Obituaries Archive

Don R. Helms

Don Ray Helms, 82, of Bellevue passed away peacefully after a short illness on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.

A celebration of Don’s life will be with a funeral service at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 16, at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  A visitation will be from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 15, also at the funeral home.

Don was born to Kenneth Lee and Mildred Lenora (Thomas) Helms on December 17, 1938 in Warrick County, Indiana.  He was named after Don Ameche, a popular movie star in the 1930’s.  He grew up in Paradise, Indiana and graduated from Newburgh High School in 1956.  Don earned his Bachelors of Science in Wildlife from Purdue University in 1961 and his Masters of Science in Fisheries from Southern Illinois University in 1964.  Don married Bonnie Tichenor on September 10, 1961.  They moved to Swisher, Iowa in 1964.  In 1966, they moved to Bellevue, where they raised four children.

Don worked for the Iowa Conservation Commission (now the DNR) 1964-1977 as a fisheries research biologist.  For 10 years, he was Iowa’s only fisheries biologist assigned to the Mississippi River.  After leaving this position, he was employed as a consultant for a Colorado firm (Ecology Consultants, Inc. which later became ERT/Environmental Research & Technology).  He managed their Mississippi River field office in Bellevue.  He was also Project Manager for the monitoring of Commonwealth Edison’s 16-megawatt nuclear power station near Cordova, IL to determine its effects on the Mississippi River.

In 1986 he started his own consulting business, Helms & Associates.  He conducted numerous surveys and assessments for the presence of threatened and endangered species with a specialty in freshwater mussels.  Don is well-known in the mussel community and highly regarded for his expertise.

In addition, Don enjoyed trapping turtles, digging ginseng, fur trapping, and other miscellaneous outdoor activities.  He was an avid gardener with three large gardens.  He grew corn, beans, peas, potatoes, tomatoes, and more.  He also had a vineyard and several types of fruit trees.  What he did not eat or give away, he and the family would can and freeze for winter or off season use.  Don was also the family historian.  He spent many hours researching and documenting the family genealogy including visiting gravesites across the Midwest.  He has records for over 15,000 individuals.  Before her death in 2018, Don’s life was devoted to “his Bonnie”.  Even after her death, he shared a special bond with her and would keep fresh flowers from his garden and yard on her grave.

Don is survived by his four children, Scott Helms (Reena Winkowski), of Bellevue; Jane (Walter) Wickham, of Maquoketa; Lisa Dague, of Urbandale, Iowa; and Susan (Daryl) Hankemeier, of Bellevue; 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.  One brother, Kenneth (Judy) Helms of Sharpsville, Indiana.  Don was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie, and his parents.

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

Noah H. Riniker

Noah Henry Riniker, 41, of Sterling, IL, formerly of Galena, IL, died Sunday, Aug. 8, 2021, at CGH Medical Center, Sterling, succumbing to his life-long foe, pneumonia.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 17, 2021 at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church at Menominee, IL, with Fr. Dennis Vargas and Fr. David Flanagan concelebrating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at Nativity BVM Church on Tuesday. For his many friends at his second home, a Celebration of Life observance will be held Saturday, August 28, 2021, from 1 – 3 p.m. at DD Homes Training Center, 206 Dixon Ave., Suite 4, Rock Falls, IL 61071. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family. The funeral mass will be live-streamed on the Miller Funeral Home GROUP face book page.

Noah was born June 18, 1980, Dubuque, Iowa to Lewis and Theresa (Donar) Riniker of Galena, the youngest of 10 children.  He attended schools in the Dubuque Community School District and the Illinois School for the Deaf, Jacksonville.  He worked at the Jo Daviess Workshop during summers and was employed at Self Help, Sterling from age 19 until COVID restrictions 2020-2021.  His residences included Hills and Dales in Dubuque and Willow and Woodburn Court, Sterling.

Noah loved his family, especially his nieces and nephews, NASCAR, televised baseball games, and defying his profound deafness, very loud music that made the walls and the windows shake.

