Obituaries Archive

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

Leonard Leib Jr.

Leonard “Lenny” Leib, Jr, 71, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on December 15, 2021 at Unity Point Medical Center following complications with COVID pneumonia.

Lenny was born on November 16, 1950, the son of Leonard Leib, Sr. and Freda (Ward). Leib He attended Dubuque Senior High, where he lettered in football and excelled at wrestling as the state runner up in the heavyweight division in 1969. Shortly following his graduation in 1969, Lenny was employed by John Deere Dubuque Works, holding various positions until his retirement in 2004. Lenny married Sally Ackerman on October 28, 1972.

Lenny was passionate about outdoor activities. He liked to camp and could be found in his tree stand during bow hunting season (where he got many bucks to brag about in the off seasons). Lenny was always most comfortable on one of his many touring motorcycles, and would often take trips to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. He loved to spend time with his family and his six grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Freda and Leonard, Sr.

Lenny is survived by his wife Sally, his children Jesse, Maija (Chuck) Thomas, and Ehren (Heather Hansen), his four siblings, Brenda McCristy Boetel, Patti Leib, Jeanie (Glenn) Naab, and Brian (Robin) Leib, as well as his grandchildren.

The Leib family would like to acknowledge Lenny’s longtime friends Ray, Arnie, and Barry. Thank you for always being there for Lenny.

 The Leib family also would like to extend their gratitude to the ICU staff at Unity Point Finley Hospital. Thank you for the wonderful care you provided and your tireless efforts to combat COVID-19.

A private family celebration of life in honor of Lenny will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Lenny was beloved by his family and will be missed.

John P. Kemps Jr.

John P. “Jack” Kemps Jr., 72, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, December 26, 2021, at ManorCare.

Private family services will be held at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.   A public celebration of life will be held at Happy’s Place from 5:30 until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 30th.

John was born on March 3, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa to John Paul Kemps Sr. and Mary Marcella “Sally” Donlan. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1967. John later went on to acquire a plumber’s apprenticeship.

John married Chris Johnson on January 18, 1969, at St. Joseph the Worker Church. They later divorced but remained close friends.

John retired from John Deere after 30 plus years of service. He was also a member of the Naval Reserve.

John is survived by his son, Nick; Daughter Lainey (George) Gamvroulas, ex-wife, Chris Johnson; Grandchildren, Austin Kemps, Savannah Robinson, Christopher Gamvroulas, Great Grandchildren, Declan and Kaysun Kemps.

He is preceded by his parents and his grandson, Michael.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque.

Korey J. Hutzell

Korey James Hutzell, age 34, Dubuque, Iowa died December 24, 2021, in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 30th, 2021, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m.  The family request mask be worn if attending the visitation and service.

Korey was born in Dubuque, Iowa on March 26, 1987; he is the son of Kelly and Laura (Sauer) Hutzell. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 2005 and also attended NICC.

He worked as an Inside Sales Manager at Superior Welding Supply and was previously employed by Stetson Building Products and Fastenal.

Korey was a gentle soul who was loved by all who knew him. Korey was an avid collector of many things. He was also very artistic with his glass blowing skills. He loved plants and gardening at his house. His joy was his niece, Lucy Ast, as well as his dog, Henry.

He is survived by his parents Kelly Hutzell and Laura (Sauer) Hutzell; his sister Erin (Joe) Ast and his niece Lucy Ast. His paternal grandparents James and Jean Hutzell; aunts and uncles: Michelle (Sid) Harris, Kris (Andy) Redlinger, Scott Sauer, Linda (Tim) Lange, Julie (Bob) Tauke and Amy (Bill) Schwartz. Cousins: Koral (Troy) Ortiz, Bailey (Alexis) Redlinger, Mason Redlinger, Matthew Sauer, Cody Sauer, Madison Sauer, Ben Roethig, Haley Lange, Nick (Stacy) Tauke, Justin Tauke, Michael Dodsworth and Jenna Dodsworth along with his birth mother and her children.

He was preceded in death by: Maternal grandparents, Donald and Verna Sauer and his dogs Gabe and Oliver.

In lieu of flowers, a Korey Hutzell memorial fund will be established.

Daniel J. Vandermillen

Daniel James Vandermillen, 55, of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

A visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm Thursday, December 30, 2021 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

An additional visitation will be from 9:30 am – 10:30 am Friday, December 31, 2021 at Church of the Nativity. The Mass of Christian Burial for Daniel will be 10:30 am Friday, December 31, 2021, at Church of the Nativity with Father Andy Upah as the Celebrant and Deacon Mike Ellis as the Homilist.

