Obituaries Archive

Loras J. McLaughlin

Loras J. McLaughlin, 85, of Maquoketa, Iowa, beloved husband, father, and grandfather entered into eternal rest on Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Maquoketa Care Center.  He spent the last 2½ years at the care center, unable to return home due to many medical conditions and complications.

A funeral mass celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, June 5, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Friday, June 4, 2021, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Loras Joseph was born on February 27, 1936, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Frank and Lolita (Breitbach) McLaughlin.  He attended a one room country school for 8 years and was a 1954 graduate of Loras Academy in Dubuque.

In 1955, Loras enlisted in the Army, spending two years on active duty including one year in Frankfurt, Germany followed by two years in the reserves.

He met and married the love of his life, Mary Ann Yoerger, on October 1, 1960, in Bellevue, Iowa.  He was employed at John Deere, Dubuque but on November 2, 1960, returned to the farm due to the tragic death of his father following a farm accident.

Loras enjoyed being a farmer, raising livestock and crops along with various jobs selling feed, seed corn, and being a rural mail carrier for many years.  He enjoyed visiting with the patrons whether near the mailbox or walking across the yard, discussing farming and current events along with giving the small children a stick of gum.  In earlier years, his children would occasionally accompany him on the mail route and would receive an ice cream bar as they traveled through the Maquoketa Caves.

Loras and Mary Ann did not do extensive traveling but took many day trips and frequently had dinner with the family at the Moracco Supper Club and breakfast in town after Sunday mass.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary Ann McLaughlin of Maquoketa, IA; children, Michael (Shelly) McLaughlin of Maquoketa, IA, Jane (Bob) Stolen of Atkins, IA, Mark (Jeri) McLaughlin of Maquoketa, IA, and David (Christa) McLaughlin of Eldridge, IA; and 10 grandchildren, Alex and Haley McLaughlin, Megan, Jacob and Shannon Stolen, Austin and Brett McLaughlin, and Nile, Ella and Tate McLaughlin.  Loras was preceded in death by his parents, and sister and brother-in-law Mary Jean and Jack McCarthy.

The family would like to especially thank the staff at Maquoketa Care Center and Dr. Rickertsen for the wonderful and compassionate care given.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.

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

Denny Miller

Denny “Mibs” Miller, age 78, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 29, 2021 surrounded by his family.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Ave.,  on Friday, June 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Steven Garner officiating. To celebrate Denny’s life, visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Thursday, June 3, 2021 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 J.F. Kennedy Rd.  with a scripture wake  service at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with full military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

Denny was born on August 9, 1942, in Dubuque, son of Taft and Mary (McCarthy) Miller.  He attended St. Mary’s school, Loras Academy, and graduated from Senior High School. Denny joined the Iowa Army National Guard in 1963 where he served for 26 years. From a very early age, Denny knew the value of both family and friends. He was active with The Boys Club and loved to spend time with his family as one of five children. His mother said from a very early age, “you can just see the mischief in his eyes, can’t you?” He loved to laugh and always wanted others to do the same.

After many years of bowling, fishing, and playing ball, Denny proposed to Betty Koenig, of Farley, IA. They were joined in marriage on May 17, 1969 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. Together they raised 5 children. “Family First” was Denny’s motto, and he would do anything to provide for those he loved. He was a kind and generous man who would give the last of what he had to anyone in need. Denny’s love for family was clear; he was not afraid to tell you how much you meant to him. He was proud of his children and grandchildren and loved to talk about them to anyone who would listen.

Denny was employed by John Deer Dubuque Works for 42 years. He was a faithful employee and loved his job, but if you asked him, he’d tell you he gave up playing in the majors for a stable job to raise his family. Denny retired from John Deere in 2002. He was very involved in Sacred Heart Church with Men’s Club, choir, and parish festivals.

Denny was a life-long Dodgers fan and a die-hard Hawkeye. If there was a game on, you’d know where to find him.  He loved to cheer on his grandchildren during their sporting events and special activities. Denny loved to play card games and report who won, as he did not like to lose.  If Betty won, it was usually because “he had to help her.” He checked in with those he loved regularly. We will miss his daily phone calls, medical updates, our nicknames (#1, Brian Michael, Cabanski, #4, and Muff), and trying to figure out FaceTime. His never-ending support will always be treasured, and we will continue to live by his words… family first.

