Obituaries Archive

Henry R. Peppmeier

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

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

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

Those left to cherish Henry’s memory include

his loving wife,
Carrie Peppmeier, Dubuque, IA;

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

2 grandsons,
Ryan and Chad Peppmeier;

2 granddaughters,
Molly and Miranda Peppmeier;

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

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

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

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

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

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

Germaine G. Goedken

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leota M. Kircher

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Daniel J. Rigdon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marjorie J. (Mulligan) Lorenz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rest in peace mom.

Albert Duhme

Albert Duhme, 95, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, December 13, 2020, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

A public visitation will be held from 11:30 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Friday, December 18, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private funeral will be held.  Burial will be at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

Masks and social distancing will be required due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Fred Albert Duhme was born on August 18, 1925 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Fredrick Henry and Mary (Campbell) Duhme.  He graduated from Jackson County Country school and at legal age enlisted in the U.S. Army serving during World War II receiving an honorable discharge.  He married Margaret Ward on April 17, 1960 in Delmar, Iowa.

Albert farmed the family farm for many years until retiring and moving to Maquoketa.

Albert was a member of the Delmar United Methodist Church.  He enjoyed gardening, bowling, and playing in the men’s softball league throughout the years. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan.  Additionally, he enjoyed spending time and playing with his children and later his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Margaret Duhme of Maquoketa, IA; children, Deloris Byers of Leesburg, AL, Marylee (Ron) Capesius of LaMotte, IA, Kristine (Jeff) Hippen of Sterling, IL, Roseanna (Mark) Schepers of Elwood, IA, and Scott Duhme of Maquoketa, IA; 9 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; and a brother, Chester (Yvonne) Duhme of MO.  He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Elmer, Raymond, Harold, Kenneth and Melvin, sisters Thelma, Arlene and Helen, and a grandson Jath.

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

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

Thomas W. Spear, Jr.

Thomas W. Spear, Jr, 56, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Thursday December 10, 2020 at the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Des Moines, IA.

Funeral services will be 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday December 16, 2020 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Dubuque, with Pastor Jonathan Crawford officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League. The funeral will be live streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page.

Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday at the Church. Due to the Coronavirus, masks, social distancing, and occupancy restrictions will be observed.

Tom was born August 27, 1964 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Wilma (Wehrspann) & Thomas W. Spear, Sr.  He graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School, class of 1982. Stationed in San Diego, CA, Tom proudly served our country with the U. S. Marine Corps from August 1982 – August 1986. His military involvement led him to see and live in other parts of the world, such as Korea, Taiwan and Japan.

He had a strong drive and work ethic, spending most of his career in sales, and was a very successful businessman. Most recently, Tom owned and operated Fire Safety Technologies, of which he poured his heart into.

On September 22, 2007, Tom married the love of his life, Debra (Adams) Weber. Together, they enjoyed traveling, spending time with family and friends, and shared their love of music. Tom loved to give Deb a hard time and certainly knew how to make her laugh.

The center of his world was his family. He was blessed with two sons and gained three more. Together, Tom & Deb blended a family of “his, hers and ours.” In Tom’s eyes, family wasn’t defined by blood and he treated all five of their sons as his own. He was also blessed with five beautiful daughters in law and was the proud Papa of 14 grandchildren whom he loved with all his heart. He was fondly given the name “Uncle Big Shot” by many of his nieces and nephews for his big heart and constant generosity and support.

A lifetime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Tom was a man of strong faith. He found his love for music by singing with his family in church at a young age. This is one of the many places he shared his amazing and beautiful musical talents which he will be remembered for.

In social gatherings, Tom was the life of the party. He was known to sing and play his guitar, share funny jokes, and always had the best dish to pass. He loved the outdoors and was an avid sports fan. In his free time, Tom enjoyed a good game of golf or cheering on his favorite teams including the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears and Cubs.  He could also be found in the stands supporting his grandchildren, nieces and nephews with pure love and pride.

Tom will be missed immensely by all who knew him. His big smile and mischievous laughter will never be forgotten. Our hearts are breaking but we know Heaven’s choir gained a good one.

Surviving is his wife, Debra; five sons, Ryan (Michelle) Spear, Jeff (Shelley) Spear, Doug (Dawn) Weber, Matt (Sarah) Weber all of Dubuque, and Christopher (Jennifer) Weber of Galena, IL; 14-grandchildren, Kaylee, Harper, Bella, Jordin, Jasmine, Jaxon, Brennan, Genevieve, Brooklynn, Brayden, Matilyn, Evalyn, Cassidee and Mason, and one on the way; his sisters, Kris Kunkel, Deb Husemann and Ellen (Jeff) Hermanson; his brothers-in-law, Dave (Tina) Adams and Don (Kim) Adams; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Wilma; siblings, Jackie (Jim) Shireman, Rick Spear, and an infant sister Kathy, his brother-in-law, Rudy Husemann.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the V. A. Clinics and Hospitals in Dubuque, Iowa City and Des Moines for the wonderful care given to Tom throughout his recent health complications.

