Obituaries Archive

Marguerite L. (Hilkin) Vyverberg

Marguerite L. (Hilkin) Vyverberg, 90, of Bethany Home, Dubuque, peacefully went to heaven on Thursday December 24, 2020 surrounded by her loving family.

A private family Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday December 30, 2020 at Saint Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. The service will be livestreamed on the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory Facebook page.

Peg was born on August 10, 1930 in Dubuque the daughter of John and Camille (O’Hea) Hilkin. She grew up in Dubuque attending Saint Columbkille Grade School and High School. She met the love of her life, Melvin Vyverberg, whom she married on April 9, 1952. He preceded her in death on September 5, 2015. Together they built their forever home on Oak Street where they raised their six children.

Peg’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends. She enjoyed cooking and was best known for her turkey and dressing, homemade cinnamon rolls, and breads. She enjoyed reading, music, Hallmark movies, celebrating holidays, and was always ready for a game of euchre.

She will always be remembered as a loving wife, sister, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and friend. Family was first and Peg’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren were the pride and joy of her life. Her legacy of religious faith, love of family, education and determination will live on through them. Her life, a precious gift, is one we will always treasure.

Left to honor her memory are her children and their families: daughter Barbara Beidler, her husband David, and their family Camy, Brad, Abby, and Carly Blackbourn: Kim and Travis Hauri; Kara and Anna Beidler. Son John Edward Vyverberg, his wife Julie and their daughter Emily Vyverberg and Connor Rucks. Daughter Debra Kass, and her husband Stan and their family, Nate, Katie and Braycen Kass, Dylan, Abriana, and Drake Berwanger: Caleb, Kari, Kylie, and Keegan Kass; Alex, Annie, Connor and Benjamin Kass and Grace McAllister; Mackenzie, Jason, Thomas Melvin, and Theodore Sertle. Son Richard Vyverberg, Joyce Wilson and their family Andrew, Jennifer, and Evelyn Wilson. Daughter Lauri Trannel, and her husband Jeff and their family Jordan and her fiancé Pat McCormick; Jaclyn, Andrew, and Baylor Ganshirt; and Erin Trannel. Daughter Lisa Zboril, and her husband David and their sons Tyler and Jacob. Her goddaughter, Judy Blasen.

Peg was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings, Mary Catherine Hilkin, Delbert Hilkin, Teresa Wagner, and Jerry O’Hea.

A Marguerite “Peg” Vyverberg memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Bethany Home for their loving and compassionate care over the last five years. A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their comfort and support during her last few days. And a special thanks to all who made “Gram cracker’s” 90 years a wonderful life.

Robert A. Current

Robert A. “Bob” Current, 74, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Thursday morning, December 24, 2020, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.
A graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held 11 A.M., Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa, with military honors. Visitation will be held from 4 to 6 P.M., Tuesday, December 29, 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.

Robert Allan Current was born on September 2, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa to Arlo L. and Winifred May (White) Current. He attended school in Baldwin and graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1966. Shortly thereafter he married Delores Ann Caes on September 24, 1966 in Baldwin, Iowa. He then served his country in the U.S. Army receiving an honorable discharge.

Upon returning home from serving his country, “Bob” worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa for 13 years and Red Jacket Pumps in Davenport for 18 years. He also farmed for the last 50 years in the Monmouth area until present.

“Bob” loved his family dearly and going to his grandchildrens’ sporting activities. He also loved his two dogs “Bode” and “Bear”. He was an avid fan of the the Green Bay Packers and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Additionally, he enjoyed hunting, taking his boat fishing, riding his ATV, going to the casino, having coffee with friends, rummage sales, playing cards and mowing the yard.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife Delores Current of Monmouth, IA; children, Brian (Tonya) Current of Maquoketa, IA, Gary (Stacy) Current of Monmouth, IA, Brenda Current of Greendale, WI, Sherry (Mike) Snyder of Maquoketa, IA, Kathy (Peter) Streets of Wyoming, IA, and Lora (Jack) Smith of Lost Nation, IA; a sister, Sharon (Randall) Edwards of Kahoka, MO; 12 grandchildren, Codey and Courtney Current, Kristin and Kaytlin Current, Tiffiny, Nicole and Justin Snyder, Alyssa and Brianna Streets, Austin, Alex and Alivia Smith; 3 great-grandchildren, Ryder and Keegan Campbell, and Cora Current.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Richard and Darwin Current, sisters Connie Willey and Joyce Houston, and a grandchild Kayla Current.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Robert A. “Bob” 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.

