Obituaries Archive

Otto F. Wrabl

Otto F. Wrabl, a retired metalsmith, lithographer, and executive, died Tuesday, July 19, 2022, in hospice at Luther Manor, Dubuque, from complications of pneumonia. The 17-year resident of the Galena Territory was 86 years of age.

Mr. Wrabl, who emigrated to this country in 1952 and subsequently became a naturalized citizen, was born in Marburg-an-der-Drau (Maribor), Austria, to parents Franz and Juliana (Vertic) Wrabl in 1936. He was raised as an ethnic German. His childhood years were marked by the chaos of World War II, including seven years in a displaced person’s refugee camp. Soon after arriving in Gary, IN, Mr. Wrabl decided to settle in the Chicago suburbs. He took an entry-level position at Fuze-On Corporation in Mount Prospect, IL, and rose through the ranks to become vice-president. He was proud at the time of being able to afford, and acquire, one of the first (candy-red) Mustang sports cars. True to his roots, Mr. Wrabl organized a successful skiing club and was a member of the cultural organization Schwaben-Verein, where he played soccer and performed a traditional folk dance. Through these activities, he began dating Carol Gidel, a nurse. Otto and Carol fell in love and were married in 1962, eventually raising two sons in a new house in Buffalo Grove, IL, where they lived until 1985.

Prior to his 2005 Galena retirement, Mr. Wrabl lived in Marshfield, WI, and Joplin, MO, where he worked as a freelance metalsmith and supervisor for several companies. He was also a co-inventor on a 1977 patent for an innovative metal surface-coating method and started his own firm in the Chicago suburbs.

An avid fisherman and golfer, Mr. Wrabl greatly enjoyed skiing, family gatherings, German folk dancing, and ballroom dancing. His family remembers him as a fun-loving, practical gentleman who was always present when needed, with strong feelings for his favorite sports teams, including the Chicago Bears and Premier Soccer League. He and Carol were fortunate to have the opportunity to travel extensively, including trips to Peru, Egypt, and China. In a 2017 milestone trip, he returned to Slovenia with his family to visit the house where he was born. He loved his dogs Daisy and Pumpkin, who were loyal to the last. Mr. Wrabl was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded, and a memorial service with burial will be held at Casper Creek Natural Cemetery.

In addition to his wife of 60 years, he is survived by his two sons, James (Julia), of Baltimore, MD, and Karl of Fairbanks, AK, one grandson Alex, and a sister, Edith Timmerman of Portage, IN, and one brother, Ewald “Butch” (Sue) Wrabl of Hobart, IN. Others left behind to cherish Otto’s memory are niece Linda (Mark) Timmerman Janovetz of Mukwonago, WI, and nephew Bill (Barbara) Timmerman of Portage, IN.

Mr. Wrabl was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and an infant son.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in his memory be made to the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation, the Safe Haven Humane Society of Jo Daviess County, or the First Presbyterian Church of Galena.

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

Nancy J. Chapman

Nancy J. Chapman, of Asbury, died suddenly at home on Friday, July 22, 2022.

Visitation will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm on Thursday at Egelhof, Siegert, and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 J.F. Kennedy Road.  A wake service will be held at 4:00 pm. Mass of  Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am Friday at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. To view the livestream please visit, https://www.youtube.com/c/SaintAnthonyDubuque 

Nancy was born on February 16, 1938, daughter of Paul and Melinda (Hermes) Gleason.  She was the oldest of three children.  She attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School and graduated fromhigh school at St. Joseph Academy.  On June 18, 1960, Nancy married the love of her life, George Chapman at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Nancy got great joy from participating in the Barn Community Theater and singing with the Dubuque Chorale. She was also an avid reader, but her greatest blessing was her family.  She loved to gather her family all together and visit.  She especially enjoyed her grandchildren.

Nancy and George loved searching out antiques together.  They spent every wedding anniversary and an Autumn holiday each year in Door County.  They also spent 19 winters in Arizona escaping the Iowa cold.  They developed a large group of great Snow Bird friends there.

