Obituaries Archive

Dorothy E. Frick

Dorothy E. Frick, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 7:10 a.m., on Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her family. To celebrate Dorothy’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue. To honor Dorothy’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday at Holy Ghost Church, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Dorothy was born on November 20, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Herman and Pauline (Armbruster) Frick.

Dorothy was a graduate of the Immaculate Conception Academy, Class of 1945. She was employed in the office with H&W for 45 years until she retired in 1992. She and her friend Betty Wiezorek also ran Custom Photo for 10 years. Dorothy’s faith was extremely important to her. She was a very active member of Holy Ghost Church and did volunteer work with the Shalom Retreat Center gift shop for 15 years. Dorothy was very creative as was evidenced with her flower arranging skills, making rosaries, and beautiful embroidery pieces. She was famous for the dish towels she made to donate to Holy Ghost Church every year. Her family meant the world to Dorothy and she enjoyed taking her nieces and nephews on short trips around the area and to the Wisconsin Dells. Dorothy was a kind and generous woman who always made time for others. She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Dorothy’s memory include several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Bertha (Leroy) Risley, Clara (John) Becker, Gertrude (Celestine “Sox”) Burkett, Leonard Frick, Coletta (Gilford “G.J.”) Hohnecker, Marian Schmerbach, Frank “Bud” (Esther) Frick, and Mae (Richard) Noel.

Dorothy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind and compassionate care of Dorothy and her family.

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

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

Thomas J. Blaser

Thomas J. Blaser, age 56, of Peosta, passed away at 8:15 p.m., on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Tom’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Tom’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon Bill Biver officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Tom was born on December 28, 1964, in Dubuque, son of Gerald and Rosemary (Wagner) Blaser.

Tom attended St. Joseph the Worker Grade School and went on to graduate from Dubuque Senior High School.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Margaret “Maggie” Cavanaugh, on April 21, 1990, at St. John’s Episcopal Church. They were blessed to celebrate their 31st wedding anniversary together last month.  In October of 2002, Tom and Maggie bought Dubuque Fire Equipment, which they have proudly owned and operated ever since. They made a dynamic team and everyone knew how devoted Tom was to all of his clients. When he did have some free time on his hands, Tom spent as much time as possible in the great outdoors. He went camping, morel hunting, fishing and attended many of his children’s sporting events. Tom also liked spending time in the kitchen, using all of his latest gadgets to create some spectacular meals. Above all, Tom loved his family. He cherished time spent with Maggie and the kids, but everyone knew that his grandson was the apple of his eye. We are truly heartbroken at losing Tom in our daily lives, but we know that he is now resting peacefully, free of all the health issues he has faced so gracefully. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include

his loving wife,
Maggie Blaser, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Timothy (Nikki) Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA,
Allison (fiancé Tony Suckow) Blaser, Dubuque, IA
and William Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA;

his grandson,
Liam James “L.J.” Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA;

his siblings,
Jim (Lesa) Blaser, Minneapolis, MN,
Kim (Terry) Averkamp, Iowa City, IA,
Cindy (Craig) Manternach, Peyton, CO,
Mary Jo (Ken) Richmond, Phoenix, AZ
and Toni Cox, Winthrop, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; and his father-in-law, Terry Cavanaugh; and his mother-in-law, Jacqueline Hardin.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Hermann and the outstanding nurses and staff of Finley Hospital, for all of their kindness, compassion and professional care of Tom.

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

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

David E. Watters

David E. Watters, 73, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, May 25, 2021 in Iowa City, Iowa. A graveside service with military rites will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

David Ellsworth Watters was born on October 28, 1947 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Oscar “Abe” and Virginia (Clark) Watters. He was a 1966 graduate of Maquoketa High School and served his country in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. He married Linda McCoy in 1968 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Thomas and John.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, David worked at Wilson’s Packing in Cedar Rapids. He then moved his family to Maquoketa and worked at Caterpillar in Mount Joy until the plant closed. Shortly thereafter he moved to southern Arizona, returning to Maquoketa in 2019.