In lieu of flowers, a Thomas W. Spear, Jr Memorial has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Wayne E. Adrian

Wayne E. Adrian, 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, December 12, 2020, at his home surrounded by family.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10 A.M. on Thursday, December 17, 2020, at the Elwood United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 P.M. on Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery with military honors. It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Wayne Edward Adrian was born on January 20, 1933 in Elwood, Iowa, to August Edward and Alma Bernice (Ruggeberg) Adrian. He was a 1950 graduate of Elwood High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War earning an honorable discharge. He married Twyla Lee Sculley on March 18, 1961 at the Elwood United Methodist Church, and together they farmed and raised their family southeast of Elwood for many years until moving to Maquoketa.

Wayne was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, Zealous Masonic Lodge #435 of Oxford Junction, and the American Legion Menzo Widel Post #381 of Lost Nation.

As a proud veteran, one of his most memorable experiences was attending the Quad Cities Honor Flight in 2013. Wayne was dedicated to his family and attended all of their events. He enjoyed his winters in Florida and was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs fan. Additionally, he enjoyed spending time with friends, especially going to McDonald’s every morning with the “coffee club”.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Twyla Adrian of Maquoketa, IA; children, Dean (Tammy) Adrian of Maquoketa, IA, Rachel (Todd) Till of Delmar, IA, and Laura (Craig) Levien of Davenport, IA; 9 grandchildren, Chelsea (Brock) Bowman, Tyler (Demi) Adrian, Michael (Kelsey) Till, Chad (Ashley) Till, Stephanie (Bobby) Rinzel, Luke Seyfert, Justin Seyfert, Martha Levien, and Mark Levien; 9 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Kathryn Jebsen of Chetek, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Elinor Kleinsmith, and a brother Ronald Adrian.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or the Quad Cities Honor Flight.

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

Madelyn M. Connolly

Madelyn M. Connolly, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 12, 2020 at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, MN.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 17, 2020 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in St. John’s Placid Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Thursday at the church until time of mass. Please remember to wear your mask and if you are unable to attend a live stream will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Madelyn was born on September 2, 1927 in Bernard, Iowa the daughter of Ray and Marguerite (Hawks) Hutchins. She married Delbert Connolly on May 14, 1960 at St. Patrick’s Church, North Garryowen.

Madelyn was a homemaker most of her life. She was a proud Irish girl and loved going to parties and dances with Del and their many friends. She also enjoyed going to garage sales with her sister and watching television mysteries. Madelyn loved living in Dubuque and did not enjoy traveling too much because she always said no place she visited was ever as beautiful as Dubuque. Most of all, Madelyn loved spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her 3 children: Kathy (Tim) Schwanz, Waterloo, IA; Pat (Paula) Connolly, Anoka, MN; Lisa Brandenburger, Fridley, MN; 9 grandchildren, Jeremy (Lyndsey) Schwanz, Kevin (Irna) Schwanz, Ryan Schwanz, Chelley Chorn, Michaela Chorn, Sarah Chorn, Alicia (Matt) Llewellyn, Alan Peterson, Faith Hook; 14 great-grandchildren; her brother Robert (Carol) Hutchins; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her sister Dorothy (Leo) Cox, and her brother William (Martha) Hutchins.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Dubuque.

Mary A. Lange

Mary Agnes Lange, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 12, 2020 at Bethany Home with her daughters by her side.

Private family services will be held at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Sr. Margaret Ann Kramer officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page. A celebration of Mary’s life will be at a later date.

Mary was born on October 15, 1935 in Dubuque, IA the daughter of John and Veronica (Lex) Regan. She grew up on a farm in Rickardsville, IA and attended Flanagan School, a one room schoolhouse. She graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1953 and on August 29, 1959 she was united in marriage to Carl Lange at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville.

Mary was a devoted wife and mother. She was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church and enjoyed baking, gardening and bird watching. She was best known for her prize-winning fruit pies and apple cakes. She was a volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum for 35 years. She received the governors award for her volunteerism. She was also a member of the Women of the Moose Lodge and worked for Bishops Buffet for many years.

She enjoyed camping and traveling and had a permanent site for 41 years at Paradise Valley in Garnavillo, Iowa where she hosted many fish frys. Mary’s greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.

