Obituaries Archive

Gerald J. Steil

Gerald J. “Jerry” Steil, 91, LaMotte, IA, passed away Monday, April 5, 2021 at Manor Care in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, IA with Rev. James Chappell officiating. If you are unable to attend, a live stream will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Burial will follow at St. Theresa’s Cemetery.

Visitation for family and friends will be held Monday, April 12th from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. At 7:00 p.m. active and retired members of the Dubuque Fire Department will meet to perform the retirement of gear ceremony and the Four Fives.

The family requests that social distancing be followed, and masks be worn during the services.

Gerald John Steil was born July 24, 1929 in Asbury, IA to Clem and Mathilda (Behnke) Steil. At the age of 13, Jerry took on the responsibility of helping his mother care for his younger siblings upon the death of his father.

He married Gloria (Ernster) on August 22, 1953 at St Philomena Church in Asbury. Jerry and Gloria were married for 66 years until her death on August 1, 2020.

They lived in Asbury and he owned his own company, Steil Well Drilling, until 1965 when he became a firefighter for the City of Dubuque. In 1970, Jerry and Gloria bought a farm in LaMotte, IA and Jerry was both farmer and firefighter until he retired from the fire department in 1995. Jerry loved farming and only recently fully retired from it. He enjoyed spending time with his family especially picnics in the summer and fishing for the big catfish in his neighbor’s pond.

Jerry is survived by his 5 sons, Terry (Sue) of Key West, IA, Kevin (Karen) of LaMotte, IA, Dion of Benton, Wis., Keenan (Sue) and Darren (Jenny) both of Dubuque and his 8 grandchildren, Aaron (Aaron) Steil, Becky (Pedro) Crispin de Jesus, Sara (Rob) Goedken, Andrew (Abbie) Steil, Derek (Angel), Ryan and Emma Steil, Audra Steil and Jeremie and Carissa Oberbroeckling as well as 9 great grandchildren.

He is survived by his siblings Alvina Murphy, Jim (Jean) Steil, Vern (Elaine) Steil, Mary Ann Derouin and sister-in-law Jude Steil. He is also survived by brothers-in-law Deryl “Buddy” Ernster and Harry, Jr “Sonny” Ernster and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Evie (Albert) Beecher and Eleanor (Don) Lombardi, brothers Lenny Steil and Norm (Minnie) Steil, brothers-in-law Virgil Murphy and Don Derouin and sisters-in-law Gayelle (Roy) Blum and Margaret Ernster.

Jerry’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Manor Care (a special thank you to Sara, his granddaughter) and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care of our father and grandfather.

In lieu of flowers, a Gerald Steil Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com and memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque, IA 52003

Marilyn E. Hayes

Marilyn E. Hayes, 92, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, April 7, 2021, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marilyn will be 10:00 AM Monday, April 12, 2021, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor Thomas E. Toale as the Celebrant. Visitation will be before mass from 9:00 AM until 10:00 AM. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements.  If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Marilyn’s family. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Marilyn was born May 3, 1928, in Cassville, WI, the daughter of Harry and Lucille Brinkman Adrian. On May 7, 1949, she married Kenneth C. Hayes at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died October 23, 2008.

Marilyn and her husband owned and operated Ken Hayes Shoe & Repair.

She enjoyed dancing, eating out in restaurants, reading, walking, watching Fox News, and betting on dogs at the Greyhound Park.

Survivors include one son, Steven Hayes of Davenport; one daughter, Deborah Goar of Dubuque; and one granddaughter, Melissa (Christopher) Peck.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Mark Goar, one brother, Lawrence Adrian, and a brother in infancy.

The family thanks Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for taking special care of Marilyn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center, and St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Marilyn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Joseph E. Donahue

Joseph E. “Joe” Donahue, age 88, of Dubuque, completed his earthly journey on April 6, 2021, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital.  To honor Joe’s life, his graveside service will be held on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1111 Davis Street in Dubuque, where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joe’s family.

