Obituaries Archive

Steve Ingles

Steve Ingles, 51, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, January 17, at the University of Iowa Hospital from natural causes.
Due to COVID-19, a private family celebration of Steve’s life will be held at a later date. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Steve was born February 24, 1969 in Dubuque, the son of Earl and Joan (Grant) Ingles. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School with the class of 1987, and went on to earn his degree in Electronics Engineering Technology from Hamilton Technical College in Davenport. Steve was hired right out of school by Motorola in Schaumburg, Illinois, where he worked as a Senior Software Engineer for 24 years. While working full-time at Motorola and helping raise his daughter, Steve earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Roosevelt University in Schaumburg.
Steve married Jenny Axtell on April 4, 1998 in Dubuque. While still working at Motorola, Steve and Jenny moved back to Dubuque in 2002 to be closer to family. Steve commuted weekly for the next 12 years. In 2014, Steve accepted a position with PBS Systems in Dubuque as a Tech Support Analyst.

Steve loved being outdoors, and enjoyed camping with family and friends. He was always fixing something, from cars to computers to electrical, there was nothing Steve couldn’t fix. Steve was always willing to help others and lend a hand when needed. He was often referred to as “Scuba Steve” and was a proud member of the elite group of Axtell in-laws, affectionally known as “the outlaws”.

Steve is survived by his wife, Jenny; his daughter, Emily; his father-in-law, Ray Axtell; his siblings-in-law, Tim (Gina) Axtell, Ron (Michele) Axtell, and Patti (Dean) Millius, all of Dubuque, and Bob (Julie) Axtell of Mount Vernon, IA; his uncle, Terry (Gail) Grant of Guttenberg, IA; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his mother-in-law Mary Jane Axtell.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family for later establishment of a memorial fund in Steve’s name.

Steve’s family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all their family, friends, and co-workers for their loving care of Jenny and Emily during this difficult time. They would also like to thank the doctors and nurses at the University of Iowa SNICU for their professional and compassionate care of Steve and his family.

Richard W. Strickland

Richard W. “Dick” Strickland, age 71, of Sherrill, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on January 15, 2021, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Dick’s life, a private family service is being held, with a Celebration of Life being scheduled at a later date.

The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dick’s family.

Dick was born on October 18, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Ruben Aster and Betty M. (Furry) Strickland.  Dick grew up with a strong work ethic and an even stronger devotion to family and friends.  After graduation, Dick enlisted with the U.S. Navy Construction Battalions “SeaBees” to honorably serve his country during the Vietnam War.  Upon completing his tour, Dick returned home to begin his civilian life and earnestly invested his time and talents in the maintenance department at Sunnycrest for over 35 years until he finally retired in 2011.  He continued to be a proud member of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) throughout the remainder of his life.  Dick had met his soul-mate, Linda Sheehan in 2003, and the two have been a united and positive force in the world around them ever since.  Dick was definitely a “Jack of all trades” and always continued to sharpen his skills with countless projects around the house, as well as with friends.  His relentless drive kept his hands from ever becoming needlessly idle and thankfully now many tangible and intangible memories still exist today which will help to keep Dick’s spirit alive and well in the daily lives of all who knew and loved him.  We are beyond heartbroken that Dick has thrown his last ringer at the horseshoe pit, started his final campfire to keep warm an abundance of family and friends, and baited his last hook while searching for the next big catch, but we know that this battle with cancer was simply not going to allow Dick to ante up one more time at the table.   We will miss all of the love for life which Dick shared so generously with all who would gather near him, but we trust that the Lord will surely be gracious enough to grant Dick the peace he so desired until we meet again.  Thank you, Dick, for always being true to yourself and may the wonderful memories we gained along the way remind us to remember that our own words, thoughts, and actions will also one day become our legacy as well.  We will miss you dearly, love you always, and we are forever grateful that the Lord shared you with us as long as He did.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dick include,

