Obituaries Archive

Dorothy A. Kisting

Dorothy Ann (Nauman) Kisting, 97, formerly of 1880 Garfield Ave., Dubuque, IA, passed away on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the home of her daughter, Jane Montgomery of Westfield, IN, under the care of Hospice.

A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be later in 2021 at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque, when it is safe for everyone to gather. Committal services were held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dorothy was born on January 27, 1923 near Sherrill, Iowa, the daughter of John C. and Ida C. (Anthony) Nauman.

She married William H. “Bill” Kisting on January 27, 1943 at Camp Bowie, Texas. He preceded her in death on May 24, 2007.  She was a homemaker and was previously employed at the General Dry Battery Factory and Bethany Home. Dorothy was presently a member of the Church of the Resurrection, and formerly was a member of Holy Trinity Parish and its Rosary Society, and the Dubuque American Legion Auxiliary.

Surviving are four children, Tom (Jan) Kisting of Powell, OH, Judith Ann Erner of Carmel, IN, Bonnie Lee & (Charles) Potter of Wauchela, FL, and Jane (Dan) Montgomery of Westfield, IN; nine grandchildren, Kevin, Todd & Cort Kisting, Jennifer Erner, Jessica (Jeremy) Maners, Heather (Tommy) Guiccardo, Hannah Potter, Christa Montgomery, and William (Melissa) Montgomery; seven great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mary Ann Burbach, Darlene Timmerman and Patricia Torgler all of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ida, her husband William H. “Bill”, and her sister Lillian Breitbach.

Memorials may be made to St. Stephen’s Food Bank, 3145 Cedar Crest Ridge, Dubuque, IA 52003, or online to www.Bread.org .

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

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

Eugene Stillmunkes

Eugene (Gene) Stillmunkes, 94, entered eternal life peacefully on Friday, December 18, 2020 at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf surrounded by family.

Eugene Leo Stillmunkes was born August 11, 1926 to Peter F. and Rose C. (Leuchs) Stillmunkes in Balltown, IA. He was a 1944 graduate of Miles High School.  He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1944 to 1946, stationed oversea and based in Guam.  Gene was discharged June 1946 from the US Navy, as an Operating Pilot for the Navy Landing Craft Utility troop carrier Coxswain Unit.  He had the privilege to participated in the WWII Honor Flight from Dubuque to Washington D.C. to visit the WWII Memorial.

He married the love of his life Margaret Regan on August 11, 1948 in LaMotte, Iowa.

Gene and Margaret have farmed in Eastern Iowa since their marriage, with the last 62 years at their present farm location on Highway 61 in north Jackson County.  His farm was visited by federal, state, local officials and foreign dignitaries from several countries. Gene also served on Maquoketa State Bank, United Livestock, Farm Service, soil & water conservation and numerous agricultural boards.  He is a member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, Knights of Columbus, 4^th Degree and served as Grand Knight for the local chapter.

He is survived by his seven children: Dianne (Terry) Callahan, of Epworth, Darlis (Dan) Spaete, of Bettendorf, Gary (Pat) Stillmunkes, of Westminster, CO, Rose (Ted) Schulte, of Bradenton, FL., Paul (Linda) Stillmunkes, of DeWitt, Jeannie Quick, of Davenport, Tom Stillmunkes of Dubuque; sixteen grandchildren, and twenty-five great grandchildren; one sister, Delores Hoffman and one brother Glen Stillmunkes.  Gene is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Margaret Jane; his parents, three brothers Cletus, Eldon and Raymond, and a son-in-law Ron Quick.

