Obituaries Archive

Thomas E. Wilhelm

Thomas E. Wilhelm, 81, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2026, at home surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will be held 2 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a military service will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral services.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa, with burial at the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137.

Thomas was born on July 14, 1944, in Dyersville, Iowa, son of John and Lorine (Benke) Wilhelm.  He married Judy Boge on May 21, 1966, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa. To this union, five children were born.

Thomas worked with Jasper Construction Company after graduating from Xavier High School. He served in the Iowa Army National Guard from 1965 to 1971. He began Wilhelm Excavating in 1993 until retirement, doing what he loved to do.

He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, and time spent outdoors with his family. He cherished his lawn in his later years, always particular in his craft.

Survivors include his loving wife of nearly 60 years, Judy; children: Brenda Niehaus of Dyersville, Tim (Diane) Wilhelm of Dyersville, Vicki (Steve) Specht of Holy Cross, Tracy (Dennis) Demmer of Farley, Peggy (Ryan) Ruden of Bernard; grandchildren: Thomas (Anne) Wilhelm, Josie (Brad) Hennen, Tristan Wilhelm, Sean (Amy) Specht, Lauren (Ryan) Peterson, Olivia Specht, Jared (Kayla) Demmer, Abby (Logan) Koopmann, Jacob Demmer, Jillian Ruden, Emmett Ruden; great-grandchildren: Evelyn and Theodore Specht, Beau Peterson, Maverick and Drake Hennen, Leo Demmer, Lylah Koopmann, and two more on the way; siblings: James (Norma) Wilhelm, Mary Ann Nachtmann, Charles (Donna) Wilhelm, all of Dyersville, and Jean Conrad of Bankston; in-laws: Steve (Marie) Boge, Marla Schmitt, Bev Engelken, Neal Boge.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Eugene “Pete” and Mary Boge; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren we never got to hold; brother, Henry “Heinie” (Judith) Wilhelm; in-laws: Gerald Conrad, Bruce Jacobs, Ken Boge, Bruce Boge, Norbert Nachtmann, and Bob Engelken.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque, St. Francis Xavier Parish, or Dubuque Conservation in reference to Heritage Trail which he frequented often.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Vincent C. Riniker

Vincent C. Riniker, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 4th, 2026, at West Ridge Care Center in Cedar Rapids.

Visitation will be on Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Graveside service will immediately follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Vincent Charles Riniker was born in Dubuque, Iowa on February 10, 1948, to Jacob and Bernice (Spoerl) Riniker. He grew up in Ryan, Iowa with his seven siblings and attended St. Patrick’s school.

Vince was united in marriage to Scherrie Jaeger on September 4, 1971.  Together they lived in Hopkinton, Iowa and welcomed three children. Chad (Heather), Sara (Joe) Lambert, and Laura (Nate) MacKenzie. They later went their separate ways.

On December 2, 1999, he married Beverly Loso. They lived in Dubuque until her passing in 2023. They enjoyed traveling, spending time with family, and their beloved dog Sam. With Bev he gained a second family. Misty (Don) Slaats, William Heacock, Garry (Carrie) Clauer, and Michael (May) Clauer.

Vince farmed for many years outside of Hopkinton before starting work at the Anamosa State Penitentiary where he worked as a corrections officer until retiring in 2010.

Vince loved gardening and canning. It made him happy to share his tomatoes, strawberries, asparagus and zucchini bread with all of his family and friends. He enjoyed card club with the OG’s, going out for Mexican food and watching the Hawkeyes and the Chiefs. Vince was an easy guy to like. He could talk to anyone and usually did.  He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and neighbors.

He is survived by his three children; four stepchildren; 16 grandchildren, who he was so proud of, Chloe, Mason, Mazzy, Kael, Xander, Lana, Ainsley, Flynn, Brandon, Tabitha, Leah, Sophia, Madison, Kirsten, Kamryn and AJ; five great-grandchildren, Bella, Chase, Ryder, Maverick, and Greyson; five siblings Lewis (Theresa) Riniker, Kathy (Randy) Deshaw, Ron Riniker, Janet Montover, and Wayne (Vicky) Riniker.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Wife Beverly; brother Loras Riniker; sister Diane Schwendinger; two grandsons, Blaine Schumacher and Tyler Clauer; and brother-in-law Bob Schwendinger.