David was a member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether and the Andrew AMVETS Post #62.

Those left to honor his memory include two children, Thomas Watters of Maquoketa, IA, and John Watters of Maquoketa, IA; 1 grandchild, Kiley Watters; a brother, Larry Watters of Maquoketa, IA; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Jane Collins, and a grandchild Zachariah Watters.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a David E. Watters memorial fund has been established.

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

Timothy R. Schmitz

Timothy R. “Tim” Schmitz, age 67, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:55 p.m., on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital. To celebrate Tim’s life, the family will hold a gathering at a later date. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Tim was born on September 2, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of LeRoy J. and Rosemary (Basten) Schmitz of Potosi, Wisconsin.

Tim attended Potosi High School before joining the U.S. Army in March of 1971, to honorably serve his country. After his service Tim went to work for Caradco and then St. Regis Paper in Dubuque. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Linda Halverson, in 1975. They were blessed with 2 wonderful children and 30 years together before she sadly passed away in 2005. After they married, the couple relocated to the Big Sky State of Montana, where Tim went to work for the lumber mills. He lived there for many years before returning to Dubuque in 2018. When Tim found some free time in his days he enjoyed woodworking, playing cards and dominos and spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. His favorite pastime was riding his motorcycles. We are deeply saddened at Tim’s passing, but know that he is now at peace and free of all the health issues he has battled these past years.

Those left to cherish Tim’s memory include

his daughter,
Brandi (Michael) Stockton, Denver, CO;

his granddaughters,
Jessie and Nichole Stockton;

and his siblings,
Steve (Lynn) Schmitz, Dubuque, IA,
Libby (Wayne) Sides, Cuba City, WI,
Joseph (Rony Mohram) Schmitz, Falls Church, VA,
Mike (Deb) Schmitz, Dubuque, IA
and Rob Schmitz, Philippines.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda Schmitz; a son, Joshua Schmitz; a sister, Sandra Schmitz; and 3 brothers, Benjamin Schmitz, Nick Schmitz and Rick Schmitz; and his in-laws, Bud and Ella Halverson.

Tim’s family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire and Ambulance crew for their caring, respectful and professional care of Tim. Also thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Finley Hospital Emergency Department for their care and compassion.

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

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

Bernice E. Watters

Bernice E. Watters, 95, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 24, 2021, at WestWing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, June 4, 2021 at First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. until service time on Friday at the church. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is in charge of the arrangements.

Bernice Ethel Hopson was born on August 1, 1925 near Iron Hill in Jackson County, Iowa, to James and Flora (Dutton) Hopson. She was a 1943 graduate of Maquoketa High School where arithmetic was her favorite subject. This love for math led her to a career in the banking industry. First working at Jackson State Bank and then Maquoketa State Bank where she was in the lending department and worked under the Vice President of the bank.

Bernice met her future husband when he moved into her neighborhood in her younger years. She married Milton M. Watters on May 5, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa. They had two daughters, Janiece and Joellen.

Bernice was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa and enjoyed dancing and playing cards. She always liked an adventure, loved to travel and had been all over the world except for Antarctica. She was especially proud of her family.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Janiece (and husband Dale Hinz) Mackenzie of Elwood, IA, and Joellen Wilson of Busselton, Western Australia; 4 grandchildren, Keesha, Sol, Abbie and Kate; 9 great-grandchildren; a special friend and companion since 1986 Jerry Feugen; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Milton on January 5, 1982, 4 brothers Earl, Francis, Ralph and Walter, and a sister Pearl Stoll.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Bernice E. Watters memorial fund has been established.

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

Shirley A. Ruff

Shirley A. Ruff, 87, of Dubuque, died Monday, May 24, 2021, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial for Shirley will be 10:30 am Friday, May 28, 2021, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor Thomas E. Toale as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Shirley was born July 23, 1933, in Dubuque, the daughter of Carl and Kathryn Scholtes Waldbillig. On July 16, 1955, she married Philip J. Ruff at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died June 7, 2019.