Those left to cherish Denny’s memory include his loving wife Betty, his 5 children: Dawn (Jim) Konrardy, Dubuque, IA; Brian (Chris) Miller, Dubuque, IA; Dana (Tony) Clasen, Waterloo, IA; Deanne (Matt) Blackford, Peoria, IL; Danielle (Stien) Davis, Naperville, IL; 17 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren, and his sister Jean Heer, Dubuque, IA.

Denny was preceded in death by an infant son, Douglas Michael, his parents, a sister in infancy, and his brothers Joe and Ronnie Miller.

Denny’s family would like to thank Dr. Mark Herman (and his nice ties), Dr. Hillard Salas, and his Palliative Care Team. Most of all, Denny’s children would like to thank their devoted mom for her intuition and always advocating to ensure he received the best care. He always said, “I don’t know what I’d do without her” and they feel the same way.

Jean E. Miner

Jean Elizabeth Miner, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 30th, 2021, at home.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, June 3, 2021, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Thursday at the church until time of service. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Jean was born on January 12, 1935, in Scotch Grove, IA the daughter of Irvin and Hannah (Rink) Himebaugh. She graduated from Monticello High School and from Finley School of Nursing.

Jean worked at Finley Hospital in Dubuque her entire career; she was past president of Luther Manor Board of Directors and served on the board for 29 years. She also was on the Board for Heath Services Credit Union.

On January 12, 1958, she was united in marriage to Verner George Miner at St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Monticello, IA.

From this marriage they were blessed with three wonderful children: Cathy (Russell) Weber, David (Diane) Miner and Douglas (Debbie) Miner.  Grandchildren: Monica (Scott) Genz, Kyle (Juliette) Weber, Jacob (Ashleigh) Miner, Brandon Miner, Alyssa (Nicholas) Lynch, Breon (Toby) Whelan, Luke Miner, and Blake Miner; eight great grandchildren with three on the way. One sister Sue Brokaw and three brothers Irvin, Gordon and Richard Himebaugh.

Jean loved her children and grandchild with all she heart; she was known to brag about them at every opportunity.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Marvin and sisters Dorothy and Ida.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care they gave to Jean.

Memorial may be given to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church or Hospice of Dubuque.

Sister Mary Jo Leifker

Sister Mary Jo Leifker, PBVM, formerly Sister Joseph Mary Leifker, 97, died on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at the Sisters of the Presentation Motherhouse (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

 Private visitation and funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, in Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation. Sister Mary Jo has chosen a “green burial,” and will be laid to rest in the cemetery of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dubuque, Iowa.

Sister Mary Jo, daughter of Benjamin and Julia (McKernan), was born Eleanor Rita Leifker on February 1, 1924, in Galena, Illinois. She entered religious life on August 15, 1947, as a Presentation Sister in Oregon, Illinois. She professed her perpetual vows on January 3, 1953 and did missionary work in Oregon, Illinois, for 16 years before her small community merged with the Dubuque Sisters of the Presentation in 1963.

Sister Mary Jo worked in food service with her Presentation community and engaged in direct ministry with people made poor. She volunteered as an advocate for residents in a local nursing home, assisted handicapped persons with religious education, comforted the sick and dying as a hospice volunteer and tutored adult stroke victims with reading and writing. Sister Mary Jo felt drawn to pray for peace, justice and reconciliation in our world. She had a special love and care for our Mother Earth and the environment. Supporting sustainability and systemic change for the common good, she worked tirelessly on behalf of recycling, encouraging others to do the same. Sister Mary Jo celebrated her 60th Jubilee in 2008 and retired at Mount Loretto in 2010. When asked how she wanted to be remembered, Sister Mary Jo said, “All I ask of you is to remember me as loving you.”

Surviving is her sister, Clara (Bob) Snyder, nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life more than 70 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Lucille (Bill) Mearns, Emily (Arthur) Janzen, Ursulene Greenlee, Florence (James) Ruhunke, Mary Ann (Eldron) Hocker, and her brothers Raymond (Nellie), Irenus, William (Mildred), Delbert, James (Marge), and Edward (Joan).

