Obituaries Archive

Margaret A. Pape

Margaret Adele Pape, 98, of Dubuque, died Saturday, August 13, 2022, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 10:45 am Tuesday, August 23, 2022 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Margaret will be 11:00 am Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. The funeral service will be live streamed and can be viewed at www.youtube.com/c/saintanthonydubuque.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Margaret was born May 13, 1924, in Galena, IL, the daughter of Francis and Pearl Rosenthal Sullivan. She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School. On October 24, 1942, she married LeRoy H. Pape at Church of the Nativity in Dubuque. They were blessed with three children. He preceded her in death on March 26, 2010.

She was a homemaker who made it her life-long commitment to take care of her family. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and it’s Rosary Society, St. Bernadette Circle, Bridge Club, and Tri-State Twirlers Dance Club. She was a volunteer at Finley Hospital and was one of the original organizers of Camp Albrecht Acres.  She enjoyed playing Bridge.

Survivors include one son, Lawrence “Larry” (Lynn M.) Pape of Dubuque; Deborah Pape of West Union, IA; seven grandchildren, Scott Pape, Penny (Dan) Nauman, Brad (Amy) Pape, Michele Brazier, Jennifer (Dave) Johanningmeier, Melissa (Josh) Silver, Matt (Samantha) Copeland; 12 great-grandchildren, Angela, Melanie, Brian, Daniel, Keianna, Brock, Cree, Savona, Aviana, Jonah, Cyrus, and Waylon; ten great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Mary “Bernie” Hirsch of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Lynn P. Pape, two brothers, Charles Sullivan and Donald Sullivan and one sister Marcella Amling.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Albrecht Acres, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, and Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Oak Park Place, Luther Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque for their special care for Margaret.

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 Margaret’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Henry J. Ehrlich

Henry J. Ehrlich, 87, of Dyersville, Iowa, peacefully passed away on August 15, 2022, in the Marietta Place Memory Care Unit at the Good Neighbor Society in Manchester, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 18, 2022 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 19, 2022 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate and Deacon Jim Steger will concelebtrate.

Hank was born in July of 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Frank and Millie Ehrlich.  He graduated from Loras Academy in the class of 1953.  He started his career with the Galena Glove Company of Dubuque traveling throughout the Midwest as a sales representative until 1990 and then joined Fairfield Glove Company until 2008.  He spent his later years keeping busy in his upholstery shop and doing contract upholstery for Oak Street Mfg. of Monticello.

He married Betty Goldsmith on July 30, 1955.  Together they lived in Dyersville. They took many family vacations and enjoyed trips with friends and family.  He enjoyed golf, bowling, playing cards, reading, fishing and spending time with his family.  His favorite baseball team was the St. Louis Cardinals, and during the football and basketball season he was a Hawkeye fan.  He was a member of the St. Francis Xavier Parish, and for many years he and Betty enjoyed their membership at the Dyersville Golf & Country Club.

Survivors include his wife, Betty, his children, Deb Schroder of Dallas, Texas; Dave of Tacoma, Washington; Tom of Austin, Texas; Beth of Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Sue (Steve) Naber of Dyersville, Iowa; his grandchildren Mitchell and Hope Naber; his brother, Ed Ehrlich; his sister, Rita (Charlie) Wagner; and his sister-in-law, Marilyn (Frank) Ehrlich.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Frank Ehrlich, and his in-laws:  Jan (Ed) Ehrlich, Margaret (Clem) Kapler, Delores (Ed) Nefzger, Mary (John) Kupferschmidt, Mildred (Larry) Kramer, Floyd (Marie) Goldsmith, George (Laura) Goldsmith, James (Bertha) Goldsmith, Fred (Darlene) Goldsmith, Arthur Goldsmith, Jr., Gen (Ray) Olberding, Nellie (Bob) Krapfl, and Bernie Nefzger.