Mary Decker

Mary Decker, 85, of Dubuque, passed away May 8, 2026.

Visitation will be from 4:00-6:00p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at 6:00p.m., with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Inurnment will take place in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Mary was born on October 24, 1940 to Ralph and Bernice (Bockenstedt) Hoeger.

She was united in marriage to Joseph Decker on June 30, 1959. He preceded her in death on November 23, 1988.

Mary farmed with her husband for 28 years in Balltown, IA.

She was a fabulous cook, working for both Walgreens and Bishops.

Mary had a soft spot for all animals and shared a special connection with her beloved dogs. She was also a 4H leader for several years.

She also loved taking pictures back in the day and receiving family photos more recently. She enjoyed keeping up with her kids and grandkids.

Mary enjoyed crocheting, sewing, and quilting, even sewing many of the children’s clothing.

Mary is survived by her children, Karen (Harry) Hayes, and Janet (Randy) Allen; grandchildren, Stephany (Ken) Dean, Zachary (Sara) Dowell, Thomas (Stephanie) Dowell, Kayci (Joe) Schumacher, Andrew Hayes, Holly (Luke) Goedert, Cathy (Adam) Merkes, and Michael Allen. Also surviving are 11 great-grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Joseph Decker; and in-laws, Joseph (Ida) Decker.

The family extends a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care, especially Sasha, Mandy, and Jill.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory are entrusted with arrangements.

Robert C. Caven

Robert C. “Bob” Caven, 98, of Maquoketa, Iowa, died on Saturday morning, May 9, 2026, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Robert Clayton Caven was born on October 10, 1927 in Maquoketa to Denzil and Clella (Raab) Caven.  He attended East Iron Hill and West Iron Hill country schools and graduated from 8^th grade at the Emeline country school.  He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1945.  He enlisted in the U.S. Army near the end of World War II.  He attended the University of Iowa for 3 years and then worked at Clinton Engines.  In 1961, he became a real estate agent for the John L. Jones Agency.  He later became a partner with Donald F. Nissen at that agency and retired in 1990.

In 1954, he married Jo Ann “Jo” Sagers.  To this union two children were born, Julie (Richard) Sherrard, and Bradley Caven.  For most of their married life they lived on the family farm near Iron Hill which has been in the family since 1877.

Bob enjoyed hunting big game out west as well as in Iowa, spending time on the family farm, and helping many friends and family members sight-in their guns for hunting season.

Survivors include Jo, his wife of 72 years; daughter and son-in-law Julie and Richard Sherrard of Baldwin, IA, son Brad of Andrew, IA; 2 grandchildren, Gabrielle Sherrard of Madison, WI, and Grant Sherrard of rural Maquoketa, IA; one great-grandson Julian Alexander of Madison, WI; siblings, Bill (Connie) Caven of CO, and Bonnie Caven of Clinton, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Jackie, Jim, and Don.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa, IA.  Private family services will be held at a later date.  Burial will be at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Memorials may be directed to the family.

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

Lavonne R. Peters

Lavonne Ruth Peters was born on December 27, 1933 to Lee Roy and Ruth (Mohr) Guyer in Maquoketa, Iowa. She was raised on the family farm south of Maquoketa and attended and graduated from Elwood High School and Iowa Teacher’s College.  Following graduation, Lavonne taught elementary school for one year in Manchester, Iowa.  In 1954 she was united in marriage to Floyd Peters and together they raised 7 children on their farm in rural Bellevue. Lavonne and Floyd cared for the land and raised crops, livestock and children together. 

Lavonne was a homemaker, teacher, caregiver, and friend, living a life of humble service to her family, neighbors, and community.  She provided this service in many ways including as the first woman to serve on the Andrew Community School Board and first woman Jackson County Soil Conservation Commissioner.  Lavonne was a 4-H club leader, religious education teacher, Jackson County Extension Council member, 4-H Youth Committee member, and was active in Andrew Petal Pals and Andrew Garden Club.  In 1990, Lavonne was honored as an Iowa Master Farm Homemaker recognizing her lived values of hard work and servant leadership.

Playing basketball and enjoying the outdoors were highlights of her early years. Supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren in their 4-H projects, sports, and other activities and spending time with them were important to her and brought her much joy.  All of this was possible because of her life of faith.  Lavonne and Floyd were active members of St. John’s Catholic Church in Andrew for over 50 years and Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook in later years.