The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Frances G. Harry

Frances Genevieve Harry, 95, passed away on Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Bethany Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 AM, Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:30 to 10 AM, Wednesday at the church. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Frances was born on August 15, 1925, in Dubuque, the daughter of Fred Henry and Rose Regina (Freiburger) Welty. She married Robert Harry on November 27, 1941, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on January 27, 2015.

Frances was a life-long resident of Dubuque. She was a member of St. Anthoy’s Catholic  Church, where she was involved in the Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Eagles Lodge.

Frances is survived by her son, Robert S. (Loretta) Harry, of Goodyear, AZ; grandchildren, Renee and Todd Harry, and Robert and Ryan Esser; 3 great- grandchildren; and one brother.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Barbara Ann; granddaughter; grandson; sister; and two brothers.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Bethany Home or St. Anthony Catholic Church.

Frances is grateful for all the help of Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Liaboe and the nurses of second floor at Bethany Home, especially Ashley. Special thanks to her granddaughter, Renee and her husband, Kevin Shaw.

Mary E. Davis

Mary E. (Tittle) Davis, age 91, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at home with her loving family by her side.  To celebrate Mary’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Monday, June 7, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Mary’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Monday at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor Leah Barker officiating.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Mary Davis was born December 13, 1929, daughter of John K. and Sarah (Brandes) Tittle.

Mary began working at the Dubuque Packing Company at the age of 16, the Admiral Radio Company, then New Mexico Hospital, Lady of Lourdes, and Luther Manor as a nurses aide.  She then made the move to Ennoble Manor to serve as their Activity Director, and would retire from there in 1990.  She married Earl H. Davis Sr., on June 6, 1947, sadly he preceded her in death on September 28, 1999.  Mary always stayed busy and was a member of the Church of the Nazarene, the Orioles Club and a former officer of the Eagles Club Auxiliary.  Mary enjoyed raising small animals over the years including a woodchuck, raccoons, squirrels and numerous cats and dogs.  In her younger days she enjoyed babysitting her grandchildren.  She and Earl also adopted and cared for a foster son, Tomson Jones in New Mexico.  Mary was truly a kind soul who always took care of her family and anyone she ran across who was in need.  She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Surviving Mary are her 5 children,
Earl H. “Sparky” (Judy) Davis, Jr., Timken, KS,
Christine M. (John) Richardson, Dubuque, IA,
Bruce A. (Peggy Miller) Davis, Waterloo, IA,
Kimberly E. (John Bly) Erickson, Asbury, IA
and John K. Davis, Dubuque, IA;

17 grandchildren;

many great-grandchildren;

several great-great-grandchildren ;

her very special friends,
Pat (Teresa) Huston, MT;

a son-in-law,
Phillip Flynn, Dyersville, IA;

and her siblings,
Beverly Wenzel,
Diane Bush
and Rick (Tina) Tittle Sr., all of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Earl H. Davis Sr.; her daughters, Marietta Flynn and Beverly (Royce) Rowland; her baby sister, Darlene; and her brother, John K. Tittle Jr.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for all of their outstanding care of Mary, as well as her family during these past weeks.

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

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

Kathy L. Spear

Kathy L. Spear, age 64, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on January 22, 2021, at home, with her dear friends by her side.  To honor Kathy’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, June 12, 2021,at the Mines of Spain in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathy’s family.