Camilla May Tjarks

“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”–Robert Greene

Camilla May Tjarks was unequivocally better than a master of one: seamstress, carpenter, scuba diver, life guard, artist, pilot, administrative assistant, entrepreneur, clothing retailer, graphic designer, IT specialist, voracious reader, lover of learning as if she would live forever, Suduko-master, mother, grandmother and wife. She has lost her battle with Alzheimer’s Disease, and it is a shame that such a fruitful mind had to be devoured by unforgiving dementia.

Camilla passed away on August 13th, 2022 at home. Visitation will be from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 17th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Family and friends may also gather after 9:00 a.m. Thursday, August 18th, 2022 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church where a service will be held at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. John Crawford officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Born to Ernest and Madelyn Lyon in Jefferson, Iowa on July 19, 1941, Cam was an only child. But don’t for a minute think that she was lonely as she had a multitude of cousins with whom she kept up. Life in Jefferson was a bit on the sleepy side, and Cam aspired to get out of town to make her own way in the world. She attended the University of Iowa where she completed a BA in Social Work. It was here that she met her husband, Heyo, on a blind date. The irony of this story is that they were on a couples blind date with different partners. Fortunately they sussed out their partnerships, and after 3 years of courtship, Heyo and Cam married on August 25 of 1962. Her wedding dress was lovingly handmade by her mother-in-law-to-be.

Tanya, Tasha and Heyo were born to the couple between the years of 1970 and 1980. It’s been said that during the pregnancy of her son, at the age of 40, she had never been more alive and glowing. At that time, Cam and Heyo had just completed building the house of their dreams. It was in this house that Cam was able to peacefully pass, surrounded by family, from earth to her peaceful eternity.

Never did Cam say, “Absolutely not!” when someone brought home a stray pet or wanted to try a new hobby. She was ferociously supportive of her children and their paths in life. She taught her children how to handle tools, how to ski and swim, how to build a fire, how to sew, crochet and how to use a computer (Cam was an Apple geek before Apple was a household name). She tirelessly spotted them while practicing gymnastics, encouraged them to play piano and catch fireflies. She carefully explained the fine art of peeing in the woods without getting their shoes wet.

In her role as wife to her husband’s busy dental career she attended a multitude of public events with him — holiday events, speeches, celebrations, or inaugurations — and was content that the spotlight was his. Cam and Heyo enjoyed traveling together, with one of her favorite trips being to Egypt and riding camels. They had the fortune of seeing some very amazing places while globe-trotting.

Cam was a member of PEO, Chapter IP, a philanthropic organization which supports the education of women around the world. She served the Chapter in many capacities, including President, Vice-President and Secretary. She was a member and a quilter (“The Cover Girls”) with St. Paul Lutheran Church, a member of the University of Iowa Psi Omega Dental (wives) fraternity, a board member of the Dubuque District Dental Society Wives, as well as a proud supporter of National Public Radio.  One of Cam’s regrets in life was never owning a 3D printer. She understood the potential of using it for art, architecture and even the development of dentistry.  It is obvious to all who knew her that she was quite a visionary.

Cam was preceded in death by her parents, and her surrogate parents, in-laws Hermann and Talkea Tjarks. She leaves behind her husband of almost 60 years; her children, Tanya, Tasha (Jon Morgan) of Franklin, WI and Heyo (Rosie) of Maderia, CA; her grandchildren, Madeline (21), Myra (12), Eli (10), Tenley (3) and Teagan (9 mos); her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Helga and Richard Van Iten and their son Heyo (Tatiana) Van Iten, her beloved Aunt Bev and Uncle Keith McCarthy; and her best bud, Pete (the mutt).

Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep
By Mary Elizabeth Frye

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am in a thousand winds that blow,
I am the softly falling snow.
I am the gentle showers of rain,
I am the fields of ripening grain.
I am in the morning hush,
I am in the graceful rush
Of beautiful birds in circling flight,
I am the starshine of the night.
I am in the flowers that bloom,
I am in a quiet room.
I am in the birds that sing,
I am in each lovely thing.
Do not stand at my grave and cry,
I am not there. I do not die.