Joe was born on October 22, 1932, in Waukon Junction, Iowa, a son to Edward and Violet (Sawvell) Donahue.  Joe obtained his primary education in the Harper Valley Schools and spent his early years working at home and on neighboring farms until he went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War.  Upon returning home, Joe was blessed to meet his soul-mate, Elizabeth “Betty” Arthofer, and the two were united in marriage on January 28, 1956, at Holy Ghost Church.  Joe committed his working years for his family to John Deere, where he continually displayed the strong work ethic which he had developed from a young age.  In his free-time, Joe was best known for his coon hunting skills and dogs.  Always working to bring the best out of himself and his dogs, Joe still displays rows of trophies to help revisit those wonderful days gone by.  Joe also enjoyed stock car racing and spend many years following his son from racetrack to racetrack to cheer him on.  But, honestly, Joe is best known for being a devoted husband and father.  Loyal, kind, and generous are words which also easily and accurately describe our dear Joe.  We will miss his gentle spirit, grateful attitude, and effortless role-modeling he perfected so well.  Thank you, Joe, for simply being the best man you could be and for showing us that anything in this life is possible if we just put a little effort in ourselves.  We hope that your heavenly reunion has been the most joyful event you’ve ever experienced, and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joe include,

his son,
Roger Donahue;

his daughter-in-law,
Debbie Freking;

his grandchildren,
Trevor Donahue, Tanner Donahue, Mike McDonald, and Jennifer Donahue;

his great-grandchildren,
Jordan Donahue and Jayden Donahue;

his siblings,
Jim Donahue,
Jerry Donahue,
Marjorie (James) Trewnick,
Monica (James) Edgar,
Margaret (John) Elin,
Madonna Walsh,
Maureen (David) Graeber,
and Marilyn (Lyle) Kenney;

a special nephew, Dale;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Betty Donahue; 2 sons, Jim Donahue and Mike Donahue; and his siblings, Edward “Buzzy” Donahue, John Donahue, Mary (Merlin) Troendle, and Marcella (John) Palade.

Joe’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital, the E.R. Department, and St. Croix Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care of Joe, and his family.  We would also like to extend a most sincere thank you to our dear friend and neighbor, Jerome, for all of his care and support throughout these difficult days.  May God bless all of you for your generosity and kindness.

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

Thomas T. Tierney

Thomas T. Tierney, 74, of Dubuque, died Thursday, April 8, 2021, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Private Graveside Services will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at 10:00 am at Linwood Cemetery Chapel. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6 Honor Guard. We encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Thomas’s family.

Thomas was born October 30, 1946, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Paul and Eliner (Thomas) Tierney.
Thomas graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964 and then attended the University of Dubuque.

Thomas was a Christian, a Patriot and a U.S. Air Force Veteran.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.
Condolences sent to the family by visiting Thomas’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Donald J. Offermann

Donald J. Offermann, 82, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, died peacefully in his home, surrounded by his daughters and son-in-law, on April 6, 2021, of metastatic cancer.

A rosary service will be held at 4:00 pm, Friday, April 9, 2021 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Don’s family. An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021 at the Cathedral of St. Raphael’s from 9:00 am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am with Msgr. Thomas Toale as the Celebrant and Msgr. Karl Glovik and Fr. Paul Otting as Co-Celebrants. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. Don will be cremated and buried next to his wife, Hazel, in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Cemetery in Dyersville at a later date. 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.

Donald was born June 8, 1938, in Earlville, IA, the son of Art and Kathryn (Quint) Offermann.

He married Hazel Maiers on November 25, 1965 at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Dyersville, Iowa, she preceded him in death on September 5, 1998.

Don attended St. Joseph’s Grade School in Earlville and graduated from Xavier High School, Dyersville, in 1956. He graduated from Loras College in 1960. He attended Mt. St. Bernard Seminary, Dubuque, for two years. He taught at Xavier Grade School, Dyersville from 1962 to 1970. He got his Masters in Guidance Counseling from Creighton University, Omaha, Nebraska during Summers. He became a Counselor at Western Dubuque High School, Epworth, Iowa from 1970 until his retirement in 2000.

