Obituaries Archive

Carol A. Geber

Carol A. (Michels-Lundin) Geber, 81, formerly of Clinton, passed on Friday, January 17, 2025 at Highlight Healthcare of Morrison in Morrison, Illinois.

Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm on Friday, January 24, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue followed by a Funeral Service at 4:00 pm at the funeral home.  Burial will be at a later date in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Springbrook.

Carol was born May 26, 1943, in Bellevue, the daughter of Wilfred and Bernice (Felderman) Michels.  She graduated from Andrew High School in 1961.  Carol married Roger John Lundin on August 24, 1963, he passed away on March 23, 1970, later she married Dale A. Geber on May 2, 1975, he passed away on June 3, 2022.  She worked for the Iowa Department of Human Services until retiring in 2002. Carol enjoyed Sunday drives along the river, camping and most importantly traveling to visit her children and grandchildren.  Carol was lovingly nicknamed “Grandma” by the staff at Highlight Healthcare. 

Survivors include her children, Ron (Katie) Lundin of Des Moines, Phyllis Lundin of Iowa City, and John (Theresa) Lundin of Topeka; grandchildren, Jonathan, Jacob, Mikhaila, Calvin (Abril), Rachel (Cole), and Riley; great-grandchildren, Owen, Theo, Belen ; and a sister, Joyce (Kenneth) Laughlin.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands; and an infant brother, Wayne Michels.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Carol’s memory.

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

Dorothy M. Ruden

Dorothy M. Ruden, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly of Bernard, Iowa, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday January 17, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a parish wake service at 3:45 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday January 18, 2025, at the Church of the Nativity with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Dorothy was born on August 10, 1929, the daughter of Anthony and Mary (Johnson) Fischer. She grew up on the family farm on Fischer Road by the Twelve Mile House.

She was united in marriage to Eldon J. Ruden on August 28, 1951, at Holy Family Catholic Church, New Melleray, by Rev. Placid McGee. Together they farmed in the Bernard area before moving to Dubuque. Along with farming she worked at several Dubuque businesses including the Dubuque Packing Co. and Georgia Pacific.

Dorothy is survived by her children Dave (Rita) Ruden, Joyce Giannakouros, Dennis Ruden, her 14 Grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild, a brother-in-law Dick Strohmeyer and two sisters-in-law Doris and Rita Fischer.

She was preceded in death by her husband Eldon, son Jeff “Jeep” Ruden, daughter Jane Ruden, son-in-law George Giannakouros, her parents Anthony and Mary, siblings Donald (Vi) Fischer, Bill Fischer, Marie (Alfred) Kass, Jack Fischer, Rosemary Strohmeyer, Paul Fischer and Albert (Vicky) Fischer.

The family would like to thank the staff at Oak Park Place and Hospice of Dubuque especially Tami, Nicole, and Amber, along with Dr. Andrea Ries for all the loving care.

Parma Gean Lasche

Parma Gean Lasche, daughter, wife, mother and caretaker of many, died January 17, 2025

Parma was born in Spencer Iowa to Maude Twogood and Everett Palmer Boyles. She was the youngest of 8 and born in a time that believed in the importance of family, community, and the notion that there is always room at the table for at least one more.

Parma married Charles Lasche on May 12th, 1956. Together they started their new life in Cascade, Iowa, but eventually moved to Dubuque where they raised their children, Loren (Bianca) of Carlsbad CA, Gean (deceased), Susan (Ed) Heber AZ, Martin, Sandy UT, David (Karen), Des Moines and Julie Lasche Brown of West Des Moines; 4 grandchildren, Arianna and Bryan Lasche and Olivia and Jacob Brown.

Parma began her in-home daycare business when her youngest started kindergarten. She helped raise dozens of kids from so many different families. Many of those people remained a part of her life until she moved to West Des Moines to help care for her twin grandchildren, Olivia and Jacob. Many mornings while living in West Des Moines with her daughter, Julie, you would see her walking the twins to and from school where she made friends with all the other kids and their parents. Everyone called her Grandma.

