Obituaries Archive

Jerome W. Vondran

Jerome “Jerry” William Vondran, 93, Galena, IL passed away Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community surrounded by his loving family. A private wake service for family and relatives will be Monday, January 3, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church, Galena, beginning at 10 AM until the time of Mass at 11 AM. Burial will be in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, is assisting the family.

He was born April 7, 1928, in Kieler, WI the son of Aloysius and Catherine (Dietzel) Vondran. Jerry was united in marriage to his wife of sixty-nine years Margaret Ann Pasker on November 8, 1949, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Colesburg and she preceded him in death on February 3, 2019. Jerry was a farmer for many years and worked at Kraft Foods, Galena before selling for MoorMan’s Feed. Jerry and Margaret retired from farming in 1989 when they moved to their Franklin Street home. There was never a better meal than one served at home. Jerry was a driver for Jo Daviess County Transit for eighteen years making sure patients arrived on time to their doctor’s appointments. Jerry enjoyed playing euchre and there was never a family gathering without a hand or two dealt out. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather and will be deeply missed by his family.

Jerry is survived by four children, Diane (Bob) Wachter, Denis (Susie) Vondran, both of Scales Mound, IL, Gary (Vicky) Vondran of Galena and Mary (Danny) Spillane of Shullsburg, WI; eleven grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild on the way, one sister, two sisters-in-law; and his many special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, three grandchildren, three sisters, one brother, and his brothers and sisters-in-law.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community, Hospice of Dubuque, and Dr. Vandigo for your care and compassion during this difficult time. Online condolences may be left at furlongfuneralchapel.com

Eldon D. Denlinger

Eldon D. “Dave” Denlinger, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, sadly completed his earthly journey suddenly on Dec. 29, 2021, at home.  To honor Dave’s life, a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2022, at 11 am, at Resurrection Catholic Church, 4300 Asbury Rd, with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.  Family and friends may visit from 9-11 am at the church.  Full military honors will be accorded by the Epworth American Legion, John White Post #650.  Burial will be in the Dunleith Cemetery in East Dubuque, IL, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dave’s family.

Dave was born on April 16, 1942, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Eldon R. and Lenore B. (Steffen) Denlinger.  Dave grew up in Epworth, surrounded by family and friends his entire life.  He knew that his love of having his foot on the gas pedal, while his hands rested firmly on the steering wheel and shifter were going to definitely play a role in his career path.  Dave eventually made his way as a truck driver and spent over 35 years in the driver’s seat with both Cardox and Wenzel Towing.  He proudly collected the miles underfoot while provided for his family at home and trekking down the open road ahead of him.  His love for trucking also found a welcome home in the life of his son, Tony, who carries on the family tradition to this very day.  After retirement, Dave found that spending his free-time making deliveries with his friends at Hy-Vee was a perfectly smooth transition where he could continue to socialize and yet get a little driving in.  When Dave wasn’t working, you could generally find him running around town with his beautiful bride, Judy.  They both thoroughly enjoyed traveling, visiting, and singing Karoke and “Jackson” with friends whenever possible.  Sundays were always set aside for breakfast with Tony and the grandkids, Addy and Austin, and any day where a little canine companionship with Daisy was involved, Dave was truly a happy, satisfied, and content gentleman.  It is impossible to comprehend the sudden and tragic loss of such a good and decent man from this world.  Dave was undeniably a man among men and a salt of the earth kind of guy.  We will miss his gentle, yet firm embrace on all that was good in this life and pray that he knows just how much we will dearly love and miss him until we all meet again.  Thank you, Dave, for always being the positive force and role model we all seek in our lives and may the Lord keep you safe and secure in His loving arms as we who are left behind seek both peace and healing in the difficult days ahead.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dave’s include,

his loving wife of 40 years,
Judith E. “Judy” Denlinger, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Anthony “Tony” (Ashley Winders) Denlinger, Dubuque, IA,
Don (Tom Barlow) Clark, Madison, AL,
Sherry (Matt) Means, Hordville, NE,
Vickie (Fred) Kammiller, Dyersville, IA,
and Roxane (Patrick) Demaio, Dubuque, IA;