Mary is survived by her husband of 61 years Carl; children Mike Lange, Mark Lange, Ron Lange, Rose (Steve) Schulz, Donna (Dave) Wolter, and Doug (Chris) Lange. Her siblings John (Maureen) Regan, Margaret Kurth, Jim (Sandy) Regan, Katie (Perly) Reeg, Jeanne (Leroy) Reeg, and Alice Rhomberg, her sisters-in-law Betty Knabel, and Phyllis Blichman, brothers-in-law Marty Lange and John Lange.

Grandchildren: Kevin (Taylor) Wolter, Kyle (Lacey) Wolter, Stephanie Schulz, Jared (Meghan Silbernagel) Schulz, Grace Lange & Rahne McIntire. Great Grandchildern Holden Wolter & Vivian Wolter.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother Tom Regan; a sister Irene Hauber and granddaughter Molly O’Regan Wolter.

Memorials may be mailed to the funeral home and will be distributed by the family between Dubuque Arboretum, Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home for all their compassionate care and support they gave Mary and her family

Leo W. Werner

Leo W. Werner, 67, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away at 12:02 a.m. Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Midwest Medical Center in Galena, IL, from an apparent heart attack.

Private family services will be held on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound, with Rev. James Meltretter officiating. A public graveside service will be at Holy Trinity Cemetery, Scales Mound, IL, at 11:00 AM. Where military honors will be accorded by Illinois National Guard-HONOR GUARD.

Leo was born on June 19, 1953 at Hazel Green, WI, the son of James C. and Sarah R. (Winter) Werner. He was a graduate of Scales Mound High School, class of 1971.
Leo served in the U. S. Army from 1972 – 1974. He was united in marriage to Janet Redfearn in 1974 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church at Schapville, IL. He was a member of the Scales Mound Volunteer Fire Dept. for 46 years, presently serving as Captain.

Leo was employed at Kelly-Springfield Tire Co. in Freeport for 30 years until his retirement. Following retirement he enjoyed driving his dump truck, driving for RT&T Trucking and lastly as a bus driver for the Scales Mound School District.

He was an avid history buff, loved his old western movies, Youtube videos, he was known for his knowledge of guns, enjoyed recreational shooting, and his passion for sports, especially the sports his grandkids participated in. Leo was a # 1 Hornet fan and a BSM Zephyr/Knights fan. He was a proud U. S. Soldier and proud of his Green Bay Packers.

Surviving are his wife of 46 years Janet; three children, Brad (Keri) Werner, Hiedi (Neal) Edelson, and Adam Werner; his four favorite grandchildren, Benjamin, Anniston, Landon and Max; two grand dogs, Asher & Rodgers; two brothers, Dennis Werner and Larry (Brenda) Werner; his father-in-law, Vernon Redfearn of Galena; many loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James & Sarah, and his mother-in-law, Ruth (Dotzel) Redfearn.

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

John B. Drexler

John B. Drexler, 90, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 10, 2020 at Grand Meadows Assisting Living Facilities.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 14^th, 2020 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of service. Please remember to wear your mask, if you are unable to attend a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

John was born on November 17, 1930 in Farley, Iowa the son of Ben and Lida Drexler. He attended St. Joseph School in Farley, Iowa. He served in the US Army during the Korean War from 1953 ~ 1955.

He attended Loras College and graduated from Marquette University in 1956. He taught at the Farley High School, then worked for Prudential Insurance for 17 years. He lastly was working for Dubuque Packing Co in quality control and retired after 17 years.

He married Lois Marie Link on July 20, 1957 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church and celebrated 63 years of marriage this past July. He was a member of St. Columbkille Church where he served as usher for 23 years at 4:15pm mass.

John was an avid golfer and long-time member at Lacoma Golf Club, where he had a hole-in-one playing with his grandson Derrek. He enjoyed his winters in Florida and spending time with his family. He was a Dodger fanatic and also enjoyed cheering on the Indianapolis Colts and Iowa Hawkeyes. He enjoyed all kinds of music and was always up for a good game of Euchre.

He is survived by his loving wife Lois; his son David (Mary Esmann) Drexler; brother-in-law Joe (Connie) Link; sisters-in-law Mary Virginia (Dick) Meyers, Barbara Link, Mary Link, and many nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Wayne (Mary) Drexler, his grandson Derrek Drexler; and brothers-in-law Jack Link, Richard (Mary) Link and Phil Link.

A John Drexler memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, the staff at Grand Meadows especially the Conlon House nurses for the outstanding care of John.