Parma was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her siblings, and her daughter, Gean.

A celebration of life, open house will be held on January 26th, 2025, in West Des Moines, at 4312 Aspen Drive from 12:00pm – 3:00pm

Gloria D. Templeton

Gloria D. Templeton, age 68, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on January 12, 2025, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, IA, while surrounded by her loving family and friends.  To honor Gloria’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gloria’s family.

Gloria was born on June 24, 1956, in Kentucky, a daughter to James E. and Mable L. (Graham) Templeton.  She went on to spend her life intently focused on one goal in mind; to bring joy to others wherever and whenever she could.  Gloria was a physical therapist by trade, but those who knew her best were well aware that her attendance in clown college was where her heart truly resided.  She found no greater joy than bringing smiles and laughter to the hearts and minds of those around her.  Gloria was one of a kind in the greatest sense of the words and anyone who met her was bound to love and adore her in time.

Gloria was naturally gifted with many artistic talents as well.  Her abilities to write, paint and so much more were continually being exercised for all to enjoy.  In her free-time, you could easily find Gloria perfecting her skills with a bow and arrow, or even a sword when the moment was right.  She also enjoyed baiting her hook when the weather was nice and time allowed her to see if she could finally catch the big one which was seemingly just waiting patiently for her arrival on the river’s edge.  Gloria was also a fan of UK College basketball and a little time in her favorite recliner as her team took the court was a perfectly acceptable way to spend a couple of hours if possible.  It’s difficult to imagine a world without Gloria’s love and laughter filling the space around us.  We will miss her more than words could say and only hope that she is now free from her earthly health battles as we long for the day when we will see her beautiful and joyful smile yet once again.   Thank you, Gloria, for doing your best to focus on the best parts of this life without hesitation and may the Lord bless and keep you until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Gloria include,

her three children,
Rosemarie Duty and her husband Roberto Reyes in Chicago, Il,
Eiliyah Ann Ali and her husband Khalid Ali in Temple Hills, MD,
and Kevin H. Duty and his wife Rebecca Duty in Pueblo West , CO;

her ex-husband,
Patrick J Bullock in Hanover, Il;

her grandchildren,
Joshua Reyes, Kaleb Duty, Alex Racine, Michaela Duty, and Jena Ali;

her siblings,
Sandria Templeton Hughes and Larry Templeton;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents; her granddaughter, Gabriella Irizarry; her brother, James Templeton; and her ex-husband, Bruce Duty.

Gloria’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center, along with her friends at the Ecumenical Towers, for all of their love, care and support.

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

George A. McDermott

George Alan McDermott, 94, of Cascade, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Accura Health Care in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for Alan will be held from 9:30 to 12:30 p.m., Monday, January 20, 2025, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services for Alan will be held at 12:30 p.m. with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding.  The services will be live streamed on the St. Thomas Aquinas Facebook page at 12:30 p.m.   Burial will follow in the Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Alan was born August 20, 1930, at home in rural Cascade, Iowa, son of Raymond and Lenore (Dolphin) McDermott.  He received his lower education in a one room schoolhouse near his parent’s farm and went on to graduate high school from St. Martin’s High School in Cascade, Iowa.  Alan was a United States Veteran having served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, January 1952 to January 1954.

On August 8, 1959, he was united in marriage to Marjorie A. Luensmann at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa.   Together the couple went on to farm in the rural Cascade area and raise their ten children.  Alan also drove school bus for the Western Dubuque School district for 25 years while farming.  He also was courier for Ohnward Bank & Trust. His wife Margie preceded him in death on August 7, 2023.

Alan was devoted to his faith and an active member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade.  He was also a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930 for 68 years and the Cascade American Legion Post #528 for 72 years.  In September 2011, Alan got the privilege to participate in the Honor Flight to Washington D. C.