Wayne W. Wohlers

Wayne W. Wohlers, 80, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, December 27, 2020.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, December 31, 2020, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Derek Rosenstiel will officiate. Services will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. The family understands if you are unable to attend in person. Interment will be at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Wayne was born August 10, 1940 in Bellevue, IA, the son of Ralph and Lula (Wiegert) Wohlers. He graduated from Andrew High School. Wayne married Betty Anderson on August 20, 1966 in Sparta, WI. They adopted two wonderful children, Bill and Annette. He was employed with the Dubuque Packing Company for over 30 years, and later worked for Hawkeye Care Center.

Wayne served in the Army Reserves for six years, and for 20 years in the National Guard with the 1st Battalion 133rd. He was a member of the Bellevue American Legion Post 273.

Wayne loved to go fishing, hunting, and camping. He was an avid NASCAR fan, and he enjoyed helping his uncle Eldon on the farm. Wayne was a great talker who loved visiting with people. He loved being with his family, and will be sadly missed.

Wayne is survived by his wife, Betty, of Dubuque; his son Bill (Melissa) Wohlers, of Dubuque; his daughter Annette Wohlers, of Dubuque; his grandchildren, Stephanie (Greg) McDaniel of Grimes, IA, Drake Nie, Caiden Wohlers, and Brennen Wohlers, all of Dubuque; two great grandchildren, Mikayla and Elijah McDaniel, both of Grimes; his siblings, Don (Bev) Wohlers of Dubuque, Dale (Rita) Wohlers of Galena, IL, and Judi (Mike) Devine of DeWitt, IA; and his sisters-in-law, Karin Jandt and Janis Jensen, both of Sparta, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Ralph Wohlers Jr.; his sister Lynda Soenksen; two sisters-in-law Janet and Karen Wohlers; and two brothers-in-law Dugan Jensen and Ralph Jandt.

Memorials may be made to the family for later donation to Wayne’s favorite charities.

Jeanne L. Kieffer

Jeanne L. Kieffer, 87, of Dubuque, died Sunday, December 27th, 2020, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.
Private family services were held Tuesday, December 29, 2020, at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Jeanne was born in 1933, daughter of Clarence and Grace (Trude) Dirksen of Dubuque, Iowa. She resided in Dubuque all her life. She attended St. Anthony grade school and was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy. She was a member of St. Anthony Parish and Rosary Society, as well as the St. Jude Circle.

Jeanne was a stenographer at John Deere Dubuque Works in the 1950’s where she met Merle, and they were married in 1957. She served as a volunteer for many years at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center alongside her niece, Linda Wiskus, and enjoyed walking the halls seeing people she knew while delivering flowers and gifts. Jeanne had many close friends and enjoyed participating in card club and riding bikes. Jeanne was a loving and caring mother to her three sons. The highlight of her summers was when her grandchildren would stay with her for a week of fun which included swimming at the water park and miniature golfing.

Jeanne is survived by her children, Tom (Marty) Kieffer, Bob (Kathy) Kieffer, and Mike Kieffer; Four grandchildren, Ryan Kieffer, Allison (Drew) Combs, Abbie (Brendan) Howe, and Alyssa Kieffer; four great grandchildren, Evelyn, Audrey, and Caroline Combs, and Chase Howe.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Husband, Merle Kieffer; sisters, Betty Stanley and Lorrayne Oswald; and her brother, Clarence Dirksen Jr.

Jeanne’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the kind, loving, and caring staff (Jeanne’s “Honey Bunnies”) of Ennoble Manor, especially Michelle Coates, her special friend and patient advocate.

Donna M. Rupp

Donna Marie Rupp, age 79 passed away December 27, 2020 at the home of her son Kevin and his family in Maquoketa. The time spent with Donna this past week will forever be cherished.

