Obituaries Archive

Howard A. McLean

Howard Allan McLean, 86, of Dubuque, went home to be with the Lord Friday, November 29, 2019, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM Saturday, December 7, 2019, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2155 University Avenue. The Memorial Service for Howard will be 11:00 AM Saturday, December 7, 2019, at Westminster Presbyterian Church with Pastor Loren Shellabarger officiating.  Burial will be at a later date in Buckingham Cemetery Traer, IA.

Howard was born November 20, 1933, in State Center, IA, the son of Philip Packer and Lucile Agnes Goecke McLean. On December 23, 1955, he married the love of his life, Dorothy Joyce Vanicek in Traer, Iowa.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving as a Corporal while stationed in Korea and Japan.

He graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry.

Howard spent his career in the meat packing industry in various roles including cattle buyer, salesman, plant manager, eventually rising to senior management.  His career took him to a number of states such as Iowa, Ohio, Kansas,  Colorado, and Texas, winding up in Dubuque where he retired.

He was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church and was very active with the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. He was a huge Iowa State Cyclones fan, enjoyed golfing, and traveling with his wife, Dorothy.

Survivors include his wife, Dorothy; three daughters, Debra (Michael) Dishberger of Houston, TX, Susan (Richard) McLean-Neufeld of Fairfax, IA, and Laura (Timothy) Hull of Louisburg, KS; one son, Robert McLean, of Chicago, IL; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

The family thanks all the neighbors for their support and care.

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

Theodore M. Blanchard

Theodore Martin “Ted” Blanchard, age 75, passed away at his home in Dubuque, Iowa on Wednesday, November 27, 2019 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 14, 1944 in Lima, Ohio to Theodore and Genevieve (O’Brien) Blanchard. On June 14, 1969 Ted was married to his loving wife Marilyn Lee (Boblitt) Blanchard.

An alumni of Loras College, Ted earned his B.A. in Political Science. He went on to graduate from Indiana University with a Master of Science degree in School Administration. Ted worked as both an educator and in administration. Early in his career, he taught at Whittier Elementary in Lima, Ohio and Hoover Elementary in Dubuque. He went on to serve as the Principal for both Prescott and Audubon Schools before taking positions as Executive Director of Human Resources for the Dubuque Community School District and Vice President of Human Resources at Finley Hospital. Through a life-long commitment to the community of Dubuque, Ted volunteered his time and energy to many organizations and causes: He served on the Board of Directors for the Dubuque Arts Council, Camp Albrecht Acres, and Bethany Home, and was a member the Nativity Parish Council, the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club International as well as many others. Ted’s real gift to the world was his life-long resilience in the face of adversity and his uncanny ability to reach people in deep and positive ways through the art of conversation and encouragement.

Ted loved spending time with his family and friends, travelling, and caring for the environment by planting trees. Some of his favorite times out and about were to watch his grandchildren participate in sports, music, and dance and having lunch with friends; he also enjoyed attending concerts with his wife, especially outdoor performances at the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens.

Ted is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn, of 50 years; three children, Chad (Beth)of Dubuque, Drew (Shari) of Milwaukee, WI, and Suzanne (Dave) of Steamboat Springs, CO; five grandchildren, Ezra, Jacob, Annabel, Aaron, & Sam; six siblings, David (Jane) of Walnut Creek, CA., Kevin (Sharon) of Palm Bay, FL., Matthew of Lima, OH., Mark (Donna) of Defiance, OH, Stephen (Melinda) of Lima, OH., Bridget of Bowling Green, OH.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Genevieve and sister, Katherine (Blanchard) Swager.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday December 2, 2019, at the Church of the Nativity, where a parish wake service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, at the church until time of mass. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 3rd, 2019 at the Church of the Nativity. with Rev. Andy Upah officiating. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, The Dubuque Arts Council, Camp Albrecht Acres, Hospice of Dubuque, Mary’s Inn Maternity Home.

