Obituaries Archive

Margaret Cloos-Mueller

Margaret “Peg” Cloos-Mueller, 69, formerly of Springbrook, passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook.  Family will greet friends 9:00 am until Mass time also on Wednesday, December 16, 2020 at the Church.  Burial will be in Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery in Springbrook.

It is required to utilize masks and to observe social distancing during the visitation and during the funeral mass due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the St. Joseph Bellevue – Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook page, on their You Tube Channel.

Margaret was born April 6, 1951, the daughter of James and Kathleen (Gonner) Cloos.  She married Donald Mueller on May 22, 1971, then a tragic head injury changed her life almost 50 years ago.  Margaret always brought joy to the people who cared for her over the years.  She enjoyed playing cards, listening to music, an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan and you knew never to interrupt her when watching the Price is Right or Let’s Make A Deal.  Peg was dealt lemons, but always made lemonade with what life dealt her.

Survivors include her father, James Cloos; siblings, Tom (Lois) Cloos, Steven (Colleen) Cloos, Mark (Marlene) Cloos , Patrick (Shirley) Cloos, Fr. Robert Cloos, Barbara (Kenny) Lundin, and Richard Cloos; numerous nieces and nephews; and extended relatives.

Margaret was preceded in death by her mother, Kathleen; paternal grandparents, Peter and Viola Cloos; and her maternal grandparents, George and Alverda Gonner.

A memorial fund has been established in Margaret’s memory, memorials and condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service  100 N. 6^th St. Bellevue, IA  52031 c/o Margaret Cloos-Mueller Family.

The Family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Dr. Angela Kelley and Staff, and Finley Hospital for your care and concern all these years.

Margaret’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com.

Sarah A. Frees

Sarah A. Frees, age 34 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on December 9, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving friends and caretakers.  To honor Sarah’s life, a private remembrance memorial will be held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sarah’s family.

Sarah was born on April 23, 1986, in Des Moines, Iowa, a beautiful daughter to Rita Carr.  Her arrival into this world, and divine purpose were immediately obvious to all who knew and loved her.  Sometimes the Lord sends souls here to impact the world in magnificent ways, and sometimes He graciously sends us angels who are here merely to allow others to share their love and missions with and upon them.  Sarah would spend her time among us relying on others to care for her daily needs, but in return she would provide abundant blessings to all who came in contact with her.  Her quiet joy and relentless determination were undeniably contagious and the love which she would both give and take became a constant source of all that is good in this world.  We will surely miss our dear Sarah moving forward, but we also know and trust that she is now residing comfortably in her eternal estate in absolute perfection.  Thank you, Sarah, for reminding us all that this life is only a temporary state of being and that one day we can all find peace after courageously bearing our crosses here.  God Bless and God Speed Sweet Sarah and we thank you immensely for the opportunity to serve!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Sarah include,

her mother,
Rita A. (Gifford) Carr, Winterset, Iowa;

her siblings,
Travis Frees, Winterset, Iowa,
and Alysia Frees, Winterset, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, Hills & Dales Caretakers, friends, and neighbors.

Sarah was preceded in death by her grandparents, William and Marcia Gifford, and Donna May Sheets and Edward A. Frees.

Sarah’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Hills & Dales for all of their care and devotion to Sarah.

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

Glenn G. Miller

Glenn G. Miller, 93, of Clinton, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 10, 2020, at his home.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating Glenn’s life will be held on Monday, December 14, 2020 at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Glenn Gerald Miller was born on March 20, 1927 in Andrew, Iowa, to John and Mary (Hose) Miller. He grew up in Andrew and then served his country in the U.S. Army during both World War II and the Korean War. He married LaVonne Louise Bahnsen on February 4, 1953 in Clinton, Iowa.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, Glenn worked for over 30 years at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa as the Union Steward and as a Foreman on the Block Line. He retired in 1985.