Those left to cherish his memory are his ten children, Cheryl (Don) Peters of Monticello, Lynne (Jim) Mona of Urbandale, Mike (Monica) McDermott of Bernard, Pat McDermott of Warrensburg, MO, Lisa (Jeff) Workman of Las Vegas, NV,  Joan (Jeff) Kramer of Bernard,  Bill (Tammy) McDermott of Ely, Tom (Kris) McDermott of Cascade, Judy (Mike) Hayen of Scotch Grove, and John (Rebecca) McDermott of Cascade; and 26 grandchildren; 7 great grandchildren with two more on the way; four brothers, Earl McDermott, Jerry (Shirley) McDermott, and Bob (Barb) McDermott all of Cascade, and Howard (Carol) McDermott of Monticello, two sisters-in-law, Maureen McDermott of Cascade, and Susie Luensmann of Delhi.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Ryan Kramer; one brother, Ken McDermott; one sister, Betty (Jack) Vance; sister-in-law, Mary McDermott; father and mother-in-law, John and Marcella (Schute) Luensmann; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Luensmann, Lila Luensmann, Robert Luensmann, Irene (John) O’Brien, David (Kathleen) Luensmann, and Delrose (Tony) Broghammer.

In lieu of flowers, an Alan McDermott memorial fund has been established.

The family is extremely grateful for the staff of Hospice of Dubuque, Nurses and staff at Accura Health Center, Sherry Kelchen- ARNP, and Rev. Mark Osterhaus for all the wonderful care and support they gave to Alan.

A video tribute may be viewed, and online condolence may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Harry L. Ketelsen

Harry L. Ketelsen, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa, at the age of 87.

Harry Lee Ketelsen was born on December 26, 1937 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Ingwer and Lessie Alvina (Wiese) Ketelsen.  Harry’s early years in Iowa laid a strong foundation for a life characterized by hard work and commitment. He answered the call of duty and served in the U.S. Army in Germany from 1955 to 1958. His time in the military earned him an honorable discharge.

Upon returning to civilian life, Harry’s heart led him to Connie Lange, and the two were united in marriage on August 2, 1978, in Monmouth, Iowa. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising a family.

Harry’s professional life was as a dedicated semi-driver, a career that spanned over six decades. He worked for Hoffman Eggs, Smith Transfer, and Consolidated Freight Ways, where his reliability and strong work ethic were well-known and respected.

Beyond his work and family commitments, Harry had a passion for the outdoors. He found joy in fishing, boating, camping, and 4-wheeling. His love for adventure also led him to migrate south for the winters, embracing the warmth and the change of scenery. However, it was the time spent with his family, especially his kids and grandchildren, that brought him the greatest happiness.

Harry was a devoted husband to Connie Ketelsen of Baldwin, Iowa, and a loving father to his children, Cynthia Ketelsen-Kusk of Tyrone, NM, Harry James Ketelsen of DeWitt, IA, Rebecca (Robert) Sonstegard of Maquoketa, IA, John (Melissa) Ketelsen of Las Vegas, NV, Tina (fiancé Dave Hardison) Bennett of Maquoketa, IA, Trevor (Katie) Ketelsen of Davenport, IA, and Dawn (Joe) Crist of Maquoketa, IA. His legacy also includes 23 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories.  Harry also leaves behind a sister, Cheri (James) Cobb of Tyrone, NM. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ingwer and Lessie Alvina (Wiese) Ketelsen; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Evelyn and Ervin Lange; his brother and sister-in-law, Harlan and Roni Ketelsen; sisters, Shirley Truhlar and Evelyn Gillette; and his grandson, Michael Beilenberg.

A private family gathering will be held.  At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  No public services are planned at this time.