Nancy is survived by her five children:  Mark (Kelly) Chapman of Dubuque, Iowa and their children Zachary (Sara) Chapman and Samantha (Jake) Armour;  Scott Chapman of Oak View, CA and his children Randy (Jody) Chapman, Chelsea (Donald) Davidson and Colby Chapman; David (Laurie) Chapman of Phoenix, AZ and their children, Ryan Chapman, Kristin (Destiney Ryder) Chapman, and Alex (Christina Barry) Chapman; Amy (Thomas) Wagner of Asbury, IA and their children Andrew (Leah) Wagner, and Abby Wagner; and Nick Chapman of Asbury, IA and his children Haley, Chloe and Noah; seven great-grandchildren:  Kaylee, Hunter, Asher, Addison, Olivia, and Veda; and a sister-in-law, Sharon Landre. 

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, husband, George, her brother, Jack Gleason and her sister, Sandy Rich.

The family would like to express their thanks to the Asbury Volunteer EMTs and Fire Department, and Nancy’s special friend, Kathy Hamel, for their outstanding effort with Nancy on Friday night.

Susan J. Thome

Susan J. Thome, 68, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 23, 2022, at Mercy One Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. on Friday, July 29, 2022, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville, WI. A Latin Requiem Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. at the church with Fr John Del Priore officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Susan was born on February 10, 1954, daughter of David and Esther (Steger) Thome.

She attended Holy Ghost Elementary School, Visitation Academy, and Wahlert High School. She completed a bachelor’s degree in economics from Clarke University in 1976. She was employed for many years in the hospitality industry at Timmerman’s Motor Inn, East Dubuque, Illinois, and Eagle Ridge Inn & Resort, Galena, Illinois. She was lastly employed at University of Dubuque Aviation as a dispatcher.

Susan was a devout Catholic. She attended daily mass for most of her life and participated in Eucharist Adoration regularly. She was active in the Legion of Mary at St. Patrick’s Church for many years and spent countless hours at the Power of Prayer Chapel in Dubuque. She was a staunch supporter of the pro-life movement and an active member of St. Mary’s Parish where she volunteered much of her time. She enjoyed cooking, baking, and watching sports, especially hockey, football, and tennis.

Surviving is her mother Esther Thome, sisters Julie Thome, Lori (Ron) Smith and Jane (Bob) Walsh, brother-in-law Gary (Becky) Valentine, nephews David (Samantha) Smith, Michael Smith, Matthew (Tatum Mays) Valentine, Samuel (Natasha Heeren) Valentine, nieces Megan (Miguel Gutierrez) Valentine and Emily McGrane. Also surviving are her great nephews Ryan, Hunter and Henry Smith and great niece Elizabeth Smith.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her father David Thome, sister Mary Beth (Macy) Valentine, and aunt Sister Karol Steger O.S.F.

The family requests no flowers.  Memorials can be sent to Dubuque County Right to Life or St Mary’s Parish.

Georgeann J. Felton

Georgeann J. “Rusty” Felton, age 90, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on July 24, 2022, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Georgeann’s life, family and friends are invited to join in food and fellowship at her Celebration of Life which will be held on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2022, from 2:00–6:00 p.m. at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road, in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Georgeann’s family.

Georgeann was born on February 12, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Carl and Dora (Zuber) Mauer.  She spent her entire life in the Dubuque area and thoroughly enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends each and every day.  Georgeann was a naturally gifted and perpetually driven wife, mother and grandmother who loved and adored all of her family members down to the very core of her existence.  She spent countless hours watching her grandchildren and great-grandchildren play hockey and if she found a little time relax at the bowling alley, or socialize around the card table with family and friends, Georgeann was surely in her happy place.  She was not only quite active in her daily life, but also well known to possess a strong-willed personality when required.  In her personal free-time, Georgeann enjoyed traveling whenever possible and creating beautiful floral arrangements which she would proudly exhibit at area Arts and Crafts Shows.  She was as outgoing as she was actively well-rounded in many aspects of life, but at the end of the day, her heart always came back to her family.  We are going to miss our dear Georgeann’s bright spirit in our daily lives, but we will be forever grateful for the 90 years that the Lord was generous enough to share her with us.  Thank you, Georgeann, for teaching us so many important life lessons through your unwavering love and actions and may the Lord now keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Georgann include,