Surviving are his parents, Lewis and Theresa of Benton, WI, formerly of Galena, IL; his siblings Jacob (Crystal) of Hazel Green, WI, Peter (Tamyra) of Volo, IL; Matthew (Nory) of Lockport, IL, Andrew (Victoria) of Creston, IA, Reuben of Webster City, IA, Benjamin (Emily) of East Dubuque, Samuel (Sarah) of East Dubuque and Elizabeth “Liz” (Benjamin) Leahy of Valparaiso, IN; his nieces and nephews Chloe, Clarice, Louis, Jack, Emma, Amelia, Gabriel, Johan, Mya, Logan, Asher, Magdalene, Catherine, Sadie, Sophia, and Sybil Riniker and Juniper Leahy; the residents and staff at Woodburn Court and Willows; 10 foreign exchange students, Franklin Gracia Briceno, Schneider Solano Mora, Ed Ugalde Nunez and Nelson Duarte, all of Costa Rica, Kent Carson of Canada, Jouni Eho of Finland, Josip Glaurdic of Croatia, Ricardo Innechi Amarel of Brazil, Ignacio Sabilla of Argentina,and Rinko Sakuma of London, United Kingdom, formerly of Japan; and special friends David Flynn of Ireland and Mark Rice of Alton, IL

He was preceded in death by a sister, Rebecca (1972), grandparents Jacob and Bernice Riniker and Leo and Mary Donar, and aunts and uncles.

The family deeply appreciates the excellent care he received during his multiple hospitalizations at CGH.  Thank you to the doctors and staff at the hospital and clinics he visited often.

Memorials may be sent to Kiwanis Children’s Fund, Lions Club International or the University of Iowa-Stead Family Children’s Hospital, Iowa City.

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

Robert J. Frommelt

Robert Joseph Frommelt passed away on August 6, 2021 with his loving family by his side.  Bob is survived by wife Barbara Ann (Cassidy) Frommelt, siblings Kathi Selle (Mike Selle) and David Frommelt (Kay Frommelt), daughters Martha Frommelt (David Feldshuh), Carol Frommelt, Gayle Frommelt (Seth Temin), Connie (Frommelt) Ciesielski (Dan Ciesielski) and grandchildren Adam Felderman, Cory Felderman, Jessica Errthum, Sara Davis, Bobby Minkewicz, Kate Minkewicz, Emily Ciesielski, Anna Ciesielski, Noah Feldshuh, Zach Feldshuh, Hannah Feldshuh and six great-grandchildren.

Born in Dubuque, Iowa on August 1, 1934, Bob was a wonderful and generous man who loved his family unconditionally, worked hard all his life and, until his last moments, asked first about his wife’s well- being before his own and was always ready to hold her hand.  Bob was married for 66 years to Barb.  Theirs was a romance that started at age 14 when Bob offered Barb a stick of gum.  Seven years later, Bob and Barb married and started a family. Bob was the most gentle and loving dad, known for his skill in putting babies to sleep on his broad chest. Bob taught his daughters the importance of work, community service, and that family comes first.

In his school days, Bob became known as “The Bear”, an All American football player for the Loras College Duhawks, and the most decorated lineman in the school’s history.  He continued to love football as a fan, cheering on the Chicago Bears, no matter what, win or lose.

In his professional life, Bob worked hard, without the need for personal accolades.  Bob started at the family business, Frommelt Industries in Dubuque, Iowa, as a teen, putting up tents and awnings.  He progressed to executive CEO, and his original contributions earned a number of patents issued in his name.

After work Bob was known to bring home three briefcases so often that his family moved his desk into the family room to make sure that he would work in the mix of things.

Bob was a generous, insightful, and practical leader of Frommelt Industries.  He learned the business from the ground up and was respected for his knowledge and his integrity, as well as his popcorn, made for the office on Fridays.  Bob’s favorite phrase was “Ask for the Order.”

In his community, Bob was a trustee of his church for almost twenty years, and the founding president of the Thunder Hills Country Club.  In the 1970s, Thunder Hills was only the second Planned United Development (PUD) in the State of Iowa.  Bob served on many boards and committees to help grow these communities.   Living in Thunder Hills enabled many happy times with his family, teaching everyone golf and hosting holidays with his beloved wife, Barb, at their home.