Don was a member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral Parish and World Wide Marriage Encounter. He and his wife Hazel, were the Sponsor Couple for engaged couples. He was director of CCD in Epworth and Dyersville. He was a member of Iowa State Education Association and The Iowa School Counselor Association. He was a 50 year member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters. Don became a staunch member of AA in June 2011.

Don enjoyed fishing and traveling after he retired. He enjoyed many cruises and vacations with his close friends of over 50 years: Father Fred Fangmann, Father Ken Gehling, Father Paul Otting, and Msgr. Karl Glovik, along with many card games of SMILE on your neighbor. He looked forward to his grandchildren spending a week individually for GrandpaCamp in Dubuque. While residing in Minnesota, Don enjoyed being near his children and grandchildren, and often attended their sporting and school events. He enjoyed the friendship of many of his fellow Seasons residents and staff. Don particularly enjoyed exercise classes, walking club and Wii bowling. In his final days, Don was incredibly touched by the messages he received from friends, colleagues and former students. Don was pleased that he had the opportunity to touch so many lives.

Survivors include two daughters, Ann Marie Offermann and her husband, Boyd Brown of Apple Valley, MN, and Mary Kay Offermann of Eagan, MN; Grandchildren, Oliver Brown, Elliot Brown, Amelia Brown, Gabrielle Offermann; a brother, Laverne (Mary Jane) Offermann; brother-in-law, Marv (Vicki) Maiers; and nieces and nephews and their families.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Art and Kathryn Offermann; his wife, Hazel Offermann; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Elmer and Mary Jane Maiers; and sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Al Their.

The family would like to thank the residents and staff of Ecumen Seasons and the staff of Ecumen Hospice for their incredible love and care of Don.

Marilyn B. Spates

Marilyn B. Spates, 88, of Dubuque, passed away April 5th, 2021 at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Des Moines, Iowa due to declining health.

Friends may greet the family from 4:00-7:00PM on Sunday, April 11th, 2021 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. A prayer service will take place at 7:00PM.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30AM Monday, April 12th, 2021 at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page.  Masks are required at the funeral home and church.  Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Marilyn was born July 16th, 1932 in Key West, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Catherine Meyer. Even as her memory faded in recent years, she always spoke fondly of her years on the farm and singing and making music with relatives and neighbors as a favorite family pastime.  She was educated at St. Joseph in Key West and St. Columbkille High School in Dubuque.

She married Thomas V. Spates on July 11th, 1964 at Church of the Nativity. He preceded her in death on February 9th, 2016.

Most of Marilyn’s career was spent working at Loras College where she developed and directed the Word Processing Center.  Her many years of service at Loras provided her children with college educations.

Marilyn is survived by a daughter, Julie (Mark) Merfeld of Des Moines and their children, Emily, Matthew, Thomas, and Michael; a son, Stephen (Daniel) Spates M.D. of New York City and their children, Thomas “T.J.” and Matthew; sister Loretta Meyer, in-laws Carol Becker, Frank and Kathy Langkamp and Michael and Linda Spates all of the Dubuque area as well as nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents; siblings Harold and Francis “Bud” Meyer and Sister Mary Madonna Meyer of the Presentation Sisters, in-laws Dorothy Meyer, Norma Meyer and Marvin Becker as well as several nieces and nephews.

Marilyn was a devout Catholic throughout all of her life.  She will be remembered most as a kind and loving person.  She exemplified to her children and grandchildren the values we strive to carry forward.  Perhaps her greatest joy in life was spending time with her six grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Bishop Drumm Guild to honor the excellent care provided to our mother in the final stage of her life.

Leslie Blitgen II

Leslie “Nick” Blitgen II, 72, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, April 07, 2021 at Mercy One in Dubuque.  Celebration of Life with burial in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery will be at a later date.