his loving wife,
Linda Sheehan, Sherrill, Iowa;

his children,
Adam Strickland, Cloquet, Minnesota,
Jeremy (Sarah O’Conner) Burkart, LaCrosse, Wisconsin,
Corey Youtzy, Dubuque, Iowa,
Kristy Youtzy-Moore, Peosta, Iowa,
Jamie (Dee) Schmitz, Dubuque, Iowa,
Jesse (Heather) Schmitz, Sherrill, Iowa,
and Jenni (Rob) Block, Potosi, Wisconsin;

his grandchildren, Lizzie Strickland, Ethan O’Conner, Symonne Burkart, Lochlaun Burkart, Logan Moore, Kaidan Moore, Ashton Moore, Ariana Moore, Alex Anthoney, Mia Schmitz, Abby Schmitz, Clara Schmitz, Liam Block, and Lana Block;

his siblings,
Patti (Danny) Mael, Kansas City, Missouri,
Donna (Robert) Allen-Strickland, Dubuque, Iowa,
and David (Isabelle) Strickland, Virginia Beach, Virginia;

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

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; his step-mother, Betty Eudaley; and his brother, Tommy Strickland;

In lieu of flowers, memorials and other expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Dick’s family.

Dick’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Dick, and his family.  Also, a very special thank you to Donna and Jenni for all of the extra love and support they have provided throughout our difficult journey with Dick.

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

Jerry L. Adams Sr.

Jerry Lee Adams Sr., 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on January 15, 2021 at home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 21, 2021 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where military honors will be accorded at 6:00 p.m. by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Jerry was born on August 28, 1937 in Baxter Springs, KS the son of Arthur and Ina Mae (Morton) Adams. He attended Cuba City High School in Cuba City, WI and graduated from Kirkwood Community College. He served in the Air Force from 1954 to 1960 and received his honorable discharge.

In 1955 he married Joan Anita Boldt in Cuba City, WI and she preceded him in death.

Jerry owned and operated Adams Family Dental Lab and later retired from the City of Punta Gorda, FL. Jerry was a family man and was always there for his family; he was the best grandfather anyone could ask for.

He is survived by his two sons Jerry L. Adams Jr. and Eric (Dawn) Adams; two daughters Dee (Kent) Carr and Ina Mae (Robert) Henson; his brother Leslie Adams along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Joan; his son Allen “Bob” Adams; his daughter Angie Schmidt; grandson Jacob Adams; and two brothers Jesse and Shawn Adams.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Hospice of Dubuque.

James W. Austin

James W. “Jim” Austin, 80, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died Sunday, January 17, 2021, at Meriter Hospital, Madison, Wisconsin of COVID-19. Throughout his illness, Jim was very concerned about passing the virus to someone else, so his family will hold services at a later date. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Jim was born on December 31, 1940, in Grant County, Wisconsin, the son of Orville and Janice (Witzig) Austin. He married Donna Kuhl on October 12, 1963 at St. George’s Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Jim was retired from John Deere Tractor Works in Dubuque, Iowa. For the past 25 years, Jim and Donna built and operated Trails End Cabins in Hatfield, Wisconsin. Jim enjoyed being outdoors and being at the cabin. He loved hunting, fishing, road trips, and spending time with his family. Jim was a simple man who enjoyed all aspects of life.

Survivors include his wife, Donna; four sons, Mike (Diane) Austin, Cross Plains, WI, Duane (Amy) Austin, New Glarus, WI, Tim Austin, Ridgeway, WI, and Brian (Ann Marie) Austin, Oregon, WI; a sister, Phyllis (Jerry) Cook, Platteville; four grandchildren, Cody Austin, Katey (Adam) Rausch, Theresa Austin, and Briana Austin; and two special great-grandchildren, Lilly and Nora Rausch.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a very special nephew, Ray Kuhl, who was like a son.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Meriter Hospital.

Memorials may be sent to the funeral home.

