Obituaries Archive

Beverly Jordan

Beverly (Waldron) Jordan, 90 Years, of Dubuque, died on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Beverly will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Father Bob Gross as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery in Ayrshire, IA, at a later date.

Beverly was born at her home in Ayrshire on April 30, 1934, the daughter of Ray and Clara (Hanish) Waldron. On February 4, 1967, she married Robert J. Jordan in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on July 30, 2020.

Beverly graduated from Silver Lake High School in Ayrshire, IA in 1951. Beverly received a full scholarship to St. Mary of the Woods from the owner of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Music with a minor in Italian and English in 1955. After graduation, she starting teaching in Laurens, Spencer, Whittemore, Cedar Rapids, and finally in Dubuque until retiring from teaching in 1974. Beverly enjoyed running her own garden and greenhouse for the last 50 years. She was an active member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Survivors include her two children, William (Susan) Jordan of Dubuque, and Jackie (Sharat) Jordan-Ramaraju of Bettendorf, IA; three step-children, Pat (Lucy) Jordan of Omaha, NE, Jim (Sue) Jordan of Omaha, NE, and Rosemary Jordan of Bettendorf, IA; 11 grandchildren, Allison, Adam, William, Christopher, Nikhil, Sophia, Jason, Jennifer, Celeste, Austin, and Greg; sister-in-law, Kay Waldron of Ayrshire, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Beverly was preceded in death by her three siblings, Peter Waldron, Edward Waldron, and Sharon Schenatzki; and her step-son, Jon Jordan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque, for their amazing care. Her neighbor, Barb Trifone, St. Columbkille volunteers, and those who extended her friendship.

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

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

Samuel J. Schmelzer

Samuel Joseph Schmelzer, 76, of Asbury, IA passed away on January 25, 2025 at Grand Meadows Senior Living surrounded by his immediate family.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. in Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on Friday, January 31, 2025 at The Church of the Resurrection where Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until the time of Mass. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery where Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #6 of Dubuque.

Samuel was born on March 24, 1948, the son of Joseph and Anita (Berns) Schmelzer, and he was raised on the family farm near Garnavillo, IA. Sam was the oldest of 13 children. He graduated from Garnavillo High School in 1966 and attended UW-Platteville for 1 year. He enlisted in the U.S. Army completing his Basic Training at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. Sergeant Schmelzer served as a Medic, doing two Tours in Vietnam during his three years of service in the U.S. Army. He valued his travel throughout Southeast Asia, Australia, Hawaii, and Europe.

He was united in marriage to Sarah Tauke on November 24, 1972. Together they adopted two daughters, Amy Jin from Korea and Angela from within the State of Iowa.

Sam was employed by Deere and Co. for 30 years where he primarily focused on CNC machining, quality control, and engine assembly.  Following his time at Deere, he was employed by the City of Dubuque Parks Dept. for 10 years.

He enjoyed watching sports and was always present at his daughters’ activities. He was a family man and took great pride in both his children and his grandsons.

He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection where he also volunteered in numerous capacities. Sam also volunteered with Meals on Wheels, Reflections in the Park, Hospice of Dubuque, Hurricane Katrina Relief Effort, National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, and the Veterans Freedom Center. Sam was privileged to go on an Honor Flight in 2016.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah; His daughters, Amy Jin Schmelzer of Dubuque, and Angie (Jason) Steffen of Cedar Falls; grandchildren, Parker and Mason Steffen of Cedar Falls; siblings, Mary Schmelzer of Iowa City, Mike (Sharon) Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Tom (Diane) Schmelzer of Edgewood, Tim (Kathy) Schmelzer of Elkader, Margaret (Bruce) Matt of Lone Tree, Susan Schmelzer of Garnavillo, Anna (Dave) Elder of Iowa City, Donna (Kurt) Franks of Postville, Ellen (Joe) Claeys of Iowa City, Laurie (Jim) Orth of Lewiston MN.; sisters-in-law Nancy Schmelzer of Elkader, Lois Tauke of Cascade; and many nieces, nephews, and other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Dan Schmelzer and Tony Schmelzer; his father and mother-in-law Clete and Jeanette Tauke; and brother-in-law, Bob Tauke.