Kathy was born on June 12, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, a daughter to Eugene C. and Kathleen M. (Schwendinger) Heeren.  She was born with a beautiful heart and soul and would share it so generously with the world around her throughout her entire 64 years among us.  Kathy’s passion in life was gardening through and through.  She eventually transformed her gifts in the garden into a viable business and became the proud owner of Kathy Spear Landscaping almost 20 years ago now.  Her vision and creations can be seen all over town and her last Parade of Ponds was the perfect culmination of all of the countless hours she had devoted to her dream.  Kathy was also known for her desire to live a natural and holistic lifestyle.  The wealth of knowledge she had gained over the years, especially when it came to essential oils, was simply amazing to everyone she helped.  Kathy viewed the world as a palate of positive potentials which only had to be explored, embraced, and embarked upon as each opportunity presented itself.  Kathy’s love for rocks and gems was also quite legendary and some of her fondest moments were found within her collection and attendance at the shows.  Kathy also enjoyed traveling, and wintering in Tucson with Jerry, always enjoying the time they had to simply relax and enjoy some quality time together.  We must not forget about Kathy’s love for cats as well.  She had 2 cuddling companions around her at all times and never missed a chance to cast a little love into their days, just as they did for her.  It’s quite difficult to imagine that Kathy has been called home so soon, but she surely didn’t go without a fight.  The last two years have been faced head on and with relentless determination, no matter what the cancer would throw at her next.  We are beyond blessed to have known and loved such an amazing fighter and will treasure forever every single memory which Kathy leaves behind.  We pray now that our prayers for peace from her earthly struggles have been answered and may the healing and loving hands of her Lord and Savior hold her securely until we meet again.  Thank you, Kathy, for knowing how to turn the minutes into moments and for never letting your light dim…not even a little!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathy include,

her son,
Kevin J. Fox, Epworth, Iowa;

her parents,
Eugene “Gene” Heeren, Dubuque, Iowa;
and Kathleen Schwendinger, Saint George, South Carolina;

her sisters,
Barb (Gene) Buhr, Faribault, Minnesota;
Tina (Mark) Linden, Cuba City, Wisconsin;
and Gina (Dan Sr.) Bonnett, Goodyear, Arizona;

her special friends,
Jerry Volk, Cascade, Iowa;
and Chris (Desiree) Bibb, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kathy’s family would like to thank everyone who has helped Kathy throughout her courageous battle with cancer, especially the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional, compassionate, and tender care of Kathy during her most difficult days.

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

Chester P. Smith

Chester Paul Smith, Jr., 84, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 9:40 a.m. Saturday, May 29, 2021 at home after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 4, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a funeral service will be at 7:00 p.m. Friday.

Chester was born on October 2, 1936 at Scales Mound, IL, the son of Chester and Charlotte (Brummer) Smith, Sr. He was united in marriage to Donna Blauvelt on July 19, 1997 in Dubuque, IA.

He was a graduate of St. Columbkille’s High School in Dubuque and was previously employed at the Dubuque Packing Co., then became a foreman for FDL and Farmland Foods in the Sausage Dept.  He currently worked at Walmart in Galena and will be remembered for breakfast with Chester where all of the proceeds went to the Children’s Miracle Network.

Chester served in the Army National Guard, loved fastpitch softball, bowling and traveling.

Surviving is his wife, Donna (Blauvelt) Smith; two daughters, Tina (Geoff) Luzier and Kathy (Tom) Feldman; two step-sons, Ben Blauvelt and Andrew (Chrystal) Blauvelt; seven grandchildren; two brothers, David (Sandy) Smith of Dubuque and Fred Smith of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Daniel Thomas Smith; and by sisters, Wanda Braund, Shirley Ann Smith and Mary Lou Smith.

Chester’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque for all of their support at this difficult time and for all they do.

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

Teresa M. Joens

Teresa M. (McCarthy) Joens, 36, of Marion, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, from a two in a half year battle with Leukemia, with her husband by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 3, 2021 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with The Rev. Peter Snieg and The Rev. Mark Murphy concelebrating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday.  There will be a private visitation for family only on Thursday morning at the funeral home. The funeral mass will be live-steamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.

Teresa was born on October 1, 1984 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of James W. and Cathy M. (Jasper) McCarthy.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 2003. Teresa graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. Teresa was employed as a Data Analyst at Raining Rose in Cedar Rapids, IA.

On May 28, 2016 she was united in marriage to Richard L. Joens at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. Teresa and Richard welcomed their only child, Christian on February 23, 2018. Christian was born prematurely with a birth defect and Teresa devoted all of her time to care for their child and never left his side while in the hospital. Due to her diligence, he was able to fully recover and is thriving.