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

Leslie was born June 8, 198, the son of Leslie “Mooty” and Eugenia “Babe” (O’Neil) Blitgen.  He was a past member of the Bellevue Volunteer Fire Department and Bellevue JC’s.  Nick enjoyed bowling, an avid reader, muscle cars, and going to the casino.   He worked for the Milwaukee Railroad, which became the Canadian Railroad until his retirement.  Nick had a special place in his heart for his nephew, Tom whom he enjoyed spending time with bowling. Nick will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his siblings, Mary Muhlenhaupt , William “Bill” Blitgen, Joe (Kathy) Blitgen, , Vivian “Ditty” Quinn, and Jean “GiGi” (Bob) Reeg; nieces and nephews, Michael, Lynn, Lesley, Jessica, Gina, Tom, Matt, Scott, Bridget, Lisa, and Katie; and numerous other extended relatives.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother in-law, Dave Muhlenhaupt.

Condolences may be mail to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home 100 N. 6th St.  Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Leslie “Nick” Blitgen Family.

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

Rev. John J. O’Connor

Rev. John James O’Connor, 88, a priest of the Archdiocese of Dubuque passed away Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 10, 2021 at Wahlert Catholic High School with Most Rev. Michael Jackels officiating and with Rev. Msgr. Lyle Wilgenbusch as homilist. Visitation for Father John will be from 4:00 pm. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, April 9, 2021 at Wahlert Catholic High School, 2005 Kane Street where there will be a wake service at 4:00 p.m. with Fr. Anthony Kruse officiating. Visitation will also be after 9:00 a.m. until time of services Saturday. Burial will follow the Mass at Saint John Cemetery, Placid. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is in charge of arrangements. Please remember to wear your mask and if you are unable to attend, a live stream of the funeral Mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Father was born on March 21, 1933 in Rockford, Iowa the son of Everett and Mary Bertha (Merfeld) O’Connor. He graduated from Loras College in 1954 with a B.A. in History and later attended Mount Saint Bernard Seminary. He was ordained on February 1, 1958 at Saint Raphael Cathedral by Archbishop Leo Benz, D.D. Fr. O’Connor served as assistant pastor at Saint Anthony Church in Dubuque from 1958 until 1963 and at Immaculate Conception in Cedar Rapids from 1963 until 1968.

In 1968 he joined the faculty of Wahlert High School. He served there for 16 years as the Dean of Boys and later as assistant principal. He left a great legacy at Wahlert that many alumni remember yet today.

From 1984 to 1988 he served as the Archdiocesan Director of Development for Catholic Education. During that time, he also served as pastor of Saint John Placid from 1985 until 1988. In 1988 he was named pastor of Saint Joseph Key West and served there until 1996 when he became pastor of Saint Boniface in New Vienna and Saints Peter and Paul in Petersburg. In 2018 those parishes joined the Spires of Faith Cluster and Fr. John served them as a sacramental priest until his retirement on July 10, 2018.

Fr. John was a priest of many talents. From his simple upbringing in Dougherty working on the farm in his early years, he grew a love of the outdoors and a talent for working with his hands. These talents served him well later in life, and he was not afraid to tackle any project around Wahlert or at the parishes he served. He also enjoyed working in the garden, and his many fishing and hunting trips. He helped those in need, both spiritually and financially throughout his life.

He is survived by two sisters-in-law, Marilyn O’Connor and Jan O’Connor; nieces, nephews, and cousins along with his brother priests.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Leo, Donald and Edward and a sister-in-law, Ruth.

Memorials may be given to Wahlert Catholic High School.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Michael V. Demmer

Michael “Mike” V. Demmer, 59, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 6, 2021, at his home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm. Masks are required, and we ask that you please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Mike’s family. The Memorial Service for Michael will be 1:00 pm Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Deacon Steve Whiteman officiating. The service will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mike was born February 1, 1962, in Dubuque, the son of Vernon “Vern” A. and Mary Lee (Bertling) Demmer. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1980. On May 7, 2008, he married Kim Mayfield in Roswell, NM.

