Obituaries Archive

Carol M. Diews

Carol Marguerite Diews, 84, of Galena, died Saturday, Oct. 17, 2020, at the Galena-Stauss Nursing Home, a casualty of the Covid-19 Pandemic. A graveside service will take place at 1 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28 at Acacia Park Cemetery, 7800 W. Irving Park Rd., Norridge, Ill. Face masks will be required and social distancing protocols observed.

She was born on October 8, 1936 in Oak Park, Ill., to Paul F. and Ada (Miller) Diews. She grew up on Chicago’s northwest side and graduated from Carl Schurz High School in 1954. She enjoyed a long career as an accountant with the Chicago area apartment rental agency, Preston A. Higgins & Co., Inc.

Among Galena’s first recipients of a mortgage for historic restoration, Carol and her brother Robert purchased an 1830s inn in the early 1960s, and transformed it into a beautiful weekend home, which the Galena/Jo Daviess Historical Society twice featured on its house tours. After retirement, it became her year-round residence.

An avid reader and patron of the Galena Public Library, Carol volunteered many years with the library’s Friends group sorting books for its annual sale. She was a world traveler who was among the earliest Americans to visit China when it opened to Western tourists in the early 1960s, and she visited Russia before and after the fall of the Soviet Union. Her journeys also took her throughout North and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Africa, too. When not reading or packing a suitcase, she could often be found glued to her TV cheering the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears.

A dog lover particularly fond of Schnauzers, her other hobbies included gardening, playing cards and word games. She had no children of her own, but anyone close to her was treated as a member of her “family.” She never missed sending them birthday greetings.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and brother. She leaves no survivors.

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

Memorials in Carol’s name are requested for the Galena Public Library (www.galenalibrary.org).

Her friends and neighbors would like to thank the staff at Galena-Stauss Assisted Living and Nursing Home for the wonderful, loving care they gave Carol.

Bernice M. Edwards

Bernice Marie Edwards, 93, of Galena, IL, passed away on Monday, October 19, 2020, at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Galena. The funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday with Pastor Blake Shipman officiating. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery in Galena. Facemasks and social distancing will be required due to Covid-19.

Bernice was born on July 3, 1927, in Galena, IL, daughter of Richard & Frieda (Kienzle) Schmid, the eleventh of sixteen children.

Bernice married Robert ‘Bud’ Edwards on November 12, 1949 in Dubuque, IA, and they went on to make a wonderful life for themselves in Galena, IL, raising 3 girls. Bud, Bernice, and the girls spent many years enjoying boating and camping on the river making memories with lifelong friends and family. Bud preceded her in death on April 8, 1990.

Bernice was known for being a hard worker. She spent most of her adult life employed at the Galena Stauss Hospital & Nursing Home and then once retired, continued working by taking care of others. Bernice was a member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church and the Ruth Circle, and spent many years volunteering her time and making blankets for those in need.

Bernice was one of a kind. She was generous, known for her kindness and willingness to help anyone who needed it, and a fun-loving person who liked to have a good time. Whether it was dressing up for Halloween or cracking a joke or two – you could count on Bernice for a laugh.

Bernice enjoyed the simple things in life. Like, a hot cup of coffee and a good piece of bread, a nice cold beer with good company, listening to Lawrence Welk or polka music, playing scrabble, doing crossword puzzles, reading, scouring garage sales for a good bargain, and of course, spending time with those she loved. The little things in life – that’s what was important to her.

Those left to cherish Bernice’s memory include her daughters, Diane (Richard) Schieltz of Luxemburg, IA, Judy Edwards of Galena, IL, and Joanne Piquett of Lemont, IL; her grandchildren, Jason (Tammy) Schieltz of Luxemburg, IA, Cory (Lesley) Schieltz of Marion, IA, Kari (Matt) Nickol of Farley, IA, Kelly (Kevin) Burberry of Lemont, IL, and Jessica (Carson) Walker of St. Louis Park, MN; her great-grandchildren, Claire & Grant Schieltz, Chloe & Ellie Schieltz, Gavin & Marcela Nickol, Will, Ben & Charlotte Burberry; her sister, Elsie McNett of Freeport, IL; her sister-in-law, Julie Schmid of Schapville, IL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert ‘Bud’ Edwards; son-in-law, John Piquett; nine brothers, Albert, Carl, Herman, Clarence, Ernie, Ray, Elmer, Frank & Richard Jr; and five sisters, Clara, Florence, Hattie, Norma, and Edna.