She loved her husband and son, Christian deeply. Teresa enjoyed making people happy, a love for dogs, listening to NPR, cheering on her Hawkeyes and had a fierce love for her nieces and nephews. Amongst her hobbies she enjoyed traveling, art, history and was an amazing reader. On their honeymoon to Europe they enjoyed the Art Museums of Italy and also visited Paris, France. Her favorite city was Venice, Italy, and she looked forward to going back there again someday.

Surviving is her husband Richard; their son, Christian Dean Joens; her parents, Jim and Cathy (Jasper) McCarthy; and sister, Jessica (Patrick) Winders both of East Dubuque, and her brother, William McCarthy of Dubuque, IA; nieces and nephews, Alexander & Lucas Winders and Owen & Norah McCarthy; grandparents, Delores McCarthy of East Dubuque and Ralph & Richene Jasper of Dubuque; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert & Dianne Joens of Riceville, IA, in-laws, Daryl (Brenda) Joens of Osage, IA, and their children, Bailey, Jenna and Jackson, and Darla Joens of West Des Moines, IA, and her daughter, Laticia Joens, and her fiance Cody Peterson.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, James L. McCarthy.

Richard and family would like to extend special thanks to the Oncology Teams at UIHC, Iowa City, and Mercy Hospital, Cedar Rapids, and to CarePro of Cedar Rapids for the wonderful care given to Teresa.

In lieu of flowers, a Teresa M. Joens memorial fund has been established.

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

Lael T. Larkin

Lael Theresa Larkin, 75, passed away on May 8, 2021, at St. Dominic Villa at Sinsinawa, following a 6-week battle with cancer. A gathering will be held from 2 to 4 PM, Sunday, June 6, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. The funeral mass will be 11 AM, Monday, June 7, 2021, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Hazel Green, WI officiating will be Fr. Dan Davis. A committal service will be held in Calvary Cemetery, Sioux City, IA at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, officiated by Deacon Fred Karpuk.

Daughter of Philip and Eileen (McGrane) Larkin, Lael was born on October 27th, 1945, in Sioux City, IA. Her parents were the proprietors of the Larkin Funeral Homes. She shared her childhood with her eight siblings, Shaun, Michael, Maureen, Gene, Kevin, Kerry, Robert (Dennis), and Padraic. She attended Blessed Sacrament Elementary and graduated from Bishop Heelan Catholic High School in 1963. She went on to complete her nurse’s training at Saint Vincent Hospital School of Nursing in 1967. Lael was married to Daniel C. Smith from 1972-1977, and they had three “wonderful children” (as she always said). She practiced nursing in a variety of settings including mental health, chemical dependence recovery, and nursing homes. She worked in multiple cities including Minneapolis, MN; Dubuque, IA; Sioux City, IA; Steamboat Springs, CO and Sioux Falls, SD. She spent the largest portion of her nursing career as the Director of Nursing at the Good Samarian Village in Sioux Falls, SD. She moved to Hazel Green, WI, in 2007, and resided at the Academy Senior Apartments in Sinsinawa for the past 12 years.

Lael was an exceptionally loving mother, grandmother, sister, nurse, and friend. She had an unabated passion for caring for others, and she left a tremendous impression on those whose lives she touched. The size of her heart was felt in her beautiful smile, her infectious laugh, and her comforting hugs. She loved to tell stories, and she took great joy in the successes of her children and grandchildren. She loved attending sporting events, musical performances, plays, and graduations. She was a prolific writer. Additionally, her spirituality and faith were endless. As a nurse, Lael appreciated the wisdom that came with age and the dignity that is deserved with illness and vulnerability. She was immersed in the often difficult balance of maintaining a successful career and being a single mother, while still providing leadership and compassion to her patients and colleagues. Somehow, throughout the trials of life and the illness she battled, Lael was always able to demonstrate courage, faith, compassion, and an ever-present sense of humor. She will be missed terribly, but her love and light will carry on indefinitely through her family and friends.

