Obituaries Archive

Kathleen Reeg

Mary A. Gilmore

Mary A. Gilmore, a cherished wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away after a brief illness on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Unity Point, St. Lukes Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at the age of 73. Born on February 2, 1951, in Maquoketa, Iowa, Mary was the loving daughter of Sherman E. and Blanche M. (Paasch) McCallister.

Mary graduated from Andrew High School in 1969, where she fostered a love for learning and community involvement. It was during her time as a nurse’s aide at the local hospital that she met Thomas “Tom” Gilmore, a patient who would become her husband. The two were united in marriage on April 28, 1973, in Maquoketa, and welcomed their son, Jeremy, into the world, completing their family.

Professionally, Mary was the cornerstone of her family’s businesses. She managed the office and bookkeeping for Tom Gilmore Repair, and later for T & J Manufacturing, which was founded in 1982. Mary’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering support were instrumental in the success of these ventures. She retired in 2010.

Mary’s life was a testament to her faith and her love for the arts. She was a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, where she shared her musical talents by singing in the choir. Her passion for theater shone brightly through her involvement with the Peace Pipe Players, to which she contributed as an assistant director. Mary’s love for music extended beyond the church and theater; she was an avid fan of Elvis Presley, often traveling to Graceland and attending numerous tribute concerts.

Those left to honor Mary’s memory include her husband, Thomas “Tom” Gilmore of Maquoketa; her son and daughter-in-law, Jeremy and Sandy Gilmore of Maquoketa; her siblings, Richard “Dick” (Kathy Felten) McCallister of Maquoketa, and Nancy Jamison of Maquoketa; in-laws, Larry and Lorraine Gilmore, John and Alice Gilmore, and Lowell Henry, all of Maquoketa; along with several loving nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Joyce Bradshaw; and sisters-in-law, Diana Henry and LeAnn McCallister.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, January 9, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, Mary A. Gilmore memorial fund has been established.

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

Ambrose P. Eilers

Ambrose P. Eilers, 86 , of Monticello, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church prior to funeral mass.

Funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church,  in Monticello, Iowa, with burial in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Ambrose was born May 26, 1938, son of Leo and Rose (Loeffelholz) Eilers.  He received his GED while in the US Army and later attended Kirkwood Community College for Drafting. After returning from the US Army he married the love of his life, Kathleen Prier. They were married on August 18, 1962, in Holy Cross, Iowa. Two daughters were born to this union.

He was a carpenter until Arthritis affected his health, he then attended Kirkwood to become a draftsman. He worked for Cucklers and Star Manufacturing until they moved the drafting department to another state. He then worked for Cedar Rapids Inc. until his retirement. Woodworking was a passion for him. Even though he was not able to be a carpenter full time, you could still find him tinkering in his shop creating his masterpieces for his loved ones while listening to country music.

Ambrose loved to travel, he always looked forward to taking his wife and kids on a vacation. Most evenings you would find him at his drafting board drawing house plans for people, this was his vacation fund for his family. He shared his love of travel with so many others and encouraged other family members to join him and Kay on their adventures. He loved attending their grandchildren’s events, helping his grandchildren with their 4H projects, treating them to Dairy Queen, and always encouraging them to be the best they could be.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Kay; children: Sandy (John) Ryan and Cindy (Pat) Ries; grandchildren: Shellie (Jay) Cabalka, Stacey Ryan, Mitchell (Morgan) Ryan, Courtney and Serena Ries; great grandchildren: Nova and Maverick Cabalka; sister, Donna Lux; in-laws: Germaine Deutmeyer, Eunice Prier, Marilyn Prier, Ed (Eileen) Prier, Charlie (Janet) Prier, Willie (Bonnie) Prier, Loras (Mary Ellen) Prier, and Loras Demmer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Kathleen Demmer; in-laws: Vince Lux, Roger Deutmeyer, Eugene (Lucille) Prier, Marvin Prier, Gerry Prier and Wilma Prier.

