Obituaries Archive

Paul U. Birkett

Paul U. Birkett, 84, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Friday, November 6, 2020, at Epione Pavilion in Cuba City, Wisconsin.  Private family services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 9, 2020, at the United Methodist Church in Cuba City with Pastor Jessica Graham officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Cuba City. Services and burial will be livestreamed through the funeral home Facebook page.  Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is serving the family.

Paul was born on October 28, 1936, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Homer and Lois (Dent) Birkett.  He married Mary Ellen Sheffer on August 28, 1964, at the United Methodist Church in Cuba City.  She preceded him in death on December 30, 2014.

Paul was a graduate of Cuba City High School in 1954 and UW-Platteville in 1958.  He served with the 32^nd Infantry Red Arrow Division of the Army National Guard, Platteville, serving in Ft. Lewis, Washington.  Paul retired from John Deere Dubuque Works after 35 years of service.  He was a member of the United Methodist Church.  Paul was a member of the Cuba City Lions Club serving as president, vice-president, and membership chair.  He was honored with the Lions Distinguished Service Award, Melvin Jones Fellowship Award, Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin Gift of Sight Award, Lion of the Year and Lions Knight of Sight Award.  Paul was a past member of the Cuba City School Board and served on the City of Presidents Committee in Cuba City.

Paul was a dedicated community servant, finding great passion in serving others and giving.  He was a loving husband, proud father and grandfather.  He never missed a child’s or grandchild’s event.  Paul enjoyed all things Cuba City athletics and music, his Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers.  He also enjoyed traveling, camping and planning adventures, especially summer vacation car trips.  Paul treasured his many friends and could strike up a conversation with anyone and immediately be their friend.  He was a soft spoken man with a strong faith and compassionate heart.  We will miss our Papa Paul.

Survivors include his children, Julie Marie (Alan) Piper, Janesville, WI, and Steven Alan (Tina) Birkett, Fennimore, WI; four grandchildren, Maggie (Lucas) Niemeyer, Drew Piper, Brianna Birkett and Matthew Birkett; a sister-in-law, Margaret Birkett, Montello, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Donald Birkett, Ron Birkett and an infant brother; a sister, Maxine “Pat” (Jack) Robson; and a great-nephew, Samuel Straub.

A Paul U. Birkett Memorial Fund has been established.  Memorials may be sent to the family in care of the funeral home, 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, WI  53807.

The family would like to extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the staff at Epione Pavilion.  We are grateful for all of the tender care, compassion and love given by his caretaker angel family over so many years.

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

Peggy M. Trowbridge

Peggy Maxine Trowbridge, 86, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at Luther Manor following a long battle with Parkinson’s.

Private family services will be held at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Interment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum, Mount Calvary Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Peggy was born October 25, 1934 in Bagley, WI, the daughter of Clifford and Blanche (Hampton) Pitzer.

She married Ralph W. “Bill” Trowbridge on October 30, 1953 in Farley, IA and was married for 53 years before he preceded her in death on December 17, 2006.

Peggy was employed for 21 years as a machinist at Dubuque Stamp & Manufacturing. She was a past member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Peggy was a wonderful wife, mother, and grandmother. Her home was a gathering place for family and friends. She was known for her kind heart, loving nature, and her willingness to listen, give advice, and share a laugh. She enjoyed trying her luck with the slot machines and scratch-offs and was an avid shopper. She is lovingly known as the “Queen of QVC”. She will truly be missed by all.

Peggy is survived by her children, Jerry (Nancy) Trowbridge of Rickardsville, Sandra (David) Lieb of Dubuque, Barbara (Mark) Saunier of Austin, TX, Dawn (Ron) Udelhofen of Peosta, Beverly (Tom) Steuer of Dubuque, and Robin (Randy) Breiner of Durango, IA; 15 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; three brothers, Nick (Ann) Pitzer, John Pitzer, and Rick (Stephanie) Pitzer; one sister, Paula (Jim) Revenig; and her brother-in-law, Roger Trowbridge.

In addition to her husband, Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; two great-grandsons, Mason Oberfoell and Devin Dress; three brothers, Gary, Harold, and Clifford Pitzer; and three sisters, Mary Kramer, Beverly Spahn, and Donna Pitzer.

Memorials may be made to the Peggy Trowbridge memorial fund, and mailed to the funeral home.

The family would like to thank the Luther Manor staff for their care and compassion during the past five years and Hospice of Dubuque for their support during this difficult time.

