Obituaries Archive

Allan P. Connolly

Allan P. (Al) Connolly, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, July 30th, 2020, at home with his hand held by his daughter Maggie and son Patrick’s love in his heart.

Allan was born on June 17th, 1947, in Farley, Iowa, the son of Albert P. (Al) Connolly and Margaret (Daly) Connolly. Growing up in Farley, Iowa, his childhood summers were spent playing baseball from dawn to dusk. He graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Farley in 1965, a relief to himself, his parents and most probably the nuns.

He served four years in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1969, including one year stationed in Tuy Hoa, Vietnam during 1968-69 in the K-9 Security Force where he and his dog Toby guarded B-52’s . After serving his country, he returned to Dubuque and graduated with a Bachelor in Education in 1973 from Loras College, and a Master of Administration in 1975. He began his 15-year teaching career in 1973 at Holy Trinity School on Dubuque’s north end, enjoying his work with students and their families. Later, he became principal at Sacred Heart in Maquoketa from 1987-1989. He then went on to serve as Deputy County Treasurer (1992-2009), but his heart was always in the classroom.

He married Constance (Connie) Arlen on June 15, 1973, at St. Joseph’s Church in Farley, Iowa. Together, they have two children, Patrick O’Clock and Maggie Connolly. Trips to a Northern Wisconsin cabin with extended family and frequent family reunions were among the highlights of many summer vacations.

From 1975-1992 he umpired for high school and prairie league baseball and for city softball games. After retirement, he volunteered at the local NAMI chapter, played a mean game of pool, danced the night away at many ballroom dances, and enjoyed three trips to Asia, one of which included visiting his former military post in Tuy Hoa. His favorite pastimes included reading and playing Texas hold’em poker at which he was very skillful. Immediately after his cancer diagnosis he announced that he would henceforth drink only fine scotch and never miss a good poker game.

Friends and family enjoyed Al’s company and conversation because of his integrity, sense of humor, generosity of time and respect he gave to all people. The Holiday invasion of the in-laws was met with good sportsmanship as well as endurance. His hearty belly laugh to the point of being unable to speak will be missed.

He is survived by his wife Connie, son Patrick and daughter Maggie; brothers Patrick (Carol), Thomas (Barbara) and Mike (Martha) Connolly, devoted sister Cathy (Charles) Wickler; sisters- and brothers-in-law: Rosene Moreland, Marlene (Glenn) Stoner, John (Dana) Arlen, Rick (Caroline) Arlen, Cindy Bartels, Darwin (Becky) Arlen, Charlie(Julie) Arlen, Denise McNatt, Chris (Bruce) Dokkebakken, Russell (Karen) Arlen, Audrey Zankle, Mary Monroe; brothers-in- law Bill Ament and Gerald Houtakker, and nieces and nephews whom he thoroughly enjoyed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law Geneva and Charles Arlen; sisters-in-law Jayne Houtakker and Julie Ament; brothers-in-law Bob Bartels and Frank Moreland, niece Abbie Ament, and nephew Jesse Bartels.

Because of the COVID pandemic, a true Irish wake in celebration of Al’s life which will include Allan’s list of ‘100 favorite songs I want played at my wake’ will be held at a later date. For those wishing to get in contact or offer condolences, please leave messages at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory website: www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

John M. Nicks

John M. Nicks, age 91, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:20 p.m., on Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate John’s life, private family services were held. Burial was in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

John was born on June 19, 1929, in Chicago, Illinois, son of Gus and Lena (Lillie) Nicks.

John attended school at St. Mary’s Grade School and Dubuque Senior High School, before going on to honorably serve his country with the Army National Guard for 10 years. He was a dedicated employee of the John Deere Dubuque Works, where he served as a general assembly supervisor for engines for 37 years, until his well earned retirement on December 1, 1984. John met the love of his life, Betty Kohl, and the two were united in marriage on September 9, 1950, at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. They raised 3 children, and were blessed with 63 wonderful years together, before Betty sadly passed away right after Christmas on December 26, 2013. John and Betty’s faith was very important to them. They were active members and volunteers of their beloved St. Mary’s Church, where he served on the parish council for 15 years. After its closing, they joined the St. Anthony’s Parish family. John also volunteered his time and talents with the Dubuque Auxiliary Police Department and St. Stephen Food Bank for several years. When he found some down time in his days John enjoyed sitting down to catch a Chicago Cubs or Bears game, always a diehard fan. He also enjoyed traveling the southwestern United States and seeing all of the beautiful sights that area of the country has to offer. Above all, John’s family was the most important aspect of his life. He truly loved each and every one of them, and had a rare and special relationship with all of his grandchildren. John was an excellent role model for what a husband, father and grandfather should be, and we are grateful for all of the life lessons he has passed on to us to share with our own families. We will miss John more than we can say, but take some comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his beloved wife, Betty, and daughter, Dianne, whom he has missed so much these past years.