Bernice’s family wishes to give special thanks to the nurses and staff at the Galena-Stauss Senior Care Community for the wonderful care provided to their mother and grandmother.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family. The funeral will be live-streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook Page.

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

James S. Green

James Stephen Green, age 91 , of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Friday, October 16th,  2020,  at Dubuque Specialty Care, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Jim’s life, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Father Steve Rosonke officiating.  Family and friends of Jim’s are invited to gather one hour prior to the service at the church. Everyone is requested to wear masks and social distance – as best we can. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery immediately following the service. Where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on February 15, 1929, in Cascade, IA, one of nine children to Stephen and Mildred (Herard) Green. He married Dorothea M. Hamel on August 28th, 1951, at St. Patrick’s Church. They were blessed with 64 wonderful years together before Dorothea was sadly called home ahead of him on May 5, 2016.

Jim attended Loras Academy and graduated from St. Columbkille’s School in 1947.  Jim proudly served as a member of the Army National Guard and was a true patriot who loved his country and flying the American Flag daily.  His 3 favorite days of the year were Veterans Day, St. Patrick’s Day, and his Birthday.

Jim’s claim to fame was owning and operating Green Auto Supply on Central Avenue for 34 years. It was a family owned and operated business which he took great pride in. Knowing that all of his customers knew him as the guy that would not stop until he got them the part they needed, no matter what.

“Love you dad “– “Love you too -sweetie”

Those left to cherish the memories of Jim include,

his children;
Patrick and Mary Sue Green,
Kathy Green,
and Julie and Mike Sullivan;

his grandchildren,
Theresa (Donny) Stephens, Adam Green, Ellen Green, Ryan (Ashley) Hardine, Joseph (Lindsay) Hardine, Megan (fiancé Michael Falkner) Sullivan, Matthew Sullivan, Kevin Sullivan, and Emily (Keith) Charles;

his great-grandchildren,
Ava June Hardine, Calvin Green, Morgan Johnson and Madison Johnson;

his in-laws,
Thomas (Jeanne) Hamel, William (Sharon) Hamel, and William Habel;

along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family, including Richard Esser, Evie (Jerry) Miller, Mary Lou Green.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his mother and father in-law, Joseph (Bertha) Hamel; his siblings, Leo J. ”Jay” (Rosie), Clarence “Shorty” (Lorraine), Milt “Moose, Jarlath “Lefty”, Thomas (Shirley),

Mary Habel, Kay (Pat) Petitgout, and Monica Ann; his in-laws, Joanne (Arnold) Kilburg and Shirley Hamel Ford; his nieces, Kelly Habel and Peggy Merfeld; his nephews, Chris Green and Thomas Green; and his extended dear family member, Barbara Esser.

We would like to thank Dubuque Specialty Care for taking care of dad thru this pandemic. They became his adopted family. Feeding, supporting, and humoring him thru these long days…he was their favorite “Dead Dog”. We also would like to thank Dr. Mark Runde and his staff, especially Julie, for their care for dad thru his many medical journeys.  Also, a very special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, who guided us thru dad’s final phase of life.

In honor of Jim’s life and legacy, memorials may be given to The Veterans Freedom Center of Dubuque, or the family.

Online condolences may be left for Jim’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

David F. Murray Sr.,

David F. “Dave” Murray Sr., age 66, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 1:10 p.m., on Sunday, October 18, 2020, at ManorCare Health Services. To celebrate Dave’s life, family and friends may visit from 12:00 noon until 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Due to the COVID-19 concerns all who attend will be required to wear a face covering. To honor Dave’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 2:00 p.m., on Sunday, October 25, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor John Emery officiating.

Dave was born on February 26, 1954, in Manchester, Iowa, son of Francis and Maybell (Cornwell) Murray.