her two children,
Victoria Woodyard, Dubuque, IA,
and Timothy ( Elaine) Felton, Decorah, IA;

her five grandchildren,
Kyle Woodyard, Corey Woodyard, Heidi Woodyard, Ashley Felton, and Heather Felton;

her three great-grandchildren,
Collin Woodyard, Alexander Woodyard, and Kaleb Woodyard;

her siblings,
Diane (Harold) Hetzler, Grayslake, IL,
and Timothy (Joanne) Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Dorine Mauer, Dubuque, IA,
and Janet Entringer, Dubuque, IA;

her special niece,
Bridget Schier, Phoenix, AZ;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Georgeann was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph T. Felton; her son, Dennis L. Felton; and her siblings, Ernest (Martha) Wilson, Rosemary (Jim) Glynn, Gloria (Leslie) Potter, Betty (Leon) Soppe, Stanley Mauer, and Carlton Mauer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Georgeann’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

Georgeann’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa and Peggy, for all of their professional and compassionate care of Rusty and her family.

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

Dorothy L. Bastian

Dorothy L. Bastian, 96, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, July 21, 2022.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, July 29, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 12 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Dorothy was born August 10, 1925 in Dubuque, the daughter of Charles and Lucille (Pillard) Linden. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, and went on to attend AIB College in Des Moines. In 1951, she married Leddy J. Bastian in St. Catherine’s. He preceded her in death on May 28, 1994.

Dorothy was employed in the business office at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company for 20 years. She was a long-time member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral, and had a special devotion to the rosary.

Dorothy volunteered her time at the Dubuque Arboretum and Mercy Hospital. For 40 years, she enjoyed wintering in Florida, where she would craft, play shuffleboard, and teach her Florida friends all the new line-dancing moves she learned in Dubuque. She was an avid traveler, enjoyed hiking with the Mississippi Valley Hiking Club, and attending Swedish Weaving lunches.  Dorothy made sure to stay very active, and took her grandchildren hiking, made them walk 18 holes on the golf course, and could out-bike them any day.

Dorothy is survived by her children, Patti (Gary) Schilling, and Leddy Bastian, both of Dubuque; her grandchildren, Alyssa (Robert) Reisen, of Bellevue, Ryan (fiancée  Lois Anderson) Schilling, of Cuba City, WI, .Jaime (Levi) Sandoval, of Colorado Springs, CO,  Krysta (Devon Foley) Schilling, of Dubuque, and Scot Schilling, of Fountain, CO; her great-grandchildren Holden and Taelyn Reisen, Ryker Schilling, Camilla & Brinley Sandoval, and two more on the way.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and five brothers, Ralph, Merlin, Charles, John, and Gene Linden.

The family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire Department and Police for their assistance, and Dr. Joseph Compton for his care.

Todd M. Koppes

Todd Michael Koppes, 63, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022 as a result of a single car accident.  Memorial Visitation will be 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm, Saturday, July 30, 2022 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Todd was born November 29, 1958, the son of Gerald and Donna (Roeder) Koppes.  He graduated from Bellevue Marquette High School in 1977, and later graduated from the University of Iowa in 1981 after transferring to UI from Briar Cliff University where he played 2 years on a basketball scholarship.  Todd married Sandy Oster on April 17, 1982 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Iowa and recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.  Todd and Sandy met in 1972.

Todd will be remembered by his wife and son’s for his continual encouragement, love and support, his quick wit and sense of humor, his love of his friends, sports, golfing, cycling, the outdoors, and his coaching his son’s sports in basketball and soccer.  We are also grateful for all of his hard work tinkering around outside creating a little spot of heaven for his family to enjoy and call home.  Todd loved to sit outside in the mornings and in the evenings listening to the tree frogs and songbirds, playing with his dogs, and simply relaxing at home when he wasn’t actively participating in one of his other pastimes.

His granddaughters, Maeson (3 y/o) and Tatum (1 y/o) will remember “Papa” best for his warm smiles and hugs, his bedtime stories, giving “horsey rides”, fishing, picking vegetables and fruits from “their” berry bushes & fruit trees.

