Obituaries Archive

Thomas E. Braem

Thomas E. “Tom” Braem, age 72, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, after a long, happy and fulfilling life. To celebrate Tom’s life, private family services were held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Tom was born on June 30, 1948, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Elvin and Agnes (Favre) Braem. Tom was preceded in death by both his parents, a brother, Curtis, a sister-in-law, Mary Lea (McCarthy), and a brother-in-law, Richard Gattenbein. He is survived by his much loved son, E.C. whom he lived with the last several years of his life, two sisters, Melody Gattenbein and Winifred (Richard) Viertel, several nieces and nephews and many lifelong dear friends. Tom went to Wahlert and Senior High Schools and after graduation attended Northern Iowa Community College in Mason City. On January 26, 1973, he married Sharon McElmeel and she survives him. Tom spent his working life as an upholsterer for 43 years at Flexsteel Industries retiring in 2013. All those who knew Tom understood his great love of the Mississippi River and riding on his jet ski affectionately known as “Tomissippi”. A favorite saying of his was “Just give me a beach and a beer.” He also enjoyed playing horseshoes and golf and was a Braves, Colts, Celtics and Hawkeye fan. Tom and his happy-go-lucky presence will be remembered and missed by all whose life he made an impact on as he traverses the universe beyond with a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eyes, though ours now hold tears. A life well lived is an inspiration to us all. Cheers a Bud Light to Tom!

In lieu of flowers please consider honoring Tom by paying it forward through random acts of kindness.

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

Mary H. Zito

Mary H. Zito, 92 of Galena, Illinois and formerly of St. Charles, Illinois entered eternal life on Wednesday April 14, 2021, at Prairie Ridge of Galena. Funeral service will be 4 PM Saturday, May 15, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. Family and friends may gather after 2 PM until time of service. Masks, social distancing, and capacity limits will be in effect. Burial will be at a later date. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Mary was born into life November 3, 1928, in Oak Park, Illinois the daughter of Edward C. and Mary (Collins) Arado. She was united in marriage to John Zito on August 16, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois and he preceded her in death. Mary worked many years for the Illinois Secretary of State in Chicago, Illinois. She enjoyed cooking and baking, playing cards, and babysitting for her grandchildren.

She is survived by her only child and beloved son, John Zito Jr., M.D., of Galena, her three grandchildren Valerie (Brian) Keets, Elliott (Michelle) and Julian and three great grandchildren Giada, Vivian and Marisa and a brother Louis.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter-in-law Debra A. Zito and brother Edward.

Online condolences may be shared at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Louis G. Bernhard

Louis Graver Bernhard, 92, of Mill Valley Care Center, Bellevue, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 4, 2021.

Visitation will be 9:00 am until 10:00 am Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Cathedral of St. Raphael in Dubuque. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Louis’s family. The Mass of Christian Burial for Louis will be 10:00 am Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Rev. Monsignor Thomas E. Toale as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. 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.

Louis was born on October 12, 1928, in Dubuque, son of Louis and Dorothy (Graver) Bernhard. He graduated from Senior High School in 1946. He immediately enlisted in the United States Army. He served in occupied Japan until receiving an honorable discharge in 1947 with the rank of Sergeant.

He married Agnes Murphy on May 2, 1953 at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. They spent their 68th anniversary together two days before his passing. Louis worked for over 20 years with the Illinois Central Railroad and another 20 years at the Dubuque Packing Company, retiring in 2002. He was a proud member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Trainmen and Meat Cutters Union.

Louie was an avid sports fan. He followed the Hawkeyes, Packers, and White Sox religiously.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Agnes; two children, Ann (John) Bernhard Hoff, of Bellevue, Iowa, and Mark (Mary) of Davenport, Iowa; five grandchildren, Elizabeth (Ryan) Waller, Peter (Alyssa) Hoff, Anthony (Kristen) Bernhard, Kathryn (Daniel) Meyer and Nicholas (Mallory) Bernhard, and nine great-grandchildren, Hayden and Emma Waller, Frances and Joseph Bernhard, Charlotte, Erin, John Meyer, Louis Bernhard and Olivia Hoff.

Louis was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother, Walter (Cotton) Bernhard.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Marquette Catholic Schools, Bellevue, Iowa and Assumption High School, Davenport, Iowa.