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

his sons,
Steven (Violet) Nicks, Bettendorf, IA
and Jeffery (Mary Ann) Nicks, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Jason (Angie) Jones, Marion, IA,
Jennie (Nick) Schwartz, Dubuque, IA,
Scott (Kelli) Nicks, East Dubuque, IL,
Nicole Nicks, Los Angeles, CA,
Amber (Matt) Wenzel, Dubuque, IA,
Ryan (Amber) Nicks, Dubuque, IA,
Brandie (B.J.) Knockel, LaMotte, IA
and Sara (Andy) Daggett, Rock Island, IL;

15 great-grandchildren,
Jasper and Madelyn Jones, Amaya and Olivia Schwartz, Torin and Mila Rowan, Gavin and Cora Wenzel, Lily, Harper, Brody and Jacob Nicks, Keegan, Millie and Jersey Knockel;

his siblings,
Irene (Wayne) Jewett, South Carolina
and Lucille Koppes, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Betty Nicks; a daughter, Dianne (Steve) Behr; 2 sisters, Anna (Bud) Oulman and Rosemary (Don) Acuff; 2 brothers, Nick (Bernadine) Grevas and Andy (Odette) Grevas; 2 brothers-in-law, Jim Koppes and Frank (Janann) Kohl Jr.; and a grandson-in-law, Sam Rowan.

John’s family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff of Eagle Point Place, for all of their outstanding and attentive care of John and his entire family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. John Nicks Family.

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

John M. Connolly

John M. Connolly, 63, of Dubuque Iowa passed away on August 2, 2020, at his home.

Funeral services will be at 12:00 p.m. Friday, August 7th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Friday at the funeral home until time of service. Please remember to social distance and mask are required to attend.

John was born on December 12, 1956, the son of John and Dolores (Smalley) Connolly. He graduated from East Buchanan High School (Class of 1975) in Winthrop Iowa. He played multiple sports but loved wrestling! On June 28th, 1986, he married the love of his life Judy.

He worked for Hodge Company in Dubuque where he drove truck and worked in the warehouse.

John worked hard and played harder. He enjoyed going to tractor pulls and playing pool at the bar. Vikings were his favorite team and he was not going to let you forget that. With his cooler packed with Budweiser, he loved going to family gatherings. Being a proud Irishman, he was tough loving, but still knew how to get down and have a good time. On weekdays he watched Jeopardy and kicked butt in Yahtzee. He will be missed more than he’ll ever know.

He is survived by his daughters Stephanie (Jake) Alba, Jonnie Rose Connolly and Jodi Connolly; three grandchildren; Siblings Elaine (Ken) Loughren, Rose (Al) Rassmussen , Pat Connolly, Tom (Lisa) Connolly, Tina (Ed) Jennings, Mike Connolly, Tim (Kodie) Connolly, Jim (Dawn) Connolly, and Nolan Michaelson, Gilda Thompson and Rhonda Michaelson; In-laws Mary (Rick) Billmeyer, Liz (Al) Koppes, Steve Jochum and Fred Marburger and an ever growing number of nieces and nephews that he loved.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents; his sister Anna; his brother Joe; sister-in-law Freda; a niece Ashlei along with many other family and friends. John is now reunited with his beautiful wife Judy!

In lieu of flowers a John Connolly memorial fund will be established.

Paul J. Brimeyer

Paul J. Brimeyer, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away after a sudden illness on Monday, August 3rd, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian burial will be Friday, August 7th at 10:30 am at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. David Schatz officiating. Entombment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by The Iowa Army National Guard and The Dubuque Marine Corps League. No public visitation will be held. We remind you to practice social distancing guidelines and masks are required to be worn at church for the mass. If you are unable to attend, a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Paul was born on October 31, 1941 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Hubert and Isabel (Riniker) Brimeyer. He attended St. Columbkille School and was a member of the first graduating class at Wahlert Catholic High School. He is a US Army Veteran serving from 1964 to 1966 where he received a Good Conduct Medal and certificate of Achievement.

Paul married Kathleen “Kay” Haley on April 24th, 1965 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque and together they raised four wonderful children.