We will miss him being a large presence in all our lives and with his continual involvement with the community.  We have pleasant memories of the life we shared with him.  A big joy of his life was his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Due to the COVID -19 pandemic, a private funeral mass will be held at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Otter Creek.  There is no public visitation.  Burial will take place at Holy Rosary Cemetery, LaMotte, next to his wife Margaret.  The service will be recorded and later uploaded to the Carson Celebration of Life Center website.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, the family asks that Catholic Masses be said in his memory or memorials be made to St. Lawrence Catholic Church.  The Stillmunkes family would like to extend a special thank you to all the healthcare professionals including Hospice of Dubuque and Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House, that have been involved with Gene’s care.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Eugene L. “Gene” Stillmunkes Family.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Mary Ann Current

Mary Ann Current, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, December 16, 2020, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Mary’s life will be held 1:30 P.M., Monday, December 21, 2020 at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 11:30 A.M. to 1 P.M., Monday, December 21, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Mary Ann Eggers was born on October 14, 1941 in Jackson County, Iowa to Frederick and Frances (Kueter) Eggers.  She attended Esgate country school and then Monmouth High School.  She had worked as a checker at Fareway in Maquoketa for several years, as a CNA at Crestridge Nursing Home for awhile, and lastly as housekeeper at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa until retirement.

Mary loved bowling, enjoyed doing word search puzzles, and watching western’s and the Andy Griffith Show on television.

Those left to honor her memory include a daughter, Audrey (Jay) Olson of Maquoketa, IA; a brother, Gary (Pam) Eggers of TN; 4 grandchildren, Brett Berggren, Cassie Berggren, Blaine (Mercedes) Berggren, and Eric Potter; and 2 great-granddaughters.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Mary Ann Current Family.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Please feel free to call or stop at the funeral home with notes of support or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Richard E. Walton

Richard E. Walton, age 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on December 16, 2020, at ManorCare in Dubuque.  To honor Richard’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Richard’s family.

Richard was born on May 22, 1937, in Joplin, Missouri, a son to Robert and Adena (McFarland) Walton.  Richard honorably served his country with the U.S. Army while stationed in France.  He proudly completed his detail working in the bomb/weapons recovery division on the beaches of Normandy.  Richard met the love of his life, Yvonne, while overseas and the two were united in marriage on November 24, 1956, in LaRochelle, France.  The love-struck couple were blessed with 6 adored children, and 52 wonderful years together before Yvonne was sadly called home ahead of him in 2008.

Upon returning back to the states to rejoin civilian life, Richard decided that he would provide for his family by navigating the highways across the country in his 18-wheeler.  He was not only a proud union steward throughout his career, but he also received his million-mile safety award patch before eventually retiring from H & W Trucking.  Richard set an enduring and amazing example for all of the generations behind him to follow.  His passion for family and hard work never wavered and knowing that his legacy was observed consistently by everyone he loved reassured his confidence that we would all be in good hands as the last lone monarch of the Walton family had to say good-bye for now.

Richard was a loving father and grandpa who embraced all that life had to offer.  He was an avid bass fisherman who thoroughly enjoyed our unlimited access to the Mississippi, but truth be told, his greatest desire in this world was to watch, see and hear his family make their way through each day knowing that his strong and sturdy shoulders would always be there to encourage, support, and even push in with them whenever needed.  Our hearts possess and unmendable break today as we watched Covid 19 deal the final insult to Richard’s years long battle with health issues.  We find peace and comfort in trusting that he is spending his favorite holiday, Christmas, with his beautiful bride once again, and in knowing that his only final wish was for us to stay safe while saying “You kids have a steak on old Dad” when you can.  Thank you, Richard, for the resilient spirit you leave behind for us to embrace and may the Lord keep you all securely in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Richard include,

his children,
Tilly (Russ) Frommelt, Dubuque, Iowa,
Jean-Pierre Walton, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas,
Jerome (Debbie) Walton, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas,
and Richard E. (Shelly) Walton II, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas;

his grandchildren,

Jessica (Matt Hepperly) Breitbach, Nicole Breitbach (and her dog, Juno),  Xyavier and Lauresa Walton, Billy-Joel Walton, Yvette (Bill) Dumond, Joshua Walton, Richard Walton III, Emily Walton, Johanna Walton, Yvonne (Roy) Taveras, and Melissa Walton;

his great-grandchildren,
Amelie, Keaton, Lela, Gabby, Deshaun, and Anthony;

his sister,
Tillie (Kelly) Pruitt, Tulsa, Oklahoma;

his extended family,
Tim Giellis, Spring Walton, Paul Walton, Mary Ann Walton Gaylord, Cindy (Pat) Burkhart, Dave (Yoshiko) Walton, Sandy Smith, Patricia Smith, Donna Walton, Rob E. Walton, and Emily (Joshua) Patterson;