The family wishes to thank the Grand Meadows community, Hospice of Dubuque, and all Sam’s friends and family for their support.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be directed to Church of the Resurrection, Veterans Freedom Center, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Lynn Feltes

Lynn Strohmeyer Feltes, 77, of Dubuque died on January 27, 2025 at 10:56 am.  Visitation will be from 9:15 to 10:15 am Saturday, February 1, 2025 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church followed by a Mass of Christian Burial Saturday at 10:30.

She is survived by her husband, David Feltes; her four children, Lisa Feltes, Jim (Kimberly) Feltes, John (Triska) Feltes and Dan (Erin) Feltes; eight grandchildren; her sister, Karen (Roger) Stromeyer Earle and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, LaVerne “Bill” and Rita Neyens Strohmeyer.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

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

Duane A. Priebe

Duane Allen Priebe, 90, of Dubuque, IA,  passed away on January 22, 2025 in the company of family and friends.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025 at Wartburg Seminary, 333 Wartburg Pl, Dubuque, IA 52003.

An additional visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday February 1, 2025 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. A Funeral Service will start following the visitation at 10:30 a.m. at the Church with Pastor Will Layton officiating. He will be reunited with his beloved wife to rest eternally together at the Church cemetery. The Funeral Service will be livestreamed via the church’s FaceBook page. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Duane was born on June 29th, 1934, in Rhinelander, WI, to Christlieb and Lila Priebe, Duane grew up in Rhinelander and St. Paul before his family finally settled in Seattle, WA. He attended the University of Washington where his passion for aviation motivated him to become a private pilot. His deep curiosity about the workings of the universe led him to earn his BS in physics and sparked a love for the natural world, hiking in the mountains of the Pacific Northwest and working as a fire lookout for the forest service.

After a year working as an Aero Research Engineer for NASA, he felt called to serve in the church. A committed physicist, Duane chose to focus his study of the universe through theology, earning his B.D. in 1961 from Luther Seminary and his Doctor of Theology in 1965 from the School of Theology at Claremont.

After a brief stint as pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Garrison, North Dakota, and Director of the Great Plains Institute of Theology, Western North Dakota District, American Lutheran Church, he began what would become a 47-year term of service to Wartburg Seminary, and the global Christian community.

Duane Traveled to Germany where he studied under Wolfhart Pannenberg (later translating Pannenberg’s Jesus: God and Man), making Pannenberg’s work available to the English-speaking world. He ventured to Namibia, Asia, South America and his favorite, Papua New Guinea exploring the value of Christian theology in different cultural contexts. He developed a reputation among his colleagues as a Christ-centered mystic who taught by surgically querying his students. The light and love of God always shown through him, bringing grace to everyone he knew.

On August 7 th , 1960, Duane married his true love, Kathleen McKillop, who shared his adventures (sometimes more willingly than others) for 57 years. He was a caring father to Christopher and David, as well as their respective wives, Jerri and Amy. He was a loving grandfather to Andrew, Christopher (Meghan), Kytana (Katie), and Alyssa (Craig). He even met his great-grandchildren, Sophie and Avery.

Bobby Lee Hattula

Bobby Lee Hattula, 65, of Dubuque, IA, passed away January 24, 2025.

A visitation will be held Friday January 31, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Dubuque, IA, a Funeral Service will follow at 12:30 p.m. with Rev. Jonathan Crawford officiating. Burial and Military Honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6 to follow at Linwood Cemetery.

He was born on March 25, 1959, in Chicago, IL, to Carl and Margaret (Kramer) Hattula. He married Diana Witt on October 12, 1979, in Freeport, IL.

Bobby worked for the Packing House Sanitation until it’s closure. He owned and operated TRUFORM Construction and Hauling. He served many residents of Dubuque County until his retirement. He served in the US Navy- Great Lakes.