The family would like to thank the staff members of Corner Stone, the VA and Above and Beyond for all the loving care they provided for our husband and father.

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

Wilford R. Anderson

Wilford Robert Anderson passed away Friday, December 27, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Wil was born on February 21, 1927, on the South East Side of Chicago, Illinois, son of Ernest and Helna Anderson, first generation Swedish immigrants. He was active at Bethel Evangelical Free Church where he accepted the Lord in 1939. After high school graduation, he entered the Coast Guard and was stationed in Puerto Rico during World War II. After being discharged, he enrolled at John Brown University in Siloam Springs, Arkansas where Nancy, his childhood sweetheart, was already studying. They were married on June 14, 1947. He graduated in 1950 with a BA in Bible.

Wil then studied at Trinity Bible Institute in Chicago and was ordained in 1951; in 1952, he and Nancy followed the Lord’s leading by serving as missionaries under the Evangelical Free Church in Venezuela. He pastored churches in El Socorro, Maracay, and Caracas; he wrote scripts for radio programs; he helped start a Bible camp; he taught in a Bible institute and the Seminario Evangelico Asociado where he also served as rector; he authored several books; and he was a much sought after youth conference speaker. During these years, he completed a MDiv (1964), ThM in Practical Theology (1969), and a DMin (1984), all at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. However, as a dad, Friday afternoons and many Saturdays were reserved to take his four children and their friends fishing, swimming, or to the beach.
In 1989, Wil and Nancy moved to Miramar, Florida. He taught at the Trinity International University campus in Florida; served Reachglobal (EFCA International Mission) and the EFCA Southeast District by assisting various Hispanic churches; he made four trips to Cuba to speak at church camps, teach at a seminary, and give conferences; he also traveled to Haiti multiple times to teach and preach; he was active in the Miramar Evangelical Free Church. Now as a grampa, he derived great joy taking his children and a growing number of grandsons fishing and to the beach – but with his boat, the Selah.

In 2007, Wil and Nancy moved to Dubuque, Iowa to be closer to family. During these years he treasured the Anderson family reunions in Ludington, Michigan and in Dubuque. He authored two books about his ministry in Venezuela and trips to Cuba; he wrote poetry and composed songs; he learned how to make videos on his computer and created many clips for his family and friends from a lifetime of photographs and videos; and he was active at Hope Church. Wil and Nancy celebrated their 75th anniversary in 2022. Later that year, they moved to Luther Manor where he wrote his final book, a devotional entitled, In His Hands.

On Friday, December 27, he went to be with the Lord whom he had served throughout his life; and he was also reunited with Nancy, his love of 77 years, who had preceded him by 25 days.

Wilford is survived by his children, Keith (Judy) Anderson of Palatine, Illinois, Kurt (Peggy) Anderson of Trevor, Wisconsin, Kent (Ann) Anderson of Dubuque, and Karin Anderson of Dubuque, nine grandsons and their wives, and fifteen great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy (Emery) Anderson, his parents Ernest and Helna (Rydbeck) Anderson, his two brothers Lawence Anderson and Raymond Anderson, and his two sisters Lucille (Anderson) Mulholland and Betty (Anderson) Cook.

A memorial service for Wilford is scheduled for 10:30a.m., Saturday,  June 14, 2025 at Hope Church, Dubuque, after which both he and Nancy will be interred at Linwood Cemetery.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Gari J. McDermott

Gari J. McDermott, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 24, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday January 7, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A wake service will begin at 3:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday January 8, 2025, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Gari was born on February 8, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, son of Carl and Camilla (Fitzpatrick) McDermott. He grew up alongside his cousins Jeff and Danny Sommers. The three of them were very close. He graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque in 1959. He honorably served his country in the United States Army from 1963-1966. He was married to Judith Palmer for 33 years, and together they had five kids before going their separate ways. He worked for Northwestern Bell phone company for over 25 years. Gari was a simple man who was a jack-of-all-trades. He enjoyed staying busy and tackling any project that came his way, whether it was repairing a house or fixing a car. “If you want it done right, you got to do it yourself!” He also enjoyed relaxing and watching his television, especially when his beloved Green Bay Packers were playing.