Mike was a semi truck driver and loved traveling and exploring the United States. He enjoyed riding his Honda Goldwing and Harley Sporster, raising big cats and exotic animals and cooking.

Survivors include his wife, Kim Demmer of Dubuque; his father,Vern Demmer of Dubuque; one brother, Jeff (Angie) Demmer of Dubuque; three sisters, Beth “Betsy” (Gary) Oelerich, Janis (Steve) Kopp and Dina (Dave) Muntz all of Dubuque and many loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Lee Demmer on February 14, 2010 and two nieces.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions to the Michael Demmer Memorial Fund.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements.
A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Michael’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Arthur E. Mentz

Arthur “Artie” Edward Mentz, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away very unexpectedly on April 3, 2021.

Artie was born May 19, 1943 to Rosemary J (Hedley) and Arthur G. Mentz. He earned the nickname “Elvis” at age 13, started performing in bands at local venues, age 15-16, and was able to turn his passion and love of entertaining into a lifelong career, performing all over the United States. Joining him on this adventure would be his partner and soul mate, whom he would vow to “Kiss Each Morning For a Million Years” Elly Mae (Mueller) Mentz, married July 16th, 1968. They would have 2 children, (Lori & Aron) and together their family would make over 30 trips to Memphis for the annual Elvis Week celebration and candlelight vigil, where he would form many lasting friendships, with people from all over the world.  Artie’s entire family took part in his performances. His wife made his jumpsuits and scarves, his daughter joined the band as his right hand, and his son would often join him singing on stage.

Over the years, he earned many accolades – including induction into the Iowa Rock’N’Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, and induction to the International Elvis Tribute Artist Hall of Fame in 2019. Artie was the only ETA (Elvis Tribute Artist) member ever to meet Elvis’ father, Vernon Presley. The photograph of their meeting was one of Artie’s most cherished memories. He graced the covers of numerous magazines and newspapers, including USA Weekend magazine in 1987, and appeared on the Oprah show in 1988 and 1990. ( Once, with his son, Aron Elvis ) Artie was crucial in the making of three Elvis documentaries – Elvis: His Memory Lives On, Rock & Roll Disciples, and Mondo Elvis.  He was ranked one of the top 10 Elvis impersonators by Rolling Stone magazine in 1988, and was also featured in an MTV music video. Honestly, there are just too many to mention…

Although Elvis was his most influential idol, he was also an avid Gene Simmons (KISS) fan.  He was very proud of the band he formed called “Artie & the Pink Catillacs”, a band his daughter would join, and together they would help it become one of the best rock and roll bands in the area. He played in this band until 2012, when he would somewhat retire, but still keep busy as an honorary judge for Ronnie Craig’s Elvis Explosion Contest, in LaCrosse, WI. But you didn’t just get music when you went to see them, Artie had a knack for history as well, for every song they performed, he could tell you who recorded it, and what year, without hesitation.

And when he wasn’t performing, he loved to spend time with his family.  Not only did he love his music, he also loved cars. From his Corvettes, to his Lincolns, to his vans, or anything else that might come along – he always made sure it looked as if it just rolled off the showroom floor. Artie loved his fans as much as they loved him. He may have been known to many as “Dubuque’s Own Elvis”, but his most important titles were: Husband, Dad, and Bompa….The world may feel like it has lost an icon, but we have lost part of our world!

From the love of his life, “To everyone else, he was their Elvis. To me, he was my Artie.”

Artie was preceded in death by his father, Private Arthur George Mentz U.S.Army, his mother, Rosie, step-fathers Michael McDermott, all of Dubuque, and Harlan Friedman, of Luxemburg, IA, and brothers Patrick McDermott and Michael McDermott.