Todd’s younger brother Terry is thankful for Todd’s “wise” guidance and advice in his formative years and his ongoing support.  Terry and family also recall that Todd always made time for his nieces and nephew and their granddaughter, even going so far as to give his niece a motorcycle ride, based on reported second-hand approval from mom!

Randy will remember Todd for being a constant presence, like a brother, through the years and all of Todd’s “little projects” that he liked to do, often with Randy assisting!

His pets will remember Todd for his constant companionship and the little treats he would sneak to them when “mom” wasn’t watching!

Through the years, Todd had always treasured all the friendships he made along the way and tried to keep in contact with his friends, mostly bantering back and forth through emails and texts with a little sarcastic humor thrown in to keep the banter going.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy; sons, Adam (Oliva) Koppes and Casey (Layli) Koppes; grandchildren, Maeson and Tatum; a brother, Terry(Joyce) Koppes; his father, Gerald Koppes; and  a brother in-law, Randy Oster; and many lifelong and extended friends including his bicycle and golf buddies.

Todd was preceded in death by his mom, Donna Koppes; his father in-law and mother in-law, Eldon and Madonna Oster and his grandparents, especially his dear grandmother, Olivia Roeder.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Todd’s memory.

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

Dear friends, we welcome you to stop by the house to share a memory, to reflect, to laugh or cry.  You can call or text anytime, when you are ready.  Know that you are treasured and welcome.  We realize that those of you who’ve known Todd are grieving, too, and we are here for you.

Rev. Frederick C. Fangmann

The Rev. Frederick C. Fangmann, 84 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9 -11 a.m. on Thursday, July 28, 2022, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 11 a.m.  Burial will be at St. Boniface Cemetery in New Viennna.

Fred was born on October 2, 1937, on a farm near New Vienna, Iowa, the son of Fred and Leanda (Mormann) Fangmann.  He attended St. Francis Xavier Grade and High School in Dyersville.  After graduation, he went on to Loras College in Dubuque to receive a B.A. in Philosophy.  Seminary training was taken at Mt. St. Bernard Provincial Seminary, Dubuque and was ordained to the priesthood March 9, 1963, by Archbishop James J. Byrne.  Over the years Father Fangmann has served the following parishes:  All Saints in Cedar Rapids, St. Mary in Dubuque, St. Patrick in Cedar Rapids, St. Patrick in Dubuque, St. Mary in Waterloo, Immaculate Conception in Charles City, St. Mary in Roseville, St. Matthew in CedarRapids.  He also was Director of American Martyrs Retreat House in Cedar Falls, Pastor of St. Martin in Cascade, Holy Ghost in Dubuque, Sacred Heart in Oelwein, and Immaculate Conception in Fairbank.  He was Dean of the Elkader Deanery for 11 years and served the Iowa State Patrol as a Chaplain to Post Nine.  For several years, he helped as a team member to give Marriage Encounters and for 12 years was State Chaplain to the Catholic Daughters of America of Iowa.

Among all of this he also took time to enjoy life by travelling with his priest friends throughout this country as well as tours in Europe.  He enjoyed playing cards with friends and relatives and he spent many years with his “Eating Group” enjoying wonderful food and friendships.

Survivors include his cousins: Ruth Wedewer Rausch, Tom Wedewer, Nancy Wedewer Feld, Linda Wedewer Southwood, Joyce Mormann Becker, Kathy Mormann Squire, Dale Mormann, Jean Mormann Burggren, Ron Mormann, Gary Boge, Shirley Boge White and Sharon Boge Looker. He is also survived by many close clergy brethren whose friendships were priceless.

He was preceded in death by his parents, all of his aunts and uncles, and numerous cousins.

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.

Patrick J. Pitz

Patrick J. “Pat” Pitz, age 64, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:10 a.m., on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at Dubuque Specialty Care surrounded by his family after a 3 year battle with prostate cancer.  To celebrate Pat’s life, a private family celebration of life will be held at a later time.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery at a later date.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Pat was born on January 31, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Paul “Cougar” and Irene “Babe” (Winders) Pitz.

