Obituaries Archive

Lorraine May

Lorraine May, 93, formerly of  Decatur, Illinois, whom resided with her daughter, Nancy Richard- Spray in Cascade  passed away Sunday, February 20, 2022 at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for Lorraine will be held from 9 to Noon at the Reiff Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 1, 2022.

Services for Lorraine will be held at 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at the Cornerstone Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Pastor Tony Foeller presiding.  Burial will be held in Cascade Community Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was  born May 5, 1928 in Decatur, Illinois, daughter of William and Goldie (McDaniel) Deardorff.

Lorraine loved playing Bingo, volley ball, doing seek and find work books, and was an avid fan of John Wayne Movies.  Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and her church family.

She is survived by four children, Nancy (Pete) Spray of Cascade, IA, Betty (Harold) Hayes of Grove City, OH, Bill Carter and Kenny Carter both of Decatur, IL; four grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren and one sister, Francis.

She is preceded in death by her parents; three brothers and nine sisters.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Anyone unable to attend may send memorials to Reiff Funeral Home, ATTN; Lorraine May family, P.O. Box 430, Cascade, Iowa  52033.

Idalou Kisor LeRette

Idalou Kisor LeRette passed away peacefully on February 18, 2022. A private service for immediate family only will be held at a later date at Oak Hill Cemetery in Hancock, Iowa.

Idalou was born in New Sharon, Iowa, on March 5, 1926 to Danny Dale and Alice Flo (Evans) Kisor. The family soon moved to Oskaloosa, Iowa, where Idalou grew up. She attended school in Oskaloosa and graduated from Oskaloosa High in 1945.

On August 12, 1948 Idalou married Charles J. LeRette in Raton, New Mexico. They were married for 60 years. Two daughters were born from this union. (Both daughters became teachers.) After a short while, they moved their young family to Blue Island, IL. The couple left the Chicago area to retire to Brooksville, Florida, where they lived for 15 years. Due to increasing health issues, “Chuck” and Idalou moved to Dubuque, IA to be near family in 2007.

Surviving are two daughters, Susan Gunther formerly of Houston, Texas, and Patty (Dale) Metcalf of Dubuque. Three grandchildren of Dubuque, Tiffany (Brian) Cue, Brent (Sarah) Phillips, and Robert Metcalf. Idalou’s great grandchildren are Ethan and Estella Cue and Samantha and Brianna Phillips.

Idalou was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sister Grace Caruthers and brothers Morgan and Marian Kisor. Also her son in law Stephen Gunther.

Idalou belonged to the Grace Methodist Church in Blue Island, IL.

Memorials may be sent to the Dubuque Humane Society or the Hancock Methodist Church in Hancock, IA.

Sr. Marlys Becker

Sister Marlys (Felice) Becker, OSF, 88, of Dubuque, died Friday, February 18, 2022, at the Clare House in Dubuque.

The Rite of Final Committal will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 21, 2022 followed by burial at the Sisters of St. Francis natural burial site. Masks will be required. Livestream of the service can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans. A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date at Mount St. Francis Center.

Marlys was born August 21, 1933, in Watkins, IA, the daughter of John and Anna Frese Becker.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis on August 25, 1952 and made her final profession of vows on August 10, 1958. Sister received her master’s degree in guidance/counseling from Loras College in Dubuque, IA. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Holy Trinity and St. Mary in Dubuque, St. Mary in Waterloo, Bancroft, Monticello, Meyer, and Stacyville. In Illinois, she was missioned at Niles. She served as Chaplain at Marian Health Center in Sioux City, IA.

Survivors include her sister, Sr. Mary Ann Becker, RSM; sister-in-law, Mary Becker; nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Helen (Glenn) Boddicker, Hazel (Clarence) Schulte, and Ida Mae (Ralph) Houser, her brothers, George (Bernice) Becker, Wilbert (Dorothy) Becker, Louis Becker, and a brother-in-law, Mark Oberreuter.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

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

Delores A. Kloser

Delores Ann (Becker) Kloser, was welcomed into her heavenly father’s arms on February 17, 2022, at the age of 90. She died peacefully in her sleep. She was number nine of 13 children born to William and Bertha (Widmar) Becker Sr. on July 5, 1931.