He is survived by his wife and the love of his life, Elly, daughter, Lori Mentz and son, Aron (Kelsey) Mentz, sisters Denice (Roger) Bergfeld, Diane Conley, and Debbie (Larry) Lyons. He was “Bompa” to 5 grandchildren, a nickname given to him by the oldest – Benita (Owen) Holmes, Daniel Mentz, Thomas Mentz, Isabella Mentz, Violet Mentz, and great-grandchildren Joel Schroeder and Hayden Holmes.

To honor Artie’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, May 19, 2021, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road in Dubuque, with Rev. Phil Gibbs officiating.  The family ask that please no flowers and requests privacy during this time.  As Elvis would say, ” TcB” (taking care of business)

Online condolences for Artie’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Herbert A. Havertape

Herbert Aloysius Havertape, 82, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away at 2:48 a.m. Saturday, April 3, 2021 at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center with his loving wife by his side.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at Sinsinawa, WI, with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. There will be no public visitation. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Herb was born on October 21, 1938 at home in Hazel Green Twp. of Grant County, WI, the son of Ollie and Olefa (Neis) Havertape. He was united in marriage to Marjorie Goldhagen on July 12, 1958 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at Sinsinawa, WI.

Herb farmed most of his life, and was a member of St. Joseph’s Church and its Holy Name Society. He was a graduate of Loras Academy, class of 1956. Herb was an avid Wisconsin Badgers, Bucks, and Packers fan. Herb loved his time spent with family most and enjoyed the card games with his buddies (especially when he won.)

Surviving is his wife Margie; three sons, Rick, Terry (Dana), and Scott (Linda) Havertape all of Hazel Green; four grandchildren, Joshua, Lindsey, Jeremy and Jacob; two great-grandchildren Violet and Finn, his siblings, Arla Mae Bussan of Galena, IL, Robert (Joan) Havertape of Dubuque, and Michael Havertape of Florida.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ollie and Olefa, and son, Michael Robert Havertape on August 15, 2003.

The family would like to thank Hazel Green Rescue Squad.

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

Carl N. Weimerskirch

Carl N. Weimerskirch, 94, of Dubuque County, passed away unexpectedly on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021 on his farmstead with his entire family present.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 9, 2021 at St. Catherine Church in Dubuque, with Fr. David Ambrosy officiating. Burial will be in St. Catherine Cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of the Bellevue American Legion Post 273. If you are unable to attend a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, 2021 and again on Friday from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. at St. Catherine Church. Please remember to wear your face mask and practice social distancing for the visitation and funeral.

Carl was born April 17, 1926 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Nicholas Weimerskirch and Olga (Rosenquist) Weimerskirch. He married Joann Knockel on April 29, 1952 at St. Catherine Church and became a lifelong member of the church where he volunteered his time towards many positions. To many, Carl became known as an icon in the parish as he was the “go to” guy for anything needing to be fixed at church and the school. This generosity overflowed into the community.

After Carl graduated from high school in 1944, he served in the U.S. Navy, during World War II, where he attended Purdue University. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Cowpens. Carl was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 704. He worked for Eichman’s Electric and Westphal Electric. He became a member of the American Legion and VFW.

Carl was also the Mosalem Township Clerk for 52 years; and a member of the Key West Fire Department. He was a founding and lifetime member of the Key West Sportsman Club, where he held positions as director, president, and treasurer.

Carl volunteered time for over 20 years to the Dubuque Historical Society doing needed maintenance and electrical work at the Arboretum as well as at the National River Museum and Aquarium where among many tasks he helped build the Blacksmith Shop and a scale model of the Julia Belle Swain paddleboat. Carl was extremely proud of was his trip to Washington D.C. on the first Honor Flight from Dubuque.

Carl’s greatest joy was the wonderful life he had with his wife. Carl loved all of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much.