Pat attended Holy Trinity Grade School, Jefferson Junior High and Hempstead High School.  After school, he went to work as a roofer for both Rafoth Sheet Metal and Geisler Brothers, until his well earned retirement after 32 years.  Pat was introduced to the world of antiquing by his granny, Ruby Winders aka “Shorty”, and continued collecting throughout his entire life.  He loved attending NASCAR car races in the Midwest.  His favorite driver was Jimmie Johnson and he had an extensive die cast model collection.  Pat liked listening to rock and heavy metal music and has attended several live concerts.  Pat was an avid sportsman hunting, especially deer, and fishing any time he was able to.  He enjoyed wildlife in general, and spent countless hours watching and feeding the critters that made their homes in his backyard.  Pat truly cherished the simple things in life and spending quiet time alone.

Pat will be greatly missed and some of the things we will miss the most are:

Linda – All the reminiscing we did about family and places.  Pat had a gift for seeing humor in most things.  I loved his mannerisms, smile and the way he waved.

Mike – Our weekly phone calls.  We had great conversations on the phone and he had a way with words that made me laugh.

Paula – Seeing Pat happy spending time with family, and having him smile and interact with any dog.  All doggies loved Pat.

Jeff – My favorite roofer buddy/project advisor.  Pat helped me many times fixing up our 70 year old home that used to be our grandma Ruby’s.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

his siblings,
Linda (Dave) Palmer, Gilbert, AZ,
Mike (his long time girlfriend, Jerry Gilliland “Pitlands”) Pitz, Mesa, AZ,
Paula (Mike) Quen, Gilbert, AZ
and Jeff (Kelli) Pitz, Dubuque, IA;

his nieces and nephews,
Cassie, Katie, Michelle, Nicole, Jessica, Caleb, Tyler and Christina;

and 12 great-nieces and great-nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents; and a sister-in-law, Vicki (Schrunk) Pitz.

Pat’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the University of Iowa, Grand River Medical, especially Dr. Hermann, Hospice of Dubuque and Dubuque Specialty Care, for all of the outstanding care they have all provided for Pat along his journey.  Also a special thanks to all of Pat’s family and friends for their thoughts, prayers and support, you all mean the world to us!

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

Thomas J. Healey

We are sad to announce the death of Thomas J Healey. He passed away peacefully at the age of 76, surrounded by family at the University of Iowa City Hospital and Clinics on July 20th, 2022.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 26th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service and military honors by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Private family burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

The world became brighter on August 2, 1945, the day that Tom was born, in Bellevue, IA. The son of Emmett Healey and Lucille (Dague) Laack.  Tom attended St. Columbkille’s & graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964. At which time he enlisted in the Army, serving in Germany as a Medic.

Tom married the love of his life, Mary Ann Keating, December 27th, 1969.

Tom was a dedicated worker for 42 years with Flexsteel Industries. He enjoyed bartending, playing softball, bowling, and golfing. Tom’s biggest enjoyment was his children and grandchildren, never missing an event, even beating the busses to those events.  Tom enjoyed commiserating at the Veterans Freedom Center. He was always cracking a joke or expressing a goofy face with all he met.

Tom’s heart will forever be with his wife, Mary Ann Healey. His legacy will live on within his twin sons, David (Molly) Healey and Daniel Healey, along with Richard (Michelle) Healey. His kindness, loyalty and compassion will continue with his 6 grandchildren, Lexi, Jackson, Gabrielle, Beau, Connor, and Luke Healey and 3 bonus grandchildren, Jake, Megan, & Madelyn.  Surviving siblings Francis (Kayla), Ron, Joseph, Dale (Kim), Pat Healey, & Mary (Lynn) Meier along with many nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, John and Lula May Dague and Thomas and Mary (Fitzgibbons) Healey; infant sister Connie Healey, and a nephew, Skylar Healey.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Thomas Healey memorial fund.

The family would like to thank all the health care professionals who helped care for Tom.

Lori A. Nelson

Lori A. Nelson, age 61, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed peacefully at 6:05 a.m., on Thursday, July 21, 2022, at home surrounded by her loving family after a short battle with cancer.  To celebrate Lori’s life, family and friends may visit from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Family sharing will be held at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday evening.

Lori was born on May 22, 1961, in Iron River, Michigan, daughter of Richard and Winnifred (Vasser) Blacyki.