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

Muriel L. Reuss

Muriel L. Reuss, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, May 4, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, May 11, 2021 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place and burial will be at the First Presbyterian Cemetery, Bellevue, Iowa. It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Muriel Lois Nelson was born on April 11, 1942 in Des Moines, Iowa, to Rev. Laurence and Pearl (Schmidt) Nelson. She grew up in Bellevue and was a 1960 graduate of Bellevue High School. She attended Dubuque Beauty School and then Area Vocational Technical School in Peosta where she received her Clerical degree with honors. She had worked as a secretary for social services for four years and then as an employee and manager at Casey’s in Maquoketa and Monticello.

She was a member of the Eagles Club in Maquoketa where she had worked as a bartender, volunteered and served as the former vice present of the Ladies Auxliliary. She enjoyed playing Bingo, Jigsaw Puzzles, and watching golf, especially Tiger Woods.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Rebecca “Becky” Hoffman of Maquoketa, IA, and Paul (Mary) Reuss of IA; 8 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren; a brother, Paul Nelson of Richfield, MN; son-in-law, Keith Hoffman of Maquoketa, IA; and a sister-in-law, Jean Nelson of Greenville, NC.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother David Nelson, sister-in-law, Lynn Nelson, and a daughter, Rachel Hoffman on March 7, 2019.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Muriel L. Reuss memorial fund has been established.

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

Shirley W. Kirkpatrick

Shirley W. Kirkpatrick, 90, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 8:24 a.m. Monday, May 3, 2021, at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Funeral services will be 12:00 (Noon) Saturday, May 8, 2021, at Wesley United Methodist Church, One Wesley Way, in East Dubuque, with Rev. Tom C. Shinkle officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. The funeral service will be live streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page. Visitation is from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m. on Saturday at Wesley United Methodist Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Shirley was born on May 17, 1930, in Metropolis, IL, the daughter of Carl and Velma (Porter) Houchin. She was united in marriage with Raymond L. Kirkpatrick on August 31, 1950, in Rockford, IL. He preceded her in death in July of 1985. She later married Norbert Foht in November of 1987.

Shirley was a registered nurse in the Surgical department working for Dr. Patrick at Medical Associates Clinic in Dubuque, retiring in 1990. She was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church and the UMW of the Church. Shirley was Chair of the Evangelist Committee and assisted with visiting people who were homebound.

Family, faith, and friends were her true treasures in life. Mom loved all of us with unconditional love sprinkled with a little sass on the side. We will deeply miss our mother; it is bringing us comfort knowing she is reunited with our dad in Heaven. We are sure Dad and Uncle Gene were waiting in a golf cart ready to show all the best golf courses.

Surviving are her four children, Kevin (Dixie) Kirkpatrick of Haltom City, TX, Bradley (Jill) Kirkpatrick of Hubbard, IA, Raymond (Lori) Kirkpatrick Jr. of Juanita, NE, and Sara (Eric Cooper) Kirkpatrick of Dubuque; 4-grandchildren, Dennis Allen, Nicholas Kirkpatrick, Andrew Kirkpatrick, Carl Klaeska; two sisters, Dixie Kirkpatrick of Missouri, and Nelda (Rollo) Burnett of Metropolis, IL, a brother, Jack (Sandra) Frazee of Madison, WI and husband Norbert Foht.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Velma, her husband Ray, a sister Mary Dennis, and Brother-in-law Gene Kirkpatrick.

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

Ida A. (Schriever) Mulert

Ida A. (Schriever) Mulert, age 102, of Dubuque, passed away at 11:14 a.m., on Monday, May 3, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her loving family. To celebrate Ida’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Saturday, May 8, 2021, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue. Due to COVID-19 concerns, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. To honor Ida’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday at Sacred Heart Church. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Ida was born on February 18, 1919, in Bristow, Iowa, to Fred and Topeka (Kate Hartema) Schriever. She graduated from Bristow High School in 1936. She married Harold H. Mulert on her 19th birthday, February 18, 1938. He preceded her in death on November 26, 1991, after 53 years of marriage. Ida was a homemaker, an excellent seamstress and loved to create quilts for her family. Family gatherings were her favorite events and always included several of her homemade pies. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Sacred Heart Rosary Society. She donated her time and talent for sewing to Stonehill Care Center for more than 20 years.