Glenn was a member of the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75 and Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew. He loved going to the casino, mowing lawns and playing cards.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife LaVonne Miller of Clinton, IA; 8 children, Gerald (Melody) Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Brenda (David) Gombert of Maquoketa, IA, Connie Rowan of Maquoketa, IA, Richard Miller of Clinton, IA, Danny Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Gary Miller of Maquoketa, IA, Gloria (Mike) Johnson of Clinton, IA, and Peggy (Pat) Owen of Des Moines, IA; 13 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 3 brothers, 2 sisters, son-in-law Donnie Rowan, daughter-in-law Molly Miller, 3 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

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

Colleen M. (Parker) Grant

Colleen M. (Parker) Grant, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away at 8:24 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation. Due to COVID-19 concerns there will be a private family service to celebrate Colleen’s life. The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery following cremation at a later date. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is helping the family with arrangements.

Colleen was born on April 18, 1927, in Guttenberg, Iowa, daughter of Arthur and Flossie (Busch) Parker.

Colleen graduated from Guttenberg High School where she played basketball and softball. She was united in marriage to Norbert Grant, on October 7, 1948, in Guttenberg. They raised their family, and celebrated 58 wonderful years of matrimony, before sadly Norb passed away on July 31, 2007. Colleen was a dedicated wife, mother and homemaker who was thrilled to be able to also babysit her grandchildren when they were born. Colleen was definitely devoted to her family. When the grandchildren were born she and Norb never missed an opportunity to spend time with them, attending every sporting and academic event the kids were a part of. She especially enjoyed stopping at Culvers afterwards for a “victory” treat. When she did make some time for herself, Colleen liked to going out to eat and jumping in the car to take a ride to her native Guttenberg to see what was new in the big city. She was a talented seamstress who made her own clothes as well as outfits for the kids and their dolls. She was also a long time sports fan who rooted for the Hawkeyes and both the Chicago Cubs and Bulls. Colleen will no doubt be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Colleen’s memory include

her 2 sons,
Michael (Denise) Grant, Peosta, IA
and Terrence Grant, Dubuque, IA;

her beloved grandchildren,
Benjamin (Ennea) Grant, Greeley, CO,
Zachary (Jade Flansburg) Grant, Iowa City, IA
and Kara (Jesse) Lawler, Peosta, IA;

her great-grandson,
Carter Lawler;

her sister,
JoAnne “Annie” (Don) Dondelinger, Cuba City, WI;

and 2 sisters-in-law,
Jean Parker, Garnavillo, IA
and Adele Parker, Guttenberg, IA.

Colleen was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Norbert Grant; and her siblings, Helen (Paul) Barton, Willie (LaVonne) Parker, Bob (Jean) Parker, Don (Agnella) Parker, Gary Parker and Clyde Parker.

The family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and compassionate care of Colleen.

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

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

Harold Hilliard

Harold Hilliard, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 3, 2020, at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, December 12th at 10:30 AM at Grand View United Methodist Church with Pastor Tom Shinkle officiating. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens with Military Honors accorded by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Family and friends may visit with the family between 9:30 AM and the time of services at Grand View Methodist Church. The funeral will be live-streamed on Grand View United Methodist Church’s and Leonard Funeral Home’s Facebook page.

Harold was born March 25, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois, to Jeraldine (Spann) and David Hilliard Jr. He is a graduate of Hyde Park High School in Chicago. He had completed a welder’s certificate and was studying mechanical engineering before he was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War as a member of the Army Corps of Engineers. After returning to civilian life, Harold worked for Eastman Kodak, WVON, and other family-owned businesses.

Harold was passionate about fixing things, always tinkering and returning items to good working condition. Both of his parents came from farming families, he had nine aunts and uncles, numerous cousins, and he was very proud of his family’s entrepreneurship and successes. He loved his family, spending time with grandchildren, found joy in gardening, and he had a major sweet tooth for Pepsi, chocolate donuts, and ice cream. He was known for his intelligence, kindness and helpfulness.

Harold was preceded in death by his mother and father, Jereldine and David, and his sister Valerie.

He is survived by his daughter, Pauline (Brian), sister Jacqueline, brothers Clarence and Kenneth (Beverly), grandchildren Jamal, Alexandria, Madeline, and David.

A special thank you to Stonehill Communities, Unity Point Health Finley Hospital, the Dubuque Fire Department, Leonard Funeral Home and the many doctors, nurses, and staff who provided exceptional care for Harold. Condolences sent to the family care of Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory.