Special Thank You: Dr. J. Fernando Queveda and his care team, and the Mayo Clinic; Dr. Mark Herman and his care teams at Grand River Medical; the care team at Hospice of Dubuque.

David C. Kirsch

David C. Kirsch, 64, of Dyersville passed away from complications related to leukemia on November 28, 2019, with his family at his side at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Tuesday, December 3, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 4, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa.  Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.  A private family burial will be held at a later date.

Dave was born November 25, 1955, in Dubuque, the son of John & Grace (Bockenstedt) Kirsch.  He married his high school sweetheart, Judy Fitzgerald, on October 27, 1979, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica.

Dave will be remembered for his witty one-liners, his inquisitive nature & seeking out fun no matter the occasion.  He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially time spoiling his grandkids.  Dave loved playing and watching baseball & golf and was an avid fisherman.  Earlier this year, Dave checked skydiving off his bucket list with his son while vacationing in the Florida Keys.  Dave was also a fan of the Chicago Cubs & the Indianapolis Colts.  Dave was “living the dream” after he had retired as the CEO of Three Rivers FS after 39 years of service with the company.

Left to continue blaring good tunes on Alexa are his wife of 40 years, Judy; his children Kerri (Mike) Kramer of Dyersville, Brian Kirsch of Burlington, Krista, “Girl” (John) Dow of Davenport. He was a very proud papa to Julien, Jude “Judge”, Sylvia Kramer and Eliza, “Little Z” Dow; his mother, Grace Kirsch of Dyersville; siblings: Selena Omega, Carmen Burns, Linda (Dan Snyder) Kirsch, Charlie (Teresa) Kirsch, Rob (Tiffany) Kirsch; in-laws: Jayne Fitzgerald, Brad (Brenda) Fitzgerald, Jill Schneck, Barry (Gena) Fitzgerald, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Kirsch; his brother, Nick Kirsch; his parents-in-law, Robert & Sylvia Fitzgerald.

The family would like to thank Dr. Margarida Silverman and her team for their efforts over the last several months and all of his amazing nurses at UIHC for their compassionate care.

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

Dallas W. Belken

Dallas W. “Snoz” Belken, 78, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at Mercy One-Dyersville Medical Center at 1:36 p.m. on Thursday, November 28, 2019 following a sudden illness.

Private family services and visitation will be Monday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with Pastor Matt Collins officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Snoz was born on September 18, 1941 in East Dubuque, the son of Clem G. and Luella M. (Hilby) Belken.  He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 1959.

He was united in marriage to JoAnn Fluhr on February 3, 1962 at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, IL.  Snoz was employed by John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works until his retirement in October of 1996.

He was a member of U.A.W. Local # 94, a former member of the East Dubuque Volunteer Fire Dept.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, golf, the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears and a huge Notre Dame Football fan. Snoz was extremely proud of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving is his wife JoAnn; four children, Robin (Mark) Place of East Dubuque, Dan (Carla) Belken of Cuba City, WI, Mike (Paula) Belken of Menominee, IL and Tracie (Brent) Diddens of Dyersville, IA; 13-grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren, with two on the way; his siblings, Delbert J. (Ruth) Belken and Donald J. (Lois) Belken both of East Dubuque, Gerald “Jake” (Julie) Belken of Menominee, Helen “Heidi” (Francis) Vosberg of Louisburg, WI, Joyce Ann Vaassen of Dickeyville, WI, and Joan (Jeff) Wieser of White Bear Lake, MN; and his in-laws, Dave & Bonnie Fluhr and Mary Fluhr of East Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clem and Luella Belken, in-laws, Dennis Vaassen, Tom (Mary) Fluhr and Ken Fluhr, his father-in-law and mother-in-law Joseph and Anna Fluhr.

Online condolences maybe left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.

Donna M. Koob

Donna M. (Bowling) Koob, age 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 5:58 p.m., on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Donna’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m., until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, December 2, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 3:45 p.m.  To honor Donna’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, December 3, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.   Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Donna was born on November 17, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Viola (Oberbroeckling) Bowling.