Surviving are his wife, Joann; his children, Carla (Lora Keith) Weimerskirch, Des Moines; Donna Healy, Dubuque; Steve (Beth) Weimerskirch, Bellevue; Kim Weinschenk, Dubuque; Scott (Kathy) Weimerskirch, Bellevue; 10 grandchildren, Amanda Healy, Bob Healy, Eric (Grace) Weimerskirch, Trent (Tammi) Weimerskirch, Tyler (Liz) Weimerskirch, Chad (Lindsay) Weinschenk, Kurt (Lisa) Weinschenk, Ben (Molly) Weinschenk, Alex and Katerina Weimerskirch; 13 great-grandchildren, Vivian, Sawyer, Emma, Jack, Waylon, Cash, Harrison, Louis, Mara, Miles, Johnny, David, Billy; his sister-in-law, Carol Gaber, and many nieces and nephews.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents; his father and mother-in-law, William and Kathryn Knockel; his grandson, Nicholas “Weinner” Weimerskirch; brother and sisters-in-law, Herbert (Evie) Knockel, Lucille (Donald) Murphy, Dorothy (Earl) Hilkin, Vernon Knockel, Lois (Harlan) Thielen, Kathleen (Irvin) Nachtman, and William Gaber.

Carl’s family would like to thank the Key West Fire Department first responders as well as the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital for all of their kindness and their compassionate and professional care offered to Carl. In lieu of flowers, a Carl N. Weimerskirch Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

John E. Datisman

John E. Datisman, 66, of Durango, died Friday, April 2, 2021.  A memorial service will be held 3 pm Wednesday at Sherrill United Methodist Church where friends may call Wednesday from 1 to 2:45. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, masks and social distancing will be required.  Interment will be in the church cemetery.

John was born April 25, 1954 in Dubuque, son of Sydney and Dorothy (Pugh) Datisman.  He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 1972.  On October 13, 1973, he married Lori Meyer at Sherrill United Methodist Church.

He worked as a welder for 30 years at John Deere, then owned and operated Lori’s Auction Service for many years.  He later drove a school bus for the Dubuque Community School District.

He was a member of Sherrill United Methodist Church.

John loved his family and was thrilled to have six generations of the family live on the same property where he was raised near Durango.   His favorite moments were spent with his children and grandchildren.  He enjoyed the opportunity to spend time in his timber with his family.  He could fix anything with a zip tie, duct tape, or bungee cords.  If his children or grandchildren ever mentioned needing anything, he would say, “Wait a minute, before you buy that, let me go and check the barn”.

John had a love of music.  He loved picking with friends, playing at Farmer’s Market, and singing for local events and charities throughout the community.  For the past 8 years, he was very proud and honored to be a member of the band Sounds of Nashville, where he played bass, guitar, and enjoyed singing his beloved country classics.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Datisman; children, Jessica (Sam) Weiland, Dawn (Tom) March and John Sydney Datisman, all of Durango; grandchildren, Emma and Lloyd Weiland; Hayden and Mason March, also of Durango.

He was also survived by his siblings, Marjorie Henkels, Jane Datisman, and Cheri Siegert and many nieces, nephews and Godchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a niece, Cari Siegert.

Memorials may be made to the John Datisman Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelly, for all of their care.

Michael J. Powers

Michael J. “Buck” Powers, age 68, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on April 3, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Mike’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 7, 2021, at 4:00 p.m., at Steeple Square, 101 East 15^th Street in Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.  Family and friends of Mike’s may gather to visit from 2:00 until 4:00 p.m. at Steeple Square.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on April 6, 1952, in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Bill and Helen (Laughlin) Powers.  He grew up surrounded by family and friends and quickly developed his athletic skills which he would carry on throughout his life.  He played on many teams over the years, but his love for the feel of the catcher’s mitt on his hand never faded.  Mike’s love for the classroom also played an important role in his life.  He spent many years as a teacher, but eventually embraced the role of principal at St. Mary’s School in East Dubuque.  Mike sadly had to move into retirement after 23 years of committed service due to health issues.  Mike was an unshakable Hawkeye fan in his spare time, but whenever his Bears or Braves were playing, you could easily find him cheering them on as well.  But at the end of the day, Mike would admit that being a faithfully devoted family man was where his true happiness was found.  He always treasured the blessing of being a husband and father, and when the grandkids came into the picture, the joy he experienced was immeasurable.  It’s impossible to place into words the weight that sits on our hearts today with the realization the Mike has been called home now.  The legacy and memories which he leaves behind will hopefully help to heal the pain we feel, and we pray that he is resting peacefully in his Lord and Saviors arms until we meet again.  Thank you, Mike, for leading by example and for continually teaching all of those you cared about that life is a journey to be lived to the fullest.  Unfortunately, not always a smooth journey, but none the less, one worth taking.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his loving wife of 36 years,
Karla Powers, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 2 sons,
Christopher (Danielle Felderman) Powers, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Jonathan (Rachael Spurling) Powers, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 2 adored grandchildren,
Olivia Powers and Jayden Powers;