Lori grew up in Michigan and attended Iron River High School.  She was united in marriage to Ken Nelson on November 2, 1979, in Dubuque.  They have enjoyed 42 wonderful years of marriage and have been blessed with 3 children.  She managed the Key Apartments for 14 ½ years and worked for Galena Territory Restoration doing cleaning, design and decorating for 3 years.  Lori definitely loved her fine feathered friends and was currently caring for 6 of them in her home.  Even the wild birds in the yard would come up to her unafraid.  Everyone who knew Lori knew that her birds and decorating were her passions in life.  She was a kind soul and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Lori’s memory include

her husband,
Ken Nelson, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Ryan Nelson, Dubuque, IA,
Taralynn Young, Dubuque, IA
and Nina Spaans, Hawarden, IA;

12 grandchildren;

6 siblings,
Shelly, Rhonda, Kimmy, Theresa, Keary and Kyle;

and 2 sisters-in-law,
Peggy Hansen and Rita (Doug) Kandel.

Lori was preceded in death by her parents, Winnifred Blacyki and Richard Blacyki; her grandmother, Myrtle Vasser; a brother, Clint Blacyki; her in-laws, Ronald and Kay Nelson; and a brother-in-law, Patrick Nelson.

Lori’s family would like to extend a special thanks to all of the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa and Amber, for all of their kindness and support these past weeks.

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

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

Grace C. Ruden

Grace Catherine (Murray) Ruden, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 19, 2022.

Grace was born on February 6, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa, the second oldest child of Vincent Patrick Murray and Dorothy Agnes (McDermott) Murray.

She attended St. Patrick’s Elementary School in Epworth, Iowa and graduated from Epworth High School in 1960.

She was a telephone operator and supervisor at Northwestern Bell Telephone Company from 1960-1970. She was a loving and devoted stay at home mother for years before returning to work as a proofer/checker at Carlisle Publishing in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s.

She married Robert Ralph Ruden on July 20, 1968 at St. Patrick’s Church in Epworth, Iowa.

Grace was a wonderful cook, a tidy housekeeper and could stretch a budget like nobody’s business. She was an incredibly kind and generous woman who would go out of her way to help anyone if she could. She was a magical mother who could turn red lights green by blowing on them and could produce a Lifesaver, a stick of Trident gum or a Kleenex out of thin air. She was a woman of deep faith and everyone always wanted her famous lemon bars recipe at church functions.

Grace loved long walks with friends, talking on the phone for hours and going to the movies. She was a lifelong music lover, especially Irish sing-a-longs around the piano. She believed most things could be held together with Scotch Tape and was a big fan of Barbara Streisand and Dr. Pepper. She lived a simple life with gratitude and carried her cross with dignity and resolve without complaining. She was sweet, funny and the best friend you could ever want. Her children never doubted her love for one minute. She will be missed so very much by so very many.

She is survived by her three children; Steven Robert, 53, of Dubuque, Ellen Grace, 52, of Iowa City, and Paul Vincent, 51, of San Diego. She is also survived by her seven siblings; Robert (Bev) Murray, Daniel (Beth) Murray, Sister Corine Murray, PBVM, Ray (Jane) Murray, Rich (Kathy) Murray, Beth (Mark) Cook and Bill Murray.

She was preceded in death by her baby brother, John Joseph, on May 9, 1953, her father, Vincent, on October 29, 1996, her mother, Dorothy, on June 18, 2011 and her sister, Joyce,  (Callahan) on March 19, 2015.

A Celebration of Life memorial service for her will be at the Dubuque Arboretum this fall. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to Hospice of Dubuque or to the National Alliance on Mental Illness at NAMI.org

Robert R. Ruden

Robert Ralph Ruden, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 22, 2022.

Robert was born on October 26, 1942 in Dubuque, Iowa, the sixth child of Ralph Nicholas Ruden & Veturia Cecile (Powers) Ruden.

He attended school at St. Columbkille Elementary, Wahlert High School and Loras College before serving as an MP in the US Army from 1964-66.

He married Grace Catherine Murray on July 20, 1968 at St. Patrick’s Church in Epworth, Iowa.

His main career was as the Plant Manager at Frommelt Industries Safety Division and he also later worked for St. Vincent de Paul and Loras College.