A private family service with Pastor Neil Harrison officiating will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa on Saturday, January 2, 2021.

Donna was born in Galena, IL to Alta Mae and Edwin Durrstein on November 4, 1941.  Her father passed away when she was 18 years old. A few years later, her mother married Jim Manley.  He was a wonderful step-father to Donna and her younger sister Audrey, who was Donna’s best friend.

On January 21, 1961 Donna married Kenneth Rupp at St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Galena.

Ken and Donna enjoyed riding their Honda Goldwing motorcycle on vacation to Branson, Pike’s Peak in Colorado, Mount Rushmore, and Niagara Falls.  Among other destinations, these were a few of the sights they ventured to.  They had a passion for camping and spent many weekends from April through October at campgrounds throughout the tri-state area.  For many years their grandchildren looked forward to an “entire family campout” every summer.

Donna was very creative and loved to cross stitch, quilt, and make silk flower arrangements and money roses to give as special gifts.  She had a large collection of cardinal figurines, bells, carousel horses, state teaspoons, and New England Villages.

Donna and Ken owned Rupp Upholstery, later changing the name to Tri-State Upholstery located on N. Main, Maquoketa.  The couple was also custodians at First Lutheran Church for 25 years and took pride in the work they did, especially the lawn care.

Donna is lovingly survived by her husband, Ken, of nearly 60 years. Two Sons, Kevin (Mary) and Dwayne (Cathy), all of Maquoketa. Five grandchildren, Brandi (Jeromy) Howell, Brad (Megan), Trevyn, Trenae, and Trenessa (Joseph) Walker.  Six great-grandchildren, Tinsley, Tayden, Teagyn, Hunter, Paisley and MavRick.  She is also survived by one sister, Audrey (John) O’Rourke of Arkansas.

With incredible appreciation to Hospice of Jackson County for the care and compassion experienced in just one short week, Donna’s family requests memorials be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Marian A. Dayton

Marian A. (McClain) Dayton, 85, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 26, 2020 surrounded by her loving family at Swedish-American Hospital, Rockford, IL.

Marian was born in Bernard, IA on January 17, 1935 to Michael and Julia (Donovan) McClain.  Marian married Robert Dayton on July 17, 1967 in Galena, IL.  Marian was a homemaker and worked for Atwood Industries.  She loved spending time with all of her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids as well as her family and friends.

Marian is survived by her children, Timothy (Brenda) Dayton of Stockton, IL, Michael (Christine) Dayton of Rockford, IL, Scott (Lisa) Dayton of Shullsburg, WI and Dana (Steve) Stadel of Scales Mound, IL; grandchildren Justin (Rachel) Raab, Timothy Dayton, Jr, Tyler Dayton, Julia Dayton, Max Dayton, Jessica  Roesch, Brandon Roesch, Emily (Lucas) Doland and Brooke Stadel; great-grandchildren Joslyn Raab, Jaxon Heins, Ezra Doland and Jude Doland; sister Margaret Larson; sister’s-in-law Jean McClain, Rosie McClain and Joyce McClain.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and his parents William and Edna Dayton; brothers Louis McClain, Earl (Phyllis) McClain, Ralph McClain, Philip McClain; sisters Delores (John) Pake, Grace McClain, Jean (Edward) Allen, and Marie (Louie) Timp; brothers-in-law Bill (Lois) Dayton and Earl Larson; sisters-in-law Muriel (Babe) (Dale) Bahr, Ruth (Tony) Bein and Robert McClain.

There will be a private family service on Thursday, December 31, 2020 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Scales Mound, with Fr. Howard C. Barch, Jr. officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery. Due to the Covid-19 virus, masks and social distancing are required. The funeral mass will be live streamed on the Miller Funeral Home Group facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, a Marian A. Dayton memorial fund has been established.

The Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is serving the family.

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

Clarence Hird

Clarence “Jack” Hird, 100,  formerly of Farley and Riverbend Retirement Community in Cascade, Iowa was called home to God on Friday, December 25, 2020 at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, Iowa from complications of COVID 19.