Delores was a devout Catholic and faithful parishioner at numerous Dubuque congregations throughout her long life. Visitation will be from 9:00-10:45am at St. Anthony Parish on Tuesday, February 22nd. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Delores met her husband, Joseph, at the age of 17 on a blind date. They married in 1950 and she gave birth to 10 children. She was the center of our world as children and our information hub connecting us as adults.

Her petite size belied her fierce spirit, indomitable fortitude, and endless energy. She instilled a strong work ethic in all her children mirroring her own upbringing: Work first. Play later. The eight acres of land they purchased in unincorporated Asbury, then considered “the sticks,” was our playground and workplace. Half of the land was devoted to gardens and orchards to economically feed 12 people. How we hated toiling in the summer heat weeding and harvesting vegetables for canning and winter fruit cellar storage. What wasn’t gardens, was two large yards and wide-open fields for a batch of kids to play pick up sports, build forts, create Olympic style sledding hills, and climb trees. We either were taught or inherited “green thumbs” that many of us nurture yet in our adult lives because of our mother.

Delores carried her love of flowers to every home she lived, inside and out. Green plants and flowers flourished inside the house year around. Outside, the yards were dotted with flower beds and the scents of blooms. She loved the natural world and all living creatures, especially her numerous dogs. She was creative and always found time for her hobbies. Whether it was looming rugs, breeding Pekingese puppies, making clothes, painting ceramics, having or going to garage sales, or refinishing antiques. Somehow, she found more than 24 hours in a day for her pleasures.

Delores also worked outside the home in several industries that tapped her sewing prowess. She worked on and off including a night shift at Flexsteel Industries while bearing 10 children. In her mid-life, she went to work for Rhomberg Furriers for another 40 years applying her attention to details and craftmanship to give the very best in service and quality to their clientele.

She loved Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Westerns and anything starring John Wayne. She and Joe enjoyed going on Saturday night dates and traveling the Continental US, Europe, Alaska, and Mexico.

Over 63 years of marriage, our parents gave us riches in memories to savor. They lived long enough to shower their grandchildren and great-grandchildren in love. Mom loved each of us unconditionally as only a mother does.

She is survived by her children, Joseph (Michelle), Deborah (Dave) Powers, Karen (Eric Schiffman), Keith (Tammy), Mike (Emily), Ruth, Laura Wood, Teresa (James Mills), Leann (Rob) McDonald, and Bill (Wendy Sparrow); 22 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, siblings Evelyn “Evie” High, Joan Miller and Lois Becker; and 1 brother-in-law, John (Rita).

She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, siblings; William Jr., Harold, Walter, Roger, Marie, Eleanor, Dorothy, Roselyn “Rosie” and Alice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

The family thanks the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health, Drs. Kelley, Martin, and Kahn for all their tender loving care.

Howard J. Grobe

Howard J. Grobe, age 89, of Bernard, IA, completed his earthly journey on Feb. 18, 2022, at his home in Leisure Lake surrounded by loved ones.  To honor Howard’s life, a private family service for family and friends will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Howard’s family.

Howard was born on January 22, 1933, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John and Hilda (Hedrick) Grobe.  Howard joined the U.S. Army after high school and went on to honorably serve his country until he returned home to begin his career at Dubuque Stamp.  He was a tool and die maker for over 44 years and eventually made his way into retirement in 1995.  Howard was an outdoorsman at heart and almost all of his greatest pleasures could be found under the open sky above.  In his younger years, hunting, canoeing, and star gazing were at the top of his list and he still treasures the telescope which he brought home from his service time in Japan till this very day.  Howard also enjoyed fishing whenever possible if he could find the time to make a trip up to the Northern Waters in Minnesota to watch the loons move around him while casting his poles, he was surely thankful for the opportunity to experience a little heaven on earth.  Howard was an outgoing and humble man who not only embraced life and all of its simple pleasures, but also knew how to have fun while doing it.  At the end of the day, you could often find him reflecting on the joys of life under the calming and serene glow of his Tiffany lamps.  Howard was not a complicated man, but rather an honest man among men who only strived to find the most joy he could and generously share it among his family and friends.  We will miss Howard more than he would imagine, but we are forever grateful for the time that we had with him and will wait patiently until we see him again.  Thank you, Howard, for leaving behind a legacy that can and will shine brightly in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Howard include,