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

Joseph M. Washburn

Joseph Michael Washburn, 82, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, IA.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, Jan 21, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.  Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, facemasks are required along with social distancing, and no more that (10) people are allowed in the funeral home at one time.

Joe was born on July 6, 1938 at Springfield, IL, the son of Richard and Joanne                                          Washburn. On November 30, 1974 he was united in marriage to Patricia Runde at St. Francis de Sales Church in Hazel Green, WI.  She preceded him in death on September 28, 1988. Joe honorably served his country with the U. S. Marines.

Joe loved music, fishing, time spent with his family and grandchildren, and his beloved dogs.  He was the leader of the Joey Wayne & Waylon’s Outlaws band.

Surviving are his four children, Dani (Christina) Kelly of Georgia, Shannon (Dale) Richardson, Staci (fiancé Josh Okey) Washburn, and Cory McVay; his companion Cathy McVay all of Dubuque; 7 grandchildren; and his brother Harry Washburn of Champaign, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Patricia.

Sister Mary Rosanne Rottinghaus

Sister Mary Rosanne Rottinghaus, PBVM, 87, died on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Sisters of the Presentation Motherhouse (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

Private visitation and funeral services will be held on January 19, 2021, in Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Sister Mary Rosanne, daughter of Joseph and Catherine (Gudenkauf), was born Rose Marie Rottinghaus on February 19, 1933, in Dougherty, Iowa.  She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Charles City, Iowa, on September 8, 1951, and professed her perpetual vows on June 10, 1957.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Loras College and served as music teacher and parish liturgist in Algona, Cedar Falls, Clare, Key West, Dubuque, Fairbank, Humboldt, Marion and Whittemore, all in Iowa, and in Timber Lake, South Dakota. She was also a pastoral associate in Osage, Iowa.  Reflecting on her years of ministry, she said, “I found each of these areas very satisfying. People were so supportive and grateful.”

Sister Rosanne retired to Mount Loretto in 2000, where she appreciated living a more contemplative life and spending time with her siblings (Sisters Michael (2007) and Anthony (2014)).  The three sisters kept the Mount Loretto dining room decorated for the seasons and celebrations.  Sister Rosanne also appreciated her community sisters, especially the elderly and ailing. She celebrated her 60^th Jubilee in 2011. Sister Rosanne valued prayer and community service and had a special gift for music.

Surviving are her brother Joseph (Delores), sisters-in-law Theresa (Raymond) Rottinghaus and Dixie (James) Rottinghaus, many beloved nieces and nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation, with whom she shared her life for 69 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Winifred (John) Merfeld, Mary Catherine (Robert) Clark, Sister Mary Michael (Henrietta) Rottinghaus, and Sister Mary Anthony (Frances) Rottinghaus and her brothers Anthony “Bud”, Raymond, Raphael, and James.

The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Kathy Kelley

Kathy “Rose” Kelley, 71, of Dubuque passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 in the comfort of her home surrounded by family following a courageous battle with cancer.

Kathy was born February 1, 1949 in Dubuque, IA the daughter of Mary and LeRoy Wolfe.  Kathy, a graduate of Wahlert High School, worked at John Deer for 33 years until retirement in 2001.  Known for her kind heart and warm smile, Kathy brought joy to the lives of everyone around her even as she battled for her own.

Time with her family was most precious to her, sharing an unbreakable bond with her sisters, a tenacious love for her children, and an overwhelming affection for her grandchild Brooks, that lifted the spirit of any onlooker.  An avid gardener, Kathy had a green thumb, her backyard garden was an oasis for any visitor during an Iowa summer.  She loved to express her creativity by crafting, sewing, and doll making, alongside likeminded friends while enjoying a glass of wine.  She had an adventurous spirit traveling with her sisters and daughter throughout the US and Europe, and often reminisced of driving her Mach 1 Fastback Mustang.