Kevin T. McDermott

Kevin T. McDermott, 63, of Monticello, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at St. Luke’s Unity Point Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Mass will be live streamed on Sacred Heart Monticello Facebook page. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.  Masks are mandatory and social distancing will be followed.  Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.  Kramer Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Kevin was born December 9, 1957 in Scranton, PA the son of Dr. Anthony L. and Myrna (Graham) McDermott.  He graduated from Monticello High School with the class of 1976.  After High School he continued his education at Coe College and graduated in 1990 with a double major in chemistry and computer science.  He married Shellie Kvale in 1991 and they later divorced.  He worked at Terex in Cedar Rapids as a senior engineer.  Kevin loved his Catholic faith, his family, golf, sci-fi, working on vehicles, inventing things and playing his guitar.

He is survived by his children, Tony McDermott, Katelyn (Austin) Cuesta, Erin McDermott, three grandchildren; Andrew, Aurora, and Wylan Cuesta, siblings; Maureen (Troy) Dawson, Sean McDermott, Patrick (Susan) McDermott, Kelley (Ronald) Jankowski, Shannon (Michael) Smearman, Mary (Jimmy) Dooney, special friend and fiancé, Deborah Thompson, mother of his three children, Shellie Kvale, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

Cards, letters and memorials may be mailed to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 791 Monticello, IA 52040. Please include first and last name Kevin McDermott on the outside of the envelope.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com

James H. Thurman

James H. “Jim” Thurman, 77, of rural Galena, IL, passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020 at Mercy One Dubuque, from complications due to Covid-19.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a family prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m. with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Due to State and CDC guidelines, facemasks, social distancing and occupancy restrictions will be observed.

A Catholic Mass and Burial will be held at a later date at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Bismarck, MO, with Fr. Mark Ebert officiating.  The burial will be at St. John the Apostle Cemetery, Bismarck, MO.

Jim was born on November 3, 1943 at Bonne Terre, MO, the son of Anthony J. and Cecelia M. (Paul) Thurman.  He was united in marriage to Rhonda Kay Clark on August 16, 1969 in Park Hills, MO.

Jim was a veteran of the Vietnam War serving with the U. S. Navy. He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works as a mechanical engineer, retiring in 2002. Jim was a former member of VFW Post #2426 of Desloge, MO.

Jim is survived by his wife Rhonda; three children, Stephanie Mahaffy of Westminster, MD, Carol Lee Thurman and Anthony (Amanda) Thurman both of Dubuque, IA; four grandchildren; his siblings, John W. (Helen) Thurman of Farmington, MO, Paul J. (Shirley) Thurman of Monroe, LA, David G. (Sheila) Thurman of Atlanta, GA, Thomas J. (Sarah) Thurman of Rocky Mount, NC, and Judy L. (Gerald) Heitman of Patton, MO.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Memorials may be sent to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.

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

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

Kathy A. Stahr

Kathy A. Stahr, 58, of Sherrill, died Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, following a year-long battle with cancer that she fought with courage and integrity.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM, Tuesday, December 15, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd. 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 Kathy’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Kathy will be 10:30 AM Wednesday, December 16, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant and Kathy’s uncle, Father Don Lange as Concelebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The mass will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kathy was born November 11, 1962, in Dubuque, the daughter of Thomas and Donna Lange Bonz. On October 18, 1986 she married Doug Stahr in Dubuque.

Kathy graduated from Hempstead High School in Dubuque in 1981. She went on to work as a Certified Pharmacy Tech at Mercy Family Pharmacy for 27 years.

She was presented with many awards over her 35 years of volunteer work with the North East Iowa Council and Boy Scout Troop 94. She loved traveling, crafting, and especially crocheting. She cherished her time with her nieces and nephews, her friends, and her friends’ children. She was a kind, giving, welcoming woman, she donated her time to anyone in need.  Everybody felt that they were her best friend.

Survivors include her husband, Doug Stahr of Sherrill; one brother, Mike Bonz of Des Moines; two sisters, Lori Bonz of Des Moines, and Jamie Bonz of Dubuque; nephew, Scott (Julie) Bonz, niece, Cristen (fiance’ Victor) Bonz, nephew, Michael Bonz, nephew, Blaine Stahr, nephew, Sam Costa, nephew, Owen Stahr; great-nieces, Hailie, Hope, and Bentley; father and mother-in-law, Doug and Mary Stahr; brothers- in-law, Jeff Stahr, and Chris Stahr and sister-in-law, Jenny (Will) Stahr.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one brother Pat Bonz; and one niece Caitlyn Bonz.

A special thank you to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for their care and concern.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for the Stahr Trust.

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 Kathy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.