Dave attended school at Prescott Elementary, Jefferson Middle School, and went to both Dubuque Senior and Hempstead High Schools. He was united in marriage to Vickie Rae Martelle on March 2, 1974, at United Methodist Church in Dubuque. Dave was employed with Dubuque Five Flags Center as a house crew chief for 18 years, until he had to retire due to health problems. In his spare time Dave enjoyed being out in the woods hunting and fishing, as well as camping and playing horseshoes. He was a very competitive card player, and was known to enjoy a nice cold beer with family and friends. Dave will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Dave’s memory include

his wife,
Vickie Murray, Dubuque, IA;

his 5 children,
David Murray Jr., Dubuque, IA,
Rob Murray, Dubuque, IA,
Matt (Shannon) Murray, Monroe, WI,
Amber Murray, Dubuque, IA
and Jonathan Murray, Jacksonville, FL;

his 6 grandchildren,
Brandon, Timothy, Merlin, Abigail Rose, Alex and Nessie;

his 11 siblings,
Sandra Murray, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Shirley (Richard) Kenny, Ryan, IA,
Marilyn (Chuck) Jones, Manchester, IA,
Betty (Larry) Hicks, Manchester, IA,
Brenda (Alan) Carper, Dyersville, IA,
Joyce (Greg) Trey, Strawberry Point, IA,
Bill (Joann) Murray, Ryan, IA,
Bob (Kim) Murray, Manchester, IA,
Frank Murray, Manchester, IA,
Mike (Kelley) Murray, Marion, IA
and Pat (Tanya) Murray, Manchester, IA;

and many nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; a sibling in infancy; and his in-laws.

Dave’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of ManorCare, especially John and Kim, and the Pastor from Center Grove Methodist Church, for all of their care and support these past months.

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

Bruce O. Blakeman

Bruce  Orland  Blakeman, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa  died October 20, 2020.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Survivors include two daughters, Tammy Hodges of Dubuque, Tanya (Steve) Anglin of Dubuque; one son, David (Tracy Carroll) Blakeman of Dubuque. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of the arrangements. To send condolences to Bruce’s family please visit www.hskfhcares.com

Louis M. Merfeld

Louis Michael Merfeld, 89, of Dubuque, died Monday, October 19, 2020, at Luther Manor.

A prayer service will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2020 at 4:00 pm at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home followed by visitation until 7:00 pm. Additional visitation will be held on Friday, October 23, 2020 from 11:00 am until the time of mass at 12:00 pm at Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. 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. 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 Louie’s family. Due to the city mask mandate, masks are required at the visitation and at the mass.

Louie was born June 4, 1931, in Cascade, IA, the son of Joseph and Mary Koob Merfeld. On November 15, 1954, he married Gladys M. Wolfe in St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War from August 12, 1952 until June 30, 1954.

He worked as a machinist at John Deere for 30 years.

Louie enjoyed woodworking, stock car races, fishing, camping, gardening, cards and bowling. It was said, “If something needed fixin’, take it to Louie.”

Survivors include his wife, Gladys, of Dubuque; one daughter, Sherry (Gary) Weiner of Dubuque; two sons, Steve Merfeld and Scott (Jodi Kartman) Merfeld, both of Dubuque; ten grandchildren, Ty (Amanda Brothers) Weiner, Cole (Jamie) Weiner, Braden (Nicole Ruchotzke) Weiner, Cody Weiner, Ashley (Thomas) Burns, Katie (John Droullard) Merfeld, Austin (Ariel) Merfeld and Connor (Cassie) Merfeld, Sarah Merfeld and Riley (Jessie) Merfeld, all of Dubuque; seven great-grandchildren, Cade Weiner, Cyler Weiner, Caylee Weiner, Cambree Weiner, Ellie Merfeld, Hudson Merfeld and Mateo Merfeld, all of Dubuque; two sisters, Ann Gudancauf of Ryan, IA and Theresa Drew of Cascade, IA; two brothers, Joe Merfeld, Jr. of Cascade, IA and Allan Merfeld of Rockford, IL; one brother-in-law, Dale Wolfe of Waverly; three sister-in-laws, Gayle (Bill) Dolphin of Cascade, IA, Jerry Merfeld of MI and Cheryl Merfeld of Rockford, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Rose Oswald and Mary Margaret Ahlers; three brothers, Carl Merfeld, Francis Merfeld and Robert Merfeld; in laws, Dode Merfeld, Earl Oswald, Larry Ahlers, Ralph Drew and Peggy Merfeld.