Bobby was a master of music, he wrote over 200 songs, recorded many, and played the guitar like no other. He played with great emotion. He taught guitar lessons and played the banjo, mandolin, bass and piano. He was a recording artist with great hits like “Mayfly”, “Thinking and Drinking”, “Tell Me Lady” and numerous others. Bobby played in such bands as Maximum Volume, Rock and Roar, and The OL’Folkies as a lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist. He played at various events, bars, and open jams in the tri-state area. He loved a campfire and music. He also had a gift of woodworking, he could make anything out of wood, including many of the guitars he played. Bobby enjoyed gardening, working in the soil, fishing and anything relaxing that included the outdoors. He was an avid kayaker who enjoyed the atmosphere of nature, peace, and internal self-reflection. He worked hard and put his all into everything he did. He was a people person who always looked to help those in need.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years Diana; his children, Amanda Trotman, Heidi (TJ) Pickering, William (Jennifer Sheldon) Hattula; his grandchildren, Nickolas, Jackson, Maxwell, Alyssa, Bridget, and Abigail; his siblings, Mary, Pat, Karl, and John; his brother and sisters-in-law Rick and Sue Witt, Robert and Teri Elmer, David and Cathy Price, Chad and Barb Lessman, Willie and Tammy Love, Mike Witt, Randy and Sarah Witt, Nate and Stephanie Swalve; along with his many nieces and nephews and lifelong friends.

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents and stepdad Robert Hancock; his brothers, Charles and Bill; sisters, Sharon and Joy; in-laws, Richard and Darlene Witt; siblings-in-law Dwayne Paul, Carl Paterson, David Myer and Cynthia Witt; niece Deb Perkins; nephew Russell Paul, Larry and Tony Price, and Devon Lessman.

He leaves behind many musicians who kept a song in his heart.

In lieu of flowers a memorial for Bobby Hattula has been established.

The family would like to express a thank you to the Dubuque Fire Department, the Dubuque Police Department, Donna Kluesner and Leonard Funeral Home for their compassionate service.

Margaret E. Hayden

Margaret Emma Hayden, more commonly known as Marnie, was born March 13th, 1950, in Newcastle Upon Tyne, England. She passed away on January 22nd, 2025, at the age of 74 in Dubuque, Iowa. She was the eldest child of Peter and Gertrude Birkett and is survived by her daughter, Lorna Meierbachtol, son-in-law Bernd Meierbachtol, and twin granddaughters Penelope and Amalia. Her siblings are William, Peter, David, Mary, and Thomas Birkett.

Marnie attended Hull University and almost had a career in law but plans changed when she met her future husband, Michael Hayden. They managed pubs in London together until their divorce in the early 1980s. In 1985 she immigrated to the United States and joined her family in Stamford, CT. She quickly established roots in the community and started work at a publishing company. Marnie’s next job took her to Nine West Group shoe company where she worked her way up from Administrative Assistant to Vice President of Facilities. She accomplished one of her greatest career achievements by moving the entire company from their headquarters in Stamford to a new location in White Plains, NY, an enormous undertaking. She also assisted in the relocation and closure of the US Shoe Group offices based in Ohio. Later she transitioned to a facilities role at International Paper, where she similarly undertook the challenging task to move their corporate offices from Connecticut to Tennessee. After her corporate career she focused on helping others, from caretaking her grandchildren in California to teaching English as a second language to working with young children in her adopted home of Dubuque.

Marnie was one of the kindest and welcoming people you’d ever meet. From being the consummate big sister to all her siblings, to her time in the south of France as an au pair, she doted on all children big and small. She adored all her nieces and nephews, grandchildren, and any baby she could get her hands on. Her infectious sense of humor assured you a follow-up quote or laugh whenever Monty Python or Fawlty Towers were involved. You would often find her reading, especially her favorites, fantasy and science fiction. She loved traveling to spend time with family in Europe, and also to her very favorite beach resort, the Pink Shell, in Fort Myers Beach, FL.

A funeral mass will take place at Our Lady Star of the Sea in Stamford, CT on February 15th at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.

Jesse J. Schiesl

Jesse James Schiesl, 39, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; setting sail on his final voyage listening to Lynyrd Skynyrd, “Tuesday’s Gone,” while surrounded by his dearest family and friends.

To honor Jesse’s life, visitation will be on Friday, January 31st from 3:00pm – 7:00pm, followed by a sharing of cherished memories at 7:00pm at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. A prayer service will take place at 10:00a.m., Saturday, Feburary 1, 2025 at the funeral home, followed by a procession to Mount Olivet Cemetery where Jesse will be laid to rest.

