Obituaries Archive

Kathleen E. Winter

Kathleen “Kay” Elizabeth Winter, 95, of Dubuque, passed away in her home on Saturday, March 14, 2020.

In celebration of her life, a Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Rev. Tom Heathershaw will officiate. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.

Kay was born December 6, 1924 in Potosi, WI, to Chris and Bertha (Menne) Craugh. She grew up in rural Grant County, and graduated from Tennyson High School in Tennyson, WI, and Bayless Business College in Dubuque. She married Carl Winter on May 23, 1953 at St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Tennyson and celebrated 67 years of marriage. Living in Dubuque, Kay raised their two sons, Dave and Steve. She loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her unconditional love and support made her the great matriarch of our family.

Kay’s cooking skills were legendary in the Winter household. Family, friend, or stranger, Kay won the hearts of anyone who sat down at the table to share a meal. Then once the dishes were clear, she was more than happy to whup anyone in a game of cards. As an avid bowler, Kay won numerous individual and team awards through the years until she retired at the age of 89.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband Carl; children Dave (Dorothy) Winter of Johnston, IA, and Steve Winter of Newcastle, WA; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law Pat Craugh of Sinsinawa, WI; and special family friend Lynne (Don Heming) Lippert of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Dan Craugh; and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Joe and Tina Vogt.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Susan G. Komen for breast cancer research.

Arrangements entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

 In keeping with Governor Reynolds executive order on March 17, 2020 prohibiting events of more than 10 people, visitation and Mass will be private for family at Church of the Resurrection.

Donald H. Gagne

Donald H. “Don” Gagne, age 90, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:30 p.m., on Saturday, March 14, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor Don’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, at Behr Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Don was born on May 16, 1929, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Clarence and Blanche (Fisch) Gagne.

Don was united in marriage to Gloria Ryan and they were blessed with 4 children together.  He was later united in marriage to Pamela Pearl Priebe on September 17, 1976, in Dubuque, and they have been blessed with 43 wonderful years together.  Don was employed with Nurre Glass and the Dubuque Packing Company for several years.  He founded the Tri-State Independent Blind Society in February of 1972, helping people who are visually impaired to lead more independent lives.  Don served on many boards within the city, but his true passion was his work with the Blind Society.  In his free time Don enjoyed listening to old time radio, playing cards, going to the casino and trips to Las Vegas with his family.  He also enjoyed talking with people over the CB radio, his handle was “Frenchy”, and was a radio back-up man for the Dubuque Police Auxiliary.  His family was beyond a doubt the most important aspect of Don’s life and he always made sure that everyone knew how important they were to him.  The world is definitely a better place because Don was here with us, making a difference in the daily lives of countless people throughout the years.  He will not be forgotten because he left a little part of himself in each of us.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his wife,
Pamela Gagne, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Cathy (Dan) Sauser, Hartford, WI,
Debbie Gagne, Dubuque, IA,
Michael (David Tejeda) Gagne, San Francisco, CA,
Mark (Tammy) Hittenmiller, Dubuque, IA,
Jenny Kelly, Dubuque, IA
and JoAnn “JoJo” Larson, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Amy (Keola) Kalua, Matt (fiancé Krista Sobieski) Sauser, Andrew (Maria) Sauser, AJ Gagne, Christopher Hittenmiller, Bradley Hittenmiller, Brandon Hittenmiller, Tanner Hittenmiller, Samantha Launspach, Matthew Launspach, Jesse (Briana) Larson, Chad (fiancé Ashley McCormick) Larson, Kristina Larson, Kylie Larson-Blodgett, Penny Kelly and Catlyn Kelly;

his great-grandchildren,
Dylen Brzezinski, Kailyr Sauser, Kaiden Beyer, Carter Gagne, Zander Larson, Ethan Hittenmiller, Cole Hittenmiller and Weston Hittenmiller;

and his sisters,
Rosemarie Aird, Chicago, IL
and Violet Haverland, Cuba City, WI.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Joseph Michael Gagne; his 3 brothers, Elmer, Delbert and Kenneth Clyde Gagne; his former wife, Gloria Gagne; and his brothers-in-law, Arthur Aird and Eugene Haverland.

Don’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Keri, Emmy and Jennifer, and all who have cared for Don these past months.

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

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

Verna M. Bergman

Verna Mae Bergman, 87, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, March 13, 2020, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, March 16, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John. F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Visitation will continue from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 17, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1276 White St., Dubuque, where services will be held at 10 a.m. Rev. Jay Ilten will officiate. Interment will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery.

Verna was born September 13, 1932 in Dubuque, the daughter of Otto and Hulda (Fanslow) Ulrich. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Verna married Orville Bergman on August 27, 1950 at St. John’s Lutheran Church. He preceded her in death on March 19, 2005.

Verna was employed in accounting at Sears Department Store for many years until her retirement. She was a life-long active member of St. John’s Lutheran Church, where she served as choir director and organist for many years. She was instrumental in founding the Open Closet.

Verna loved to play euchre with friends and belonged to many euchre clubs. She enjoyed baking, and was a very generous person with a feisty spirit.

Verna is survived by three children, Alan (Donna) Bergman of Cole Camp, MO, Ann Bergman of Dubuque, and Alysia (Tim) Hedrick of Dubuque; her grandchildren, Stephanie, Melissa, A.J., Christian, Nick, Ashleigh, Zack, Keeghan, Eric, Casey, Colton; five great grandchildren and one on the way; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Karl (Ruth) Ulrich; and two sisters, Eileen (Alfred Farnochi) Ulrich, and Helen (Donald Sr.) Thomas.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Luther Manor Grand Meadows for their care of Verna.

Memorials may be made to the family for later donation to her favorite charities.

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

Patrick W. Scherrman

Patrick W. Scherrman, 81 of Dyersville, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Friday, March 13, 2020, at home in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 1:30 pm, American Legion Post 137 will gather at 7 p.m.  Visitation will continue Wednesday from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday March 18, 2020, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Pat was born April 27, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of William and Dula (Willenborg) Scherrman.  He served in the United States Army Reserves “Red Arrow Division”.  Pat married Elizabeth “Betty Anne” Showalter on October 25, 1958, in Dyersville.

Pat worked alongside his father, brothers, and family at Scherrman’s Implement serving the Dyersville & Monticello farming community for many years.

Pat had a loving spirit and a great sense of humor.  He loved golfing and was an avid Green Bay Packer fan.  He served as a leader to his country, community, faith and family. Pat was a member of the American Legion, a board member of the Commercial Club Park, and a retired member of the Dyersville Fire Department.  He also served on the St. Francis Xavier School Board and was a proud member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Knights of Columbus.

His most important job was being a loving and positive role model to a large family network.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Betty Anne, children: Margaret “Meg” (Paul) Cook of Wheaton, IL, Elizabeth “Beth” (Brian) Berk of Lapeer, MI, Marypat (Tom) Stoddard of Ft. Smith, AR, Jayne Scherrman of Cape Girardeau, MO, Sally (Russ) Drafahl, Molly (Jerry) Evers both of Dyersville and Francis Xavier “Frank” (Theresa) Scherrman of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren: Casey (Ben) Raevsky, Daniel, Brad and Joseph Cook. Andy and Allie Berk. Janet, Melissa (Scott Burleson), Jake and Max Moore, Shannon Stoddard and Caitlin (Joey) Farley, William and Elizabeth Keene, Claire and Eva Williamson, and Jesse Drafahl, Tracy (Greg) Bognich, and Erica Evers, Jared, Justin, Jenna and Jolene Scherrman; 5 great grandchildren; uncle, Emmett (Ann) Scherrman of Cedar Rapids, IA; siblings: Don (Cookie) Scherrman of Dyersville, Bonnie Hunt of Fennville, MI, Scott (Sharon) Scherrman of Penngrove, CA and Joe (Shari) Scherrman of Lake Delhi; in-laws: Rose Marie (Leon) Lammers, Patrick (Dianne) Showalter, Peggy Westhoff, Tim (Mary) Showalter, and Jeanne Kass.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William (Bill) and Dula, a sister, Beth Scherrman in infancy, grandparents: Francis “Frank” and Philomena (Kelly) Scherrman, Ben and Molly (Gerken) Willenborg, and Godfather Carl Willenborg, who was killed in WWII; in-laws: Tom (Toby) Westhoff, and Rick Kass.

Special Thanks to Dr Robert Thomas and staff at Medical Associates of Dyersville.  All the staff at Mercy Hospital/Medical Associates of/in Dubuque who cared for Pat.

Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate and loving care they gave to Pat and his family.

Memorials are preferred to St. Francis Xavier Basilica.

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

Mary Lou Jacobi

Mary Lou Jacobi, 70, of Dubuque, died Thursday, March 12, 2020, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until a 7:00 PM prayer service, Monday, March 16, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary Lou will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Father Thomas McDermott as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Mary Lou was born August 8, 1949, in Dubuque, the daughter of Donald Wesley and Eldora Christina (Richard) Eddy. On November 23, 1990, she married Gerald Harold “Jake” Jacobi at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death September 14, 2012.

She was a 1967 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School. She was a office manager for Dr. Zelinskas for 22 years, Dr. Herzberger for three years, and worked at Steve Buchheit State Farm for 25 years.

Mary Lou’s family was very important to her. She loved her brother Dick and sister-in-law Darlene and their families. She was a proud aunt, great-aunt and great-great-aunt.

Jake was the love of her life. They did everything together. They both loved Christmas. The house was decorated every year – Jake with his villages and Mary Lou with her Christmas trees and decorations in every room of the house.

Mary Lou was “the friend a friend would love to have.” She was always going to a nursing home, hospital, or someone’s house to visit, play cards, or just sit and talk or pray. If you needed her, she was there.

She loved life and lived life her way. She didn’t have any children – her pets were her kids.

She had a strong faith in God and rarely missed a mass. Consider yourself blessed if you were on her prayer list – that meant you were someone very special to her.

Birthdays were something special to her, only she didn’t have a birth”day”, she had a birth”month”. She celebrated the whole month of August.

She loved her country. The fourth of July was almost as important as Christmas.

When her friend Emil Hoffman lost his wife, he moved in with Mary Lou and they had a great companionship. They both enjoyed playing the penny slots at the casino. She took care of Emil until his death at the age of 90 years old.

She had a great but short friendship with Tom Glab. They both lost their spouses and enjoyed going out together with friends.

Survivors include her brother, Richard (Darlene) Eddy of Dubuque; four nieces and nephews, Dick (Paula) Eddy, Kathy (Steve) McDermott, Jeff (Char) Eddy, and Nancy (Dave) Crimmins; 11 great-nieces and great-nephews; ten great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; and her poodle, Penny.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one brother Donald Eddy, and her special friend Emil.

Her family thanks Dr. Kirkendall and his nurse Kate and the staff at MercyOne for their kind care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Dubuque Humane Society and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Dwight W. Bischel

Dwight William Bischel, of Dubuque and formerly of Evanston and Galena, IL, passed away on February 28 at the age of 91.  Born on May 4, 1928, Dwight was the son of the late Albert Clair Bischel and Alice Bensen, and husband of the late Sally Krauss Bischel.

A longtime resident of Evanston, Dwight attended Northwestern University, and pursued a career in the relatively young field of television, directing programs at NBC Channel 5, ABC Channel 7 and WFLD  in Chicago.  For many years he was the director of the popular Kukla, Fran and Ollie show, during which it won an Emmy Award.  His show Newscope also won an Emmy.  In 1957, Dwight traveled with station colleagues to the Soviet Union, a rare event during the height of the Cold War.  Dwight later worked for Illinois Bell Corporate Television Group, directing internal films and videos.  Dwight was a member of the Chicago Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, serving as the secretary for 18 years, and the Directors Guild of America.  He also had a successful photography business, winning several awards for his work, including three at the International Exhibition of Nature Photography.

Dwight was well known for his many charitable activities and life long association with scouting.  An Eagle Scout and recipient of the Order of The Arrow and Silver Beaver Award, he was a long serving Scout Master for Evanston Troop 21 and a Wood Badge Counselor; for many years he took his scouts on expeditions to the Colorado Rocky Mountains and Scout Jamborees.  In 1952, Dwight authored the much beloved Wabaningo Lodge Emblem Handbook, documenting the early badges of the Boy Scout’s Order of the Arrow lodges.  In 1976, he received Illinois Bell’s most prestigious award, the Alexander Graham Bell Award for his community service, and in 1980 was given the prestigious Good Scout Award by the Chicago Area Council of BSA.  Dwight  was also an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Evanston, where he met his wife, Sally.

Following his 1992 retirement from Illinois Bell, Dwight and Sally moved to Galena, IL, where he continued his community activities, becoming an active member of the Galena Rotary Club, instituting a program whereby every local 3rd grade student received a dictionary.  In 1999, he was one of the club’s Rotarians of the Year.  Dwight worked on documenting local history, creating a detailed areal map of the Galena River, and creating several videos related to the Galena area.  He was also a member of the Galena Art Guild, showing his photographs. Until 2016, local residents could often find him working at Gasser’s Hardware Store, where he worked part-time, indulging in his love of computers, gadgets and strawberry milk shakes from nearby Culvers.

Dwight was preceded in death by Sally, his wife of 37 years, his parents, and sister Elinor.  He is survived by his son Wesley Bischel of Lancaster, PA, husband of Marsha, and their son Samuel.

Dwight preferred to photograph live flowers, so the family asks that donations be made to the Galena Rotary Club, c/o The DeSoto House, 230 South Main ST, Galena, IL 61036; or your local Boy Scout Troop.  And Dwight would have asked you to remember him by doing “a good turn” for others.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 4, 11 AM  at the Schapville Zion Presbyterian Church, 635 East Schapville Road, Elizabeth, IL.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of arrangements. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Dwight’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mary R. Derby

Mary Ruth Derby, 92, of Burlington, formerly of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2020, at New London Care Center, New London, IA.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Entombment will be in Linwood Cemetery Mausoleum.

Mary was born January 16, 1928 in Lowell, Kansas, the daughter of Andrew and Lena Beryl (Newman) Stuart. She married Howard C. Derby on July 17, 1951 in Lynnville, IA. He preceded her in death on December 23, 2013.

Mary was a teacher for the Burlington Community School District for 31 years.

Mary enjoyed the arts and frequently attended plays and musical performances. She also enjoyed tending to her flowers. She played the piano for many years at Heritage Free Methodist Church, where she and Howard were members. Family was very important to her and she spent many days during her retirement with her grandchildren, making sure that they too had these experiences.

Mary is survived by two children, H. David (Patti) Derby, of Dubuque and Deborah (Jim) Stinson, of Burlington; her grandchildren, Christina (Bill) Gilpin, Melissa (Scott Rood), Marcques (Kaylyn Parker), Andrew (Krystal Brokus Davis), and William (Jessica) Derby, Amber (Ben) Robinson, and Brandon (Kristine Schwass) Stinson; her great-grandchildren, Clayton, Brock, and Addison Gilpin, Cassandra, Bryson, Marjorie, and Wyatt Derby, Aden Nelson, and Miah and Raven Brokus Hughes; and two sisters-in-law, Juanita and Lorraine Stuart.

In addition to her husband, Mary was preceded in death by three brothers, Ashley, David, and Paul Stuart; one sister, Helen Miller and one great-grandchild, Colton Rood.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff and friends at New London Specialty Care and Hawkeye Care Center, Dubuque.

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

Vernon Kass

Vernon Kass, 83 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at home.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 am Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Saint Raphael Cathedral with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation for Vern will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2020 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where there will be a parish wake service at 3:00 p.m.

Vern was born on April 20, 1936 in Saint Catherine, Iowa, the son of Charles and Theresa (Poll) Kass. He married Janice Stoffel on June 18, 1960 at Saint Patrick Church in Epworth, and she preceded him in death on December 6, 2016.

Vern farmed in the St. Catherine area for many years. In his later years, he worked in construction as an old school roofer for many years. Vern was a hardworking man who passed on his work ethic to his children.

He was a devoted and loving husband and was dedicated to caring for his wife, Janice. Vern had a giving nature and was always willing to lend a helping hand. He would give the shirt off his back to help anyone.

Vern loved to make pies, play Euchre, and cribbage, and work in his garden. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed collecting John Deere memorabilia. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus Council 510 and parish member of St. Raphael Cathedral.

He is survived by his children Debra (George) Moler, Charlie Kass, David (Siow Leng Long) Kass, Dan (Theresa) Kass, Don (Karla) Kass and Dennis Kass; seven grandchildren Kyle Sheffer, Nicole Kass, Nathan Kass, Lauren Kass, Meredith Kass, Jordan Kass, and Ryan Kass; two sisters Rose Hartung and Mary Ann Steffen; brother-in-law Noel Kurt and sister-in-law Mary Agnes Kass; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Janice; two brothers, his twin Vincent who passed 8 years ago also on March 11th, and Joseph; two sisters Betty Kurt and Theresa Basten; brothers-in-law Loras Steffen and Leonard Hartung; sister-in-law Margaret Kass.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ronald Schope and his staff, the VNA Clinic, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Paul, for all their care and kindness they gave to Vern. A special thank you to all of Vern’s family for their dedicated, loving care.

In lieu of flowers, a Vern Kass memorial fund will be established.

Jean (Hughes) Dunne

Jean “Duffy” (Hughes) Dunne, 83, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at Mill Valley Care Center.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Monday, March 16, 2020 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek. Family will greet friends 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, March 15, 2020 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be again Monday morning from 9:00 am – 10:00 am also at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery in Otter Creek.

Jean was born February 17, 1937, the daughter of John and Rita (Duffy) Hughes. She graduated from Immaculate Conception High School. She married Joseph Dunne on November 10, 1956 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Temple Hill, he passed on June 15, 2015. Jean was a member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church, enjoyed quilting, playing cards, and attending family events. She was an avid Cubs Fan, Hawkeye Fan, active in AA and Al-Anon. Jean was a great cook, and the “rock” of her family.

Survivors include her children, Gary (Martha) Dunne of Otter Creek, Pat (Jody) Dunne of Andrew, Kevin (Allison) Dunne of Orlando, FL, Brian (Wendy) Dunne of Andrew, Phillip (Lanie) Dunne of Marion, and JoEllen (Terry) McGugan of Denver, CO; 21 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; a brother, Robert (Donna) Hughes; sisters and brothers in-law, Katie Hughes, Kay Hughes, Donna (Maurice) Sturm, and Bill (Jean) Dunne.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; siblings, Pat and Dave Hughes; and a sister and brother in-law, Ellen (Neil) Donovan.

The family would like to thank all the staff of Sunrise Villa and Mill Valley Care Center and Hospice of Jackson County for your care and support during this time.

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

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

Sr. Patricia Heuer, OSF

Sister Patricia Heuer, OSF, 103 of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa, died at 1:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2020, at Clare House.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be, Monday, March 16, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. in Francis Chapel. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Visitation: 4:00–7:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, 2020 with Funeral Vigil at 7:00 p.m. in Francis Chapel.

Sister Pat was born on July 29, 1916 in Sturgis, South Dakota., the daughter of Benjamin and Susan (Frisch) Heuer.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 12, 1933 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1939.   Sister ministered as an educator in Iowa at Waterloo, Sioux City, and Dyersville; in Illinois at Midlothian, Melrose Park, and North Riverside; and in California at Crescent City.

Sister is survived by her sister-in-law Berniece Heuer, her nieces and nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers: John Heuer, Roman (Helen) Heuer and Henry Heuer; her sisters: Sister Mary Heuer, OSF, and Ora Belle (Edward) Sheehan.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Miller Funeral Home, East Dubuque is in charge of the arrangements.

Mary A. Zepeski

Mary A. Zepeski, age 92 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on March 7, 2020 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury.  To honor Mary’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mary’s family.

Mary was born on January 21, 1928 in Dubuque, Iowa, a daughter to Leo and Agnes (Wilberding) Reiff. She was a proud graduate of the Immaculate Conception, Class of 1945. Mary began her working career as a telephone operator with Northwestern Bell, but eventually found herself working alongside Norman Zepeski at his Link Art and Photography Studio in Dubuque. The two were soon united in marriage on April 17, 1951 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. They were blessed with two sons, and 59 years of marriage before Norman was sadly called home in October of 2010. Her heart was broken, never to be completely healed, until she joined his side again in heaven.

Mary found plenty of activities to keep her mind and body busy outside of work. Her faithful devotion to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church was continually on display as she practiced her faith life through a daily walk with her Lord and Savior. She also gave continually of her time and talents as a board member with ARC, and a longtime member of the YWCA. Mary also spent countless afternoons boating on the river with her family, venturing to Colorado on ski trips, and playing multiple rounds of golf each week when the weather was welcoming. Mary and Norman went on several trips to Door County, WI and passed this love on to her family. Her affection for companionship was always evident whether she was gathering with her Bridge Club, or spending some quality time just visiting with her friends. Her grandchildren will remember her as an expert euchre partner, Hawkeye sports aficionado, and steadfast source of conversation and honest advice. Mary cherished gathering with relatives and seeing the family she helped to nurture and build. We will love and miss Mary with heavy hearts moving forward, but we have faith that she is now walking humbly with her Lord. Thank you, Mary, for the life lessons and stories, may the peace you have searched so diligently for, finally be yours!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mary include,

her son,
David J. (Kay) Zepeski, Dubuque, Iowa;

her daughter-in-law,
Sondra Zepeski (Mixdorf) , Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandchildren,
Douglas (Anne) Zepeski, Scott (fiancé Kelsie Berns) Zepeski, Laura Zepeski, Taylor (fiancé Jason Pfankuch) Zepeski, Kaitlin (Micah) Vansciver, Zachary (Haley) Zepeski, Zachary (Sommer) Mixdorf, Nathan Mixdorf, Myra Mixdorf, Justin Mixdorf and Ayla Mixdorf;

her great-grandchildren,
Mari O’Malley, McKenzee and Madden Vansciver, Cooper, Zoe and Ellie Zepeski and Aria Mixdorf;

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

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Norman Zepeski; her son, Jay Zepeski; and her sister, Eulaia (Richard) Unsen.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Mary’s name to Luther Manor Grand Meadows, or Hospice of Dubuque.

Mary’s family would like to extend a sincere, enormous thank you to the nurses and staff at Luther Manor Grand Meadows, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of the professional and compassionate care they have given to Mary, and her family.  We would also like to thank all of Mary’s dear friends over the years who have provided more love and support than anyone will ever know.  Mary’s life was abundantly full because of those who gave generously of their own time and energy and we cannot thank you enough for simply being you.

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

LaVonne F. Hoffman

LaVonne F. Hoffman, 91, of Dubuque died peacefully at Grand Meadows on Friday, February 28. 2020, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer.

The family will receive guests from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, March 29th at Steeple Square, 101 East 15th Street where a prayer service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Private internment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery at a later date.

LaVonne was born on June 23, 1928 in Sherrill, Iowa daughter of Herman J. and Mary Susan (Jungblut) Nauman.

She married Robert B. Hoffman on November 27, 1947 at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, Sherrill. He proceeded her in death on November 27, 2006 (their 59th wedding anniversary)

LaVonne was an excellent baker of breads and worked in that capacity at the Ryan House. She also later worked at Bishop’s Buffet. She was a volunteer at the Dubuque Arboretum and enjoyed tending to her many flower gardens that adorned her homes. She also had a love for reading, literally reading thousands of books.

LaVonne is survived by her children Bob (Faye) Hoffman, John (Sue) Hoffman, Kathy (John) Jeidy, Ed Hoffman, Nancy (Fred Wallace) Tauke, Bill (Julie) Hoffman, Laura (Brian) Barry, Andy Hoffman, Nick (Carol) Hoffman and Mark (Jayne Kotecki) Hoffman, 22 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings John (Ann) Nauman, Germaine Freiburger, Teresa Kroll, Agnes (Robert) O’Neill, Adele Peters and Margaret (Ken) Ziegenfuss, sisters-in-law Marge Nauman, DaLee Preston and Charlene Wiebold and brother-in-law Herbert Benn and many nieces and nephews,

LaVonne was preceded in death by her parents, grandson Christopher Tauke, sibilings Mildred Wirzbach, Gregory Nauman, Henry Nauman, Norbert Nauman, Herman Nauman, half brother Eldon Nauman, half sisters Marian Bales, Lucille Beau, Sister Eleanor Nauman, and Clara Spoden; in-laws Robert Wirzbach, Helen Nauman, Eileen Nauman, Leora Nauman, Loras Freiburger, Gene Kroll, George Peters, Jeanette Williams, Donna Benn, William Hoffman and Burton Hoffman.

The family would like to thank Dr. Shaw for his kind attention to our mother over several decades. In lieu of flowers, LaVonne requested memorials be given to the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens in her name.

Nina J. Jurisic

Nina June “Boots” Jurisic, 94, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, March 11, 2020, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM Friday, March 13, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. The funeral service for Mrs. Jurisic will be 1:00 PM Friday, March 13, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Reverend Dianne Grace as the officiant. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Boots was born October 1, 1925, in Dubuque, the daughter of George “Pat” and Minnie Jonas Avenarius. On April 15, 1946, she married George P. Jurisic in Dubuque. He died January 1, 1971.

She had worked at Mercy Medical Center in the cafeteria as a salad maker.

She was a member of the Eagles Club and was a foster grandparent. She was very close with her sisters and loved spending time with them.

Survivors include two sons, Gene Jurisic of Dubuque, and Terry (Debra) Jurisic of Eldridge, IA; six grandchildren, Gene Jurisic, Jr., Susana Jurisic, Harley Jurisic, Nicole (Allan) Vatnsdal, Joshua (Melanie) Jurisic, and Stephanie (Matthew) Arensdorff; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Ruth Ann Jurisic, one grandson, Christopher Jurisic, five brothers, Harold “Cyril”, Milton, Gerald, Norman and Eldon Avenarius, and three sisters, Mona “Sis” Fens, Delaine Vogt, and Minnetta “Nettie” Fortner.

The family thanks the 3rd floor staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care.

Memorials have been established for Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

June M. (Kress) Friederick

June M. (Kress) Friederick, 76, of LaMotte Iowa had her last day in this life and began her new one on March 8th, 2020.

To honor June’s life, friends and family can join us at Midtown Marina in East Dubuque, IL on March 18th from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a celebration of a wonderful life she lived.

June was born on June 11, 1943 in Potosi, WI, the daughter of George and Viola (Bierman) Kress. She graduated from Potosi High School in 1961. She married Kenny Friederick on November 30th, 1963 in Dickeyville, WI.

June & Ken farmed in LaMotte Iowa their entire life together. June milked cows for 44 years and was great at her job. Along with working hard she was an excellent gardener, canner, and cook.

She loved euchre, poker, fishing, gambling, spending time at their cabin, enjoyed their time spent in Arizona and most of all laughing and having a good time. Her friends and family were her greatest joy.

June has always said “saying I love you doesn’t mean much, it’s showing it, that’s’ what counts!” She did by example, her advice, time, a helping hand, acceptance and loving nature. Her last amazing act of kindness was donating her body for research. Her humor and laughter were contagious. She will forever be missed.

Those left to cherish so many great memories are her husband of 56 years, Kenny Friederick; her sisters, Nell Leibfried and Diane Schaal; sisters-in-law Suzanne Kress, Carol & Carl Friederick, Ester & Clete Kruser, Carol, Janet and Pat Friederick; lots of nieces and nephews. Her 5 children, Renee (Brian) Ridenour, of Luana, Iowa, Tim (Dawn) Friederick, of St .Donatus IA, Rhonda (Dirk) Deutmeyer, of Epworth, IA, Tom Friederick (Jackie) of LaMotte, IA., and Jodi (Tim) Cook of Cascade, IA; 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Eldon Kress, John (Sandy) Kress & Pete Kress. Brother & Sister in laws Ralph (Florence), Joe (Mary), Earl, Donny, Shirley, Leo Friederick and Doug Schaal. No shortage of euchre players.

So much thanks to Hospice of Jackson Co. for their excellent care. June considered the nurses her friends.

In lieu of flowers please do a kind act for someone in her memory. Memorials will be split among her favorite charities.

Make people laugh, spend time with those who make you laugh
~June

Marie Dorothy Donar

Marie Dorothy Donar, 98, of Menominee, passed away Sunday, March 8, 2020, at Galena Stauss Senior Care Community, in the company of her nephew Dan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, March 14, at Nativity BVM Catholic Church, Menominee, with the Rev. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4-7 P.M. on Friday, March 13, 2020 at Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish and St. Ann’s Society rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. Friends may also call from 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.

Marie was born on August 8, 1921, at home in lower Menominee, the third of six children. She grew up in the Menominee and Galena area, attending school at “Dirty” Ridge School and Menominee School.

Marie farmed with her parents, brothers, sister and sister-in-law in the Menominee, East Dubuque, Dubuque and Galena areas, and later near Potosi. She spent many years living with Dan and Mary Kay and helped raise their family. Upon retirement, she resided once again in Menominee with her brothers and sister. As the surviving matriarch of the Donar family, she lived with Dan and Mary Kay in her final years. She devoted her life to the Blessed Virgin Mary and helping others.

Surviving are her nephews, Dan (Mary Kay) Donar, of Menominee, and Leo “Lee” (Vickie) Donar, of Hazel Green; nieces, Theresa (Lewis) Riniker, of Benton, and Linda (Don) Stierman, of Toledo and Brenda (Ron) Donar of Cuba City, many great-nieces and nephews, and many cousins, especially her first godchild, Barbara (Steve) Vogt.

She was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Theresa (Bishop) Donar; four brothers John, Leo, Clem, and Nick; one sister, Anna Mae; one sister-in-law, Mary; and two great nieces, Rebecca Riniker and Alazaya Vickerman.

The family wishes to thank Galena Stauss Senior Care Community and their employees for the care provided to Marie.

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