P.S. – To the dialysis girls, Louie says, “Keep smiling, because you always look better when you smile!”

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 Louie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Barbara Langenbach

Barbara “Oma” Langenbach, 96, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on October 14, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Steven Garner officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 27, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Please remember to social distance and wear your mask. A live stream of the funeral mass will be in the funeral homes Facebook page.

Barb was born on February 17, 1924 in Putna, Romania the daughter of Ferdinand and Theresia Romankiewicz. After the war Barb and Steve along with their three children, embarked on a life-changing journey; with the help of Catholic Charities and their sponsor, Leonard Bertsch & Family, they immigrated in 1951 by boat.

Barb worked at Rosheks Department Store and retired from Armstrong’s as the card and candy department manager. She belonged to the German Club, The Displaced Persons Club, Armstrong Retirees and Sacred Heart Church.

Barb loved to garden and took great pride in always keeping her yard looking the best. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was a wonderful cook, and every family member had their own favorite dish that “Oma” made. Barb also enjoyed her trips to the casino and took delight in entertaining us with her harmonica.

Barb was ever so grateful for her neighbors on Stafford Street and the many friends she and Steven made over the years.

Those left behind to cherish the memories of Barb include; her children Rudolph Langenbach and Elonka Bremer; her sister Hermine Winkelhoch of Germany; her grandchildren Lisa Langenbach-Marcello, Erika Langenbach, Rudy (Julia) Langenbach, Natalie (Dan) Hosch, Elena (David) Miller, Stephanie (Elias) Chedid, Jeff (Michelle) Langenbach, and Jenni (Michael) Groh; twenty one great grandchildren and seven great great grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Steven; brother Ambrose Romankiewicz; sisters Frieda Yosch and Rosa Shneck; brothers-in-law Gotthold Yosch, Jupp Winkelhoch and Hans Shneck; sister-in-law Lina Romankiewicz, son-in-law Kenneth Bremer and most recently her much loved son Gery Langenbach.

Barb’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Stonehill Care Center, Dr. Steffen and Hospice of Dubuque for all their care and kindness.

Memorials may be given to Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque or Palm Springs Air Museum in memory of her son Gery Langenbach.

Oma will forever be in our hearts!

Norma E. Foster

Norma E. Foster, 81, of Dubuque, died Monday, October 19, 2020, at her home.

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until 11:00 am, Friday, October 23, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. Due to the city mask mandate, masks are required at the visitation and the service. Please respect our current social distancing requirements. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to Norma’s family. The Funeral Service for Norma will be 11:00 am, Friday, October 23, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Scott Meador officiating. Burial will be in Highview Cemetery in Epworth. 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.

Norma was born September 12, 1939, in Bushnell, IL, the daughter of Robert and Helen (Cortelyou) Wheeler. She graduated from Macomb High School in Macomb, IL. In May of 1958 , she married Kenneth D. Foster in Macomb, IL.

Norma was a homemaker. She enjoyed cooking, knitting, sewing, fishing and watching the Packers. She especially loved spending time with family and Face Timing with them. Norma was a long-time member of the Epworth United Methodist Church and most recently, the Center Grove United Methodist Church. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society.

Survivors include one daughter, Gaye Ann Gotto of Waterford, WI; one son, Kenneth (Dawn) Foster of Oshkosh, WI; five grandchildren, Jennifer (Jason) Gorman of Waukesha, WI, Michelle (Drew) Vollbrecht of Elko-New Market, MN, Amanda (Shawn) Sumner of West Palm Beach, FL, Ashley (Sean) Elliott of Oshkosh, WI, Matt Foster of Madison, WI; nine great-grandchildren, Ralph, Cole, Isla, Brynn, Emmalyn, Isabella, Victoria, Elodie, Logan; one sister, Marjorie Watt of Silver Spring, MD.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth D. Foster; her parents; one son-in-law, Paul Gotto and one brother, Robert G. Wheeler.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for American Lung Association or American Diabetes Association.