She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High and worked for the Dubuque Community School System for 22 years.

She was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Mother’s Club, Precious Moments Club, and Power of Prayer.

Some of Shirley’s most treasured memories as a child were visiting the family farm in Otter Creek, Iowa where her mother grew up and then as an adult taking her children there too. Shirley enjoyed sewing for her children and being involved with their activities. She loved to travel and seeing new places. Shirley also enjoyed spending time with her family and she was always up for a good game of Euchre.

Survivors include her nine children, Thomas Ruff, Maria (Kevin J.) Kruser, Terrence (Jill Fondell) Ruff, and Michael Ruff, all of Dubuque, Rhonda (Steve) Balk of Clive, IA, Deborah Dolezal of West Bend, WI, Julie (Brian) Trentz and Eric (Stacey) Ruff, both of Bettendorf, IA; and Chris (Deb) Ruff of Marion, IA; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Ron (Carrie) Waldbillig of Kansas City, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two granddaughters, one grandson, and one brother, Robert Waldbillig.

A special thank you to the staff at Bethany Home for their loving care and support.

A Shirley Ruff memorial has been established.

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

Jerry D. Donath

Jerry D. Donath, age 64, of Dubuque, went home to be with the Lord at 6:58 a.m., on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Jerry’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, May 28, 2021, at Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church, 12805 Seippel Road. To honor Jerry’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church, with Pastor Lynn Spicer officiating. Burial will be at a later date following cremation. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Jerry was born on November 10, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Walter P. and Virginia L. (Davis) Donath.

Jerry grew up in Dubuque and attended school at Irving Elementary and Washington Middle School. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Ann Menadue, on December 12, 1985, in Dubuque. Jerry was a hard worker who was employed as a semi driver with different firms throughout the years including T&H Transportation, until his retirement in 2020, due to heath complications. He was also a very faithful and active member of Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church who truly loved his home bible study group. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed going fishing, playing cards, entering Euchre tournaments and spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren. He and Mary also traveled extensively, with Alaska being one of their favorite destinations. We are deeply saddened at Jerry’s passing, but find some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully free of the health issues he has faced so bravely here on Earth.

Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory include

his wife,
Mary Ann Donath, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Luke Donath,
Jacob (Tasha) Donath,
Mallory (Joshua) Donath-Pavao,
Sam (Stephanie Jones) Donath
and Kya Donath, all of Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Sonora, Ava, Alannah, Joseph, Sophia, Brantley, Bentley, Carter and Tucker;

his siblings,
Rick (Mary) Donath,
Walter R. Donath,
Brenda Briggs
and Greg (Nadine) Donath, all of Dubuque, IA;

and two sisters-in-law,
Cindy Donath, Dubuque, IA
and Connie (Alvin) LeGrand, Zwingle, IA.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Owen Donath; his in-laws, Joseph R. Menadue and Rita M. Menadue; two brothers-in-law, Sidney Hines and Richard J. Menadue; a sister-in-law, Kathy L. Menadue; and a niece, Kristina Donath.

Jerry’s family would like to thank all of his care givers and friends throughout the years including Dr. Whalen and his nurses, Jeremy, Kristy and Wendy, Pastor Spicer, and all of the members of the Faith Temple Family. Your care and support have meant the world to us.

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

Roger W. Svoboda

Roger W. Svoboda, “Mr. S.”, age 89 of Cuba City, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Eagle Pointe Place on Sunday, May 23, 2021 in Dubuque, Iowa. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 31, 2021, at St. Rose of Lima Church, Cuba City, Wisconsin, with the Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Services will be live streamed though Facebook on the funeral home page. Burial will be in the St. Rose Cemetery with military rights accorded. A public visitation for friends will be held from 2-6:00 p.m. Sunday at Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City where there will be a Parish Wake Service at 1:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Monday at the church before the service.