his 14 grandchildren;

his 13 great-grandchildrem;

his great-great grandchild;

his siblings,
Von (Jean) Denlinger, Cascade, IA,
Vanita Bries, Epworth, IA,
Pam (Terry) Strub, Elbe, WA;

his brothers-in-law,
Lester (Sandy) Sarazin, Dubuque, IA,
Donald “Krunch” Kronlage, Epworth, IA,
and Frank Sarazin, Dubuque, IA;

along with countless extended family, friends, co-workers, and neighbors.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Lenore Denlinger; a great-grandson, Myles Ernzen; 2 brothers, Merle Denlinger and Duane Denlinger; his sister, Cathy Kronlage; his father and mother-in-law, Frank and Margaret Sarazin; 2 brothers-in-law, Jim Sarazin and Dave Sarazin; and a sister-in-law, Sharon Sarazin;

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted in Dave’s name, and the family request if those who are attending his service would please where a mask.

Dave’s family would like to thank all of the City of Dubuque First Responder’s, along with the nurses and staff in the Finley Hospital E.R. for all of their professional and compassionate care of Dave and his family.  Your kindness helped to make a very difficult time just a little more bearable and we thank you for that.

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

Illa Kay Adams

Illa Kay Adams, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 28, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

A funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 4th, 2022, at 1st Congregational United Church of Christ with Pastor Lillian Daniel officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:30 a.m. at the church until time of service. Burial will follow in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Illa was born on June 25, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Donald and Bendina (Felderman) Klett. Illa graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. She married Gary J. Adams on March 26, 1989, at 1st Congregational United Church of Christ. Gary preceded her in death on June 2, 2019.

For 29 years Illa worked as an office manager and agent for State Farm Insurance with Terry Ebaugh and Bob Brown; retiring in 2007.

She is survived by her daughter Christine Adams; grandchildren Aryelle (Cody) Decker and Brandon (Tyra Allen) Adams-Palmer. Three great grandchildren, Silas, Mayla, and Tilly Decker.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Garry and a son Jeffrey Sear.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Key West Fire & EMS or 1st Congregational United Church of Christ.

Ashley N. Moore

Ashley N. “Digger” Moore, 35, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, December 29, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa, with her mom, dad and sister by her side.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There is no visitation.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Ashley Nicole Moore was born on February 26, 1986 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Thomas E. III and Judie (Kennedy) Moore.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 2005 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.  She then worked for Imagine the Possibilities and part-time at Nissen-Caven Insurance and Real Estate in Maquoketa.

Ashley had a teasing, fun loving personality.  She loved music, movies, shopping with her mom, and getting her nails done.  She especially loved being with her family and friends.

Those left to honor her memory include her parents, Tom and Judie Moore of Maquoketa, IA; a sister, Lexi (Tyler) Donahue of Marion, IA; a nephew, Lincoln; maternal grandmother, Judith Kennedy of Baldwin, IA; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Thomas and Kay Moore, maternal grandfather Robert Kennedy Sr., and her uncle Robert Kennedy Jr.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Ashley N. Moore memorial fund has been established.

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

Lorraine M. Hirsch

Lorraine M. (Fransen) Hirsch, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at MercyOne Medical Center surrounded by her family.  She was 84 years young.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 2, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.  A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 3rd at the funeral home with her son-in-law Pastor Jack Redmond officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Lorraine was born on September 11, 1937, she was one of 9 children.  On December 31, 1954, she was united in marriage to John “Jack” Hirsch in Dubuque, Iowa where they raised 6 beautiful children. Not mentioning any names (Steve) one was even called the golden boy.

Through the years, Mom and Dad owned and operated Lorraine’s Tap where most customers knew her as “Goofy”.  She also worked at the University of Dubuque and the Cinema Center.

Mom was a loving mother and grandmother and most thought of her as the life of the party.  Her smile was infectious.  Her kids and grandkids were her life, along with her dog, Benji.  She enjoyed spending time on the river and Friday nights at the Diamond Jo.