In 2004, Bob and Barb retired and began a wonderful chapter in Rio Verde, Arizona.  Later moving to Scottsdale, Bob and Barb continued to enjoy the sunshine, returning to the Midwest each summer.

A memorial page is established at https://www.mykeeper.com/profile/RobertFrommelt .   Notes of condolences and memories can be shared there.  A private memorial Mass will be held in Iowa.  Memorial gifts can be sent to https://alumni.loras.edu/FrommeltScholarship or mailed to Loras College, memo line Robert J. Frommelt Scholarship, Attn: Development Office, 1450 Alta Vista St., Dubuque, IA 52001 or a charity of your choice.  Or Bob would want you to spend time with those you love.

Geraldine A. O’Connor

Geraldine A. “Geri” (Holmgren) O’Connor, 88, of East Dubuque, IL, formerly of Chicago, IL, passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dennis Vargas officiating. Interment will be at 12:00 (Noon) on Thursday at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, IL. The funeral mass will be live-streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group facebook page.

Visitation will be after 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday at the Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Geri was born on January 10, 1933 in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Raymond and Mary (Barrett) Holmgren.  On May 9, 1959 she was united in marriage to Lawrence E. O’Connor at St. Margaret of Scotland Church in Chicago.  Larry preceded her in death on January 16, 2010.

Geri was employed as a Secretary at Temperature Controls Company. She and Larry moved to East Dubuque in 1997. Geri was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and its Altar & Rosary Society.

Surviving are her beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Mary, her brothers, Fr. Raymond Holmgren and John “Jack” Holmgren and his wife, Patricia Holmgren, and “numerous four-legged furry friends”.

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

Cheryl A. Gaul

Donita M. Weeber Jaeger

Donita M. Weeber Jaeger, 89, of Peoria, Illinois, formerly of Dubuque, died Thursday, August 5, 2021.  Private funeral services will be held.

Donita was born April 9, 1932 in Asbury, Iowa, daughter of Harold and Martha (Dietz) Koster.

She married James E. Jaeger on February 22, 1997 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.  He preceded her in death on August 24, 2001.

Donita worked as a receptionist for many years; first for Dr. Robert Meyer for 13 years, then Medical Associates for 15 years.

She was a past mentor at Lincoln Elementary School and volunteer at Finley Hospital.

She loved her family dearly.  Her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren brought great joy into her life.

She is survived by a son, Michael (Jackie) Weeber of Dubuque; daughter, Pamela (Paul) Trimble of Peoria, IL; nine grandchildren, Kate Kruse, Molly Weeber, Jodi Weeber, Jacob (fiancé Stacey) Weeber, Josh Weeber, Nathan (Cathy) Trimble, Nicki (Chris) Collins, Zack Trimble and Katelyn Trimble; great grandchildren, Nathanial Kruse;  Anna, Madeline, Lexi, Ava, and Brooks Weeber; and Ciara Timble, Camryn Collins, Cydney Collins and Rohman Timble;  brother in law, Robert Murphy and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her twin brother and his wife, Donald and Joyce Koster and sister, Shirlene “Toots” Murphy.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Barbara A. Block

Barbara Ann Block, 75, of East Dubuque, IL died August 4, 2021.  Visitation will be at the Mystique Community Ice Center Saturday, August 14 from 2 to 4 pm followed by sharing of memories at 4 pm.  A committal service will be held 9:30 a.m. Monday, August 16 at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Barbara was born March 18, 1946 in Dubuque, daughter of Harold “Hal” and Elsie (McNamer) Block.

She started work at Frommelt Industries which later became Rite-Hite Corp, and worked there for over 40 years until her retirement.

Barbara had two passions in her life; her dogs and Hockey.

Her dogs meant the world to her and as she would say, they taught her about unconditional love.

She was an avid supporter of local hockey and the Dubuque Fighting Saints.

Barb also had a heart of gold and would try to help anyone who was in need or pain.

Barb is survived by her brother, Bob (Pat) Block of Summerville, SC; and two cousins, Deborah Block of Dubuque and Toni Hurley of Bellevue, Iowa.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be left at egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

A Barbara Block Memorial Fund has been established.