Sister Virginia McCaffrey, BVM (Justinian)

Sister Virginia McCaffrey, BVM (Justinian), 95, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Natural burial Rite of Committal was Monday, Dec. 7, 2020. Burial was in the Mount Carmel cemetery. Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be Friday, Dec. 18, 2020, from 9:30-10:15 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:45 a.m.

Sister Virginia was an elementary teacher in Riverside, Iowa; Chicago; Santa Ana, Calif.; Burbank, Calif.; and Oklahoma City, where she also served as principal. She was director of religious education and parish office manager in Huntington Park, Calif.; parish visitor in Santa Ana, Calif.; and school office staff member and assistant librarian in Pasadena, Calif.

She was born on Feb. 11, 1925, in Seneca, Kans., to Ralph and Mary (Baker) McCaffrey. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1942, from St. Boniface Parish, Fort Smith, Ark. She professed first vows on March 19, 1945, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1950.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Keith.

She is survived by five nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 78 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2605 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52003 is in charge of arrangements.

Jay Allan Bartell

Jay Allan Bartell, 54, of Fulton, IL and formerly Galena, IL died November 24, 2020, unexpectedly at his home. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions a burial of his cremated remains next to his parents in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena will take place when it is safer to gather. A celebration of his life will follow. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born April 1, 1966, in Hazel Green, WI the son of Richard and Charlotte (Schultz) Bartell. Jay grew up in Galena. He was full of love and kindness for all his family and friends. He had an open-door policy and welcomed people with open arms. Jay loved spending time with his grandchildren, singing and dancing to karaoke. He was very generous and crafty and could build anything. Jay loved spending time by his fire in his man cave.

He is survived by two sons, Allan Jay “AJ” (Brittany Kramer) Gagne, of Dubuque, IA, and Jason Pettera, of Hanover, IL, one daughter, Tiffany (Anthony) Dosio, of Kieler, WI, three grandchildren, Riley, Kaiden and Carter, his brothers Roger (Jenny) Bartell and Barney Bartell both of Galena, Russell Bartell of Livingston, WI, and Scott (Cindy) Bartell of Benton, WI, a sister in-law, Lisa Bartell, nineteen nieces and nephews, his very close and special friend, Debra Gagne.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Kyle Bartell.

He will be deeply missed. Fly high “Jay Bird”.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Thomas J. Kirby

Thomas J. Kirby, 80, of Monticello, passed away Wednesday, December 9, 2020, at Sunnycrest Nursing Center, Dysart, Iowa.

Due to current COVID protocol, masks are required and social distancing is encouraged at all venues. Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:30 am Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am Monday, Dec. 14, 2020, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello with burial in Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Tom was born March 7, 1940, in Delaware County, Iowa, the son of Paul and Helen (Haas) Kirby. He served in the Army from 1961-1963. He married Dorothy Dirks on April 30, 1963, in Manchester. They moved to Monticello and Tom worked at Farmstead Foods, maintained Central Park and retired from MC Industries (Polo Plastics).

Tom enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He always had a cold beer ready if someone stopped by to visit. He would often camp at Central Park, Bellevue and Gearhart Mountain, and he enjoyed playing cards at the Showroom, deer hunting, riding ATV’s, watching his grandchildren’s activities and taking winter trips to Mission, TX.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Dorothy, daughters: Valerie (Curt) Bacon of Hopkinton, Theresa (Bob) Carlson of Monticello and Laura (Rob) Gearhart of Coggon; grandchildren: Alecia and Jeremy (Rachel) Bacon and Samantha (Devin) Putz, Justin (Rhea) Carlson, and Ryan and Jenna Gearhart; great grandchildren: Adalyn Bacon, Caiden and Mila Putz and Emmalee Carlson; siblings: Alan (Lorna) Kirby, Kenneth (Sandy) Kirby, Ronald (Kathy) Kirby and Karen (Jim) Baumgartner, all of Strawberry Point; a sister-in-law, Helen Dirks of Monticello, his dog, Buddy and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a granddaughter, Stacey Carlson, siblings: Janette (Joseph) Strang and Robert Kirby, in-laws: Myrtle and William Dirks, Eugene Dirks, Anna (Lawrence) Kray, Lavonne (Harold) Peters, Wanita (Gib) Nehl and Helen (Bob) Drumbarger.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com. Cards and memorials may be mailed to the Kirby family in care of Kramer Funeral Home at PO Box 791, Monticello, IA 52310-0791.

