Obituaries Archive

Robert A. “Bob” Kaufman

Robert A. “Bob” Kaufman, age 70, of Lancaster, WI passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2020, following a short illness.

Bob was born July 27, 1949, to Thomas and Inez (Blum) Kaufman. After graduating from Cassville High School Bob served in the United States Air Force. After serving in the military Bob moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania where he met and married Jan Barlow. While he lived in Pennsylvania, Bob worked for Bethlehem Steel for 29 years.

Bob was an avid New York Yankees, Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers fan.

Bob is survived by his fiancée Debra Kirschbaum; sisters: Patricia (Morris) Schauff, Donna Klauer, Susan Crandall, Kathy (Steve) Marx, Tina (Roger) Breuer; his brothers: Rod (Linda Kluesner) Kaufman, Kevin (Sue Neis) Kaufman. Bob is also survived by sisters-in-law: Maria (Fritz) Kaufman and Bonnie (Gary) Kaufman and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his wife Jan, parents, Tom and Inez, brothers: Fritz and Gary Kaufman.

Due to COVID-19, the family will not be holding a viewing or funeral at this time. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Lancaster is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Cletus J. Hilby

Cletus Joseph Hilby, 90, of Galena, formerly of Menominee, passed peacefully Easter Sunday morning, April 12, 2020, at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community.

Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will not be having a public memorial at this time. A celebration of Clete’s life will be held at a later date and time to be announced.

A private family Mass of Christian Burial will be at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Cletus was born November 23, 1929 in Menominee, IL, son of Leo and Sophie (Wubben) Hilby.  Cletus served in the U.S. Army from 1953-1955 with most of his time being stationed at Ft. Meade, MD.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lois Budden, on October 6, 1954 at St. Joseph Church, Sinsinawa, WI.  Cletus and Lois enjoyed almost 65 years together.  After returning from the service Cletus and Lois farmed in the Menominee area.  Cletus was able to help on the family farm until into his 80’s.  He was especially proud that the family farm has been in the Hilby name for over 150 years.

One of the highlights of his life was to be able to participate in a Dubuque Honor Flight to Washington, DC in Sept. of 2013 with his daughter Nancy.  He enjoyed a good game of Euchre, loved to discuss anything to do with farming with his sons and sons-in-law, and especially loved spending time with his family, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a lifelong member of Nativity BVM Parish and a member of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

Cletus is survived by his six children, Diane (Glenn) Heller, Nancy (Paul) Fleege, Cathy (Mike) Brotzman, Bob (Polly) Hilby, Joyce (Randy) Wills and Tom (Judy) Hilby; 13 grandchildren, 7 step-grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren with 2 babies due in the next few months, and 11 step-great-grandchildren with a baby due in September; one brother Kenneth Hilby, three sisters, Rosetta Arand, Rita Berning, and Lorraine Wills; brothers and sisters-in-law, Wayne Arand, Louis Berning, Eileen Hilby, Richard and Kay Budden, Arlene Budden, Ellen Timmerman,  Judy Budden-Tigges, and many nieces and nephews.

Cletus was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Lois; 2 grandsons, Jared Fleege and Nick Hilby; his siblings Merlin Hilby and Viola Scharpf; his brothers and sisters-in-law Bob Scharpf, LaVerne Wills, Janice Hilby, Jim and Roger Budden, Clair and Joan Kieler, and Dick Timmerman.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community for their wonderful care the last year of his life, and Lee Donar for his visits.

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

Paul H. Yarolem

Paul H. Yarolem, 56, of Savanna, Illinois, and formerly of Nashville, Iowa, passed away on April 11, 2020, from injuries received in an automobile accident on Illinois Route 84 north of Fulton, Illinois.

A private graveside service and burial celebrating Paul’s life will be held at a later date at Canton, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Paul Harvey Yarolem was born on January 18, 1964 in Iowa City, Iowa, the youngest of six children born to Rex and Marlene (Ringen) Yarolem. He was a 1983 graduate of Andrew High School and then spent four years in the Army National Guard.

Paul was a lifelong mechanic. Through the years he was employed with various automobile dealerships and also worked on cars as a small side business. In addition to his job as a mechanic, he worked as a handyman doing home restorations. He loved being with friends and family and restoring vehicles.