Donna was a life-long resident of Dubuque where she graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1965.  She was united in marriage to the love of her life, James Koob, on June 10, 1978, in Dubuque.  They were blessed with 11 years together, and 1 beautiful daughter, before Jim was called home ahead of her on July 24, 1989.  Donna was a very dedicated employee who spent 22 years with the Sisters at Mt. Carmel.  Donna had several past times including spending time outside tending to her gorgeous flower gardens and going antiquing.  The more primitive the antique treasure she found the happier she was to take it home with her to give it a new life.  Donna was also an extremely talented quilter, creating countless pieces for family and friends, as well as for the Linus Project, which gives blankets to less fortunate children to offer them warmth and emotional support.  Beyond a doubt, the one aspect that brought the most joy into Donna’s days was her family.  She had a special bond with her daughter Kelli, and her delight was undeniable as she welcomed her granddaughter, Olivia, into the world this past October.  We are deeply saddened at losing our wonderful mom, grandma, sister and friend, and words can never truly express how much we loved her and will miss her.  We love you Donna, and know that you will always be watching over us from your Heavenly home!

Those left to cherish Donna’s memory include

her daughter,
Kelli (and her husband Rob Hammel) Koob, Chicago, IL;

her granddaughter,
Olivia Jane;

her step-son,
Cary (Claudia) Koob, Chesterfield, MI;

her step-granddaughter,
Bryanna Koob;

her siblings,
Shirley Klostermann, Epworth, IA,
Beverly (Paul) Lane, Dubuque, IA,
John Bowling, N. Dartmouth, MA,
Deb (Marc) McKenna, Page AZ,
Richard (Sara) Bowling, Boise, ID,
Tom (Lori) Bowling, Andrew, IA
and Diann (Richard) Breithaupt, Dubuque, IA;

and her in-laws,
Richard (Grace) Koob, Dubuque, IA,
Robert (Connie) Koob, Normangee, TX,
Pat (Darlene) Koob, Washington State,
David (Alice) Koob, Maquoketa, IA,
Joan Koppes, Cascade, IA
and Jerry (Janice) Koob, Cascade, IA.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents, John and Viola Bowling; her husband, James Koob; her sister, June (Jim) Coggin; her in-laws, Ray and Leona Koob; 2 sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Keegan and Deb Bowling; and a brother-in-law, Robert Klostermann.

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

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

Bernette F. Kauffmann

Bernette F. (Knabel) Kauffmann, age 82, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:29 p.m., on Wednesday, November 27, 2019, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Bernette’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 1, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 12:45 p.m. To honor Bernette’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, December 2, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Mark Kwenin officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Bernette was born on June 27, 1937, in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Frank and Josephine (Hochrein) Knabel.

Bernette would marry the love of her life, Maurice “Hap” Kauffmann, on June 21, 1960, at Sacred Heart Church and together they would work the farm and raise 5 children.  Sadly, Hap was called home ahead of Bernette earlier this year on March 16, 2019, after 58 years of marriage.  She was a devoted wife and mom who took great pride in caring for her family.  Bernette would plant a large garden every year and would put the fruits of her labor to good use in the kitchen, always busy canning, cooking and baking.  She especially loved spoiling her grandkids and had plenty of ice cream, cookies and treats for them to enjoy.  Bernette also created beautiful needlepoint, embroidery and crochet projects which will be cherished by her family for years to come.  She always made time for a good card game, lunch outings with long-time friends, casino visits or shopping trips with family and friends.  Bernette’s faith was also a very important part of her daily life and was evidenced by her long time membership with Holy Ghost Church and the Catholic Order of Foresters.  She and Hap were also strong supporters of family farms and were members of the Dubuque County Farm Bureau.  We are deeply saddened at losing Bernette in our daily lives, she was a kind, sweet, gentle and hard working woman, the kind they just don’t make anymore.  We are however, able to take some comfort in knowing that she is now happily reunited with her beloved Hap and that together they will be celebrating Christmas in Heaven this year.