Kathy took solace in her Catholic faith, especially in the Holy Virgin, and her charitable gifting was without question.

She will be dearly remembered by her children; Keith (Maria) Kelley and Kristy (Mike) Banwarth; her grandchild Brooks Banwarth; siblings Virginia Lewis, John (Susie) Wolfe, Mary Fitzgerald, Janet (Tim) Fitzgerald, Bill and Tom Wolfe; brother-in-law John Marshall and the many nieces and nephews who adored her.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Jim Wolfe, Mike Wolfe, Sharon Marshall, and Aileen Murphy; brothers-in-law Bob Lewis and Steve Fitzgerald; nephew Sean Murphy; and adored pets Owi, Casper, and Whitney.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held at a later date.  Online condolences may be left for the family at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Jean A. George

Jean A. (Gasper) George, age 79, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 11, 2021, at her home.  To celebrate Jean’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Jean was born on October 10, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Pete and Marcella (Sahm) Gasper.

Jean was a proud life long resident of Dubuque.  She was united in marriage to Eldon George on June 27, 1964, at Holy Ghost Church.  They were truly blessed with 56 years of marriage, and 2 children together.  Jean was a hard worker who was employed in the sewing department at Flexsteel Industries for 27 years until her well earned retirement in 1996.  She was a former member of St. Mary’s Church, the Women of the Moose, the DAV Women’s Auxiliary and a U.I.U. #1861 Union Member.  In her free time, she was an avid Bingo player and occasionally headed out to the casino to try her luck with the penny slot machines.  She also liked getting together with her friends at Oak Park Place to play cards.  Family was no doubt the most important aspect of Jean’s life.  She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Jean was a wonderful woman who enjoyed life and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Jean’s memory include

her husband,
Eldon George, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Roxane (Charlie) Sisler, Dubuque, IA
and Kevin (Joyce) George, Verona, WI;

her 5 grandchildren,
Nick (Kari) Sisler, Brandon Sisler, Amanda (Kyle) Bergfeld, Kirstin George and Jordan (Karoline) George;

her 6 great-grandchildren,
Owen, Cameron, Beatrice, Mia, Mason and Kya;

and her siblings,
Theresa (Floyd) Kuntz,
Mary George,
Jane Smothers
and John “Jack” Gasper, all of Dubuque, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Shirley Gasper,
Dorothy Degenhardt,
Lavone (Jim) Haxmeier,
Charlene Dunwoody,
Lois George
and Jiamjit George Donovan;

and her brother-in-law,
Milton “Ogger” (Mary Ellen) George.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Matthew Gasper; her sisters-in-law, Margaret (Chester) Budd, Idel (Dallas) Bartlett and Carol George; and her brothers-in-law, Merlin George, Marvin Smothers, Jim Degenhardt, Dick Dunwoody, Wilfred George, Edwin “Butch” (Georgia) George, Darryl George and Robert George.

Jean’s family would like to thank all of the 1st Responders from the Dubuque Police and Fire Departments for their assistance and kindness.

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

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

Mary E. Sullivan

Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Sullivan, 96, of Scottsdale, AZ and formerly of Dubuque passed away peacefully January 11, 2021 in Scottsdale.

She was born on August 2, 1924 in Bernard, Iowa the daughter of Louis and Kathryn (Meehan) Moriarty. She married John W. Sullivan on November 21, 1946 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on Sept. 29, 2012.

She was a homemaker and a full-time mom most of her life, and a member of the Church of the Nativity and the Rosary and Guild Society. She loved to bake and played golf in the Ladies Day league at Lacoma golf course.

Surviving are her three children John (Barbara) Sullivan of Bolivar, OH, Diane Sullivan of Overland Park, KS and Colleen (Steve) Hook of Scottsdale, AZ and four grandchildren Morgan, Meredith, Mackenzie and Christina.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Carol; three sisters, Mary Moriarty, Rita Roussel and Bernadine Grevas; and three brothers, Jack, Ray and Jim Moriarty.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held and announced at a later date. Her burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Betty’s family would like to thank the staff of Tuscan Place especially Claudia, Valerie, Mary, Michelle and Adelina for their wonderful care and compassion.