Ronald Doerr

Ronald Doerr, 76, of Dubuque, died Friday, November 6, 2020, at the ManorCare Health Services in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm Sunday November 8, 2020 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road. 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 Ronald’s family.

The Funeral Service for Ronald will be 10:00 am Monday, November 9, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. The service will be live streamed on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.

Ronald was born July 23, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, the son of George and Pearl Hartmann Doerr. On April 10,1966 he married Camillia Sheridan in Orlando, Florida. They were blessed with 53 years.

He was a U.S. AirForce Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War from 1962 until 1966.

Ron was not a handyman, he was not mechanically minded, but he sure could shoot some pheasants. He also enjoyed playing Euchre at the Lifetime Center every week. Ron was a frustrated fan of the Minnesota Vikings and enjoyed watching NASCAR, specifically Jeff Gordon. He was an avid outdoorsman, he loved to be outside.

Survivors include his loving wife, Camillia Doerr of Dubuque; one son, Jeff (Theresa) Doerr of Dubuque; four granddaughters, Kinsey, Kendall, Rory, and Callie; one honorary grandson, Max Huss; and one sister, Carol Brimeyer of Dubuque

He is preceded in death by one daughter, Jill Lusterberg; three brothers Robert, Merlin, and Edward; and one sister, Lavonne Marshall.

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 Ronald’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Janice M. (Clapham) Felderman

Janice M. (Clapham) Felderman, 74, of LaMotte, passed away on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 while resting at home.

Funeral Service will be 10:30 am, Monday, November 9, 2020 at St. John Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. Visitation will be 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, November 8, 2020 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be after 9:30 am, Monday at the church prior to services. Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery in St. Donatus
Funeral Services will be live streamed on the St. Paul’s and St. John’s Lutheran Churches Facebook Page. It is recommended to utilize masks and respect social distancing during the visitation at the funeral home and masks are required at the funeral service due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Janice was born February 1, 1946 in Finley Hospital, the daughter of Eldon and Lorraine (Coates) Clapham. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964 and married Ernie Felderman on September 4, 1965. Janice was a longtime member, taught Sunday School for many years, and participate in the Women of the Church Bible Study at St. John Lutheran Church in St. Donatus. Janice and Ernie farmed together and were equal partners in all their farming operations and business ventures all their married life. They worked hand in hand running a successful farming operation and raising their family. She was very active in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. She enjoyed watching her grandchildren play sports and participating in 4-H and also was a 4-H Leader. Janice also loved to cook, bake and always had her famous apple pie ready for company. She loved the land, livestock, and John Deere Tractors. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Ernie; children, Leland Felderman, Leita Marks, and Mark (Dina) Felderman; grandchildren, Michael Felderman, Katie Adams, Ethan and Micaela Marks, and Lexi, Kinsley, and Adley Felderman; great-grandchildren, Ace and Ava Adams; siblings, Arlene (Carl) Selzer and Denise (Lyle) Richardson; a brother and sister in-law, Darel (Jeanette) Felderman; and a sister in-law, Yvette.

Janice was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter, Regina Felderman, a brother, Harlan Clapham; a brother in law, Leroy Felderman; and her father and mother in-law, Orville and Marie Felderman .

Memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or LaMotte Rescue Squad in Janice’s memory.

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

Eugene C. Skinner

Eugene Clyde Skinner, 95, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at Luther Manor in Dubuque due to COVID-19.

Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 10:15 AM Saturday, November 7, 2020, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. In accordance to the city mask mandate, masks are required at the visitation and mass. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Eugene’s family.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Eugene will be 10:30 AM Saturday, November 7, 2020, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Jim Goerend as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. 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.

Eugene was born May 21, 1925, in Glen Haven, WI, the son of Clyde and Irene Wildman Skinner. On October 5, 1946, he married Alice M. Howe at Church of the Nativity in Dubuque. She passed away April 6, 2019.

Gene was a World War II U.S. Army Veteran serving from 1943 until 1946 with the AAA Battery B 514th Battalion 10th Army.

He was a Past Commander of the American Legion Post. He held many positions such as Director, President, and Vice President of the Iowa Bowling Association. He was the President and Secretary of the Dubuque Bowling Association, as well as President and member of the Iowa State Senior Bowling Association and Hall of Fame. He is a member of the Hall of Fame at the Bowling Association at the local, state, seniors, and State Senior Levels. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works starting in 1948, having served as a Vice President of UAW Local 94 for 6 years, and retired as a supervisor in 1981. He also served as a special deputy sheriff for 15 years, a casket bearer for St. Vincent de Paul for eight years, and was a lifetime member of the DAV-VFW.