Those left to honor Paul’s memory include his children, Patrick Yarolem of Davis Junction, IL and Nicole Yarolem of Rockford, IL; his mother, Marlene Yarolem of Baldwin, IA; siblings, Steve Yarolem of Baldwin, IA, Rexann Roach of Ft. Madison, IA, Mike (Connie) Yarolem of Maquoketa, IA, Jody Yarolem of Oxford Junction, IA, and Tim (Thelma) Yarolem of Wyoming, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his father Rex Yarolem on January 13, 2001.

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.

Lawrence D. Flesch

Lawrence “Larry” Donald Flesch, age 68, of Blue Mounds formerly of Potosi, died peacefully on Good Friday, April 10, 2020, at his home with his loving wife by his side.

Larry was born on October 17, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Donald and Florence (Reynolds) Flesch.  He graduated from Cassville High School in 1969.  After high school, Larry worked at the Potosi Brewery and then John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works in Dubuque, retiring after 30 years.  He was an avid outdoorsman, spending many days hunting, camping and fishing.  Larry was passionate about his Roman Catholic Faith and belonged to St. Ignatius Catholic Church in Mount Horeb, the Knights of Columbus, and St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson.  On June 30, 2007, he was united in marriage to Margaret “Marge” Fried.  Larry was a kind person and had many friends.  He lived life to the fullest.  During his illness, he never complained.  Larry will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Marge; his children:  Amber Marie (William) Osmulski; Nicholas Jon (Rebecca) Flesch; Tiffany Ann (David) Michalkiewicz; step-children: Amy (Mark) Wipperfurth; Angie (Kurt) Phillips; grandchildren: Eli, Nolan, Theo, and Mack; step-grandchildren: Tara, Casey, Lexi, Austin, Deven, Cole; 1 step-great-grandchild, Emma; his siblings:  Sandy Drapeau; Steve (Kim) Flesch; Pam (Mike) Fritz; Karla (Randy) Lange; Kevin (Beth) Flesch; David (Joy) Flesch; Angie (Tom) Reinecke; Jim (Roxane) Flesch.

In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by his brother, Douglas.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Father Richard Leffler officiating.  Burial will be in St. Thomas Cemetery, Potosi.  A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Potosi is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences:  www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Robert J. Mezera

Robert “Bob” J. Mezera, age 83 of Glen Haven, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on January 29, 1937 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, the son of Matthew and Rose (Morovits) Mezera.  Bob graduated from Prairie du Chien High school in 1955.  On August 23, 1958 he was united in marriage to Marcia G. Hedeman at St. John’s Catholic Church in Prairie du Chien. After their marriage, Bob and Marcia lived and worked for a short time in the Madison area. Bob later worked at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works in Dubuque, Iowa for 30 years.

Along with his career at John Deere, Bob was a full-time dairy farmer his entire life. Bob and Marcia first farmed in Bridgeport, and later purchased a farm in Glen Haven.  After his retirement in 1996, he continued to help his sons on their family farms. Bob was a devoted member of St. Mary Help of Christians Parish in Glen Haven. He was also a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus for 40 years, actively helping with many service projects for Wisconsin Badger Camp and other local charities. He also served as the Council’s Financial Secretary and Grand Knight.

Bob loved to play cards, fish, sing karaoke, and play golf.  He loved gardening and took pride in his beautiful backyard.  Bob loved his family very much and enjoyed attending school and sporting activities of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Most of all Bob loved holidays and casual gatherings when his home was filled with family.

He is survived by his children:  Sue (Tom) Kuenster, Jeff (Julie) Mezera, Scott (Jenny Udelhofen) Mezera, Angie (Jeff) Redman, Krista (Lonnie) Hiley, and Nikki (Brad) Nemitz; 31 grandchildren; 42 great grandchildren; siblings: Lucille Casper, Elaine (Bill) Fischer, Mary (Pete) Neisius, and Mark (Mary Jane) Mezera; in laws:  Charlotte Mezera, Karla (Curt) Troester, Robyn (Lori) Hedeman, Steve (Mary) Hedeman, Michael Hedeman; and many nieces and nephews.

Bob is preceded in death by his loving wife, Marcia; parents, Matthew and Rose Mezera; his father and mother-in-law, Gerald and Jacquelyn Hedeman; twin granddaughters, Jill and Jennifer Mezera; great grandson, Bryce Heckendorf; sister, Joanne Mezera; brothers, Eugene (Geraldine), Richard, Gerald, and Paul (Bonnie) Mezera; brother-in-law, Tom Casper; and nephew, Johnathan Hedeman.

