Obituaries Archive

Sgt. Lee Harlow Andre

Sgt. Lee Harlow Andre (Ret.), 77, of Dubuque, died Friday, November 27, 2020. Graveside military rites will be accorded noon Friday at Andre Cemetery, Lisbon, Iowa.

Lee was born July 19, 1943, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Laval and Dorothy (Harlow) Andre.

After graduating from, Lincoln High, Des Moines in 1961, Lee served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, Naval Seabees, and Army National Guard. He was also a salesman in the looseleaf binder industry. He was active in the Dubuque Republican Party and Dubuque County Right to Life.

More recently, Lee owned Olde Massey Station Campground, where he was a permanent fixture.

He is survived by a son, Lance (Traci) Andre of Dubuque; two daughters, Elizabeth and Crystal; a granddaughter, Josie, two step-granddaughters Nicole and Amanda, and a sister, Shirley Andre of Waukee.

He was preceded in death by two children, Eric and April; and a sister, Marie “Suzie.”

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

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Veterans Freedom Center, Dubuque.

Leo R. Westphal

Leo R. Westphal, 91, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday morning, November 26, 2020, at Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Monticello, Iowa.

A private family memorial service celebrating Leo’s life will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. There is no visitation. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

Leo Ronald Westphal was born on August 25, 1929 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Gustav Leo and Nora (Holtz) Westphal. Prior to his birth, his father passed away, and he was raised by his mother Nora and step-father Raymond Westphal. He grew up outside of Delmar, attended Delmar schools, and served his country in the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge. On October 10, 1953 he married Lois Beach in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union three children were born, Randy, Phil and Todd.

Leo farmed in the Delmar area for over 50 years and also did carpentry work.

He was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. He enjoyed family gatherings and attending his children and grandchildren’s events. Additionally, he liked visiting with friends, Euchre couples card club, coon hunting, and dancing with Lois.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Lois Westphal of Maquoketa, IA; children, Randy (Deb) Westphal of Clinton, IA, Phil (Robin) Westphal of Maquoketa, IA, and Todd (Jennifer) Westphal of Maquoketa, IA; 7 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Marcella Burmahl of Maquoketa, IA, and Janet Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA; a brother, Charles (Shirley) Westphal of Maquoketa, IA; and several very special nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister Mardella Anderson.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Leo R. Westphal Family.

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 support or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Rev. Lloyd Paul Ouderkirk

Rev. Lloyd Paul Ouderkirk, age 87, of Dubuque, passed away at 12:48 a.m., on Sunday, November 29, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center. To celebrate Fr. Paul’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, December 3, 2020, at St. John the Baptist Church, 241 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa. 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 Fr. Paul’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday at St. John the Baptist Church. Service will also be livestreamed on St. Elizabeth Pastorate’s Facebook page. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Centralia, Iowa. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is assisting the family.

Fr. Paul was born on April 19, 1933, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Francis Lloyd and Dolores (Hilkin) Ouderkirk.

Fr. Paul attended the one room schoolhouse in Graf, Iowa and graduated from St. John’s High School in Peosta. He then went on to Loras College, working as a Gandy dancer with Chicago Great Western Railroad to pay his tuition, and graduated from St. Bernard Seminary in 1958. He celebrated his 60th year of priesthood in 2019. Fr. Paul served with several churches in Eastern Iowa throughout the years including, Independence, Farley and Guttenberg. He was also very involved in the Hispanic ministry, serving in Bolivia for 3 years, then in Texas, Marshalltown, Dubuque and Postville. Fr. Paul was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Jesus Caritas Prayer Group, Hispanic Ministries, the Catholic Order of Foresters, and Worldwide Marriage Encounter. He was interested in his family history and was very active with the Ouderkirk Family Genealogy Association. He made a detailed calendar every year for the family containing birthdays and anniversaries. When Fr. Paul took some time for himself, he enjoyed watercolor painting, playing golf, playing board and card games and collecting coins and stamps. He had a knack for communicating with children and they never failed to bring a smile to his face and provide him with a funny story to share with family and friends. No doubt, the world has lost a good and faithful servant today. May he rest in peace and enjoy the rewards of his labor.