Paul was employed as an electrician at John Deere Dubuque Works for 35 years retiring in 1998.

He enjoyed canoe trips with friends and family on the Wisconsin river; was a Dubuque Fighting Saints season ticket holder and supported the Boy Scouts. He was also a member of the UAW Local 94 and enjoyed playing solitaire.

Paul is survived by his four children: Scott (Lisa) Brimeyer, of Millville, IA, Jeff (Susan) of Belvidere IL, Pam (Jay) Zimmer of Asbury, IA and Randy (Carrie) Brimeyer of Des Moines, IA.

Nine of the best grandchildren anyone could ever have, Justin (Jade) Brimeyer, Emily (DJ Martin) Brimeyer, Luke Brimeyer, Sarah Brimeyer, Steven Brimeyer, Molly (Mitch) Boge, Morgan (Dyllon) Phillips, Madisen Zimmer, and Michael Zimmer, along with three great grandchildren Aubrey, Aviery, and Oliver. His siblings and in-laws; Betty (Clemie) Pins, Hubert Jr. (Rosie) Brimeyer, Janet Reiss, Barb Kramer; brothers-in-law; Larry Powers, and Mike Haley; and sister-in-law, Mag (Donnie) Hayes.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Kay on February 3, 2018; his siblings and in-laws; Mary (Clete) Simon, Joseph Brimeyer, Margaret Brimeyer, Florence (LaVern) Simon, Anna Mae Powers, William (Bev) Brimeyer, Richard (Susie) Brimeyer, Paul Reiss, Helen Brimeyer, Lyle Kramer.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff at MercyOne in Dubuque for all their care and kindness.

Nicholas J. Ryan

Nicholas J. “Nick” Ryan, age 66 of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on August 4, 2020, surrounded by his loving family after a brief battle with cancer.  The family will not be having a public memorial at this time as a result of the pandemic.   A private family service will be held.  Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Nick’s family.

Nick was born on December 17, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, one of four children to James R. and Ora Mae (Strain) Ryan.  At a young age their family spent countless days on his father’s homemade pontoon boat on the Mississippi River.  This created Nick’s love for the water and future adventures.  After graduating from Wahlert High School he joined the Air Force and worked as an electrical power plant technician.  He was stationed at Colorado Springs Cheyenne Mountain for two years and then in Alaska at Tin City AFB for a year.  He returned to Dubuque for a brief time and then began working as a government contract employee spending two years in Antarctica.  Nick was also employed at Cape Canaveral AFB and Ascension Island, South Atlantic, for four years working as a power plant technician.  He returned to Dubuque and spent seven years working as a marine engineer on tow boats on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.  He also worked several years as an engineer on the Diamond Jo Casino gambling boat.  Nick spent his last 18 years working in the Dubuque Technology Park performing facility maintenance for Advanced Data Comm, Inc. and finally at Straka Johnson Architects.  Eventually Nick settled down, at 52, and started a family of his own.  He was united in marriage to his best friend, Angela Bittner, on September 16, 2006, and they have been blessed with two beautiful children and many wonderful memories together.  Nick frequently said “my life is backwards” as he laughed over being called Grandpa when out with his children.  Most of their free time was spent enjoying the Mississippi River with family.  Nick truly loved anything outdoors, even in the dead of winter, he could be found enjoying a nice fire in the woods.

Nick would say that he has lived a full and abundant life, but clearly when the Lord finally decided to bring Angie and their children into his life, all was complete.  We will miss Nick, his gentle spirit, kind heart and contagious sense of humor, but we trust that the Lord will keep him safely and securely in His loving arms until we meet again.  Thank you, Nick, for the amazing example you have left and may we carry your legacy forward with pride while we carry you with us in our hearts.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Nick include,

his loving wife,
Angela Ryan, East Dubuque, Illinois;

his 2 adored children,
Patrick and Molly Ryan, East Dubuque, Illinois;

his siblings,
John (Patty) Ryan, East Dubuque, Illinois,
and Julie Jackson, Dubuque, Iowa;

mother-in-law,
Dorothy Bittner, Guttenberg, Iowa;

brothers and sisters-in-law,
Dave Spahn, Dubuque, Iowa,
Jeff (Karen Moose) Bittner, Garnavillo, Iowa,
David Bittner, Garnavillo, Iowa,
Lisa (Robert) Kies,
Dan (Jessica) Bittner,
and Jason (Lynette Pritchard) Bittner, all of Guttenberg, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Nick was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Kathy Spahn; and his father-in-law, John Bittner.