Private services for Jack weree held on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating.  Lectors w4ere Shelly Conrad and Laura Dunn.  Placing of the pall was done by Ronald Hird, Carolyn Shaheen Robert Hird, Norman Hird, Elaine Hagge, Patricia Conrad, Jeanne Hopper, Kathleen Hines, Nancy Waight, John Hird and James Hird.  Services for Jack were live streamed on the St. Elizabeth Pastorate Facebook page. Burial was held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.  Anyone interested in sending memorials may send them to the Reiff Funeral Home, Attn. Clarence Hird Family, P.O. 99, Farley, Iowa   52046.

Casketbearers for Jack were Dylan Hird, Craig Hird, Vinay Tikka, Chad Conrad, Jeff Hird and Dorey Shaheen.

He was born August 21, 1920 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Walter J. and Marie G. (Koerner) Hird.  He attended Holy Ghost School.   At age 17 he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, building Backbone State Park.  While there, he met and fell in love with Lucille A. Whittle.  They married November 30, 1939, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque, Iowa.

He joined the Army during WWII as a paratrooper and was member of the 101^st Airborne Screaming Eagle Paratroopers.  He served during the Battle of the Bulge.  He served in England, France, Germany, Austria, Holland, and most memorably at Bastogne, Belgium.  He was a recipient of the Purple Heart and a Unit Citation for Valor.

Jack worked at Flexsteel for 42 years advancing to position of General Supervisor, and retired in 1982.  In addition, he gardened to feed his 11 children and was involved in many volunteer activities from PTA when his children were in school to being elected Delegate to the Older Iowan’s Legislature in Des Moines, Manor Care Senior Citizen of the Year and Volunteer of the Month, President of Dubuque Area Council on Aging and Friendly Neighbors of Farley, Bankston and Epworth, board member of Scenic Valley Advisory Council, Project Concern and the Older American Planning Committees.  He established the Senior Citizen Meal Sites of Farley and Epworth, setting up the weekly meal service with Lucille, and delivering meals to shut-ins.  He enjoyed volunteer work and found it extremely rewarding.

He also enjoyed time with family and friends and spent time traveling, fishing, and playing cards, especially euchre and poker.

He was a member of the St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa and the Farley American Legion Post #656.

He is survived by eleven children, Ronald Hird of Marion, Carolyn Shaheen of Cedar Rapids, Robert (Cheryl) Hird and Norman Hird of Dubuque, Elaine (Bob) Hagge of Potosi, WI, Patricia Conrad of Earlville, Jeanne (Michael) Hopper of Terre Haute, IN, Kathleen Hines of Benton, WI, Nancy (Daniel) Waight of Galesburg, IL, John Hird (Friend Denice Jackson) of Volga, IA, James (Yvette) Hird of San Antonio, TX; 23 grandchildren; 33 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren with another due shortly; a sister, Helen Fortney of Robbinsdale, MN.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Lucille Hird on October 11, 2008; 4 brothers, Arthur, Walter C., Raymond and Harold; 5 sisters, Lucille, Luella A., Juanita, Luella B., and Marie; two daughters-in-law, Sharian Hird and Annette Hird, three sons-in-law, Richard “Dick” Conrad, Edward Hines, and Terry Wolfe; twin granddaughters, Sheila and Annette Hird; granddaughter-in-law, Amy Hird.

We would like to thank Riverbend of Cascade and Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Paul for their care of our Dad and support of our family.

View Video Tribute and give online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Terrence Cornelius

Terrance “Terry” Cornelius, 72, of Andrew, Iowa passed away after a brief time at Finely Hospital on December 26. His wife, Kim, and their oldest daughter were by his side during his passing.

Terrance Arthur Cornelius was born on August 25, 1948 in Clinton, Iowa, to Arthur and Ortha (Koehlert) Cornelius. He graduated from Andrew School in 1964, starting a lifelong career in farming outside of Andrew. In 1973, he married Kim Streeter and together they raised 3 daughters. Over the years, in addition to farming, Terry drove semi for several trucking companies, hauling milk for Campbell’s Trucking out of Preston, IA; and grain for Bullock’s Inc. in Maquoketa, IA. In his spare time, he loved spending time with family, gator rides on the farm, surfing the internet for tractor and vehicle deals, and going for coffee in “the big city”.