Paul M. Von Sprecken

Paul M. Von Sprecken, 68, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, December 7, 2020, at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2020, at Miles, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family. The service will be recorded and later uploaded to the Carson Celebration of Life Center website.

Paul Melvin Von Sprecken was born on April 18, 1952 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Glen Melvin and Ramona (Werner) Von Sprecken. He grew up in Jackson County and graduated from Bellevue High School in 1970. He then attended Kirkwood Community College where he received an Associates degree in Mechanics. He then worked as farm mechanic and farmed with his dad until 1980 when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy serving until receiving an honorable discharge in 1984. He then moved to Florida until purchasing an acreage and returning to Iowa in 1999.

He married Mary Frances Moll on February 14, 2014 at Faith Community Church in Maquoketa.

Paul was a member of Faith Community Church in Maquoketa, Andrew AMVETS Post #62, Preston American Legion Post #602, and the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75. He enjoyed fishing and loved his dogs Susie and Charlie.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary Frances Von Sprecken of Maquoketa, IA; his mother, Ramona Von Sprecken of Maquoketa, IA; sisters, Shirley (Mike) Massey of Crawfordsville, IA, and Kris (Paul) Franzen of West Linn, OR; 5 step-children, 21 -step-grandchildren, 1 step-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Glen and a brother Dale.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Jackson County Humane Society or the Wounded Warrior Project.

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.

Laura S. Berns Sudmeier

Laura Sylveria Berns Sudmeier, 95, formerly of New Vienna, Iowa died December 8, 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic there will be a private family Mass and burial at St. Boniface in New Vienna. Kramer Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Mass will be Livestreamed on https.www.facebook.com/KramerFuneral.

Laura was born May 14, 1925 to Louis and Clara Harter Berns. She grew up on the family farm near Garnavillo, Iowa along with her eight siblings and attended St. Joseph’s School in Garnavillo. Laura married George Sudmeier June 5, 1945 at St. Joseph’s Church in Garnavillo. They enjoyed 60 years of marriage until George’s death in 2005. Laura and George lived and established an electrical service business in New Vienna. Prior to the advent of the big box stores in the cities they also had an appliance store, Sudmeier Electric where Laura enjoyed conversing with customers and product suppliers.

Laura was an active member of St. Boniface Church and School. She served in the Altar and Rosary Society and was instrumental in overseeing the interior repainting of the school and was a faithful contributor of homemade pies to the Labor Day Picnic. Laura loved playing euchre with her siblings, winning at Scrabble, and sharing picnics, fishing, and Christmas with her family.

As Laura and George neared retirement and decided to build a home outside the center of the town, they closed the appliance store and restricted their business to home and farm wiring and related services. Laura and George also began spending part of each winter in Florida, first in their motorhome and later with their fifth wheel trailer. This was a continuation of their lifelong travel and camping adventures. They particularly enjoyed taking the grandchildren camping, especially at Jellystone in Bagley, Wisconsin. Laura and George were excellent partners in business and family life. In later years, after George’s death, Laura enjoyed traveling with her children. She also loved the house that she always said, “Dad built for me” along with her yard and flower garden. A great housekeeper and cook, one neighbor described her as being able to weed her flower bed in white slacks and never get dirty! She loved her neighbors, and they were so good to her, enabling her to stay in her home longer than she would have been able without their help.