Private family Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at St. Mary Help of Christians Parish in Glen Haven, with Father John Meinholz officiating.  Burial will be in Gockel Cemetery, Glen Haven.  A Memorial Mass in Bob’s Memory followed by a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Bloomington is entrusted with his care.

Online condolences:  www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Robert B. Wessels

Robert “Bob” B. Wessels, 81, of Dyersville and formerly of Dubuque died April 10, 2020, at home after a yearlong battle with an aggressive form of bladder cancer.

Bob was born in Dyersville, IA to Edward and Frances Wessels.  After proudly serving in the Unites States Air Force, he went to work at John Deere Dubuque Works for 34 years.

He found the love of his life, Doris Osterhaus, on the dance floor and together they spent 57 faith-filled years together.  They started their life together in Dubuque where they raised their two children before returning to Dyersville.

Bob spent the majority of his retirement doing volunteer work at the Basilica and in the community, visiting his grandchildren, traveling and enjoying his family and friends.  He enjoyed golfing, coffee with friends, helping others, and watching the Cubs and Hawkeyes.  He was honored to be a member of the American Legion Post 137.

In the words of his grandchildren: “Grandpa has always been a sweet, caring, giving man.  He will do whatever he possibly can to help somebody, and expect nothing in return.  He would go to the ends of the Earth if it meant putting a smile on his grandchildren’s faces.  He was a devoted husband who loyally used the catch phrase “yes dear”.  He is one of the strongest men I know, and faced his battle with cancer like the hero he is.”

 Bob left a lasting impression on all those he met.  He exemplified faith, family and patriotism, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.  Left to cherish his memories are his wife, Doris; his son Patrick (Karen) of Wildwood, MO, his daughter Nancy (Wayne) Quade of Milbank, SD, and his eight grandchildren: Justin, LeShea, Mitchell, and Victoria “Tori” Quade, Maggie, Gracie, Libby and Kate Wessels; his brothers: LeRoy (Irene) and Lloyd (Eunice); his in-laws: Joan Lahr, Roger (Darlene) Osterhaus, Ruth (John) Ries, Marian (Bob) Philipp, Shirley (friend James Loucky) Osterhaus, Dave (Marilyn) Osterhaus, Rita (Paul) Wilhelm, Dan Osterhaus and Loras (Penny) Osterhaus, and many niece and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers in infancy, sister, Verna Watts; parents-in-law, Emily and Ambrose Osterhaus, and a brother-in-law, Jim Lahr.

Please leave online condolences for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Cards, letters and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home at 750 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.  Memorials are preferred to Beckman Catholic High School, St. Francis Xavier Basilica or the Dubuque County Right to Life.

Graveside services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, April 17, 2020, at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.  If you wish to attend, please stay in your vehicles as we must comply with all current precautions for the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration.

Louann M. (Frank) Mottet

Louann Mary (Frank) Mottet, 65, of Bellevue, passed away after a truly courageous battle with cancer surrounded by the love of her family at the University of Iowa Hospital on April 11, 2020.

A Private Funeral Mass will be conducted at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue at this time , Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A public memorial visitation and funeral mass will be planned for a later date and time. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Louann was born January 19, 1955, daughter of Aloysius “Pete” and Mildred (Kueter) Frank. She graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1973 and furthered her education at Clinton Community as ADN (1984), Clarke College as BSN (1995), and University of Phoenix as MSN (2006). She married Thomas J Mottet on June 29, 1973 at St Joseph’s Catholic Church. They were blessed with six sons – Scott, Timothy, Seth, John, Brent, & Nathan. She was a devout caregiver in every essence of the word. For decades Louann worked as an Oncology nurse at MercyOne in Dubuque, IA. Louann dedicated her life to her career and loved her colleagues and patients like they were family. She received “100 Iowa Great Nurses” Award in 2008 and retired on June 2, 2019.

Louann’s profession of love was being a Mother and a Grandmother. To know her was to love her. She was the matriarch of the family and they remember her for her undeniable selfless nature, compassion, and her ability to make everyone smile and feel loved. Her greatest joy in life were her sons, their families, and her sweet grandchildren. They were her pride and joy and she was their everything. No matter where or what she was doing with them, that time spent together was her favorite. Louann loved her life and lived each day to the absolute fullest. She deeply loved her siblings, in-laws, extended family, nieces & nephews, and her many wonderful friends. When Louann became the patient, she received the utmost care from her doctors, nurses, and additional staff at MercyOne in Dubuque, Medical Associates in Dubuque, and her team at the University of Iowa Hospital. For that, her family is eternally grateful as well as for their expertise and compassionate care. Her sentiments for others were “be kind, have faith, and make so many memories with your family and friends”.