He was a loyal Packers fan and loved everything about cars: buying them, working on them and driving them- especially if it had a V8.

He is survived by his three children; Steven Robert, 53, of Dubuque, Ellen Grace, 52, of Iowa City, and Paul Vincent, 51, of San Diego. He is also survived by his four sisters; Patricia (Kelly), Darlene (Noel), Janaan (Hickey), Carol (Wright) and his brother, DJ Ruden.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Veturia, on October 16, 1976 and his father, Ralph, on December 6, 1992.

According to his wishes, no public service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory , Dubuque, IA  assisted the family.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his memory to Hospice of Dubuque or donate blood at your local blood bank.

Patricia C. Driscoll

Patricia C. “Pat” Driscoll, age 86, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on July 16, 2022, suddenly at home.  To honor Pat’s life, her Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, at 11:00 a.m., at Resurrection Catholic Church, 4300 Asbury Rd, with Father Phil Gibbs  officiating.  Family and friends are invited to visit for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery and all of Pat’s family and friends are invited to join in food and fellowship at the Moracco Supper Club, 1413 Rockdale Rd,  following the committal services.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pat’s family.

Pat was born on March 11, 1936, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Francis J. “Frank” and Virginia “Jean” (Boland) Schumacher, Sr.  She was a proud graduate of the St. Joseph’s Academy and went on to spend the rest of her working years serving others as best she could.  Pat spent many years working in the medical library at Mercy Hospital and made countless lasting friendships along the way.  Upon retirement, she found herself volunteering primarily at the Carnegie Stout Library and the Mississippi River Boat Museum.  Pat thoroughly enjoyed spending time with people and watching the children’s eyes and imaginations light up when they were around her was truly satisfying and time well spent in her mind.  Pat was a devoted mother and grandmother who showered each and every one of her family and friends with an endless supply of love and adoration.  Her abilities in the kitchen were legendary and anyone who has ever been close to her in life knows that there was never a shortage of delicious cookies just waiting to be shared with anyone who passed through her day.  Pat’s crocheting needles rarely rested throughout her life and it’s difficult to imagine just how many feet have been kept comfortably warm each winter due to her amazing booties which felt just like a perfectly warm cozy fire snuggled right around your toes even on the coldest of days.  Her affinity for the beach and oceanside was also well known among her family and friends.  Pat would scour the beach all day in search of the perfect shells to add to her ever-growing collection at home where the memories could be savored for years to come.  Pat didn’t mind a little solitude from time to time either though as it always gave her an opportunity to expand her intellectual horizons and catch up on her latest books, but she also especially enjoyed regular company and visits with her loved one’s as she could catch up on their life’s stories as well.  We will miss our dear Pat more than any words could even begin to accurately depict, but we are also grateful for the wealth of beautiful memories which she leaves behind for us to treasure.  Thank you, Pat, for simply being the wonderful woman that you were and may we carry your legacy forward with honor as we wait patiently to see your beautiful smile once again.  May God bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms as you enjoy a most joyous reunion with all of your family members who’ve been called home ahead of you.  God bless and God speed Pat!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Pat include,

her four children,
Dan (Ellen) Driscoll, Shorewood, MN,
John (Sherri) Driscoll, Dubuque, IA,
Carla (Mark) Nelson, Buford, GA,
and Carolyn (Roy) Cooper, Kieler, WI;

her very special friend and family,
Tim (Allie) Saunders, Dubuque, IA,
and their children, Zoe, Sophia, and Oliva;

her five grandchildren,
Nicholas (Christa) Driscoll, Andrew (Marissa) Driscoll, Larissa (Eddie) Stokka, Joshua Driscoll, and Kaleah Driscoll;

her great-grandchildren,
Henry, Lauren, Brooks, Iris, Letty and Kai;

her brother-in-law,
James “Jim” Moeller, St. Cloud, MN;

her sister-in-law,
Pamela “Pam” Schumacher, Cape Coral, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Janet “Jan” Moeller; and her brother, Francis J. “Frank” Schumacher, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials, cards, and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to the family C/O Carolyn Cooper, P.O. Box 124, Kieler, WI, 53812

Pat’s family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff who have been helping Pat over these last couple of years, along with her dear friends at the Diamond Senior Apartments for their support, companionship and consistently above and beyond care of Pat.  Also, a very sincere and heartfelt thank you must be given to her daughter, Carolyn, and her “adopted son”, Tim Saunders, for all of their time, talents, patience and unwavering love they have blessed Pat with.  To witness such truly altruistic character and behavior playing a consistent role in Pat’s life has brought more peace to the minds of those who can only help from a distance when possible.  May the Lord bless you all beyond measure for your kindnesses and have no doubt that Patty Smiles XOXO!