Nick’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Nick, and his family. This has been a very difficult time for all of us and your sincere gentleness and kind hearts have truly made a difference which we will never forget.  Nick’s family would also like to thank all of our family and friends who have provided such an outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.  Your consideration and kindness have helped to bring some peace and healing into our days and we cannot thank you enough for the role you’ve so generously played in that.

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

This boat that has taken me across these beautiful seas

Is getting old and leaky

It’s time to sail into the foggy night

And see what’s there in the new dawn light – Nick Ryan

Terry E. Smith

Terry E. Smith, age 66, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on July 28th, 2020.  Born in Freeport, Illinois on September 25, 1953, Terry was one of three children to Delmar and Nancy (Shoemaker) Smith, along with sister Jenny and brother Mark.

Terry was married twice – first to Diana (Pluym) Smith and until his passing, to Liz (Sullivan) Smith – and produced four children, all of with whom he established a deep and lasting bond until his final days.

Terry spent his professional career in sales, including Richardson Motors, Specialized Office Systems, and IPA.

In his personal life, he was a proud and dedicated supporter of his two favorite sports teams – the Boston Celtics and the Chicago Bears – and he spent many hours shooting pool, maintaining a collection of knives and swords, and reading.  Another major source of joy for Terry was playing guitar and listening to his near-endless supply of Bob Dylan records. Terry also enjoyed entertaining others with his ability to speak backwards.

As his close friends, family members, and even acquaintances could attest to, Terry remained a genuine and unique person until his end and was someone who found ways to embrace life each day.

Those left behind to cherish Terry’s memory include:

his wife,
Liz (Sullivan) Smith, of Dubuque, Iowa;

his children,
Molly Smith, Dubuque, Iowa,
Talli Smith, Des Moines, Iowa,
Jeromy Smith, Des Moines, Iowa,
and Adam (Sarah) Smith, Norwalk, Iowa;

his grandchildren,
Jack, Henry, Aiden, Greta, and Olivia;

his sister,
Jenny Hartlieb, Freeport, Illinois;

his brother,
Mark (Julene) Smith, North Prairie, Wisconsin;

his aunt and uncle,
Mary and Don (Buck) Croson, Racine, Wisconsin;

his brother-in-law,
Charlie V. Sullivan, Omaha, Nebraska;

along with his many close and long-time friends.

For the rest of our collective lives, when we look to the sky, may we be reminded of his spirit and the warmth and love Terry provided to all of us.

Terry was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Wilson Hartlieb.

Terry’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

LaVern D. Wiederholt

LaVern D. Wiederholt, 78, of Kieler, Wisconsin, passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, August 8, 2020 at Immaculate Conception Church, Kieler, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.  A public visitation for friends will be held from 9-11:15 a.m. Saturday at the church before the service. The family requests you utilize masks during the duration of your visit in the church and that you practice social distancing. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

LaVern was born on March 24, 1942, on the family farm in Louisburg, Wisconsin, the son of Joseph and Irma (Dalsing) Wiederholt. He married Ruth Loeffelholz on May 21, 1966 at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville.

LaVern loved horses and was a member of the Kieler Saddle Club. LaVern served in the National Guard, entering in 1961 and served his country during the Berlin Crisis. He received an honorable discharge in 1963. He enjoyed buying and selling machinery, and farming for over 50 years. His two favorite things were driving his John Deere tractors and spending time with his girls.

Survivors include his wife, Ruth; two daughters, Kathy DeYoung, Cuba City, WI, and Kristie Wiederholt, Gardiner, MT; two granddaughters, Rebecca DeYoung, Cuba City, WI, and Ashley (Marcus) DeYoung, Dickeyville, WI; three sisters, Alvara Francis, Dubuque, IA, Eileen Dunne, Dickeyville, WI, and Mary (Greg) Brandt, Cuba City, WI; and two brothers, Harold (Kay) Wiederholt, Potosi, WI, and Eldon (Judy) Wiederholt, Cuba City, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Herbert; a sister, Janet; and three brothers-in-law, Ralph Kirchen, Charlie Dunne, and Robert Francis.

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

Edwin K. Schmitt

Edwin Karl “Ed” Schmitt, Jr. 74, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Monday, August 3, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Family and friends may visit from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque. Due to current circumstances surrounding Covid-19 we remind everyone to social distance, wear a mask and please do not attend if you are not feeling well. Private family burial will be held in Linwood Cemetery.