“Just remember that I need you, the best of me is gone.  Please don’t fail to stand beside me, love me ‘til my life is gone”. – Owen Darnell

Those left to cherish Bernette’s memory include

her children,
Thomas (Pam) Kauffmann, Sherrill, IA,
Donald Kauffmann, Sherrill, IA,
Sharon (Tom) Kramer, Dubuque, IA,
William (Kelly) Kauffmann, Dubuque, IA
and James (Amy) Kauffmann, Epworth, IA;

her 14 grandchildren;
T.J. (Teri), Ken (Gaby), Amanda, Jeff, Joe, Randy, Jason (Mackenzie) and Alex Kauffmann, Alex and Abbie Lenton and John, Liza, Brad and Anna Kramer;

her 5 great-grandchildren;
Brayden, Alaina, Owen, Ashlynn and McCoy;

a brother-in-law,
Roger Kauffmann, Dubuque, IA;

and a sister-in-law,
Mary Margaret Kauffmann, Denver, CO.

Bernette was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Maurice “Hap” Kauffmann; a daughter-in-law, Linda Kauffmann; a brother, Merlyn (Ginny) Knabel; and her in-laws, Mary (Wilford) Bradshaw, Phillip (Delores) Kauffmann, Bert Kauffmann, Robert (Pearl) Kauffmann and Joyce (Don) Nemmers.

We were blessed with countless years of Mom caring for us and our families, when the roles were reversed due to Alzheimer’s, we did exactly what Mom would have done and will miss her more than words can say. We extend our sincere gratitude to her many caregivers, especially Susan, Sue, Reagan, Kay, Luther Homecare and St. Croix Hospice for helping us through this difficult journey as well as Jim and Hilda Dupont for their continued friendship and support.

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

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

Thomas L. Hildebrand

Thomas Leo “Tom” Hildebrand, 71, of Dubuque, died suddenly Thursday, November 28, 2019, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 6:00 PM Sunday, December 1, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Tom will be 10:00 AM Monday, December 2, 2019, St. Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Tom was born December 7, 1947, in Farley, IA, the son of Albert and Mary Miller Hildebrand. On October 25, 1969, he married Elaine Kraus at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, IA.  It gave Tom much joy to recently celebrate 50 years of marriage to the love of his life, Elaine.

He worked as a machine operator for Flexsteel Industries and did maintenance work at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister and brought communion to the homebound for many years, and helped with Bingo.  Tom was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He cherished time with family and friends and loved nothing more than a good game of Dominoes or Euchre.

Survivors include his wife, Elaine; five daughters, Kathy (Kurt) Wuertzer of Dubuque, Shelly (Mike) Miller of Dubuque, Jody (Eric) Olson of Galena, IL, Jenny Hildebrand of Dubuque, and Tina (Keith) Krabbenhoft of Dubuque; one son, Phil (Julie) Hildebrand of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Christopher and Emily Wuertzer, Hannah Miller, Maxwel and Molly Hildebrand, and Megan, Joshua, and Allison Krabbenhoft; six sisters, Mary Milligan of Dubuque, Cathy (Roger) Bartels of Durango, Verna (Vesse) Klostermann of Edgewood, Carol (Dave) Gaul of Guttenberg, Norma (Dick) Kelchen of Farley, and Joyce Hildebrand of Dubuque; three brothers, Steve Hildebrand of Dyersville, Rick (Donna) Hildebrand of Raleigh, NC, and Albert Jr. (Kelly) Hildebrand of Dixon, IL; in-laws, Elaine (Dave) Shaw of Springville, IA, Helen Hildebrand of Holy Cross, Helen Hildebrand of Bankston, Phyllis Hildebrand of Dyersville, Paul (Joyce) Wagner of Dubuque, Jean Nauman of Cascade, Jim (Sue) Kraus of Cuba City, WI, Willy (Norma) Kraus of Dubuque, Mary (Duane) Kruse of Dubuque, and John (Cheryl) Kraus of Galesburg, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and Gladys, four brothers, Robert, Jerry, Lenny, and Loras Hildebrand, two sisters, Ruth Wagner, and Gladys Gaul.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Donald Eigenberger

Donald “Zeke” Eigenberger, 78, of Dubuque, died peacefully Tuesday, November 26, 2019, with his family by his side.