Mom will be deeply missed by her 6 children: Linda (Craig) Bowman, John (Joyce) Hirsch, Peggy (Jack) Redmond, Steve (Janet) Hirsch, Tina (Greg) LaRue, and David (Gina) Hirsch; 19 grandchildren, 51 great grandchildren, 1 great great grandchild, and of course her baby Benji.

She is also survived by her sister Betty Milroy, 3 sisters-in-law, 4 brothers-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.

As Mom joins Dad in eternal life, she will be greeted by her parents, siblings: Bill, Tom, Dick and Jerry, Mary, Jean, and Shirley; 3 grandchildren, and many sisters and brothers-in-law.

The family would like to thank Dr. Runde, Dr. Ramabadran, Dr. Janes, and the nursing staff at Mercy One Medical center for their kindness, compassion, care during this difficult time.

Richard Davison

Richard “Dick” Davison died suddenly on the morning of December 28, 2021.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday, January 3, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Monday, January 3, at Church of the Resurrection. Mass will be web-cast on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory website, in the Photos & Videos tab, at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com. The family kindly requests that all in-person attendees wear masks.

Dick was born in Burlington, Iowa, on February 20, 1936, to Roy and Eunice Davison. He spent most of his youth in the countryside near New London, and then attended the University of Iowa, where he studied physical therapy and stood out on the diving and gymnastics teams. After an experiment with West Coast living, he returned to Iowa to help his sister and ended up meeting his best friend and the love of his life, Joni Klauer. The couple married on December 28, 1963, and raised their family in Dubuque, where Dick had a successful career as a physical therapist. He started the physical therapy program at Mercy Hospital and his own private practice, Dubuque Physical Therapy, and worked as well at Finley Hospital and Manor Care. He particularly enjoyed being able to help disabled children. Next to his family, Dick loved adventure. He enjoyed road trips, rock climbing, skiing, hiking, camping, playing racquetball, stargazing, finding new shortcuts, doing handstands, flying his plane, drinking a good cup of coffee, and cheering on the Hawkeyes. He cherished his children, in whom he took quiet pride, and delighted in his grandchildren, for whom he always had patience and time. He was a kind and caring person who was quick to help anyone.

He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Joni, his two children, Chris (Kristine) of Dubuque and Heather (John) of Fairfield, his four grandchildren, Connor and Claire Davison, and Charlotte and Eleanor McKerley, his three siblings, Rita Ralston, Ruth Whalen, Robert (Shirley) Davison, his brothers-in-law, Don (Debi) and Jack Klauer, and his many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his son Benjamin “Benji” Davison, his parents, and his mother- and father-in-law, C.J. and Ruth Klauer.

The family would like to thank the first responders and emergency department staff who attended to Dick in his final hours. Memorials may be sent to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

Jean A. Boots

Jean A. Boots, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away unexpectedly at Manor Care on Tuesday, December 28.

Family and friends may gather from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 4th, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a memorial service will be held at 6:00 p.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.

Jean was born August 6, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa to Kenneth Nicks and Mary (Pottebaum) Nicks. She attended Dubuque Senior High School, graduating as part of the Class of 1964.

On August 5, 1977, Jean married Tommy L. Boots at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.

Throughout her life Jean worked as a cook and baker at Lady of Lourdes, the Ryan House, Stonehill Care Center and Ecumenical Towers.

Jean will be remembered as a wife, a mother, an aunt and a good friend to all who knew her. She enjoyed family trips, gardening, reading and crafting. She had a good sense of humor and always enjoyed visiting with those she cared about. She loved animals, especially her cat.

She is survived by her daughter, Angela Boots of Dubuque, one aunt, many cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by the love of her life, Tommy L. Boots, on April 4, 2014, her parents Kenneth Nicks and Mary (Pottebaum) Nicks and sister, Diane Nicks, all of Dubuque.

Jean’s family would like to thank the staff of Manor Care in Dubuque for their thoughtful care over the last few years.

Marilyn A. VanOstrand

Marilyn Ann VanOstrand, 89 of East Dubuque, IL passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at home surrounded by her family following complications from a stroke.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 a.m. on Monday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas and Fr. Rick Halvorson concelebrating.  Burial will be at St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi, WI. The funeral will be live-streamed on the Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page.