Lael is survived by her three children: Rebecca Kruse (Chad) of Galena, IL; David Smith (Hillary Howard) of Denver, CO; Barbara Smith (Marc Ternes) of San Marcos, CA; and her nine grandchildren: Evan, Ellis, Claire, Cole, Nixon, Eli, Orly, Rocky, and Tali. In lieu of flowers, Lael requested that all memorials are given to Hospice of Dubuque @ https://hospiceofdubuque.org/donation

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

Mary K. Donohue Levens

Mary K. Donohue Levens, age 82 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, May 17, 2021. Funeral mass will be 11:30 AM, Saturday, June 12, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena. Friends may call from 10:30, Saturday, June 12, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena. Burial will be in St. Michaels cemetery, Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born December 2, 1938, in Galena, the daughter of Francis J. and Lenora (Bussan) Donohue. Mary graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1956 and attended Clarke College. Mary was united in marriage to Ronald Levens on July 11, 1959.  She worked at the Dowling House and the Little Britch’in Post.  She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Mary is survived by her husband, Ronald, three children, Scott (Linda) of Huntsville, AL, Ronda of St. Louis, MO, and Michael (Lara) of Galena, three grandsons, Justin (Laura) Levens, Nicholas and Benjamin Rosenthal, two granddaughters, Annette Davison and Sara Levens, three great- grandchildren, Shelby Davison, Felix and Greta Levens, one sister, Pat Longtin, two bothers in-law, Thomas (Barbara) Levens of Belvidere, IL and John “Dick” (Linda) Levens of Mission Viejo, CA, three sisters in-law, Elaine Smith of Hazel Green, WI, JoAnn Hubbard of Newport Richey, FL, Grace Bins of Bloomington, IL and special friends Doris Glick of Galena and Mary Rettenmeier of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother in infancy, Michael Donohue, her husband’s parents Justin and Alberta Levens, four brothers’ in-law, John Longtin, Earl Smith, Frank Bins and Dan Levens.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Midwest Medical Center, Galena, Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten. Online condolences maybe left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Debra C. Krier

Debra C. (McClain) Krier, age 66, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 5:45 p.m., on Friday, May 28, 2021, at her home with her loving family at her side.  To celebrate Debra’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Debra’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Debra was born on February 22, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Herbert and Elizabeth (Honerbum) McClain.

Debra graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She was a hard worker and was employed with the Telegraph Herald, Mercy Family Pharmacy, which became MercyOne, and also with Stonehill Care Center.  When she was able to find a little free time for herself, Debra loved to sit and quietly read a good book, crochet and put together jigsaw puzzles.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Church until its closing when she began attending Sacred Heart Church.  Her family meant the world to her and Debra always made sure that everyone knew how loved they were and that they were well taken care of.  Debra will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Debra’s memory include

her children,
Debra E. (Scott Huff) Ballew,
David A. Krier
and Daniel H. (Jodie) Krier, all of Dubuque, IA;

her 6 grandchildren,
Marissa, Katelyn, Justin, Olivia, Natalie, Christian and Jace;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Mariya, Lanaya, Messiah and Caspian;

her siblings,
Joan (Jim) Reinsbach, Fennimore, WI,
Willard McClain
and Dennis (Ann) McClain, both of Hazel Green, WI;

and several nieces and nephews.
Debra was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Maranda Ann; her brother, Bob McClain Sr.; and a nephew, Joseph McClain.

Debra’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mercy and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kindness and support throughout Debra’s battle with cancer.

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

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

Robert A. Clark

Robert Allen Clark, 80, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at his home surrounded by family.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 31, 2021, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church located at 1755 Delhi St. in Dubuque with Pastor Josh Martyn officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church.

Robert was born on October 5, 1940, in Jackson County, Iowa the son of Walter and Irma (Manning) Clark. He grew up in the rural Maquoketa area. Robert married Mary E. Nielsen on August 14, 1960, and together they shared almost 60 years of marriage.

Robert worked as a welder for Caterpillar in Eldridge, IA for 16 years. Robert and Mary then ran R & M Auto Sales in Maquoketa, IA. After his retirement he worked at Lowe’s for 6 years.