Lavonne, 92, died peacefully on Friday, May 8th at the Jackson County Regional Health Center.  She is survived by daughters, Kathy (Kim) Keuter of Dubuque, Iowa, Karen Rohlf of Bennett, Iowa, Kim Peters of Maquoketa, Iowa, Kris (Brian) Schoeberl of Clear Lake, Iowa, and Karol (Gary) Fike of Westmoreland, Kansas; sons, Steve (Sherry) Peters and Charlie (Jenni) Peters, both of rural Bellevue, Iowa, 17 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren, two sisters, Beverly Reid and Ellen (Ron) LaFrentz, and sister-in-law Marcia Peters. Lavonne was preceded in death by husband Floyd, parents Lee Roy and Ruth Guyer, grandson Andrew Peters, sister Leone Geary, son-in-law Jim Rohlf, sister-in-law Lucille Deppe, and brothers-in-law Vince Geary, Richard Reid, Elmer Peters, and Allan Deppe.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Lavonne Peters Family and will be directed to the local Catholic Church community, Jackson County 4-H, and Jackson County Regional Health Center.

Funeral mass will be held 10:00 am, Thursday May 14, 2026 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook.  Visitation will be held 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Wednesday, May 13 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, Iowa.  Additional visitation will be from 9:00 am to 9:45 am prior to Mass at the church with a rosary beginning at 9:15 am.  Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery, Andrew, Iowa.

Andrew C. Witter

Andrew C. Witter, 42, of Dubuque, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Owls Head, ME, while working with his crew on a golf course.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 5:45 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Andrew will be at 6:00 pm on Friday, May 15, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Terry Bemis officiating. Burial will be at Asbury Cemetery at a later date.

Andrew was born February 28, 1984, in Dubuque, IA, the son of David and Robin (Cottrell) Witter.

Andrew graduated from Hempstead High School in 2002. He had been working for Leibold Irrigation for the last 18 years and was well known by his nickname, “Waldo.”

Andrew enjoyed traveling both for work and leisure. he loved snowboarding, skiing, and taking his motorcycle out on the open road. Above all else, his family and friends meant the world to him, and he cherished every moment spent with those he loved. Andrew will be remembered for his strong work ethic, kind heart, and the way he treated his co-workers like family.

Survivors include his father, David (Michelle) Witter of Dubuque; brother, Aaron (Megan) Witter of Dubuque; sister, Hannah Witter; nieces, Madison (Joe) Vize, and Ava Witter both of Dubuque; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Robin Maiden; paternal grandparents, Carl and Carmelita Witter; maternal grandparents, John and June Cottrell; one brother, Mike DeMuth; and one sister, Naomi Witter.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Gerald M. Schroeder

Doris M. Wiederholt

Doris M. (Donovan) Wiederholt, 89, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away on Friday evening, May 8, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Church at Sinsinawa, WI. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family and friends may visit from 9:15 – 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Doris was born on August 16, 1936, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Leo and Bessie (Graham) Donovan. She was a graduate of St. Joseph Academy in Dubuque. She met Kenneth L. Wiederholt at a dance at Melody Mill Ballroom in Dubuque. They united in marriage on May 5, 1956 at St. Joseph of the Prairie Church, Dubuque County, Iowa. Together they owned and operated Wiederholt Agri Service, along with farming in rural Hazel Green. They enjoyed traveling together and after retiring, spending their winters in Alamo, TX. Kenny preceded her in death on November 14, 2021.

Doris was a member of St. Joseph Parish and the Council of Catholic Women. Faith and family were a very important part of her life. She was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother.

Doris was very proud of her Irish heritage, and one could often hear her favorite singer Daniel O’Donnell playing in the kitchen. Doris had a passion quilting, especially with her “sewing ladies”. She also enjoyed playing euchre, dominos, and tending to her flowers. It brought her great joy to have grandchildren and great-children visit.

