Obituaries Archive

Jean A. George

Jean A. (Gasper) George, age 79, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, January 11, 2021, at her home.  To celebrate Jean’s life, private family services were held.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Jean was born on October 10, 1941, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Pete and Marcella (Sahm) Gasper.

Jean was a proud life long resident of Dubuque.  She was united in marriage to Eldon George on June 27, 1964, at Holy Ghost Church.  They were truly blessed with 56 years of marriage, and 2 children together.  Jean was a hard worker who was employed in the sewing department at Flexsteel Industries for 27 years until her well earned retirement in 1996.  She was a former member of St. Mary’s Church, the Women of the Moose, the DAV Women’s Auxiliary and a U.I.U. #1861 Union Member.  In her free time, she was an avid Bingo player and occasionally headed out to the casino to try her luck with the penny slot machines.  She also liked getting together with her friends at Oak Park Place to play cards.  Family was no doubt the most important aspect of Jean’s life.  She especially loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  Jean was a wonderful woman who enjoyed life and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Jean’s memory include

her husband,
Eldon George, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Roxane (Charlie) Sisler, Dubuque, IA
and Kevin (Joyce) George, Verona, WI;

her 5 grandchildren,
Nick (Kari) Sisler, Brandon Sisler, Amanda (Kyle) Bergfeld, Kirstin George and Jordan (Karoline) George;

her 6 great-grandchildren,
Owen, Cameron, Beatrice, Mia, Mason and Kya;

and her siblings,
Theresa (Floyd) Kuntz,
Mary George,
Jane Smothers
and John “Jack” Gasper, all of Dubuque, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Shirley Gasper,
Dorothy Degenhardt,
Lavone (Jim) Haxmeier,
Charlene Dunwoody,
Lois George
and Jiamjit George Donovan;

and her brother-in-law,
Milton “Ogger” (Mary Ellen) George.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Matthew Gasper; her sisters-in-law, Margaret (Chester) Budd, Idel (Dallas) Bartlett and Carol George; and her brothers-in-law, Merlin George, Marvin Smothers, Jim Degenhardt, Dick Dunwoody, Wilfred George, Edwin “Butch” (Georgia) George, Darryl George and Robert George.

Jean’s family would like to thank all of the 1st Responders from the Dubuque Police and Fire Departments for their assistance and kindness.

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

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

Mary E. Sullivan

Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Sullivan, 96, of Scottsdale, AZ and formerly of Dubuque passed away peacefully January 11, 2021 in Scottsdale.

She was born on August 2, 1924 in Bernard, Iowa the daughter of Louis and Kathryn (Meehan) Moriarty. She married John W. Sullivan on November 21, 1946 at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on Sept. 29, 2012.

She was a homemaker and a full-time mom most of her life, and a member of the Church of the Nativity and the Rosary and Guild Society. She loved to bake and played golf in the Ladies Day league at Lacoma golf course.

Surviving are her three children John (Barbara) Sullivan of Bolivar, OH, Diane Sullivan of Overland Park, KS and Colleen (Steve) Hook of Scottsdale, AZ and four grandchildren Morgan, Meredith, Mackenzie and Christina.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter Carol; three sisters, Mary Moriarty, Rita Roussel and Bernadine Grevas; and three brothers, Jack, Ray and Jim Moriarty.

A celebration of Betty’s life will be held and announced at a later date. Her burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Betty’s family would like to thank the staff of Tuscan Place especially Claudia, Valerie, Mary, Michelle and Adelina for their wonderful care and compassion.

George F. Stappert, Jr.

George F. “Bob” Stappert Jr., 74, of Potosi, Wisconsin, passed away on January 12th, 2021 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital in Dubuque. As per George’s wishes, no services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

George was born on March 6th, 1946 in Exeter, England the son of George Sr. and Freda (Sandercock) Stappert. He married Mary Ann Behncke on December 28th, 1963 at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. George served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War from 1963 until 1967. He was a Radio Man stationed at the Cinpac Fleet.

After leaving the Navy, George worked different jobs before starting at John Deere. He started at Deere’s in 1969 and retired in 2003 after 34 years. After being retired a few years, he got restless and got a job as a driver for Woodward Communications, a position he held for 14 years.

George loved to fish, especially with Joe at Apple Canyon. He enjoyed deer hunting and was able to continue to hunt in his later years with his son and grandson by his side. George loved to ride his Trike and take side by side rides.

He is survived by his Wife, Mary Ann; his Son, Roger (Michelle) Stappert, of Potosi, and their children, Derek Eggers, Kerrigan (Dominic) Pagliaro, Taryn and Gunnar Stappert. Derek’s children, Desirea, Caleigh and Connor; Son-in-law, Sam Willett, of Peosta, and his children Brianna and Justin (Mary Ann); A great granddaughter, Dylan; his mother-in-law, Dorothy Behncke; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Eileen Markus and Roger Stappert; a daughter, Sheri Willett, and Father-in-law, Leonard Behncke.

Mary Ann and Roger would like to thank the nursing staff in the ICU and 5 North at Finley Hospital.

Laura K. Paar

Laura K. Paar, 56, of Dubuque died Monday, January 11, 2021.  Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. that will be live streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Facebook page. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, social distancing and masks will be required.

Laura was born September 24, 1964, daughter of Dennis and Karen (Kelley) Paar.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Company,  Ron’s five points, Eagles, and Road Ranger.

She enjoyed her pitbull, Daisy Mae, who was always by her side.

She is survived by her parents, Dennis and Karen Paar; four children, Kevin (Samantha Fries) Billmeyer, Joshua Paar, Krisstal (Jacob Shaffer) Jackson, and Destini Kohl; three grandchildren, Saria, Kairei and  Laklynn,  and one due in February, Raelyn.

She is also survived by a brother, Eric (Sara) Paar; and three nephews and a niece.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, Quality Medical, and Dr. Braden Powers and his staff for their care.

Paula F. Freund

Paula F. Freund, age 55, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed from our hands into the waiting arms of her Savior on January 10, 2021, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa. Although there will be no public services at this time, a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Paula’s family.

Paula was born on July 21, 1965 in Dubuque, Iowa to Richard and Barbara (Cupps) Freund. She received her education from Holy Ghost Grade School, Wahlert High School, and studied at Loras College. Paula devoted 21 years of her working career to Flexsteel Industries as a Training Coordinator/ Subject Matter Expert, and a Sales Expeditor.

Paula was a loving mother to her son, Devante. She equally enjoyed playing with her grandkids, Evan and Elijah. She looked forward to spending time out with her many friends and her monthly Bunco card games. Furthermore, Paula treasured her cat Tig Tig and dog Luda.

Spring of 2018 Paula was diagnosed with ALS Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Throughout her courageous battle, she always kept a positive attitude and had a kind and gentle spirit. Paula most appreciated the fundraising efforts and personal support she received from her Flexsteel family. In keeping with their kindness, they frequently took her to dinner and visited her at home. Additionally, her friends and alumni from Wahlert High School, initiated a fundraiser for ALS research for which she was very grateful.

In the last months of Paula’s life, her son Devante, along with the help of Emily, lovingly cared for her in their home. Her family also assisted with her care, and her lifelong friend Diane.

Although she described herself as an ALS warrior (fighting everyday) now she is our ALS Angel and we are left with the love she shared and many wonderful memories. We will miss her beautiful smile and tender heart more than anything!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Paula include:

her son,
Devante (Emily) Kidd, East Dubuque, Illinois;

her grandchildren,
Evan and Elijah, East Dubuque, Illinois;

her 5 siblings,
Marie (Georg) Moeller, East Dubuque, Illinois,
Cheryl (Larry) Ladwig, Fall River, Wisconsin,
Alan (Margie) Freund, Dubuque, Iowa,
Eric (Angie) Freund, East Dubuque, Illinois,
and Andrea (Bobby) Daniels, Waterloo, Iowa;

her great-aunt,
Joan Neuses, Dubuque, Iowa;

her very special friend,
Diane Ahmann-Timot;

along with countless extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Paula was preceded in death by her parents.

In accordance with Paula’s giving spirit, her body was donated to help ALS research. Memorial donations may be made in her name to IamALS.org or ProjectALS.org

Leonard E. Witt

Leonard Earl Witt, 95 of Peosta, Iowa passed away peacefully at 5:28 p.m. on Sunday, January 10, 2021 at Dell Seton Hospital in Austin, Texas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2021 at St. Joseph Key West Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of service. Burial will follow at Rockdale United Methodist Cemetery with military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Please remember to wear your mask, if you are unable to attend a live stream of the funeral service will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Leonard was born November 6, 1925, in LeMars, Iowa, the son of Julius Reinhold Witt and Anna Marie (Moeller) Witt. He grew up in LeMars and received his education from LeMars High School, graduating in 1943. Leonard served in the United States Navy for 2 years and became a storekeeper 2nd class.

After his service with the Navy, he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Westmar College in LeMars. During this time Leonard married Marilou Harding on August 28, 1955 and they started their family. He continued to teach Industrial Education for 5 years in the public school system. Along with teaching, he created and organized the Vocational Home Building Program for the state of Iowa. The Home Building Program is credited with training countless high school seniors across the state of Iowa in the skills of residential home building. Leonard and Marilou then moved to Dubuque, built a beautiful home together and raised their four children. He continued managing the Home Building Program and teaching Industrial Education at Dubuque Senior High School for the next 30 years. During that time, he obtained his Master’s Degree in Education at the University of Platteville, Wisconsin.

Upon the passing of Marilou, Leonard later married Elaine Fitzpatrick on March 21, 1981 and they started their lives together with their blended families in Peosta, Iowa. Regrettably, Leonard was widowed a second time as Elaine passed away December 23, 2020.

Leonard enjoyed many pursuits in his long life. He loved good food, gardening, raising and showing Red Carneau and fancy Roller Pigeons and woodworking. Leonard volunteered his time and talent at multiple organizations including the Elks Lodge, Key West Catholic Church and the Dubuque Arboretum. He loved to square dance, travel and watch wildlife on the farm. We will miss his zest for life and his loving spirit.

Leonard was a member of Epsilon Pi Tau and the Kappa Delta Pi Fraternities and was also a member of the Fraternal Order of Elks for 29 years. He was also a longtime member of the Key West Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa.

Surviving: Son Carey Witt and his wife Dori of Austin, Tx, and their children; Son Jamie and his wife Trisha of Nashville, TN and their children; Daughter Holly Allen and her husband Chris of Atlantic Highlands, NJ, and their children; Stepson Jim Fitzpatrick and his wife Gail of LeSeur, MN and their children; Stepdaughter Janice Aiels of Cedar Rapids, Iowa and her children; Stepson Douglas Fitzpatrick and his wife Cindy of Peosta, Iowa and their children; Stepdaughter Luann Langel and her husband Rodney of Urbandale, Iowa and their children; and stepdaughter Kathy West and her husband Jeffery of Dubuque, Iowa and their children. Leonard also has 25 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Gone before him is his oldest son Dana Witt as well as Leonard’s siblings, Donald Witt, Mildred Linquist and Wally Witt, wives – Marilou and Elaine.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque who cared unceasingly for his bride.

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

David R. Steckel

David R. Steckel, 76 of Sherrill passed away Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Thursday, January 14, 2021 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with funeral services beginning at 6:00 p.m. with Fr. Noah Diehm officiating. Military Honors will follow by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

David was born on December 6, 1944 in Dubuque the son of Vincent and Irene (Plein) Steckel. He Graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1963 and joined the United States Marine Corps in 1964, serving during the Vietnam War until 1967. On August 23, 1969 he married Ann Haxmeier at Saint Joseph Key West Catholic Church and together they shared 51 years together. He worked for Dubuque John Deere Tractor Works from 1970 until his retirement in 2000 and was a member of the UAW Local #94.

Dave loved the outdoors, especially camping, hunting and fishing on the Mississippi. On any given Saturday, you could catch Hurricane Dave making “one more pass” in Hurricane Chute.

He is survived by his wife Ann; two children, Jeffrey (Tina) Steckel, and Sara (Rob) Dimmer; four grandchildren Justin (Nicole) Steckel, Tristin Steckel, Kayci Dimmer, Erin Dimmer and a soon to arrive great grandson, all of Dubuque; two sisters Donna (Richard) Cox of Peoria, his twin sister Dianne (Steve) Pins and a brother Jack Steckel both of Dubuque: along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers, Vincent “Bud”, Donald, Richard and Bruce.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Luther Manor and to Saint Croix Hospice along with the volunteer’s of the Sherrill Fire and EMS for all their care and kindness they showed for Dave and his family.

Holly M. (Griffin) Amunson

Holly M. (Griffin) Amunson, age 46, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:50 p.m., on Sunday, January 10, 2021, at her home with her loving family at her side, after a short battle with cancer. To celebrate Holly’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Family and friends may also visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 16, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, before going to Mt. Olivet Cemetery for committal services. Due to COVID-19 concerns, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. The family also appreciates you honoring their privacy by refraining from taking photos or videos of the celebration of her life.

Holly was born on April 29, 1974, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Tim and Rita (Connolly) Griffin.

Holly grew up in Dickeyville, Wisconsin and graduated from Cuba City High School, Class of 1992. She would eventually move to Dubuque and go to work as a merchandising manager with TJ Maxx. Holly truly loved her job and valued all of the friendships she made while working there. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Brent Amunson, on August 27, 2016, at the Farley Memorial Hall. Holly was very generous with her time and talents, volunteering and participating in several charitable events throughout the years. In her free time, she enjoyed watching her beloved Dallas Cowboys play football, rooting on her favorite NASCAR drivers and listening to country music. Holly was a wonderful daughter, wife, mom and friend. She had an energetic spirit and definitely lit up the room every time she walked into it. Holly will be deeply missed and will live on in our hearts forever.

Those left to cherish Holly’s memory include

her husband,
Brent Amunson, Dubuque, IA;

her son,
Brady Amunson, Dubuque, IA;

her mother,
Rita Griffin, Dubuque, IA;

her father,
Tim Griffin, Epworth, IA;

her step-mother,
Kathy Griffin, Epworth, IA;

her step-sister, Sara and her step-brother, Damian, both of Dubuque, IA;

her grandmother,
Betty Griffin, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Gage (Megan) Griffin, Platteville, WI;

a special niece,
Carolyn Rutherford, Dubuque, IA;

a special aunt,
Caroline Griffin, Philadelphia, TN;

her in-laws,
Keith and Jo Amunson, Dyersville, IA;

her sister-in-law,
Kristi Amunson, Massachusetts;

a very special friend who was like a 2nd mom to Holly,
Janann Kieler;

and many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Holly’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of the MercyOne Cancer Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their support and compassionate care of Holly and her entire family.

The family will thankfully receive your support through floral arrangements (especially in her favorite color, PINK), phone calls, greeting cards and memorials in Holly’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Holly Amunson Family.

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

Paul F. Behr

Paul F. “Yogi” Behr, age 75, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:20 a.m., on Monday, January 11, 2021, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital. To celebrate Paul’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 14, 2021, and from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Due to COVID-19 concerns the number of people inside the building will be limited, all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. To honor Paul’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, January 15, 2021, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League and the Striking of the Four Five’s will be accorded by the Dubuque Fire Department.

Paul was born on December 19, 1945, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Cyril and Marie (Reavell) Behr.

Paul was a life long resident of Dubuque who attended Wahlert High School and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1964. After school, he honorably served his country with the U.S. Marine Corps during Viet Nam. When he returned home, Paul went to work for Flexsteel Industries for 1 ½ years before joining the Dubuque Fire Department in 1969. Being a firefighter was his true passion and he would devote 31 years to the department until his retirement in 2001. Paul married the love of his life, Karen Wimer, on September 13, 1969, at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. They were truly blessed with a son, a daughter and 51 wonderful years of marriage. Paul enjoyed staying active as was evidenced by his 60 years of membership with the YMCA. He developed an affinity for lifting weights in grade school and that love continued throughout his life. Everyone who knew him knew that Paul was a staunch Democrat and an avid Chicago Bear and New York Yankees fan. He reserved every Wednesday night for what he deemed “Chicago Night”, watching Chicago Med, Chicago P.D. and Chicago Fire, keeping his Saturdays open for watching westerns. Paul was a simple man who often proudly stated that he was “lucky to have a great life, marriage and children”. His family was his pride and joy and he always made sure that each and everyone of them knew how important they were to him. We are deeply saddened at the sudden and unexpected loss of such a wonderful husband, dad, grandpa, father-in-law and brother in our daily lives. The world was no doubt a better place because Paul was in it, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include

his wife,
Karen Behr, Dubuque, IA;

his 2 children,
Randy (Courtney) Behr, Africa and Texas
and Tina (Cary) Daubenberger, Dubuque, IA;

his 5 grandchildren,
Ashley Hartig, Cody Hartig, Connor Hartig, Lucas Daubenberger and Jena (Adam) Best;

his sister,
Ann (Nick) Kean, Dubuque, IA;

a niece,
Lindsay (Pat) Seamer, Bettendorf, IA;

a nephew,
Steve (Lauren) Kean, Madison, WI;

4 great-nieces;

his mother-in-law,
Anna Mae Wimer, Dubuque, IA;

and his in-laws,
Darwin Wimer, Henderson, NV,
Joyce (Gary) Lucas, Dubuque, IA,
Darryl Wimer, Dubuque, IA
and Linda (Rodney Clark) Reisdorf, Davenport, IA.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his father-in-law, James Wimer; and 2 sisters-in-law, Sharon Wimer and Marilyn Wimer.

Paul’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of the Finley ICU for their kindness, compassion and the outstanding care they provided to Paul and their support of his family. We also want to thank our family at Behr’s for all of their support throughout the years.

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

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

Phyllis J. Current

Phyllis J. Current, 89, of Clinton, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa and Preston, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 10, 2021 at Park Vista in Camanche, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Monday, January 18, 2021 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. prior to the service on Monday at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.

It will be required to utilize face masks and to observe social distancing guidelines during the visitation and services.

Phyllis Jean Miller was born on December 9, 1931 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Benjamin and Lola (Cook) Miller.  She was a 1949 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  She married James Carroll Current on June 27, 1953 in Maquoketa, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on December 8, 2004.

Phyllis had worked several jobs throughout the years most notably at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, Preston City Clerk, and at Maquoketa State Bank.  In retirement, she and her husband Carroll had worked as Park Attendants at Spruce Creek Park for the Jackson County Conservation Commission.  Lastly, she worked at Hy-Vee in Clinton for 20 years officially retiring in August of 2018.

Phyllis was a former member of the Preston United Methodist Church and had previously served on the Jackson County Hospital Board of Trustees, Paul Sharer Foundation, and was actively involved in fundraising for the American Heart Association, and the Clinton County Relay for Life.  She also supported and held a volunteer position with the Citizens Police Academy in Clinton.

Phyllis enjoyed her furbaby Jacie and her many grandpets, going to craft shows, estate sales, collecting elephants, and especially family time.  She also enjoyed shopping and never missing a good deal!

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Carolyn (Michael) Moore of DeWitt, IA, Jay (Gabriella) Current of Lewisville, TX, and Pamela (Robert) Harrington of Clinton, IA; 9 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren with one on the way, and 1 great-great-grandchild.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a brother.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Phyllis Jean Current memorial fund has been established.

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

Michael J. Walter

Michael J. “Uncle Mike” Walter, age 76, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on January 11, 2021, at ManorCare in Dubuque.  To honor Mike’s life, a private family service will be held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on May 20, 1944, in Dubuque, a son to George and Ellen (Rettenmeier) Walter.  He was a proud graduate of the East Dubuque High School, Class of ’62.  Mike joined the U.S. Army in 1964, and went on to honorably serve his country at the Headquarters, U.S. Army Europe, in Heidelberg, Germany.  He worked in the office of the Secretary of the General Staff and had reached the rank of Specialist E5 before being discharged.  Mike returned stateside to California, where he would spend the next 40 years of his life making his way in the world.  He worked with the Southern Pacific Railroad until his retirement in 1997.  Thankfully, Mike found his way back home to family and friends in 2007, and has been a positive force in the lives of all who knew and loved him.  We will miss our dear Mike in the days ahead, but we are forever grateful for the time, memories, and love we were able to share while we could.  Thank you, Mike, for simply being you and may the peace of the Lord’s gracious hands hold you safely and securely until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his siblings,
Ruth (Robert) Harle,
and Larry (Donna) Walter, both of Dubuque, Iowa;

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

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John Walter; and a sister, Mary Ellen Clark.

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

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

Br. Charles Joseph Leute, O.P.

It is with a sense of loss combined with great pride that the Dominican Friars of the Central Province of St. Albert the Great announce the death of our brother, Fr. Chuck Leute, OP, who died on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2021. We joyfully commend our brother to the Lord, trusting that he is at complete peace. A faithful servant of God, who ministered throughout his life to his Native American community, Fr. Chuck preached, not only through his words, but by his witness of service, selflessness, and humility. May his soul and all the souls of the faithful departed rest in peace. Amen.

Charles Joseph Leute was born in Dubuque, Iowa on February 21, 1942, the son of Charles Edward and Agatha Lucy Frommelt Leute. He was one of six children. Chuck, as he was known by all his Dominican brothers, was a descendent through his father of the Sauk and Fox Native American Indians who lived in the Mississippi River area around eastern Iowa. Though raised in urban America, his Native American roots led him to “missionary work” among the poor rural Indian people on reservations in South and North Dakota.

His early education was at Holy Ghost School (1948-1958), Loras Academy (1956-1959), Wahlert High School (1959-1960) and Loras College (1960-1962) all these in Dubuque, Iowa. In 1962, Chuck was received into the Dominican Order (August 30) at the Province novitiate in Winona, Minnesota. He made first profession on August 31, 1963. He completed his initial formation at Aquinas Institute of Theology in Dubuque, Iowa and was ordained to the priesthood on May 24, 1969 in the chapel of St. Rose Priory in Dubuque.

Father Chuck devoted most of his ministerial life to the Native American people on the Northern plains of the United States. In 1968, he worked briefly as a deacon on the Crow Creek Reservation in central South Dakota. But beginning in 1970, he served the Oglala Lakota Indians at Our Lady of Lourdes Mission in Porcupine and then at Sacred Heart Church in Pine Ridge both on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Both Churches are about seven miles from Wounded Knee (site of the famous Wounded Knee Massacre on December 29, 1890) in the southwestern corner of South Dakota. Of the 3,142 counties in the United States, these are among the poorest. In 1986 Father Chuck became associate pastor at Holy Rosary Church in Minneapolis, but in 1987 he then moved to the northeastern edge of North Dakota to become the pastor of Our Lady of Seven Dolors Church, Fort Totten, on the Spirit Lake Reservation and to minister to the Pabaksa, Sisseton and Wahpeton bands of the Devils Lake Sioux tribe. He was assigned there until his death in 2020.

Late in 2020, Father Chuck sought medical treatment for a stomach disorder at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, south of Minneapolis and was diagnosed with advanced stomach cancer. As his condition worsened, he was moved to Our Lady of Peace Hospice Center in St. Paul where he died peacefully on January 1, 2021, the Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God.  How fitting, given Fr. Chuck’s profound devotion to Our Lady. Father Leute’s funeral (date to be determined) will be at St. Albert the Great Parish and he will be buried in the Dominican plot at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Minneapolis.

Father Leute was a member of the National Association of Native Religious, religious men and women of native American ancestry. Chuck loved the people he served all his life, and he loved the land where he lived. He enjoyed singing, hiking, gardening and ranching: actually, most anything that had to do with being outdoors.

MaryJo A. Ernst

MaryJo Ann Ernst, 62 of Dubuque, moved on from the world suddenly on Sunday, January 10th, 2021, at her home.

She was born Friday, March 14th, 1958 to her loving parents Rita (Brehm) and M. Anthony Ernst. She grew up alongside her hardworking brothers and charismatic sister as the oldest of seven children.

Mary graduated from Clarke College in 1986, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Communication. She built a large community of friends and family throughout her years in radio and her career at Medline Industries.

Her larger-than-life personality was a gravitational pull for anyone that came into contact with her. Mary loved being surrounded by family, and her favorite thing to do was share love and laughter with those she cared for.

She is survived by her younger brothers Tony, Nick, and Francis, her mother Rita, and many nieces and nephews that she held so dearly.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Ben and Ted, her sister Elle, niece Lizzy, and her father M. Anthony.

A private family funeral mass will be held Friday, January 15th, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. A live stream of the funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.  A celebration of MaryJo’s life will be scheduled at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the MaryJo Ann Ernst Memorial Fund will be established.

James L. Kurtz

James “Jim” L. Kurtz, 80, of Dubuque, died Sunday, January 10, 2021, at the Ennoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque from complications of COVID-19, one day before his 81st birthday.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 from 2:00 PM until the time of funeral service at 4:00 PM at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Father Steven Garner as the officiant. Military honors will be rendered by the Iowa Army National Guard – Honor Guard. 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. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Jim’s family. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery on Thursday, January 14, 2021 at 2:00 PM.

Jim was born January 11, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Adolf and Malita (Lucas) Kurtz. He married Arlene Ahern and from this union a son, Kevin, and daughter, Lisa were born. They divorced and he married Karen Rubert and from this union his second son, Tom, was born. They later divorced.

Jim was a U.S. Army Veteran.

He was employed in the assembly area at Eska Company for 25 years and later worked at Luther Manor in maintenance.

Jim enjoyed fishing, his 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass, spending time with his family and playing slots at the casino.

Survivors include two sons, Kevin (Sherry) Kurtz of East Dubuque, IL and Tom Kurtz of Wisconsin Dells, WI; grandson, Cory (significant other, Nylah) Kurtz; granddaughter, Christa Kurtz; grandson, Matthew Kurtz; niece, Joanne Hagensten; nephew, Dave Hagensten and special friend and neighbor, Joyce Donath & family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Lisa and a sister, Dianne Hagensten.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

David J. Murphy

David John Murphy, 72, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 10, 2021 at home.

Private family services will be Thursday, January 14, 2021 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with a Public Graveside Service at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday at the East Dubuque Cemetery, with Pastor Terry Bemis officiating. Military honors will be accorded at the grave by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.  Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, facemasks are required along with social distancing, and no more than (10) people are allowed in the funeral home at one time.  Please respect the family’s concerns.

Dave was born on October 4, 1948 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Walter and Ramona (Williams) Murphy.  He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1966. Dave was a proud veteran of the U. S. Army serving during the Vietnam War.

Dave was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works, retiring in 2002. He was a member of U.A.W. Local # 94. Dave was united in marriage to Sandra K. Levins on September 5, 1969 in Galena, IL. She preceded him in death on July 29, 2002.

Dave enjoyed stock car racing, was an avid Chicago Bears and Chicago White Sox fan. He loved socializing and being with friends at R’s Place.

Surviving are two children, Tammy L. (A. J.) Dutler and Tim W. (Elissa) Murphy both of East Dubuque; five grandchildren, Brendan, Jordan, Haydan, Katelyn and Natalie; his mother-in-law, Zona Levins of Dubuque; in-laws, Diane Lancaster of Marsailles, IL, Brett (Tammy) Levins of Lawrenceville, GA, and Randy Levins of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter & Ramona; his siblings, Elaine Ousley and Roland “Boots” Murphy; his father-in-law, Delbert Levins, and in-laws, Mike and Debbie Levins.

A David J. Murphy memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank the East Dubuque Police Dept., East Dubuque Area Ambulance Personnel and the Jo Daviess County Sheriff’s Office for their quick response and compassion.

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