Jesse was born on November 11th, 1985, in Dubuque, IA, to his parents, William and Patricia (Becker) Schiesl. He attended Eisenhower elementary and graduated from Hempstead High School, Class of 2004. Jesse was united in marriage to Brooke O’Malley on June 19, 2021. Together they welcomed a son, Landon William. Jesse was a devoted father, a beloved uncle, and a proud godfather who brought joy and love to everyone around him.

Jesse cherished his childhood friendships while also having a natural ability of making acquaintances with fellow coworkers and strangers wherever he went. As the king of fun and adventure, during his younger years, Jesse enjoyed playing hockey and spent the spring, summer, and fall riding his BMX bike; where he gained many lifelong friends. In the winters you could find him snowboarding or snowmobiling in the mountains. Summer months were spent in the sun as he captained his boat on the Mississippi River.

Jesse had a vibrant, outgoing personality. Before deciding which social event to attend, he would often ask his close friends, “Who’s all there?” He will be fondly remembered by his family, coworkers, and his lively social friend circle for his smile and laugh. He was truly a friend to all.

Jesse was a skilled craftsman and could do anything he put his mind to. He was extremely generous in sharing his talents with family and friends, always lending a helping hand. From an early age, Jesse knew he was destined to follow in his father’s footsteps and became an electrical lineman in 2005. Graduating from Northwest Iowa Community College, he was a proud union lineman with IBEW Local 55 for 18 years. Jesse worked on many electrical power infrastructure projects across the country, at times tethered from a helicopter, and proudly assisting in disaster relief projects restoring power to ravished communities.

Jesse is survived by his mother, Patti; and sister Sarah (Jake Sabers) Schiesl family. He is also survived by loving family and close friends, leaving behind cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of many.

Jesse was preceded in death by his father, William Schiesl, his grandparents Marcella & Francis Becker and James & Mary Jo Schiesl; uncles Richard Becker and Thomas Schiesl; and cousins Lindsey Becker, Mary Beth Schumacher, Christine Schumacher, and Timothy Schumacher.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mercy One Hospital & Staff, UIHC AirCare3 & Crew, the University of Iowa Hospital and Staff, and to Jesse’s lifelong friend, Alexis Becker for providing loving and compassionate medical care during his final journey home.

Heaven has gained a good one, Jesse will be sure to “light” it up.

In lieu of flowers, a Jesse Schiesl Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences can be left for family and friends at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Donald W. Lau

Donald W. “Don” Lau, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Ennoble Nursing and Rehab in Dubuque. Friends may call from 9:00-10:45 a.m. on Monday February 3, 2025 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1755 Delhi St. in Dubuque. Funeral service will be held at 11:00 am at the church. Pastor Jason Davis will officiate. Click here to view the livestream of the funeral service for Donald Lau: https://vimeo.com/event/4876737. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Don was born November 8, 1930 in Shelbina, Missouri, son of Roland and Mabel (Crandal) Lau and was raised in Cedar Falls, IA. He was a graduate of Cedar Falls High School, class of 1948. Don married Ellen (Donovan) Crane on March 30, 1978 in Dubuque.

Don worked at Kiowa Corp. in Marshalltown, IA as a tool and die designer from 1950-1956. Then he was employed at Amana Refrigeration in Middle Amana, IA as a layout draftsman and drafting checker from 1956-1962. Upon moving to Dubuque in 1962, Don worked at John Deere Dubuque Works as a senior tractor designer until 1984. He was a member of the design team for the first JD544 and JD644 four wheel drive front end loaders.

After retirement, Don worked for 19 years at Sundown Mountain in Dubuque as a ski instructor on the A Team.

Don was a member of Dubuque Rifle and Pistol Club since 1966. Don founded the Thursday Morning John Deere Retiree Golf League at Lacoma in 1987 and remained an active member for 30 years. In his younger years his leisure activities were hunting, fishing, bowling, golfing and photography. He enjoyed having weekly coffee and conversation with his retiree friends. Don loved traveling with his wife, Ellen. He especially enjoyed Hawaii, ski trips out West and the National Parks. He found joy in spending time with his family, especially at the many cherished holidays hosted by his daughter Marianne. Don was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church since 1990.