Roger was born January 19, 1932 to the late Fred and Sylvia (Jirsa) Svoboda of Oak Park, Illinois. Roger was raised by his step-mother, the late Florence McCaskill Svoboda, after his mother died in 1934.

His family moved to Lakemoor, IL when he was young and he attended McHenry High School in McHenry, IL graduating in 1950. He enlisted into the U.S. Army on the GI Bill and was sent to Korea. He was discharged as a Sergeant in 1954, met his future wife, the late Marilyn Svoboda, and they married on October 30, 1954, celebrating 61 years of marriage before her death in November of 2015. He attended Vandercook College of Music while working several different jobs and graduated in 1959. Roger taught music at Spaulding Schools in Waukegan, IL for six years and spent the next 30 years as Band Director and Choral Director for Cuba City School District, producing one of the top High School Bands in Marching, Concert, and Jazz in the State of Wisconsin.

Roger’s love of music also was evident in the time spent traveling with over 20 different bands throughout his life in the Cuba City/Dubuque area, some of them being: four Busch Family bands, Dick Juergens, Larry Foster, Joey Paradisio, Hunter Fuerste, and Paul Hemmer. Most notably, Roger was also a member of the Al Pierson Band and spent over seventeen years with the Guy Lombardo Band, directed by Al Pierson, performing in 45 different states and 17 different countries. Roger was in the movie “Gaily Gaily” as a member of the band and met Beau Bridges while filming in Galena, IL. While performing with the Guy Lombardo Band, Roger got to meet Drew Carey on “The Price is Right” and performed at one of the Inaugural Balls for George W. Bush, and was asked to play and travel with Grand Funk Railroad. Roger also performed with The Larry Busch Band and performed many solo piano concerts and sang to the residents of Eagle Pointe Place during the years he lived there.

Roger was a member of the American Legion, St. Rose of Lima Parish, American Federation of Musicians, and Wisconsin Education Association Council-Retired.

Roger was awarded “Teacher of the Year” for the State of Wisconsin and “Citizen of the Year” for Cuba City by the Lions Club. In 2014, Roger was recognized as “A Distinguished Person” that graduated from McHenry Illinois High School.

His hobbies included fishing, golfing, and gambling at Q Casino. Roger loved a good poker game, playing every Wednesday and Saturday with his friends at Eagle Pointe and as often as possible with his “teacher” friends from Cuba City.

“Mr. S” loved teaching and was so very proud of all of his students, many of them who have kept in touch with him over the years.

Roger is survived by his four daughters, Marla Laudenslager (Jack) of St. Louis, MO, Lisa Haverland (Don) of Dubuque, IA, KaraLynn Turner (Eldon) of Homasassa, FL, and Andrea Staver (Steve) of Shullsburg, WI; his grandchildren, Ryan and Megan Laudenslager, Jaclyn Rupp, Allison Leitzinger, Melissa Scott, and Sara Turner; his seven great-grandchildren, Madeline, Ava, Alex, Jaelyn, Briggs, Briar, and Maelee; a brother-in-law, Don Phalin; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marilyn and his son, RJ; his grandchildren, Timothy and Christopher Haverland; his brothers, Fred J. (Anne) and Robert (Catherine); most recently, his sister Arline Phalin; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Joseph & Virginia Schiwinger.

The family wishes to thank the Eagle Pointe Staff, Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Healy and Staff, Dr. Mohr and Staff, and Home Instead for their help and great care of Roger.

In lieu of flowers, A Roger W. Svoboda Memorial Fund has been established and will be used for scholarships. Donations may also be made to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Rose of Lima Parish.

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

Jacquelyn Fitzgibbons

Jacquelyn “Jackie” Fitzgibbons, 54, of Dubuque, IA passed away on May 20, 2021 at MercyOne Medical Center after a long courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a prayer service will be at 7:00 p.m. Private family burial with committal prayers will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Rev. Msgr. James Miller as officiant.

Jackie was born on November 20, 1966 in Dubuque, IA the daughter of Larry and Shirley (Finn) Oglesby Sr. She attended the Cathedral and Nativity Grade Schools and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.