The funeral service for Mr. Eigenberger will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, November 30, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Rev. Father Mark Kwenin as the officiant. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM.

Don was born May 2, 1941, in Dubuque, the son of Donald and Mary Lou Wittstock Eigenberger. On July 26, 1961, he married Mary Jo Ricketts at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque.

He was a mechanic for the bus garage for Interstate Power Company and then Packing House through its changes until it closed its doors.

Don was a hard working man and great provider for his family. He was a loving, supportive husband and a truly wonderful, caring dad. His grandkids were the twinkle in his eye. You could find Don at his favorite spot, the Airport Inn with his friends watching the Green Bay Packers and NASCAR races. He took pride in his “toys”, his Harley, IROC, and his Chevy truck. He leaves us saying “Youll C”.

Survivors include his wife, Mary Jo of Dubuque; one daughter, Deb Minnick of Dubuque; two sons, John Eigenberger and Ron Eigenberger, both of Dubuque; two grandchildren, Danielle (TJ) Burghy, and Jakob Eigenberger; two great-granddaughters, Elliana and Paislee, and one great-grandson on the way; two sisters, MaryLynn (Rick) Donovan of Dubuque, and Sherrie (Marty) Werner of East Dubuque, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and son John Alfred in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family sends out a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Crestridge Nursing Home and to Hospice of Jackson County for the special care they gave to Don.

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

Willaura P. Keil

Willaura P. “Billie” Keil, 92, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, November 26, 2019, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, November 30, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. until 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Willaura Pearl Williams was born on July 28, 1927 in Marion, Iowa, to Marvin and Sarah (Kramer) Williams. She moved to Maquoketa at age 6 and was a 1945 graduate of Maquoketa High School. She married Wesley W. “Wes” Keil on April 21, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union 3 sons were born, Gary, Kevin and Brent.

“Billie” was a housewife who in her early years had worked at the Fishing Tackle Company in Maquoketa as an inspector, and at Clinton Engines in the service department.

She enjoyed traveling, reading, flowers, walking and any outdoor activities. Additionally, she enjoyed following her children and grandchildren’s school and sporting events. She was a longtime volunteer and member of the Jackson County Historical Society, and a 70-year member of the First United Methodist in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor her memory include her sons, Gary (Vickie) Keil of Davenport, IA, Kevin (Janet) Keil of DeWitt, IA, and Brent Keil of Camanche; 7 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren; a sister, June (Virgil) Roeder of Tucson, AZ; and sisters-in-law, Laurel Williams of Preston, IA, and Darlene Cook of Maquoketa, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Wes of 64 years on April 28, 2010, and brothers Jack Williams and Allan Cook.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, Hills and Dales, or Strides for Clinton County Autism.

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

Rita M. Palen

Rita Mary Palen, 95, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, November 13, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 16, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd. Rev. Tom Heathershaw will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, November 15, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., where there will be a prayer service at 2:30 p.m.

Rita was born March 21, 1924 in Dubuque, the daughter of Carl and Evelyn (Stillmunks) Schrup. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy. In 1946, Rita married Harold Palen in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on November 26, 1993.

Rita was a member of Resurrection parish, where she was also a member of the Rosary Society. Rita was a Gold Star Mom; On January 3, 1971, Rita and Harold’s son Tony was MIA in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. Rita then joined the National League of POW-MIA Families from Southeast Asia; and remained a member. She was employed as a bookkeeper for O’Toole Office Supply for 16 years, until her retirement in 1981. She enjoyed reading and gardening. Rita was a wonderful grandmother; and will be sadly missed.