Survivors include his loving wife of 46 years, Ellen Lau; his three children: Marianne (Thomas) Lytle, David (Susan) Lau and Karen Lau, all of Dubuque; his four granddaughters: Lindsay (Jesse) Drew, Abbey (Brad Van Weelden) Lytle and Stephanie (Adam) Aleshire, all of the Des Moines area, and Ashley Lau (fiance Matt Lester) of Dubuque; six great-grandchildren: Eva, Presley, Waylon, Landry, Willow and Odin; his nephew Mark (Jamie) Lau of Kerrville, TX, his niece Ann (Gregg) Hatch of Orem, UT and nephew Dan Lau; his sister-in-law Ann Donovan Panek and her children Robert Panek, Annette Dee, Lisa Francese, Melinda Panek and David Panek all of Southern California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his dear brother Dale Lau and his sister-in-law Carol J. Lau of Green Valley, AZ.

The family would like to thank the staff of Ennoble Nursing and Rehab, Don’s Hospice of Dubuque nurses Diane and Jamie, Don’s long-time Doctor, Brian Sullivan, and also Don’s many friends at Oak Park Place.

In lieu of flowers or plants, a Donald Lau Memorial Fund has been established.

Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

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

Perry S. Pickel

Perry S. Pickel, age 59, of Dubuque, IA, passed away suddenly on January 25, 2025.  To honor Perry’s life, a private family service will be held at the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Perry’s family.

Perry was born on February 13, 1965, in Dubuque, IA, son to Kenneth and Elizabeth (Burbach) Pickel.  He was naturally gifted with an entrepreneurial spirit and a zest for life, which when coupled with his strong work ethic and love for family and friends, Perry was able to make the most of each day that was presented to him.  He attended Southwestern High School in Hazel Green and took great pride in sharing his time and talents on the football field.  Perry always enjoyed being outdoors and loved to grill. Many memories were made on the River of Lakes in Bagley, the Mississippi River and at Apple Canyon Lake.  When Perry was taking advantage of his free-time while surrounded by his family and friends, all was right with the world.

Perry was honored to be able to coach his son’s baseball teams when they were young and even with running multiple businesses, he continually made time for his family a priority.  He was a diehard Green Bay Packers fan and never turned down the opportunity to give a Bears fan a hard time.  Perry was also a committed Euchre player and not only was he a loyal partner at the table, but he was always good for a couple of tricks when necessary.  Perry was a reserved man by nature, but if a little socializing with the neighbors was on the agenda for the day, he was sure to embrace the moments and make sure that his quality time was always time well spent.  It’s difficult to imagine a world moving forward without Perry’s bright light shining among us.  His sudden absence is almost more than our hearts can bear and we pray that in time both peace and comfort will find their way into our minds.  Thank you, Perry, for leading by example, living life on your terms, and for simply being you.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms as we now wait patiently to see your sincere and joyful smile again in time.

Those left to cherish the memory of Perry include,

his loving wife,
Laura Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

his two sons,
Nathan (Alison) Pickel, Dubuque, IA,
and Nicholas Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Avery Geisler, Winston Pickel, Reagan Pickel, Rowan Pickel, Aislyn Pickel, and Peyton Pickel;

his mother,
Elizabeth Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Rhonda (Roger) Schultz, Cary, IL,
Mark (Kathy) Pickel, Hazen Green, WI,
and Jeff (Katie) Pickel, Martell, IA;

his mother-in-law,
Jean Brosius, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Tom (Valerie) Brosius, Moline, IL,
JoAnne (Tim) Flynn, Dubuque, IA,
Mike (Robin) Brosius, Dubuque, IA,
Betty (Doug) Heil, Dubuque, IA,
Dan (Dawn) Brosius, Dubuque, IA,
Ron (Carla) Brosius, Peosta, IA,
John (Sparkle) Brosius, Madison, WI,
Jim (Becca) Brosius, Dubuque, IA,
and Greg (Trisha) Brosius, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Perry was preceded in death by his father, Ken Pickel; his farther-in-law, Edward Brosius; many aunts and uncles and a niece, Leah Brosius.