John R. Lawler

John R. “Jack” Lawler, 74, of Zwingle and formerly of Key West, passed away on Saturday August 13th at home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be Thursday, August 18th, 2022, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where a family wake service will be at 2:45 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, August 19th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Key West Church with Msgr. Thomas Toale as the celebrant. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post 528 of Cascade.

Jack was born in Dubuque on January 10th, 1948, the son of Donald and Marcella (Kress) Lawler.  He attended St. Joseph’s Key West grade school and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1966.  He attended Iowa Automotive and Diesel Institute in Cedar Rapids, graduating as a Master Mechanic in 1971.

On July 22, 1972, he married Marilyn Collins of Zwingle, Iowa and together they shared 50 years of marriage.

Jack was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 41 years working in maintenance and retiring in 2010.  He also enjoyed driving a milk truck for Vic Stecher and being lovingly referred to as “the milkman”.

Jack enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1967, serving in Vietnam aboard the U.S.S. Lyman K. Swenson, then in the U.S. Naval Reserve from 1969-1974.

He was a proud member of the Hawkeye Vintage Farm Machinery Association, UAW Local #94, a lifetime member of Key West Knights of Columbus, Cascade American Legion Post #528, Iowa Chapter 5 International Collectors, a lifelong member of St. Joseph’s Key West Parish and their Holy Name Society, as well as a lifelong supporter of the Key West Fire Department.

Jack was loved by many and will be greatly missed.  His big smile and warm heart will be dearly missed as well.  Everyone who knew Jack knew of his love the “Farmall Red” tractors and having a “sassparilli” with his friends.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn of Zwingle; his children Corey (Judy) Lawler of Key West, Iowa, Julie (Brett) Merfeld of Zwingle, Iowa, and Katie (Shane) Snakenberg of Bettendorf, Iowa; grandchildren Carly, Ella, Chloe, Jenna, and Gavin; his siblings Charles (Gail) Takes of Dubuque, Bill (Diane) Lawler of Peosta, Mary Jo Carpenter of Ft. Collins, CO, Jim Lawler of Independence, Jan Geertsema of Peosta, David (Kathy) Lawler of East Dubuque, Donnie (Helene) Lawler of Manchester, NJ, and Dennis (Janice) Lawler of Durango; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Don and Marce, father and mother-in-law Loras and Catherine Collins, sisters-in-law Pat Lawler and Joanie Lawler, brother-in-law Dave Geertsema, and his nephew Kevin Lawler.

In lieu of flowers and plants, the family requests memorial donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Jack’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the physicians and nurses at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, and Hospice of Dubuque (especially Hillary, Betsy, Nichole and Peggy) for all of their loving care and support.  Many thanks to his beloved friends and neighbors who filled his final days with love and laughter.  Also, a special thank you to the Centralia-Peosta Fire Department for giving Jack his last ride home.

Dianne K. Holmes

Dianne K. (Donohue) Holmes of Dubuque, IA passed away at home on August 13th, 2022, at the age of 76.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, August 18th, 2022, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Mass of Christin Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 19th, 2022, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Dianne was born on September 29, 1945 in Forrest City, IA to Thomas Donohue and Wilma Walkup. She graduated from Forrest City High School in 1963. She met Jack Holmes while working at Newman High School in Mason City. They moved to Dubuque where they were married on December 12, 1970, and raised their family, all of whom were very special to her.

When Dianne moved to Dubuque, she began working for Herrig and Herrig Insurance and then Tri-Core Insurance until her retirement in 2010. She continued to work part-time because she loved to stay busy and enjoyed being around people, most recently working at Medical Associates.

In her free time, she loved having friends and family over for dinner and her cooking was the best.