his 2 daughters,
Loralie (Brad) Austin, Omaha, NE,
and Rosalie Wieland, Dubuque, IA;

his grandson,
Noah Voels;

his great-granddaughter,
Liana Lynn Voels;

his dear friends and neighbors,
Del and Tammy Bischoff, Bernard, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, and longtime love and partner in life, Judy Bischoff.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Howard’s name to Hospice of Jackson County.

Howard’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Jackson County, along with Del and Tammy, for all of the professional and compassionate care and concern.

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

Pastor Steve Hansel

Pastor Steve Hansel, 68, of Dubuque went to be with the Lord on Sunday, February 13, 2022.  Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 am Monday, February 21, 2022 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a funeral service at 11 am.  Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia.

Pastor Steve was born August 11, 1953 in Dubuque, son of Robert and Marie (Wallech) Hansel.

He graduated from Wahlert High School.  On July 22, 1985, he married Marti Vacek.

Pastor Steve began his full-time ministry in 1987.  For several years Pastor Steve traveled and ministered in many churches here in the Midwest; pastored in Edina, Missouri, and then founded Grace Christian Church (formerly Miracle Harvest Church) in Dubuque, Iowa, in 1999.  He was also a chaplain for the Dubuque Police and Sherriff departments.

He is survived by his wife, Marti of Dubuque; children, Nick (Sarah) Hansel of Eldridge, Iowa and their children, Grant, Grace, Glory, Hope, Mercie, and Harmony; Robert (Rebekka) Hansel of Urbandale, Iowa and their children, BeBe and Bianca; and Lisa Hansel of Dubuque.

He is also survived by his mother, Marie Hansel; six siblings, Kate (Tom) McGovern, Carolyn Achen, Susie (Bob) Nugent, Karen (Dan) Raymond, Krissy (Randy) Nauman, Victoria Fury; sister in law, Elaine Hansel; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Hansel; a sister, Leanne Frantz; and a brother, David Hansel.

Memorials may be made to the Steve Hansel memorial fund.

Richard Bennis

Richard “Dick” Bennis of Delmar passed away Wednesday February 16th at West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids.  The Funeral Mass will be held Friday February 25th, at 10:30 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, IA.  Visitation will be from 5:00-8:00 pm Thursday February 24th at Carson Celebration of Life Center Maquoketa, IA.  Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Church Cemetery, Delmar.

Dick was born May 31, 1937 in Maquoketa, IA to Jerry and Flossie (Lane) Bennis.  He grew up in the Welton/Delmar area farming with his father.  He graduated from Delmar High School in 1955.  He served in the Army Reserve two years with an honorable discharge.  Dick married Sharon Westphal in October 1956  and to this union were born two daughters, Jane & Julie.  After Sharon’s passing in 1963, Dick married Joyce Petersen in 1967; they became the parents of two sons, Kent & Kye. Dick and Joyce celebrated 54 years of marriage.

Dick spent his entire life farming near Delmar.  He had a particular love for livestock and feeding animals. He always talked of his devotion to Faith, Family, and Friends.  His Catholic faith was the foundation of his life.  Dick inspired many with his big heart, positive attitude, sense of humor, and kindness, even during the most difficult days.  He was an active member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar.  He served on the Delwood School board, as a leader of the Delmar HotShots 4-H club, and Charter member of Delmar Lions.  Dick was active member of Clinton Co. Pork Producers and served on Clinton County Farm Service agency board.

Dick was an avid card player, joke and storyteller.  The Bennises made lifelong friends through trips to Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, and many other adventures.  They enjoyed attending sporting and music events, especially those of their family, and watching the Cubs, Hawkeyes, and Cyclones.