Perry’s family would like to thank everyone with the Dubuque Police and Fire Departments, the Dubuque County Medical Examiner’s Office, and Paramount Ambulance for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.

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

Robert A. Patters, Jr.

Robert “Bob” A. Patters, Jr., 81, of Dubuque, died Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation for Bob will be from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West, IA, where full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Mid-Atlantic Region Navy Honor Guard. A Celebration of Life will be from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at American Legion #6, 1306 Delhi Street.

Bob was born on March 31, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert Sr. and M. Eileen (Konzen) Patters.

Bob graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1962.

Bob worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 36 years, retiring as a supervisor.

Bob served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era from 1962 until 1966. Bob was very proud of his service and belonged to American Legion Post #6. He was also a member of NRA, Elks Lodge #297, where he was a Past Exalted Ruler, and was a Road Captain for the Mighty Mississippi HOG Chapter. He loved being outdoors, especially camping, riding his motorcycle, golfing, and trap shooting with the Izaak Walton League.

Survivors include his daughter, Jean (Larry Goodale) Yohnke; four grandchildren, Abigail Patters, Alex Patters, Brenda (Jonathan ) Herr, and Katie (Justin Lewis) Yohnke; two brothers, Gary Patters, Sr. and Jay (Anne) Patters; sister-in-law, Rita Patters; special friend, Patti; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; son, Daniel; one brother, Richard Patters; and his beloved dog, Brandy.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

James M. Wagner

James M. Wagner, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:46 a.m., on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at Mercy One Medical Center.  To honor Jim’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 until 7:00p.m. on Thursday at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street, Dubuque.  Funeral services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday at St. Patrick’s Church, with Very Rev. Dennis J. Quint officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery with Military Honors accorded by Dubuque American Legion Dubuque Post 6. Behr Funeral Home is assisting Jim’s family.

Jim was born on May 12, 1948, in Hazel Green, WI, son of Lloyd and Marie (Neyens) Wagner.
He attended Sacred Heart School and Dubuque Senior High School.

Jim married the love of his life, Cheri Ludowitz, on August 24, 1968 at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.
He was drafted into the service served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1968 to 1970. Jim was life-long resident of Dubuque and worked as a salesman for Myers-Cox for over 30 years. Jim was a proud veteran and a hero in every sense of the word.  His dedication to his country and those who served, in all branches of the military, were evident every day of his life.  Jim was a proud member of St. Patrick’s Church, Tri-State Vietnam Vets, the American Legion and the DAV.

Since his time in the Army, like many, Jim has had struggles over the years and an understanding of the struggles of others in similar situations.  Jim had a way with making others comfortable enough to open up to him.  Jim always had an ear or a shoulder available to anyone in need.  Jim recognized a need that was not being met for fellow veterans and began welcoming them to his tiny garage workshop.  People would stop by for a chat, to say hello or use him as a sounding board for any situation.  As word got out about Jim’s willingness to help, his garage quickly became too small.  Jim teamed up with his best friend, Al Rowell, to advocate for all veterans and they soon saw a need for a space that was larger and open regular hours to encourage the comradery that our vets were needing. The larger space became the Veterans Freedom Center.  As the Center continued to grow, they continued to add services for our community veterans.  Jim’s life and their Legacy are exemplified in the Veteran’s Freedom Center and everything it stands for.

In his younger days, Jim enjoyed a good game of golf.  His love of fishing and old cars were hobbies that he enjoyed for most of his life.  He continued to share the things he loved with his fellow veterans by organizing rides and rallies to benefit veterans and taking groups who could not get out on the water to enjoy a day fishing.

Jim’s shoes are too big for any one person to fill, there will only ever be one “Wags”, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those in our community he has touched.  His loss and his enthusiasm to help others will be felt by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish Jim’s memory include his wife of 56 years, Cheri Wagner, Dubuque, IA;
his daughters, Tammy (T.J.) Maas, Bluff City, TN and Crystal (Jeremy) Campbell, Dubuque, IA;
his grandchildren, McKenzie and William Maas and Cali Bockenstedt; his sisters, Judy (Bill) Burbach, Kieler, WI, Phyllis (Terry Tigges) Murphy, Dubuque, IA; his brothers, Tom (Ami) Wagner, Dubuque, IA, Norb (Connie) Wagner, Warsaw, MO; his in-laws, Dianne (Lyle) Harris, Kathy (Dick) Schuster, Roxy Pickel, Danny (Laura) Ludowitz, Randy (Rose) Ludowitz and Peter Ludowitz.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Nancy Wagner, a sister-in-law, Sherry Ludowitz, and 2 brothers-in-law, Tom Murphy and Denny Pickel.