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

Sr. Mary Jeanne Stopper, BVM

Mary Ann Barton

Mary Ann “Annie” Barton, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at Westbrook Acres Nursing Home in Gladbrook, IA, after courageously living with Alzheimer’s disease. A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, Iowa. A prayer service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Mary Ann was born on July 23, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, the beloved daughter of Clarence and Helen (Mueller) Barton. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church.

As a dedicated caregiver, Mary Ann began her career at Xavier Hospital, working in the maternity ward and as an EEG technician. Following the hospital’s merger with Mercy Hospital, she continued her service as a CNA in the Cardiac Medical Unit until her retirement. Her compassion and selflessness were hallmarks of her life, especially evident when she adopted and raised her 15 month old niece as her own after the untimely passing of her sister, Helen Kay.

Mary Ann found joy in life’s simple pleasures—tending to her rose bushes, knitting, cross-stitching, and baking. Her home was always stocked with Pepsi, Lay’s potato chips, ice cream, and chocolate, always ready for her to enjoy while watching a murder mystery or Hallmark movie. Mary Ann was a true lover of music, and she had a remarkable voice that she shared at weddings and funerals, often reminding her family that no one could sing Ave Maria quite like she could. Above all, her greatest joy was her family.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Helen Barton; her brother, John F. Barton; and her sister, Helen Kay (Barton) Frohs.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Beth Weiland (fiancé Darren Swanson) of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Matty Weiland of Dubuque, Kayley Weiland (fiancé Jonah Crilly) of Waukee, IA, and Aaron Lehman of Dubuque.

Susan Kay Schmitz

Susan Kay  “Sue” (Lieb, Osterhaus) Schmitz, age 73 of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14th. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life Sunday February 2nd from 1pm-4pm at Denny’s Lux Club, 3050 Asbury Rd.

Sue was born in Dubuque on December 12th 1951, the daughter of David and Gloria Lieb.  She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

Sue enjoyed cooking meals for her family. She was an accomplished seamstress and quilter and made many gifts for her family and friends through the years. Sue greatly enjoyed music and had a great love for gardening her plants, flowers and watching birds.

She was married to Gene Osterhaus September 12th, 1970. They had two children together, Nicholas and Jenny.

Sue was married to John F. Schmitz in Hazel Green WI on December 20th, 1987. John and Sue had two children together Jon Michael and Bre-Annah Elizabeth.

Sue is survived by her husband John F. Schmitz, children, Nicholas Osterhaus, Jenny Osterhaus Naderman, Jon (Carlie) Schmitz, Bre-Annah (Tony) Shiltz and two step children, Laura (Ron) Timm and Shelly (Ted) O’Malley, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren

She is also survived by her brothers and sisters, Joe (Lynn) Lieb, Mike (Janet) Lieb, Guy (G.G) Lieb, Troy (Gina) Lieb, Tracy (Jon) Ruosch; a sister in law, Sandy Lieb and many  nieces and nephews.

Sue was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Cheryl Lieb and Cynthia (Lieb) Trine, her brother David Lieb; son in law, Steve Naderman and former husband Gene.

Catherine R. Wilhelm

Catherine R. Wilhelm, 96, of Dyersville, IA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Friday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica Catholic Church in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Catherine was born on June 15, 1928, to Michael (Fred) and Anne Arganbright in Guthrie Center, IA. She was one of 11 children, though one sibling passed away in infancy. Raised on a farm east of Guthrie Center, Catherine developed a strong work ethic and an enduring faith. She attended a country school during her early years and later graduated from Panora High School at the age of 16. Following her graduation, she taught at the country school for a couple of years before continuing her education at the University of Iowa, where she shared a room with her cousin.

During her second year at the university, she met Bob Wilhelm. The couple enjoyed attending Iowa Hawkeye games together. After a while, they parted ways and she took a teaching job in Ripley, IA. At the close of her first year of teaching, she returned to the University of Iowa to visit her cousin, where she and Bob rekindled their romance. They married on November 22, 1951, in Guthrie Center, IA.