Visitation will be from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday. There will also be an additional visitation from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday at the church.

Marilyn was born on May 14, 1932 daughter of Joseph (Delenna Leeser) Doser of Potosi, WI. She married Joseph “Wade” VanOstrand on May 29, 1954 at St. Thomas Church, Potosi, WI.  She was a homemaker and formerly worked at General Dry Battery Factory and for Mt. Vernon Water & Sewer Dept. nearly 30 years, Marilyn was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and it’s Altar & Rosary Society, East Dubuque.  She received an Achievement Award for Grandmother of the year from the East Dubuque Public School for going out of her way to show love and concern for her grandchildren.  Marilyn was so generous and thoughtful. You never left her home without a gift or homemade treat of some kind.

Surviving are her children, Terry of Minot, ND, David (Deb), Todd (Laurie), Kirk (Michele) all of East Dubuque, Brian (Lisa), Jody (Chad) of Rochester, MN, Joe (Angie) of Metamora, OH, and Jon (Darcy Kiebler) Dubuque, IA; 18 Grand Children, 15 Great Grand Children; 1 sister Joan (Bob) Coward of Rockford, IL, 1 brother Francis Doser of Potosi, WI, 1 stepsister Pat Johnson of Madison, WI;  Numerous nieces & nephews.  She was preceeded in death by her husband Joseph “Wade” VanOstrand, a son Alan VanOstrand, grandson Nick VanOstrand, step grandson Jason Wanke, her brother Dave Doser, sister-in-law, Linda Doser, 2 infant brothers and her special friend later in life, Ralph Tigges.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque, IA.

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

James J. Cloos

James J. Cloos, 94, of Springbrook, passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.

Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, January 3, 2022 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until the time of Mass, also Monday, January 3, 2022 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in the church cemetery.

James was born October 14, 1927, in Dubuque, the son of Peter and Viola (Schlegel) Cloos. He married Kathleen E. Gonner on October 14, 1947, and she passed on December 24, 2010. James served his county in the US Merchant Marines during WWII. James co-owned and operated Cloos & Sons’ in Springbrook along with his father Pete Cloos and brother-in-law James Pitts. He served as the Mayor of Springbrook and was Fire Chief for many years for the Springbrook Volunteer Fire Department. James was a longtime member of Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and Bellevue American Legion Post #273. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, reading books as well as his many trips with Kathleen to Las Vegas.

Survivors include his children, Tom (Lois) Cloos, Steven (Colleen) Cloos, Mark (Marlene) Cloos, Patrick (Shirley) Cloos, Fr. Robert Cloos, Barbara (Kenny) Lundin, and Richard Cloos; 19 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren; sisters in-law Betty Gonner, Karen Gonner, and Judy Koelker.

James was preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a daughter, Margaret (Cloos) Mueller; a sister and brother-in-law Mary Margaret and James Pitts; brothers and sisters in-law, Norma and Tom Crouch, Milton Gonner, Lloyd Gonner, Glenna and Mark Kueter, Merlin and Marcellene Gonner and David Gonner.

A memorial fund has been established in James’s memory.

A Special Thank You to Mill Valley Care Center for the years of Kindness, Care and Comfort they showed to James.

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

Raymond L. Kirpes

Raymond L. Kirpes, 86, of Dubuque died peacefully Friday, December 17, 2021, at Luther Manor with family by his bedside.

Visitation will be Friday, January 7, 2022, from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held Saturday, January 8, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory with interment in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, Iowa. Military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. The family request that mask be worn when attending the visitation and service

Ray was born August 28, 1935, to Lorentz and Catherine (Pfohl) Kirpes in Key West, Iowa. In 1949 Ray went to live with his uncle and aunt, Louis A. and Genevieve (Dunbar) Pfohl in Dubuque upon the death of his parents. He graduated from Loras Academy in 3-1/2 years, finishing in the top 10% of his class while also participating in ROTC. He graduated from Loras College in 1957.