Robert enjoyed nature, gardening, traveling, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. In his free time, he would catch up on the news and attend the occasional auction.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary; his children, Douglas (Pennie) Clark of San Pedro, CA, Jim (Michelle) Clark of Dubuque, IA, Robert Clark of Milton, FL, Jessica Klein of Dubuque, IA, and Amy (Tony) Quatrochi of Zwingle, IA; his siblings Ronald Clark of Deming, NM, Darlene (Dave) Densmore and Mona Kay Christofferson all of Camanche, IA. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Corinne Clark; and brothers, Dale, Donald, Jerry, and Elmer Clark.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Cao, Dr. Whalen, Dr. Khan and his nurse Greg from ICU at Finley Hospital for the wonderful care they provided to Robert.

Nona R. Nigg

Nona Rita (Schroeder) Nigg, 89 died on May 24, 2021 of natural causes at the home of her daughter in Minneapolis.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 4th at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of services Friday at the church.

 Nona was born September 3, 1931 in Dyersville, Iowa, the daughter of Mary K. (Macke) and Joseph F. Schroeder. She graduated from St. Francis Xavier High School in Dyersville and received her degree in English with honors from Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa.  Nona taught school for a short time in Hampton, Iowa before moving to Dubuque to work at the Telegraph Herald. She lived in Dubuque until 2018. Nona met her husband, Jim at a poetry writing class in Dubuque and they were married at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville on October 6, 1956. She later worked as a proofreader and editor at WC Brown Company publishers, did freelance writing and editing for the local magazine, Julien’s Journal, and worked 12 years for Project Concern as an Information and Referral specialist – a job in which she greatly enjoyed helping people. Nona also volunteered at Project Concern, St. Anthony’s church and school, phone-a-friend crisis line, girl scouts and more. She was a member of St. Anthony’s parish for many years where she was a member of the Emmaus Community and a volunteer on Prayer Line. An avid reader who enjoyed book clubs, Nona would often share high-quality books with her family and others, and with her legendary memory, quoted poetry apt to many a situation. Travels took her to Alaska, Florida beaches, California, Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon and everywhere her children lived.

In her last years she was a resident of Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque and Mt. Olivet Careview Home in Minneapolis where her daughter lived. She was able to spend the last year of her life at her daughter Catherine’s home during the pandemic – a great blessing for all. She was known throughout her life and even by her end-of-life caregivers for her love of books, thoughtful and creative writing, and her kind and gentle manner, quiet wisdom, constant ‘thank you’ and dry wit that brought many smiles to caregivers. She loved the beauty of nature and was always a faith-filled person seeking to understand and share her faith. Her most joyful times were raising her children and spent with family.

Nona is survived by her three children Joel (Angela) of Portland, OR; Stephen (Diane) of Anchorage, AK; Catherine Nigg of Minneapolis, MN; grandson Joseph James Nigg, step grandson Andy Waterworth and step great grandchildren Scarlett and Archer Waterworth; two sisters Elaine O’Neill (the late T. William O’Neill) and Lois Vasko (the late John Vasko).

Nona was preceded in death by her beloved husband James R. Nigg; her parents; brother LeRoy Schroeder and sister-in-law Janice (Sartor) Schroeder; a brother and sister-in-law John (Jack) and Joan (Haslett) Nigg; sister-in-law Shirley McDonough and brother-in-law Charles McDonough.

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

Alberta C. Conner

Alberta “Bert” C. Conner, 88, of Dubuque died Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Stonehill Care Center. Private graveside services were held Saturday, May 29 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Bert was born October 21, 1932 in Keokuk, Iowa, daughter of Albert and Thelma (Smith) Redlinger. In 1951 she married Cloyd Conner. Bert worked at a variety of jobs throughout the years and lived a simple life.

She loved to sew, knit and craft beautiful items for her family. Her homemade pies and pumpkin bread were family favorites. Bert was an avid football fan, especially the Hawks, and loved watching professional golf. Her family was most important to her, and she was always available to listen and offer a helping hand. She will be deeply missed!

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Tim) Pfiffner of Dubuque; grandchildren, Robin (Scott) Filseth of Dubuque and Lindsay (Jared) Nauholz of Cedar Falls; great grandchildren, Emily, Elaina, Elisabeth, Ava, Olivia and Lincoln and two sisters, Naoma (Marty) Flavin of South Carolina and Shirlee Clark of Colorado.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.