Obituaries Archive

Liam J. Ziegenfuss

Liam J. Ziegenfuss was born on July 30, 2018 at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, and departed peacefully on March 28, 2020, at home in the loving arms of his mother.

During his time here on earth Liam touched many lives and was loved deeply by family and friends. Liam was always content cuddling in the arms of his loved one’s and continually satisfied to be in any room where he could be comfortably surrounded by his family. He enjoyed having people near him, especially his siblings and cousins. Gifted with the most relaxed smile and a desire only to be loved, Liam would forever impact the hearts and minds of all who befriended him. A beautiful baby boy who touched so many lives during his short time among us. The pain we feel today will likely never heal, and only become tolerable in time, but we can surely find moments of peace until then knowing that our Liam is now playing in a new and perfect body while completely free of the earthly confines he carried so bravely with courage.We will miss and love our little Liam till the end of time, treasure every single memory we possess throughout, and pray that the joy he knows now is absolutely equal to the joy he has earned while carrying his crosses here.  God bless you Liam and God speed dearest baby boy!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Liam include his adoring mother, Kelly Ziegenfuss; his favorite brother, Evan, and his favorite sister, Nora, both at home; his grandparents, Lori and Rick Stumpf, Peosta, Iowa, and Dave Ziegenfuss, Dubuque, Iowa; his great-grandparents, Ken and Dolly (Margaret) Ziegenfuss; his aunt, Jennifer Boots, Peosta, Iowa; his cousins, Levi, Billy, Hailie, Kelsey, Morgan, Zoe and Kaleb Boots, and Kaitlyn Ziegenfuss; along with many extended family and friends who have generously shared much love and many prayers throughout his time with us. 

He is being greeted in Heaven by his maternal great-grandparents, Harvey and Marianne Frederick; and his great-aunt, Suzy (Frederick) Monahan.

Liam’s family would like to thank, his doctors in both Dubuque and at the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital, Universal Pediatrics, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their generous, gentle and professional care of our little Liam.  This is undeniably the most difficult challenge we have ever had to face in our lifetimes and to feel the love and support around us at all times, from every direction, means more than we could ever accurately describe.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts and may God bless you all for your kindnesses!

 The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly and compassionately serving Liam’s family.  Online condolences may be shared with Liam’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

 At a future time, when it is safe for everyone to be together, we will have a celebration of Liam’s life.  Until then, cards may be sent to 2130 Woodland Drive, Apt. 11, Dubuque, Iowa, 52002.

Judy K. (Sargent) Schmitt

Judy K. (Sargent) Schmitt, age 60, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:30 p.m., on Monday, March 30, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving family. Because of the unprecedented conditions in our country right now due to the COVID-19 virus, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com.

Judy was born on November 29, 1959, in Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Albert and Helen (Miles) Sargent.

Judy married the love of her life, Richard W. Schmitt, on April 15, 1978. They would have celebrated their 42nd anniversary this April. Judy was a kind, gentle, selfless and amazing wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was extremely devoted to her grandchildren and loved spending time with them. Judy’s most recent employer was Dubuque Janitorial Service, where she worked at The Red Cross and at the Delhi Street branch of DB&T. Judy also spent over 12 years with The Metrix Company. Judy was a people person and created many long lasting friendships throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Judy’s memory include

her loving husband,
Richard Schmitt Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her two sons,
Richard “Rick” Schmitt Jr.
and William “BJ” Schmitt, both of Dubuque, IA;

her three grandchildren,
Will, Cam and Aubree;

her siblings,
Tom McArdle,
Sharon Callaghan,
Doris Puccio
and Jim Sargent, all of Dubuque;

her in-laws,
Ann Hoag,
Ron (Sherry) Schmitt
and Barb (Brian) Digman;

and her 4 nephews and 8 nieces.

Judy was preceded in death by her parents; her in-laws, William & Mary Jane Schmitt; her 2 brothers-in-law, Mike Callaghan and Dennis Hoag; and a niece, Samantha Callaghan.

Judy’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and compassionate care of Judy and her entire family.

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

Linda J. Cook

Linda J. Cook, age 72 of Galena, Illinois, completed her earthly journey on March 27, 2020, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Linda’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Linda’s family.

Linda was born in 1947 in the city of Chicago.  She was the oldest of 4 girls born to the union of Lawrence and Antoinette.  She was the loving wife of Mike Cook for over 50 years.  They had 2 children, Steve and Joe Cook, who gave them 5 grandchildren; Michaela, Alexander, Glen, Sophia “Sam”, and Oliver.

In 1988, Mike and Lyn began a new adventure by starting the Brierwreath Manor Bed and Breakfast.  Their love of Galena, along with taking care of others allowed them to run it for over 25 years.  During that time, Lyn spent many hours collecting, arranging, and caring for the things she cherished.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Linda’s name to Hospice of Dubuque.

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

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

Shirley A. Merrihew

Shirley A. (Wedergren) Merrihew, age 88, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 1:56 p.m., on Monday, March 30, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. Because of the unprecedented conditions in our country right now due to the COVID-19 virus, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com. Burial will be in Oakland Memorial Cemetery, Oakland, Nebraska.

Shirley was born on July 29, 1931, in Oakland, Nebraska, the only child of Harold Arthur and Mae Ramona (Danielson) Wedergren.

Shirley grew up in Oakland and graduated from Oakland High School in 1948. She was married to Richard Wayne Merrihew on July 25, 1953, in Oakland, NE, by Pastor Jackson from the Evangelical Free Church. They were blessed with 66 wonderful years of marriage, 3 beautiful daughters and a son, Michael, who was sadly called home just before his 8th birthday. Shirley was proud to be a full time wife, mom, grandma, great-grandma and homemaker. She always enjoyed caring for her daughters and providing hospitality for guests from all over the world. She loved to travel and visited missionaries in Africa and Europe. In her free time Shirley had many hobbies including collecting music boxes, Beanie Babies, African artwork and making ceramic ware. She was an active church attendee at many churches in the Dubuque area. Shirley became a Christian at the age of 21, and believed that following God was the most important thing she could do in her life and transfer to her children and the generations to follow. We are deeply saddened at losing such a devoted and loving woman in our daily lives, but take some comfort in knowing that she is now resting peacefully for all Eternity in her Heavenly home awaiting our eventual arrival.

Those left to cherish Shirley’s memory include

her husband,
Richard Merrihew;

her daughters,
Zelda Mae (Mark) Anderson,
Anna Lee Murphy
and Sara Lynn (Zbig) Piekielny;

her grandchildren,
Michael Anderson, JinHee Anderson, Fallon Murphy, Heidi Murphy and Jadwiga (Greg) Hinzpeter;

and her great-grandchildren,
Isaac, Elijah and Adaya Birch and Ozieah Murphy.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; and a son, Michael Harold Merrihew.

Shirley’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill Care Center, 24 Hour Care and Hospice of Dubuque, as well as all of their family and friends, for their kindness and loving support these past months.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

Lorna M. Ellis

Lorna Mae Ellis, 85, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, March 30, 2020, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

She was born on December 23, 1934, in Martelle, the daughter of William and Ida (Ketelsen) Prull. She was raised in Martelle and was a 1952 graduate of Martelle High School. Lorna then attended Paris Academy of Beauty Culture in Cedar Rapids. She worked at the beauty salon at the Roosevelt Hotel in Cedar Rapids before her marriage.

On July 15, 1956, Lorna was united in marriage to Raymond Ellis in Anamosa. Three sons were born to this union. Lorna owned and operated her own beauty shop in Monticello until the family moved to Manchester in 1957. She then stayed home to raise her family.

Lorna had a large beautiful flower garden. She loved spending time during the summer working with her flowers. Lorna enjoyed baking cookies and pies and always had cookies ready for her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed eating out at the Culvers Restaurant. Lorna was a very neat and organized lady. She loved her family and spending time with them.

Survivors include her husband of 63 years, Raymond Ellis of Manchester; her three sons, Scott Ellis of Montezuma, Perry (Ruby) Ellis of Huntsville, Alabama, and Kevin (Alice) Ellis of Holman, Wisconsin; seven grandchildren; one brother, Robert Prull of Anamosa; and two sisters-in-law, Kathryn Prull and Sandy Prull.

Lorna was preceded in death by her parents; one granddaughter, Kristen Johnson; two sisters, Betty (Keith)McCarty and Mary Jo Nagel; one sister-in-law, Bonnie Prull; and two brothers, Ralph Prull and Larry Prull.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Ray Ellis, 832 East Fayette Street, Manchester, Iowa.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Because of the current Corona Virus 19 concerns, there will be a Private Family service and interment held at this time.

Leonard-Muller Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Donald C. Linden

Donald C. Linden, 93, of Dubuque, beloved father, grandfather and friend, returned to his Lord and Savior on March 29, 2020 at Luther Manor nursing home in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Our dear father deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time of the COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation and funeral is not possible. Please be with us in prayer. The video of Don’s private funeral mass will be available to view Thursday, April 2 by visiting Don’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com. Burial will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Dubuque. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Don was born January 20th, 1927, in Dubuque, the son of Earl and Elizabeth Straub Linden. Don and Dorothy Nauman were joined in the Sacrament of Marriage on April 15, 1952 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. After 33 years of marriage Dorothy was called to her eternal home March 22, 1985.

After graduation from Dubuque Senior High School, Don served two years in the United States Army Air Force. Upon completion of military service Don was employed at the Dubuque Packing Company as a ham boner until his retirement.

Don was a faithful member, and enjoyed attending daily Mass at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Don served as an offering counter for over forty years, and was always a good friend to the parish priests and others in religious orders. Don was truly a faithful follower of Jesus, the resurrection and the life. He was also a member of the Serra Club, Power of Prayer and was a Senior Citizens Volunteer.

Survivors include his daughter Diane (Mark) Knappe of Menomonee Falls, WI; three grandchildren; Justin P. (Alyson) Kline of Bartlett, IL, Rachel (Trevor) Scalercio of Raleigh, NC, and Kyle Knappe of Glendale Springs, CO; six grandchildren; two brothers; Earl (Darlene) Linden, Jr. of East Dubuque, IL, and Jack Linden of Dubuque; two sisters; Char (Paul) Simon and Janice (Fred) Wuertzer , both of Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Delbert, Thomas, and Robert Linden, and one sister, Delores Nauman.

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 Don’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com

To God be the Glory+

Virginia Alba Fessler

Virginia Alba Fessler, wife of Deacon Raymond F. Fessler (deceased), formerly of Dubuque, surrounded by her family, peacefully passed away in her Florida home on March 28, 2020. We had the pleasure of celebrating Gyne at her 100th birthday party in Clearwater Beach, Florida.

Our dear mom and grandma 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 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Virginia (Gyne) was the daughter of Sam and Josephine (Lucido) Alba. Gyne graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1938. She married the love of her life, Raymond F. Fessler, on October 8, 1944 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. They had 60 wonderful years of marriage together.

After World War II, they lived in Arlington, Virginia, where she was employed with the American Red Cross office. She and Ray returned to Dubuque in 1947 and raised their four daughters.

Gyne was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Gyne brought so much fun, joy, and love to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her. She treasured her family and cherished time with her amazing grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Being a big sports fan, she was thrilled when the Chicago Cubs won the World Series. Gyne also enjoyed traveling, music, stage plays and playing cards.

She was a member of the Holy Trinity Fraternity of the Secular Franciscans, the Holy Trinity Altar & Rosary Society, the Archdiocesan Conference of Catholic Women, and the Saint Jane de Chantel Society. Gyne enjoyed working as a secretary for many years in the office of Rock Island Millwork Company of Dubuque until her retirement.

Surviving are her four daughters: Mary Jo (John) Ploessl, Kathy (Richard) Caby, Vicki (Arthur) Jurema, Gini (Dr. R.H.) Pullen, ten grandchildren, eight great grandchildren, sister-in-law Joyce Alba, niece Jo Ann Callahan and many very special nieces and nephews. Gyne was the last survivor of her immediate family which included her sisters Marie Licari, Ann Leslein, Josephine Roling, Rosemarie Alba, and brothers Cruso and Sam Alba whom she deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, a Virginia A. Fessler memorial fund 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 Virginia’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kathryn J. (Lux) Davis

Kathryn Jane (Lux) Davis, 62, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, March 24, 2020, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Our Dear wife, mother, sister and aunt 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. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. At some future time when it is again safe for all of us to be together, we will have a Celebration of her Life.

Kathy was born April 20, 1957, in Pekin, Il. the daughter of William J. and Mary Coralynn (Rowe) Lux. On October 9, 1981 she married Charles W. Davis at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Dubuque.

1985 saw our family made complete with the arrival of twin sons Thomas B. and William J. Davis. Then in 1999 Kathy was honored to be the God Mother of Clare K. Davis. Our boys, nieces and nephews were the most precious and important people in Kathy’s life. She always wanted to be involved in whatever activity and event that was happening in their lives. She loved and cherished each and every step in their lives.

Kathy received a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism from Clarke College and Master’s Degree in Counseling from Loras College.

Kathy worked several years for Information and Referral in many capacities. She then worked 5 years as the Religious Education Coordinator at Resurrection Church.

After earning her Master’s Degree, Kathy proudly and actively spent 30 years as a Counselor at Northeast Iowa Community College. She dedicated herself to assist in any activity that enriched and encouraged students to reach their personal and educational goals. During that time, she met and worked with an amazing group of people that she was pleased to call friend!

Kathy also enjoyed and had a talent for arts and crafts. Over the years she did Stained Glass projects and painting. Many will remember her love of Scrapbooking and Card making. She had a wonderful group of friends in Dyersville that she enjoyed getting with several times a month for those activities. Many major events are chronicled with a scrapbook to help us remember. She had a joy for life and liked to meet people, learn about them and create a connection with them.

Kathy served on the Board for “The Substance Abuse Coalition of Dubuque” and on the Board for “Mental Health America of Dubuque County”. She volunteered at Area Residential Care, sold daffodils for the American Cancer Society and gave of her time and talents for innumerable activities and organizations that helped those in need.

Kathy is survived by her husband Chuck, sons Tom and Bill, sister Jacquelyn A. (Jackie) Lux of Dubuque, Brother and Sister in Laws, and many nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, father and mother in law (James C. and Joanne K. Davis), one sister Mary Jean Christy and niece Danielle K. Davis.

We want to thank the Doctors and Nurses at MercyOne Intensive Care Unit who cared for Kathy in her final days.

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

Della M. Koster

Della M. Koster, 95, of Rock Island, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2020 at her home.

Graveside services for Della were held 11 am Saturday, March 21, at Calvary Cemetery, Rock Island. Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, a Memorial Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rock Island at a later date. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

Della was born on July 4, 1924 in Dubuque, Iowa, a daughter of Roy and Martha (Frye) Edminster. She married Leo Koster on December 29, 1945 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on September 24, 1998. Mrs. Koster worked as a supervisor at Jaydon Inc., Rock Island for 24 years before her retirement. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rock Island and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Aerie No. 956, Rock Island. Della enjoyed sewing, traveling, reading and spending time with her family.

Survivors include her children, Donna “Mitzi” (Robert) Christenson, Rock Island, Donald (Candy) Koster, Rock Island, and Timothy (Joanne) Koster, Illinois City; four grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; and a brother, Rodney (Diane) Edminster, Dubuque.

Della was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leo; siblings, Leta Beadle and Robert Edminster.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or to the American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be left for the family at wheelanpressly.com

John S. Kintzinger

John S. Kintzinger, 71, of Iowa City, and formerly of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2020 in Iowa City.

Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

John was born April 15, 1948 in Dubuque, the son of David and Charlotte (Faber) Kintzinger. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1965, and went on to earn his B.S. from both Loras College (1970), and University of Iowa (1979). John continued his education earning his MS from University of Chicago in 1992, and his PhD in Mathematics from University of Iowa in 2009.

In his younger years, John worked as a bookkeeper for Faber Music, his uncle’s family business. He was a caregiver for his mother for many years, and also helped out at the University of Iowa in the Mathematics Department.

John was a very kind and patient man. John enjoyed bicycling, photography, reading, and dining out. He loved listening to Iowa Public Radio, and especially The Newman Singers. His Catholic faith was very important to him. Spending time with Kay was something John cherished.

John is survived by his siblings, Jean (Jim) Gantz of Dubuque; Judy Kintzinger of Madison, WI; Dr. Tom (Sue) Kintzinger of Hayward, WI; and Susan Kintzinger of Madison, WI; his nephew, Eric (Nicole) Gantz and their children, Matthew, Joshua, and Lauren Gantz; his niece, Abby (Eric) Schissler and their children Eden and Elijah Schissler; his niece Katie Kintzinger; and his significant other, Kay Habovsky of Iowa City.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

John’s family would like to thank cousin Mary and Steve Vanderah for the help and support they have extended to John over the years.

Gerald M. Franzen

Gerald “Jerry” M. Franzen, 87 of Maquoketa, IA passed away on March 27th at his home. Burial will take place in the Sacred Heart Cemetery. During this time, there will be no visitation or Mass due to limitations on gatherings. A Celebration of Life will be held later.

Jerry was born on Dec. 20th, 1932 in Zwingle, IA son of Math and Mary (Dwyer) Franzen. He married Lois Manders on Aug. 2nd, 1955 at Sacred Heart in Maquoketa. He was in the Korean War. He was a member of the VFW, the American Legion, and the Eagles Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, playing cards and pool, and farming. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, 3 sisters- JoAnn Reiter, Patsy Wagner, Rita Hughes, 6 brothers- Jim, Leonard, Butch, Marvin, Martin, Wayne, 8 children- Neal (Marji), Carol (John) Reed, Donna (Jim) Miller, Randy (Jill), Mary (Mark) Ambrosy, Sue (Lee) Cook, Paul (Kris), John (Lisa), 18 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters- Marie Wagner, Marcie Eganhouse, and Margaret, brother Vince, son Thomas, grandson Travis, and great-grandson Dylan Andersen.

The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Hospice of Jackson County and Dr. Gus Harb, Iowa Cancer Specialists, and the specialists and nurses at the Cancer Care Institute radiation therapy department.

A memorial fund has been established in Gerald’s memory.

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.

Timothy A. Ganahl

Timothy A. “Tim” Ganahl, age 64 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey suddenly on March 21, 2020, at the MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.  To honor Tim’s life, a Celebration of Life is being held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tim’s family.

Tim was born on December 31, 1955, the son of Betty Jean (Ganahl) Guenther.  He brought the new year in with a smile and the next 64 years would definitely be abundantly full for all who knew and loved him.  His early years included countless hours of hanging out with family and friends where he eventually earned the nickname “Flip” after executing the best backflips anyone at Sutton Pool had ever seen.  He attended Dubuque Senior High School, and was a mechanic at Dan Kruse Pontiac before becoming a semi driver  He was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who was doing home improvement projects, or helping wrench on their vehicles.  Tim spent many years providing for his family, but he also knew that there must be some balance in life in order to find true contentment.  He enjoyed riding this Harley and spending time with family and friends on the river, but catching a NASCAR race in person whenever possible was his favorite pastime and Tim was fortunate enough to be able to travel to many tracks over the years, with his trips up to Michigan being his favorite destination.  Tim was a friend to many, and in-turn, had many friends.  It was impossible to move around town without running into a few of them and watching the conversations begin.  His unique personality and sense of humor were never lost on those close to him and thankfully many wonderful stories and memories remain because of that fact.  “Long Nose” (his CB handle) has been heard more than once saying “That’s alright, they’ll never take me alive” after being warned of a speed trap in his path ahead.  We will cling to every joyful moment we can now as Tim’s sudden departure from our daily lives has surely left a void which only he could fill.  We are forever grateful for the time we had and will wait patiently for our broken hearts to heal.  Thank you, Tim, for showing us how to live life to the fullest and may peace be yours until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tim include,
his 4 children,
Jody Ganahl-Greve, Dubuque, Iowa,
Jillean (fiancé Marc Kuempel) Harmon, Guttenberg, Iowa,
Daniel (fiancé Erica Kennicker) Ganahl, Guttenberg, Iowa,
and Dylan Ganahl-Johl, Eugene, Oregon;

his 3 adored grandchildren,
Kara Greve, Joseph Greve and Ryleigh Harmon;

his sister,
Denise (Bob Kutz) DeReamer, Merrillville, Indiana;

his nieces and nephews,
Tiffany Merritt, Jennifer (Branden Rice) Essex,  Stephanie (Neri) Griffith, Alexis Pratt, Denny Pratt and RJ DeReamer;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Tim was preceded in death by his mother; his brother, Craig Ganahl; and his aunt, Mary Lou (Joe) Klos.

In lieu of flowers, a Timothy A. Ganahl memorial fund has been established.

Tim’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy for all of their professional and compassionate care during this difficult time.  Thank you for your kindness and bless you all for your sympathies.

Until Tim’s Celebration of Life, cards may be sent to 519 North 1^st Street, Guttenberg, Iowa, 52052, and online condolences may also be shared with Tim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Betty Lou Billmeyer

Betty Lou Billmeyer, 73, of Colesburg, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2020, at Mercy One Medical Center in Dyersville. She was born on December 24, 1946, in Dubuque, the daughter of Nicholas and Charlotte (Droese) Miller. Betty attended school in Dubuque.

On March 5, 1965, Betty was united in marriage to Alvin Billmeyer in Dubuque. The couple lived in Dubuque for a short while before moving to Colesburg. Betty worked as a foreman at Products Unlimited in Guttenberg for many years.

Betty enjoyed reading. She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors include her husband of 55 years, Alvin Billmeyer, Sr.; her five children, Lisa (Barry) Wernke of Guttenberg, Alvin Billmeyer, Jr. of Strawberry Point, Alan (Autumn) Billmeyer of Guttenberg, Aaron (Ali) Billmeyer of Greeley, and Adam Billmeyer of Garnavillo; 11 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother, Ronald Miller of Dubuque; three sisters, Marion Wiezorek,  Jean Rubie, and Helen Ward all of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; five brothers, John, James, Lavern, Edward, and Robert Miller; one sister, Jane Palm; and four infant siblings, Loretta Miller, William Miller, and twins, Carolyn and Marilyn Miller.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Memorials may be directed to Alvin Billmeyer, Sr., P.O. Box 15, Colesburg, Iowa, 52035.

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.

Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Edgewood is assisting the family.

Michael J. Finn

Michael J. “Mick” Finn, age 79 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on March 27, 2020 at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City, Iowa.  To honor Mick’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 Mick’s family.

Mick was born on April 23, 1940, one of 12 children to Loras and Mary Ellen (Holdren) Finn.  He honorably served his country with the U.S. Air Force and was a licensed electrician for many years before retiring.  We will miss Mick very much and are grateful for the memories he leaves behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mick include his immediate family and friends.

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

Edith A. Cook

Edith A. (Specht) Cook, age 83, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:05 p.m., on Friday, March 27, 2020, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.  Because of the unprecedented conditions in our country right now due to the COVID-19 virus, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. The family will thankfully receive your support through phone calls, greeting cards and online condolences left at www.behrfuneralhome.com.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Edith was born on February 8, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Frank and Lyda (Elder) Specht.

Edith was always a hard worker, she attended school at St. Columbkille’s Grade School and then attended night classes before going to work at the Iowa Egg Products Company, then Trenkel’s Sausage Company and lastly with Sutter’s Bakery.  Edith was united in marriage to Donald “Don” Cook, on December 3, 1955, in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 6 children and 61 wonderful years together, before Don was called home before Edith on October 29, 2017.  After she married, Edith became a full time wife, mother and homemaker, a role which brought her great joy.  In her spare time, Edith was well known for watching her beloved Chicago Cubs play ball on TV, even “quietly” telling them what they were doing wrong and how they could correct it!  Edith was quite talented, she enjoyed creating beautiful embroidery projects and her elephant collection was extensive.  She also enjoyed traveling the U.S., coast to coast, stopping to see all the sights along the way.  Beyond a doubt, Edith’s family brought her the greatest joy.  She loved spending time with Don and the kids, and when the grandkids starting coming along she was a regular at all of the their school and sporting events.  We are deeply saddened at losing such a wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister and friend in our daily lives, but take some comfort in knowing she is now resting peacefully with her beloved husband for Eternity.

Those left to cherish Edith’s memory include

her children,
Donald “Butch” Cook, Jr.,
Debra “Deb” Doll,
William “Bill” Cook,
Charles “Chuck” (Patty) Cook,
Robert “Bob” (Heidi) Cook, all of Dubuque, IA
and Carol (Troy) Hackbarth, Rockford, IL;

her 10 grandchildren,
Amy, Michelle, Josh, Eric, Clayton, Ryan, Chris, Sydney, Skyler and Addison;

her 4 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way;

her sisters-in-law,
Ellen Cook, Jacksonville, NC,
Carrie Cook, Rockford, IL
and Dolly Coonfare, Manchester, IA;

and her brother-in-law,
Dean March, Dubuque, IA.

Edith was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald Cook Sr.; and her 9 siblings.

Edith’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Edith, especially in her final days.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

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