He was a hardworking and loving husband, father and grandfather. Terry was often considered a quiet person by people that didn’t know him, but those that were close to him were often serenaded with a random song lyric or “Terry-ism”.

Terry is survived by his wife Kim, and daughters: Tracey (Patrick) Till of Andrew, IA, Trisha (Shawn) Pickett of Andrew, IA, and Tara (James McDonald) Cornelius of Cedar Rapids, IA. He also leaves behind his six grandchildren Kate (Dan) Keen, Jacob Till, Kylie, Rylie, Quintin and Lincoln Pickett; and granddogs Bella and Chester.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Due to the Covid Pandemic, a private family service will be held on Monday, January 4, 2021 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o the Terry A. Cornelius 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.

Karl E. Justmann

Karl Edward Justmann, a wonderful man who was born in his home at 1135 Iowa St. on December 16th 1936, Dubuque IA. He lived 84 years enjoying family, friends, and life. He died peacefully at The Finley Hospital on Christmas Day 2020

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic services will be private for the family and held Tuesday, December 29th at 11am at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home. The service will be live streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Facebook page.

Karl proudly served in the Marine Corps. Karl retired from John Deere after 32 years.. He was known to have said that the first five minutes of retirement were the hardest but it got easier after that. He was married over 60 years to his wife Marianne (Fallon). They enjoyed each other’s company and laughed every day. Their most happy times were spent with their three sons and their wives, Timothy (Sara), Marc (Mary), and Christopher (Sarah), including the beautiful families they had. Karl was most proud of his five grandchildren, Celeste, Andrew, Angela, Meghan, and Charlie. Karl was often heard telling jokes, wiggling his glasses, and pretending his thumb had disappeared clean off his hand to giggling grandkids. He also loved and cherished his nieces and nephews and othe family members: Brad Bigelow, Mark Jeffers (Debbie), Karen Smith (Dave), Erika Rowell (Doug), Alexia Yaklin (Frank), Kurt Justmann, Carol McErlean Levin (Mike), Bill McErlean (Sue), Joan McErlean & Gabby Justmann. Without forgetting all of the great nieces and nephews that always brought him great joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles & May (Latham) Justmann. His siblings, whom he loved dearly, C. Robert Justmann (Candy), Ginger Anderson, and Betty Bigelow (Bob). His brother and sister-in-law, Tom & Betty McErlean. His saddest day was the loss of his son Marc Justmann, whom he will now be happily reunited with.

We are grateful to all the staff at Hawkeye Care Center who graciously became Karl’s family outside of ours. Thanks to Dr. Cao and The Finley Hospital Staff for their care and compassion.

Mabel T. Schmitt

Mabel T. Schmitt, 92, of Galena, IL passed away Friday, December 25, 2020, at home surrounded by her loving family. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions a private funeral mass will be held Tuesday, December 29, 2020, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Galena. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is in charge of arrangements.

She was born July 18, 1928, in East Dubuque, IL the daughter of Edward and Catherine (Reimenapp) Ames. Mabel married Vincent S. Schmitt on April 29, 1948, in East Dubuque and he preceded her in death. She worked at Flexsteel and retired from Frommelt Industries, Dubuque. Mabel was blessed with 92 years of a fulfilling life, she enjoyed fun with family and friends playing cards and dancing. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend. Mabel had a great love for her family, the Lord, and her country. She was a member of the Galena VFW Auxiliary and St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

She is survived by her devoted children, Darlene (Terry) Leifker of Galena, David (Roxie) Schmitt of DeWitt, IA, Donnie (Doris) Schmitt of Galena, Jerry (Rita) Schmitt, of Coon Rapids, MN, Mary (Mike) Drapeau, of Bellevue, IA, Dawn (Dean) DeValk, of Princeton, MN, daughter in-law, Annette Schmitt of East Dubuque, her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Mabel was born the third of six children her surviving siblings, Marion (Harold) Fleege, Barbara (Virgil) Splinter, Rosie (Jim) Schulting and Fritz (Pat) Ames.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Steven, two grandsons, Jason, and Ryan Vincent Schmitt, her in laws, Marge (Allen) Beadle, Rita (Dick) Pillard, Melvin (Marion) Schmitt and Albert (Betty) Schmitt.