Survivors include his children, Connie (Don) Riedl of Dubuque, Barbara (Jerry) Hawbaker of Olive Branch, MS, Marsha (Pat) Corken of Dubuque, Marla (Ken) Cruise of Dubuque, William Skinner of Dubuque, Gail (Dennis) Hayes of Dubuque, Paul Skinner of Dubuque, Stacy (Tim) Vath of Greer, SC; 24 grandchildren; 36 great-grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; and one sister, Mary Pauley of Burton, WI.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Monroe Skinner; one Sister, Ruth Blindert; and brothers-in-law, Harlan “Tess” Pauley and Arnold Blindert.

A special thank you to Luther Manor staff, especially Mary and Linda for their loving care and support.

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 Eugene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

June M. Henrichs Buol

June Marie Henrichs Buol (JuneBug), 94, of Scotch Grove passed away November 3, 2020, at the Monticello Nursing & Rehabilitation Center after a period of declining health.

Family services will be held November 7, 2020, at the Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa and burial at the Scotch Grove cemetery. There will be no visitation. The Reverend Frank Shepherd, Jr. will officiate.

June was born June 28, 1926 at the Henrichs’ family farm outside of Scotch Grove. She was the only, much-loved daughter of Wlliam B. Henrichs and Fannie Johanna (Hedden) Henrichs. She attended country school through the 8th grade and then moved to Monticello to complete her education. She graduated at the age of 16 with the class of 1943. She was also a member of the Scotch Grove band and 4-H club. She attended Coe College in Cedar Rapids, and then joined the workforce. Over the years; she worked at Energy Manufacturing, Yeastex, Kromminga Motors, Fred Iben Excavating, Lasso E RV, Inc., Dee Gosling & Company, Job Service of Iowa, and Jones Regional Medical Center. In addition to these jobs, she was very proud that she worked at Balster’s Implement and Parts Company from 1952 until 2009.

She was baptized and confirmed at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church and then married Robert J. Buol on September 11, 1955. At the time of her passing, she was a member of the Scotch Grove Presbyterian Church. June and Bob farmed in the Scotch Grove area, moved to Center Junction, and finally back to Scotch Grove.

She was a founding member of Midland Council of Churches and a founding member of the Scotch Grove Pinochle club. She was the treasurer at Scotch Grove Presbyterian Church for many years and was a correspondent for the Monticello Express.

She enjoyed traveling with Bob to Bluegrass festivals, dancing, playing cards, reading, eating out, and social media.

Surviving are five daughters: Janet of Cedar Rapids, Jeri (Greg) Smith of Iowa City, Jill (Dan) Krapfl of Coggon, Jayne (Don) Lyons of Denison, and Jacqueline of North Liberty; Six grandchildren: Devin (Rachel) Smith, Trevor (WeiJing) Smith, Nick (Carrie) Krapfl, Nate (Megan) Krapfl, Teala Krapfl (Mike Perna), and Robert D. Lyons; ten great-grandchildren: Mahala, Lydia, Katherine Smith; Arthur Smith; Kendall, Blake, Landry Krapfl; Dreis, Everly and Hayes Krapfl. Special cousins: Susan (Yorgos) Zazas, Lynn Liontos, and Jon (Ann) Schrader. Her sisters-in-law: Lorraine Haag and Elaine Buol. Her chosen sisters of her heart: JoAnne (Bob) Klinkhammer, JoAnne (Neal) Paulsen and Dee (Paul) Rohrbacker. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

June was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Fannie; her husband Bob in 2005; her special aunts, Minnie (Arend) Balster and Lena (Alva) Zimmerman; her cousin, Leslie Balster; and her chosen sisters of her heart, Mayeda Jansen, Joyce Paulsen and Delores Schrader; her in-laws, John, Elizabeth, Lavern, Eddie, John Jr, Marvin Buol and Elaine Stoneking; and numerous relatives on the Hedden/Henrichs sides.

Condolences may be directed to the family in care of Kramer Funeral Home, PO Box 791, Monticello, IA 52310.

Special thanks to Danielle Capron for her help, kindness and love over the years.

Our JuneBug is again dancing the night away. And so it goes . . .