Gary L. Germain

Gary L. Germain, age 79, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on August 8, 2021, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Gary’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 14, 2021, from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., at the Linwood Mueller Memorial Chapel, 2736 Windsor Avenue in Dubuque.  A prayer service for Gary will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Father Herbert Pins officiating.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gary’s family.

Gary was born on January 4, 1942, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Maurice “Maury” and Betty (Knapp) Germain.  He grew up surrounded by friends and family and spent his entire life embracing and adoring every opportunity to share his days with them.  Gary eventually turned his passion of restoring painting and antiques into his own business, Germain Fine Arts and Associates, and thoroughly treasured the opportunity to make a living out of doing what he enjoyed most. When the workday was done, Gary’s 2nd love in life was anything on or near the water.  Fishing, boating, and water skiing were always an acceptable way to spend a little free time in Gary’s eyes, and he had even spent a few years sharing his talents with the Tommy Bartlett Show in the Wisconsin Dells during some of his earlier years.  Gary also thoroughly enjoyed every opportunity he could spend a little time with his grandsons as well.  Whether it was with fishing poles in hand, or shooting hoops on the basketball court, if the boys were by his side, all was well.  Any day that Gary could spend a little time with family, at work, and be blessed enough to discover a little free-time on the river, was all that he could ever ask for.  We are truly broken-hearted today at the mere thought that we have shared our last conversation with our dear Gary.  His love for life, and the memories which he leaves behind, are surely an inspiration to all who knew and loved him and will hopefully help to heal the pain of his absence from our daily lives.  We thank you, Gary, for simply being the best man that you could be and will never forget the sight of your smile.  May the Lord grant you the peace you’ve been seeking and hold you securely in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Gary include,

his son,
Chris (Nancy) Germain, Buffalo, IA;

his grandson,
Michael Germain, Buffalo, IA;

his siblings,
Nancy (Jym Lyons) Germain, Dubuque, IA,
and Dennis “Denny” (Linda) Germain, Granada Hills, CA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice “Maury” and Betty (Knapp) Germain; and his grandson, Nicholas Germain.

Gary’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional and compassionate care of Gary, and his family.

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

Dr. Robert McGrath Miller

Dr. Robert “Bob” McGrath Miller, passed away on August 8 at home surrounded by family.

Friends and relatives may call from 4 to 7 pm on Wednesday, August 11 at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Asbury, Iowa. Services will be held at 10:00 am Thursday, August 12 at Lord of Life where visitation will also be held from 9:00 to 9:45 am. Burial will follow at Asbury Cemetery.  Due to the Covid 19 pandemic, masks will be required at the visitation and funeral service. The service will be livestreamed by Lord of Life, the information is as follows Zoom:https://bit.ly/2PvSCQJ Meeting ID: 563 582 7371 Passcode: Luther or Phone in at: (312) 626-6799 Meeting ID: 563 582 7371 Passcode: 456037.

Bob was born on November 16, 1942 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Arthur J. and Annetta (McGrath) Miller, Sr.. Except for a few early years at Lattnerville and Graf, IA and graduate school years, Bob lived his entire life in Dubuque. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1960 and the University of Dubuque in 1964. He later earned an M.S. in Biology and a Ph.D. in Botany, both at the University of Iowa. Bob met the love of his life, Janice Butler Downey, in 1968, and they were married on July 27, 1969, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Dubuque.

Bob began his college teaching career at the University of Dubuque in 1966, and he was on the faculty there until 2004. He retired as Professor of Biology and Chair of the Department of Natural and Applied Sciences. Highlights of his teaching career were teaching field courses and the development of the Environmental Science major at Dubuque, along with fond memories of the many students and advisees that he served over his 38 years of teaching at the University.

As a devoted member at St. Matthew, Bob served in many roles, including congregational chairman. He and Janice especially enjoyed seeing their son and daughter baptized and confirmed at St. Matthew. In later years, he and Janice joined the church family at Lord of Life Lutheran Church.

Bob was a lifetime fan of the Dodgers and Packers, and enjoyed attending Hawkeye football games with family and friends. He had a true love for the farm at Lattnerville that was in his family from 1853 to 2013, and was very happy to see it become a county park and wildlife area. Bob kept a parcel on Girl Scout Road, where he had a log cabin built that provided years of quiet enjoyment for him. Somewhat late in life, Bob developed a love for the Mississippi River, taking family and friends out on his pontoon boat. Notable was Bob’s role as organizer for a very close group of buddies who “hung out” since attending school together, most of whom were members of the ‘Hempstead Hillbillies’.

