Obituaries Archive

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.

Marjorie Schultz

Mrs. Marvin (Marjorie) Schultz, 91, of 3175 Pennsylvania Avenue, formerly 1837 Glendale Court, Dubuque, Iowa, died July 18, 2022.

Funeral services will be 11 a.m., Saturday, July 23, 2022, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, where a visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the time of services. The funeral service livestream can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/stpeterlutherandubuque. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Marjorie was born March 6, 1931, to Carl and Viola (Hocking) Dick in Dubuque. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1949. She held numerous office positions over the years, most recently as the secretary retiring from Saint Peter Lutheran Church in 1996 after 23 years.

She married Dale Schulz in 1957 and to them were born two sons, Steven (Rose) Schulz of Dubuque and Brian (Theresa) Schulz of Apple Valley, MN. She later married Marvin Schultz on October 9, 1971.

Surviving Marjorie are her two sons, Steven (Rose) and Brian (Theresa) Schulz, step-daughters Karen (Robert) Anderson and Kathy (Craig) Huberty, as well as grandchildren Stephanie, Jared, Laura and Jonathan Schulz and step-grandchildren Nicole (Ronald) Gawer and their daughter Kate Gawer, and Justin Anderson and Kaylanna (Andy) Heyn, Lute and Chance Huberty, her sister-in-law Mary Dick, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Schultz, her parents, her brother Richard Dick and her sister, Lois Ellwanger and her husband Milton, and her brother-in-law Melvin Krumm. Marjorie takes this opportunity to remember her special and loyal friend Gretta Sass Buntrock.

Over the years Marjorie taught Sunday School, sang in church choirs, served on Alter Guild and Financial Assistant, participated in Project Day Quilting and was a church representative of the Luther Manor Auxiliary. She enjoyed music, reading, traveling and playing cards.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be given to Saint Peter Lutheran Church or the charity of your choice.

Marlin F. Jorgensen

Marlin F. Jorgensen, age 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on July 17, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.  To honor Marlin’s life, a private graveside service will be held at the Asbury Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Marlin’s family.

Marlin was born on September 7, 1935, in Woonsocket, South Dakota, a son to Floyd C. and Beulah A. (Goering) Jorgensen. Sadly, his father was called home to the Lord when Marlin was only 6 months old and his step-father, Lester A. Plumhoff was thankfully placed in Marlin’s life to help raise him into the gentleman he would become.  He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army and after his duty was complete he found and married his soul-mate, Yvonne Schnittger  The couple was blessed with many wonderful years together, and four children along the way. Marlin provided for his family as a 33-year loyal employee of the Interstate Power Company.  He began on the ground floor as a meter reader in Winnebago, MN, spent some time in Kiester, MN, and eventually made his way to Dubuque where he finally retired in 1998 as the Director of Land and Right of Way.  Marlin made countless friends along the way and his drive and determination were second to none.  In his free-time, he enjoyed spending time with his friends at the American Legion Post #6, sitting down with a good book in hand, and faithfully attending St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.  Marlin and Yvonne also enjoyed wintering in Ormond Beach, FL, for over 15 years together as well as traveling extensively whenever time allowed.  We are surely going to miss Marlin, along with his naturally gifted skills of fixing anything you placed in front of him, but we know that his heart has been quite broken and heavy since Yvonne has left his side.  We are eternally grateful for the years the Lord saw fit to share Marlin with us and will seek and find comfort in the abundance of memories which he leaves behind.  Thank you, Marlin, for truly being a man among men and may the Lord’s perfect peace be yours until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Marlin include,

his 3 children,
Don M. (Jody) Jorgensen, Davenport, Iowa,
Dean L. (Debra) Jorgensen, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Doyle T. (Jean Paisley) Jorgensen, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 4 adored grandchildren,
Lisa Galle, Missy Galle, Alina Davis and Cassandra “Cassie” (Michael) Foley;

his 7 great-grandchildren,
Jacob Galle, Scott Davis,, Justin Breitbach, Tredyn Davis, Teegan Davis, Elisabeth Steil, and Elyse Steil,

his great-great grandson,
Apollo Breitbach;

his niece and nephew,
Lynn (Rodney) Parks, Ft. Worth, TX,
and Dale (Debbie) Jorgensen, Hickory Creek, TX;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Marlin was preceded in death by his parents; his beautiful bride of 63 years, Yvonne Jorgensen; his son, Darin F. Jorgensen; and his brother, Robert “Bob” (Vergene) Jorgensen.