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com

John J. Caldwell

John J. Caldwell, age 62, of Dubuque, passed away at 6:40 p.m., on Wednesday, November 4, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital. To celebrate John’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Due to COVID-19 concerns all who attend will be required to wear a face covering, and are asked to please maintain social distancing practices. To honor John’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 3:00 p.m., on Sunday, November 8, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

John was born on October 2, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Kenneth and Kathleen (Metz) Caldwell.

John was a life long resident of Dubuque, who graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1977. He loved to work and always kept busy. He was employed with the cable company and after that went to work with the Diamond Jo Casino in the security department for 16 years, until his early retirement due to health concerns. John also volunteered countless hours with the Dubuque Auxiliary Police Department. He was always available anytime anyone needed extra help. In his spare time, John enjoyed sitting and watching television, as well as playing games with the family. He had a great memory and Trivial Pursuit was his game of choice. John truly loved any time spent with his family, but pizza parties were among some of his favorite activities. He was also a die hard Cubs fan, go Cubbies! We are deeply saddened at John being taken from us after only 62 years, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now free of all of the health challenges he has faced so bravely these past years.

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

his siblings,
Theresa Caldwell,
Mary (Terry) Kaune,
Mark Caldwell,
Barbara Bisping, all of Dubuque, IA
and Margaret (Nelson) NeCollins, Lancaster, WI;

his 3 Godchildren,
Michael, Kenny and Kelsey;

and several nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by both of his parents.

John’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of ManorCare for all of the care they have provided to John the last 7 ½ years, they have become a part of the family. His family also appreciates the expert care he received from Finley Hospital from the ER, ICU and 5th Floor Staff. And last, but not least, Tom and Don Leick, for being such wonderful, life long friends to John.

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. John Caldwell Family.

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

Kenneth C. Roddick

Kenneth C. “Kenny” Roddick, 75, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Monday, November 2, 2020, at Unity Point-Finley Hospital, Dubuque, Iowa. Services will be held at a later date. Casey-McNett Funeral Home of Cuba City is serving the family.

Kenny was born on February 26, 1945, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Carl and Eileen (Droessler) Roddick. He retired from John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works where he worked for 30 years.

After retirement he enjoyed catching blue gills at Apple Canyon Lake. Kenny liked to tell jokes and stories. A man who didn’t know a stranger, he loved to be around people.

Survivors include his son, Troy Roddick, De Soto, KS; his sisters, Diana (Ken) Comer, Farley, IA, and Charlene (Mike) Munyon, Cuba City, WI; a brother, Steven (Cathy) Roddick, Balltown, IA; and three grandchildren, Jhasmine Watson, Springfield, MO, Shummer Roddick, Kansas City, MO, and Chelyi Roddick, Lawrence, KS

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, John and Ricky Roddick.

Memorials may be sent to the funeral home at 123 N. Jackson St., Cuba City, Wisconsin 53807.

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

John Holmes

John “Jack” Holmes of Dubuque died peacefully at home surrounded by family on November 3rd, at the age of 85.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, November 6, 2020 at St. Columbkilles Catholic Church with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. Committal prayers will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Family and friends may gather from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church. A livestream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Jack was born at home on February 12, 1935 in Manly, IA to Thomas and Marguerite (Murray) Holmes. He graduated from Rock Falls High School in 1954. After marrying Dianne Donahue, they moved to Dubuque where he worked for the Archdiocese of Dubuque until his retirement in 2000. Jack and Dianne would have celebrated their 50th anniversary this coming December.

Jack is survived by his wife, Dianne of Dubuque, and children Mark (Miki) of Houston, TX; Scot (Gina) of Concord, CA; Colette (Zeke) Philipsen of Des Moines, IA; Tim (Teresa) of Lakewood, CO; David (Janice) of Littleton, CO; and Jackie (Jim) Kuennen of Dubuque as well as 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and his beloved black lab, Grace.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ann (Molsberry) Holmes, his brothers Murray and Lee, and sisters Mary Alitz and Marge Pappas.

Jack loved fishing with his kids and grandkids. He was a dad, grandpa, and true friend to so many. He will be greatly missed, but those who knew him best can smile knowing that he will be sipping a Dew-ball in heaven today.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Salas and his staff, and the Unity Point nurses and staff.

Ruth M. Casteel

Ruth M. Casteel, 95, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, November 2, 2020, at Luther Manor in Dubuque from complications of COVID 19.