George F. Stappert, Jr.

George F. “Bob” Stappert Jr., 74, of Potosi, Wisconsin, passed away on January 12th, 2021 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital in Dubuque. As per George’s wishes, no services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

George was born on March 6th, 1946 in Exeter, England the son of George Sr. and Freda (Sandercock) Stappert. He married Mary Ann Behncke on December 28th, 1963 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. George served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1963 until 1967. He was a Radio Man stationed at the Cinpac Fleet.

After leaving the Navy, George worked different jobs before starting at John Deere. He started at Deere’s in 1969 and retired in 2003 after 34 years. After being retired a few years, he got restless and got a job as a driver for Woodward Communications, a position he held for 14 years.

George loved to fish, especially with Joe at Apple Canyon. He enjoyed deer hunting and was able to continue to hunt in his later years with his son and grandson by his side. George loved to ride his Trike and take side by side rides.

He is survived by his Wife, Mary Ann; his Son, Roger (Michelle) Stappert, of Potosi, and their children, Derek Eggers, Kerrigan (Dominic) Pagliaro, Taryn and Gunnar Stappert. Derek’s children, Desirea, Caleigh and Connor; Son-in-law, Sam Willett, of Peosta, and his children Brianna and Justin (Mary Ann); A great granddaughter, Dylan; his mother-in-law, Dorothy Behncke; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Eileen Markus and Roger Stappert; a daughter, Sheri Willett, and Father-in-law, Leonard Behncke.

Mary Ann and Roger would like to thank the nursing staff in the ICU and 5 North at Finley Hospital.

Laura K. Paar

Laura K. Paar, 56, of Dubuque died Monday, January 11, 2021.  Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. that will be live streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Facebook page. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, social distancing and masks will be required.

Laura was born September 24, 1964, daughter of Dennis and Karen (Kelley) Paar.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Company,  Ron’s five points, Eagles, and Road Ranger.

She enjoyed her pitbull, Daisy Mae, who was always by her side.

She is survived by her parents, Dennis and Karen Paar; four children, Kevin (Samantha Fries) Billmeyer, Joshua Paar, Krisstal (Jacob Shaffer) Jackson, and Destini Kohl; three grandchildren, Saria, Kairei and  Laklynn,  and one due in February, Raelyn.

She is also survived by a brother, Eric (Sara) Paar; and three nephews and a niece.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, Quality Medical, and Dr. Braden Powers and his staff for their care.

Paula F. Freund

Paula F. Freund, age 55, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed from our hands into the waiting arms of her Savior on January 10, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. Although there will be no public services at this time, a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Paula’s family.

Paula was born on July 21, 1965 in Dubuque, Iowa to Richard and Barbara (Cupps) Freund. She received her education from Holy Ghost Grade School, Wahlert High School, and studied at Loras College. Paula devoted 21 years of her working career to Flexsteel Industries as a Training Coordinator/ Subject Matter Expert, and a Sales Expeditor.

Paula was a loving mother to her son, Devante. She equally enjoyed playing with her grandkids, Evan and Elijah. She looked forward to spending time out with her many friends and her monthly Bunco card games. Furthermore, Paula treasured her cat Tig Tig and dog Luda.

Spring of 2018 Paula was diagnosed with ALS Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Throughout her courageous battle, she always kept a positive attitude and had a kind and gentle spirit. Paula most appreciated the fundraising efforts and personal support she received from her Flexsteel family. In keeping with their kindness, they frequently took her to dinner and visited her at home. Additionally, her friends and alumni from Wahlert High School, initiated a fundraiser for ALS research for which she was very grateful.