Daniel was born July 13, 1966, in Dubuque, the son of James and Karen (Groff) Vandermillen. On October 22, 1994, he married Tammy Kramer in Church of the Nativity.

Daniel graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1984.

He was a Terminal Technician for BP.

Daniel enjoyed playing pool, golfing, and watching Iowa Hawkeye athletics, especially wrestling. He was your stand-up family guy, supporting his son’s athletics in tennis and wrestling and instilling the mentality of positive reinforcement and “Never Giving Up!” Daniel’s motto would always be, “You don’t stop until you fight to the end.” He was the organizer of the family and kept everything moving smoothly. He carried the title of teacher, mentor and most importantly husband and father. Daniel’s legacy will be proudly carried on by his son, Charles Daniel.

Survivors include his wife, Tammy of Dubuque; his son, Charles Daniel of Dubuque; his father, James Vandermillen of Dubuque; his mother, Karen Vandermillen of Dubuque; two sisters, Dena (Tom) Trannel of Onalaska, WI and Diana (Doug) Brayton of Coralville; his parents-in-law, Kenneth and Jean Kramer of Newport Richey, FL and his brother-in-law, Tim (Christina) Kramer of Long Island, NY.

He is preceded in death by his god-child, Jacob Trannel.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

Dwain M. Michels

Dwain M. “Geeker” Michels, 72, of Preston, passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics.  Funeral Services will be 2:00 pm, Friday, December 31, 2021 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 10:00 am until service time also on Friday, December 31, 2021 at the funeral home.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Dwain was born December 19, 1949, the son of Orville and Florence (Deppe) Michels.  He worked at Collis in Clinton, helped farm, and retired in 2020 from B&G Auction House in Preston.  Dwain loved helping on the Ringen family farm and tending to the calves.  He was very organized, had no fear when driving fast in his cars, and always enjoyed a Dr. Pepper, cheeseburgers and popcorn.  Dwain shared a special bond with his favorite sister, Tammy, spending every Sunday together.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his siblings, Carol Keeney, Dale (Margie) Michels, Connie Taylor, Cheri Kaczinski, Danny Michels, Cora (Chester) Sutton, Carma (Jim) Hovey, Dean Michels, Carla (Ben) Caes, John (Denna) Michels, and Tammy Cline; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Dwain was preceded in death by his parents; brothers in-law, William Cline, Milo Keeney, and Bill Taylor; and an infant, baby girl.

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

Memorial and Condolences may be mail to Hachmann-Funeral 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Dwain Michels Family.

Online condolences may be expressed to family atwww.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Darlene J. Bartels

Darlene J. Bartels, formerly of Maquoketa, passed away December 24, 2021 at the Denver Sunset Home, in Denver, Iowa.

Funeral services celebrating her life will be held on December 29, 2021 at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa with burial at the Mount Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. prior to the funeral service at the Church.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is in charge of arrangements.

Darlene J. Bartels was born April 3, 1934 in Iowa City, the daughter of Henry and Lucy (Flagel) Bartels. She graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1953. She resided with her parents and was a devoted caregiver during their lifetimes.

Darlene was always grateful for her brother Galen’s help and advice, They started school together in first grade, however, togetherness was short lived. Darlene cried if Galen didn’t do well in class so the teacher separated them which broke Darlene’s heart. Galen won out in the end because Darlene was able to hold his hand while walking home from school.

Darlene always worked outside her home starting with babysitting at an early age, then working as a receptionist/dental assistant for Drs. Dalchow and Richael for 33 years and 10 years as a bus dispatcher/route assistant for the Jackson County Regional Transit Authority. She volunteered several years at Maquoketa Community Services and the Jackson County Senior Citizens Center. Darlene was a lifelong and dedicated member of the First Lutheran Church, first as a Sunday school teacher and later serving on the altar guild for many years.

Darlene had an active circle of friends and enjoyed eating out, shopping, and occasional trips to the casino.

In 2016 Darlene suffered a severe stroke. After hospitalization she moved to an apartment in Denver under the care of her nephew Brian (Kathy) Bartels. Her thoughtfulness and affection for family members was genuine and she was always happy to go shopping, eat out, and enjoyed outings for pizza and ice cream.

She later moved to the Denver Sunset Home where she was close to family members. Birthday and holiday celebrations were important to her and she enjoyed spending time with all of them on family occasions.

Those left to cherish her memories are her brother Galen (Donna) Bartels, nephew Brian (Kathy) Bartels, niece Linda (Dietrich) Heyde of Elk Rapids, MI., great nephews, Derrick Bartels, Andrew (Jessica) Bartels, Logan Heyde, great nieces, Lauren Heyde and Katelyn Bartels, great-great nieces, Harper Bartels and Nova Bartels and great-great nephew, Hudson Bartels. Darlene’s family especially want to thank Brian and Kathy Bartels for the assistance, compassion and love shown to Darlene while under their care.