Dianne is survived by her sister, Karen (Jim) Jorgensen, her children, Mark (Miki) of Houston, TX, Scot (Gina) of Concord, CA, Colette (Zeke) Philipsen of Des Moines, Tim (Teresa) of Lakewood, CO, David (Janice) of Littleton, CO, and Jackie (Jim) Kuennen of Dubuque as well as 14 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and her beloved black lab, Grace. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jack Holmes, her parents and her brother, John.

Dianne was filled with love for her family, her dog, and the Iowa Hawkeyes. We know there will be a great reunion with Jack and her friends in heaven. She will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

John J. Meehan

John J. Meehan, 79, of Marion passed away Saturday, August 13, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Marion where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30.  Rev. David O’Connor will preside.  Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Dyersville.

John was born April 5, 1943, in Detroit, MI the son of Michael and Marguerite (Doyle) Meehan.  He graduated from Denison High School, earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Loras College and earned a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from St. Ambrose University.  He met the love of his life, Jeanne Drexler, while in college.  They married on December 27, 1967 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.  John worked at Rockwell Collins and Banks of Iowa Computer Services.

John’s favorite hobby was flying and teaching flying lessons.  John was an avid reader and loved history, spending a lot of time learning about his ancestors.  He enjoyed technology and computers.  He adored spoiling his grandchildren, and regularly spent time with them.

Survivors include his wife Jeannie, his daughter, Jennifer (Erik) Brennom of Marion, his grandchildren Emily and Michael Brennom, and sister Maureen (Jim) Stary of Omaha.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law, Emil and Marie Drexler, and his Aunt Clare Meehan.

Memorials are preferred.

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

Wendy L. Priest

Wendy Lynn (Howell) Priest, 68, passed away Monday August 15th., 2022 at Stonehill Care Center after suffering for 10-years with a very rare degenerative brain disease known as “PSP” (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy).

Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 am Thursday at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2145 John F. Kennedy Road, followed by the funeral service at 11 am.

Wendy was born April 22, 1954 to Marilyn Butler and Thomas Howell.

She attended Dubuque Senior High School and received her GED from NICC in Peosta. She started her working career at a young age and worked at various different retail stores at Kennedy Mall. She worked in the cash room for C.L. Swanson Vendors and then joined her husband as the Office Manager at his business, Tri-State Kitchens, where Wendy worked for 29-years, until her disease forced her to retire.

Wendy enjoyed shopping and going on shopping trips with her best friends, “Cindy and Jeannie”. Wendy was a true fashionista. She was on a first name basis with many of the sales staff at the clothing stores, shoe stores, Ulta Beauty and Sephora that she frequented. Wendy always enjoyed getting dressed up and going out for dinner on Friday or Saturday nights to Timmerman’s or the Moracco Supper Club. She especially enjoyed all of the fun times and great food with friends Cindy, John, Jeannie, Danny, Suzy, Glen and of course Jeanne and Garry Heiar (owners of the Moracco).

Wendy married the love of her life, John Priest, on November 6th. 1971 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on Delhi Street in Dubuque, Iowa.

Wendy and John have been long time members of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her loving husband, John, of 50-years. Her children John “Jay” Priest of Warwick, NY,  Todd & Tina Priest of Dubuque, Grandson Tristan Priest, Dubuque, Granddaughter Trinity Priest, Dubuque. Her mother, Marilyn Butler, Asbury. Her Sister Connie (Denny) Goedert, Dubuque. Her nephew DJ (Catana) Goedert and niece Emalee Goedert. Her sisters in-law Lynda Kluesner, Donna (Ronnie) Hayes, Connie Howell and niece Jamie (Dave) Bahl, Brothers in-law Michael Priest, Milwaukee, WI. And Kenneth Lynch, Dubuque. Uncles Carroll (Jan) Oleson, Terry (Sue) Oleson and Bob Oleson, plus many other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Wendy was preceded in death by her father Thomas E. Howell, her brother Randy L. Howell, a sister Debbie (who died at birth), her stepfather Thomas Butler, her father in-law Donald Priest, her mother in-law Rosemary Priest, her sister in-law Sharon Priest and her brother in-law David Kluesner.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

In leu of flowers, memorials May be given to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Hospice of Dubuque or Stonehill Community Care Facility.