Laura is survived by her children: Georgia Goebel of New Vienna, Iowa; Robert Sudmeier (Karen) of Dubuque, Iowa; Carol Sudmeier of Hiawatha, Iowa; and William Sudmeier of Denver, Colorado. Laura also had nine grandchildren: Lori Henning (Dave), Lisa Scott, Michael Sack (Michelle), Jeff Sudmeier (Molly), Michael Sudmeier (Anne), Abbie Nilles (Joel), Lizzie Sudmeier, Lauren Sudmeier, and Gabriel Sudmeier. Laura’s life was blessed with fourteen great grandchildren: Kayvon, Megan, Halie, Matt, Sam, Rob, Tully, Clara, Evan, Regan, Eleanor, James, Odin, Zuri and one great, great grandson, Arthur. Laura is also survived by her brother, Louis Berns of Monona, Iowa, her sister Mary Lou Krapfl of New Vienna, and her sister-in-law, Rosie Berns of Garnavillo.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Clara Berns; her beloved husband, George; siblings, Peter Berns, Roland Berns, Claudine Goedken, Clara Ann Neuhaus, Helene Sudmeier, and Aloys Berns; and sisters and brothers in law, Marie Berns, Virginia Berns, Lorraine Berns, Betty Berns, Herb Goedken, Loraine McLane, Wilma Berns, Alvin Neuhaus, Jim Sudmeier, and Arlene Wilhelm; son in law, Ernie Goebel.

Special thanks to Ron Boeckenstedt who faithfully watched over her yard and home; Kenny Roling who provided her with freshly caught fish; neighbors: Kathy Boeckenstedt, Kathy Meyer, Darlene Frommelt, Barb Davidshofer, Darlene Osterhaus and previously deceased neighbors Grace Roling and Darlene Wedewer who provided companionship or made her birthday special each year with celebratory trips; Mary Eulberg and the staff at River Living Center, Guttenberg, Iowa who cared for her since May 2018; the staff and Dr. Dikkers, Dr. Hoffmann, and Dr. Smith at the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital; and the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque who provided loving care in her final days.

Online condolences may be shared at www.kramerfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers and other expressions of sympathy, memorials are preferred to St. Boniface Church or the New Vienna Luxemburg Fire Department and may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home 750 12th Ave. S.W. Dyersville, IA 52040 c/o Laura Sudmeier Family.

Sister Paulina Sullivan, BVM

Sister Paulina Sullivan, BVM, 95, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Monday, Dec. 7, 2020, at Marian Hall.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020. A virtual visitation will be held from 10:30 – 10:40 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 10:45 a.m. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Paulina was an elementary teacher in Clinton and Fort Dodge, Iowa; Rock Island, Ill.; Chicago; and Wilmot, Wis., where she also served as principal.

She was born on May 3, 1925, in Kansas City, Mo., to John and Mary (Donnelly) Sullivan. She entered the BVM congregation Sept 8, 1942, from Holy Name Parish, Kansas City, Mo. She professed first vows on March 19, 1945, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1950.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister Margaret Sullivan. She is survived by a cousin Paula Karczewski, Wood Dale, Ill., and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 78 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

Irwin M. McDermott

Irwin M. McDermott, 94, of Epworth, Iowa passed away Friday, December 4, 2020 at his home in Epworth.

A visitation for Irwin will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, December 10, 2020 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and local restriction only fifteen people will be allowed in the funeral home at one time, social distancing will be observed, and masks are required.  Anyone wishing to send a memorial may send it to Reiff Funeral Home, ATTN: Irwin McDermott family, P.O. 250, Epworth, Iowa, 52045.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 11, 2020 at St. John Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. Tom McDermott presiding.  The mass will be live streamed at 10:30 a.m. to the St. Elizabeth Pastorate Facebook page. Burial will be held in St. John Cemetery in Placid, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Irwin was born December 6, 1925, in Placid, Iowa, son of Tommy and Katie (Anthoine) McDermott.  He graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque.  On July 25, 1953, he was united in marriage to Joannel M. O’Brien at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore, Iowa.  The couple farmed in the rural Placid area until they retired and moved to Epworth in 1997.  She preceded him in death on February 18, 2019.