Gari is survived by his children Beth McDermott of Chicago, IL, Jeff McDermott and Shawn McDermott of Dubuque, Russ McDermott of Dickeyville, WI, and Daniel McDermott of St. Paul, MN, two grandchildren Garrett and Calla McDermott of St. Paul, MN; cousin Jeff (Loretta) Sommers; nine nieces and nephews of the Egan family including Kris, Greg (Megan), Angie Olds, Kevin, Mike, Julie (Andy) Willenborg, Ron, Amy (Brad) Blum, Erin (Tim) Sprengelmeyer, and numerous great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents John & Margaret (Casey) McDermott and maternal grandparents Harold “Hal” & Clara (Slattery) Fitzpatrick; aunt Adeline Sommers-Sweeney, sister Gloriann (Patrick) Egan, niece Laura (Egan) Heiderscheit, great niece Faith Willenborg, and cousin Danny Sommers.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, MercyOne, and Stonehill Care Center for all of their care of dad.

Guy S. Otterbeck

Guy S. “Steve” Otterbeck, age 74, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 2, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Steve’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Steve’s family.

Steve was born on September 21, 1950, in Fort Dodge, IA, a son to Wilber and Carol (Warner) Otterbeck, Sr.  He honorably served his county with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.  Steve trained to be a diesel mechanic while in the Army and proudly shared those skills with John Deere Dubuque Works upon returning home.  He later earned his X-13 Mechanic Certification and faithfully invested for over 43 years at Deere’s while working primarily in the Experimental Department in the ADV Lab.  Steve didn’t leave his skills at work though as his talents were immeasurable and he was well known as the “Master Fixer of Everything” to those who knew him well.  He enjoyed everything about hot rods and if he wasn’t working on his own 1932 Model A truck, you could surely find him helping a friend bring his project up to the next level anytime he was asked.

Steve enjoyed the outdoors almost as much as he did wrenching in the garage with his favorite music playing in the background.  A little 4-wheeling was always an acceptable way to spend an afternoon, but if the request came in to spending a little time with his fishing pole in hand, or some hunting on a crisp fall day, you could be sure Steve would be right here to play his part perfectly.  But, for those who knew and loved Steve the most, it was undeniable that spending time with his family and friends was always his greatest joy and having his most prized possession, his dog, Lou by his side was a very close second (and some might even say it was an even tie).  We are deeply saddened by the loss of Steve in our physical lives and can only hope that the love and legacy he leaves behind will now help to ease the pain of this loss in time.  Thank you, Steve, for being true to yourself, making sure that those whom you adored and appreciated knew it to be so, and for never allowing the trials of life to overcomplicate the simple fact that each day is a gift and how we handle that gift is entirely up to us.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we see your heart-melting grin once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Steve include,

his three children,
Holly (David) Field, Dubuque, IA,
Hope (Nick) Hess, Dubuque, IA,
and Troy Otterbeck, Dubuque, IA;

his adored grandchildren,
Courtney (Cody) Uppena, Carter Fens, Landon (fiancé Karly Cerda) Hess, Caleb Hess, August Hess, Emmett Hess, Emma Hess, Angelina Otterbeck, Alexis Otterbeck, Isabelle Otterbeck, and Riley Fens-Field;

his great-grandchildren,
Remington Uppena, Rigley Uppena, and Ryker Stierman;

his special friend,
Lucia Sriram, Miami, FL;

his ex-wife,
Linda Wilson, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Dennis Zielski, McGregor, IA;

along with  numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; his infant twins, Lisa and Jamie Otterbeck; and his siblings, Melody (George) Frommelt, Wilber (Nancy) Otterbeck, Jr., David (Deb) Otterbeck, and Deb Otterbeck-Zielski.

Steve’s family would like to thank Dr. Thomas Schreiber, his staff, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sheila A. Brown

Shelia A. Brown, 79, of Dubuque IA, passed away November 14, 2024, at home.