Dick will be dearly missed by his wife, Joyce; his four children Jane (Don) Bowman of Fulton, IL; Julie (Jim) Kapsch of Robins, IA; Kent (Kristi) Bennis of Delmar; Kye (Sara) Bennis of Delmar; and ten grandchildren: Linissa Cooper, Lara Buckles, Liana LaShelle, Lucy Feltman, Mary Kapsch, Blair Bennis, Brie Bennis, Brant Bennis, Drew Bennis, Reagan Bennis, and ninegreat-grandchildren; his sister Carol Novak, brother Jerry (Connie) Bennis, and sister in-law Mary Bennis.  Dick is preceded in death by his first wife Sharon; his parents Jerry & Flossie Bennis, and his brother Gary Bennis.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials can be made to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Camp Courageous of Iowa, or St. Croix Hospice of Cedar Rapids.

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

Maurice P. Niemer

Maurice P. “Maury” Niemer, age 96, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 1:45 p.m., on Wednesday, February 16, 2022, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Maury’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 20, 2022, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, February 21, 2022, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street, with Rev. Andrew J. Upah officiating.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum, where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Maury was born on March 17, 1925, in Cassville, Wisconsin, son of Frank and Mathilda “Maude” (McNamara) Niemer.

Maury was raised on a farm outside of Fennimore, Wisconsin. His elementary and high school days were spent at Fennimore.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Judith Kerper, on June 13, 1964, at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque.  The couple was truly blessed with 5 sons and 57 wonderful years of marriage together.  Maury was always a hard worker, devoting 31 years to the Dubuque Packing Company and 34 years doing maintenance for the Visitation Sisters, before his well earned retirement.  Family life, and his Christian faith, were the cornerstones of his life as was evidenced by his long time membership with the Church of the Nativity.  Music and singing with the choir were a great source of joy and accomplishment for Maury.  He taught himself to play guitar at age 70, and became an original member of the Older and Bolder Band.  They entertained at several places throughout the Tri-States, and much to the delight of the residents, they would put on untold performances at nursing homes in the Dubuque area for 25 years.  In his younger days, Maury was an avid bowler and kept on bowling until he was in his 90’s.  He was also a lover of the great outdoors and could often be found camping, trout fishing or bird hunting with the family.  His family was no doubt Maury’s greatest source of joy.  His love and devotion to Judy was evident to everyone around them, and an inspiration to married couples everywhere.  Maury was a humble man and an excellent role model who has taught all of us countless life lessons that will be passed on for generations to come.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Maury’s memory include

his loving wife,
Judith Niemer, Dubuque, IA;

4 sons,
Kevin (Ellen) Niemer, Dubuque, IA
Patrick (Amy) Niemer, Asbury, IA,
Gene (Kristi) Niemer, Manchester, IA
and Doug (Jenny) Niemer, Victoria, MN;

his grandchildren,
Ben, Stephanie, Megan, Kalee, Colin, Jeff, Noah, Sophia, Emma and John;

and his sister,
Lorraine Hidding, North Carolina.

Maury was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Timothy Niemer; and his siblings, Dorthea, Tom, John, Kathleen, Margaret, Mary Lou, Jim and Ann.

Maury’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Kirkendall, and the nurses and staff of both Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of the outstanding care and compassion they have shown for Maury and the entire family.

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

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

Pam R. Wachendorf

Pamela R. “Pam” Wachendorf, 64, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on Feb. 16, 2022, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Pam’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, Feb. 18, 2022, from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at the Eagle’s Club, 1175 Century Drive in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pam’s family.