Irwin was a man of faith and valued being a good neighbor and friend.  He contributed his time and talents on parish and community boards and countless hours in the maintenance and upkeep of St. John’s.  He was a veteran, having served in the United States Army during the Korean conflict.  He was a member of the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650 and the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001.  Irwin was a devoted husband and the best dad ever.  He will be sorely missed by his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by seven children, Mary (Merlin) Dietzel of Dubuque, Molly (Tom) Brehm of Placid, Meg (Mike) Muir of Dubuque, Rev. Tom McDermott of Dubuque, Steve McDermott of Placid, Karen (Doug) Koopmann of Peosta, and Sheila (Frank) Ward of Dubuque; 33 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; one sister, Rita McDermott of Placid; sisters and brothers-in-law, Kay (Rex) Gogerty of Hubbard, Lois Schlegel of Fairfield, CT, Mike (Joyce) O’Brien, Joe O’Brien, Terry (Delores) O’Brien Deb (Bob) Green, Maurna O’Brien, and Nikki Manternach all of Cascade, and Mary Ann O’Brien of Waunakee, WI.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; one son, Phil McDermott, father and mother-in-law, Earl and Grace O’Brien; two sisters, Sr. Madeleve O.S.F. and Honora Genevieve McDermott; six brothers, John, Pat, Rev. Philip, Thomas, Leo, and Francis (Marie) McDermott; brothers-in-law, Earl (Elaine), Ralph, George, Pat (Ann), Steve O’Brien, and Rich Schlegel; one sister-in-law, Monica O’Brien.

In lieu of flowers, etc. please direct memorials to Seton Catholic School or St. John Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa.

Online condolence may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Michael L. Trowbridge

Michael L. Trowbridge, 70 of Muscoda, WI, formerly of Kieler, WI, passed away on Sunday, December 6, 2020 at the Richland Hospital, Richland Center, WI.

Due to the Coronavirus, a Celebration of Life will be held later in 2021 when it safe for everyone to gather.  Burial will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Kieler, WI.

He was born on March 6, 1950 at Primghar, Iowa, the son of Gordon L. and Rosemary J. (Hoppenjans) Trowbridge.

Michael was a graduate of Southwestern High School at Hazel Green, the class of 1968. He attended the University of Wisconsin at Platteville and graduated in 1974 with a Master’s Degree in Psychology.

He was formerly employed at Swiss Colony in Dickeyville and Walmart in Dubuque.          Mike loved listening to Classical Music.

Surviving are his siblings, Gary (Peggy) Trowbridge of Kieler and Kathy (Scott) Schultz Harrison of Amboy, IL; a sister-in-law Hatsumi Trowbridge of Hazel Green, WI; his step-mother, Mary Lou Trowbridge of Kieler, and six nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Rosemary, his brother Steven J. Trowbridge and a brother-in-law, Robert Schultz, and a nephew Benjamin Schultz

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

Eldon L. Tranel

On Sunday, December 6, 2020, Eldon Louis Tranel, loving husband and father of three, passed away at the age of 70 after a hard fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease and a long term infection.

Eldon was born on April 12, 1950 in Cuba City, WI to Mary (Koos) and Louis Tranel. He married his sweetheart, Susan Hingtgen, on February 24, 1973. He took over the family farm in Menominee, IL and farmed for over 50 years where they raised their three daughters, Karissa, Molly and Nicole. He was also a dedicated employee for 35 years at the John Deere facility in Dubuque where he worked as a machinist and for 6 years at Swiss Colony.

Eldon had a passion for farming and conservation and was named Outstanding Conservation Farmer by Jo Daviess County in 1985.  He loved snowmobiling, deer hunting and there wasn’t an ice cream or pecan pie that he would ever turn down. He was known for his mischievous sense of humor, fabulous mustache, and kind and compassion spirit.  He never hesitated to help family and friends and was a beloved member of the Menominee community as a village board member, church usher, member of the Nativity BVM Holy Name Society and UAW Local 94.

Eldon was preceded in death by his mother and father, Mary and Louis, his sister Carol, his sisters-in-law Debbie and Janet, and his in-laws John and Vivian. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Susan, three children: Karissa (Gabriel) Sanabria, Molly (Derek) Nelson and Nicole Tranel, three grandchildren: Kiara, Landon and Oliver, and his two brothers: Vernon and Eugene Tranel.