On June 30th, 1994 she married Kelly Fitzgibbons in Dubuque.

Jackie worked for Manor Care, American Trust and Hartig’s in Dubuque. She was a member of the Girls Club, MIPL Pool League, Dubuque Volleyball and Dubuque Softball League.

Jackie was talented at all sports especially volleyball. She played sports while in high school and continued on as an adult until May of 1992. In 1992 she shattered her knee from a giant cell tumor; Iowa City rebuilt her knee, but she never regained full function of the knee. She retired from playing sports and found interest in camping, canoeing, boating and fishing.

Twenty-two years later, the crushing diagnosis of Osteosarcoma in the same knee was found. Surgery was completed, Jackie then spent the next six years learning to walk and going through chemotherapy sessions. She was an inspiration for so many; she fought for her life and did it with such dignity and grace.

She had a contagious laugh, and her smile would light up the room. Jackie loved spending time with her family especially the grandchildren. She was one of five children and Jackie was the glue of the family.

She is survived by her husband Kelly; her daughter Heather Fitzgibbons; grandchildren John, Jahkiaya, Justice, Dynasty, Joseph and Joselyn. Her sister Vickie (Bill) Sauser; two brothers Kevin Oglesby and Larry (Mandy) Oglesby; in-laws, Bill (Patricia) Doran, and Charles Goodwin, along with aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jackie was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Debbie Cashman.

The family would like to thank the Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Dr. Farrington and staff and to MercyOne Home Care especially Mary Kay for all their care and kindness.

Richard W. Reinhardt

Richard W. Reinhardt, 59, of Dubuque passed away on Thursday May 20th, 2021. There will be a celebration of life at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Wednesday May 26th. Visitation will be from 10 am – 11am followed by a funeral mass in his honor with Fr. Steve Garner officiating. He will then be laid to rest at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Richard was born August 3rd, 1961 in Dubuque to Ferdinand and Rosemary (Knobbe) Reinhardt. He graduated from Hempstead High school in 1979. He had a passion for music which he practiced through the successful DJ and Karaoke business he owned for many years. He also owned his own tavern and billiards hall in downtown Dubuque for a number of years. He had a passion for bulldogs which he put on display though his collection of figurines he enjoyed, to remind him of all the wrinkled, fuzzy faces he loved throughout the years. He owned a Harley Davidson that he enjoyed when he could and passed the love of motorcycles onto his sons. He enjoyed the time that he spent with his children and grandchildren, always spoiling them and being silly to make sure they always had a smile on their faces.

Those left to honor his memory are his five children, Melissa Reinhardt, Amy (Paul) Hartwell, Andrea Reinhardt & (Partner Johnny Zambrano), Matthew Reinhardt & (Partner Pamela Murphy), and Shayne Reinhardt & (partner Samantha McCarron). His grandchildren Emma, Charlotte, Kamber, Dawson, Averee, Noa, Isla, Leo, and Wesley. Three sisters, Karla Reinhardt, Karen Orcutt, Kimberly (Marty) Schuster, and one brother Randy Reinhardt. Many aunts, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rosemary and Ferdinand Reinhardt Sr., his brother Ferdinand Reinhardt Jr, brother-in-Law John Orcutt, and his cousins Richard Hoell, and Dean Knobbe.

We would like to give special thanks to Karla and Randy for the many things they did for him and always being there. Thank you to the Sunny Crest Manor team for the care they provided.

Helen A. Bellmann

Helen A. Bellmann, 96, of Durango, passed away Friday, May 21, 2021, at home.
Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 3:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 26, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 27, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, 2921 Central Ave., Dubuque. Rev. Steven Garner will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Helen was born December 21, 1924 in Dubuque, the daughter of Frank and Rose (Oakley) Kruse. She married Joseph Bellmann on June 5, 1945, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dubuque. Joe preceded her in death on October 2, 2002.