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

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Yvonne Walton; 2 sons, Christopher Jon Walton in 2009, and his earthly angel, Dominique Paul Walton in 2016; his siblings, Donald Walton, George Walton, Bobby Walton, Mary Johnson, Martha Harlow, Anna Jane Brinsky, and Janet Walton; and his extended family members, Anna McCann, Andrea Walton, Elizabeth Walton, Mike Smith, and Mildred Walton.

In memory of Richard, memorials may be made to the Veteran’s Freedom Center Endowment, C/O The Veteran’s Freedom Center, 2245 Kerper Boulevard, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001.

Richard’s family would like to extend a very sincere thank you to the nurses and staff at ManorCare, Tri-State Dialysis, Paramount Ambulance, and the Jule for continually gracing Richard with their professional and compassionate care.  Also, to Dr. Whalen for his commitment to medicine and his enduring nature which he shares so generously with his patients.  Please know that your dedication, loving support, and uncompromising concern will never be forgotten and may God continually bless all of you for your kindnesses!

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

Lila May Willman

Lila May Willman, 84, of Dubuque, formally of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque. She was born November 8, 1936, in Wood Center, the daughter of Edward and Ivanelle (Hansel) Willman. Lila went to grade school in a country school in Wood Center. She graduated from Edgewood High School in 1955 and attended Dubuque College.

Lila worked at Dubuque Packing Company until her retirement. She resided in Edgewood and later years in Dubuque.  Lila loved to cook, taking weekend trips and socializing with her longtime partner, Jerry Imbus, and her many friends. She loved her family and cherished time spent with her grandchildren. Lila was a loving and caring person to her family and to all those who knew her.  She will be greatly missed.

Survivors include her son, Kevin (Joyce) Willman of Worthington; her daughter, Karen Willman of Chicago, Illinois; her two grandchildren, Tim and Jessica Willman; and her sister Jean (Tom) Bausch of Marion.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her longtime partner, Jerry Imbus.

Due to COVID-19 concerns and the governor’s proclamation, masks are required at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Private Family Funeral Service:  Saturday, December 19, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home, Edgewood, with Pastor Mike Jackson officiating.

Interment: Edgewood Cemetery – Edgewood, Iowa

Elizabeth C. Smith

Elizabeth C. “Betsy” Smith, 59, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully at home from Pancreatic Cancer at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:15 a.m. Saturday, December 19, 2020 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. A Walk Thru visitation will be from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. The Mass will be live-streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page. Due to the Coronavirus, masks, social distancing and occupancy requirements will be observed.

Betsy was born on September 27, 1961 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Robert E. and Dolores C. (Hohmann) Basten. She was united in marriage to John O. Smith on March 27, 1982 at St. Columbkille church in Dubuque.

Betsy attended high school at Cypress Lake in Fort Myers Beach, FL, and Northland High School in Remer, MN, in which she graduated. Betsy then attended Itasca Community College and received an Associates degree in Accounting.

Betsy was baptized and was a member of St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque and was also baptized and Confirmed at St. Edward’s Church, Longville, MN. She had a true devotion to St. Mary, St. Theresa and St. Delphima.

Betsy enjoyed the family trips to Minnesota, time spent with her grandchildren, but most of all, family dinners with laughter around the table.