The family would like to share their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque especially Mariah for the wonderful care shown to our mother Mabel.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Anita E. Schepers

Anita E. Schepers, 100, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday morning, December 26, 2020 at Maquoketa Care Center.

A private family service will be held on Thursday, December 31, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery.  There is no public visitation.

Anita Ernestine Busch was born March 2, 1920 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to William and Marie Louise (Sieben) Busch.  The family moved to the Sieben family farm northwest of Lost Nation in the early 1930’s.  She graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1937 and Maquoketa Junior College in 1939.  She was a rural school teacher.  On August 22, 1954 she married Harold H. Schepers and they farmed in the Elwood area until they retired and moved to Maquoketa in 1987.

Anita was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, and the Maquoketa Garden Club.  She taught Sunday school and held various offices in the church.  She enjoyed sewing, gardening, and feeding the birds and squirrels.

Anita is survived by her children, Alice (Dennis) Mans of Maquoketa, IA, and Lyle (Nancy) Schepers of Lost Nation, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold, her parents, a sister Pauline, and her twin brother Arnold.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o the Anita E. Schepers 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.

Marigold L. Patters

Marigold L. “Goldie” Patters, 91, of Dubuque, died Friday, December 25, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM Sunday December 27, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road. 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 Marigold ‘s family.

The Funeral Service for Goldie will be 10:30 AM Monday, December 28, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Pastor Penelope Knutsen officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque next to her beloved husband. 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.

Goldie was born October 6, 1929, in Dubuque, the daughter of Kirtland and Pearl (Witter)  Robey. On July 26, 1947, she married Kelsey W. “Cal” Patters in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on December 30, 2006. They had five children, Karen (Joe) Rodasta, Ken (Judy) Patters, Kathy (Ron) Gorman and Kirt Patters, all of Dubuque, and Keith (Peggy) Patters, of Marion. She had 15 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, and many great great grandchildren.  She is also survived by her two brothers, Harlan (Dorothy) Robey and Leroy Robey; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Goldie was an amazing woman who was the heart and glue of her family. She inspired them all by going back to high school and then nursing school at the age of 44. She took an early retirement in 1986 so she and Cal could travel every winter for many years to Yuma, Arizona.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. She will be greatly missed by all. Her family meant the world to her, and she cherished every moment she spent with them. She loved a good game of dominos with the kids or grandkids, shopping, puzzles, and of course, her many trips to the Casino.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Cal; brother Stanley (Bernice) Robey; two sisters, Lila (Ed) Marshall, Adele (Bob) Knockel; and step grandson, Zach Samek.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center, especially Cookie and Ellen for all their love and care they gave mom.

“True was her heart, her actions kind, her life was a pattern to those left behind.”

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Goldie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Bobbi Alpers

Bobbi Alpers, a jurist who became the first female Chief Judge of a Judicial District in Iowa state history died Thursday, December 24, 2020 of complications of Alzheimer’s at her home in rural Jackson County.

Due to Covid-19 concerns there will be neither a visitation nor memorial service. A private burial will take place and in 2021 a celebration of Bobbi’s time on earth will be announced.

Bobbi’s family would like to acknowledge the extraordinary assistance and loving care offered by Hospice of Jackson County in her final days.

Born September 10, 1951 in Vinton, Iowa to Harold & Dorothy Alpers. Even as a child she exhibited a nurturing nature and extraordinary leadership skills, playing the role of schoolteacher to a classroom of two, her younger sister and brother.

Bobbi became expert at adapting to a continually shifting landscape, as her father transferred often for his job. Consequently she attended schools in Vinton, Manchester, Fort Dodge, Cresco and, finally, Maquoketa where she graduated with the Class of 1970.

Four years later she graduated magna cum laude from the University of Dubuque with a double major in English & French with a minor in history. In 2013 she was named an Alumna of Distinction at the university.