Memorials may be given to the First Lutheran Church or to a charity of donor’s choice.

Online condolences maybe left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Antoine Dion Rae Houston

Antoine Dion Rae “Tony” Houston, age 17, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 12, 2021.  To celebrate Tony’s life private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Tony was born on January 5, 2004, in Minneapolis, MN, son of Anton Deon and Laneshia (Scott) Houston.

Tony was attending school at Dubuque Senior High School, and would have graduated in the spring.  He was very smart and his grandmother loves to tell the story of how at age 2, Tony was already able to put together a 500 piece puzzle.  This talent led to his family status as the “genius” of the group.  He was a very active person who was into boxing, wrestling, weight lifting and was playing football at Senior.  Tony also held jobs with Taco Johns, KFC and Miracle Car Wash.  He like to make others happy and always had a big goofy smile  on his face.  We are truly heartbroken at the loss of Tony in our daily lives.  We will miss you and love you more than words can convey.

Those left to cherish Tony’s memory include

his parents,
Anton Houston and Laneshia Scott;

his siblings,
Amir Thomas, Anton Houston, Azaria Houston, Alizia Houston, Avonte Houston, Ayandre Houston and Asiya Houston;

his grandmother who raised him,
Carolyn Houston;

and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

Tony was preceded in death by his grandfather, Steve Price; and an uncle, Leroy Miller.

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

Delores C. Eggers

Delores C. (Hingtgen) Eggers, 98, of Andrew, passed away on Thursday, December 23, 2021 at Mill Valley Care Center.  Funeral Mass will be 1:30 pm, Thursday, December 30^, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, prior to Mass on Thursday at the funeral home.  Burial will be in St. John Catholic Cemetery in Andrew.

Delores was born June 11, 1923, the daughter of Nicholas and Catherine (Heiar) Hingtgen.  She married Richard D. Eggers on May 27, 1952, he passed on July 19, 2017.  Delores farmed with her husband and son, Dick starting in 1952 until her husband’s passing in 2017.  She was a true farm wife, working all day and caring for her family.  Delores enjoyed playing cards, bowling, going out for dinner, and spending time with her family.  She was an incredible mother and wife and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. She was faithful and committed to her faith and church family.

Survivors include her children, Deborah (Karl) Malouff, Randy (Lori) Eggers, Richard Dick Eggers, Jr., and Jackie (Doug) McClaflin; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a son in-law, Dennis Heiar.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a daughter, Mary Jo Heiar; 6 siblings.

A memorial fund has been established in Delores’ memory.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Coletta A. McDermott

Coletta A. McDermott, 105, of Dubuque, Iowa formerly of Epworth, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Coletta was held from 12 to 2 p.m., on Monday, December 27, 2021 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.

Mass of Christian burial for Coletta was held at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 27, 2021 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Scott Boone presiding. Eucharistic Ministers were Terry and Connie McDermott.  Lectors were Amy Connolly, Sabrina Smith and Leah Leto.  Placing of the pall was done by Patrick McDermott,, Bernard McDermott, Terry McDermott, Donna Smith, Sharon Reardon, Mary McDermott-Weydert, Bonnie Gotto, Debbie Forkenbrock and Rhonda Gotto.  Giftbearers were Debbie Forkenbrock and Rhonda Gotto. Burial was held in St. Patrick’s cemetery.

Casketbearers were Martin McDermott, Sheree Smith-Martincz, Tim Reardon, Zach Gotto, Brian McDermott, Michele Gansen, Christine Hornecker, Tara McDedrmott-Thomas and Hilary Muir.

Coletta along with her identical twin sister Clara were born on August 5, 1916 in Bellevue, Iowa on the family farm, daughter of John and Mary (Dempewolf) Hoffmann.  Coletta and Clara were very proud to be identical twin sisters and to have both lived to be over 100 years old.  She received her education in the Bellevue schools.   On May 9, 1939 she was united in marriage to Donald “Benny” McDermott at the Nativity Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on July 17, 1994.  The couple owned and operated Benny’s Tap in Epworth, Iowa.

Coletta was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great and great-great grandmother.  She had a way of spoiling all her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and making them feel special and was the glue that held the family together all these years.   She was a very selfless and giving person who would help anyone in need that crossed her path.  She was a great chef and gardener and used her skills and plentiful harvest to feed her family and people in need from the time of the depression up until she was 98 years young.