Helen served as Postmaster for Durango for many years. In her later years, she mentioned to her family that she had now been retired longer than she had worked.

Helen loved flowers and gardening; she was always up for a good card game – any card game –
whether it was euchre or rummy. She was still beating her family at cards as recently
as the last few weeks. Helen enjoyed playing Bingo, especially at Holy Ghost, where Joe would
work and she would play.

Helen is survived by two sons, Dennis (Terry) Bellmann, and David (Cindy) Bellmann, both of
Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Cory (Jill) Bellmann, Jessica (Jamie) Ehrlich, Jodi (Chuck)
Schnering, Christa (Bob) Childers, Alison (Nathan) Engelken, Ryan (Rachel) Kieffer, and Bobbi
Jo Bellmann; 19 great grandchildren; her sister, Margaret Johnson; her brother-in-law, Rudy
(Joan) Bellmann, of Dubuque; and her sister-in-law, Luella “Lou” Bellmann, of Key West, IA.

In addition to her husband, Helen was preceded in death by two grandchildren in infancy, Adam
and Amy; her brothers, Gilbert, Arthur, and Edward Kruse; and her sisters, Theresa Dausener,
Edna Henkels, Doris Trierweiler, Alice Dalbkermeyer, and a sister in infancy.

Kenneth L. Tscharner

Kenneth L. Tscharner, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the 12 noon Funeral Service on Tuesday, May 25, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Interment will be in Linwood Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded.

Kenneth was born on Nov. 29, 1931, in Dubuque, son of Bartholomew and Esther (Tischhauser) Tscharner. He attended Derby Grange School.

He married Rose Schlitzer on June 9, 1953, at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ in Dubuque.

Kenneth was a dairy farmer for many years.  He loved his farm and enjoyed antique tractor shows, collecting model tractors, fishing, playing Euchre and going out to eat.

Surviving are his children, JoAnn (Rich Lovell) Lehs, of Norwalk, Lawrence (Sherri) Tscharner, of Dubuque, Diane (Russell) Coble, of Johnston, Bonnie (Joe) Hess, of Inver Grove Heights, Minn., and Janann (Tony) Schmitt, of Durango; seven grandchildren, Dawn (Tony) Herman, Nicole Tscharner, Kara (Russell) Simon, Austin, Christopher and Tristan Coble and Matthew Hess; three great grandchildren, Rosie Herman and Madelyn and Ashton Simon.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Rose; and his grandson Joey Hess.

Memorials may be given to Grand View United Methodist Church.

Ruth M. Schmidt

Ruth M. Schmidt, 90 of Galena, IL passed away Wednesday May 19, 2021, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. Funeral services will be 11 AM, Thursday, May 27, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

She was born July 7,1930 in Elizabeth, IL the daughter of Louis and Marie (Winter) Schumacher. As a young woman she worked as a bookkeeper for Albrecht Brothers John Deere Dealer. She married Marion B. “Pete” Schmidt on January 31, 1953. They lived in Elizabeth and owned Schmidt’s Cafe. Together they operated the restaurant until their move to Galena where they opened Pete’s Steakburger Inn. They sold the restaurant in 1990. Ruth continued working at The Baker’s Oven and Tea Room and The Galena Cafe.

Ruth is survived by her four children, Jean Schmidt, Linda Schmidt, Loren Schmidt, and Karl (Jen) Schmidt and two grandchildren, Jakob and Olivia, a sister, Beverly (Ivan) Fransen and a sister-in-law, Rita Schumacher and many nieces and nephews.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three brothers, Dale, Wayne, and Carlyle Schumacher, and two sisters-in-law, Monica and Mae Schumacher.

The family would like to thank the Galena Assisted Living staff, the Nursing Home staff, Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Vandigo for their excellent care and compassion.  In lieu of flowers please donate to Hospice of Dubuque. Online condolences maybe left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

John A. Scharpf

John A. Scharpf 52, of Galena, IL passed away unexpectedly Thursday, May 20, 2021, at University of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa City, IA. A celebration of life will be held at 7 PM, Friday, May 28, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel Galena, where friends may gather after 5:30 PM until time of the service. Burial will be held at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.