Those left to cherish Ida’s memory include

her 10 children,
Donald (Toni) Mulert, Casa Grande, AZ,
Jerome (Pat) Mulert, Earlville, IA,
Kathy (Jerry) White, Keswick, IA,
JoAnn (Teresa Lutes) Mulert, Austin, TX,
John Mulert, Dubuque, IA,
Linda (David) Gibbons, Maple Grove, MN,
Mary (Mike Sewell) Mulert, Elgin, TX,
Marvin (Jodi) Mulert, Dubuque, IA,
Teresa (Randall) Sirk, Dubuque, IA
and Barb (Don) Dempsey, Dubuque, IA;

and her 21 grandchildren, and 29 great-grandchildren.

Ida was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Harold Mulert; 3 brothers; 3 sisters; and a son-in-law, Richard Wemett.

Special thanks to those who cared for Ida in her final years at home and the staff at Stonehill who made her last two months as comfortable as possible.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Ida’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ida Mulert Family. Memorials may be made in Ida’s memory to Holy Spirit Parish, 2215 Windsor Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 or to Stonehill Care Center, 3485 Windsor Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa 52001.

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

Sister Marie C. Fitzpatrick, BVM (Jane Frances)

Sister Marie C. Fitzpatrick, BVM (Jane Frances), 95, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1600 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Saturday, May 1, 2021.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 10, 2021. Visitation in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel will follow immediately until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Marie was an elementary teacher at Our Lady of Victory in Waterloo, Iowa; and Sacred Heart in Manly, Iowa, where she also served as principal. She also ministered as an elementary teacher in Marcus, Iowa, and Hempstead and West Hempstead, N.Y.; as a principal in Chicago; and as an elementary teacher and principal in Rapid City, S.D. She was a religious education director in Denver and parish minister and psychotherapist in Aurora, Colo.

She was born on Dec. 27, 1925, in Chicago to John and Anne McHugh Fitzpatrick. She entered the BVM congregation Feb. 2, 1945, from St. Charles Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on Aug. 15, 1947, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1952.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother John. She is survived by a sister-in-law Bernice Fitzpatrick, Chicago, nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 76 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

Jonathan R. Kelly

Jonathan R. Kelly, 35, of Dubuque died Friday, April 30, 2021. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, May 7, at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Benton.

Jonathan was born February 14, 1986 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of William and Sue (Ginter) Kelly. He graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 2003. He worked as a free-lance server maintenance tech.

Jonathan was very passionate about volunteering and volunteered as a House Director for Almost Home. He also volunteered with Dubuque Humane Society, Resources Unite, and Never Use Alone.

He is survived by his fiancée, Leah Farrey of Dubuque and their son, Henry; his mother, Sue Kelly of Dubuque; father, William Kelly of Dubuque; sister, Nicole Kelly of Peosta and her son Kayden; half-sister Laura Glasgow of Davenport; best friend Chris Berlin of Dubuque; and aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by grandparents, Bob and Rosemary Ginter and uncle, Bill Pauly.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

The family would like to thank Drs. Braden Powers, Courtney Kueter; his homecare nurse, Alex, and the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, including Chaplain Claudia.

C. DuWayne Christian

Charles DuWayne Christian, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Sunday April 25th, 2021.

DuWayne was born on May 4th, 1940 to Charles H. and Tresel G. Christian in Tucson, AZ. After graduating Willcox High School in 1958 he went on to become an electrical lineman until his retirement in 2002.

DuWayne was a passionate gardener and loved to woodwork.

Anyone that knew DuWayne knew that he was the most loving and caring man. His family meant so much to him. He was predeceased by wife Josephine G. Christian and his beloved brother Ishmaal Christian, and sisters Betty J. Bird, and Billye T. Duncan.

He is survived by his large family of children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and will be painfully missed by all.

Donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, on his behalf.

There will be a family gathering to celebrate his life at a later date.

When tomorrow starts without me, And I am not there to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes, And filled with tears for me, I wish so much you wouldn’t cry, The way you did that day, While thinking of the many things we didn’t get to say, I know how much you loved me, As much as I love you, And each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me to, But when tomorrow starts without me,
Please try to understand, That an angel came and called my name, And took me by the hand, And said my place was ready, In heaven far above, And that I’d have to leave behind, All those I dearly loved.