Pam was born on May 14, 1957, in Dubuque, IA, one of seven children to Robert and Rosemary (Welsh) Michael.  Pam was raised to have an unending love and devotion for family and friends and a strong work ethic that was second to none.  She eventually found the love of her life, Clarence Wachendorf, and the two were blessed with over 25 years together before Clarence was sadly called home ahead of her.  Pam spent over 20 years in the dairy department at Hy-Vee and made countless friends along the way.  It was only due to recent health issues that Pam had to reluctantly leave her working hours as memories in the past.  Pam knew how to enjoy her free-time outside of work as well.  An evening at the bowling alley with friends, or trying her luck at the nearest Bingo hall were always sitting at the top of her favorites list, but even a few hours creating magic at her craft table could easily fill the time and bring Pam a little extra satisfaction in her day.  But, hands down, Pam found fewer moments in life that gave her greater joy than spending Sunday’s with her boys watching her Packer’s take the field.  Her heart was larger than life and the abundance of her generous love will always be evident in the memories which she leaves behind now.  Pam could also be a vibrant firecracker when the situation was appropriate and you never had to wonder where she stood on the important matters in life.  It’s beyond difficult to imagine that Pam has left our physical lives so quickly, but we are eternally grateful for the 64 years we were blessed with also.  Thank you, Pam, for being such a positive force in this world and may peace be yours, as we seek healing in our hearts and minds, while we all wait patiently to be reunited with your beautiful spirit who has left us much too soon.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Pam include,

her 2 sons,
Casey Kohl, Dubuque, IA,
and Jake (Megan) Wachendorf, Des Moines, IA;

her grandson,
Asher Wachendorf, Des Moines, IA;

her siblings,
Eugene Michael, Dubuque, IA,
Eleanor “Norann” Long, Fitchburg, WI,
and Debbie (Kevin) Linden, Dubuque, IA;

her sister-in-law,
Nancy Michael, Sheboygan, WI;

her brother-in-law,
Clarence Brandenburg, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous other extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Pam was preceded in death by her husband, Clarence Wachendorf; her parents; her brother, Robert Michael; and her sisters, Colleen Brandenburg and Kathy Maus.

Pam’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Leona M. Manternach

Leona M. Manternach, 97, passed away Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at Accura Healthcare Center in Cascade, surrounded by her family.

Visitation for Leona will be held from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Monday, February 21, 2022 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Msgr. Dave Hoefler presiding.  Concelebrating will be Rev. Mark Osterhaus and Msgr. Jim Miller.  Assisting Deacon will be Ben Hoefler.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade is in charge of arrangements.

Leona was born to Luxembourg immigrants, Henry and Anna (Anen) Miller, on April 15, 1924.  She grew up on a farm in Cascade and graduated from St. Mary’s School in Cascade, Iowa.  Leona married Raymond Manternach on November 18, 1942 and three days later, Ray left to serve his country in WWII.

Upon his return, Leona worked along side her husband on their farm in Temple Hill and raised 10 children there.  Leona gardened, canned, milked cows, picked corn by hand, drove the tractor during hay season, raised and butchered chickens, sewed, crocheted, quilted and baked.

She was a member of St. Peter’s Altar and Rosary Society and ran “Leona’s Lunch Stand” at the Temple Hill picnic for many years.  Leona volunteered at the Aquin Catholic School Lunch Program for many years after her retirement.

Leona enjoyed many a good card game and nothing pleased her more than spending time with her 25 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade.

She is survived by three sons, Ray (Jeanne) Manternach of Temple Hill, Thomas (Cheri) Manternach of Cascade, and William Manternach of Boca Raton, FL; six daughters, Karen Manternach of Newport, Oregon, Nancy (Greg) Grant of Cedar Rapids, Diann Love of  Marion, Kathy Manternach of Cedar Rapids, Darlene (Roy) Doorenbos of Grinnell, and Liz (Peter) Lensen of Cascade.

She is preceded in death by her husband Ray Manternach on January 21, 2012; her parents; one son, David Manternach on July 25, 1970; and all of her siblings, Ray Miller and Leo Miller, Rose Manternach, Sally Miller, Clara Strang and Evelyn Bertling.

Mom led by example…  Work hard.  Say your prayers.  Enjoy a good laugh.  Forgive.

A Leona M. Manternach memorial fund has been established.

Anyone unable to join the family may send cards, notes, or memorial gifts to Reiff Funeral Home, Attn:  Leona M. Manternach Family, PO Box 430, Cascade, Iowa 52033. You may also leave online condolences for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family of Leona would like to thank Sherry Kelchen, Hospice of Dubuque, Home Instead, the nurses and staff of Accura Healthcare and Fr. Mark Osterhaus.