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

Laura K. Powers

Laura Kay Powers, 73, of Dubuque, died Thursday, July 21, 2022, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00pm Thursday, July 28, 2022 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. The family requests that you wear a mask if you choose to attend. Mass of Christian Burial for Laura will be 11:00 am Friday, July 29, 2022, at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The family requests that you wear a mask if you choose to attend.

Laura was born January 1, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Joseph Victor and Meta Mary Willging Luedtke. On October 24, 1971, she married Dennis Powers in Sinnissippi Park, Rock Falls, IL.  He preceded her in death on December 7, 2000.

Laura graduated from Visitation Academy in 1967.  She owned and operated Stonehouse Bakery in St. Donatus from 1983 until 1992.  She then took over PC/Poll Systems after Dennis died.

Laura was a very active member of Cathedral of St. Raphael and all of the churches in the Archdiocese of Dubuque.  She was a member of the Serra Club of Dubuque.  Laura shared her love of baking and cooking by teaching it to others.

Survivors include three daughters, Dr. Theresa Powers of Los Angeles, CA, Ada Powers of Pflugerville, TX, and Anaelia Perez Acosta of Austin, TX; nine siblings, Mary Jo McElmeel of Dubuque, Lila Gwinn of Dubuque, Linda Kisting of Dubuque, Richard Luedtke of Spring, TX, Clarence Luedtke of Chugiak, AK, John Luedtke of Katy, TX, Paul Luedtke of Bellevue, IA, Meta Ruiz of Katy, TX, and Louis Luedtke of San Diego, CA; brothers- and sister-in-law, Dan Powers of St. George, UT, Anne  Peterson of Omaha, NE, and Bobby Powers of Vancouver, Canada; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Devin Powers, two brothers, Joseph Luedtke and James Luedtke, and two siblings in infancy.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the numerous caregivers throughout the years.

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

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

Christopher P. Goedken

Christopher “Chris” Patrick Goedken, 78, of Dyersville, passed away on Monday, July 18, 2022, at ProMedica (Manor Care), Dubuque, Iowa.

Chris was born on May 27, 1944, in Dyersville, Iowa, the son of Raymond and Margaret (Christoph) Goedken. He graduated from Xavier High School in 1962, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Upper Iowa University, and received his teaching certification from Mount Mercy College. Chris married Kathleen (Kathy, Katie) English on September 13, 1975, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.

He worked as a teacher for Western Dubuque Schools, a manager for Dyersville Golf and Country Club, and a bartender for The English Pub. Chris enjoyed vegetable gardening, winemaking, and playing guitar. He was a life-long golfer and played countless rounds at the Dyersville Golf and Country Club, always striving for, but never attaining the elusive hole-in-one. Chris and Kathy liked to attend flea markets where he hunted for treasures. He and Kathy lived in the same Dyersville home for 46 years where he loved spending summer mornings on the front porch with coffee and evenings on the back porch with a Manhattan.

Survivors include his wife, Kathy, children: Anne (Matthew) Davis of Fishers, IN and John of Dyersville; grandchildren: Colin and James Davis of Fishers, IN, siblings: Duane (Mary Ellen) Goedken of Muscatine, Phillip (Susan) Goedken of Lacey, WA, and Gary (Candace) Goedken of Atlanta, GA, in-laws: Mary Ellen Brucato of Toms River, NJ, Mike (Julie) English, Pat (Mae) English, Tim (Angela) English, Peggy English all of Dyersville, Jackie English of Coralville, Tom (Lisa) English of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, younger sister Ann Goedken, and parents-in-law Robert (Ozzie) and Dolores English.

The family will hold a private burial service at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manor Care in Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque.

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.