Surviving are her husband John; two children, Ryan (Sheila) Smith of Menominee, IL, and Jenny (Tom) Rogers of Dubuque, IA; two special grandchildren, T.J. and Connor Rogers; her siblings, Karen (Denis) Dolan of Little Falls, MN, Gene (Catherine) Basten, and Linda (Dave) Herbst both of Dubuque, John (Penny) Basten of Galena, IL, and Toni (Richard) Ziegenfuss of Zephyrhills, FL; her mother-in-law, Mary Smith of Dubuque; her in-laws, Jim (Sue) Smith of Cascade, IA, Cathy Bormann and Paul (Susie) Smith both of Dubuque, IA, and Sally (Dan) Weber of Bernard, IA; and her many special cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her father-in-law, Orlin Smith, and a brother-in-law, Darrell Bormann.

The family would like to give special thanks and gratitude to the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara, for the wonderful care provided for Betsy during her courageous battle.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Thomas L. Healy

Thomas “Tom” L. Healy, 80, of Dubuque, died Sunday, December 13, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Private family visitation will take place Friday, December 18, 2020.

The public Mass of Christian Burial for Tom will be 11:00 am Saturday, December 19, 2020, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Father Phillip Kruse as the Celebrant and Father David Schatz as the Concelebrant. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. Due to the state mask mandate, masks are required at the church. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Tom’s family. Private burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. 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.

Tom was born November 24, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Leonard and Rita (Lattner) Healy. He attended and graduated from Loras Academy in 1959. Tom worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 35 years before retiring on March 31, 2000. He additionally served and retired after 25 years of service from the Iowa Army National Guard, Company A 1st Battalion 133D.

On May 1, 1965, Tom married Judith Simon at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. She passed away on November 22, 2011. On February 2, 2013, he married Beverly Thomas at Church of the Nativity.

Tom thoroughly enjoyed breakfast with his National Guard buddies every Tuesday and breakfast with his Loras Academy buddies once a month. He was an active member of St. Columbkille’s Parish for many years. Tom also served many years as a Boy Scout leader for Troop 13 at St. Columbkille’s. He enjoyed woodworking, fishing, camping, canoeing, traveling all over the world, spending time with his family and friends, and he especially enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren. He was a lover of all animals, but he had a special place in his heart for Mr. Molly, his beloved cat. Tom was a loving husband and father and a loyal friend to many.

Survivors include his wife, Beverly Thomas-Healy of Dubuque; daughter, Melissa (Brian) Vize of Dubuque; son, Shawn Healy of Soldiers Grove, WI; four grandchildren, Logan, Ethan, Braydan and Chloe Vize; Beverly’s children, Jason (Julie) Thomas of Tipton, IA and Jessica (Ben) Ruden of Dubuque; Beverly’s grandchildren, Anna and Paige Thomas and Mia and Barrett Ruden; sisters, Dianne Healy-Clauss of Royal Oak, MI, Connie Thomas of Dubuque; brothers, Dennis (Mary) Healy of Eldridge, IA, Joseph (Julie) Healy of Dubuque and a sister-in-law, Ginger Healy of Hazel Green, WI; as well as a host of loving friends and family.

He is preceded in death by his parents and step-mother, Velma Healy; his first wife, Judy; two brothers, Robert and John Healy, two sisters, Janaan Burns and Patricia Hash.

The Healy family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital for their EXCEPTIONAL care of Tom and Dr. Whalen for his professional care.

In lieu of flowers a Thomas L. Healy Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Rick Weber

Rick Weber, 55, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, December 15, 2020. A private family service will be Monday, December 21, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, Iowa.  Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Rick was born on June 8, 1965, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Richard and Barbara (Vogt) Weber. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1983 and spent his entire life working in retail, 20 years at K-Mart, with the last 16 years at Bed, Bath & Beyond in Dubuque.

Rick was a diehard Chicago Cubs fan and lifelong Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Lakers fan. He enjoyed bowling, watching NASCAR races, NBA games and most any sporting event.  What he treasured most of all was spending time with his son Logan.

Rick is survived by his son, Logan Weber and his mother Tammy Carroll of Dubuque; his father, Richard Weber, of Dubuque; his brothers, Randy (Shellee) Weber, Evansdale, IA, and Jason (Kursten Zegarac Reuter) Weber of Dubuque; his sisters, Lisa (Ron) Ryan, of East Dubuque, and Nicole Weber of New York City, NY; nieces and nephews, Noah Weber,  Myah Weber, Zoee Weber, Hannah Weber and Grayson Ghezzar.