Debra E. Motsch

Debra Elaine “Deb” Motsch, 63, of Dubuque, IA, lost her battle with Non-Smokers Lung Cancer on February 10, 2022, at home.

Family and friends may gather from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturday, February 19, 2022 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a service will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Randy & Dawn Rick officiating.  Burial will be at a later date in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Deb was born on March 12, 1958, to Eugene Arnold and Ruth (Deiters) Motsch. She graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School with honors, Class of 1976. She worked for WC Brown Publishing Company for 20 years as a Paging Specialist in the Graphic Arts Department.

Deb had a great sense of humor and personality. She loved working in the yard with flowers and feeding the birds and squirrels. She was a member of the Grace Chrisitan Church. She enjoyed going on shopping trips and researching family genealogy. She loved family get togethers.

Deb is survived by brothers Vern Motsch of Dubuque, and Dave Motsch of Sagle, Idaho; sister Virge (Mike) Engling of Dubuque; nieces Carissa (Nick) Biver of Dubuque, Sheila Harris of Dubuque, and Emily Grimes of Dubuque; nephew/Godson Andy Grimes of Dubuque, nephew Trevor (Liz) Engling of Gorham, Maine, and nephew Will (Scarlett Adams) Engling of Dubquue; great nieces and nephews Haley, Trystin, Taiya, Sophia, Rowan, Myla, Jett, and Luka; several aunts, uncles and cousins; and her beloved cat Trudee.

Deb was preceded in death by her grandparents, nephews Jason and Josh Motsch, and her Silver Persian cats Dusty and Claire.

In lieu of flowers, a Debra Motsch Memorial Fund will be established.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Hillary, Nicole, Hayle, Julie, the Late Pastor Steve, Marti Hansel, and members of Grace Christian Church who were like family to her.

Jean M. Sheehan

Jean Marie Sheehan, 66, of California, formerly of rural Bellevue, passed away on January 24, 2022 at Sonora Hospital in California after a long battle with multiple Myeloma.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Saturday, February 26, 2022 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek.  Family will greet friends beginning at 9:30 am until Mass Time also on, Saturday. February 26, 2022 at the church.  Burial will be in Church Cemetery.

Local arrangements entrusted with  Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Jean was born October 23, 1955 the daughter of Francis Elmer and May Patricia Sheehan.  She attended Richland #1 Country School grades 1-4, and then 6-12th grade at Bellevue Community Schools.  Jean attended Kirkwood Community College and graduated with a degree in Animal Husbandry.  This led to her career in training, showing, and giving riding lessons.  She was a member of The Shady Ladies, a search and rescue team that also traveled to different shows and parades, including multiple trips to the Rose Bowl.  Her career led her from Iowa to Missouri to California.  She also worked multiple other jobs, including janitor at Sonora High School, and most recently at Columbia Community College in California.

Jean is survived by her brothers, Larry, Mike, Tim (Sarah), and Roy (Jeannine) Sheehan; sisters, Mary (Lloyd) Koos, Nora Sheehan, and Irene (Paul) Samples; numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews; her dear and very best friends, Toby and Eddie; and of course her horses and her loving dogs.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; and one sister, Anne Sheehan.

Condolences may be mail to the family:  Sheehan Family 28073 216th St. Bellevue, IA  52031

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

April M. Way

April M. Way “Princess”, 38, of Potosi, WI, passed away Monday, February 14, 2022, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, in Iowa City, IA, as a result of Covid-19 complications.

A memorial will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 19, 2022 at the Bread of Life Church, 745 Lutheran St., Platteville, WI with burial to occur at a later date in the Clayton Cemetery, rural Garnavillo, IA. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

April was born on October 24, 1983 in Dubuque, IA, the beloved daughter of Clifford T. and Linda M. (Churchill) Bailey. She was a graduate of Potosi High School, class of 2002. On January 17, 2009 she was united in marriage to Porter W. Way at Lancaster, WI. April was the Chief Personnel Officer at Clopas, LLC, and the Lead Pastor at Bread of Life Church, both in Platteville. She was an avid animal lover and enjoyed singing Karaoke.