A private family graveside service and burial celebrating Ruth’s life will be held at Harmony Cemetery, Zwingle, Iowa. There is no public visitation. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Ruth Maxine Ihrig was born on December 4, 1924 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Henry G. and Marguerite A. (Straub) Ihrig. She was a 1941 graduate of Maquoketa High School where she was the class salutatorian. She then attended Maquoketa Junior College and graduated in 1943. She first worked as a 7th and 8th grade teacher at Monmouth. She married Donald R. Casteel on February 15, 1944 in Zwingle, Iowa. Three daughters were born to this union: Carol, Connie and Cathy.

In addition to being a homemaker and mother, she helped Don on the farm. Later when Don became a consultant for the the Iowa Farm Business Association, she helped him with taxes.

Ruth had a strong faith and was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. She had previously been a member of the Emeline Church where she served as an Elder and the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa where she had taught Sunday School. She was also a 4-H leader for many years and loved quilting, baking, gardening, traveling and reading.

Those left to honor her memory include her daughters, Carol (Richard) Nissen of Shakopee, MN; Connie (Denny) Wilcox of Maquoketa, IA; and Cathy (Charlie) Easterly of Maquoketa, IA; 9 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald on November 25, 2011, an infant sister, a sister Helen Brady, and a brother Walter Ihrig.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Ruth M. Casteel memorial fund.

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

Edna M. Wolter

Edna M. Wolter, 89, of Dubuque, passed away on Sunday November 1, 2020 at Luther Manor of Covid-19.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, at Church of the Nativity, with Rev. Dustin Vu officiating. Burial to follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens. No public visitation will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. A live stream of the funeral mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Edna was born on June 21, 1931 in Hopkinton, IA the daughter of Carl and Salome (Jaeger) Gudenkauf. She married Gerald Wolter on April 12, 1951 in Dyersville, IA. He preceded her in death in 1991.

Edna was employed at World of Fabrics as the store manager for many years. She later was a bookkeeper at Ardan’s and a tax assembler at Honkamp Krueger.

She was a member of the Church of the Nativity Altar and Rosary Society.

Edna enjoyed years of sewing and quilting, but her greatest joy was spending time with family and friends.

She is survived by her children; Diana (Dale) Wels, Debbie (Allan) Aasen, Susan (Ken) Wiezorek, David (Donna) Wolter, Joni (Herman) Meyer, her grandchildren; Kurt (Jody) Wels, Kim (Chad) Buske, Kelly (Mark) Cooper, Jeff (Camy) Aasen, Mike (Nicole) Aasen, Andrew (Chandra) Wiezorek, Mark (Petra) Wiezorek, Kevin (Taylor) Wolter, Kyle (Lacey) Wolter, Alexis (Jordon) Hansen, Natalie Meyer, Tim Meyer, 19 great grandchildren, her siblings; Donna (Paul) Hammerand, Lloyd (Lois) Gudenkauf, Joyce Petersen, Mae Venneman, Flora Ornelas, John (Barb) Gudenkauf.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter Patricia, a sister Lois (Edwin) Fangmann, brothers; Carl Jr. (Mary), Al (Bernice), Fay (Carol), In-laws; Richard (Ann) Wolter, Rita Jaeger Dolter, Louis Jaeger, Joe Dolter, Joe Ornelas, Jack Venneman, Keith Petersen.

Memorials in Edna’s name may be given to Church of the Nativity or Luther Manor.

Edna’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Luther Manor for their kind and attentive care of Edna.

Earl J. Alexander

Earl Joseph Alexander, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on November 2, 2020 at Finley hospital with his children at his side. A Private family committal service will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday at Asbury Cemetery and will be livestreamed for the public on the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home Facebook page.

Earl was born on April 20, 1936 in Lansing, Iowa. The son of Paul and Mabel Alexander. He married Gwendolyn Grace Hook on August 6, 1955 in Lansing, Iowa. Earl was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great-great grandfather. They had four children.

He loved deer hunting, landscaping, going to the casino, cocktails, and spending time with family. Earl was a thoughtful man that never forgot special events in others’ lives. He was a proud retired John Deere worker of 32 years and still treasured the John Deere tractor.

Surviving are his four children: Earl Jr. (Angie), Gale Kelley, Paula (Richard Wagner), Penny Alexander, 7 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, foster grandchildren, his sister Eleanor Homewood, and his sister-in-law Joan Alexander.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, Gwendolyn; parents, siblings, daughter-in-law Jan Alexander and son-in-law Ed Kelley.