He was preceded in death by his mother Barbara, grandparents Leo and Marie Vogt and Herman and Leona Weber along with several aunts and uncles.

Rick was a wonderful and kind father, son, brother, uncle and friend.  He will be missed by all.

Bonita K. Pickel

Bonita K. “Bonnie” Pickel, age 64, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:10 p.m., on Monday, December 14, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Bonnie’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 20, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Due to COVID-19 concerns the number of people inside the building will be limited, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices.  To honor Bonnie’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 3:00 p.m., on Sunday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.

Bonnie was born on March 20, 1956, in Tucson, AZ, daughter of Frank and Wilma (Garrett) Berwanger.

Bonnie grew up in the Massey Station area and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  After graduation she went on to nursing school at NICC, and would put her degree to good use at several facilities.  She was employed with Stonehill Care Center, Finley Hospital and with the Sisters at Sinsinawa Mound, until her well earned retirement.  Bonnie was united in marriage to Randy Pickel, and they were blessed with 2 wonderful children together before deciding to go their separate ways.  When she found some free time in her day, Bonnie could be found curled up with a good book or out and about for a little retail therapy, always looking for her next big bargain.  She enjoyed being outside, especially when it involved a walk in the woods or a trip down by the river to her beloved Massey Station.  Bonnie was also very interested in natural medicine and always looking for new home remedies.  Her family no doubt was the aspect of her life that brought her the greatest joy, especially being a grandma.  Bonnie had a caring spirit and always took care of everyone else, never expecting anything in return.  We are saddened at losing our mom and grandma, but take some comfort in knowing that she is now resting peacefully and free of all of the health challenges she has faced with such bravery.

Those left to cherish Bonnie’s memory include

her children,
Christy (Jeremy) Lenaers
and Chad (Chelsay Crenshaw) Pickel, both of Dubuque, IA;

her 4 grandsons,
Alex Lenaers, Isaac Lenaers, Elijah Lenaers and Chad “C.J.” Pickel Jr.;

her former husband,
Randy (Diann) Pickel, Dubuque, IA;

and her siblings,
Mike Berwanger,
Frank (Julie) Berwanger,
Deb (Dave) Pinhollow,
Kim Berwanger,
Julie Ward,
Mary Kearney,
Gary Sires
and Linda Smith.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Charles “Chuck” Berwanger and Sandy Woolridge.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Bonita Pickel Family.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com.

Thomas W. Howes

Thomas W. “Tucker” Howes 74, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, December 14th at Mercy One in Dubuque with his family at his side after a courageous month-long battle with COVID.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, December 18, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a funeral service will be at 6:00 p.m. with Deacon Bill Biver officiating. Following the service military honors will be accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Please be patient and aware of the limitations on occupancy for the visitation and remember to wear your mask and practice social distancing. The service will be livestreamed on the funeral home Facebook Page.

Tucker was born on April 11th, 1946 in Dubuque, son of Lloyd and Mary Vivian (Conroy) Howes.   He attended Dubuque Senior High School. He served in the US Army from 1967 to 1969 and was a Vietnam Veteran.  He married Linda Lou Viertel on August 9th, 1967.

Most of his working years were spent at Dubuque Packing Company. His later years were occupied with jobs at Dubuque Greyhound Park & Casino and Dubuque Community Schools as a bus driver and attendant.

Tucker spent many years playing fast-pitch softball as a catcher who didn’t wear shin guards and had many scars to prove it. Later, he enjoyed playing in multiple golf leagues and tournaments, mostly at Birchwood Country Club. Tucker loved the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Iowa State Cyclones, and participating in various fantasy sports leagues. Many summers were spent with family and friends camping and fishing at Bailey’s Ford Campground in Manchester, Iowa.