She is survived by her husband, Porter; her mother, Linda Bailey of Potosi; her siblings, Debbie McDermott, Steve Bailey, Fay Patton, and Hope McDermott; numerous nieces and nephews; and a great nephew. She was preceded in death by her father Clifford; and a brother, Robert “Bob” Bailey.

In lieu of flowers, donations to help the family are requested via the Bread of Life Church in Platteville.

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

John J. Till, Jr.

John J. Till, Jr. 91, of La Motte, Iowa passed away on February 13, 2022 at home.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 18th, 2022 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery in La Motte with military honors by the Bellevue American Legion Post #273 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. The family request all who attend wear a face covering.

John was born on April 4, 1930 in Bellevue, Iowa the son of John J. Till Sr. and Gertrude (Reddin) Till. He married Dellene Evers on April 26, 1969 at Assumption Church, Sylvia Switch in Zwingle.

John served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. He worked for the United States Postal Service as a rural mail carrier for 31 years. He also owned and operated Till’s Tap in La Motte from 1958 to 1980. In John’s retirement he enjoyed hunting and fishing and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife Dellene; Daughters Dianne (Rick) Heiar, Deb (Gary) Cook and Deanna (Scott) Sagers. Eight grandchildren, fifteen great grandchildren and loved by many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John Sr. and Gertrude Till; brothers Mark Till, Tony Till and a brother in infancy; and his grandson Zachary Sagers.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Jackson County Hospice; and also to Angela Burken for the special care and attention she provided John and his family in his final hours.

Jerry Hoerner

Jerry Hoerner, 61 of Key West, Iowa passed away at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics on Sunday, February 13, 2022, following a sudden illness.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 Saturday, February 19, 2022, at Saint Columbkille’s Catholic Church, with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation for Jerry will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, February 18, 2022, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road where a family wake service will be held at 2:45p.m.

Jerry was born on October 25, 1960, in Dubuque the son of Bob and Millie (Frederick) Hoerner. He grew up in Key West and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1979. Jerry married Marianne Welsh on August 21, 1982, at Saint Columbkille Church.

Jerry was a drywall contractor by trade and an antique collector by passion. He owned and operated Hoerner Drywall and worked with many contractors and homeowners in the tri state area. He also was an avid collector of antiques or anything he thought he could make a dollar on. He loved to attend auctions and yard sales, always looking for a deal.

He was also a great outdoorsman and sportsman. He played baseball and softball his entire life, he also was an avid hunter and horseman and in his earlier days he participated in area rodeo’s. He was an avid Saint Louis Cardinal fan and especially proud of his uncle Joe who pitched for the Cardinal’s. He enjoyed playing cards and having a cold one at one of his favorite watering holes, with his many friends.

Jerry loved his family more than anything and could often be found helping out with his grandchildren, babysitting, getting them to school or attending one of their many ball games and dancing events. They were truly Grandpa’s pride and joy.

Jerry is survived by his wife Marianne; his three children Adam Hoerner, Callie (Bobby) Schauer, and Luke Hoerner; his grandchildren Dominic Hoerner, Faith Schauer, Brody Hoerner, Eddie Schauer, Isabelle Schauer, Paisley Hoerner, Ethan Hoerner, Wyatt Schauer and Blake Schauer. His siblings Julie (fiancé Leonel Vasquez) Hoerner-Lester, Ted (Stacy) Hoerner, Dan (Linda) Hoerner, Marianne Hoerner and Nancy (Al) Hoerner-Ronek; his aunts and uncles Ann (Bob) Lambe, Phyllis Hoerner, Sally Hoerner, Darlene (Donnie Schmitt) Hoerner, Jean Frederick, many nieces, nephews and wonderful cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Bob and Millie and a brother Tommy, along with his favorite dog Trixie, the best bird dog ever.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Finley Hospital ER, especially his amazing nurse Jennifer.

In lieu of flowers a Jerry Hoerner memorial fund will be established.