A private burial was held at Holy Family Cemetery, New Melleray. A celebration of life will be held January 19, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Peosta Community Center. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Shelia was born July 1, 1945, in Dubuque IA, to Paul and Helen (McDermott) Brown. She graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1963 and worked for over 44 years for Flexsteel in the Information System Department.

She was proud of her Irish heritage and attending festivals in Dubuque, Waterloo, La Crosse and Milwaukee. She enjoyed a trip to Ireland with three of her siblings.

Shelia is survived by her siblings, Sharon (Rick) Kasper, Gary (Beth) Brown, Margie (Duane) Schueller all of Dubuque, and Glen (Ronna) Brown of Farley IA; sister-in-law Flora Brown of Dubuque, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, siblings Gale, Jerry “Holmes” and Lyle, sister-in-law Nancy Brown and nephew Corey Schueller.

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

The family would like to thank the community at Oak Park Place for their companionship to Shelia.

George W. Holland

With hearts full of cherished memories and a profound sense of gratitude, we announce the passing of George William Holland. He left this world on December 31, 2024 to embrace the next chapter of life’s adventure with Jesus.

George was born to the parents of Albert and Leona (Mahler) Holland on November 25, 1951 in Sac City, Iowa. George graduated from Waseca Sacred Heart High School in 1969 in Waseca Minnesota. George continued his education earning a degree from Wayne State College in Nebraska. George dedicated 50 years of his life educating students and being an advocate for teachers. George held many roles throughout his years in education. With each role, he took great pride in the people he connected with. He had a passion and dedication to make a difference in his community.

George had an avid love for Disney, theater production, collecting nativities for his museum, baking and decorating cakes, quilting, and caring for his well loved dogs. George led an honest life with a caring approach. He looked for the best in people and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

George is survived by his niece Michelle (Kevin) Blaha, great-nephew Bradley (Michelle) Blaha, great-niece Stephanie (Andrew) Nims, great-great Nephews; Caden Blaha, Kemper Blaha, Camden Blaha, Cole Blaha and great-great niece Addilynn Nims. George is survived by his friend Tim Krom and his niece Keri (Tim) Miller and great niece Natalee Miller.  George is also survived by Robert Sable, Renee Kruchten and Garrett Kruchten.

George is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Leona (Mahler) Holland, Sisters; Mary Lou Wilson, and Elaine Sable and niece Carmen Sable.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday January 11, 2025 at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, from 1 PM to 4 PM followed by a memorial service at 4 PM. Family and Friends are invited to share stories, laughter, and tears in remembrance of the beautiful life George led. George will be peacefully laid to rest alongside his parents at Owatonna Memorial Garden following another Celebration of life at a later date in Owatonna, Minnesota.

Richard G. Luchsinger

Richard G. Luchsinger passed away at home unexpectedly on Friday, December 27, 2024. Richard “Rich” was born on September 15, 1943, in Dubuque, son of Raymond and Angeline (Nacos) Luchsinger in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 12:15 pm Monday, January 6, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

A time of sharing for Rich will be 12:15 Monday, January 6, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rich attended Jackson and Fulton grade school, Washington Junior high school and completed his secondary education at Senior High School. Early on, Rich found a passion assembling model trains with scenery and layouts with his brother, Ron. In 1961, Rich enrolled in the University of Dubuque, later completing coursework at Iowa State University and University of Minnesota. After nine years of coursework, Rich obtained an Architect license and joined a small firm in Madison. Rich eventually left Wisconsin and joined the Durant group in Rockford, Illinois and then returned to Dubuque to assist the City of Dubuque on the construction of Five Flags.