Survivors include her adoring husband of 46 years, Tom; her children Scott (Janet) of Bellevue, Seth (Mallory) of Ames, John of Riverside, and Brent (Ali) of Bellevue; grandchildren Jessica Keasler, Tabitha & Gabriella Williamson, Matthew Herman, Layton & Delainy Mottet and granddaughter on the way in August; great-grandchildren Selena Harmon & Gabe Gibson; siblings Wayne Frank, Rich & Julaine Frank, and Donald & Nancy Frank; in-laws Marilyn Harris, Nancy Brandon, Don & Donna Mottet, Paul & Diane Mottet, and Rick & Linda Dickerson; and many special nieces and nephews.

Louann was preceded in death by her sons Timothy & Nathan Mottet, a grandson Kyler Mottet, her parents Aloyisus “Pete” and Mildred Frank, her father and mother-in-law Ed & Corrine Mottet, sister-in-law’s Ann Dickerson and Joan Frank, and brother-in-law Mark Mottet.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to Hachmann Funeral Home c/o of Louann Mottet Family at 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA 52031.

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

Vivian L. Strom

Vivian L. (Jecklin) Strom, 67 of Pittsburgh, PA passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2020 surrounded by her loving family after a courageous three-year battle with cancer.

Vivian was born on October 27, 1952 to parents Donald L. Sr. and Mary C (Cavanaugh) Jecklin of Peosta.  She was a 1970 graduate of Western Dubuque High School and married her high school sweetheart, Stephen C. Strom on August 11, 1973.

Her loved ones will remember her as a selfless nurturer of all people and animals.

Her favorite gift to the world was to feed others.  She would immediately ask everyone that entered her house if they were hungry or needed something to eat.  The Priests at the neighborhood church were delivered hot meals from her kitchen daily for well over a decade.  She spent several years preparing meals for patients at the Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center.  Even the family dog and cat often received home cooked meals while freshly-popped popcorn was being marched out to the chicken coop.

Another of her gifts was sewing and quilting.  She made sure to constantly shower her loved ones with beautiful quilts, blankets or other handmade gems that were made just for them.  There are many magnificent crafts that she left behind for the world to remember her by.

Those left to honor Vivian’s memory include her husband Stephen; children; Brian (Molly Lindsey) Strom, of Pittsburgh, Stephanie (Shane) O’Neil, of Charlotte, NC and Robert Strom,  of Pittsburgh; siblings; Rita (Dave) Ruden, of Dubuque, Donald Jecklin Jr. (special friend Julie Van Zile), of Peosta, Sally (Dean) Heacock, of Durango, Rosie (Bob) Mueller, of Epworth, Lois (Dennis) Schmidt, of Dubuque, and Jane Jecklin, of Peosta; a special aunt, Sharon (Charles) Hermsen, of Dyersville who was like a sister; sister- in-laws; Deb (Sol Pobre) Frasher, of Wichita, Corine Watzka, of Wichita, Vicki (Dave) Fink, of Lake Delhi, Susie (Steve) Meyer, of Lake Delhi, Jackie (Becky Kraft) Stuart, of Wichita, Kim Strom, of Little Rock and brother-in-law Eric (Ida) Strom, of California and many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews .

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, her parents, Donald Sr. and Mary Jecklin, her father and mother-in-law Duane and Phyllis Strom and a brother-in-law Michael Strom.

Although there will not be a service, a fund has been established at Western Dubuque High School in the name of the Jecklin and Strom Families for anyone who would like to donate.

James F. Arthofer

James F. “Jim” Arthofer, age 84 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on April 10, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on November 26, 1935 in Iowa City, Iowa, one of 7 children to Peter and Charlotte (Finzel) Arthofer.  It didn’t take long for Jim to realize and appreciate the importance of family, friendship, an honest day’s work, and balance in all areas of life.  Jim would spend his 84 years always putting his family first.  Whether by adoring and protecting his wife of 55 years, Judie, providing for his family, nurturing his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, or simply spending a little quality time catching up with family members whenever possible; Jim never allowed his heart to place anything above his loved ones.