The family would like to thank: Dr. Naomi Hasselblad and her staff at Medical Associates West Campus. Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care and kindness shown to Wendy during the last 3-months of her life. Stonehill Community Care Facility, 2-West staff for all of their care and compassion and Wendy’s personal caregiver, Mandy Randall, who became Wendy’s kind, compassionate dear friend and took wonderful care of Wendy for the last 8-months of her life.

Brenda M. Bloesch

Brenda Mary Bloesch, 89, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, August 1, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

Brenda was born in London, England on February 19, 1933 to Colin and Mary Jackson.  Her father was a chemist and her mother a physicist. She grew up during the London Blitz of 1940-41.

In the summer of 1958, Brenda met Donald Bloesch in a Salvation Army hotel in Geneva, Switzerland. Donald was there doing postdoctoral research in religious communities (having completed a PhD in theology at the University of Chicago), and Brenda was finishing her doctoral thesis in French literature at the University of London. Their friendship flourished and deepened. When Brenda completed her thesis (a critical edition of one of Voltaire’s works), she emigrated to the U.S., and Brenda and Donald were married on November 23, 1962 in Chicago.

Brenda joined Donald in Dubuque, Iowa, where Donald was a professor of systematic theology at the University of Dubuque Seminary. Donald was a prolific writer as well as a popular professor, and for 48 years they were a wonderful team. Brenda combined her resourcefulness and considerable research and bibliographic skills to assist Donald in the preparation of his books. As members of the seminary community, their warm hospitality was appreciated by faculty and students alike.

Brenda loved gardening, taking brisk walks, reading mystery books, and watching old movies. But her greatest joy was interacting with people. Brenda was very dear to everyone who knew her, and she treasured her many friendships.

Brenda had a deep faith and was a beautiful witness of God’s love. She was very generous and cared about the needs of others. She maintained her curiosity, love of conversation, and sharp wit to the very end.

Brenda had no children, but she was very close to her two nephews, David and Peter, and lavished them with the same love and attention that a mother would give. She loved being acknowledged on Mother’s Day and being asked for motherly advice.

Brenda will be deeply missed by her brother-in-law and his wife, Richard and Ethel Bloesch; nephews David and Peter Bloesch; and grandnephew, Philip, all of Iowa City.

Brenda was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her brother and his wife.

Memorial Services will be at 4:30 p.m. Monday, August 22, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Informal visitation will immediately follow the Memorial Service. Private burial  will be in St. Paul’s UCC Cemetery in Monee, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, Brenda requested that memorial gifts to be made to Prison Fellowship (Phone:  800-206-9764 / Address: Prison Fellowship, PO Box 1550, Merrifield, VA 22116 / Website: www.prisonfellowship.org).

Brenda’s family would like to give special thanks to these dear friends:  Dawn, Barbara and Don, Linda, and Lois. These friends were angels to her and gave her much help and comfort, especially in her final months.

Cecil M. McDowell

Cecil M. “Mike” McDowell, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on August 13, 2022, at home in the loving arms of his wife of 41 years.  To honor Mike’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in Huron, South Dakota at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on March 21, 1936, in  Huron, South Dakota, a son to Cecil L. and Regina (Kaminsky) McDowell.  He spent his younger years in South Dakota and eventually made his way to the Dubuque area where he met his wife, Deborah “Deb” Hellis, and the couple was united in marriage 30 days later and have been inseparable ever since.  Mike spent his working years at a few various places, but primarily in the Tri-State’s at the Dubuque Pack and Flexsteel Industries before finally moving into retirement.  In his free-time, Mike always enjoyed a little panning for gold whenever possible, and if he had the time to throw some hunting and fishing into the mix, those were considered to be time well spent also.  He could also be found in his comfy recliner from time to time watching the recent bowling tournaments, or the little league softball championships when they came around as well.  Mike was undeniably gifted with and possessed the stubborn polish gene throughout his life, but he also knew when the time was right to voluntarily include his unsolicited dry humor into the conversation at hand.  He was a good and decent man who truly loved those he cared for and made friends wherever he went.  It’s going to be beyond difficult to navigate the days ahead without Mike walking among us, but we will hopefully find some comfort within the memoires which he leaves behind.  Thank you, Mike, for continually giving your all and for keeping life simple and uncomplicated wherever possible.  May the Lord grant you the peace you seek from your earthly battles now and also grant us the peace necessary to help heal our broken hearts until we see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Cecil include,

his beautiful bride,
Deborah McDowell, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Christopher (Sadie) Hellis, Nashville, TN;

his grandchildren,
Rylee Hellis, Dubuque, IA,
Jack Hellis, Nashville, TN,
and Jasper Hellis, Nashville, TN;

his nephew,
Patrick (Patty) McDowell, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, James (Barbara) McDowell.

Mike’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sarah, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sr. Mary Dennis Lentsch, PBVM

Sister Mary Dennis Lentsch, PBVM, 85, died on August 13, 2022, at the Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

On Saturday, August 27, 2022, friends may call from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a wake service at 9:30 a.m. and funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Visitors will be required to show proof of vaccination or wear a mask. COVID safety measures may change depending on the current situation.

Sister Mary Dennis, daughter of Raymond and Joann (Collins), was born Elizabeth Ann Lentsch on January 15, 1937, in Vincent, Iowa.  She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Clare, Iowa, on September 8, 1954, and professed her perpetual vows on August 22, 1962.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College (now Clarke University) in Dubuque, Iowa, and a Master of Science from Pittsburg State in Pittsburg, Kansas.

Sister Mary Dennis taught science and math in Osage, Charles City, Mason City, Dubuque, Waterloo, all in Iowa, and in Winona, Minnesota. After 25 years of teaching, her ministry took her to rural Appalachia, where she worked in non-profit organizations in east Tennessee, offering empowerment and advocacy. She actively worked for a nuclear-free future, ministered in the Diocese of Knoxville Office of Peace, Justice and Integrity of Creation and offered hospitality for homeless people in New Orleans, Louisiana. Sister Mary Dennis was passionate about peace and justice issues, not just by verbally supporting them, but by participating in several non-violent protests, some of which yielded jail and prison time for her. She celebrated her 60^th Jubilee in 2014 and retired to Mount Loretto in 2020. Sister Mary Dennis would like to be remembered as a woman who made every effort to cooperate with grace in joyfully living the Gospel of Jesus.  She valued prayer and community service.

Surviving are her sisters, Maureen Hobart and Rowena White, nieces, nephews, and her Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 68 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law, Raynette and Jim Derksen, her brother, Dennis, and her brothers-in-law Pat Hobart and Jim White.

Sister Mary Dennis has donated her body to the University of Iowa for medical education and research. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting.

Jackie D. Potter

Jackie D. “Jack” Potter, 76, of Clinton, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Sunday, August 14, 2022, at MercyOne Medical Center in Clinton, Iowa.

A graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held 3 P.M., Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at the Canton, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Jackie Dean “Jack” Potter was born on May 8, 1946 in Canton, Iowa, the youngest of seven boys to Melvin Arnold and Esther Emma (Smith) Potter.  He grew up in the Canton area and attended school there.  He married Marilyn Clark.  One child was born from this union, Eugene.

“Jack” had worked at odd jobs throughout his life as well as working as a lineman on the highline for L.E. Myers for several years.  He was known for always waving and walking around town.  He enjoyed mushroom hunting, watching western television shows, and fishing, especially for catfish and carp.

Those left to honor his memory include a son, Eugene Potter; a grandchild, Samantha; several nieces and nephews; and his caregiver, Dawn Harland.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and 6 brothers Freddie, Robert, Arnold, Raymond, Ronald, and Sidney.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Stanley V. Benischek

Stanley V. “Stan” Benischek, 89, of Maquoketa, and formerly Davenport and Oxford Junction, Iowa, passed away on Sunday morning, August 14, 2022, at Crestridge Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Stanley’s life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Monday, August 22, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Mayflower Cemetery, Oxford Junction, Iowa.

Stanley Victor Benischek was born on May 8, 1933 in Oxford Junction, Iowa to Albert and Tillie (Tatak) Benischek.  He was born and raised on the family farm in rural Oxford Junction.  He attended Burr Oak Country School (a one room schoolhouse), and then graduated from Lost Nation High School.  He moved to Davenport shortly thereafter to raise a family.  He married Janet M. Andresen on June 11, 1975 in Rockton, Illinois.

“Stan” had worked for 32 years at Oscar Meyer in Davenport and for over 20 years as a realtor specializing in Farms and Commercial Real Estate with Mel Foster Co. and Re/Max.  He also was the co-owner of a meat locker near Peoria, Illinois.

“Stan” was of the Catholic faith.  He was a longtime member and past president of the Izaak Walton League, Davenport Chapter.  Additionally, he was a member of the Scott County Soil and Water Commission.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, family vacations, and cookouts with friends and family.  He especially enjoyed watching grandchildren’s sporting events, Go-Karts, and later Stock car racing.  He was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, both football and basketball, and thoroughly enjoyed watching basketball games with his wife, family, and other friends who would join them.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Mark (Donna) Benischek of Davenport, IA, Gregory Benischek of Durant, IA, and John (Gretl) Benischek of FL; a foster son, Dr. Gordon (Linda) Pointer of Davenport, IA; 2 grandchildren; a brother Paul (June) Benischek of Anamosa, IA; and sisters, Rita Chapel of Boulder, CO, and Marlene Werden of Winona, MN.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Janet on July 30, 2020, brothers George, Raymond, and Otto, and sisters Elsie and Pauline.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Stanley V. “Stan” Benischek memorial fund has been established.

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

Eleanor R. Manternach

Eleanor Ruth Manternach, infant daughter of Isaac and Lauren Manternach was born on August 13, 2022, at 4:36 am at MercyOne in Dubuque, and went to her eternal home.

A private memorial service will be held for immediate family at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington.

Eleanor’s loved ones include her parents, Isaac and Lauren, and sister Elizabeth of Worthington; paternal grandparents, Brent and Ruth Manternach of Worthington; maternal grandparent, Carla Gibbons (Randy Mesch) of Dubuque; aunt Kelsey Nank and cousins Emma, Isaiah, Elijah, and Amelia Nank of Dyersville; and uncles Sam and Luke Manternach of Worthington. We were all waiting for Eleanor with joyful expectations (especially sister Elizabeth), and her presence will be greatly missed on earth.

Our angel baby Eleanor was preceded in death by her brother Theodore James Manternach and her maternal grandfather, James Joseph Gibbons.

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart” (Jeremiah 1:5).  Fly high with the angels little one, we love you more than you will ever know and look forward to being with you and Theodore someday.

We want to thank Dr. O’Donnell, Dr. Kramer and Nurse Kelly at Medical Associates Clinic and Nurses Lisa and Madeline in Labor and Delivery at MercyOne Hospital for their special care, compassion, and selective attention.

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

Sonny Basten

Sonny (John J.) Basten 60 of Galena, IL passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 14, 2022, at Midwest Medical Center, Galena. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Monday, August 22, 2022, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 1 to 4 PM, on Sunday, August 21, 2022, at the funeral chapel. Burial will be in Prospect Hill Cemetery, rural Galena.