In December 1984 Rich was hired as the first Project Manager (outside of the immediate Conlon family) for the Conlon Construction Company bringing him back to Dubuque, Iowa. Rich loved this role and spent thirty years contributing to the growth and success of the company. Rich’s talents as an architect coupled with his background in planning and design assisted clients in exploring ideas and identifying design solutions within their budget. Rich was known as a quiet leader, managing projects with integrity and fairness and relentless attention to detail. Rich was the consummate professional, working to respectfully resolve issues behind the scenes and sharing his wisdom with his team. Rich’s positivity was evident as he often greeted others with, “What’s the good word?”

Rich retired in January, 2015, after over forty years of professional experience which included drafting, design development, planning, working drawing and specification productions, scheduling, estimating, project management and supervision, client- contractor coordination, quality control and independent architectural practice. Rich was integral to the successful completion of many new and remodel projects working with the following Dubuque organizations: Finley Hospital, Mercy Medical Center, Guttenberg Municipal Hospital, Medical Associates, Dubuque Internal Medicine, Sisters of Charity BVM, St. Dominic Villa, Sisters of the Presentation, Sinsinawa Mound, Mount Saint Francis, Sunnycrest Manor, Wartburg Theological Seminary, Clarke College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, FDL and the Dubuque Museum of Art.

After retirement, one of his favorite pastimes was to drive his brother Ron through the city and provide a structural history of the Dubuque landmarks and reminisce about his projects over the years.

Rich’s love for trains and the railway was well known. Throughout his life Rich loved to visit train shows and museums seeking innovative ideas to build his scenarios and expand his collection. Rich loved to travel by train, routinely traveling to the east coast to join his brother for a holiday. In 1970, Rich began the tradition of sending out an annual pen and ink Christmas card which depicted a railroad scene that he studied or visited. These cards were collected by family and friends.

Rich cherished the time spent with family and friends and loved preserving special memories – whether it was a rock, a ticket stub, or a photo.  He will be greatly missed by his brother Ron, and those who had the honor of sharing time with him.

Rich was an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan and the following statement by Roberto Clemente, one of his favorite players, summarizes Rich’s life; “I want to be remembered as a ballplayer who gave all I had to give.”

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Angeline, and sister, Jean Anne.  He is survived by a brother Ronald of Dubuque, Iowa and numerous cousins.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Janice J. Bell

Janice J. Bell, 66, of Savanna, Illinois, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Janice Joetta Summers was born on October 16, 1958 in Zelma, Missouri, to Avery and Eula (Peters) Summers.  She was a graduate of Zelma High School and then attended a community college in Missouri.  She married Robert Tackett Sr.

Janice had worked various jobs throughout her life, most notably at Pacific Coast Feather and Hoof Products, both in Maquoketa.

Janice enjoyed fishing and going on joy rides and sightseeing.

Those left to honor her memory include a son, Anthony Bell of Maquoketa, IA; 2 grandchildren; and siblings, Jeanie Farris of Davenport, IA, and Stanley Summers of MO.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a son Robert Tackett Jr., a daughter Jamie Bell, 3 brothers and 1 sister.

Per her request, no public services will be held at this time.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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

Gerald L. Berner

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gerald Lee Berner, who left us peacefully on December 26, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 87.

Born on July 26, 1937, in Toronto, Iowa, Jerry spent his early years on the family farm and attended grade school in Lost Nation, Iowa, until 1952. After graduating, he proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958.

In 1960, Jerry relocated to Arizona, where he began a distinguished career. He started as a member of the Phoenix Police Department, serving for seven years. Always eager to further his education, he returned to school in 1964, graduating from Phoenix College in 1966 and from Arizona State University with honors in 1968 with a degree in accounting. Jerry earned his CPA in 1970 and began his business career with the accounting firm Peat Marwick, Mitchell.

Jerry went on to hold prominent positions in his field, including working for Del Webb Corporation and later Greyhound/Dial Corporation. He traveled internationally for many years.  He retired in 1999 as Vice President of Internal Auditing for Greyhound/Viad Corporation, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity, and leadership.

In 1965, Jerry married the love of his life, Jeanne, with whom he shared 47 wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2013. Their enduring bond remains an inspiration to all who knew them. Jerry will be laid to rest at Pence Cemetery in Jackson County, Iowa, next to Jeanne, fulfilling their shared wish to be together for eternity.