Rita is survived by two sons, John (Joann) Palen of Pardeeville, WI, and David (Elaine) Palen of Dubuque; four grandchildren, Jacob (Mia) Palen of Dubuque, Joseph (Megan) Palen of Dubuque; Nicholas (Andraya) Palen of Beaver Dam, WI, and Benjamin Palen of Pardeeville, WI; five great grandchildren; three sisters, Evelyn “Dee Dee” Stieber of Dubuque, Karen (Mike) Pauly of Winterset, IA and Mary Kay “Shatzie” Speak of Davenport; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her beloved husband, Rita was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Carl “Tony” Palen; and her sisters, Dorothy Brown, Arlys Runde, Sally Ann Ryan and Elizabeth Schrup in infancy.

Memorials may be made to the family.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Hawkeye Care Center for their care.

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

Leon W. Bleile

Leon William Bleile, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on November 25, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 2, 2019 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Steven Garner officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery with full military honors by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, December 1, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 5:30 p.m.

Leon was born on September 21, 1933 in Balltown, Iowa, the son of Victor and Margaret (Heber) Bleile. He served in the US Army from 1955 to 1957 in Germany and received an honorable discharge. On February 15, 1958 he married Marie C. Wagner at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville.

He worked for the former Dubuque Packing Company and FDL Foods until retirement. After retirement he worked at Medical Associates where he was known as the Tootsie Roll Man. He was a member of the UFCW Local 150 A and a very active member Sacred Heart Parish, where he was a member of the Holy Name Society.

Leon was also known for his homemade caramel candies. He enjoyed gardening and he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Marie; children, Deb (Scott) Patton, of Nevada, Iowa, Bob (Jodee) Bleile, of Asbury, Don (Roselle) Bleile, of Angleton, Texas, and Karen (Harry) Pitzen, of Potosi, WI. Grandchildren, Madaline Patton, Haileigh Patton, Katie (Nick) Steffen, Chris (Jessica) Bleile, Kourtnee (Jude) Smith, Steven Bleile, Taylor Bleile and Richard Menadue; seven great grandchildren, several step grandchildren and great grandchildren. Siblings, Dolores Reinert, Cletus (Sally) Bleile, and Margaret Heiderscheit; his sisters & brothers-in-law Betty (Jim) Barth, Paul (Joyce) Wagner, Carol (Rick) Smith and Gene Boge.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Delbert Bleile and Raphael (Anna Mae) Bleile; his father and mother-in-law Elmer and Madaline Wagner; brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles Reinert, Kenneth Heiderscheit, David (Rosie Boge) Wagner, Ruth Wagner, Janet and Joe Bleile along with three nephews and one niece.

The family wishes to thank all the health care professionals, the staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque especially Paul, and to their family and friends for all their care, kindness and love shown to Leon and his family.

Marilyn Joyce Clark

Marilyn Joyce “Granny” Clark, 81, of Dubuque, and formerly of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Monday, November 25, 2019, at her home.

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:30 P.M., Monday, December 2, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 1:30 P.M. until 2:30 P.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Marilyn Joyce McCutcheon was born on April 8, 1938 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Ervin John and Myrl Marie (Miller) McCutcheon. She attended Maquoketa schools. She married Floyd L. “Pete” Clark on July 21, 1956 in Keokuk, Iowa. He preceded her in death on November 6, 2014.

Joyce was a housewife and later in life worked part-time jobs at Subway in Maquoketa and as a custodian for the Delwood Elementary School.

She enjoyed camping, fishing, reading, crosswords and crocheting.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Cindy Holdsworth of Dubuque, IA, Dennis (Mary) Clark of Maquoketa, IA, Craig (JoAnn) Clark of Onslow, IA, Bryan (Sarah) Clark of Delmar, IA, Teresa (Ron) Grandick of Delmar, IA, and Stacie Bowling of Goose Lake, IA; sister, Mildred Wilcox of Baldwin, IA; brother, Ronald (Linda) Miller of Rock Island, IL; 26 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren (with 2 on the way).