After Bob’s graduation from pharmacy school in 1952, he took a job in Mount Pleasant, IA, before settling in his hometown of Dyersville in 1958. There, Bob worked as a pharmacist at the Corner Drug Store, eventually becoming its owner. Together, they raised 11 children, building a home filled with love, faith, and family.

Catherine dedicated herself as a stay-at-home mother, creating a warm and welcoming environment for her children and their friends. She had an incredible ability to balance the demands of a large family with grace and patience. Her home was always filled with the aroma of fresh cookies or donuts after school and hearty, home-cooked meals in the evening. She cherished time with family and friends, always opening her heart and home to others. Catherine’s deep faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she prayed the rosary regularly at home, always lifting up prayers for the welfare of her family and friends.

As her children grew older, Catherine enjoyed working alongside Bob at the Corner Drug Store, contributing to their family business. She and Bob were deeply committed to their community, believing in the importance of giving back. They worked tirelessly to support their parish, hospital, schools and the restoration of the historical Dyer-Botsford House. Their faith was central to their lives; they spent countless hours in Adoration, leading the rosary, guiding tours of the Basilica, and serving as lectors during Mass. They were also active and strong believers in the Right to Life campaign. Catherine also found joy in singing with the Resurrection Choir.

Bob and Catherine shared a remarkable 71 years of marriage before his passing in December 2022. Together, they formed lifelong friendships, raised an incredible family, and left a legacy of love, service, and faith.

Catherine is survived by her children: Pat (Lee) Kruse of Lancaster, PA; Mary (Mark) Gaul of Worthington, IA; Dan Wilhelm of Dyersville; Deb (Boyd) Campbell of Rudd, IA; Linda (Wayne) Overman of Murfreesboro, TN; Tess (Brian) Jones of Greer, SC; Joe (Angie) Wilhelm of Castle Rock, CO; Janet (Dave) Sisk of Brownsboro, AL; Mike (Kathy Henry) Wilhelm of Centennial, CO; Connie Wilhelm (Kurt Rosenthal) of Springville, IA; and Sue (Matt) Kramer of Greer, SC. She is also survived by her youngest brother, Mike (Mary) Arganbright of Linden, IA; her sister-in-law, Diane Arganbright of Panora, IA, brother-in-laws: Paul (Rita) Wilhelm, Dave Wilhelm, and Merle (Sharon) Wilhelm; 36 grandchildren, 49 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren, many in-laws, nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Bob, her parents, Fred and Anne Arganbright, siblings: Donald, Tom, infant brother William, John, Vince, Jim and Richard Arganbright, Elizabeth Petersen and Mary Moylan, and one great-grandson, Dane Zeigler, in infancy.

Catherine was a loving wife, devoted mother, and cherished friend. She loved to spend time outside in her gardens or on the front porch, savoring a cup of coffee and a cinnamon roll, if you were lucky, with whoever happened to be visiting. She spent many hours out there with Bob, taking in nature’s wonders. She also loved to rock her grandbabies, softly singing Bye-o-bye. Her unwavering faith, selfless spirit, and boundless love touched everyone who knew her. She never lost her keen wit, even up to the end.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com

Rosemary T. Capriola

Rosemary T. “Rose” Capriola, age 88, of Dubuque, IA, left us suddenly in the arms of her angels on January 14, 2025.  To honor Rosemary’s life, family and friends may gather in food and fellowship for her Celebration of Life from 1:00–4:00 p.m., on Saturday, January 25, 2025, at the Rockford Verdi Club, 782 North Madison Street in Rockford, IL.  A Prayer Service will be held at 1:00 p.m. with Keith Seaberg officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rosemary’s family.