Jerry was known for his unwavering work ethic, sharp intellect, dates he never forgot, his very kind heart and his zest for life!  He cherished his nieces and nephews and their children immensely and was known as “Uncle Jerry” by them as well as their friends and their children.  He enjoyed every minute with all of them!  He will be dearly missed!

He enjoyed cars and owned many from sports cars to classics over the years.  Jerry had a love for the game of golf and succeeded in getting multiple Hole in Ones! He loved spending time with family and friends and leaves behind countless cherished memories.

Those left to honor his memory include 2 brothers and 2 sisters – Glenn Berner, Raymond Berner (Max Berner), Arlene Berner and Dorothy Fox, 14 nieces and nephews and multiple great and great, great nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jeanne Berner, his parents Frank and Hattie Berner, his brothers Cliff Berner and Larry Berner and brother-in-law Lorin Fox and sister-in-law Lola Berner.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, January 11, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 9 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial with military honors will be at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.  Services will also be held at Hansen Mortuary in Phoenix, Arizona on January 7, 2025.

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

Gerald J. Millwright

Gerald J. “Jerry” Millwright, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in rural LaMotte, Iowa, on December 31, 2024. Born in Maquoketa, Iowa, on January 25, 1941, to Harold and Marjorie (Coleman) Millwright, Jerry’s life was marked by his dedication to his family, his work, and his community.

Jerry graduated from Maquoketa High School and furthered his education by attending the University of Dubuque. On December 29, 1962, he married the love of his life, Donna Summers, in Mechanicsville, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with three daughters: Stacey, Lori, and Lisa. Jerry’s family was the pride and joy of his life, and he was a beloved patriarch who led with both strength and compassion.

For over 32 years, Jerry was a committed employee at John Deere in Dubuque, where he worked diligently and rose to the position of supervisor. Jerry’s commitment to his community was evident through his active involvement with the West Dubuque Jaycees and coaching the LaMotte Jaycees softball team. His service extended to his faith as a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in LaMotte and St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, as well as his civic duty on the Jackson County Conservation Board.

Jerry’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. An avid woodworker, he was renowned for his masterful creation of the world-famous koozie holder and lovingly handcrafted hope chests for each of his grandchildren. His green thumb was evident in his garden. He also found joy in boating on the Mississippi River. Jerry’s adventurous spirit shone through during his Side-by-Side rides through Jackson County, including a memorable 3-hour ride just last week. Above all, Jerry cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, whether it was on his acreage or simply being present in their lives.

Jerry’s legacy is one of laughter, love, and the occasional bout of stubbornness that endeared him to many. He was the “Chief” of his family, the leader of their pack, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him. His magical reunion with his beloved granddaughter Stefani, parents Harold and Marjorie, brother Terry, and nephew-in-law Ryan brings comfort to those he left behind. Jerry’s life was a testament to the power of showing up for those you love, and his memory will continue to inspire and guide his family and friends.

Those left to honor Jerry’s memory include his devoted wife, Donna Millwright; his daughters, Stacey (Steve) Mohr of Charlotte, IA, Lori (Pete “Zip” Gebhart) Millwright Ganzer of LaMotte, IA, and Lisa (Jon) Theisen of LeClaire, IA; his five grandchildren, Amanda Wagner, Mitchell (Lauren) Ganzer, Maddison (Brandon) Kirby, Allison (John Washington) Theisen, and Brad (Bethany) Mohr; and his seven great-grandchildren, Elijah Leary, Josefine, Elizabeth, and Charlotte Ganzer, Barrett Kirby, and Ava and Aden Mohr. He also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Deb Millwright and Carol Summers; his nieces and nephew, Emily Clark, Kayla (Mike) Goeser, Sherry (Shawn) Howell, and Chris Summers; and Stefani’s fiancé Jerod Haldin.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Marjorie Millwright; his brother, Terry Millwright; his in-laws, Markel and Gladys Summers; his brother-in-law, James Summers; his granddaughter, Stefani Ganzer; and his nephew-in-law, Ryan Clark.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  No public services are planned at this time.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family.  Cards and notes of support may be mailed to Carson Celebration of Life Center Attn: Gerald J. “Jerry” Millwright Family, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.