While in high school Ray started working at Pfohl’s Inc. in 1949, which was founded, owned, and operated by his uncle, Louis A. Pfohl. Little did Ray know, but that apprenticeship started him on his lifetime career of interior window decorating. Ray became known around town as “Mr. Pfohl.” He eventually owned Pfohl’s Inc., retiring 60 years later. Pfohl’s Blinds, Draperies & Shades continues today through Ray’s youngest son, John (Liz) Kirpes.

Ray met the love of his life Norma Jean Kern at Dubuque Savings and Loan where she worked. They were united in marriage May 9, 1959 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, IL, and made their home in Dubuque. As a young man, Ray was in the Army Reserves, enjoyed hunting squirrels, and raising his family. He was a member of the Church of the Nativity, where he was a Cub Scout Committee member. He also was a member of the Nativity parish guild and co-chaired two parish festivals. When bingo started at Nativity, Ray was one of the original bingo callers, doing this for over 15 years every Monday night. He enjoyed playing card games, particularly euchre, with family and teaching the next generation. Ray always believed that education was key to anyone’s future. He encouraged his children and grandchildren to go to college. Upon retiring Ray could often be found at Sunshine having coffee with friends in the mornings.

Ray is survived by his wife, Norma Jean Kirpes, and seven children: Martha (John) of Ann Arbor, MI; Steven (Irma) of Edinburg, TX; Paul (Lori) of West Des Moines, IA; Roger (Christine) of Cedar Rapids, IA; Anne (Jack) of Maple Grove, MN; James (Theresa) of Cedar Rapids, IA; and John (Liz) of Dubuque; 17 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by three sisters, Loretta Dawkins of Dubuque; Jeanette Drenckhahn of Weaver, MN; and Patricia Kirpes Zwack of Dubuque; and one brother, Robert Kirpes of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Mary Hilby, Irene Barth, and Helen Bell Naber, and two brothers, Joseph Kirpes and Charles Kirpes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Holy Family Catholic Schools, the Church of the Nativity, Sisters of St. Francis (Dubuque), Hospice of Dubuque, and Luther Manor.

Ray’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the staffs of Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque.

Ione M. Konrardy

Ione M. Konrardy, age 92, passed into God’s hands at 8:00 a.m., on Wednesday, December 22, 2021, at her home in Dubuque, Iowa. Ione lived a life of selfless devotion anchored in faith. She will be missed and remembered by all who knew and loved her. Like her mother before her, Ione did not believe in “good bye” but preferred “see you later,” for she knew that loved ones never truly leave us.  Please join the family in celebrating Ione’s life and giving her a “see you later.”  Visitation is from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Sunday, January 2, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, January 3, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity, with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A woman of courage and faith, Ione bravely battled a number of long-term health conditions, yet she never complained. Instead, she pushed the limits, just a little bit, with this sparkle in her eye, knowing, she might be doing a bit more than others said she should. She was a determined woman; determined to remain independent and to be with her loved ones engaging life for as long as possible. It is with great sadness that her family lets her go.

Born in Cascade, Iowa, on October 5, 1929, Ione was the eldest child of Clarence and Rita (Koppes) Sandt. She grew up in Cascade, becoming prom queen and graduating valedictorian in 1947, from St. Martin’s High School. It was while working at the Dubuque Packing Company and riding the bus back and forth from Cascade that Ione met and grew to know Cyril Konrardy, he too was employed at the packing company. Ione and Cy married on June 25, 1949, and enjoyed 60 years of a loving marriage and the birth of nine children and fourteen grandchildren before Cy’s death in 2009.

Ione led a life dedicated to the love, care, and happiness of her family. She had a quiet yet immense pride in all her children. She relished sharing in the lives of her grandchildren, nothing made her light up more than a story, or the mere sight of one of her grandchildren. More joy was to come to her though in her later years with the addition of great grandchildren and their naming her “Grandma Great!”  Ione’s love of children did not stop with her own. With her family grown, she would continue to share her gentle, fun-loving spirit by opening her home to the care of other young children, many who would return as adults to visit her.