his siblings,
Jim (Patty) Powers, Dubuque, Iowa,
Kate (Dennis “Oscar”) Meyer, Dubuque, Iowa,
Kevin (Mary) Powers, Chicago, Illinois,
and Dennis (Martha) Powers, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tom Powers.

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

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

Martin H. Werner

Martin H. “Marty” Werner, 74, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 8:10 p.m. Thursday, April 1, 2021 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics,  surrounded by his family, following complications from a stroke.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 6, 2021 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League. The funeral Mass will be Live-Streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Facebook page.  Facemasks and social distancing will be required.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 5, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where there will be a parish scripture service at 2:45 p.m. and the East Dubuque Volunteer Fire Dept. will attend the wake at 6:00 p.m.

Marty was born on May 8, 1946 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Eugene and Frances (Backer) Werner.  He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 1964. Marty was united in marriage to Sherry Eigenberger on October 2, 1971 at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque.

He served in the U. S. Army, during the Vietnam War from 1966 – 1968 serving in the Armored Division at Ft. Hood, Texas and the Missle Unit in Germany. Marty was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works from 1971 – 2001 when he retired.  He was a member of U.A.W. Local # 94.  Marty previously worked for John Leibold’s gas station, and later operated Marty’s Auto Repair for 25 years behind his residence, which his brother John helped him construct.  Following retirement he worked for the TSA at the Dubuque Municipal Airport, was a board member for Jo-Carroll Energy for 14-years, serving in District # 1, a former member of the Jo Daviess County Board and was currently on the East Dubuque City Council. Marty was a retired member of the East Dubuque Volunteer Fire Dept.

He played pool league in East Dubuque, always was up for a good game of euchre with his brothers, he drove a race car at the Cordova, IL drag racing track, enjoyed watching stock car racing, and built two racing cars. Marty enjoyed attending the Thursday night car show in East Dubuque, where he displayed his classic GMC Sierra Grande Truck.  He took pride in his garden and was known for his tomatoes. Marty enjoyed riding on his John Deere Lawn Tractor and kept his lawn perfectly manicured. He recently purchased a fishing boat for him and his grandson, Zack.  He participated in football and basketball while at East Dubuque High School and was a loyal Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. With his love of life he checked something off his (bucket list) by skydiving at the age of 66 years old and was eager to do it again!

Marty worked tirelessly to see East Dubuque businesses grow and prosper.

Surviving is his wife Sherry; two daughters, Laurie (Tavis) Virtue and Kim (Tony) Walker both of Dubuque; five grandchildren, Zack, Lydia, Gideon, Kallie and Kira; one brother, Ron (Sue) Werner of Davenport, IA and a sister, Kathy Ousley of Dubuque, IA, numerous nieces and nephews; his in-laws, Mary (Rick) Donovan and Mary Jo Eigenberger both of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Frances, two brothers, John and Larry, and a sister, Mary Pat Hoffman.

Sherry, Laurie and Kim wish to thank the East Dubuque Area Ambulance, Mercy One E. R. staff, Air Care Helicopter Ambulance, and the E. R. staff and Neuro Surgical Team at the University of Iowa Hospital for the kind and compassionate care given to Marty and his family.

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