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

John W. Vonderhaar

John W. Vonderhaar, 84, of New Vienna, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Visitation for John will be held from Noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a prayer service will be held at 12 p.m. and the Dyersville American Legion services will be held at 6 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9:30 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial for John will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna, Iowa with Rev. Philip Agyei presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Boniface Cemetery with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

John was born on October 24, 1940 at his family home in New Vienna, Iowa, son of Albin and Agnes (Schwers) Vonderhaar.  He received his education from St. Boniface Catholic School in New Vienna, Iowa.  On November 14, 1961, he was united in marriage to Judith Lucas at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa.  Together the couple farmed on the family farm in the rural New Vienna area. This farm has been in the family since 1847 and has been recognized as a Century and Heritage Farm.  It was on this farm where the couple raised their three children along with fostering over 40 boys.

He was a member of the St. Boniface Parish in New Vienna, Iowa.  John was a veteran having served in the United States Army.  He was a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.  He was also a founding member of the Tri-County Sportsmens and the New Vienna area Historical Society.

Those left to cherish John’s memory are his wife of 63 years, Judy Vonderhaar of New Vienna; three children, Bill (Shirley) Vonderhaar of New Vienna, Susan (Travis) Meadows of Valparaiso, IN, and Mike (Shirley) Vonderhaar, Beloit, WI; 8 grandchildren, Johnathan, Sabrina, and Samuel Vonderhaar, Andrew and Lucas Vonderhaar;  Osman Alibasic (Sondra Bennett) of Dubuque, IA; Milisa (Pat) Torrance of Dyersville, IA;  Jacob, Rebecca, and Taylor Close; Tanner Meadows; Nancy (Doug) Hoefler of New Vienna, IA; Rebecca (Korey) Stockman; Chase Miller; one brother, Francis (Elaine) Vonderhaar of New Vienna; brothers and sisters-in-law, Tom (Ruth) Lucas of Dyersville, Mark (Jen Stansberry) Lucas of Coralville, John (Bev) Lucas of Sherrill, Joe (Michele) Lucas of Lake St. Louis, MO, Dan (Angie Phillips) Lucas of Minneapolis, MN, Carrie Schmitt of Richardsville, Connie (Leon) Jaeger of Dubuque and Barb Lucas of Iowa City; step brothers and sisters-in-law, Al (Jeanne) Kluesner of Dubuque, Peter (Karen) Kluesner of New Vienna, Duane (Mae) Kluesner of Holy Cross, and Chuck (Donna) Kluesner of Peosta; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; grandson Dillon Bond, Scott Close; one brother, Leonard (Margaret) Vonderhaar; two sisters, Theresa (Jim) Elgin, and Rita (Mel) Schuster; father and mother-in-law, Lawrence and Dolores (Meinen) Lucas; step mother-in-law, Dorothy (Englin) Kluesner-Lucas; brother-in-law, Mike Schmitt; step sister-in-law, Cathy Kluesner; step sister-in-law Jean Kluesner; three nephews, James, Randy, and Steve Vonderhaar; and one niece, Debra Burkart.

James Erpelding

James “Jim” Erpelding, 82, of Asbury, died Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, January 6, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Lyle Wilgenbusch as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

James was born November 29, 1942, in Algona, IA, the son of Francis and Evelyn (Steinman) Erpelding. On August 2, 1969, he married Linda Dalsing in Kieler, WI.

Jim graduated from Garrigan High School in Algona, IA in 1961. He attended Loras College, graduating with his Bachelor’s Degree in 1965, and later obtained his Master’s Degree in 1970.