Bobbi taught middle school English in Forest City for a year before returning to school at the University of Iowa where she earned a Master’s Degree in English. She was offered a position as a high school English teacher in the Pleasant Valley School District, where she stayed until 1980, when a new career beckoned.

In 1983 she graduated from the University of Iowa Law School, and was immediately offered a position as a judicial law clerk in the 7^th Judicial District in Davenport, Iowa.

Eventually she worked as an Assistant County Attorney, before opening her own practice. She was chosen to be a Judicial Magistrate in Scott County and in 1990 was chosen by the governor to be a District Court Judge. At the time she was the only female judge in the five-county 7^th Judicial District.

In 2007 the Iowa Supreme Court chose her to be the Chief Judge of the District, the first female to become a Chief Judge of a district in the century-and-a-half of Iowa’s legal system. She was a terrific, empathetic, compassionate judge and was unsurpassed as a kind, thoughtful human being. Clark Kauffman of the Iowa Capital Dispatch wrote: “No matter where I saw her – at the courthouse or elsewhere – Bobbi was always the most engaged, energetic and smartest person in the room.”She married Kurt Ullrich in 1983.

She is survived by her sister Peggy of Oak Lawn, IL, and brother Mikel of Wood Dale, IL.  Additional survivors include a niece and two nephews.

Harold M. Nimmick

Harold Malcolm Nimmick, 95, of Asbury, died Wednesday, December 23, 2020, at his home in Asbury.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM Tuesday, December 29, 2020 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road. 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 Harold’s family.

The Funeral Service for Harold will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, December 30, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. 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.

Harold was born May 21, 1925, in Valley City, ND, the son of August and Irene (Kapaun) Nimmick. On May 28, 1949, he married Anna Mae Ricke at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on June 28, 1995.

He graduated from Wadena High School in Minnesota. In his early years farming was his livliehood; although, Harold retired from John Deere Works Dubuque after 41 years.

In his younger years, Harold enjoyed summers at his cottage on the Mississippi River with his wife and family. He was also fond of boating, fishing, and hunting.

Survivors include one son, Michael L. Nimmick of Elkhorn, WI; one daughter, Michele L. (Timothy) Bleymeyer of Hazel Green, WI; grandson Tanner Bleymeyer; and sister, Lola Fletcher of Clinton, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Dale; two sisters Donna and Elaine (Donald); sister-in-law, Dee; and brother-in-law, Farrell.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Harold’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Elaine Fitzpatrick Witt

Elaine Fitzpatrick Witt, 92 of Dubuque, IA passed away Wednesday, December 23, 2020 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Visitation will be from 9:30a.m. to 10:30a.m. Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at Saint Joseph Catholic Church Key West, where Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30a.m. with Fr. Rodney Ahlers officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Facemask will be required and social distancing must be observed. The service will be livestreamed on the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory Facebook page.

Elaine was born on November 28, 1928 in Saint Catherine Iowa, the daughter of Oscar and Angeline Noel. She was the last member of the family and was preceded in death by her siblings Omer and Louis Noel, Bernice Ferris, Helen Brockman, and Margarite Green Sanford.

On May 25, 1949 she married Joseph J. Fitzpatrick and they had five children together, Janice Aiels of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, James (Gail) Fitzpatrick of Le Seuer, MN, Douglas (Cindy) Fitzpatrick of Dubuque, Luann (Rodney) Langel of Urbandale, IA, and Kathy (Jeffery) West of Dubuque. Joseph preceded her in death on April 11, 1979.

Elaine later married Leonard Witt on March 20, 1981 and brought together his family to join hers. Her step-children include Carey (Dori) Witt, in Texas, Jamie (Trish) Witt in TN, Holly (Chris) Allen of NJ, and Dana Witt who is deceased. Elaine also has 25 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren and one Great-great Grandchild.

Elaine enjoyed many pursuits in her long life. She loved cooking, gardening, and sewing. Elaine taught tailoring classes at NICC. She loved to square dance, travel and watch wildlife on her farm. We will miss her beautiful smile and loving spirit.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they gave to Elaine.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.