Sister Alice Marie Dunphy, BVM (St. Gerard)

Sister Alice Marie Dunphy, BVM (St. Gerard), 88, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Thursday, April 29, 2021.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 7, 2021. Visitation in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel will follow immediately until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Alice was an elementary teacher in Chicago; Lincoln, Nebr.; San Francisco and Stockton, Calif.; Butte and Missoula, Mont.; and Las Vegas; and principal in Missoula, Mont., and Palm Springs, Calif. She was born on Nov. 17, 1932, in Chicago to Gerald and Cecilia (Twohey) Dunphy.
She entered the BVM congregation on Sept. 8, 1951, from Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on March 19, 1954, and final vows on July 16, 1959.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, James and Joseph Dunphy; and sisters Mary Fugger, Patricia McCarthy, Geraldine Johnson and Virginia Hohn.

She is survived by a brother, Gerald (Mamie) Dunphy, Glendale, Ariz.; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 69 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm. Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Hwy 35 N, East Dubuque, IL 61025 is in charge of arrangements.

John B. Hickey

John Baxter Hickey, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home at 3:30 p.m., on Sunday, May 2, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate John’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1425 Iowa Street. Due to COVID-19 concerns, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. To honor John’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 4:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 5, 2021, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, with Deacon Jim Luksetich officiating. Burial will be at a later date following cremation in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

John was born on December 19, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Frank J. and Mary (Baxter) Hickey.

John attended St. Patrick’s Grade School, Wahlert Catholic High School, St. Norbert College, graduated from Loras College, and then earned his Master’s degree at Clarke College. He honorably served his country with the U.S. Army in intelligence during the Vietnam War until his discharge in 1969. Unbeknownst to them when they met as children, John would meet the love of his life, Pamela Goodman. Following a short engagement they were married on May 30, 1970, in Glenview, Illinois. He was employed as a 5th and 6th grade teacher at Lincoln Elementary School for 36 years, retiring in 2005. He loved sharing stories about his adventures as a child with his friend “The Monk”. Teaching truly was his passion and John spent his summers teaching disabled adults at ARC. In his free time, John could be found spending time at the Veteran’s Freedom Center, playing cards or shooting pool, or shopping at the Hy-Vee on Locust, where he loved finding a good deal. He had a fondness for sitting by the tracks watching the trains go by. John liked being outside and always took meticulous care of his lawn and fish pond. He also found time to spend out on the river boating and fishing. No doubt, time with his family was always his main priority, and John did his best to never miss any of his grandchildren’s sporting events. He also liked spending time with his 4 legged friend, Daisy the dog, who was always by his side. We are deeply saddened at losing John here on this Earth with us. He was a wonderful husband, dad, “grumpa” and brother, who has taught us countless life lessons. We love you, miss you, and look forward to one day being reunited for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

his loving wife,
Pamela Hickey, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Kathleen (John) Mundo, Chicago, IL,
Rosa Hickey, Sacramento, CA,
Erin (Clyde) Kay, Dubuque, IA,
Brendan (Christina) Hickey, St. Louis, MO,
Caitlin (fiancé Dan Ruden) Hickey, Dubuque, IA
and Meghan (Ashley) Hickey, Davenport, IA;

his 12 grandchildren with 1 more due in October,
Isabel, Michael, Caroline, Riley, Cooper, Camdyn, Rowyn, Olivia, Jack, Eloise, Penelope and Blake;

his siblings,
Marien (John) Davis, Dubuque, IA
and Joseph Hickey, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, William Hickey; and his beloved dog, Bruno.

John’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. R.S. Ramabadron, Dr. Runde, the nurses and staff at Mercy CVU and Hospice of Dubuque, for the outstanding care they provided for John. Also special thanks to his nurse, Kelly Lehnhoff, with whom he shared a special bond.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in John’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. John Hickey Family. Memorials may also be made to the Veteran’s Freedom Center, 2245 Kerper Blvd., #1, Dubuque, Iowa 52001.

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

Joseph W. Puccio Jr.

Joseph “Joe” Walter Puccio Jr., 52, of Dubuque, died Saturday, May 1, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:00 am Thursday, May 6, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Joe’s family.

The Funeral Service for Joseph will be 10:00 am Thursday, May 6, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Pastor Tom Brennan officiating. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. The service 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.