Ed was born on January 7, 1946 at the Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, IA, the son of Edwin Karl and Mary Phyllis (Braem) Schmitt. He married Audrey Davis on December 13, 1975 at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque, IA. Ed worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for 17 years. In his free time, he enjoyed NASCAR and loved to work with Model Cars and Trains.

He is survived by two sons, Robert (Lori) Schmitt and Gale Schmitt both of Dubuque; his two grandchildren, Alexis Hurt (Fiancé – Nick Cutsforth) Schmitt of Waterloo, IA and Barry Schmitt of Ames, IA

Ed was preceded in death by his loving wife, Audrey and his parents, Edwin and Mary.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

Judith A. Siegert

Judith (Judy) Ann Siegert, 77, of Dubuque IA, passed away on July 31st at Unity Point Hospital with her sister by her side, due to underlying medical issues and recently contracting COVID-19. 

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.  The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Judy was born on Aug 22, 1942 in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Arnold and June (Walser) Siegert.  She was a confident, accomplished RN, who used her skills to travel the world. After graduating from Finley Hospital’s nurse training program in the early 60’s, she worked in Boulder Colorado, British Columbia, Ontario, Hawaii, and Florida.  She then travelled through and sometimes worked in Tehran (Iran), South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.  She backpacked in Nepal and spent time on a Kibbutz in Israel. She spent many years working in Los Angeles. She worked several years at a US military hospital in Augsburg, Germany.  She also worked as a prison nurse in Camden, NJ. She returned to California to work in San Francisco, and finally settled in Temecula near Los Angeles to work as an occupational health nurse. Her aunts Betty and Vera lived nearby, and they enjoyed local restaurants and year round good weather. Judy also found out that she was a good waitress when she helped out at Aunt Betty and Uncle Bob’s mexican restaurant in Crestline, CA. She and Betty spent a lot of time together and became very close. Her nephew Jeff lived nearby in San Diego and later Pasadena and visited often.  Health problems eventually led Judy to move back to Dubuque to be near her sister Sandy and the rest of the family.

Judy’s compassion, empathy, and pragmatic nature served her and her patients well as a nurse. She did private duty nursing for Phil Silvers, Sammy Davis Jr., John Ritter’s mother, and Walt Disney. She worked with Dr DeBakey, the surgeon renowned for pioneering the first successful heart transplant.

Judy was an extremely thoughtful and generous person, who expected nothing in return. Although she did not have children of her own, she was very close to her two nephews and niece and gave them some experiences they will never forget. She took her niece Jodi to Hawaii for her sixteenth birthday, where she learned a quick lesson on independence and self-assurance by flying alone on a plane, taking a cab alone from LAX to Santa Monica, and experiencing an earthquake while alone in Judy’s apartment. She hosted her nephew Greg on an extended trip to California as he worked in various places in Los Angeles and San Francisco. They spent time having dinner together and going for walks at Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Her nephew Jeff recalls running with her to catch trains or ferries all over Germany, France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece – imbuing in him some of her confidence and grit to overcome unforeseen challenges.

Judy was also an avid reader and could easily read a book in a day’s time. She enjoyed going to the movies, although you could never sit next to her because she talked through the entire thing and had conversations with the characters on the screen! She was also an animal lover and had many furry friends over the years, including horses on the farm, her Arabian horse in California, her dog Tasha, and cats Tabitha, Hijack, Hunter and Bogart.

Judy was preceded in passing by her mother June (Walser) Siegert and father Arnold Siegert, aunts Donna Mae Moore, Marguerite Walser, June Walser, Loretta (Red) Bahl, Lavina Kleis, Sally Reavell and Virginia (Ginny) Siegert. She was also preceded in passing by her uncles Donald (Boots) Walser, Robert (Bob) Leibold, Gene Gates, Al Siegert, Laverne Brimeyer, Eldon (Bub) Bahl, Bob (Ozzie) Kleis and George Reavell.    

Judy is survived by her favorite (and only) sibling Sandy Regan, her brother-in-law Jim Regan, her niece Jodi (Jim) Watters and their boys Eli and Elliot, her nephew Jeff Regan, his wife Helena Vervoort and their girls Anika, Winnifred, Veronica and Pippa, and her nephew Greg Regan. She is also survived by her aunts Betty (Walser) Liebold, Vera (Walser) Gates, Marlene (Siegert) Brimeyer, Betty Tigges, her uncle Bob Siegert.  Also surviving are many cousins on the Siegert side and only one cousin, Cheryl Walser Kramer, on the Walser side.  Lastly, Judy is survived by her special friend Roy Child of Port Orange FL. The family was unable to reach him, but he called three days after she died because he knew something was wrong. He said, “I’ll never forget her, I loved that little girl.”