Surviving are three children, Ken (Kim) Wiederholt and Steve (Linda) Wiederholt both of Hazel Green, WI, and Sharon (Dennis) Watters of Cuba City, WI, a daughter-in-law, Karen Wiederholt of Hazel Green, WI; nine grandchildren, Ricky Wiederholt, Katie (A. J.) Vogt, Tony (Ashley) Wiederholt, Haley (Andrew) Lindenberg, Becky (Luke) Hill, Nicole (Wade) Black, Eric (special friend Penny) Wiederholt, Scott (fiancé Lea Kieffer) Wiederholt, and Neil Wiederholt; 12 great grandchildren; a sister, Rita (Tom) Kurt of Cascade, IA; in-laws, Ardella “Toots” Leibold of East Dubuque, IL, Judy (Carl) Timmerman, Cuba City, WI, and Everett Runde of Platteville, WI, and Eileen Donovan of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Bessie, her husband, Ken, two sons, Dale and Randy Wiederholt; son-in-law, Rick Wallenhorst; siblings, Bob Donovan, Jeanette (Jack) Fondell, and Roger Donovan; in-laws, Eileen “Beaner” Wiederholt, Shirley (Leonard) Ricke, Donna (Bob) Tippett, and Phyllis Runde; Peter Leibold, Don (Anna Mae) Wiederholt and father and mother-in-law, Wilbert “Mike” and Alice (Pluym) Wiederholt.

The family wishes to thank her in-home care givers, the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for the care provided for Doris.

In lieu of flowers and plants, a Doris Wiederholt memorial fund has been established for Doris’ favorite charities.

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

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

Susan K. Berthel

Susan K. (Morrow) Berthel, 62 of Miles, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026 at Mercy One in Dubuque.  A Celebration of Life will be held  4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, May 15, 2026 at Corey’s House at 17243 374th Avenue Bellevue, Iowa. 

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

Susan was born August 31, 1963, the daughter of Paul and Barbara (Eversoll) Morrow.  She married Roger Berthel on September 5, 2008.  Susan was a homemaker, enjoyed gardening and helping Roger on the farm.

Survivors include her husband, Roger; a son, Ben (Kym) Roling Whitten and Roger’s son, Corey (Aleshia) Berthel; grandchildren, Deacon, Parker, Ivy, and Veda; siblings, William (Roberta) Morrow, Gerald Morrow, a sister in-law, Pamela Morrow; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended family.

Susan was preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Timothy Morrow, a brother Paul Morrow and a sister in-law, Bonnie Morrow; and Roger’s son, Shawn Berthel.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

James P. Reilly

James “Jim” Patrick Reilly, 84, lifetime member of Dubuque, IA, died on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at the Veterans’ Home at Manteno, IL.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jim will be at 10:30 am on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Jim was born June 15, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Ray and Monica (Richter) Reilly. He graduated from Loras Academy and Loras College.

Jim proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1963 until he was honorably discharged in 1965. He was stationed in Germany and served as a Chaplain’s Assistant.

On August 19, 1967, he married Kathleen “Kay” Cook at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on December 29, 1992.

Jim worked in Product Support for John Deere Dubuque Works until he retired after 35 years. If the name John Deere came up he would always say “nothing runs like a Deere.”

When Jim was a member of Church of the Resurrection he served as a lector, Eucharistic Minister, and assisted with the fall festival. He was proud of the activities he assisted with at the church and was always happy to help wherever needed. Jim enjoyed staying active, whether it be exercising and swimming at the Dubuque YMCA or taking his daily walk around the neighborhood when the weather allowed. Jim’s devotion to St. Francis of Assisi was expressed in the simple joy he found in feeding the birds and squirrels either relaxing on his porch swing in the summer months and making sure in the winter all the animals that found their way to his porch were well fed. He also enjoyed watching the Chicago Cubs, an ice cold root beer, and a big bowl of ice cream.

After suffering a stroke in the summer of 2023, Jim went to live with his children in the Chicago suburbs. As his needs progressed, he moved to Manteno Veterans facility in the fall of 2024. He was a loved member of that community and they treated him with honor, dignity, and respect for his service to our country.

Survivors include his two sons, Kevin Reilly of Oak Forest, IL, and Jim (Grace) Reilly of Orland Park, IL; three grandchildren, Athena, Jason, and Jonathan; eight great-grandchildren, Leo, Isaiah, Tessa, Enzo, Roman, Riley, Rocco, and Remi; son-in-law, Dan Sujack; and two sisters, Sharon Ehlinger of Dubuque, and Maureen “Mickey” (Mike) Digman.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Kay; one daughter, Laura Sujack; sister, Patricia Wemett; and brother-in-law, Dave Ehlinger.