In the last months of Paula’s life, her son Devante, along with the help of Emily, lovingly cared for her in their home. Her family also assisted with her care, and her lifelong friend Diane.

Although she described herself as an ALS warrior (fighting everyday) now she is our ALS Angel and we are left with the love she shared and many wonderful memories. We will miss her beautiful smile and tender heart more than anything!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Paula include:

her son,
Devante (Emily) Kidd, East Dubuque, Illinois;

her grandchildren,
Evan and Elijah, East Dubuque, Illinois;

her 5 siblings,
Marie (Georg) Moeller, East Dubuque, Illinois,
Cheryl (Larry) Ladwig, Fall River, Wisconsin,
Alan (Margie) Freund, Dubuque, Iowa,
Eric (Angie) Freund, East Dubuque, Illinois,
and Andrea (Bobby) Daniels, Waterloo, Iowa;

her great-aunt,
Joan Neuses, Dubuque, Iowa;

her very special friend,
Diane Ahmann-Timot;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents.

In accordance with Paula’s giving spirit, her body was donated to help ALS research. Memorial donations may be made in her name to IamALS.org or ProjectALS.org

Leonard E. Witt

Leonard Earl Witt, 95 of Peosta, Iowa passed away peacefully at 5:28 p.m. on Sunday, January 10, 2021 at Dell Seton Hospital in Austin, Texas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2021 at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of service. Burial will follow at Rockdale United Methodist Cemetery with military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Please remember to wear your mask, if you are unable to attend a live stream of the funeral service will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Leonard was born November 6, 1925, in LeMars, Iowa, the son of Julius Reinhold Witt and Anna Marie (Moeller) Witt. He grew up in LeMars and received his education from LeMars High School, graduating in 1943. Leonard served in the United States Navy for 2 years and became a storekeeper 2nd class.

After his service with the Navy, he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Westmar College in LeMars. During this time Leonard married Marilou Harding on August 28, 1955 and they started their family. He continued to teach Industrial Education for 5 years in the public school system. Along with teaching, he created and organized the Vocational Home Building Program for the state of Iowa. The Home Building Program is credited with training countless high school seniors across the state of Iowa in the skills of residential home building. Leonard and Marilou then moved to Dubuque, built a beautiful home together and raised their four children. He continued managing the Home Building Program and teaching Industrial Education at Dubuque Senior High School for the next 30 years. During that time, he obtained his Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Platteville, Wisconsin.

Upon the passing of Marilou, Leonard later married Elaine Fitzpatrick on March 21, 1981 and they started their lives together with their blended families in Peosta, Iowa. Regrettably, Leonard was widowed a second time as Elaine passed away December 23, 2020.

Leonard enjoyed many pursuits in his long life. He loved good food, gardening, raising and showing Red Carneau and fancy Roller Pigeons and woodworking. Leonard volunteered his time and talent at multiple organizations including the Elks Lodge, Key West Catholic Church and the Dubuque Arboretum. He loved to square dance, travel and watch wildlife on the farm. We will miss his zest for life and his loving spirit.

Leonard was a member of Epsilon Pi Tau and the Kappa Delta Pi Fraternities and was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Elks for 29 years. He was also a longtime member of the Key West Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa.

Surviving: Son Carey Witt and his wife Dori of Austin, Tx, and their children; Son Jamie and his wife Trisha of Nashville, TN and their children; Daughter Holly Allen and her husband Chris of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, and their children; Stepson Jim Fitzpatrick and his wife Gail of LeSeur, MN and their children; Stepdaughter Janice Aiels of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and her children; Stepson Douglas Fitzpatrick and his wife Cindy of Peosta, Iowa and their children; Stepdaughter Luann Langel and her husband Rodney of Urbandale, Iowa and their children; and stepdaughter Kathy West and her husband Jeffery of Dubuque, Iowa and their children. Leonard also has 25 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Gone before him is his oldest son Dana Witt as well as Leonard’s siblings, Donald Witt, Mildred Linquist and Wally Witt, wives – Marilou and Elaine.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque who cared unceasingly for his bride.