The family wishes to thank Dr. Ringold, Dr. Putz, Dr. Powers, the staff at Tri State Dialysis, the staff at Eagle Point Place, and the nurses at Unity Point 5 North and ICU.

Our family would like to give a heartfelt thank you to Dr. John Whalen for his care and compassion, and for giving us the precious gift of six more years with Judy when she was under his care.

Judy, 
You are our hero, so brave, love always and forever.
Your family

Marilyn L. Bowling

Marilyn L. Bowling, 69, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday morning, August 3, 2020 at her home.

A celebration of her life will be held at 3 P.M., Thursday, August 6, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1 P.M. to 2:45 P.M. at the funeral home.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

It is recommended that you practice social distancing guidelines due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Marilyn Lyn Teters was born on December 28, 1950 in Maquoketa, Iowa to Marvin “Mugs” and Betty (Foster) Teters.  She was a graduate of Maquoketa High School and married Dennis Bowling on December 30, 1966 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  A daughter Denise was born to this union.

Marilyn completed her education by earning her degree as a licensed cosmetologist from Stewart Beauty School in Davenport.  She worked in the costmetology field for a short time and realized it was not for her.  She later worked at Yogurt Time at Northpark Mall in Davenport, Hungry Hobo in Davenport and lastly at Davenport Bank and Trust.

Marilyn enjoyed country western dancing, her flowers in her yard, painting and crafts, and playing Farmville on Facebook.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Dennis Bowling of Maquoketa, IA; a daughter and son-in-law, Denise and Terry Haugen of Leavenworth, KS; sister, Lois DeMoss of Dubuque, IA; a grandson, Nathaniel and his wife Tiffani Withers of Leavenworth, KS; and 2 great-grandchildren, Luke and Oliver Withers.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and sisters Arlene Regenwether and Wanda Berner.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marilyn L. Bowling memorial fund has been established.

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

Raymond J. Collins

Raymond J. Collins, PhD. 92 of Bethany Home passed away on July 31, 2020 at Bethany Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Joseph the Worker Church on Saturday, August 8th at 10:30 a.m.  with Rev. Jim Goerand officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. No public visitation will be held; a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page. Mask are required if attending mass.

Ray was born May 30, 1928 and grew up on a farm near Zwingle.  His parents were Roy and Katie (Laughlin) Collins.

After attending elementary schools in the Zwingle area, he graduated with highest distinction from St. Columbkille’s High School.  During the last semester of his senior year he took college courses at Loras College.  He earned a B.A. maxima cum laude (Loras College), a M.S. (The Catholic University of America) and a Ph.D. (The University of Minnesota), all in mathematics.

Ray enjoyed teaching mathematics and interacting with students on the college level.  His teaching career began at Loras College in Dubuque, IA.  In 1973 he joined the Mathematics Department of Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH.  As an associate professor, Ray was awarded tenure in 1976.  He served as chairperson of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department 1979-1982.  From 1990-1992 he was Project Director of a National Science Foundation funded project for the effective use of the computer in the teaching of calculus.  In 1994 Ray retired from Xavier University as Professor Emeritus of Mathematics.

On December 21, 1973 Ray married Patricia (Pat) L. Monnens at St. Barbara’s Church in Northern Kentucky.  Ray and Pat lived for many years in the Cincinnati area.  In 2010 Ray and Pat moved to the Bethany Retirement Center in Dubuque, Iowa.  This brought them closer to their families in Iowa and Minnesota.  In 2014 Ray was diagnosed with Parkinson’s.

While in Cincinnati they were active members of the Territorial Parish whose worship center (Bellarmine Chapel) and offices are located on the Xavier University campus.  Since moving to Dubuque, they were members of St. Joseph the Worker Parish.

During his retirement Ray worked on several small mathematical projects and continued to be active in gardening, flower-growing and carpentry around their home.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque.

Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Pat; parents, Roy and Katie Collins; brothers, Loras (Catherine) and Jim; sisters-in-law Audrey Runda, Marion Monnens, Jean Monnens; brothers-in-law Don Monnens, Fr. Merle Monnens and nephews Rick Collins, Dave Mausser and Jim Ehr. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Darlene Collins and many nieces and nephews

Ray’s family would like to extend their deep appreciation to each and every Bethany Home employee for their love, friendship and exceptional care given to Ray over the years. Also, to the residents of Bethany Home for their wonderful friendship. Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Medical Associates for their care and kindness given to Ray; and a special thank you to his two nieces Sharon Foust and Monica Redmond for all their loving care of Ray over the years.