Marlin’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Stonehill for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

William L. Little Jr.

William L. “JR” Little Jr., age 47, of Dubuque, passed away at 6:35 p.m., on Thursday, July 14, 2022, at his home.  To celebrate William’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

William was born on October 1, 1974, in Savanna, Illinois, son of William and Joyce (Schyvincht) Little.

Bill attended Savanna High School.  He married Christa Sparks in Mt. Carroll, Illinois and together they had 2 children.  After they divorced he dated Kim Cook and they also had 2 children together.  After they separated, Bill once again found love, and was united in marriage to Malisa Long-Tucker in 2005.  The two would add another son to the family.  Bill was employed in construction for several years, bartended at Noonan’s Tap where he earned the nickname Hillbilly, and with Arctic Glacier and Hormel.  In his free time he enjoyed shooting pool with his friends.  He also liked going to Bingo with Malisa.  His children and grandchildren meant the world to him.

Those left to cherish JR’s memory include

his wife,
Malisa Little, Dubuque, IA;

his 5 children,
Nicole Little,
Travis Little,
Danyel Cook,
Trevor Cook
and William Little III;

3 step-children,
Courtney Johnson,
Cody Dole
and Christopher Tucker;

14 grandchildren;

his siblings,
Brinda Spencer,
Mike Little Lindsey
and Terry Lindsey;

his aunts,
Donna Green,
Harriet Olsen,
Bernice Johnson,
Linda (Pete) Southerland,
Sheila Morris
Sandra Hodnett;

and an uncle,
Timmy Sipes.

William was preceded in death by his parents; an aunt, Mary Ann Bray; and his uncles, William Green, Dan Olsen and Tommy Sipes.

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

Eileen C. Jaeger

Eileen Catherine Jaeger, 89, of Guttenberg, formerly of St. Catherine, died Saturday, July 16, 2022, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:00 am Friday, July 22, 2022 at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church in St. Catherine, IA.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Eileen will be 11:15 am Friday, July 22, 2022, at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church with Father David Ambrosy as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Catherine’s Cemetery.

Eileen was born January 3, 1933, in St. Catherine, Iowa, the daughter of Michael and Lucille Hoffmann Manders. On June 5, 1956, she married Joseph Charles Jaeger at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church. He died June 6, 1987.

She was a seamstress and homemaker.  She was a member of St. Catherine’s Catholic Church and the Rosary Society, the Bellevue American Legion Auxiliary, she was a member of Mosalem Busy Bees 4-H Club. She also served as a leader for Mosalem Sisterettes. She loved cooking, baking, sewing, canning, reading, and visiting.

Survivors include her six children, Donita Freiburger of Dubuque, Daniel (Mary) Jaeger of Cuba City, Donna (Michael) Lakeman of Dubuque, Duane Jaeger of Onalaska, WI, Darwin Jaeger of Dubuque, David (Jodee) Jaeger of St. Catherine; 16 grandchildren, Holly (Tony), Heather (Chad), Nick (Kelsey), Joey, Andy, Dana (Carl), Albert, Megan (Chris), Danielle (Jeremiah), Josh (Shania), Ted (Maggie), Thad (Delaine), Noah (Carlie), Brian, and Hope; four step-grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; two brothers-in-law, Robert (Betty) Jaeger of St. Catherine; Roland Jaeger of Landon, SC, and many cousins, including Roger Manders of St. Catherine.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one brother, in-laws, Wayne, and Sherry, and several other family members.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Eileen’s family thanks her grandchildren and great-grandchildren for helping take special care of her.