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

Sr. Mary Lou Cota, PBVM

Sister Mary Lou Cota, PBVM, (formerly Sister William Marie) 88, died on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, Iowa.

On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, friends may call from 9:30 – 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a wake service at 9:30 a.m. and funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Sister Lou, daughter of William and Marie (Hawes), was born on June 15, 1937, as Mary Lou Cota, in Harpers Ferry, Iowa. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation on September 8, 1955, and professed her perpetual vows on August 21, 1963.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College and a Master of Arts from St. Mary’s College, Winona, Minnesota. Sister Lou’s ministries took her to Ryan, Lawler, Farley, and Dubuque (St. Columbkille), all in Iowa, and St. Dorothy School and Augustus Tolton Catholic Academy, both in Chicago, Illinois, where she taught general science, physics, biology and computer science. After retiring from teaching, she served as a volunteer at St. Dorothy Parish and St. Gerard Majella Parish in Markham, before returning to Mount Loretto in 2021. She celebrated her 60th Jubilee in 2015.

Deeply committed to justice, Sister Lou lived a life of quiet courage, deep compassion and unwavering faith. She immersed herself in diverse ministries, embracing every person she met with warmth and respect and celebrating the beauty in every culture. Whether volunteering in her parishes, visiting those who were homebound or simply sharing a conversation, she made everyone feel seen and valued. Sister Lou had a remarkable ability to connect across differences, to recognize the dignity in every person and to inspire others through her example of kindness and justice. Her life was a testament to the Presentation mission – bringing light, hope and love wherever she went.

Surviving are her sisters, Gena (Paul) Kramer and Sister Mary Kay, brother, Rich (June), nieces, nephews and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 70 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Rose (Leo) Foley, Shirley (Jim) Scholle, and her brothers, Jerry (Marion), Robert (Mary Lou) and Leon (Ruth), and brother-in-law, Mel Jones.

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

Dr. Samuel J. Sullivan

Dr. Samuel J. Sullivan, 82, of Dubuque passed away Monday May 4,2026 due to complications from a stroke.  Sam died peacefully surrounded by loved ones in prayer.

Visitation for Dr. Sam will be held from 4 to 7pm, Tuesday, May 12th at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday May 13th at 10:30 am at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque.

Dr. Sam (Doc) was born on January 13, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Leo & Margaret (Fortmann) Sullivan.  Sam graduated from Senior High School and continued his education at National College of Chiropractic in Lombard, Illinois and graduated in Chiropractic in 1967.  He later received a diplomat from the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists. Dr. Sam was a Chiropractor and caregiver in Dubuque for the past 59 years and he was in practice with his son, Dr. Jim for 36 years.

Sam was married to his high school sweetheart Lavonne Lorraine Pfohl at St Mary’s Church in Dubuque on November 26, 1964 and they were married for 62 years.  Sam was a devoted father and grandfather to 4 children and 14 grandchildren. They were his pride and joy! Their favorite times were spent together at the family’s cottage on the Mississippi with “Grandpa Sam” hosting his famous fish fries for family and friends. Summer evenings were spent by the campfire sharing stories and Grandpa Sam’s famous jokes.  Sam and Lavonne also enjoyed their travels.

Sam was a past member of Thunder Hills Country Club and is a current member of the 660 Dubuque Shooting Society. When he wasn’t with his family, he enjoyed golfing, bowling and playing cards with his buddies.

Sam is survived by his wife Lavonne, of Dubuque, Iowa, his four children, Dr. Jim (Anita) Sullivan of Dubuque, IA, Darla (J.D.) Sullivan-White of Dallas, Texas, Dr. Sandra Sullivan of Dallas, Texas, Mark (Agi) Sullivan of Madison, Wisconsin.  Fourteen grandchildren, Patrick (Sofia) Sullivan, Alex Sullivan, Christopher (Katherine) Sullivan, Peter (Mikayla) Sullivan, Joseph Sullivan, Maggie Sullivan, Logan White, Sophia White, Sam Sullivan White, Lucas White, Isabella Sullivan, Carynne Sullivan, Nolan Sullivan, & Abigail Sullivan.  He is also survived by siblings Gene Sullivan and Ginger Bower.

He is preceded in death by his siblings Joyce, Suzanne, Mickey, John L., Judy, and Sandy.

In lieu of flowers a Dr. Sam Sullivan Memorial Fund has been established.

Mary Anne Barry

Mary Anne (Funk) Barry, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Tuesday May 5, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital surrounded by her family.

Family and friends may visit on Monday, May 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. At 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, there will be a gathering for sharing memories, also at Leonard Funeral Home.  Interment will take place at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook Page.

Mary Anne was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on May 4, 1953, to Francis “Bud” and Rita (Conry) Funk.  She attended Nativity Grade School in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1971.

On November 24, 1973, she was united in marriage to Dennis Barry at The Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.

Mary Anne spent many years as a homemaker and stay at home mom until her children were all in school. She then began working as a pharmacy technician, a job she enjoyed and excelled at. She was promoted to Lead Technician shortly after starting and worked at Eagle Country Market for most of her career.  She was also a bartender at Dubuque American Legion Post 6 and made many friends during that time.

She was funny, stubborn and independent. She always made sure everyone had what they needed and rarely sat still for long. Mary Anne was up for anything and over the years she country line danced with Dennis, played darts, jumped into pools in pajamas and got into mischief with friends.

In addition to baking, cooking, listening to music and watching true crime shows, she loved puttering in the yard and looked forward to planting flowers each spring.

Mary Anne was a member of the Dubuque American Legion Post 6 Auxiliary.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Dennis; their children Jennifer Nadermann and James Barry of Dubuque, Kathryn Ties and grandson Cooper Ties of Iowa City.  She is also survived by her brother William Funk, of Eudora, Kansas, sister-in-law Maureen Barry, brother-in-law Patrick (Patty) Barry of Dubuque, sister-in-law Connie Funk, of Kalamazoo, Michigan, as well as aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, parents in law, brothers Michael and Patrick Funk, and sons in law Brian Ties and Korey Nadermann.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Herman and the nursing staff at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital.

Norma Mae Apel

Norma Mae (Steger) Apel, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, was welcomed into her Lord’s loving arms on May 5, 2026.

Public visitation will be held at Nativity Church, 1225 Alta Vista St., in Dubuque, Iowa, on May 15th beginning at 9 a.m. followed by her funeral mass officiated by Very Rev. Dennis Quint at 10:30 a.m. and interment at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa, is assisting the family.

Born December 23, 1931, in Dyersville, Iowa, Norma spent her earliest years on her grandfather’s farm and was the second oldest of five children. She was a good-natured kid who got along well with others. But she also had a certain determination and resolve, which got her into trouble when her brothers wouldn’t let her ride a bicycle they were told to share. One day, when it was laying in the grass, she picked up a pitchfork and flattened both tires.

It’s possible this was one of the only times she did anyone wrong. Norma had keen maternal instincts from a young age, which only deepened after the loss of her father in a drowning accident when she was just 14. In the years after, while her mother was busy working, Norma would head home after Catholic school to cook, bake, clean and sew for the family. After graduating high school, she worked at All Steel, which she always said was her favorite job.

Norma married her husband of 61 years, Frannie, on June 9, 1956, at Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville. They moved to San Diego for a short time (which Norma would always say was her favorite place to live) but eventually returned to Frannie’s hometown of Dubuque to settle in for the rest of their lives.

As the matriarch of her family, Norma was a devoted wife and mother who is remembered as loving, caring, kind and selfless. She entertained the kids with family boating and camping in the summers on the Mississippi. She kept the home running with her delicious meals and always offered dessert (including her famous rhubarb custard and grape pies, her crust made from scratch). She was very involved in her children’s activities, including by serving as a Webelos den leader. And she was a protector. In the winters, she would have the kids put bread bags over their feet before putting on their boots so their feet would never be wet or cold when walking to school in the snow.

Even as she grew older, Norma had a timeless beauty, stylish down to the large collection of shoes she maintained. She also moved with the stamina of someone half her age. She would wake up before dawn to walk to morning mass at Nativity, then head straight to Loras College to swim laps. She also enjoyed long walks on the Heritage Trail, gardening and picking vegetables—often with one of her many grandchildren in tow. She kept her mind busy, whether through reading the daily newspaper, crossword puzzles, or a favorite book. After the kids were raised, she learned to read music and took piano lessons to refine her playing. A supporter of the arts, Norma enjoyed local classical concerts and going to the theater.