We would like to thank the staff at Finley Hospital for superb health care and compassion during these trying times.

Donna J. (White) Smith

Donna Jean (White) Smith, 87, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation in Dubuque. As was true of so much she did, her passing was graceful, gentle, and beautiful.

A memorial service, coordinated through the Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, will be scheduled for summer 2021, in what the family hopes will be a post-pandemic celebration of Donna’s miraculous life.

Donna was born on October 8, 1933 in Guttenberg, Iowa, the youngest of five children to Olive and Thomas White. She grew up going to Methodist Sunday school classes, working at the town bakery, and enjoying weekly movies at the local cinema. She was especially close to her older sister Greta, who was a kind of second mother to her. Donna graduated from Guttenberg High School and moved to Dubuque, where she earned her Cosmetology degree and opened her own beauty parlor business.

For many years she was a cashier at the Dubuque Packing Company’s Retail Store. Always a people person, she later worked on the cut line at the Pack, at the Dubuque Memorial Gardens south of Dubuque, and then as a cashier at Kwik Stop near Key West. She loved her co-workers and customers, and they enjoyed interacting with her.

More than anything, Donna loved spending time with her family in her home. Her dining room table was the gathering place where several generations joined together in shared stories, memorable meals, and steady streams of laughter and love. Donna enjoyed good conversation and she had a bright and brilliant wit. She was always interested in the lives and concerns of her children, grandchildren, and friends, and she always warmly welcomed them home. She loved angels and lighthouses, and showered treats on her beloved dogs Shadow and Arthur. She loved solving crossword puzzles, playing cards, and dominating at Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and Boggle. She would joyfully play board games for hours with her children and grandchildren. Recently, she was able to meet her newly arrived great grandson.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, Olive and Thomas White; her sister Greta and her husband Andrew “Red” Hummel; her bothers Carl, Kenneth, and Douglas White; and by her husband, Orrin L. Smith.

Surviving Donna are many for whom she modeled kindness and compassion, many she taught how to love: Her sons Andy (of East Stroudsburg, PA), Scott (of Dubuque), and Steve (of Cedar Rapids, IA), and their respective spouses: Nandini, Ann, and Gloria; her grandchildren, Casey and his wife Courtney, Mitchell, Drew, Daniel and his wife Carmen, Elanor, and Abigail; and her great grandsons Carter and Tucker. Inseparable from Donna’s family is longtime friend Jim Quick, and the newfound friends she made at Ennoble, including her roommate Kathy O’Brien.

The family extends its deep gratitude to all those who helped support and care for Donna. Your compassionate caregiving has given all of us more time with her, an unforgettable and immeasurable gift. Our profound thanks to the incredible staffs of Ennoble, Mercy Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque. A special thank you to Doctors Katherine Parker and Jennifer Mohr, for all you have done to help Donna.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Hospice of Dubuque, with our thanks, and accompanied by Donna’s beautiful smile and easy laugh.

Robert J. Koster

Robert “Bob” Joseph Koster, 62, of Dubuque, IA passed away at 10:00 A.M. on October 30th, 2020 at Mercy One hospital in Dubuque.

A public visitation will be from 2:00 until 6:00 P.M. on Thursday November 5th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque. A memorial service with Deacon John Stierman and military honors by the American Legion Post # will follow at 6:00p.m.

Bob was born on November 22nd, 1957 in Dubuque, IA the son of Benjamin and Mary (Duehr) Koster. He attended Holy Ghost Catholic grade school, Hempstead High School, and NICC in Peosta. Robert served his country in the United Stated Army from 1975 until 1978 and on July 26, 1980 married Sharon Genz.

Bob will be remembered for so many things: his living life to the fullest, his sense of humor, his “Bobisms” as he sure had a way with words, his love of sports especially the Chicago Cubs, Iowa Hawkeyes, and most notably the Pittsburgh Steelers. He shared his love of baseball with the “Little Guy” (Jayden) and enjoyed many summers at the ballpark watching him play.

Bob loved to cook and shared his food with everyone. He showed his love by sharing his food, especially with his many friends at the Northside. Bob couldn’t wait for a good potluck. He loved to eat out at local restaurants and rarely missed Sunday and Wednesday breakfast with Bob and Darlene. He loved his daily rides to the river and had to go every morning at 10:00 AM so he could meet Bill. Bob will especially be remembered as a devoted husband, a wonderful “Mr. mom” to two beautiful daughters and the best “Papa” to the awesome “Little Guy”. Bob loved many and was loved by many in return. He made sure the important people in his life were taken care of. Bob left his life as he lived it – on his terms. Cheers to Bob!