Jim worked as a teacher at Sageville Elementary School for 31 years. He was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. He enjoyed reading and putting together jigsaw puzzles. He and Linda also loved to travel, making it to all 50 states. Jim was an Iowa Hawkeye football and basketball fan. Most of all, he enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s activities and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Linda of Asbury; two children, Jason (Ann) Erpelding of Cary, IL; and Sarah (Ben) Fern of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Alex, Kyle, and Erin Erpelding, and Evelyn, Micah, Emmett, and Amelia Fern; six siblings, Carol Turner of Denver, CO; Dick (Jean) Erpelding of Bode, IA; Ken (Connie) Erpelding of Marion, IN; Don (Jan) Erpelding of Des Moines, IA; Jan (Allen) Goche of Humboldt, IA; and Sandy Pieper of Fort Dodge, IA; sisters- and brothers-in-law, Charlene Erpelding of Phoenix, AZ; Denni Erpelding of San Antonio, TX; Steve (Mary) Dalsing of Hazel Green, WI; Susan (Dave) Placke of Hazel Green, WI; and Debbie (Marshall) Grice of Hanford, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his parents-in-law, Delmar and Elizabeth Dalsing; two brothers, Bob and Ray Erpelding; two brothers-in-law, Mike Turner and Stephen Pieper; and brothers- and sisters-in-law, Francis and Sharon Burd and Lisa Dalsing.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Dr. Ries, Dr. Janes, Dr. Powers, and the staff of Mercy ER, 3rd Floor, and ICU for all the care given to Jim.

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

John E. Vesely

John Edward Vesely, age 74, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 2024, while visiting family in Portland, Maine.  He was surrounded by his loving wife, Gerri, and their three sons.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 5th at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, January 6, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Columbkille Church in Dubuque with Fr. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

He was born on April 6, 1950, in Iowa City, Iowa.  John grew up in Williamsburg, Iowa where he graduated from Williamsburg High School in 1968.  After finishing his football career at Marshalltown Community College, he went on to graduate from the University of Northern Iowa in 1973 with a degree in Education.  He married Gerri Boge at St. Joseph Church on December 23, 1972, in Key West, Iowa.  John went on to serve as an educator and coach for 37 years.  He taught 5th grade, social studies, physical education, and became the elementary principal in the East Dubuque, Illinois School District.   He coached football, girls basketball, and baseball throughout the years and was inducted into the Northwestern Illinois Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.  He ended his education career in 2015 after serving as the principal at Bellevue Marquette.

Family and friends were very important to John.  He was a devoted son, husband, father, “Papa”, and brother.  He stayed close to his many friends from his school days to his newest friends he made in the community.

John had many talents, but one of the most interesting is that he could recall almost all of the athletes he coached names, jersey numbers and their graduation year.  He was a dedicated teacher, and he loved coaching.

John was a true Iowa Hawkeye Fan!  He bled the black and gold!  He and Gerri had season tickets for the football games for several years, but then started watching the games on TV with their dear friends.

Then there were his Chicago Cubs.  Win or lose, he followed them faithfully!  He even lived to watch them win the World Series!!! Holy Cow!!!

John was a very giving person.  Most recently he volunteered his time at the Dubuque Arboretum and Reflections in the Park.  As they say, “He would give the shirt off his back.”  His final gift was giving eyesight to two different people with his corneas.

John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Gerri, of Dubuque; his children Ben (Celena) of Ankeny, Iowa, Craig (Kim) of Cumberland, Maine, and Dr. Beau (Katie) of Bedford, New Hampshire; his grandchildren: Samuel, Elijah, Sarah, Michael, Eleanor, Clara, Aria, and Teddy; his siblings Ellen Folkman, Tom (Sandy) Vesely, and Mary (Larry) Hopp.

He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Colleen Vesely.  Brother-in laws: Larry Folkman, Lee Haywood, Thomas Hantelmann, David Husted, Dan Boge, and Loras Boge.

In lieu of flowers, the family will establish a memorial fund that will be used toward charities that John has supported.

The family is grateful for all the prayers, support and kind thoughts that have been expressed during this difficult time.