Cody J. Gibson

Cody J. Gibson, age 19, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly as the result of a fall, on Wednesday, July 22, 2020, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Cody’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 6, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Due to COVID-19 concerns, the family asks that anyone attending please wear a mask.  To honor Cody’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, August 7, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Cody was born on October 6, 2000, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Lisa Gibson.

Cody was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 2019.  After graduation he began working in the construction industry for Bullseye Construction out of Maquoketa, Iowa.  Cody was always very active and loved spending time with his family and friends, never passing up the opportunity to take the perfect selfie.  He was a very light hearted guy, always joking and listening to music.  We are truly heartbroken at the sudden loss of Cody in our lives.  We love you, miss you, and are grateful for all of the happy memories we have to cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Cody’s memory include

his mother,
Lisa (Cody Roling) Gibson, Dubuque, IA;

his sister,
Nevaeh Klenzman, Dubuque, IA;

his grandparents,
Jean Matlock, Omaha, NE
and Caroll (June) Gibson, Dubuque, IA;

his aunt and 2 uncles,
Jenny (Benny Lopez) Gibson,
Joe (Angie French) Gibson
and Randy Gibson, all of Dubuque, IA;

and several cousins including Nathan Blackburn and Kalyssa (Mike Milroy) Wharton, with whom he shared a special bond.

Cody was preceded in death by his brother, Gavin Klenzman; his great-grandparents, Pat and Carol LuGrain; an uncle, Jeff Gibson; and 3 cousins, Alexander Gibson, Ashley LuGrain and Andy Gilbert.

Cody’s family would like to thank everyone for their kindness and support during this very difficult time.  Also a special thank you to Bullseye Construction for taking Cody under their wing, teaching him valuable skills, and giving him the opportunity to grow in his knowledge of the construction process.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Cody Gibson Family.

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

Janet M. Benischek

Janet M. (Andresen) Benischek, 81, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2020, at Mechanicsville Specialty Care in Mechanicsville, Iowa.

A celebration of her life is pending and will be announced at a later date next year.  Burial will be at Mayflower Cemetery, Oxford Junction, Iowa.

Janet Marlene Andresen was born on June 11, 1939 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Mark “Max” Andrew and Wilme Irene (Edwards) Andresen.  Her mom died in April of 1952 and her dad remarried Ila Brown later that year and helped raise her.  Janet grew up attending rural Baldwin school until her family moved to the Monmouth farm in 1954.  She was a 1956 graduate of Monmouth High School and after graduation enrolled in the Nursing Program at St. Luke’s Hospital Training School (now Genesis) to become an RN.  She then worked as a Registered Nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital as Head of the Pediatrics Department until a health issue required her to retire in 2005.

Janet married Stanley Victor Benischek on June 11, 1975 at the Wagon Wheel Lodge in Rockton, Illinois.  They lived in Davenport until earlier this year, when she was moved to Mechanicsville Specialty Care for rehab after suffering a stroke in October of 2019.

Janet loved genealogy, researching Andresen and Benischek family history.  She was an avid Hawkeyes fan, enjoyed eating out, appreciated art and music, and playing cards, especially Bridge Club.  She was actively involved with River Action and reviving areas along the Mississippi River most recently the Nahant Marsh Project.  Most importantly she loved her family and attending family and school reunions.  She always greeted you with a big smile.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Stanley Victor Benischek of Mechanicsville, IA; step-sons by marriage, Greg Benischek of Durant, IA, Mark (Donna) Benischek of Davenport, IA, and John (Gretl) Benischek of FL; 2 step-grandchildren Lucas and Jacob Benischek; a brother, Darrell Andresen of Maquoketa, IA; sister, Nancy (Larry) Morris of Cedar Rapids, IA; and a step-sister, Janet (Marvin) Hansen of Renton, WA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, step-brother Arnold (Alice) Brown and their two boys Gordon and Joel, and step-sister Norma (Allen) Clark.

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

Joseph J. Nehl

Joseph J. “Joe” Nehl, 87, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Saturday July 25th at Unity Point Health Finley Hospital with Connie, his loving wife by his side.

A funeral mass will be held Friday, August 7th at 10:30am at the Church of the Resurrection, officiated by Rev. Phillip Gibbs, with a gathering at the church social space at 9:30am.  Mass will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home Facebook Page. The interment service will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Monticello on Sat., Aug 8th at 11:00am with Rev. Paul Baldwin officiating. Military honors will be accorded.