As a long-time member of TOPS Club, Ione deeply appreciated not only the support she found within the group but also the friendship and fun. Walking with TOPS friends became one of her favorite pastimes and long remembered by her. Ione also enjoyed recalling the story of her rose garden. For you see, Cy did promise her a rose garden, when he retired, and had the time to care for what would become a glorious tribute to her favorite flower and his promise fulfilled. Ione often clipped the most beautiful blooms for the house. Oh, but roses were not the only thing she liked to fill her house with. Baking continued in her kitchen up to her final days, for she wanted to provide Christmas treats. She kept alive recipes of her mother Rita and sister Kate, every Thanksgiving making still, her son Craig’s favorite recipe of pumpkin dessert. What were a few more of her favorite things? Dogs, not cats, toaster strudel, bunnies playing in her back yard, funny birthday cards, the tasty soup from Mario’s, colorful fall trees, and ice cream!

Ione’s children are Carole (Ron) Eilers, Missouri; Joyce Konrardy, Kansas; Sandra Butt, Iowa; Nancy Konrardy, Nebraska; Sharon (Randy) Balk, Tina (Steve) Schute, Vicki (Doug) Ben, and David (Kristy) Konrardy all from Iowa. Her grandchildren are Laura (Matt) Clark, Lisa Balk, Lynn (Chris) Rinehart, Aaron (Shelby) DeRosier, Kara (Spencer) Phillips, Anna Nicholson, Alex Schute, Casey (Justin) Heim, Gincie (Connor) Bell, Libby (Clint Ivy) Butt, Logan Ben, Jacob and Kyle Konrardy, and Hannah Penoyer Konrardy. Great grandchildren are Olivia and Rocky Clark and Graham Phillips.

She was preceded in death by her parents Clarence and Rita Sandt; her loving husband, Cyril Konrardy and son, Craig Konrardy; her siblings, John Joseph, Carole, and Richard Sandt, and Kathleen Scheckel, and son in-law Jim Butt.

The family wants to thank Ione’s wonderful medical team at Grand River Medical, Hospice of St. Croix for their tender care, awesome neighbor Russ Vandermeulen, and nephew Mike Scheckel and his amazing family.

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

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

Sandra J. Collister

Sandra J. Collister, 80, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 26, 2021, at home, surrounded by family.

A celebration of Sandra’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, January 3, 2022, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. on Monday at the funeral home.  Cremation will follow the service and burial will be at the Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa, at a later date.

Sandra Joy Collister was born on August 23, 1941 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Cecil Wesley and Inez Dolly (Bowman) Evans.  She was a 1959 graduate of Maquoketa High School, and later that same  year married Harold Edward Collister on July 4, 1959 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Louise, Lori and Charles.

Sandra had worked at Mel’s Super Valu and Dolch’s Bakery, and volunteered at the Maquoketa Youth Center School until she was hired as a Teacher’s Associate at Cardinal Elementary School in Maquoketa for 21 years.

Sandra had lived in Maquoketa her entire life.  She enjoyed drawing, wood crafting with Harold, and being artistic and creative.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Lori Anne Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA, Louise Ellen (Bob) Orlosky of Maquoketa, IA, and Charles “Chuck” (Jennifer) Collister of Maquoketa, IA; 9 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; a sister, Kay Carole (Lyle) Schossow of AZ; and very special friends, Lester and Emmalou Langrehr of Clinton, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Harold on February 16, 2016, 3 great-grandchildren, brothers Alan, Ronnie and Bob, and sisters Verda, Pat, Nedra and Lois.

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

James D. Shaffer

James D. “Jim” Shaffer, age 77, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, December 27, 2021. To celebrate his life, a private memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

He was born on March 2, 1944, in Dubuque, son of William and Edna (Maas) Shaffer. He attended school at St. Joseph’s Grade School, Washington Middle School, and Dubuque Senior High School. He was united in marriage to Rosalie Peterson on June 26, 1965, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. They have been blessed with 56 years of marriage and 4 wonderful children. He worked as a warehouseman for Hodge Transit Warehouse and retired after 30 years of service. He enjoyed bowling, golf, fishing, playing cards, tending to his garden and tinkering on projects in the garage. After retiring, he was able to enjoy and spend time with his family – his main priority. He had a unique way of making you feel like you were the only person in the room. He was a great listener; his smile was contagious and brought happiness to everyone around him. He left a lasting impression on those that knew him. He was an extremely generous, kindhearted man who selflessly gave his time to others. He was an exemplary role model, teaching others how to show unconditional love, just like our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Those treasuring memories of him, and waiting to walk beside him again, include