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

A Tribute Video can be viewed by visiting Norma’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Rosemary C. Shoop

Rosemary C. Shoop, 83 of Bellevue, Iowa passed away peacefully on October 17, 2020 at home with daughters Kim and Pam at her side.

A funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. David Ambrosy officiating. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Rosemary was born on March 2, 1937 in LaMotte, Iowa the daughter of Joseph and Annalyal (Hayes) Pitts. She married Leon Keil on January 3, 1957 and they had seven children together; he preceded her in death. She later married Stanley Shoop on May 6, 1978 and he also preceded her in death.

Rosemary was retired for many years; she was lastly working for the Point Restaurant on Rhomberg in Dubuque. She enjoyed playing cards with her sisters at Papas Tavern in LaMotte. She loved to watch TV especially the Incredible Dr. Pol or any animal or nature show. She enjoyed country music especially Luke Bryan. But most of all Rosemary loved her children and grandchildren more than anything. She was always happy to see them or receive a phone call from them.

She is survived by her five children, Kim (Rod) Weipert, John (Tracey) Keil, Pam (Randy) Zimmerman, Jay (Barbara) Keil and Todd Keil. She is also survived by 42 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Brothers John (Elaine) Pitts and Bob (Nancy) Pitts; sisters, Ilene (Ed) Freiburger, Rita (Darrell) Russell, Dorothy (Carl) Casel, and Linda (Dave) Kueter along with numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands Leon Keil and Stanley Shoop; two sons Joseph and Douglas Keil; her brother Tom Pitts and sisters Kathy Pitts and Shirley (Louie) Heister and a great grandson Collin.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their kind and compassionate caregivers; to Dr. Mark Runde and Dr. Ramanujam and their staff for all their care they gave to Rosemary these past 8 years.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Rosemary’s name may be mailed to Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque, IA 52003.

JoAnn Herting

JoAnn Herting, 83, passed away peacefully at her home in Dubuque on Sunday, October 18, 2020, surrounded by her loving family in song and prayer.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Friday, October 23, 2020, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1870 St. Ambrose St., Dubuque.  Mass at St. Anthony’s will immediately follow at 12:00 PM and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory Facebook page. Msgr. James Miller will officiate. Masks and social distancing are required for those attending.   Interment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

JoAnn was born on July 17, 1937 in Dubuque Iowa to Harold and Jeannette (Imhof) Kutsch. She said “I Do” and married Edward (Ed) Herting on August 30th, 1958 at St. Columbkilles Church, Dubuque, IA.
 During JoAnn and Ed’s 62 years of marriage, they remained faithful and devoted parishioners of St. Anthony’s – where all 5 of their kids also went to school.

JoAnn absolutely loved and took very seriously her devotion to St. Anthony’s “Power of Prayer” group as well as singing with the funeral choir. 
Anyone who met or knew JoAnn couldn’t help but immediately recognize her love and devotion to her family. JoAnn’s needs were always secondary to those of her family – she wouldn’t have it any other way. She never missed an opportunity to spend time with her children and was affectionately known as G.G to her 16 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. JoAnn was an avid card player and particularly loved playing Bridge – gaining years of fond memories and close friendships with multiple Dubuque area bridge club members. Together, JoAnn and Ed introduced their family to Door County Wisconsin which later in life proved to become almost an annual family fun-spot. JoAnn and Ed also enjoyed visiting their daughter and her family during their frequent Christmas / Winter excursions to California.

JoAnn and Ed were proud parents to 5 children. Karen (Kent) Johnson of Redlands, CA.; Paula (Shawn) Kelly of Cedar Falls, IA; David Herting of North Liberty, IA; Michael (Lisa) Herting of West Des Moines, IA; and Greg Herting of Cedar Falls, IA.
JoAnn is also survived by her loving sisters, Jeanne (Jack) Kiefer of Dubuque, IA and Lynn (Larry) Trebon of Whitefish Bay, WI.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents – Harold and Jeanette Kutsch her brother Jerry Kutsch, and 2 great grandchildren Peyton and Patrick Stedman.

Ed and his family would like to express a very sincere and heart-felt thank you to all who  were integral in caring for JoAnn  including Hospice of Dubuque, all the dedicated nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital and especially Dr. Ram and his team of professionals at Medical Associates.