Those left to cherish Fr. Paul’s memory include

his siblings,
Phyllis Naumann, Dubuque, IA,
Francis “Fran” (Arleen) Ouderkirk, Sherrill, IA,
Pat (John) Oberman, Dubuque, IA
and Dennis (Lisa) Ouderkirk, Fargo, ND;

his uncle,
Ken Hinkel, Dubuque, IA;

and numerous nieces and nephews.

Fr. Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Jeanette (James) Schmitt; a brother-in-law, Gerry Naumann; 3 aunts, Jean (Ervin) Hufnagel, Helen (Frank) Hinkel and Mary Hinkel; and 2 uncles, Melvin Ouderkirk and Earl (Ruth) Hilkin.

Fr. Paul’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the nurses and staff at Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kindness and attentive care of Paul these past months.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Rev. Lloyd Paul Ouderkirk Family.

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

John E. Andreesen

John Edson Andreesen, 88, passed away Saturday, November 28, 2020, at the Clarissa Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf, Iowa, after a period of declining health.

A private and immediate-family only funeral and graveside committal service will be held Thursday, December 3, 2020, at Cedar Memorial Cemetery in Cedar Rapids at 10:00 a.m., Central time. Rev. Wade Reddy of Wayne Zion Lutheran Church of rural Monticello will officiate. Virtual attendance is encouraged at Kramer Funeral Home Facebook Live.

John was born March 24, 1932, in Anamosa, Iowa, the son of John and Bessie Fern Andreesen. As a child, John lived in rural Anamosa, Iowa, where his family farmed. John graduated as valedictorian of Anamosa High School in 1949.

After high school, John began farming with his dad and brother Bob until he was drafted into the Army. He served his country for two years driving trucks in the Korean War.  John was proud of his military service and actively supported the American Legion and served as legion commander in Anamosa in 1963.

After returning from the war, John met a wonderful young woman who was just finishing nursing school, Janet Greenawald.  They dated for about a year before they married on September 4, 1955, in Anamosa. They were married for almost 65 years and together they had five children.

John continued to farm just east of Anamosa and also worked for Pioneer Hi-Bred and Golden Harvest Seeds as a salesman and district manager. John was a successful farmer and seed corn salesman, earning multiple awards over the years. John retired from farming in 1994, and rented out the farm. After farming, he continued to work part-time in the construction industry and for Kramer Funeral Home. John was an active member of Wayne Zion Lutheran Church.

John and Janet lived on their farm until 2018 when they moved to the Fountains Senior Living Community in Bettendorf. John was an avid supporter of his children and always attended their school events at Anamosa High School whether it was sports, band, or academics. John would try to make every event even if it was out of town and meant driving long miles at the end of an already work-filled day. John loved his Iowa Hawkeyes and had season tickets for football and basketball games for over 50 years.

John is survived by his sons: John Andreesen of London, England, Jeff (Nancy) Andreesen of Bettendorf, Iowa, Joel (Connie) Andreesen of Bakersfield, California, Tom (Azza) Andreesen of Lake Forest, Illinois, and “fifth son” Dan (Mary Jane) Rushford of Cedar Rapids, Iowa;  grandchildren: Connor, Sophie, Jacob, Jilian, Ben, Luke, and Valentina; sister-in-law Carol (Jim) Hosch of Maquoketa, Iowa;  brother-in-law Tom (Mary Jane) Greenawald of Albuquerque, New Mexico; sister-in-law Sheri Greenawald of San Francisco, California; and brother-in-law David Greenawald of Apple Valley, Minnesota; and numerous nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his wife Janet, his parents, daughter Jayne, granddaughter Jayne, daughter-in-law Angela, brother Robert, and sister Betty.

The Andreesen family is forever grateful to the caretakers and staff at the Fountains Senior Living Community who took extra special care of John the last several months. Thank you also to the Clarissa Cook Hospice House for their care of John his last few days.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramerfuneral.com. Cards, letters, and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, IA, 52310-0791.

Lois Mae Sear Corken

Lois Mae Sear Corken, 96, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, November 26 at Stonehill Care Center with her daughter Kathy at her side.

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, services will be held at a later date.

Lois was born July 2, 1924 in Dubuque IA, the daughter of Joseph and Alberta (Tempus) Mussehl.  She graduated from the Visitation Academy in 1942.  Lois worked as a secretary at the Dubuque Packing Company until her marriage to Stanley Sear on October 12, 1950.  Stan passed away on August 25, 1972.  She married John Corken on April 12, 1975.  John passed away December 3, 2005.

For most of her life, Lois was a homemaker.  Literally.  When Stan and Lois built their home on John Deere Road, she singlehandedly painted walls, varnished woodwork, sewed curtains and upholstered furniture all while caring for 3 young children.  When Beth was born and later resided at the newly opened Area Residential Care, Lois and Stan organized a parents group to support each other and provide for their special children’s needs.  Lois doted on Beth and was actively involved in her care.  She was an expert seamstress and in her later years sewed hundreds of children’s quilts, donating to the Salvation Army and other charities.  Most any scrap of fabric given to her made its way into a quilt.  Lois and John loved to travel, visiting their children and grandchildren all around the country.  They camped at Lake Joy during the summer and spent winters in Texas.  Lois was a member of the YMCA, swimming several times a week until the age of 93.  She was a lover of dogs, music and euchre.  Lois had a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and attended daily Mass until she was no longer able to drive.  She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish.

Surviving are Lois’ blended family:  John S Corken of Lima OH,  Jane (Nick) Del Real of San Diego CA,  Mary Kay (Bob) Frick of Zwingle,  Patrick (Marsha) Corken of Dubuque,  Suanne (Wayne) Kamerik of Thousand Oaks CA,  Peggy Corken of Bettendorf,  Kathleen (Vince) Conner of Dubuque,  Timothy (Pam) Sear of Leawood KS,  Rosemary (Charlie) Weser of Lincolnton GA and Elizabeth Sear of Dubuque;  24 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Lois was preceeded in death by her husbands, daughter Susanne Lighthart,   sons-in-law Timothy Lassance and Scott Lighthart, daughter-in-law Jane Corken and brother (sister-in-law) Lawrence (Avis) Mussehl.

Egelhof Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be given to Sunrise Unit of Sunnycrest Manor, Albrecht Acres or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and care of Lois.

Georgia C. Knuth

Georgia Carol (Derby) Knuth, 85, of Dubuque passed away Friday, November 27, 2020 from COVID-19.  A funeral service will be held 11 a.m. Monday at St. Paul’s Lutheran church where a visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until time of service.  Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, masks must be worn and social distancing will be enforced.  The service will be livestreamed on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home Facebook Page.

Georgia was born June 29, 1935, daughter of George and Harriet (Weidenbacher) Kaufman.  She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and Finley School of Nursing.

She married Earl Derby in October of 1955.  He preceded her in death in December of 1987.  She then married Harlan Knuth in January of 1997.  He preceded her in death in April of 2018.

Before her retirement, Georgia was a nurse at Xavier and Mercy Hospitals.

She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church.  She was a volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum, Sunnycrest Manor, Camp Albrecht Acres and served on the board of Luther Manor.  She loved to play Euchre and Cribbage.

She is survived by her children, Steve (Cindy) Derby, Laura Derby and Kim Moorhead; step children, Harlan (Sue) Knuth, Mark (Carla) Knuth and Bruce (Kasie) Knuth; grandchildren, Katie (Nick) Simon, Bryan (Lindsey) Klavitter, Dan (Sarah) Klavitter, Lindsey (Tyler) Kaczmarek, Luke (Jessica) Johnson, and David (Hannah) Moorhead; nine step grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren

She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Tom and Don.

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

The family sends a special thanks to Dr Runde, Bri, Julie, Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque and Mercy One.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established

Bernice E. Beresford

Diane M. Kussmaul

Diane M. Kussmaul, 74, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away suddenly at 4:22 a.m. on Friday, November 27, 2020 at Mercy One-Dubuque.

Diane was born on July 5, 1946 at St. Louis, Missouri, the daughter of Milan and Arlene (Eschmann) Warren.

She was devoted to children and community her entire life. Her first school was a one room schoolhouse where she began her love for education.  When her one room schoolhouse was destroyed by a tornado, she had to transfer to the big school where she exceled.  In 1964 she graduated from Dupo High School and went on to Southern Illinois University to study to be an English and High School reading teacher.  In 1965, she married her high school sweetheart and the lover of her life, Don Kussmaul, who was also studying to be a teacher.  In 1983 they moved to East Dubuque where they raised their children, Laura (born 1977) and Seth (born 1979).

In 1986 she became the newly appointed director of the Early Childhoot “Family Ties” program that included all the public-school districts in Jo Daviess County and the Lena Winslow School District of Stephenson County. She retired from the Early Childhood Program as Director in 2013 but continued to work through 2016 when she retired again.

She has four grandchildren Maggie (9) and James (5) from Laura and Scott Murschel, of Cincinnati, OH, and Olivia (8) and Cameron (4) from Seth and Kelly Kussmaul of Geneva, IL.  She has continued as an Executive Consultant for the National Center for Education Research and Technology.  She was involved in education 69 of 74 years on this earth before she was taken away by the coronavirus.  She will live on through her children and grandchildren. She will be missed but eternally loved by her educational partner of 55 years. She is also survived by her sister, Donna (Ron) Juris of Bloomington, IL, sister-in-law, Carol (Cletus) Hermann of Springfield, IL and numerous nieces and nephews.

Due to Covid-19, services will be limited to family.  A celebration of life will be forthcoming.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Milan and Arlene; and a brother, Dale Warren.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family. Memorials may be directed to the East Dubuque Library Building Fund.

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

Elizabeth E. Sheehan

Elizabeth E. “Beth” Sheehan, age 69, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Friday, November 27, 2020 at Unity Point Health in Dubuque, Iowa. She was born on September 20, 1951, in Lancaster, the daughter of Robert and Agnes (Brawnes) Maahs.  Beth graduated from Walhert Catholic High School in Dubuque in 1969.  She was employed at various hotels and at a Bonsai garden.  Beth was united in marriage to Dennis M. “Denny” Sheehan on October 2, 1976.  After their marriage, she became a stay at home mom and babysat many neighborhood kiddos.  Due to health reasons in later years, Beth could no longer babysit, which she dearly missed.  Fridays then became “Grandma and Grandpa Days” for Kaydee.  She was also busy as a dog grandma, spoiling them rotten.  Beth was a member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church and enjoyed making baby blankets and playing cards with her sister and her friends.

Surviving are her children: Jodi Shemak and Eugene “Bear” Sheehan; 3 two-legged grandchildren: Lane, Bekka, and Kaydee Shemak; her sister and best friend, Nancy Muench; her cousin and second best sister, Irma Lucid; two four-legged grandchildren: Finn and Tucker; many extended family and friends.

While we cry for the loss of our mother, we are comforted knowing she has been reunited with her loving husband, Denny; two grand-dogs, Scrappy and X.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, December 3, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Tennyson with Father Richard Leffler officiating. Burial will be in the St. Andrew Cemetery, Tennyson. Family and friends may call on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at the church.  Martin Schwartz Funeral Home & Crematory in Potosi is assisting the family.

Online Condolences: martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Dorothy E. Hankemeier

Dorothy E. Hankemeier, 94, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at Wheatland Manor in Wheatland, Iowa.

A public visitation will be held from 12 P.M. to 1 P.M. on Tuesday, December 1, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A private funeral will be held and later uploaded to the funeral home website following the service. Burial will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa. Masks and social distancing will be required due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Dorothy Evelyn Paulsen was born on October 5, 1926 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Marvin Albert and Norma Anita (Galloway) Paulsen. She married Clarence Edwin Hankemeier on September 10, 1950 at the home of her parents in rural Lost Nation, Iowa. Four children were born to this union, Nancy, Lynn, Lori and Dale.

Following graduation from Elwood High School, Dorothy went to Cadet Nursing School and interned at the Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. Penicillin was the cure all during that period and was given to children hourly or several times a day. Upon graduating, Dorothy moved back to Iowa where she worked for Dr. Swift in Maquoketa as a Surgical Nurse. After her marriage in 1950, she became a housewife, raised a family, and farmed with her husband doing chores and tending to little animals. People would stop by often to purchase eggs from her. After the children were out of school, Dorothy returned to nursing and worked at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa until retiring.

In retirement, Dorothy enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening and flowers. She also liked listening to Country and Polka music, doing crossword puzzles, and crocheting.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Nancy (Steve) Baker of Montrose, CO, Lynn Hankemeier of Tipton, IA, Lori Wenger of Lost Nation, IA, and Dale (Becky) Hankemeier of Elkhart, IA; 8 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren; and brothers Darrell Paulsen of Lost Nation, IA, and Harlan Paulsen of FL.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Clarence on September 24, 2000, an infant brother Wayne, and a sister Arla Underwood.

Condolences and memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 c/o Dorothy Hankemeier Family.

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 support or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Lorna A. Schroeder

Lorna Ann Schroeder, 62 of Dubuque passed away Tuesday November 24, 2020 at home. Private graveside services will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in Charge of arrangements.

Lorna was born on January 24, 2958 in Dubuque the daughter of James and Barbara (Wenzel) Schroeder.

She is survived by her siblings Kris Schroeder, Shelle Schroeder, Jodi (Chris) Arcega, and Michael (Allison) Schroeder; her nieces and nephews Sarah Flogel, Nick Schroeder, Will Schroeder, Kharlla Arcega, and Ella Schroeder.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Steve.

Memorials may be sent to the family and will be directed to her favorite charities.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque especially Sara and Chris for all the wonderful care they gave to our sister and aunt.

Marie F. Heiar

Marie F. Heiar, 51, of Dubuque, passed on Thursday, November 26th at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics after fighting bravely against Covid-19 she was surrounded by her husband and two sons.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM, Sunday, November 29, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. Due to the city mask mandate, masks are required at the visitation and the funeral service. 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 Marie’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marie will be 10:00 AM Monday, November 30, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Mark Kwenin as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque. The mass 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.

Marie was born on September 17, 1969 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Duane “Dewey” & Ruth (Welp) Theisen. Marie married her high-school sweet heart Blair Heiar on October 6, 1989. This year they celebrated 31 years of marriage and raised a family of 3 during their years spent together. Marie was a lifelong resident of Dubuque and ran a in home day care with her mother for many years. She loved raising and teaching children but especially her grandchildren to them they always hold a special place in her heart. She was an avid reader, reading anything from Danielle Steel to Dean Koontz to Stephen King novels. Marie was a regular at the Dubuque Public Library and loved to read books to her grandchildren. Marie enjoyed late evenings on her back porch talking with her husband and long talks on the phone with her kids. Marie’s laugh was infectious and she was a gentle soul. Marie was a strong woman who took care of her family until the very end.

Those left to cherish Marie’s memory include her husband, Blair Heiar, Dubuque; her children, Josh (Brian) Lampman, Dubuque, Ben (April Clarke) Heiar, Dubuque,  Kalie (Adam Schissel) Frommelt, Port Richie, FL; her grandchildren Dylan, Dethyn, Benjamin and Bennett; her brothers and sister, Jim (Iva) Theisen, Bernard, Paul Theisen, Dubuque, Annette (Tim) Boelk, Farley, Tim Theisen, Deborah, John Theisen, Dubuque; her step mother Janet Theisen, Dubuque; step-siblings, Heather (Rich) Lau, MN, Chris (Lisa) Farber, East Dubuque, Joe (Katie) Farber, MN, Carolyn (Pippin) Pickering, Cedar Rapids, Sarah Farber, MN, and Katy (Sam) Sein of CO; and many, many nieces and nephews.

Marie was preceded in death by both her parents, her mother-in-law Patricia Heiar and her bother-in-law Brandon Heiar

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all of the healthcare workers, nurses and doctors who took care of her at University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics and Finley Unity Point Hospital in Iowa City and Dubuque, respectfully.

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

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

Leonard V. McCarthy

Leonard Vincent McCarthy, 75, Bernard, Iowa passed away Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center from complications due to COVID-19.

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, December 3, 2020 at Holy Family Church, New Melleray (Peosta, Iowa) with Fr. Rodney Allers officiating. Private Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Military Honors Accorded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528. The service will be livestreamed on the Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory’s Facebook page.

Leonard was born on July 29, 1945 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Wilfred and Rita (Larkin) McCarthy. He was a lifetime resident of Dubuque County, living on the family farm since 1948.  He attended West St. Joseph’s one room school at the east side of the farm.  He began his high school journey at Saint Columbkille’s and later graduated from Wahlert High School both of Dubuque, Iowa in 1963.  At Wahlert he participated in ROTC.  He enlisted and served in the U.S. Navy assigned to the USS Sierra based out of Norfolk, Virginia from August 1966 and was honorably discharged in August 1968 as a Boatsman 3^rd Class.  He continued to serve with the Navy Reserve achieving the rank of Petty Officer 2^nd Class.  He then returned to farm.    After the death of his parents in 1973, he continued to farm with his beloved brother Philip as the McCarthy Brothers.  He was a lifelong member of Holy Family Church, the American Legion Post #528, the Tri-State Vietnam Veteran’s, Maquoketa Valley Rifle and Revolver Club, and the Prairie Farmers 4-H. Leonard was proud of his Irish Heritage, very patriotic, loved rural America, was devoted to his beloved animals, loved cowboy poetry, RFD-TV, the Cowboy Channel, Mecum Auctions, rodeos, a good meal at Pearl’s, and was loyal to his family and friends. It was said he could strike up a conversation with anyone at any time.  He was very knowledgeable on so many, many topics.

He is survived by his siblings Anita (Eugene) Gudenkauf of Cascade, Philip (Colleen) McCarthy of Zwingle, Joann (Peter) Gansen of Dubuque, Elizabeth McCarthy, and Karen (Wayne) Streif of Bernard, an aunt Patricia Larkin of Cascade,  7 nieces, 3 nephews, and many great nieces and nephews. He was a proud Godfather to Dan Larkin, Bill Kane, Dennis Gudenkauf, Teresa Gansen and Katie Barnes. He is also survived by his friends who were so great in number no obituary could list them all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts and uncles Bernice (Elmer) Chapman, Daniel (Myrtle) McCarthy, Dorothy (Charles) Pancratz, Angela (Joseph) Kane, Charles (Kaye) McCarthy, Vincent (Lucille) Larkin,  Adeline (John) Urbain, John (Josephine) Larkin, Amy (Vincent) Healy, Joseph Larkin,  and a niece Lois Gudenkauf.

The family would like to thank the Veteran Affair’s doctors, nurses and staff who helped Leonard over the years, and to the staff at MercyOne, 3^rd floor and ICU unit for all the care they gave to Leonard during his last battle with COVID.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

John Veach

John “Jack” Veach, 73, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 at Jackson County Regional Health Center.  Graveside Services will be 1:00 pm, Wednesday, December 2, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273.

Jack was born June 26, 1947 in Dubuque, the son of Orville and Loretta (Schiffer) Veach.  He graduated from Maquoketa High School.  Jack married Joanne Michels on April 26, 1969 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Jack served his country in the US Army during Vietnam 1966-1968.  He was a farmer and worked at John Deere Works in Dubuque for 35 years before retiring.  Jack was a member of Bellevue American Legion Post #273, Bellevue  Horseman’s Club, and the Hawkeye Vintage Tractor Pull Association.

Jack was a happy and simple man. Who lived every day working hard and was never heard complaining.  He was well known for his big smile and bubbly laugh. Everyone was a friend, there were no strangers and he never hesitated to help a neighbor out; expecting nothing in return.

Jack loved children.  He was often found on the floor playing with them, giving them whisker rubs, and and telling them his infamous corny jokes, where most of the time he was laughing harder at his own jokes than the person listening.

Jack had a unique ability to make something useful out of “junk”. He was constantly thinking about building or making something for the farm. Whether it was spring loaded latches on gates, or taking a grinder mixer apart to make a bulk bin on wheels- Jack did it. Jack loved livestock.  Checking cows and mending fence was a pastime, not a chore. He loved horses and would often talk about “his” horse, Barney.  Jack was very particular in everything he did. Doing it “right” was much more important than getting it done.

He raised hogs for many years: Shoveling out crates, pushing manure down the alleyway and forking it in a spreader by hand was part of the enjoyment of taking care of the animals. When asked why he hosed down the alleyway after pushing manure out he would say “this way it wouldn’t smell as bad,” but I think it was more for the hogs, not him.

Jack was somewhat shy and preferred one-on-one conversations opposed to large group settings. If he was asked to go out for a beer, he’d rather stay home drinking a Pepsi with grandma while watching his livestock.

Survivors include his wife  of  51 years, Joanne; children, Jamie (Penny) Veach of Peosta, John (Kim) Veach of Dubuque, Jodi (Ryan) Kilburg of Bellevue, and Justin (Abby) Veach of Bellevue; a daughter in-law Casey Veach of DeWitt; 19 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; siblings-all brothers, Chuck (Rose), Dick (Joyce), Doug (Linda), Joe (Anne), Dave (Julie), Pat (Cindy), and Kenny (Bonnie) Veach; In-laws, Gail Michels, Don (Nancy) Knockel, Jim (Kate) Michels, Jeanette (Darel) Felderman, Barb (Terry) Jensen, and Jeff (Barb) Michels.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Orville and Loretta Veach; a son, Jason Veach; a brother, Ronnie Veach; father and mother in-law, Tom and Lorraine Michels; and a brother in-law, Greg Michels.

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

Condolences and Memorials may be sent to Hachmann-Mier Funeral 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, Iowa 52031 c/o John “Jack” Veach Family.

Janice K. Pfeiler

Janice K. “Jan” (Hartman) Pfeiler, age 79, of Dubuque, passed away at 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center, with her loving family by her side. To celebrate Jan’s life, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jan was born on August 9, 1941, in Manchester, Iowa, daughter of Harold and Letiticia (Duffy) Hartman.

Jan attended beauty school after graduating from high school in 1959, and worked as a cosmetologist for 2 years at Rachael’s Beauty Salon. She met and married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Pfeiler, on August 26, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church. Jan traveled to Kansas with Bob while he served with the U.S. Army, before they returned to make their home in Dubuque. They were blessed with almost 58 years together, and 5 wonderful children, before Bob sadly passed away on August 24, 2019. After they married, Jan became a full time wife, mother and homemaker, who also provided child care for others in her home for 17 years. All who knew her adored and loved her dearly for her generous heart and undying love and passion for her family and friends. She enjoyed spending her free time visiting with the residents at Stonehill for 23 years, always bringing them smiles and excellent conversation. There was never any doubt that Jan was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and grandchildren and embraced every moment spent with them. Her faith was also a very important aspect of her life, and Jan was proud to be a member of Sacred Heart Church for almost 60 years. In her down time, Jan could often be found reading, fishing or traveling with Bob racing their Greyhounds. Their family vacationed with their group of friends at Lake Hancock Resort in Rhinelander, WI, every year since 1973. We are deeply saddened at losing our mom, grandma, great-grandma and sister, but are extremely grateful for all of the years we have had together as a family. Jan will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her, and we will miss hearing her famous saying, “Bless your heart”, more than words can convey.

Those left to cherish Jan’s memory include

her children,
Randy (Patty Trowbridge) Pfeiler,
Cindie Zeromski,
Tina (Dan Pfeiffer)Pfeiler,
Dan (Jean) Pfeiler
and Kim (Jason) Meyer, all of Dubuque, IA;

her 8 grandchildren,
Robert and Jesse Zeromski, Nathan and Nicole Pfeiffer, Meggan and Amanda Pfeiler and Hanna and Ellie Meyer;

her great-granddaughter,
Oaklynn Schueller-Zeromski;

2 sisters,
Joann Delong, Phoenix, AZ
and Connie (Tom) Ross-Steger, Strawberry Point, IA;

and a brother-in-law,
Rich Mangler, Dubuque, IA.

Jan was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Bob Pfeiler; 2 sisters, June (Tom) Raymond and Sherry Mangler; a brother-in-law, Don Delong; and a nephew, Shane Ross.

Jan’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Brandon Powers, and all of the nurses and staff at Stonehill, for all of the outstanding care and friendship they have provided to Jan, and her family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among Jan’s favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Janice Pfeiler Family.