He was born October 27, 1968, in Galena, the son of Robert and Viola (Hilby) Scharpf. He graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1986. He earned an associate degree in CAD drafting from NICC, Peosta, IA. He worked in R & D – CAD Technical Support for Camcar in Rockford, IL until 2009, and was currently employed at Mi-T-M, in Peosta as a fabrication programmer. John also farmed with his brother Dan. He enjoyed turkey and deer hunting, riding his motorcycles and four wheelers. He loved his International Harvester tractors and was very handy at fixing things.

He is survived by his three siblings; Donna Berlage and Dan Scharpf both of Galena, Deb (Bob) Manders of Cedar Rapids, IA one nephew; Andy Berlage and three nieces; Katharine, Sarah, and Emily Manders, special friend, Chris Nordhoff, and his aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother-in-law, Ron Berlage.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Galena EMS, Midwest Medical Center Emergency Room, and the staff at University of Iowa Hospital for their care and compassion during this difficult time.  Online condolences maybe left for the family atwww.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Sandra L. Hurdiss

Sandra L. “Sandy” Hurdiss, age 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on May 15, 2021, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Sandy’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sandy’s family.

Sandy was born on June 28, 1943, in Lockport, New York, a daughter to Dwight and Marguerite (Simmons) Wirth.  She quickly learned how to embrace the world around her and make the most out of every day.  Sandy along with her late ex-husband, Mike Hurdiss, raised their family in Niagara County, New York.  A cub scout leader, she enjoyed doing her crafts.  She was known for her very scary Halloween parties with the kids, always fun! Sandy worked as a full-time manager at Wilson Farms, then moving to Texas, she continued her career in retail management with 7-Eleven, while she worked towards a bachelor’s degree at Tarrant County Community College.  She spent many wonderful years with her family in Texas, before making her final move to Iowa to be near to family once again.  Sandy found joy in her heart whenever her great-grandkids were by her side, and if her cat “Lola”, and canine companion, “Bindy” could join in the fellowship, Sandy was truly present in a little slice of heaven right here on earth. If the day could be brought to a close with some relaxing TV and sweet chocolates in her hand, she would always consider those days to be an absolute success.  It has been beyond difficult to watch our beloved matriarch slowly fade from our daily lives, but we know that she is now residing in perfect peace with her Lord and Savior.  May the memories and legacy she leaves behind help to fill the void which now exist, and may our eventual reunion be even more joyful than we could ever imagine.  Thank you, Sandy, for continually teaching us how to place others before ourselves, and for sharing your life, love, and light so generously that the abundance of beautiful memories you leave behind cannot help but to be a source of strength and hope in the days ahead.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sandy include,

her children,
Lisa Hurdiss, Canyon Country, California,
Desiree (Chris) Bibb, Dubuque, Iowa,
Michael (Tracey) Hurdiss, Arlington, Texas,
and Christopher (Julie) Hurdiss, Lockport, New York;

her grandchildren,
Levi (Kaitlin) Luett-Burzlaff Maquoketa, Iowa,
Lacee Burzlaff, Maquoketa, Iowa,
and Sophie Hurdiss, Arlington, Texas;

her great-grandchildren,
Shaunde, Shauntrell, and Semaj Timmons;

her sister,
Beverly (Edward) Wojtkowski, Gasport, New York;

and her special friend,
Denny Murphy, Newfane, New York;

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents, and Mike Hurdiss.

In memory of Sandy, memorials, cards, flowers, food, and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Sandy’s family at 1116 1/2 Rhomberg Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001.

Sandy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at St. Croix Hospice (especially Cathleen and Amanda) for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We’d also like to thank all of our family and friends, especially Paula Marszalek, Tara Grace, and Terri Bedford, for your genuine devotion, commitment, and unwavering support during these most difficult days.  May the Lord bless each and every one of you for your kindnesses.

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