Due to COVID-19 related concerns, the family asks everyone to wear a mask at all services and practice social distancing. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Ninth of 10 children, Joe was born on January 4th, 1933 to Charles and Rose (Gilbert) Nehl in Fillmore, IA.  After graduation from Sacred Heart High School in Monticello, Joe moved to Dubuque and enrolled in Loras College for one year.  Later the army drafted him where he served two years in Korea.  After discharge, he enrolled as a heavy equipment technician at Baily Technical School in St. Louis, MO, beginning a career and life-long passion in heavy equipment.

Joe worked for many companies throughout his career including: Franklin G. Hough Co., International Harvester, Herman M. Brown Co., Dressta, and Komatsu.  His job took him all over the country, as well as to Poland and the Dominican Republic.  Joe loved solving the most challenging problems to keep the machines moving for his customers.

In 1962, he married Connie Pacquer at Sacred Heart Church in Rock Island, IL.  They were blessed with two sons, Michael and Marcus while living in Columbus, OH. During their years together, Joe and Connie lived in Ohio and many Iowa and Illinois cities, each time establishing new friendships.

In 2005, they moved to Dubuque, IA, working at home for Komatsu North America, then retiring for the third and final time in 2007.  The move to Dubuque brought him back home to where he started his early adult years to be closer to his siblings and cousins.

After retiring, Joe found his second calling as a community volunteer.  For eleven years, 5 days/week, he delivered for Meals on Wheels.  For ten years he was a regular DU Ride driver.  Joe was also an avid reader and computer user.  He really “knew how to move that mouse around.”  He devoted countless hours creating original greeting cards for family and friends.

He was a fan of the Iowa State Cyclones, the Iowa Hawkeyes, and the Chicago Bulls, Bears, and Cubbies.  He loved reading the comics every day, loved to joke around, and often shared his great sense of humor, especially singing silly songs with friends and family.

He is survived by his wife Connie of 57 years.  His son, Michael of Carnation, WA (friend Laurel Nehl) and Marcus and life partner Theresa Elmore from Northglenn, CO, Grandson, Grant from Northglenn, CO, and Granddaughter McKenna Nehl from Greeley, CO; Brother-in-Law David (Arlene) Pacquer of Kewanee, IL., Brother-in-Law Greg Pacquer (Mike Johnson) of San Francisco, CA and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister Gerry (Paul) William, Vernon Nehl, Wally (Rose) Nehl, John (Janet) Nehl, Rita (Willis) Doden, Isabel (Joe) Lahr, Gib (Wanita) Nehl, Joan (Jack) Bockenstedt, and Gene (Angie) Nehl; mother-in-law Florence (Fred) Pacquer and sister-in-law Joan Pacquer.

The family thanks Dr. Powers and Dr. Ellis from Unity Point Hospital and the devoted nurses who cared for Joe.  Our hearts go out to them.

Connie thanks Joe for taking her on a wonderful journey of love for 57 years, filled with happy times and memories.  Along the way, they met such wonderful people.  We know Joe is delivering meals to his family and friends in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Joe’s name can be sent to Resurrection Parish, DU Ride, or Veterans at the Freedom Center in Dubuque

On-line condolences can be made at https://www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com/memorials/joseph-nehl/4286573/

Judy A. Switzer

Judy Ann Switzer, 71, of Dubuque, died Friday, July 31, 2020, at home surrounded by family.

Per her wishes, Judy donated her body to the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program in Iowa City.

Judy was born December 12, 1948, in Dubuque, the daughter of Clarence S. and Vera (Stowe) Switzer.

She grew up in Galena and graduated from Galena High School.

Judy enjoyed fishing, camping, cooking and spending time with her beloved cat, Panther Puss.

Survivors include two daughters, Julie (James) Harwick of Benton, WI and Victoria Conrad of Dubuque, four grandchildren, including her favorite grandson, Johnathon Conrad, 2 great-grandchildren, one brother, Gary (LuAnn) Switzer of Graf, IA, two half brothers, Tyler Switzer and Todd (Rhonda) Switzer, one half sister, Jodi Switzer and three sister-in-laws.

She was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, Bill Sheredy, Terry Switzer and Ronald Switzer, one grandchild, Joshua Grensing, step-father, Art Rangel.

The family would like to give special thanks to Larry Bowers and Hospice of Dubuque.

A memorial has been established and those wishing to send a card, please send to the funeral home with attention to “The Switzer Family”.

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