Rosemary was born on May 6, 1936, in Rockford, IL, a daughter to Joseph and Lillian (Oddo) Capriola.  She was a kind and sweet soul through and through and the gentlest woman you could ever hope to meet.  Thankfully, Rosemary also possessed a strong will and spirit of determination which she carried faithfully throughout her entire life.  Burying three infant sons would be enough to leave permanent scars on the heart of any mother, but Rosemary used these trials and tribulations as a cause to focus even more intently on the loved one’s the Lord was gracious enough to gift her with.  She loved her family deeply and dearly.  Rosemary had decided early on that family was her greatest joy and they were going to be her life until the end was to arrive.  Any opportunity to have them by her side, under her immense and ever-loving wings, or even on the phone with her sincere ear pressed firmly against it; Rosemary’s heart was always content when she was playing her role as matriarch perfectly.

She did find some time to share her talents with her friends at the Roma Bakery, and never missed a chance to perform a little retail therapy with Marcy, but again, Rosemary’s heart and mind were continually watching the clock and simply waiting for the time to arrive when she was back in the presence of her beloved family.  It’s beyond imagination to even attempt to begin navigating this new and heartbreaking reality we must face without her love and light shining so brightly in all of the lives around her.  The world will never be the same and appears so much smaller today sadly.  We will love and miss our dear Rosemary with all of our hearts and can only hope to find peace and healing in time.  Thank you, Rosemary, for role-modeling so intently the true gift of love, for leading by example without hesitation, and for never allowing the pain that this world sometimes brings into our lives to ever gain a foothold within your devotion to others.  We pray that the Lord has brought you into your eternal state with such love and grace that even our pain would be eased in the knowledge of the peace you feel today.  God bless and God speed sweet Rosemary and may the legacy of love you leave behind remind us all that this is only a temporary journey for each and every one of us until we must never be apart again forever more.

Those left to cherish the memory of Rosemary include,

her three adored daughters,
Rose (E.J.) Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Nina (Joe) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Carla DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her six grandchildren,
Davey Ames, Dubuque, IA,
Jason (Jilly) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jeff (Jackie) Ames, Rockford, IL,
Joey (Angie) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
Jimmy (Sarah) Graciana, Rockford, IL,
and Jory DalSanto, Byron, IL;

her fourteen great-grandchildren,
Zoe (Alex), Carmen (Joey), Hannah (Zach), Zane (Sydney), Isabella, Paige, Max, Lex, Lilly, Evie, Mariah, Camden, Scarlett, and Tatum;

her four great-great-grandchildren,
Sawyer, Noah, Joey, and Delilah;

her brother,
Joseph (JoEllen) Capriola, Jr., Rockford, IL;

other loved ones,
Dave Ames,
Mark DalSanto,
and Lori Wineland;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Rosemarie was preceded in death by her parents; the love of her life for 33 years, Bob Shipp; her brother, Anthony (JoAnn) Capriola; her special sister-in-law, Marcy Capriola; her three infant sons, Joseph, Gary, and Carl;  her granddaughter, Toni Ames; and her great-granddaughter, Olivia Graciana.

Rosemary’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dubuque Fire and EMS Departments, the Dubuque Police Department, and the Dubuque County Medical Examiner’s Office for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.

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

Sandra J. Meyer

Sandra Jean Meyer, 83, of Fairfax, passed away from complications of dementia on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha. Funeral Mass: 10 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025 at St. Jude Catholic Church by Rev. Nick March. Burial: St. John Cemetery, Centralia .  A vigil service will take place at 4 p.m. on Thursday at Teahen Funeral Home.  Those not wishing to attend vigil service, may visit with the family on Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home and after 9 a.m. on Friday at the church.