A PRIVATE Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, December 10^th at 1:00pm at Nativity BVM Church in Menominee, IL, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. There will not be a separate wake service, however, visitors may stop by the church starting at 10:30am prior to the funeral for a Walk Thru Viewing.  COVID guidelines with limited occupancy will be enforced and masks are required. The Mass of Christian Burial will be livestreamed at The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.  We, look forward to hosting a Celebration of Life event for Eldon in 2021.

A special thanks to Dr. Richard Farrell at Midwest Medical, Dr. Andrew Pugely and Dr. Eiyu Matsumoto at the University of Iowa, and Chris and Stephanie of Hospice of Dubuque. In lieu of flowers, the family prefers a donation be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

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

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

Daniel J. McCarron

Daniel Joseph McCarron, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 3, 2020 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital. Dan passed due to complications from Covid-19. He was a resident of Manor Care in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday December 10^th, 2020 at Saint Columbkille Catholic Church, 1240 Rush St. Dubuque, IA with Rev. David Schatz officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Thursday, at the church until time of mass. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Please wear your mask and remember to social distance. A live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Dan was born on August 3, 1929 the son of Robert Anthony McCarron and Julia Wolfe. He was very proud of his dad as an artist and his mom who taught him to read. He fondly remembered his sister, Connie, as the sibling who worked hard to get him in trouble as a child. His mother Julia impressed him with saying “Be the Man your Mother Thinks you are”.

Born Irish, he never let that influence his life, he got along with everyone. He always had a story from his childhood neighborhood between Curtis and York Streets. The West Hill District was the heart of the family. Themes throughout his life included, “I Did it My Way”, “King of the Road”, and “These Boots were made for Walking”.

St. Columbkille Nun’s provided his entire education and he shared how the ruler was the heavy disciplinarian. He graduated in 1945, entering the Loras Academy with a History Major while working the night shift at the Dubuque Packing Co. Several years later, he interrupted schooling for the Military. Joining the Marine Corps League from 1949 to 1952, he served in the 34th Infantry Division and was deployed to Korea and Japan. He thrived on, “Once a Marine, always a Marine”. He shared many stories, including meeting General “Chesty”, Chester Puller, the most decorated Marine in history. He had the utmost respect for that “tough SOB”.

College was completed after the military and via fishing and jobs, many lifelong friends were made. Bill Schleuter (Specht’s Grocery), Ted Ellsworth (Diamond’s Hollywood Grille), and Mr. Skantleberry at John Deere receiving. While working at JP Cullen he helped with the construction of Hempstead High School.

Eventually, Dan took his king of the road attitude to Michigan. In Kalamazoo, he painted houses and lovingly cared for his aunt’s cucumber beds. Dan had two major passions in life, bass fishing and painting. Fishing was his friendship magnet and his secret was “avoid the duck wart”. Dan had wonderful artistic skills; still lifes, rivers and landscapes got him the nickname of “Picture Painter”. His paintings remain in the Garnavilla Library and various places around Garnavilla and Dubuque. Dan’s highlight in life came when he and his sister Kate traveled abroad and he was able to kiss the Blarney Stone. That’s as good as it gets.

“The girls didn’t like me”, was his mantra but Jeanette Kolfenbach was his loyal girlfriend for years, until her passing.

Dan led a good and fulfilling life. His relatives were important, being Irish never got in his way, bass fishing attracted friends and painting relaxed him. His later years were spent at Manor Care, always encouraging others and remaining as active as possible. His nephew, Bill Kelly was his right-hand man and he will miss him dearly. What can you say except, He did it his way.

He is survived by his brothers Mike McCarron and Kevin McCarron, and his sister Kate Lampe; he cherished the Kelly Family and they include, Dr. Kathleen “Kit” A. Kelly (Dr. Fred Hoffer), Bill J. Kelly, (Candace Breiner), Bridget C. Heim (Leo Heim), Michaela M. Kelly, Maureen S. Kelly, Sheila J. Kelly, Shawn P. Kelly (Paula Herting Kelly), and Daniel T. Kelly (Cory O’Hara Kelly). He had many nieces, nephews and relatives and they will forever remember Uncle Dan.

He will join his parents; brothers Bob, Hugh and Patrick McCarron and sister Bridget “Connie” Kelly in Heaven.