Tucker is survived by his wife, Linda of 53 years, son Kevin (Sabrina) Howes of Nora Springs, IA, daughter Kim (Jamie) Ubersox of Hazel Green, WI. Fourteen grandchildren: Kristopher (Abigail Hayes) Howes of Lawler, Iowa, Max, Zach, Will & Mya Howes of Nora Springs, Iowa, Nate (Catrinia Fagan) Kennicker of Hazel Green, Wisconsin, Nick Kennicker of Platteville, Wisconsin, Jake Ubersox of Hazel Green, Wisconsin, JayJay Onyeukwu of Dubuque, Iowa, Bruno Onyeukwu of Boulder, Colorado, Dino Onyeukwu of Phoenix, Arizona, Jillian Brown of Beloit, Wisconsin, Brandi (Robert) Miller of Benton, Wisconsin, Cheyanne Ubersox of Muscoda, Wisconsin and 4 great-grandchildren Bradley Hayes of Lawler, Iowa, Bentley and Trinity Miller of Benton, Wisconsin, and Elijah Onyeukwu of Dubuque, Iowa. Also surviving are his brother William Howes of East Dubuque, IL and sister, Roxanne (Ron) Bahl of Dubuque, his mother-in-law Lou Viertel, and in-laws: Jake Welu, Doris Howes, Tom (Carolyn) Viertel, and Sue (Butch) Korman. In addition, he is survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Robert Howes; his sister Beverly (Howes) Welu; and father-in-law Merle Viertel.

In lieu of flowers, a Tucker Howes Memorial Fund has been established and gifts can be mailed to Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003.

The family would like to offer their heart-felt gratitude to the dedicated nurses and doctors on the 3rd floor and ICU of Mercy One Dubuque for their compassionate and empathetic care and support.

Henry R. Peppmeier

Henry R. Peppmeier, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly at his home on Monday, December 14, 2020.  To celebrate Henry’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Friday, December 18, 2020, at Summit Congregational UCC, 2885 JFK Road.  Due to COVID-19 concerns the number of people inside the building will be limited, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices.  To honor Henry’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Friday at Summit Congregational UCC, with Pastor Karen Candee officiating.  The service will be available to watch on Summit Worship YouTube via the Church’s website at www.summitucc.org.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family with arrangements.

Henry was born on March 3, 1935, in Spencer, Iowa, son of Amos and Mary Iva (Warren) Peppmeier.

Henry was born and raised in Spencer, Iowa, where he graduated from Spencer High School in 1953.  After school, he went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army, and his patriotism was proudly on display throughout his home.  He was united in marriage to Carrie Loudermilk on September 24, 1960, in Cherry Dale, Virginia.  The couple was thrilled to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary earlier this year.  Henry was a hard worker and devoted 30 years to the John Deere Dubuque Works, until his well deserved retirement in 1994.  He was a member of the U.A.W. Retirees, a member of the former Faith United Methodist Church on Jackson Street, and a current member of Summit Congregational UCC.  In his free time, Henry liked to get outside and do some fishing with family and friends on the Turkey River.  He also enjoyed looking for treasures metal detecting, or staying home and reading Louis L’Amore books and watching movies.  Henry was a very patient and mild mannered man, an excellent role model for his family.  He never took himself too seriously and loved to aggravate his family and grandkids with his countless stories.  We are deeply saddened at losing Henry, especially so close to Christmas, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now resting in peace, free of the health challenges he has faced these past months.

Those left to cherish Henry’s memory include

his loving wife,
Carrie Peppmeier, Dubuque, IA;

his 2 sons,
Daniel (Lori) Peppmeier, Commanche, IA
and Timothy (Shelli) Peppmeier, Peosta, IA;

2 grandsons,
Ryan and Chad Peppmeier;

2 granddaughters,
Molly and Miranda Peppmeier;

his siblings,
Mary June (Leo) Lang, Omaha, NE
and Dale Peppmeier, Iola, KS;

and his in-laws,
Shirley Peppmeier, Des Moines, IA,
Ruby Loudermilk, Lawrenceville, IL,
Jerry (Barbara) Loudermilk, Lawrenceville, IL
and Sherman “Sherm” (Sherry) Loudermilk, Oaktown, IN.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; a son Mark Peppmeier; his siblings, Lucille (Donald) Hunt, Ella Mae (Kenneth) Faline, Harold (Shirley) Peppmeier and Paul Peppmeier; and his in-laws, Roy Loudermilk, Wilmer (Mary Ruth) Loudermilk, Phillip (Sherian) Loudermilk and Linda (Robert) Porter.