his beloved wife,
Rosalie Shaffer, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Robert Shaffer, Dubuque, IA,
Christy (Gary) Belisle, Madison, WI,
and Amy (Mike) Becker, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Amber (Darrell), Jake, Jesse, Dennis, Evan, Claire, Alaina, Grace, Alexander and Emily;

his great-grandchildren,
Saria, Kairei, Mayson and Oakley;

a brother,
Harold (Sue) Shaffer, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Lynn (Vince) Jellison; his sisters, Alice Voels, Rita Pfab, Lorraine Dimitroff, Shirley Mihalakis and Mary Breitbach; and his brothers, Irvin, Donald, John “Jack”, Leonard, Richard “Dick”, William “Billy” and Clarence Shaffer.

His family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at MercyOne for all their kind, attentive, and professional care.

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

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

Helen J. Harris

Helen J. Harris of Galena, IL passed away on the eve of her 97th Christmas at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community. A private family service will be held, and burial will follow in St. Michael Catholic Cemetery, Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born January 10, 1924, in Galena the daughter of John G. and May (Kirchner) Gill. Helen graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1943. She was united in marriage to William B. Harris, and he preceded her in death on January 29, 1981. Helen was a homemaker raising her eight children. She was employed as a CNA at the Galena Stauss Nursing Home. Helen enjoyed gardening, caring for her flowers, baking cookies, and going for a walk. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church and the Galena Historical Society.

She is survived by three daughters, Mary Gill Smith, Charlene Wurster, and Ann (Kevin) Podnar; two sons, William (Jane Ann) Harris and Michael (Janet) Harris, a daughter-in-law, Janice Harris, 19 grandchildren, 45 great-grandchildren, and 27 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two sons, Rhett and Gary, a daughter, Bertha “Birdie” Straka, a great-grandson, Jordan Duerr, great-granddaughter, Lucy Smith, and two sons-in-law, Robert Smith, and Frank Straka.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be given to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Michael Catholic Church in memory of Helen. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Christina M. Kintzle

Christina Marie Kintzle, 59, of Dubuque, died Saturday, December 25, 2021, at her home in Dubuque, after a courageous battle with ALS.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Going Home Service for Christina will be 10:00 am Thursday, December 30, 2021, at Faith Temple United Pentecostal with Pastor Lynn Spicer officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Christina was born July 2, 1962, in Waterloo, IA, the daughter of James and Donna Jungers Zaug. At a young age Christina and her mother and her siblings moved back to Dubuque’s north end and made their home on Rhomberg Ave. She had two boys during a brief teenage marriage, and then while raising her sons as a single mother, she attended UNI in Cedar Falls and graduated from Hawkeye Tech as a certified dental hygienist. She worked as a certified dental hygienist at Rockdale Dental Center. She was forced to retire in 2001 due to Epilepsy.

On May 24, 1996, she married Mark Kintzle in Dubuque. She enjoyed walking her dog, painting, golfing with her husband, and cherished time with her grandchildren.

She was a member of Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church in Dubuque.

Survivors include her husband, Mark Kintzle of Dubuque; two sons, Jeremy (Kelly) Foht of Dubuque, and Lee Foht of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Dustin, Derek, and Brittany Foht; one sister, Cathy (Steve) Korman of Dubuque; two brothers, Dan (Janelle) Zaug of Clive, IA, and Ken Zaug of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews; mother-in-law, Irma Kintzle of Dubuque, brothers-in-law, Mike (Doris) Kintzle, Marvin (Floyd Kortenhof) Kintzle; sister-in-law, Mary Geisler; and Christina’s faithful fury companion, Cooper.

She is preceded in death by her parents, father-in-law, Elmer Kintzle.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque especially, Melissa, Nichole, and Lindsey and Dr. Kristin Nelson.

Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for You Jesus
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in Your presence
Or to my knees, will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine
-MercyMe