She had a great love for music and enjoyed playing the Piano and did so since she was a young girl.  As an adult she went on to enjoy Big Band music with her husband as they went to several ballrooms around the area and won awards from the Crystal Ballroom.

She was a devoted Catholic member of St. Patrick’s Parish and its Altar and Rosary Society in Epworth, Iowa.

She is survived by three sons, Patrick (Marva) McDermott of Keizer, OR, Bernard “Buzz” (Mary) McDermott of Dubuque, Terry (Connie) McDermott of Dubuque; six daughters, Donna (Patrick) Smith, Sharon (Dave) Reardon both of Dubuque, Mary (Gerry) McDermott-Weydert of Asbury, Bonnie (Neal) Gotto of New Vienna, Debby Forkenbrock of Epworth, and Rhonda (Tom) Gotto of Epworth; 19 grandchildren; 45 great grandchildren; and 4 great-great grandchildren.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; one son, James McDermott on Feb. 21, 1944; one daughter, Margaret “Peggy” (John) Gansen; son-in-law, Jerry Forkenbrock; great grandson, Nic Anastasia; brothers and sisters, Joe (Leola) Hoffmann, Alan (Jean) Hoffmann, Rosella (LeRoy) Feller, Luella (Melvin) Kilburg, and Clara “Dolly” (Sylvester) Zimmer.

The family would like to thank Dr. Moran, Dr. Viner, Staff at Riverbend Retirement Community, Nurses and Staff at Stonehill Care Center, and her special friend, Susie Kramer.

Vincent A. Dolphin

Vincent Anthony Dolphin, 85,  of Cascade, Iowa, left this earthly home and took off for heaven on Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Vince will be held from 2 to 5 p.m., Monday, December 27, 2021 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa.  Visitation will also be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade.

Mass of Christian burial for Vince will be held at 11 a.m. with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

Vincent was born June 13, 1936, in Cascade, Iowa, son of Harland and Mary B. “Mae” (Devine) Dolphin.  He was a graduate of St. Martin’s High School in Cascade, where he excelled in Basketball.  His attendance at Loras College was interrupted by his father’s death and he moved back home to help support his mother and sisters. He then drove truck many years for Dahlem Feed Co. Vince was united in marriage to Alyce Orehovec on December 13, 1980 at St. Mary’s Immaculate Conception Church in Valley Fall, KS.  They met through the Dominic Club, a midwestern Catholic singles group. Although he moved from his mother’s house he remained a faithful support to her through her old age and in her last years of disability cared for her at his home.

He was a devoted husband and father, with a most gentle, loving and kindly spirit. He was soft hearted, non judgemental and had a good sense of humor. One cousin said he never heard him utter a cuss word and if Vince didn’t get to heaven then heaven didn’t exist. I personally never saw him lose his temper. (I, his wife).

He loved adventure, travel, nature, and music; the Hawkeyes and the Braves (go Braves!).  One of his favorite pastimes was playing catch with Amy, his daughter in the back yard and attending her piano performances. After adjusting from life as a bachelor to marriage and fatherhood, he was always there for Amy.  His most ardent care was to love and serve God.

Vince worked as medications aide at Julien Care Facility (later DAC and Hillcrest) for over 20 years and was loved by many there.  He brought music and music appreciation to the residents and was appreciated for it. He ran for State Senate, something he always wanted to do.

He was a faithful lifelong member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa and actively involved in music ministry until the end. He was a singer with a beautiful, angelic voice. He sang every Thursday morning with the Sunshine Group at Shady Rest after retirement until Covid prevented outside activities there.  In fact, we played John Denver songs a couple of hours before his death in his hospital room and he sang along to numerous songs with as great enthusiasm as he could muster.

He is survived by his wife, Alyce Dolphin of Cascade, IA; one daughter Amy Dolphin of Indianapolis, IN; one sister, Bernadette “Bridgitte” Dunigan of Dubuque, IA; sister-in-law, Mary Jo Kearns of Valley Falls, KS; brother-in-law, Gary Orehovec of Portland, OR. and beloved nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one sister; Jane Evers of Dyersville, IA; and three brothers-in-law, Gary Evers, Jim Dunigan, Terry Kearns. and nephew Scott Evers.

We express our gratitude and love to all friends and family for their heartfelt condolences, and to all Doctors, Nurses and staff at Unity Health and Finley who cared for Vince.  We do truly appreciate your dedication, hard work, tolerance, expertise and care.  Special thanks to Cascade Ambulance crew, Fr. Mark Osterhaus, and chaplain, Claudia.  After a little research, I found and  read what Vince wrote in his mother’s end of life story it turns out she too had a similar issue in her last days.  He wrote   “..she didn’t die willingly either. She fought death right to the end.”  And so did Vince.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com