Henry’s family would liked to thank all of their extended family and friends for their loving support and care.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Henry Peppmeier Family.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com.

Germaine G. Goedken

Germaine G. Goedken, 94, of Dubuque died Sunday, December 13, 2020 at Ennoble Manor. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Anthony’s Church, Dubuque, where visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, masks and social distancing will be required. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Earlville.

Germaine was born November 21, 1926 in Earlville, Iowa, daughter of Andrew and Dorothy (Kelchen) Sellner. On September 14, 1948, she married Gilbert V. Goedken at St. Joseph’s Church, Earlville. He preceded her in death on December 22, 2013.
She farmed all of her life and lived in Earville until 1980, when she moved to Dubuque. After moving to Dubuque, she worked as head baker at Bishop’s Restaurant for several years to follow.

She was a member of St. Anthony’s Church and enjoyed sewing and Crocheting.

She is survived by three children, Lori (Fernando) Mejia of Dubuque, David Goedken of Dubuque and Annette (Phil) Goedken Wilson of South Range, Wisconsin; eight grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

She is also survived by two siblings, Delores Burkle and David (Carol) Sellner.

She was also preceded in death by a daughter, Sheryl Goedken; a son, Dennis Goedken; and six siblings.
The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Leota M. Kircher

Leota M. “Lode” Kircher, 91, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 9, 2020 at Bethany Home. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, there will be a private Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 19 at the Church of the Resurrection that will be live streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Leota was born October 10, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa to her parents, Leland and Bernadette (Grotkin) Kircher. After earning her diploma from the Immaculate Conception Academy, she went on to work for the Dubuque Packing Company for over 40 years, wrapping up her professional career at the University of Dubuque. In her free time, Leota was a member of Holy Ghost parish and Resurrection church.

From the day she was born, Leota dedicated her efforts to making life better for others. Her greatest joys in life were caring for the people she loved and finding ways to make others smile. A kind and gentle soul, Leota spread a lightness and comfort to all those she met with her honesty and lovely sense of humor. Whether it was caring for her nieces and nephews, sick friends and their parents, or other family in need, Leota made a difference in more lives than one can count.

Though she had no biological children of her own, Leota eagerly cared and advocated for her nieces and nephews whenever given the chance. Never missing a birthday, sporting event or special occasion, she had a way of making every individual feel special. From childhood into adulthood her nieces and nephews looked to her for guidance, a laugh or shoulder to cry on, and she filled these roles and more with grace. All those in her life felt safe and loved, and knew she was one to count on any day or night. What a blessing it is to be known and loved by Leota Kircher.

Leota is survived by her beloved sister Mary Frances (Robert) Lewis and brother in law Wayne “Fritz” Conrad, as well as many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly. She is also survived by her canine companion, Pringles, who loved and will miss her dearly.

She is preceded in death by her parents Bernadette (Grotkin) and Leland Kircher, her sisters Helen (Robert) Schroeder, Kathleen (Albert) Greenwald and Arlene Conrad. Also preceding her in death are nieces and nephews Karen Schroeder, Steven Schroeder and Christopher Anderson, nephews-in-law Chris Simmons and Jerry Coble, and her beloved friend Eloise Kehrli.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Stephen’s Food Pantry, Dubuque Food Pantry and the Red Basket Project who desperately need our help at this time.