Joseph was born January 11, 1969, in Dubuque, the son of Joseph Walter and Tamara Rae Sargent Puccio. On March 13, 2020, he married Sherry Lynn Jacobs in Dubuque.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry; step-son, William (Liz Fossum) Jacobs of Dubuque, step-daughter, Jessie Jones of Dubuque, step-daughter, Shara (Brett Werlein, Sr.) Jacobs of Marshfield, WI, grandchildren, Natalie Turner, Brett Werlein, Jr., and two on the way; one brother, Danny Hoffman of West Union, and his fur baby, Max.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one aunt, Vi, and his cousin, Bob.

Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home are in care of the arrangements.

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

Robert J. Lechtenberg

Robert James Lechtenberg, 60, of Austin, Texas, and formerly of Maquoketa, IA, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, April 25, 2021, at Christopher’s Hospice House in Austin, Texas, from pancreatic cancer.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, May 22, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. The celebration will continue immediately following the service with a gathering of family and friends from 12 P.M. Noon to 2 P.M. in “The Bistro” at Carson’s. Cremation rites have been accorded. It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Robert James Lechtenberg was born on March 30, 1961 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Joseph Anthony and Kay (Bronson) Lechtenberg. He grew up in Maquoketa and graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1979. He then attended Loras College and the University of Iowa in the early 1980’s and later graduated from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Fl with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in April of 1991. He married Sandra Jane Giardino on December 16, 2003 in Key West, Florida.

Robert had spent his work career in various portions within the Mortgage Industry, mainly in Underwriting Management. He had lived in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Fort Meyers, FL, Dunwoody, GA, San Antonio, TX and Austin, TX.

Robert enjoyed beach volleyball and was an avid runner who ran in multiple marathons and half-marathons.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Sandra Lechtenberg of Austin, TX; his mother, Kay Lechtenberg of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Mary Pat (Mike) Burns of Maquoketa, IA, Dr. Joseph Lechtenberg Jr. of Baldwin, IA, Ed (Annette Schmidt) Lechtenberg of Maquoketa, IA, Karl Lechtenberg of Bettendorf, IA, Kurt (Laurie) Lechtenberg of DeWitt, IA, Kathy (Rick) Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA, and Annette (Robert) Brasko of Apopka, FL.

He was preceded in death by his father Dr. Joseph A. Lechtenberg Sr. on January 31, 2010.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Maquoketa High School Class of 1979 Scholarship Fund.

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

Marilyn M. (Sieverding) Clasen

Marilyn M. (Sieverding) Clasen, 89, of Bellevue, passed away on Friday, April 30, 2021 at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, May 6, 2021 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, May 5, 2021 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am, Thursday prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue. Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the St. Joseph Bellevue – Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook page, on their You Tube Channel and on Bellevue Cable TV Channel 37. Please utilize masks during the services at the funeral home and church and respect social distancing due to the COVID-19 Pandemic

Marilyn was born May 28, 1931 in Bellevue, the daughter of Cletus and Clara (Till) Sieverding. She graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in 1949, and married Virtus J. Clasen on May 3, 1955 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

Marilyn worked at the Big D for many years, but she was most proud of raising her children and family.

She had a devoted faith (with a special devotion to St. Frances Xavier Cabrini) and prayed the Rosary every day. Marilyn loved to cook and bake (especially bowknots & cream puffs), and hosting family fish fries was Virtus’ and her specialty. They spent many winters in Arizona and also enjoyed many other memorable trips over the years. Marilyn loved to play cards and enjoyed playing bingo, especially with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed morning coffee gatherings with her siblings. She actively volunteered with the Bellevue Bread Basket for the past 30 years and baked altar bread for St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish for many years. She was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Parish, Knights of Columbus Auxiliary, and American Legion Auxiliary. Marilyn will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her husband of 66 years, Virtus; children, Steve (Sheila) Clasen, Sue (Jerry) O’Brien, Bruce (Carrie) Clasen, and Jayne (Tony) Schroeder; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren and 1 expecting great-grandchild; siblings, Alice Kilburg, Cletus, Jr. (Betty) Sieverding, Dave (Norma) Sieverding, Glen (Shirley) Sieverding, Dan (Mary) Sieverding, Mark (Sherri) Sieverding; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Donna Sieverding, Darlene Sieverding, Darla Sieverding, Mary Ellen Kirk, Pauline Wagener, Merlin (Marilyn) Clasen, and Lela Roiger; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; an infant sister, Karen; siblings, Thomas Sieverding, Donald Sieverding, and Loren Sieverding, sisters-in-law and brothers in-law, Phyllis Sieverding, Bernardine (Arthur Goldsmith and Edward) Nefzger, Alvin (Mary Ann) Clasen, Lorin Kilburg, James Kirk, LeRoy Wagener, Dennis Hines, and Cliff Roiger.