The family asks that all memorials be directed toward Hospice of Dubuque or St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

Gilbert B. Willenborg

Gilbert B. Willenborg, 92, of Dyersville and formerly of Petersburg passed away Sunday, October 18, 2020, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 8 pm Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 2:45 and a VFW/American Legion service will be held at 7 pm. Visitation will continue Friday from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. Masks and social distancing are strongly recommended. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 23, 2020, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate. Edward W. Lake VFW Post 7736 and American Legion Post 137 will accord military honors. Live stream link of the funeral mass is: https://youtu.be/ryHRQxautk0

Gib was born March 8, 1928, in Petersburg the son of George and Frances (Noethe) Willenborg. He was inducted in to the Army and served in Korea from 1951 – 1953. When he returned he married Mary Ann Rolfes on April 21, 1953, in Petersburg. Together they farmed in the Petersburg area for 46 years, then retired and moved to Dyersville in 2000. He and Mary Ann cooked for the Petersburg Hall for many years.

Gib never passed up a game of cards and would often say, “If we had one more person we could have a game of cards!!” Gib was a member of the Edward W. Lake VFW Post 7736 and American Legion Post 137, for whom he was active for many years.

Survivors include his children: Danny (Cindy) Willenborg and Rick (Lori) Willenborg, both of Dyersville, Shirley (Pete) Sciortino of Arizona; 9 grandchildren: Joanie Pope, Jamie Willenborg, Tracey Milroy, Terry Willenborg and Jody Jones, Melissa Wilson, Christine Ramirez, Peter Michael and Timothy Sciortino; 11 great grandchildren: Branden and Austin Pope, Mikayla and Lilly Willenborg, Emma and Millie Willenborg, Preston, Kason and Jaxon Wilson and Audrina and Brady Sciortino; in-laws: Ruth Willenborg of Dyersville and Janet Rolfes of Osage.

He was preceded in death by his parents his parents-in-law, Lawrence and Mathilda Rolfes, his wife, Mary Ann, siblings: Laverne (Betty) Willenborg and Fred Willenborg, and a brother-in-law, Marvin (Patricia) Rolfes.

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

Lester M. Entringer

Lester M. Entringer, 91, of Dubuque, IA passed away on October 18, 2020 at MercyOne Medical Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2020 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Jim Goerend officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery where military honors will be accorded. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. A live stream of the funeral service will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Lester was born in LaMotte, IA, and grew up on a farm where he learned the value of hard work and his love of family. After graduation from Holy Rosary High School, he attended Loras Academy on a scholarship before attending radio school in Omaha, NE.
He was drafted in the Army and served state-side during the Korean War, where he developed close friendships and was a radio instructor.

After being honorably discharged, he worked briefly at a radio station in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, before returning to Dubuque to work at KDTH. He soon was hired as a technician at the Gerrold Cable company in Dubuque. He moved his way up to become the head technician and worked for 45 years with the many cable companies over the years including, Gerrold, Teleprompter, TCI, and Group W Cable.

He enjoyed and took pride in his work and loved seeing the changes in technology over the years, from vacuum tubes to satellite dishes to fiber optics. While his job was his vocation, nothing meant more to him than his family. He met Jean Christ at the bus stop on Clarke Drive in Dubuque, and he gave her a ride to her job at Moulds Studio downtown where he worked at the cable company. Lester and Jean married on a beautiful day on September 5 in 1960.

He was a faithful devout Catholic which lead him and his wife, Jean, to purchase their home close to St Joseph the Worker Church and the then St Joseph’s School, where they were parishioners all their lives. Having five children, family was their joy and inspiration. The went on many family vacations and did other activities together which helped the family grow in love and devotion to each other.

Lester was an avid ham radio operator and had his radio set-up in the basement where he would go “downstairs to go on his net” almost every night. He loved crossword puzzles from the daily paper and any other puzzles he could get his hands on right up into his 90s. He also loved aviation and flew planes in his college years, including his favorite plane, the Piper Cub.

Lester’s love of family also includes his grandson, Ben and his wife, Ashley and his great grandchildren. Ben has followed in Lester’s footsteps as a head technician at Mediacom.
Les loved getting together for family dinners and would make his famous pie and bread that we all loved. Up until the end, a main concern was to make sure his family was safe and successful in their lives.