Sonny was born in Cuba City, WI on 10/26/61 to James and Deloris (Bartell) Basten. He grew up in Aiken, rural Galena, and graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1979. Sonny married his high school sweetheart Mary Kay Bussan on May 9, 1981, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena. He took the city out of Mary Kay to make her his long-time hunting and fishing partner. Sonny worked at Kelly Springfield (Titan) Tire Company in Freeport, IL retiring in 2016. He had a great passion for the outdoors and enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, boating, gardening, bullshitting, and watching the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Bears. Sonny especially loved spending time with his family and grandkids. He called his grandkids every night to check on them. Sonny enjoyed hosting gatherings at his family cabin on the river. Sonny was a member of the Dubuque Bass Club and volunteered for the Galena High School Bass Fishing Team to help his two oldest grandkids. He was excited to pass down his legacy of hunting and fishing to his children and grandchildren.

Sonny is survived by his wife of 41 years Mary Kay, two sons, Jim (Brittni), and Bucky (Tasha), two daughters, Jen (James) Trebian, and Babe (Nick) Timmerman, nine grandchildren, Ally and Ivy, Dylan, Jackson, & Camaryn, Emma and Eva, Sutton and Blaine, and his beloved dog Goose, his siblings, Tom (Rosemary) Basten, Tracy Frank, Ron, Jerry, Jim, and Randy (Elvira) Heim and his in-laws, Dan (Mary) Bussan, Diann (John) Binninger, Tom (Nancy) Bussan, Donald (Ellen) Bussan, Bob and Philip Bussan, and Shirley (John) Earl, along with many nieces, nephews, and his long-time friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Philip and Ann Marie Bussan, a grandson Colin, and two sisters Deb and Jan.

The family would like to send a special thank you to Dr. Vandigo, Galena EMS, and the staff at Midwest Medical Center.

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

Kathleen Schmitt

Kathleen “Kay” Schmitt, 81, of Rickardsville, died Saturday, August 13, 2022, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm Monday, August 15, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kay will be 10:30 am Tuesday, August 16, 2022, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Rickardsville with Father Tyler Raymond as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery – Rickardsville.

Kathleen was born April 29, 1941, in Holy Cross, IA, the daughter of Sabin C. and Lavena L. Duster Cook. On September 3, 1960, she married the love of her life, James Matthew Schmitt in Holy Cross, IA.  Together they farmed in Rickardsville where they raised their family.

She was always a caretaker from being the oldest of 11 children, and then raising her own children to working as a CNA at Stonehill Care Center.  She was gentle and kind and always instilled the values of kindness, faith and hospitality to all she encountered.  Kay enjoyed scrapbooking, dancing, bowling, card playing and spending time with her family and friends.  Kay was also the family photographer and never let a moment go un-captured.

Survivors include her husband Jim; five children, Sue (Dale) Wilgenbusch of Rickardsville, Randy (Theresa) Schmitt of Sussex, WI, John (Tracy) Schmitt of Asbury, Amy (Ron) Moser of Rickardsville, Angie (Andy) Katrichis of Rickardsville; 12 grandchildren, Matt (Keesha), Anna (Laith), Nick (Nicole), Megan, Cal, Allison, Wesley, Morgan, Kristina (Julian), Bella, Brady, and Connor; three great grandchildren, Macy, Mia, Oliver; siblings, Janet (Richard) Schmitt, Shirley (Art) Coleman, Ken Cook, Linda ( James) Markham, Dorothy (Chuck) Kane, Don (Cheryl) Cook, Steve (Paula) Cook, Tina (Kurt) Burbach, Mary (Tom) Reeg; in-laws, Leo Oberoeckling, Andrew Ploessl, Del Rose Schmitt, Kathleen Schmitt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister Carolyn Oberbroeckling and in-laws Bev Cook, Robert Schmitt, Mary Ploessl and Paul Schmitt.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for LaSalle Catholic School, Hospice of Dubuque, and Stonehill Care Center

A special thank you to Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care.

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