He is survived by his wife Sharon (Genz) Koster; two Beautiful daughters; Jill (Michael) Becker of Lee’s Summit Mo., and Jodie Koster of Dubuque; one amazing “Little Guy” grandson Jayden Bremer of Dubuque; his dog Dusty and cat Wrigley; family friend Kody Callahan; two sisters, Cheryl Gaul of Worthington, IA and Linda Koster Packer of Stoughton, MA., two brothers; Randy (Sue) Koster, and Dale Koster of Dubuque.

Preceded in death by his parents, Ben and Mary Koster; his sister Joyce and his brother Dan; one niece Wrendy; nephews Jason and Kevin; brothers-in-law Leon Gaul, and Jim Packer.

Memorials may be left to the Veterans Affairs of Dubuque, IA

The family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire and EMS, Mercy One ER staff, Veterans Affairs, especially Dr. Hinnen and Nurse Rachel of Dubuque VA Clinic.

Marian J. Taylor

Marian Josephine Taylor, age 90, of Bloomington, WI, was granted her greatest wish when she was called on by her Heavenly Father from the comfort of her own home on Monday, November 2, 2020.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2020 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Bloomington with Fr. John Meinholz and Fr. Bart Timmerman officiating. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Cemetery, Bloomington. Family and friends may call on Friday, November 6, 2020 from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at the church, where a parish Rosary will be prayed in Marian’s honor at 10:45 a.m. The Martin Schwartz Funeral Home and Crematory in Bloomington is entrusted with her services.

She was the daughter of Joseph and Barbara Lorenz, born in Prairie du Chien, WI, on December 27, 1929. Marian attended grade school at St. John’s Catholic School and Prairie du Chien High School where she graduated in 1947.

Marian met Lyle “Tinker” Taylor while dancing at the Checkerboard Ballroom. They were married on June 9, 1951 at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church in Prairie du Chien. Marian and Lyle were blessed with 10 children and purchased the Economy Feed Mill in 1964.

Marian was a devout Catholic and even though dementia took many things from Marian, she was able to remember her prayers each night. Faith and family were the foundation of Marian’s life. She was committed to volunteering at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and School. Marian was an active member of the Grandparents and Prayer Partners programs and was well known as the “Fluoride lady” for many years. Marian never missed mass and was a dedicated Eucharistic Minister and a large supporter of the St. Mary’s Parish Players. Over the years, Marian donated gallons of blood to her local community. She also did not miss an opportunity to support her grandchildren and great-grandchildren by attending endless baptisms, weddings, graduations, and birthday parties. Marian loved playing cards and was a wicked cribbage player. She enjoyed taking bus trips and going to watch a show with friends and family. And Marian was the #1 potato peeler at Ma’s Bakery! Marian loved nothing more than her family and was a very dedicated mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

Marian is survived by her children: Debby (Chuck) Kratochwill, Terry Forst, Gwen (Mark) Herbers, Sue Breuer, Roger (Mary) Taylor, Bob (Julie) Taylor, Rodney (Carla) Taylor, Mary (Kurt) Adrian, and Jim (Jen) Taylor; 32 grandchildren; 38 great-grandchildren; a sister-in-law, Dorothy Taylor; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Marian was preceded in death by her husband, Lyle “Tinker” Taylor; her daughter, Diane Guanella; her sister, Rita (Louie) Horkheimer, her brother Joe (Ethel) Lorenz, a brother-in-law, Allan Taylor; and her godson, Bill Horkheimer.

A special thank you to Pam Myhre, APNP and Crossing Rivers Health Center for the wonderful care you provided to Marian over the years. And to all the family and friends for their love, support and care that enabled us to keep Marian at home all these years, especially to Mary Zenz, Nancy Mumm, Carrie Hochausen, Karen Marshall, Sheila Eastman, Sara Hampton and Sam Pulvermacher.

A prayer that Marian said each and every morning to start her day:

“Lord grant me strength to meet this day;
Please take my hand and lead the way.
Teach me trust and patience too,
In daily tasks which I must do.
When I may falter hear my prayer,
Strength is knowing You are there.”

Online Condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com