In his final days on earth, he was surrounded by his children as we talked, laughed, and reminisced together, which was his greatest joy in life. Dad will be with us in our memories and through the many stories we will continue to tell at all our family gatherings. He will always be remembered for his dry sense of humor, funny stories, witty intelligence, Catholic faith and most importantly, his love of family.

Lester is survived by his children Julie (Fred) White, Laurie Entringer (Chicago), Steve Entringer (Denver), Chris Entringer (Peosta), and a grandson Ben (Ashley) O’Malley. Sisters Ruth (Ed) Gansemer, Rita Entringer, and Venita Mclaughlin

He was preceded in death by is parents, his wife Jean (Christ), his oldest son Tony Entringer, and a brother Leonard Entringer.

The family thanks Hawkeye Care who showed compassion and kindness where he lived his last few months, and our brother in law, Fred White who encouraged dad to never give up. The family would also like to thank the staff at Mercy ER, ICU and Mercy Comfort Care for their dedicated service where we were able stay at his side until dad passed peacefully.

In lieu of flowers, a Lester Entringer memorial fund has been established.

Charlyn M. (Benda) Miller

Charlyn Marie (Benda) Miller, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on Saturday, October 17, 2020 at UnityPoint Finley Hospital. She passed away with her daughters at her bedside. Visitation will be held from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Saturday October 24, 2020 Church of the Resurrection followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30am.

Charlyn was born on August 19, 1940, in Dubuque, IA to Joe and Eunice (Guns) Benda. As a child, she enjoyed traveling with her parents to visit friends in Green Bay, Wisconsin and traveling across the country with her parents and cousin Carolyn. They especially enjoyed the Canadian Rockies. She graduated from Immaculate Conception and attended Clarke College for two years as an English major. She was employed at J.C.Penney’s, the Dubuque Packing Company and John Deere as a key punch operator.

Charlyn married William Miller on October 1, 1966. She and Bill raised two daughters. Together they traveled to Green Bay, WI and California to visit friends and family. Charlyn volunteered at Irving Elementary School library, served on the St. Mary’s Parish Council and delighted in attending the concerts and sporting events of her daughters and grandsons.

Surviving are her husband, William, her daughters Cheryl Miller of Beloit, WI, Anne (Brad) Kruse of Dubuque, IA; grandsons Joseph, Ted and Matthew Kruse.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, we ask you to love one another.

Ella M. (Kloft) Pitz

Ella M. (Kloft) Pitz, 87, of LaMotte, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2020. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, October 21, 2020 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek. Visitation will be 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Additional visitation will begin one hour prior to Mass on Wednesday at the Church. Burial will be in Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery in LaMotte. Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the Hachmann Funeral Home Facebook Page. It is required to utilize masks and respect social distancing during the visitation at the funeral home and at the funeral mass due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Ella was born May 17, 1933 in Springbrook, the daughter of Michael and Bertha (Homan) Kloft. She married Donald “Dan” Pitz on June 4, 1957 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. He passed away on June 24, 1994. Ella graduated from St. Joseph’s High School and lived her whole life on the farm, milking cows and baling hay. Ella worked at Clinton Engines, ASCS office, bartender at Country Pride in Zwingle and Metrix Co in Dubuque for 22 years until her retirement at the age of 77.

She enjoyed playing Euchre, Bingo, dancing, fishing, and holiday get-togethers. Ella learned to use her IPAD to stay in touch with family and friends. She took much pride in her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and enjoyed attending their events. Ella was known for her apple cookies, meatloaf, and preparing holiday meals. She always had food on the table for anyone who stopped at the house. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her children, Holly (Randy) Streeter of Fayette, Iowa, Mike Pitz of LaMotte, Marty (Sandy) Pitz of Welton, Iowa, Gina Pitz of Platteville, Wisconsin, and Diane (Alan) Magnani of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; a daughter in-law, Jessica Pitz of Madison, Wisconsin; grandchildren, David, Chris and Daniel Streeter and Mary Wall; Jason and Jared Pitz; Cam and Jared Dixon; