Obituaries Archive

Chester P. Smith

Chester Paul Smith, Jr., 84, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 9:40 a.m. Saturday, May 29, 2021 at home after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, June 4, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a funeral service will be at 7:00 p.m. Friday.

Chester was born on October 2, 1936 at Scales Mound, IL, the son of Chester and Charlotte (Brummer) Smith, Sr. He was united in marriage to Donna Blauvelt on July 19, 1997 in Dubuque, IA.

He was a graduate of St. Columbkille’s High School in Dubuque and was previously employed at the Dubuque Packing Co., then became a foreman for FDL and Farmland Foods in the Sausage Dept.  He currently worked at Walmart in Galena and will be remembered for breakfast with Chester where all of the proceeds went to the Children’s Miracle Network.

Chester served in the Army National Guard, loved fastpitch softball, bowling and traveling.

Surviving is his wife, Donna (Blauvelt) Smith; two daughters, Tina (Geoff) Luzier and Kathy (Tom) Feldman; two step-sons, Ben Blauvelt and Andrew (Chrystal) Blauvelt; seven grandchildren; two brothers, David (Sandy) Smith of Dubuque and Fred Smith of California.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Daniel Thomas Smith; and by sisters, Wanda Braund, Shirley Ann Smith and Mary Lou Smith.

Chester’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque for all of their support at this difficult time and for all they do.

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

Teresa M. Joens

Teresa M. (McCarthy) Joens, 36, of Marion, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, from a two in a half year battle with Leukemia, with her husband by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 3, 2021 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with The Rev. Peter Snieg and The Rev. Mark Murphy concelebrating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be at 4:45 p.m. Wednesday.  There will be a private visitation for family only on Thursday morning at the funeral home. The funeral mass will be live-steamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.

Teresa was born on October 1, 1984 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of James W. and Cathy M. (Jasper) McCarthy.  She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 2003. Teresa graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. Teresa was employed as a Data Analyst at Raining Rose in Cedar Rapids, IA.

On May 28, 2016 she was united in marriage to Richard L. Joens at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. Teresa and Richard welcomed their only child, Christian on February 23, 2018. Christian was born prematurely with a birth defect and Teresa devoted all of her time to care for their child and never left his side while in the hospital. Due to her diligence, he was able to fully recover and is thriving.

She loved her husband and son, Christian deeply. Teresa enjoyed making people happy, a love for dogs, listening to NPR, cheering on her Hawkeyes and had a fierce love for her nieces and nephews. Amongst her hobbies she enjoyed traveling, art, history and was an amazing reader. On their honeymoon to Europe they enjoyed the Art Museums of Italy and also visited Paris, France. Her favorite city was Venice, Italy, and she looked forward to going back there again someday.

Surviving is her husband Richard; their son, Christian Dean Joens; her parents, Jim and Cathy (Jasper) McCarthy; and sister, Jessica (Patrick) Winders both of East Dubuque, and her brother, William McCarthy of Dubuque, IA; nieces and nephews, Alexander & Lucas Winders and Owen & Norah McCarthy; grandparents, Delores McCarthy of East Dubuque and Ralph & Richene Jasper of Dubuque; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Robert & Dianne Joens of Riceville, IA, in-laws, Daryl (Brenda) Joens of Osage, IA, and their children, Bailey, Jenna and Jackson, and Darla Joens of West Des Moines, IA, and her daughter, Laticia Joens, and her fiance Cody Peterson.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, James L. McCarthy.

Richard and family would like to extend special thanks to the Oncology Teams at UIHC, Iowa City, and Mercy Hospital, Cedar Rapids, and to CarePro of Cedar Rapids for the wonderful care given to Teresa.

In lieu of flowers, a Teresa M. Joens memorial fund has been established.

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

Lael T. Larkin

Lael Theresa Larkin, 75, passed away on May 8, 2021, at St. Dominic Villa at Sinsinawa, following a 6-week battle with cancer. A gathering will be held from 2 to 4 PM, Sunday, June 6, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. The funeral mass will be 11 AM, Monday, June 7, 2021, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Hazel Green, WI officiating will be Fr. Dan Davis. A committal service will be held in Calvary Cemetery, Sioux City, IA at 9:30 AM on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, officiated by Deacon Fred Karpuk.

Daughter of Philip and Eileen (McGrane) Larkin, Lael was born on October 27th, 1945, in Sioux City, IA. Her parents were the proprietors of the Larkin Funeral Homes. She shared her childhood with her eight siblings, Shaun, Michael, Maureen, Gene, Kevin, Kerry, Robert (Dennis), and Padraic. She attended Blessed Sacrament Elementary and graduated from Bishop Heelan Catholic High School in 1963. She went on to complete her nurse’s training at Saint Vincent Hospital School of Nursing in 1967. Lael was married to Daniel C. Smith from 1972-1977, and they had three “wonderful children” (as she always said). She practiced nursing in a variety of settings including mental health, chemical dependence recovery, and nursing homes. She worked in multiple cities including Minneapolis, MN; Dubuque, IA; Sioux City, IA; Steamboat Springs, CO and Sioux Falls, SD. She spent the largest portion of her nursing career as the Director of Nursing at the Good Samarian Village in Sioux Falls, SD. She moved to Hazel Green, WI, in 2007, and resided at the Academy Senior Apartments in Sinsinawa for the past 12 years.

Lael was an exceptionally loving mother, grandmother, sister, nurse, and friend. She had an unabated passion for caring for others, and she left a tremendous impression on those whose lives she touched. The size of her heart was felt in her beautiful smile, her infectious laugh, and her comforting hugs. She loved to tell stories, and she took great joy in the successes of her children and grandchildren. She loved attending sporting events, musical performances, plays, and graduations. She was a prolific writer. Additionally, her spirituality and faith were endless. As a nurse, Lael appreciated the wisdom that came with age and the dignity that is deserved with illness and vulnerability. She was immersed in the often difficult balance of maintaining a successful career and being a single mother, while still providing leadership and compassion to her patients and colleagues. Somehow, throughout the trials of life and the illness she battled, Lael was always able to demonstrate courage, faith, compassion, and an ever-present sense of humor. She will be missed terribly, but her love and light will carry on indefinitely through her family and friends.

Lael is survived by her three children: Rebecca Kruse (Chad) of Galena, IL; David Smith (Hillary Howard) of Denver, CO; Barbara Smith (Marc Ternes) of San Marcos, CA; and her nine grandchildren: Evan, Ellis, Claire, Cole, Nixon, Eli, Orly, Rocky, and Tali. In lieu of flowers, Lael requested that all memorials are given to Hospice of Dubuque @ https://hospiceofdubuque.org/donation

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

Mary K. Donohue Levens

Mary K. Donohue Levens, age 82 of Galena, IL passed away Monday, May 17, 2021. Funeral mass will be 11:30 AM, Saturday, June 12, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena. Friends may call from 10:30, Saturday, June 12, 2021, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena. Burial will be in St. Michaels cemetery, Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born December 2, 1938, in Galena, the daughter of Francis J. and Lenora (Bussan) Donohue. Mary graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1956 and attended Clarke College. Mary was united in marriage to Ronald Levens on July 11, 1959.  She worked at the Dowling House and the Little Britch’in Post.  She was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Mary is survived by her husband, Ronald, three children, Scott (Linda) of Huntsville, AL, Ronda of St. Louis, MO, and Michael (Lara) of Galena, three grandsons, Justin (Laura) Levens, Nicholas and Benjamin Rosenthal, two granddaughters, Annette Davison and Sara Levens, three great- grandchildren, Shelby Davison, Felix and Greta Levens, one sister, Pat Longtin, two bothers in-law, Thomas (Barbara) Levens of Belvidere, IL and John “Dick” (Linda) Levens of Mission Viejo, CA, three sisters in-law, Elaine Smith of Hazel Green, WI, JoAnn Hubbard of Newport Richey, FL, Grace Bins of Bloomington, IL and special friends Doris Glick of Galena and Mary Rettenmeier of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother in infancy, Michael Donohue, her husband’s parents Justin and Alberta Levens, four brothers’ in-law, John Longtin, Earl Smith, Frank Bins and Dan Levens.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Midwest Medical Center, Galena, Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten. Online condolences maybe left for the family at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Debra C. Krier

Debra C. (McClain) Krier, age 66, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 5:45 p.m., on Friday, May 28, 2021, at her home with her loving family at her side.  To celebrate Debra’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Debra’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, June 3, 2021 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Debra was born on February 22, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Herbert and Elizabeth (Honerbum) McClain.

Debra graduated from Dubuque Senior High School.  She was a hard worker and was employed with the Telegraph Herald, Mercy Family Pharmacy, which became MercyOne, and also with Stonehill Care Center.  When she was able to find a little free time for herself, Debra loved to sit and quietly read a good book, crochet and put together jigsaw puzzles.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Church until its closing when she began attending Sacred Heart Church.  Her family meant the world to her and Debra always made sure that everyone knew how loved they were and that they were well taken care of.  Debra will truly be missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Debra’s memory include

her children,
Debra E. (Scott Huff) Ballew,
David A. Krier
and Daniel H. (Jodie) Krier, all of Dubuque, IA;

her 6 grandchildren,
Marissa, Katelyn, Justin, Olivia, Natalie, Christian and Jace;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Mariya, Lanaya, Messiah and Caspian;

her siblings,
Joan (Jim) Reinsbach, Fennimore, WI,
Willard McClain
and Dennis (Ann) McClain, both of Hazel Green, WI;

and several nieces and nephews.
Debra was preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Maranda Ann; her brother, Bob McClain Sr.; and a nephew, Joseph McClain.

Debra’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mercy and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kindness and support throughout Debra’s battle with cancer.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Debra’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Debra Krier Family.

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

Robert A. Clark

Robert Allen Clark, 80, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 27, 2021 at his home surrounded by family.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 31, 2021, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church located at 1755 Delhi St. in Dubuque with Pastor Josh Martyn officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service at the church.

Robert was born on October 5, 1940, in Jackson County, Iowa the son of Walter and Irma (Manning) Clark. He grew up in the rural Maquoketa area. Robert married Mary E. Nielsen on August 14, 1960, and together they shared almost 60 years of marriage.

Robert worked as a welder for Caterpillar in Eldridge, IA for 16 years. Robert and Mary then ran R & M Auto Sales in Maquoketa, IA. After his retirement he worked at Lowe’s for 6 years.

Robert enjoyed nature, gardening, traveling, hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. In his free time, he would catch up on the news and attend the occasional auction.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary; his children, Douglas (Pennie) Clark of San Pedro, CA, Jim (Michelle) Clark of Dubuque, IA, Robert Clark of Milton, FL, Jessica Klein of Dubuque, IA, and Amy (Tony) Quatrochi of Zwingle, IA; his siblings Ronald Clark of Deming, NM, Darlene (Dave) Densmore and Mona Kay Christofferson all of Camanche, IA. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Corinne Clark; and brothers, Dale, Donald, Jerry, and Elmer Clark.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Cao, Dr. Whalen, Dr. Khan and his nurse Greg from ICU at Finley Hospital for the wonderful care they provided to Robert.

Nona R. Nigg

Nona Rita (Schroeder) Nigg, 89 died on May 24, 2021 of natural causes at the home of her daughter in Minneapolis.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, June 4th at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of services Friday at the church.

 Nona was born September 3, 1931 in Dyersville, Iowa, the daughter of Mary K. (Macke) and Joseph F. Schroeder. She graduated from St. Francis Xavier High School in Dyersville and received her degree in English with honors from Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, Iowa.  Nona taught school for a short time in Hampton, Iowa before moving to Dubuque to work at the Telegraph Herald. She lived in Dubuque until 2018. Nona met her husband, Jim at a poetry writing class in Dubuque and they were married at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville on October 6, 1956. She later worked as a proofreader and editor at WC Brown Company publishers, did freelance writing and editing for the local magazine, Julien’s Journal, and worked 12 years for Project Concern as an Information and Referral specialist – a job in which she greatly enjoyed helping people. Nona also volunteered at Project Concern, St. Anthony’s church and school, phone-a-friend crisis line, girl scouts and more. She was a member of St. Anthony’s parish for many years where she was a member of the Emmaus Community and a volunteer on Prayer Line. An avid reader who enjoyed book clubs, Nona would often share high-quality books with her family and others, and with her legendary memory, quoted poetry apt to many a situation. Travels took her to Alaska, Florida beaches, California, Niagara Falls, the Grand Canyon and everywhere her children lived.

In her last years she was a resident of Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque and Mt. Olivet Careview Home in Minneapolis where her daughter lived. She was able to spend the last year of her life at her daughter Catherine’s home during the pandemic – a great blessing for all. She was known throughout her life and even by her end-of-life caregivers for her love of books, thoughtful and creative writing, and her kind and gentle manner, quiet wisdom, constant ‘thank you’ and dry wit that brought many smiles to caregivers. She loved the beauty of nature and was always a faith-filled person seeking to understand and share her faith. Her most joyful times were raising her children and spent with family.

Nona is survived by her three children Joel (Angela) of Portland, OR; Stephen (Diane) of Anchorage, AK; Catherine Nigg of Minneapolis, MN; grandson Joseph James Nigg, step grandson Andy Waterworth and step great grandchildren Scarlett and Archer Waterworth; two sisters Elaine O’Neill (the late T. William O’Neill) and Lois Vasko (the late John Vasko).

Nona was preceded in death by her beloved husband James R. Nigg; her parents; brother LeRoy Schroeder and sister-in-law Janice (Sartor) Schroeder; a brother and sister-in-law John (Jack) and Joan (Haslett) Nigg; sister-in-law Shirley McDonough and brother-in-law Charles McDonough.

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

Alberta C. Conner

Alberta “Bert” C. Conner, 88, of Dubuque died Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at Stonehill Care Center. Private graveside services were held Saturday, May 29 at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Bert was born October 21, 1932 in Keokuk, Iowa, daughter of Albert and Thelma (Smith) Redlinger. In 1951 she married Cloyd Conner. Bert worked at a variety of jobs throughout the years and lived a simple life.

She loved to sew, knit and craft beautiful items for her family. Her homemade pies and pumpkin bread were family favorites. Bert was an avid football fan, especially the Hawks, and loved watching professional golf. Her family was most important to her, and she was always available to listen and offer a helping hand. She will be deeply missed!

She is survived by her daughter, Cindy (Tim) Pfiffner of Dubuque; grandchildren, Robin (Scott) Filseth of Dubuque and Lindsay (Jared) Nauholz of Cedar Falls; great grandchildren, Emily, Elaina, Elisabeth, Ava, Olivia and Lincoln and two sisters, Naoma (Marty) Flavin of South Carolina and Shirlee Clark of Colorado.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

Dorothy E. Frick

Dorothy E. Frick, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 7:10 a.m., on Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her family. To celebrate Dorothy’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue. To honor Dorothy’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday at Holy Ghost Church, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Dorothy was born on November 20, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Herman and Pauline (Armbruster) Frick.

Dorothy was a graduate of the Immaculate Conception Academy, Class of 1945. She was employed in the office with H&W for 45 years until she retired in 1992. She and her friend Betty Wiezorek also ran Custom Photo for 10 years. Dorothy’s faith was extremely important to her. She was a very active member of Holy Ghost Church and did volunteer work with the Shalom Retreat Center gift shop for 15 years. Dorothy was very creative as was evidenced with her flower arranging skills, making rosaries, and beautiful embroidery pieces. She was famous for the dish towels she made to donate to Holy Ghost Church every year. Her family meant the world to Dorothy and she enjoyed taking her nieces and nephews on short trips around the area and to the Wisconsin Dells. Dorothy was a kind and generous woman who always made time for others. She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Dorothy’s memory include several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Bertha (Leroy) Risley, Clara (John) Becker, Gertrude (Celestine “Sox”) Burkett, Leonard Frick, Coletta (Gilford “G.J.”) Hohnecker, Marian Schmerbach, Frank “Bud” (Esther) Frick, and Mae (Richard) Noel.

Dorothy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind and compassionate care of Dorothy and her family.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Dorothy’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Dorothy Frick Family.

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

Thomas J. Blaser

Thomas J. Blaser, age 56, of Peosta, passed away at 8:15 p.m., on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Tom’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Tom’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon Bill Biver officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Tom was born on December 28, 1964, in Dubuque, son of Gerald and Rosemary (Wagner) Blaser.

Tom attended St. Joseph the Worker Grade School and went on to graduate from Dubuque Senior High School.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Margaret “Maggie” Cavanaugh, on April 21, 1990, at St. John’s Episcopal Church. They were blessed to celebrate their 31st wedding anniversary together last month.  In October of 2002, Tom and Maggie bought Dubuque Fire Equipment, which they have proudly owned and operated ever since. They made a dynamic team and everyone knew how devoted Tom was to all of his clients. When he did have some free time on his hands, Tom spent as much time as possible in the great outdoors. He went camping, morel hunting, fishing and attended many of his children’s sporting events. Tom also liked spending time in the kitchen, using all of his latest gadgets to create some spectacular meals. Above all, Tom loved his family. He cherished time spent with Maggie and the kids, but everyone knew that his grandson was the apple of his eye. We are truly heartbroken at losing Tom in our daily lives, but we know that he is now resting peacefully, free of all the health issues he has faced so gracefully. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include

his loving wife,
Maggie Blaser, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Timothy (Nikki) Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA,
Allison (fiancé Tony Suckow) Blaser, Dubuque, IA
and William Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA;

his grandson,
Liam James “L.J.” Blaser, Cedar Falls, IA;

his siblings,
Jim (Lesa) Blaser, Minneapolis, MN,
Kim (Terry) Averkamp, Iowa City, IA,
Cindy (Craig) Manternach, Peyton, CO,
Mary Jo (Ken) Richmond, Phoenix, AZ
and Toni Cox, Winthrop, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; and his father-in-law, Terry Cavanaugh; and his mother-in-law, Jacqueline Hardin.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Hermann and the outstanding nurses and staff of Finley Hospital, for all of their kindness, compassion and professional care of Tom.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Tom’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Tom Blaser Family.

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

David E. Watters

David E. Watters, 73, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday afternoon, May 25, 2021 in Iowa City, Iowa. A graveside service with military rites will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

David Ellsworth Watters was born on October 28, 1947 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Oscar “Abe” and Virginia (Clark) Watters. He was a 1966 graduate of Maquoketa High School and served his country in the U.S. Army in the Vietnam War. He married Linda McCoy in 1968 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Thomas and John.

Upon receiving an honorable discharge, David worked at Wilson’s Packing in Cedar Rapids. He then moved his family to Maquoketa and worked at Caterpillar in Mount Joy until the plant closed. Shortly thereafter he moved to southern Arizona, returning to Maquoketa in 2019.

David was a member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether and the Andrew AMVETS Post #62.

Those left to honor his memory include two children, Thomas Watters of Maquoketa, IA, and John Watters of Maquoketa, IA; 1 grandchild, Kiley Watters; a brother, Larry Watters of Maquoketa, IA; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Jane Collins, and a grandchild Zachariah Watters.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a David E. Watters memorial fund has been established.

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

Timothy R. Schmitz

Timothy R. “Tim” Schmitz, age 67, of Dubuque, passed away at 4:55 p.m., on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital. To celebrate Tim’s life, the family will hold a gathering at a later date. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Tim was born on September 2, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of LeRoy J. and Rosemary (Basten) Schmitz of Potosi, Wisconsin.

Tim attended Potosi High School before joining the U.S. Army in March of 1971, to honorably serve his country. After his service Tim went to work for Caradco and then St. Regis Paper in Dubuque. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Linda Halverson, in 1975. They were blessed with 2 wonderful children and 30 years together before she sadly passed away in 2005. After they married, the couple relocated to the Big Sky State of Montana, where Tim went to work for the lumber mills. He lived there for many years before returning to Dubuque in 2018. When Tim found some free time in his days he enjoyed woodworking, playing cards and dominos and spending time outdoors fishing and hunting. His favorite pastime was riding his motorcycles. We are deeply saddened at Tim’s passing, but know that he is now at peace and free of all the health issues he has battled these past years.

Those left to cherish Tim’s memory include

his daughter,
Brandi (Michael) Stockton, Denver, CO;

his granddaughters,
Jessie and Nichole Stockton;

and his siblings,
Steve (Lynn) Schmitz, Dubuque, IA,
Libby (Wayne) Sides, Cuba City, WI,
Joseph (Rony Mohram) Schmitz, Falls Church, VA,
Mike (Deb) Schmitz, Dubuque, IA
and Rob Schmitz, Philippines.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Linda Schmitz; a son, Joshua Schmitz; a sister, Sandra Schmitz; and 3 brothers, Benjamin Schmitz, Nick Schmitz and Rick Schmitz; and his in-laws, Bud and Ella Halverson.

Tim’s family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire and Ambulance crew for their caring, respectful and professional care of Tim. Also thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Finley Hospital Emergency Department for their care and compassion.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Tim’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Tim Schmitz Family.

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

Bernice E. Watters

Bernice E. Watters, 95, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 24, 2021, at WestWing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, June 4, 2021 at First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. until service time on Friday at the church. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is in charge of the arrangements.

Bernice Ethel Hopson was born on August 1, 1925 near Iron Hill in Jackson County, Iowa, to James and Flora (Dutton) Hopson. She was a 1943 graduate of Maquoketa High School where arithmetic was her favorite subject. This love for math led her to a career in the banking industry. First working at Jackson State Bank and then Maquoketa State Bank where she was in the lending department and worked under the Vice President of the bank.

Bernice met her future husband when he moved into her neighborhood in her younger years. She married Milton M. Watters on May 5, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa. They had two daughters, Janiece and Joellen.

Bernice was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa and enjoyed dancing and playing cards. She always liked an adventure, loved to travel and had been all over the world except for Antarctica. She was especially proud of her family.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Janiece (and husband Dale Hinz) Mackenzie of Elwood, IA, and Joellen Wilson of Busselton, Western Australia; 4 grandchildren, Keesha, Sol, Abbie and Kate; 9 great-grandchildren; a special friend and companion since 1986 Jerry Feugen; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Milton on January 5, 1982, 4 brothers Earl, Francis, Ralph and Walter, and a sister Pearl Stoll.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Bernice E. Watters memorial fund has been established.

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

Shirley A. Ruff

Shirley A. Ruff, 87, of Dubuque, died Monday, May 24, 2021, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial for Shirley will be 10:30 am Friday, May 28, 2021, at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor Thomas E. Toale as the Celebrant. Entombment 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.

Shirley was born July 23, 1933, in Dubuque, the daughter of Carl and Kathryn Scholtes Waldbillig. On July 16, 1955, she married Philip J. Ruff at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died June 7, 2019.

She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High and worked for the Dubuque Community School System for 22 years.

She was a longtime member of St. Patrick Catholic Church, Mother’s Club, Precious Moments Club, and Power of Prayer.

Some of Shirley’s most treasured memories as a child were visiting the family farm in Otter Creek, Iowa where her mother grew up and then as an adult taking her children there too. Shirley enjoyed sewing for her children and being involved with their activities. She loved to travel and seeing new places. Shirley also enjoyed spending time with her family and she was always up for a good game of Euchre.

Survivors include her nine children, Thomas Ruff, Maria (Kevin J.) Kruser, Terrence (Jill Fondell) Ruff, and Michael Ruff, all of Dubuque, Rhonda (Steve) Balk of Clive, IA, Deborah Dolezal of West Bend, WI, Julie (Brian) Trentz and Eric (Stacey) Ruff, both of Bettendorf, IA; and Chris (Deb) Ruff of Marion, IA; 15 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Ron (Carrie) Waldbillig of Kansas City, MO; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two granddaughters, one grandson, and one brother, Robert Waldbillig.

A special thank you to the staff at Bethany Home for their loving care and support.

A Shirley Ruff memorial has been established.

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

Jerry D. Donath

Jerry D. Donath, age 64, of Dubuque, went home to be with the Lord at 6:58 a.m., on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Jerry’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, May 28, 2021, at Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church, 12805 Seippel Road. To honor Jerry’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, May 29, 2021, at Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church, with Pastor Lynn Spicer officiating. Burial will be at a later date following cremation. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Jerry was born on November 10, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Walter P. and Virginia L. (Davis) Donath.

Jerry grew up in Dubuque and attended school at Irving Elementary and Washington Middle School. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Ann Menadue, on December 12, 1985, in Dubuque. Jerry was a hard worker who was employed as a semi driver with different firms throughout the years including T&H Transportation, until his retirement in 2020, due to heath complications. He was also a very faithful and active member of Faith Temple United Pentecostal Church who truly loved his home bible study group. In his spare time, Jerry enjoyed going fishing, playing cards, entering Euchre tournaments and spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren. He and Mary also traveled extensively, with Alaska being one of their favorite destinations. We are deeply saddened at Jerry’s passing, but find some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully free of the health issues he has faced so bravely here on Earth.

Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory include

his wife,
Mary Ann Donath, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Luke Donath,
Jacob (Tasha) Donath,
Mallory (Joshua) Donath-Pavao,
Sam (Stephanie Jones) Donath
and Kya Donath, all of Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Sonora, Ava, Alannah, Joseph, Sophia, Brantley, Bentley, Carter and Tucker;

his siblings,
Rick (Mary) Donath,
Walter R. Donath,
Brenda Briggs
and Greg (Nadine) Donath, all of Dubuque, IA;

and two sisters-in-law,
Cindy Donath, Dubuque, IA
and Connie (Alvin) LeGrand, Zwingle, IA.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Owen Donath; his in-laws, Joseph R. Menadue and Rita M. Menadue; two brothers-in-law, Sidney Hines and Richard J. Menadue; a sister-in-law, Kathy L. Menadue; and a niece, Kristina Donath.

Jerry’s family would like to thank all of his care givers and friends throughout the years including Dr. Whalen and his nurses, Jeremy, Kristy and Wendy, Pastor Spicer, and all of the members of the Faith Temple Family. Your care and support have meant the world to us.

The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Jerry’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jerry Donath Family.