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

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

Danielle L. Connell

Danielle L. (Jackson) Connell, 26, of Monticello, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at home surrounded by her family following a two-year bout with Cancer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday. July 23, 2022, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday, and from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. on Saturday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. The Parish Scripture Service will be at 2:30 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Danielle was born on December 6, 1995, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Kelly and Debbie (Leibold) Jackson.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 2014 and a graduate of Loras College, class of 2018 where she majored in accounting and graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Danielle was employed as a Supervisor for RSM McGladrey in Cedar Rapids, IA. She was united in marriage to Benjamin T. Connell on December 11, 2021, at Sacred Heart Church in Monticello.

She enjoyed her work, running, baking, horseback riding, spending time with family and her dogs, Jasper and Paisley.

Survivors include her husband, Ben; parents, Kelly and Debbie (Leibold) Jackson, siblings, Brooke (Casey) Sweet, Travis (Amy) Jackson, Justin Jackson and Megan Jackson; twelve nieces and nephews, her in-laws, Richard and Laurie Wegman, Joe (Alisa) Connell, Brian Connell, and Megan Connell; grandmothers, Joan Jackson and Ardelle “Toots” Leibold.

She was preceded in death by a sister, Kally Lynn Jackson, her grandfathers, Peter Leibold and Fred Jackson, father-in-law, William Connell, and grandparents-in-law, Mr. & Mrs. Leo Connell.

In lieu of flowers, a Danielle Jackson Memorial fund has been established.

Ben and family wish to thank Dr. Susan Slycord and the nurses and staff from Mercy Hospice, Cedar Rapids for the special care given to Danielle.

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

Robert L. Eichman

Robert L. “Bob” Eichman, 95, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Friday morning, July 15, 2022, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.  Visitation will be held at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper on Tuesday, July 19, 2022, from 4 PM to 7 PM, and at St. Paul Lutheran Church on Wednesday, July 20, 2022, from 9 AM to 9:45 AM, followed by the funeral at 10 AM.  Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery following the funeral service.

Robert Louis Eichman was born in Dubuque on March 22, 1927, to Martin and Louetta (nee Kaufman) Eichman.  He was Dubuque “north-ender” and attended St. Paul Lutheran School, Jefferson Junior High School, and Senior High School, graduating in 1945.  He met his wife of 71 years, Damaris Brauer, at a church social event in 1949, and they were married at St. Paul’s on March 19, 1951.

After working at AY McDonald following graduation, Bob began working with his father in the electrical business started in the family garage on Washington Street—the Eichman Electric Service Company.  With his brother Bill, Bob became a journeyman electrician, and in 1961, following the death of their father, Bob and Bill assumed ownership of the Eichman Electric Company in Dubuque, and served many industrial, commercial, and residential clients throughout eastern Iowa and western Illinois until they closed in 1986.

Following retirement, Bob pursued his passions, including Scouting, the outdoors, photography, and Dubuque history.  Bob worked with scouts for many years at St. Paul Troup 48, and in 1990 received the Lamb Award, the highest scouting honor given by the Lutheran Church.  He loved spending time outdoors, especially canoeing, as counted as one of his favorite memories a canoe trip to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota with the fellow Boy Scout troop leaders after his retirement.

In 1998, Bob became a tour guide for the Dubuque County Historical Society and later for the Trolleys of Dubuque and continued that work until he was 91.  In 2014 he was awarded the Hospitality Leadership Award from the Dubuque Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.  He was an avid photographer throughout his life, with a special fondness for the landscapes, textures, and colors of Dubuque and the surrounding countryside.  He won multiple awards for his photographs at the Dubuque County Fair, including best-of-show, and created note cards from his photos and sold them at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Bob was a deeply committed family man and was extremely proud of his three children and all they accomplished in life.  They inherited his love of music, history, and the hills, fields, and rivers of Northeast Iowa.  He is survived by his wife Damaris of Dubuque and his children Jonathan (Suzanne) of Arlington, Massachusetts, Jennifer (Yogen) of Princeton, New Jersey, and Jayson of Dubuque, and by his sister Carolyn of Picayune, Mississippi.  He was preceded in death by this brother William (Bill).

Donations in Bob’s name may be made to the Organ Fund at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Dubuque, or to Meals on Wheels.