Norma was well-traveled. She criss-crossed the country on long road trips with Frannie and their grandkids in their signature blue Astro van—hiking in the Southwest, seeing shows in Branson, Mo., and going to Disney World in Florida. She had a thirst for learning history and connecting with people from different backgrounds, expanding her worldview through trips to Guatemala, Mexico, London, Paris, and even South Korea. The people, she always said, were so nice.

But of course, so was she. Norma never seemed to get mad or upset—or if she did, she still remained calm. She was affable through and through, with a warmth, approachability, wry sense of humor and a big smile and giggle—especially when she got to see the great-grandkids get into mischief—that made her a pleasure to be around. Many also remember Norma as wholesome. She didn’t swear or drink alcohol, and she loved the farmers market and organic fruits and vegetables. However, she did have at least one vice: four pats of butter on a Panera bear claw.

Norma is survived by children Carla Hiatt of East Dubuque, Ill., Francis (Judy) Apel of Stoughton, Wis., Jeff (Cindy) Apel of East Dubuque, Ill., and Steve (Pernilla) Apel of Vinton, Iowa; grandchildren Lisa LeConte, Jennifer (Bill) Graham, Jeff (Cassie) Hiatt, Kurtis Hiatt (Danny Schmidt), Sister Incarnata Apel, O.P., Thomas Apel, Rebekah Apel, Benjamin Apel, Joe Apel, Wade (Christina) Grimsford, Matt (Paige) Apel, Brandon Apel (Hannah Johnson), Derek Apel; great-grandchildren Clara LeConte, Anna Graham, William Graham, Miles Hiatt, Mila Hiatt, Theo Hiatt and Esther Hiatt Schmidt; best friend Nellie Splinter; sisters-in-law Diane Post, Darlene Steger, Celie Steger, and Patti Steger; and brother-in-law Eugene Schmitz.

Norma is predeceased by husband Francis “Frannie” Apel; parents Sylvester and Rosalia (Quint) Steger; son Kevin Apel; brothers Donald, Vernon and Paul Steger; sister Rosemary Schmitz; son-in-law Tom Hiatt; mother-in-law and father-in-law Angeline and Francis Apel; and sisters-in-law Janaan Eudaley and Norma Beam.

Norma’s family extends its gratitude to the many individuals who helped care for her, including Grand Meadows-Asbury staff (okey-doke Taylor), Asbury Emergency transport, Paramount transport, Finley Emergency and Finley Hospital staffs (Shelby and Lisa—and no, Lisa, you can’t take Norma home with you!), NP Sherri, Dr. Pierotti and nurse Ann, Dr. Konz and nurse Cheri, Dr. Khan and staff, and Hospice of Dubuque staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dubuque Humane Society, honoring Norma’s love of dogs—especially the injured or retired greyhounds she adopted from the racing park.

Home again, home again, jiggety jog.

Mark J. Biermann

Mark J.  Biermann, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026 Initiative Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for Mark will be held from 5 to 7 p.m., on Monday, May 11, 2026, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.  Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born on March 8, 1950 in Dyersville, Iowa, one of twins to Raymond and Dorothy (Ries) Biermann.

He was employed as a Hair-dresser, he then worked at the Saddle Shop in Iowa Falls and traveled to Horse Shows all over.  He later worked at Sears in Des Moines, Iowa.  He then moved to Branson, and then returned to Dubuque where he was employed at Hartig Drug.

He was a very independent personality, he had a very quiet demeanor.  He enjoyed reading and drawing.  He used to enjoy horseback riding.

He is survived by his siblings, Don (Janet) Biermann of Dubuque, IA, LeRoy (Shirley) Biermann Peosta, IA, Kenny Biermann of Farley, IA, Paul (Kathy) Biermann of Epworth, IA and his twin Marilyn Hawkins of Cascade, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his brothers and sisters-in-law, David and Doris Biermann, Robert and LaVonne Biermann, Donna Biermann, and Dave Hawkins.

Online condolences sent to the family at ww*********************@***il.com

The family of Mark would like to thank the entire staff of Initiative Care, Hospice of Dubuque for the care and compassion given to Mark and to all the friends and relatives for your support, visits, and prayers.