Every Meal, Every Day Marilyn recited the prayer ….St Joseph, Patron of the Dying, obtain for me a happy death. Amen

St. Joseph delivered.

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

John W. Welu

John W. Welu, age 68, of Dubuque, Iowa, went home to the Lord on September 16, 2020, at the Mayo Clinic Methodist Hospital in Rochester, Minnesota, surrounded by his loving family.

To honor John’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021, from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., at the Eagle View Pavilion in Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Avenue in Dubuque. A Service of Remembrance will be held at 1:30 p.m. to allow his family and friends share their treasured memories together. Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving John’s family.

John was born on April 14, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Peter D. and Grace (Mehl) Welu. The family moved to Asbury, Iowa when John was one year old and this is where he spent his childhood playing baseball, participating in 4-H activities and helping a neighborhood farmer. He met his beautiful bride, Betty Koethe, while they both worked at Montgomery Wards and they were married in 1973.

All who knew and loved John say he was best known as a Jack of all Trades, a family man, a farmer, and a fisherman; but, truth be known, he was so much more. His trades included a front-end alignment specialist, guitarist, newspaper delivery man, farm equipment mechanic, maintenance electrician, softball coach, construction maintenance electrician, school bus driver and ready-mix truck driver. He proudly invested his time and talents with Ray’s Bee-Line, K-Mart automotive, the Eldon Koethe Band, Telegraph Herald, Koethe Implement, FDL, Sherrill Softball League, Premier Tooling and Manufacturing, Dubuque Community School District, and Apex Concrete.

John made a lifelong dream come true by acquiring a cabin on Lake Inguadona in Longville, Minnesota, as a relaxing retreat for him and his family to escape the hectic life and create lifelong memories together. In his free-time, John’s favorite activities were visiting or playing cards and games with his family and friends, fishing for bass, or sitting on his cabin porch to just relax. He even found time to quietly sit in his hunting blind waiting for the unsuspecting duck to cross his line of vision.

John was a hard-working, kind, loyal and honest man who truly made the world a better place by simply being present within it. His dedication to those he cared for was unwavering. And if you were blessed to have been invited into John’s inner circle of friends, you were quite often exposed to his quick wit and perfectly timed sense of humor as well.

We have watched John fight the good fight against cancer for many years and our hearts now possess an unmendable tear as we watched him suddenly surrender his soul to his loving Lord and Savior. Thankfully, John has left behind a wonderful collection of memories, stories, and lessons for us to carry forward as we patiently wait for our eventual reunion with this uniquely rare breed of man among men. Thank you, John, for always being the best you could be through each and every day and may the peace you were so determined to know and possess, finally be yours. God Bless and God Speed John!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of John include,

his loving wife, Betty Welu, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 adored children,
Stephanie (Gary) Otkin, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin;
Jess (Ana) Welu, Longville, Minnesota,
and Angel Welu, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 7 grandchildren,
Hayden Otkin, Ian Otkin, Ruby Otkin, John E. Welu, Jacob Paulsen, Salem Brown-Welu, and Wyatt Brown-Welu;

his siblings,
Peter R. “Dick” (Sharon) Welu, Dubuque, Iowa,
Paul (Charlene) Welu, Anoka, Minnesota,
Nancy Welu, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Sue (Neil) Spoden, Dyersville, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his son, John Paul Welu; an unborn grandchild, Kai Welu; and his mother and father-in-law, Eldon F. and Irma (Gremmels) Koethe.

John’s family have a very special appreciation for Dr. Patrick B. Johnston, M.D., Ph.D., his Mayo oncologist and Elizabeth Lohmann P.A.-C., M.S., Hematology/Oncology, who are valued as professionals and friends. They want to send their gratitude to the many numerous doctors, nurses, technicians and staff at Mayo Clinic and Mayo Hospitals for all of their professional and personal care they provided to John and his family. A warm and sincere thank you goes to all of John’s family and friends who have been so supportive throughout John’s battle with cancer. May God shine his eternal light and love on all of your lives.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in John’s name to the Mayo Clinic Lymphoma Research through the Mayo Clinic Department of Development at 200 1st Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, or at https://philanthropy.mayoclinic.org/donatemc

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