He proudly served his country with the U.S. Army before beginning his many years working at the Dubuque Packing Company.  He had dreams of owning his own business and eventually started Triple J Septic Service and continued to find great pride in watching his accomplishment continue on through the generations to follow.  Jim never feared hard work, but he also knew that it was not only good to find some downtime at the end of the day, but also quite necessary for a healthy and fulfilled life.  He continually looked forward to hunting season, but a day relaxing on the river with a fishing pole in hand would also do the trick.  An occasional trip to the casino to try his luck would also make the list, but a cold beer in the back yard was surely an acceptable response to the end of the day as well.  But, again, time with his family was Jim’s favorite way to pass the time.  His unwavering devotion, unsolicited advice and quick wit could always bring a smile to the face of anyone lucky enough to spend a little time visiting with Jim.

We will miss our dear husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother and friend more than any words could accurately depict, and our hearts absolutely break with the thought that our last conversation has sadly taken place now.  We are beyond grateful for the time that we’ve had and will pray for healing in our hearts, hope for peace in our minds and treasure every single memory Jim leaves behind.  Thank you, Jim, for being yourself with consistent measure through each day and may the arms of the Lord hold you safely and securely until we get to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his loving wife,
Judith K. “Judie” Arthofer, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 children,
Jimmy “Jim” (Illa) Arthofer,
Joey “Joe” (Tina) Arthofer,
and Julie (Brian) Gross, all of Dubuque, Iowa;

his 6 grandchildren,
Shelby (Adam) Slade, Colton Arthofer, Hailey Arthofer, Adam (Holly) Gross, Alex Gross and Aaron Gross;

his 3 great-grandchildren,
Jaxson Gross, Asher Gross and Jack Slade;

his 2 brothers,
Charles “Chuck” (Joyce) Arthofer,
and Mike (Mazie) Arthofer, both of Dubuque, Iowa;

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

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Rosie (Ben) Greenwood, Betty (Joe) Donahue, Elsie (Dick) Burns, and Boniface “Bunny” Arthofer; and his sister-in-law, Joyce Arthofer.

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

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

Raphael P. Reinert

Raphael P. Reinert, 79, of Sherrill, died Saturday, April 11, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Our dear dad and grandpa deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please be with us in prayer.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill with Rev. Father Noah Diehm as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in SS. Peter & Paul Cemetery.

Ray was born July 23, 1940, in Dubuque, the son of Joseph and Ida Loewen Reinert. On September 1, 1962 he married Glenda M. Orcutt in Guttenberg. Ray and Glenda met at a dance and spent the next 55+ years dancing together before her passing on January 20,2018.

Ray worked at John Deere Dubuque Works prior to operating the family farm beginning in 1964. He was a dairy and crop farmer, selling O’s Gold Seed Corn for several years. He was named Outstanding Young Farmer from 1972-1974. Upon “retirement” in 1997, he began and operated Ray Reinert Trucking until 2017. Ray thoroughly enjoyed being around neighbors, fellow farmers and people in general. He always had a smile and a quick sense of humor. He served on the boards of the Sherrill Fire Department and the Dubuque County Farm Bureau.

Those left to cherish his memory include his four children; Lisa (Steve) Klein of Dubuque, Chris (Tina) Reinert of Dubuque, Renae (Dennis) Schueller of Durango, Juanita (Kevin) Soppe of Sherrill; 8 granddaughters, Shelly (Jarred), Nicole (Justin), Hannah (Cody), Ashley, Rachael, Shannon, Hailey, and Emily; 4 grandsons, Dan, Kyle (Stephanie), Matt (Julie), and Brett; two great grandsons, Parker and Henrick; three brothers; Bernard (Lori) Reinert of St. Louis, Frank (Bev) Reinert of Dubuque, Peter (Betty) Reinert of Hazel Green; two sisters; Catherine Orman of Santa Rosa, CA, Molly (Mike) Murray of Olney, IL;  two sister-in-laws; Delores Reinert of Dubuque, Karen (Gerald) Kennicker of Millville, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, John (Margie) Reinert, Mary (Paul) Noesen, Tony (Pauley) Reinert, Sister Paul Clara, Charles Reinert, Lucy (Ken) Donovan, Herman Reinert and Joe (Karel) Reinert.

Thanks dad, for the memories- playing tag in the barn, baseball in the back yard, endless loads of hay to unload and morning barn cleanings. You were always there for us and we will always “love you more.”

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

John E. Ehlers

John E. Ehlers, 87, of  Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 9, 2020 at Sunnycrest Manor.

Private mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens with military honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

John was born June 5, 1932 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of John H. and Lorraine (Schmitt) Ehlers.

John married Joan (Hartman) Ehlers October 1958, they had 6 children: Jackie Cook – Dubuque, Julie (Dave) Wolf – Asbury, Janiece (Mark) Bolender – Cottage Grove, WI, Jeff (Terri) Ehlers – Dyersville, Jane (Dave) Hoeger – Montezuma, Joe (Jen) Ehlers – Epworth.

John has been a longtime resident in Dubuque County, he enjoyed farming in the Cascade, Sherrill and Rickardsville areas. He retired after many years as a Walnut Grove feed salesman. He was also co-owner of the Ritz Restaurant, Dyersville from 1981 – 1988.

John had a strong faith in God and Jesus as his savior. John enjoyed fishing, singing at family weddings and dances at the fairgrounds. His final years at Sunnycrest Manor he enjoyed singing to his nursing staff and his longtime friends at Sunnycrest Manor.

John is preceded in death by his parents John H. and Loraine Ehlers; his wife Joan Ehlers; brothers Donald and Lloyd; sisters Helen Ehlers and Mary Ann Fiedler; his grandson John L. Cook; and nephews Daniel Ehlers, David Ehlers and Jason Ehlers.

Along with his children, John is also survived by his brothers Dave, Terry, Chuck; his sisters Doris “Dorie” Cutter and Betty Schroder; twelve grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

Robert L. Sprosty

Robert L. “Bob” Sprosty, 75, of Bettendorf, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday evening, April 8, 2020, at Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, Iowa.

A private family service celebrating “Bob’s” life will be held on Tuesday, April 14, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  A private family visitation will also be held on Tuesday at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Robert Leonard Sprosty was born on October 29, 1944 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, to Leonard Wencil and Mae Agnes (Fisher) Sprosty.  He was a 1962 graduate of Davenport Assumption High School and a 1966 graduate of St. Ambrose University with a degree in History.  He married Deanna Sue Kelly of Maquoketa, Iowa, on September 17, 1966 in Davenport, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Michael Robert, Christopher Adam and Michele Elizabeth.

“Bob” had worked at Crescent Electric Supply in Davenport as a purchasing agent for 47 years, retiring in 2013.

“Bob” was an avid bowler and had previously served as President of the Davenport Bowling Association.  He had also served as Vice President of the Davenport Kiwanis Club.  In addition to bowling, he enjoyed gardening, coin collecting, and watching old western movies.  He had traveled to 49 of the 50 states with the exception being Alaska.  He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and for many years was well known for working security at all Iowa Hawkeyes sporting events.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Deanna Sprosty of Bettendorf, IA; children, Michael Robert Sprosty of Orefield, PA, Christopher Adam Sprosty of Davenport, IA, and CDR Michele (and her husband Robert “Ross” Carron) Sprosty of Norfolk, VA; 2 grandchildren, Jacob Sprosty and Ava Carron; and brothers, Donald (Natalie) Sprosty of Bettendorf, IA, and Douglas Sprosty of Davenport, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House.

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.

Raymond J. Scherrman

Raymond J. “Ray” Scherrman 89, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Thursday, April 9, 2020, due to dementia. A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Raphael Cathedral. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Farley, Iowa. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Ray was born on June 19, 1930 in Farley, Iowa, the son of Joseph and Marie (Carden) Scherrman. He graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Farley in 1948. Raymond served in the U.S. Army, Heavy Mortar Company 5 th Regimental Combat team during the Korean Conflict from 1952-1954. On November 20, 1954, he was united in marriage to Pearl McBride at St. Joseph’s Church in Farley.

After returning from the service he farmed north of Farley and ran an excavating business.

From 1972-1976, he served on the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors. From 1976-1983, he worked at J.P. Scherrman Implement, a business founded by his father. In 1983, he became the Secondary Road Maintenance Manager for the Dubuque County Highway Department, where he worked until his retirement in 2005. Raymond was active in his community throughout his life, serving on multiple boards and organizations over the years. Ray was a member and past commander for the Scherrman Peterson American Legion Post 0656. He was a founding member of the Western Dubuque School Board and served from 1960-1972, having previously served on the Farley Public School Board. He served on the Draft Board, Dubuque County Mental Health Board, Camp Albrecht Acres, the Farley State Bank Board of Directors, the Farley Park Board, Western Dubuque Band Parents Association, Crime Stoppers, and the Dubuque County Democratic Party.

Ray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Pearl of Farley, IA; his children Dave (Barbara) Scherrman of Janesville, WI, Jerry (Bobbie) Scherrman of Cedar Rapids, IA, Tim (Janis) Scherrman of Dubuque, IA and Carol and Kathleen Scherrman both of Farley, IA; his grandchildren Tami (Rich) Griffin, Adam (Jo Ann) Hoffmann, Justin (Kassi) Scherrman, Ashley (Sean) Carey, Jacob (Ashley) Scherrman, Ryan (Tiffany) Scherrman, Amanda (Alex) Brant, Abby Scherrman and Sarah Scherrman; 10 great grandchildren and 20 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters and their spouses, Virginia & John Hoefer and Ann Leonard Siegert, daughter-in-law Cindy Martin Scherrman, brothers-in-law the Rev. James J. McBride, Leo McBride, and Leon Kramer, sisters-in-law Madonna McBride and Mary McBride.

The Scherrman family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and to Dr. Mark Moore and his staff for their wonderful care and support.

Those wishing to send memorials in Ray’s name may do so to either the Veteran’s Freedom Center in Dubuque or the Farley Fire and EMS.

James C. Hendrickson

James C. “Lumpy” Hendrickson, 42, of Bloomington, WI, formerly of Galena, IL, passed away April 8th, 2020 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Potosi, WI.  Jamie deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with Covid 19, having a public visitation is not possible. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Jamie was born on August 19th, 1977 in Galena, IL, the son of Ronald and Rosemary (Winter) Hendrickson.

Jamie was a self-employed carpenter, he owned and operated H.E. Square Construction.

Jamie had a love for dirt track racing, riding his Harley, playing cards, but had no bigger love than he had for his girls.

Jamie is survived by his parents, Ronald and Rosemary Hendrickson of Galena, IL, his fiancé, Cindy Ross of Bloomington, WI, 4 daughters, Hannah, HopeAnn, Elonna, at home, Edna Richardson of Platteville, WI, brother Jeff Hendrickson of Hazel Green, WI, sister Joanne (Jim) Fonger of Hanover, IL, brother Justin (Lisa) Hendrickson of Dubuque, IA, granddaughter Roselee, Platteville, WI, several aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by grandparents Luther “Slim” and Myrtle Hendrickson and Clarence and Rita Winter.

At a future time, when it is safe for everyone to be together, we will have a celebration of Jamie’s life. Until then, cards may be sent to 205 Park Ave Galena, IL 61036.

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

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

Robert A. Larsen

Robert A. Larsen, age 81, of Lancaster, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at his home.

He was born on March 16, 1939, in Fond du Lac, the son of Arthur and Luella (Brunet) Larsen.

Robert entered the United States Navy at the age of 17 and served his country until his honorable discharge and retirement in 1975 as a Chief Petty Officer. On August 30, 1997, he married Tamara (Cantrall) Ganley. Robert enjoyed his work in politics, the school board in Zion, IL, and City Council in New Jersey. His second retirement after 20 years in the Navy was with WGLR, Lancaster.

Robert enjoyed working in Community Theatre and his final years were spent doing artwork with his son, John and a special time there at River’s Edge Gallery in Kerrville, TX.

Survivors include his loving wife, Tamara Larsen; his children: Timothy (Mary) Larsen, Gloucester, NJ; Dan Larsen, Bridgeton, NJ; John (Patty) Larsen, Mullica Hill, NJ; Jim (Hiroko) Larsen, Sasebo, Japan; Julie Larsen, Woodbury Heights, NJ; step-son, Pat Ganley, Lancaster; 5 grandchildren; his siblings: Gloria Bauer and Carol Sobojinski, all of Oshkosh; a sister-in-law, Dixie Larsen, Oshkosh.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his first wife, Patricia “Pat” Larsen; his siblings, Dave Larsen and Judy (Larry) Ebel.

A Celebration of Life and burial with military honors at Van Buren Cemetery, Potosi, will be held at a later date. Martin Schwartz Funeral Homes & Crematory in Lancaster is serving the family.

Online condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com