for Flexsteel prior to co-owning Runde’s Custom Upholstery for 40 years. Melvin served in the Iowa National Guard for 10 years.

He was a previous member of the Dubuque Shooting 330 Club, Izaak Walton Club, Dubuqueland Campers, and Pheasants Forever. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge 297 for 62 years and was a previous exalted ruler. He received multiple awards and trophies for trapshooting.

He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter, fisherman, and golfer. Mel and Mary wintered in Texas for 18 years and traveled in their camper. One of their travels included a 4-month Alaskan trip. His nickname was “Pickle,” and he had a softball team called Pickle’s Pipers.

Mel is survived by his wife Mary Lou; children Kathy (George) Gendron, Jim (Kathy) Runde, Connie (Mike) Baker, Joe (Kim) Runde, and Dave (Barb) Runde; grandchildren Michelle, Mark, and Marshall Gendron, Tim, Michelle, and Adam Runde, Joe, Lindsey, and Tracy Baker, Mitch, Jenna, and Joe Jr. Runde, Matt, Scott, Kurt, and Shelby Runde; great-grandchildren Audrienna, Evelyn, Owen, Ava, Liam, Brooks, and Kayden; sister Judy (Tom) Witterholt; sister-in-law Harriet Runde; and good friend Robert Murphy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, brother Robert, brothers-in-law Mike and Tom Kersch, and sister-in-law Jeannine Kersch.

A Melvin Runde memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank all the healthcare professionals who cared for Melvin.

Asher E. Schroeder

Asher E. Schroeder, 96, died peacefully at his home in Maquoketa, Iowa, on January 10, 2022.  He was born on May 12, 1925, in Maquoketa to Lee Schroeder and Carol (Doughty) Schroeder. He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1942 and worked for the Iowa State Highway Commission until drafted into the Army in 1943. He served in the 4^th Infantry Ivy Division as a combat engineer, landed on Utah Beach on June 14, 1944, and engaged in several battles in France, where he participated in the liberation of Paris, Belgium, and Germany.  He was wounded and captured in the Hurtgen Forest in Germany on November 14, 1944 and was held captive in several different German POW camps until his liberation on April 2,1945. He returned to the United States after hospitalization in Paris in May of 1945 and was periodically rehospitalized until his discharge from the service in December 1945.

Asher enrolled at the University of Iowa in January of 1946 and married Catherine Seeberger, also of Maquoketa on June 9, 1946, graduated from the University and enrolled in the Iowa Law School, graduating from Law School in 1950. He returned to practice law in Maquoketa, served three terms as Jackson County Attorney (1957-1962), and was appointed United States Attorney for the Northern Half of Iowa in 1967 where he served until 1969. He was appointed Head Legal Counsel for the Iowa Department of Transportation in 1969, served as such until 1978 when he returned to the United States Attorney’s Office and continued serving in the United States Attorney’s Office until his retirement in 1987.

Asher retired to Maquoketa where he continued residing until the time of his death. During his retirement he remained active in the community activity and services, prominent among them, Rotary and the Jackson County Historical Society. He also enjoyed visiting with family and friends to whom he was an inspiration for a life of service to his family, community, and country.

Asher was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Catherine (Seeberger) Schroeder and a sister Carol Lee (Richard) Edwards of Livermore, CA.  He is survived by his three sons Bill (Sally) Schroeder of Ankeny, IA, John (Karen) Schroeder of Sigourney, IA, and David Schroeder of Dubuque, IA; a brother Karl (Eleanor) Schroeder of Maquoketa, IA; sister Muriel (Dick) Stapp of Sun City West, AZ; three grandchildren, Peter (Kristy) Schroeder of Stockton, CA, KT (Ryan) Albaugh of Jacksonville, FL, and Rachel Olson of Altoona, IA; and four great-grandchildren, Johnna and Asher Schroeder of Stockton, CA, and Grace and Sophia Albaugh of Jacksonville, FL.

Memorials may be directed to the American Cancer Society, Jackson County Historical Society, or the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

The family would like to especially thank Hospice of Jackson County for all the special care given to  Asher and to them.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, January 22, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Friday, January 21, 2022, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, with military honors.

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

Patty A. Sheldon

Patty A. Sheldon, 70, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022, at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A gathering of family and friends and celebration of life luncheon will be held from 1 to 5 P.M., Saturday, February 12, 2022, at the Pub Club in Lost Nation, Iowa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Patty Ann Moore was born on June 20, 1951 in Kewanee, Illinois to James Alexander and Mary Frances (Forbes) Moore.  She was a 1969 graduate of Western High School in Buda, Illinois, and then attended and graduated from Stewart’s School of Hair Styling in Davenport.  Through a mutual friend during this time in her life she met the man she would marry, Daniel Glynn Sheldon.  They were married on September 2, 1972, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Candy, and Chad.

Patty did work outside the home for a few years, but her most important job was raising and loving her children, being a devoted wife, and providing a caring, warm home.  Once the children were grown, she adopted her four-legged children and cared for them.

Through the years, Patty was known for her selflessness and caring for others.  In late 2005, she developed serious kidney issues and needed a kidney.  In August of 2007, she was the recipient of a kidney given to her by her brother Larry.  This transplant allowed her to continue living and caring for others, and doing the things she enjoyed such as sewing, traveling with her dad, and spending quality time with her family, and her dogs Lexie and Artie.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Daniel Sheldon of Lost Nation, IA; children, Candy Sheldon of Lost Nation, IA, and Chad (Marisa) Sheldon of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Larry (Elizabeth) Moore of Princeton, IL, Terry (Rosemarie) Moore of Granville, IL, Jerry (Elizabeth) Moore of Washington, IL, and Tina (Steve) Barnett of Bettendorf, IA; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edmund and Eleanor Sheldon of Lost Nation, IA; sister-in-law, LuAnn (Reinhardt Rosson) Sheldon of Manitowoc, WI; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law Steven Sheldon.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Patty A. Sheldon memorial fund has been established.

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

Brittany Gaylord

Brittany Gaylord, 32, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on January 6, 2022.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, January 13th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a Celebration of Life Service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Brittany was born on September 26, 1989, to Stacy Jones and Steve Lehnhardt. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree from University of Dubuque. She married James Gaylord Jr. on August 22, 2015, at Council Hill Station. She worked at Prudential Retirement.

Brittany loved spending time with her family and children, and she always put others before herself. She was a lifelong learner who loved books, and all things Harry Potter. She enjoyed photography, and loved to dance, practice target shooting, and be a hostess. She was not always the best driver, and she was always late. If you needed a closet to be organized, a debt to be consolidated, or just needed to laugh, she was the person for you.

She is survived by her loving husband James; her three sons Sweet Tripp, Wild Charlie, and Stubborn Murdoc; her mother Stacy (Tom) Flanagan; sister Olivia (Kevin) Leslein; her dads Steve and Tim Leslein, her grandmothers Carol Lehnhardt, and Marylou Flanagan; as well as her large extended family.

Brittany was preceded in death by her uncle Danny, and grandparents Grandma and Grandpa Jones, Grandpa Chuck, Grandpa Steve, and Grandpa George Flanagan.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established for her children.