Jim’s family would like to thank the Dubuque 911 Call Center, Dubuque Fire and Ambulance, Mercy One Medical Center and his family at the Veterans Freedom Center for all of their care and outpouring of support.

Jim lived by the motto- “Live in such a way that if someone spoke badly of you, no one would believe it.”

Cards and memorials in Jim’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. James Wagner Family.

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

Ralph P. Weiss, III

Ralph Peter Weis, III passed away on January 26, 2025 in his hometown of Dubuque, IA after a short but courageous battle against cancer. He was 68 years old.

Peter was born on December 12, 1956 in Dubuque, IA to Ralph and Carolyn (Cosley) Weis. He attended St. Columbkille Catholic Elementary School and Wahlert Catholic High School. He married Molly Sutton on August 28th, 1981.

Peter spent over fifty years working at Interstate Pipe & Supply Company. Founded in 1960 by his father, Peter began working there in high school. He took full ownership after the untimely death of his brother Skip. For the past twenty years he’s continued to run the business with the integrity and values instilled in him by his father. The doors of IPASCO will remain open, with his daughter Lauren continuing on with the family business.

Peter was a founding member and former Commander of the local chapter of the Sons of the American Legion (SAL) and served the best scrambled eggs in town at their benefit breakfasts. He was a member of 660 Club of the Dubuque Shooting Society, a member of The Dubuque Golf & Country Club and a former member of The Elks Club of Dubuque. He was a devout parishioner at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Over the years he served on parish council, grilled hamburgers for church picnics and ran the annual golf outing. Peter was a talented athlete. He loved basketball and spent many of his nights down at the YMCA when he was younger. He also played slow, modified and fast pitch softball. Later in life he took up golf and enjoyed it as much as any golfer can actually “enjoy” the sport. Lifelong memories were made during summer golf trips and in golf events with his wife and their friends. Peter also shot pool and played in various leagues throughout the years. Some of Peter’s other hobbies included a quiet game of chess with his good friend Rev. Gabriel Anderson, reading detective fiction, and cheering for (yelling at) the Green Bay Packers and New York Yankees. He was also a talented cook and spent many nights at the grill or in the kitchen cooking up a storm for his family.

He is survived by his wife Mary “Molly” Weis, his daughter Lauren (Kurtis) Peterson and his three beloved granddaughters Tia, Hadley and Carolyn all of Dubuque, IA. Also surviving are his two sisters Linda “Dolly” Steinman of Delray Beach, FL and Susan “Suzy” (Glen) Koelker of Dubuque, IA and his brother’s daughter’s Jennifer (Jeff) Manders and Ashli Weis both of Boynton Beach, FL. He is also survived by his in-laws Katherine “Kathy” Cullen, Nicholas (Susan) Sutton, Sarah Sutton and other nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews and other family.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Carolyn Weis, his in-laws, Nicholas and Gertrude Sutton, Brother, Marc “Skip” Weis, Brothers in law, Thomas Steinman and Thomas Cullen, and niece Ciara Cullen.

Visitation is from 3:00-7:00pm on Wednesday January 29th at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 am on January 30th at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

A Ralph Peter Weis Memorial Fund has been established.

Molly and Lauren want to take a moment to thank the incredible doctors, nurses and staff at the UW Health University Hospital for their care and compassion during his battle. They also want to thank Hospice of Dubuque for helping make Peter’s final days peaceful and comfortable. A heartfelt thank you to all the Road Warriors who drove Peter to and from Madison appointments week after week and to everyone who sent cards and goodies over the past few months. Finally, to Peter’s employees down at Interstate Pipe, the doors would’ve never remained open without them.