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother Donald McCutcheon, sisters Marcella Dorsey and Lorraine Makeever, and a great-grandchild Maddy.
In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marilyn Joyce “Granny” Clark memorial fund has been established.

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

James Richard Woods

James Richard “Ricky” Woods, 59, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Sunday, November 24, 2019 at Sunnycrest Manor.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, November 30, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Dan Bridges officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, November 29th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Ricky was born on April 19, 1960 in Ashland, Kentucky. He worked for Area Residential Care for many years and was a resident at the Beacon Hill Group Home. He later moved to Sunnycrest Manor where he became part of their family.

God has a new Angel in Heaven to look over us and protect us.

He is survived by his mother Sheila Woods, of Zwingle, a sister Barbara (Dave) Weldon, of Danville, KY, a brother Charles “Chuck” (Luann) Woods, of Prairie du Sac, WI. Many nieces in nephews in Kentucky and Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his father Charles Woods; a brother Terry Woods, his paternal grandparents in Kentucky Richard and Irene Woods, and his grandparents in Dubuque, Joe and Eileen Bellings.

Memorials may be given to Area Residential Care or Sunnycrest Manor.

The family would like to thank the nurses, staff and residents of Sunnycrest Manor for all their care, kindness and making Ricky a part of their family.

Jay R. Hanken

Jay R. Hanken, 67, of Monticello, passed away unexpectedly.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, 2019, at SS Peter and Paul Lutheran Church of Castle Grove, with burial in Prairie Hill Cemetery. Rev. Holly Knouse will officiate.

Jay was born December 29, 1951, in Monticello, the son of Wesley and Nedra (Kromminga) Hanken. He graduated from Springville High School with the Class of 1970 and from Iowa State University in 1975. He married Cindy Rowen on August 23, 1975, in Anamosa and raised 4 children together. Jay was a self-employed contractor in the Monticello area for nearly 40 years.

Dirt track racing, gardening and his grandchildren were his passions and he was known for legendary shenanigans. He also liked a good poker game and good music.

Survivors include his mother, Nedra Hanken of Monticello, children: Garett (Jenny) Hanken and Gabriel Hanken, both of Monticello, Whitney Hanken of Cedar Rapids and Kaelor Hanken of Iowa City, their mother, Cindy Hanken of Monticello, 3 grandchildren: Olyvia, Waylon and Rosa Hanken; siblings: W. Chris (Lin) Hanken of Maquoketa, Cynthia (John) Coy of Wintergreen, VA, Jeffrey (Sharon) Hanken of Cedar Rapids, and Beth Hanken of Monticello; a sister-in-law, Bobbi (Mark) Ball of Anamosa.

He was preceded in death by his father, Wesley Hanken, two grandchildren, Anton and Brooks Hanken; parents-in-law, Robert and Rosa Rowen, a sister-in-law, Terri Vanek.

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

Shirley M. Ackley

Shirley M. Ackley, 92, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Guttenberg, IA, passed away on Monday, November 25, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center, where she was fondly known as Sassy Shirley.

Memorial services will be held at a later date to be announced.

Shirley was born on August 25, 1927 at Stanhope, IA, the daughter of Leo and Ruth (Winburn) Philp. She was united in marriage to Glenn Ackley on May 26, 1945. To this union six children were born.

Shirley loved animals of any kind!

Surviving are two sons, Terry (Arlene) Ackley and Rick (Dianne) Ackley both of Dubuque, IA, three daughters, Robin (Eric) Kelso of Huntsville, AL, Cindy (Fred) Ginnetti of Phoenix, AZ, and Jamie (George) Baker of Burlington, IA; 13 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and 4 great- great grandchildren; a step-son, Gary (Rusty) Duenow, and son-in-law, Dave Schmitt.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Glenn on November 24, 1995, a daughter Sue Schmitt on September 9, 2013, a grandson Eric Schmitt at 6 months; and two brothers.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is serving the family.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.