Daniel J. Rigdon

Daniel Joseph (Dan) Rigdon, 65, of Galena, IL, passed away at 3:06 p.m. Sunday, December 13, 2020 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

Private family services will be held Thursday, December 17 at Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL. A public graveside service will be in Pilot Knob Cemetery, rural Galena at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Dan was born on September 12, 1955, in Dubuque IA, the eldest of 6 children to Richard (Dick) and Jeanette (Goldhagen) Rigdon. Dan graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1974 and attended Loras College in Dubuque IA. While a 4 year starter for the Duhawks he was known as the “Gentle Giant” and went on to earn Division III – 2nd Team All American Honors.

Dan was employed at Kelly Springfield in Freeport, IL until his retirement in 2010. He was also a major contributor to the family business, J&D Sporting Goods and Marine in Galena, IL.

He was extremely proud of his nieces and nephews. Whether it was in the gym, the stadium or the theater, he loved to attend their events and cheer them on. His godchildren were always spoiled with generous and thoughtful gifts.

Dan is survived by his siblings, Jim (Sharon) of Galena, IL, Ann (Jim Zeal) of Marion, IA, Jon (Lisa) of East Dubuque, IL and Ken (Lynn) of Dubuque, IA. Along with nieces and nephews Lindsy (Tim Vincent), Tim, Troy, Ryan, Ashley (Dylan Stierman), Kaley (Matt Burgmeier), Zachary, Jackson Rigdon and Jeff (Jodi), Jacob (Michelle) and Andrew (Katy) Zeal, as well as 12 great nieces and nephews.

Waiting to greet Dan are his parents, grandparents and his brother Tim.

Dan’s family would like to thank the staff at Bell Tower Assisted Living, East Dubuque, IL and MercyOne for their caring attention to Dan.

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

Marjorie J. (Mulligan) Lorenz

Marjorie Julia (Mulligan) Lorenz, age 92, left her earthly home on Sunday, December 13, 2020, to enter eternal life.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Friday, December 18, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Dubuque, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page.  Rev. Thomas McDermott will officiate. Masks and social distancing are required. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Mickey was born on August 16, 1928 in Dubuque, Iowa. She was the 8th of 11 children born to James and Lena Mulligan. She was the last Mulligan standing, a title she did not want.

All of her life before marriage was spent on Mt. Loretta Street, right behind St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Dubuque. She attended St. Columbkille school from beginning through graduation. At an early age she developed a strong Catholic faith and love for Jesus with a special devotion to his mother Mary and the rosary.  She went on to become a registered nurse and graduated from Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Dubuque.

She married the love of her life, Raymond F. Lorenz on February 4, 1950 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church in Dubuque. Mickey and Ray went on to raise 8 children and 1 angel. Their married life took them to live in Madison, WI, Mt. Horeb, WI, and Foley, AL, but her heart was always in Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her beloved Raymond on July 21, 2009, and a special son, Richard Anthony on March 27, 1964. In addition, she mourned the passing of her parents, as well as all of her brothers and sisters and their spouses, and her grandson Ryan Lorenz.

She leaves behind, to mourn her passing and celebrate her life, her remaining 8 children and their spouses, Susan (Knute), Nancy (Robert), Alan (Linda), David (Faye), Raymond Jr., Edward (Rhonda), James (Sandi), and Julie (Conrad); her 13 grandchildren, Michael, Jessica, Joseph, Mary, Erin, Sarah, Danny, Elizabeth, Erik, Kathryn, Sydney, Alexander, Zachary, and Meaghan; and 5 great grandchildren, Kevin, Alexis, Savanna, Emma, and Roger; and many nieces and nephews. She is further survived by her special sister-in-law Anna Mae Bradley and many nieces and nephews.

A special thank you to the staff of Inglehaven Assisted Living in Mt. Horeb for the compassionate care they gave Mickey as she struggled the last few years with dementia. To Flo, Kristen and Agrace Hospice Care, for the gentle loving care given to Mickey in her final weeks at home.  Your kindness will always be remembered.

Memorials can be sent to Agrace Hospice Care of Madison WI or Mt. Calvary Cemetery Statue Restoration Fund in Mickey’s name.

Rest in peace mom.