Janice and Bob enjoyed going out with friends and family, traveling, reading, dancing, and playing cards. High points were the times spent with children and grand-children, sharing their activities, in school and afterwards. Holiday traditions were particularly meaningful, including July 4th and Christmas brunch at the Butler home on Derby Grange Road.

Bob served for years as a board member of the Friends of Dubuque County Conservation Board, assisting with many projects in the county, particularly Heritage Trail which passes by the Miller-McGrath farm. He also served on the Dubuque Civil Service Commission and on the board of the Mississippi River Research Consortium.

Surviving Bob are his wife, Janice Miller, son Todd Miller and daughter Lisa Miller Hopkins and granddaughters Alyssa Hopkins, Sydney Miller, and Emma Miller.

He is also survived by two siblings, Charles (Marie) Miller, Nettie (John) Combs, in-laws Burton (Ellen) Butler, Dean Butler, Richard Anderson, Laurie Anderson, Sally (Koehler) Miller, as well as nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his grand-parents, parents, sisters in-law Jeanette Anderson, Patti Butler, and brother Arthur J. Miller Jr.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.  Online condolences may be left for the family at Egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Friends of the Dubuque County Conservation Board, Lord of Life Lutheran Church, or Hospice of Dubuque.

David J. Johll, Jr.

David J. Johll Jr., 61, of East Dubuque, died Sunday, August 8, 2021, at his home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Tuesday August 10, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road.

The Funeral Service for David will be 10:00 am Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  Full military honors will be rendered by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.  The service will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

David was born November 11, 1959, in Dubuque, the son of David John and Shirley Ann Rennison Johll.

He was 1978 graduate of Hempstead High School and attended Iowa State University.

He was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving from April, 1982 until April 2002 as Master Sergeant. He was stationed in Saudia Arabia, Okinawa, England and South Dakota and was known as “King Dave”.

He served in the U.S. Civil Service for the Federal Aviation Administration in Juneau, Alaska.

He was of the Catholic faith and was a member of Dubuque Fraternal Order of Eagles #568. He played fantasy football and was an avid Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs fan. He loved music and played soprano for the Dubuque Colts Drum and Bugle Corps.

Survivors include four siblings, Daniel Johll of Dunedin, FL, Cheryl (Scott) Withington of Yukon, OK, Cathy (Wayne) Selle of East Dubuque, and Donald Johll of Waterloo, IA; a special aunt and uncle, Mike and Dorothy Leppert of East Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two nephews, and his grandparents.

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

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

Kyle Pearce

Kyle Pearce, 85 of Elizabeth, IL passed away unexpectedly Friday, August 6, 2021, after an unfortunate farming accident. Friends may call from 5 to 7 PM on Thursday, August 12, 2021, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. Military honors will be accorded at 7 PM at the Funeral Home by the Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. Burial will be Friday, August 13, 2021, at 11:30 AM in Elizabeth Township Cemetery. Cremation rites have been accorded.

He was born July 6, 1936, in Hanover, IL the son of James and Mildred (Allen) Pearce. Kyle graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1954. He joined the U.S. Army and was stationed at Fort Lewis, in Washington where he achieved the rank of corporal before being honorably discharged in 1956. Prior to joining the army, he worked at Farley and Loescher. Kyle was united in marriage to Sharon Niemeyer on June 29, 1957. Together they began farming in rural Galena. He worked at the Elizabeth garage from 1967 until 1980 as a mechanic while continuing to farm. He and his wife moved to their current farm in Elizabeth in 1973 with their three children. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and will be sadly missed.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, three children, Rob (Donna) Pearce of Elizabeth, Lori (Steve) Beach of Rockford, IL, and Richard (Meah) Pearce of Elizabeth, nine grandchildren, Shannon (Justin) Diehl, Renee (Brian) Busch, Amy (Justin) Wiscons, Sara (Mat Loveridge) Beach, Hayden Beach, Jessica Beach, Zoe (Anthony Bertucci) Pearce, Eli Beach and Abby Beach, and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter, Lisa, and son, William both in infancy, sister Virginia Bruner and a brother-in-law, Wayne Bruner.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Mary F. Year

Mary F. “Frankie” (Gruber) Yeary, 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at Jackson County Regional Health Center.