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

David R. Steckel

David R. Steckel, 76 of Sherrill passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with funeral services beginning at 6:00 p.m. with Fr. Noah Diehm officiating. Military Honors will follow by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

David was born on December 6, 1944 in Dubuque the son of Vincent and Irene (Plein) Steckel. He Graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1963 and joined the United States Marine Corps in 1964, serving during the Vietnam War until 1967. On August 23, 1969 he married Ann Haxmeier at Saint Joseph Key West Catholic Church and together they shared 51 years together. He worked for Dubuque John Deere Tractor Works from 1970 until his retirement in 2000 and was a member of the UAW Local #94.

Dave loved the outdoors, especially camping, hunting and fishing on the Mississippi. On any given Saturday, you could catch Hurricane Dave making “one more pass” in Hurricane Chute.

He is survived by his wife Ann; two children, Jeffrey (Tina) Steckel, and Sara (Rob) Dimmer; four grandchildren Justin (Nicole) Steckel, Tristin Steckel, Kayci Dimmer, Erin Dimmer and a soon to arrive great grandson, all of Dubuque; two sisters Donna (Richard) Cox of Peoria, his twin sister Dianne (Steve) Pins and a brother Jack Steckel both of Dubuque: along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Vincent “Bud”, Donald, Richard and Bruce.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Luther Manor and to Saint Croix Hospice along with the volunteer’s of the Sherrill Fire and EMS for all their care and kindness they showed for Dave and his family.

Holly M. (Griffin) Amunson

Holly M. (Griffin) Amunson, age 46, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:50 p.m., on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at her home with her loving family at her side, after a short battle with cancer. To celebrate Holly’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Family and friends may also visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, before going to Mt. Olivet Cemetery for committal services. Due to COVID-19 concerns, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. The family also appreciates you honoring their privacy by refraining from taking photos or videos of the celebration of her life.

Holly was born on April 29, 1974, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Tim and Rita (Connolly) Griffin.

Holly grew up in Dickeyville, Wisconsin and graduated from Cuba City High School, Class of 1992. She would eventually move to Dubuque and go to work as a merchandising manager with TJ Maxx. Holly truly loved her job and valued all of the friendships she made while working there. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Brent Amunson, on August 27, 2016, at the Farley Memorial Hall. Holly was very generous with her time and talents, volunteering and participating in several charitable events throughout the years. In her free time, she enjoyed watching her beloved Dallas Cowboys play football, rooting on her favorite NASCAR drivers and listening to country music. Holly was a wonderful daughter, wife, mom and friend. She had an energetic spirit and definitely lit up the room every time she walked into it. Holly will be deeply missed and will live on in our hearts forever.

Those left to cherish Holly’s memory include

her husband,
Brent Amunson, Dubuque, IA;

her son,
Brady Amunson, Dubuque, IA;

her mother,
Rita Griffin, Dubuque, IA;

her father,
Tim Griffin, Epworth, IA;

her step-mother,
Kathy Griffin, Epworth, IA;

her step-sister, Sara and her step-brother, Damian, both of Dubuque, IA;

her grandmother,
Betty Griffin, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Gage (Megan) Griffin, Platteville, WI;

a special niece,
Carolyn Rutherford, Dubuque, IA;

a special aunt,
Caroline Griffin, Philadelphia, TN;

her in-laws,
Keith and Jo Amunson, Dyersville, IA;

her sister-in-law,
Kristi Amunson, Massachusetts;

a very special friend who was like a 2nd mom to Holly,
Janann Kieler;

and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Holly’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of the MercyOne Cancer Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their support and compassionate care of Holly and her entire family.

The family will thankfully receive your support through floral arrangements (especially in her favorite color, PINK), phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Holly’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Holly Amunson Family.

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