Kathleen V. Funke

Kathleen V. Funke, 90, of Dyersville and formerly of Worthington passed away Sunday, January 26, 2025, at MercyOne Medical Center, in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9-10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to the mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 31, 2025, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington with burial in the church cemetery.

Kathleen was born May 30, 1934, in Farley the daughter of Eugene and Katherine (Oberbroeckling) Hoefer.  She married L. Donald Funke on April 12, 1955, in Farley.  Together they farmed in the Worthington area.  Her passions were family, children and flowers.

Survivors include her children, James of Worthington, Mary (Rick) Leuchs of Dyersville, Lori (Dave) Klein of Durango and Ann (Bill) Specht of Sherrill; grandchildren: Trisha (Dave) Blaser and Traci (significant other, Josh) Leuchs, Katie Specht, Jonathan Specht, Kevin (significant other, Rachel) Klein;great grandchildren: Jade, Madisyn, Landon and Ellie Kate Blaser; a brother, Bill (Anna Mae) Hoefer of Marion; in-laws: Kay Funke of Monticello and Rose Funke of Dyersville.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 1993, siblings: Genevieve Regan, Clara Keuhn, Maurice Hoefer, John Hoefer, Charlie Hoefer, Helen Haberman; in-laws: Gilbert Funke, Delores Sabers, Laverne Funke, Irma Hess, Grace Link, Norma Link, Lucille Kelchen, Eldon Funke and Marvin Funke.

The family would like to thank the staffs at MercyOne Medical Center in Dyersville and Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent care,

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Richard J. Spautz

Richard J. Spautz, age 78, of Dubuque, passed away at 7:55 a.m., on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at home.  To honor Richard’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Deacon David Roth officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery with military rites accorded by Dubuque American Legion Post 6.

Dick was born on September 20, 1946, in Dubuque, son of Robert and Lorraine (Bleile) Spautz.

He attended school at Sacred Heart, Wahlert High School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964.  Following school, Dick was drafted into the Marines and served honorably for two years during the Vietnam War.  He was stationed at Camp Pendleton in California and Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.  While in New Jersey visiting family, he met the love of his life, Margaret “Mags” Norris.  They were married on September 19, 1970 at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque.  Dick and Mags were happily married for 43 years before she passed away on November 12, 2013.

Following his service in the Marines, Dick began working for Caradco in Dubuque, before taking a job with the Dubuque Packing Company.  His career spanned over 30 years and all of The Pack’s name changes until it closed in 2001.  Dick worked at Goodwill in Dubuque for 10 years and another 7 years in maintenance at Oak Park Place before finally “retiring” in 2018.

When not working, Dick could be found outside in his garden or his yard tending to his plants and flowers.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and his grandchildren.
Dick will be greatly missed by his family and all the people he considered his friends.

Those left to cherish Dick’s memory include his children,
Jeff (Paula) Spautz, Ramsey, MN,
Chris (Anna) Spautz, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Jessica) Spautz, Dubuque, IA
Mark Spautz, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren, Alex, Addison, Tyler, Dacoda, Chloey, Dawson, Trenton and Brynn;

his sister, Diane (Charles) Herrig, Dubuque, IA;

his brother, Michael Spautz, Dubuque, IA;

and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Margaret; and his twin brother, Robert Spautz.

Dick’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their care and support.

Cards and memorials in Dick’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Richard Spautz Family.

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

Donald W. Hansel Jr.

Donald W. Hansel Jr., 80, of Guttenberg, Iowa passed away Saturday, January 25, 2025.

A private burial was held at Guttenberg City Cemetery.

Don was born on April 11, 1944, in Monona, Iowa, the son of Donald W. Sr. and Betty (Raymond) Hansel.  Don married SuAnn Borman on May 7, 1966, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Guttenberg.

Don graduated from Garnavillo High School in 1962. He retired from Cargill. He cherished his time with Sue, especially, a good trip to the Casino in Dubuque.

Don is survived by his wife of 58 years, SuAnn Hansel; sister, Linda (Bruce) Bothwell; and several nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents.

Morris Funeral Home in Guttenberg is assisting the family and information is available at www.morrisfuneralhomes.com.  Memorials may be sent to Morris Funeral Home (in care of the deceased) 207 South 1st St, Guttenberg, IA 52052.