Sandra is survived by her husband Herman; five children, Colleen (Tom) Reding of Mt. Vernon, Kenneth Meyer of Dubuque, Greg (Tracy) Meyer of Asbury, Michelle (Mike) Ives of Cedar Rapids and Tony Meyer of Murrieta, CA; 20 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren with two more on the way; four siblings, Barbara Terrell, Cathy (Steve) Krieg, Tom (Theresa) Hooks and Janet Schultz; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Rita Hubbard, Cletus Meyer, Trudy Kurt, Kathy (Doug) Schlickman, Wayne Zumhof, Diane Hooks and Jean Meyer.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings and brothers and sisters-in-law, Bill (Jacque) Hooks, John Hooks, Nancy (David) Sparks, Diana Hooks, Linda Hooks, Rick Schultz, George Terrell, Ann Meyer, Willie Meyer, Mary Agatha Zumhof, Jerry Hubbard, Donnie (Eileen) Meyer, and Leon Kurt.

Sandra was born on January 11, 1942 in Kieler, WI the daughter of Gordon and Margaret Ginter Hooks.  She graduated with honors from Immaculate Conception High School, Dubuque class of 1959. On November 11, 1961 Sandra married Herman Meyer at Holy Ghost Catholic Church, Dubuque. She was a homemaker for many years and was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church.

Sandra enjoyed crocheting, baking, cooking, travelling by car and flower gardening.  She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Sandra’s family would like to thank the staff at the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy for all of the compassionate care that was shown to Sandra and her family.

Memorials may be directed to the Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy.

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

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich

Rev. Msgr. Russell M. Bleich, 89 a priest of the Archdiocese of Dubuque passed away on Friday January 10, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday February 8, 2025, at 10:30 at Saint Edward Catholic Church in Waterloo, Iowa. There will be visitation from 4 to 6 on Friday February 7, and from 9 am until time of mass on Saturday February 8 at Saint Edwards Church in Waterloo, Iowa. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Dubuque is in charge of the arrangements.

Rosemary F. Stoffel

Rosemary “Rosie” F. Stoffel, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 11, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Private family services will be held. A private family burial will be held at a later date at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Rosie was born on July 9, 1933, in Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Frederick and Margaret Gronau. She was united in marriage to Irvin R. Stoffel on October 4, 1952, at St. Philomena’s in Asbury. For over 30 years, Rosie was employed as a supervisor at ARA Food Service located at John Deere.

Rosie was a caring and patient person. Her heart of gold and willingness to help anyone define the woman she was. She never raised her voice, and without a mean bone in her body she was a wonderful mother and an even better wife to Irvin. Rosie liked to fish, play bingo, and join in a competitive game of euchre.

Rosie is survived by her children Dennis (Laurie) of Lehigh Acres, FL, Mark (Robin) of Peosta, Tina Sweetland of Davenport, Celeste Fischer of Key West, Andrew (Karen) of Balltown, and Tim of Lehigh Acres, FL, 18 grandchilren, many great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, sister Esther (Dick) Farnum of Dubuque, and two sisters-in-law Pat Parr and Marge Dyga.

She was preceded in death by her husband Irvin in 2012, two sons Leonard (2009) and John in infancy, grandson Christopher Stoffel, two sons-in-law Dan Sweetland and John Fischer, her parents Fred and Margaret, brother Walter Gronau, sister Virginia Pust, mother and father-in-law, and many siblings-in-law.

Rosie had 91 years full of wisdom, good health, and enough love to go around.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque – especially Shay-, and Leonard Funeral Home for all their loving care of Rosemary.

Rodney G. Miller

Rodney G. Miller, 78, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025 following a long illness.  Private Family Services will be conducted.  Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Rodney was born August 1, 1946, the son of Rodney Onie and Louise Miller.  He served his country in the US Army 1966-1968 during the Vietnam War.  Rodney enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs and spending time with his family.  He married Sherry Etting on July 9, 1995 in Iowa City.  They moved to Bellevue following Rodney’s and Sherry’s retirement.

Survivors include his wife, Sherry; a son, Scott (Christy) Miller; stepson’s, Jason (Makaela O’Donnell) Yeager and Casey (Johannah) Yeager; and 9 grandchildren.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lisa and a step-brother, Jack.

Condolences and Cards may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home c/o Rodney Miller Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA  52031.

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