Family and friends may gather from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday, August 9, 2021, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a Celebration of Life service will be at 12:00 p.m. Graveside service will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Mary was born on August 27, 1938, in Big Stone Gap, VA the daughter of Curtis and Elma Mae (Bailey) Yeary.

Frankie was most remembered by her knack of creating anything she set her mind to. She would spend hours searching for that special rock to build her rock gardens just right. Frankie had an incredible talent of envisioning beautiful creations from just a skein of yarn. Her designs were from remarkably detailed doll dresses to elegant afghans that will be cherished for years to come. She was an amazing cook that not only did her children enjoy but also her beloved pup Peanut. Frankie’s infectious smile along with her sharp-witted personality will hold dear to the hearts of those who she encountered.

Frankie is survived by her children, Mike (Sue Lang) Gruber, of Dubuque, IA, Deb Gruber of Spanaway, WA, Lisa Gruber, of Burgess, VA, Jeff Gruber of Dubuque, IA, Joe (JoAnn) Gruber, of Dubuque, IA and Missy (Merlin Hansen) Donovan, of Dubuque, IA. Her grandchildren, Megan Kedley, Ben (Ariel Miller) Donovan, Tishana (Eric) Suiter, Ryan (Dana) Gruber, Brandon (Ellie Loes) Gruber, Jake Donovan, Brittany (Kyle) Burch, Jenna Gruber, Katie (Adam) Kurt, Jake Gruber, Kristina (Drew Collins) Gruber, Emily Donovan and ten great grandchildren. Two sisters Ann (Bill) Akers and Connie (Rodney) Bray both of Virginia.

Frankie was preceded in death by her parents; her former husband Francis X. Gruber Jr.; a special angel Danny Gruber and her ever faithful and loving dog Peanut.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Whispurring Hope Rescue.

The family would like to thank the staff at Crest Ridge Nursing Home with a special thank you to Mary’s caregiver Karen. The family would also like to thank Vickie at Whispurring Hope Rescue for caring for Peanut.

Louella F. Schlapia

Louella F. Schlapia, 90, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday morning, August 6, 2021, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

A celebration of Louella’s life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Friday, August 13, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11:30 A.M. to 1:15 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Louella Faye Schnoor was born on January 10, 1931 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Louis Hans and Martha Marie (Sumtumn) Schnoor.  She was a graduate of Maquoketa High School and then received her teaching certificate from a college in Maryville, Missouri.  She married Lowell Schlapia on August 24, 1950 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Debbie and Gary.

Louella had taught school in Missouri prior to her marriage.  She then raised a family and worked as a saleslady selling specialty advertising for Impact Sales in Cedar Rapids for over 40 years.  She was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa and had served on the Eminent Domain Commission.

Louella loved music and enjoyed cooking, playing cards and entertaining guests in her home.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Debbie (Bill) Roethler of Davenport, IA, and Gary Schlapia of Maquoketa, IA; 3 grandchildren, Jason (Eileen) Roethler of Bettendorf, IA, Shelbe (Chris) Krogman of Maquoketa, IA, and Matthew (Dawn) Schlapia of Moline, IL; 4 great-grandchildren, Brendan and Siena Roethler, and Avery and Riley Schlapia; a sister, Fern Schoenthaler of Maquoketa, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lowell on October 12, 1972, 4 brothers and 1 sister.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Louella F. Schlapia memorial fund has been established.

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

Deloris E. Jacobsen Newell

Deloris E. Jacobsen Newell, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday, August 6, 2021, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, August 12, 2021, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Deloris Elaine Weets was born on July 13, 1933 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Martin and Helen (DeMoss) Weets.  She was a 1952 graduate of Elwood High School.  She married Virgil Jacobsen on June 8, 1952 in Jackson County, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Janice, Dan and Carla.  Virgil preceded her in death on November 24, 1977.  On September 27, 1980, she married William C. Newell in Dubuque, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on November 13, 2000.

Deloris was a farmwife and raised a family.  She loved volunteering at the Dubuque Library and at Maquoketa Care Center.  Additionally, she enjoyed gardening and playing cards, especially EUCHRE.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Janice (Steve) Ales of Lexington, KY, Dan (Wendy) Jacobsen of Delmar, IA, and Carla (Eric) Eganhouse of Wyoming, IA; 7 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Marvin Weets of Sabula, IA; and sisters, Sharon Kreutner of Shellsburg, IA, and Kaye (Bill) West of Walcott, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Virgil and husband William, a brother Stanley Weets, and sisters Marlana Steiner and Betty Mott.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

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

Ora C. Schmidt

Ora C. (Miller) Schmidt, age 92, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:00 a.m., on Friday, August 6, 2021, peacefully at her home with her loving family by her side.  To celebrate Ora’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 7:00 p.m.  To honor Ora’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Ora was born on July 28, 1929, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Elmer and Elsie (Vogt) Miller.

Ora was born and raised in Dubuque where she graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy.  She met her husband, Melvin Schmidt, when she was 11 years old at the ice skating rink, and the two would develop a wonderful friendship that lead to marriage on June 18, 1949, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.  They were truly inseparable and would enjoy 68 ½ years as a married couple before Melvin sadly passed away on February 16, 2018.  On their 60th anniversary they renewed their vows with almost all of the family present.  Ora was always a hard worker.  She was employed with Montgomery Wards, JC Penney and retired from Rite Hite, along with raising her family of 9 and running the household.  Ora and Melvin always made time for each other and loved to go dancing regularly and spend time with their friends.  Ora enjoyed spending time on the river on their cruiser, “Schmidty’s Full House”.   She also loved being on the open road in one of the 11 brand new Winnebago campers they bought right off the assembly line.  She and Melvin always had their kids in tow, as well as other children who without their generosity would not have had the opportunity to travel.  Together they traveled to all 50 states and after their retirement they wintered in Yuma, Arizona for 25 years.  Ora also enjoyed reading books, listening to big band music, birds, gardening, tending to her flowers, cooking huge meals, playing Euchre with her friends, and time spent with her special puppy Isabelle.  She loved spending as much time as she could with her family and always surrounded herself with children.  Ora also served as a Girl Scout Leader for several years.  She was the matriarch of their huge clan and everyone looked up to her for her wisdom and leadership.  She was also a long time member of Holy Trinity Church.  She prayed for all of her family and drew on strength from her faith when challenges came her way.  Ora always knew how to have fun and laugh.  Holidays and traditions were important and always her favorite time to pack the house full.  She would spend days preparing food for these events.  We are heartbroken at losing our wonderful Ora here on Earth with us.  Ora was truly one of a kind, she always had a smile and was such a sweet, gentle soul.  She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she has touched throughout the years.  We know that her work here is now done and she is resting peacefully with Melvin and all of her loved ones.

Those left to cherish Ora’s memory include

her 8 children,
Terry (Sandi) Schmidt, Apple River, IL,
Deborah (Mike) Hoppmann, Dubuque, IA,
Tim (Barb) Schmidt, Dubuque, IA,
Vickie Parsons, Dubuque, IA,
Ron (Sheri) Schmidt, Epworth, IA,
Paul (Martha) Schmidt, Epworth, IA,
Sandy (Bob) Hunt, Bellevue, IA
and Lora (Todd) Perkins, Peosta, IA;

a daughter-in-law,
Liane Schmidt, Dubuque, IA;

26 grandchildren; 42 great-grandchildren and 1 more on the way; 1 great-great-grandson;

and her siblings,
Shirley Welter, Peosta, IA
and Bruce (Bonnie) Miller, Fort Wayne, IN.

Ora was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Melvin Schmidt; a son, Michael Schmidt; a grandson, Justin Schmidt; a great-grandson, Christian Lyons; and several in-laws.

Ora’s family would like to thank the staff of Sunset Park Place, and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, for all of the care they have provided for Ora and her family.  Also a special thanks to Martha, granddaughter, Alysia, and her very special daughter, Lora, who took care of her every single day and held her hand until the very end.

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

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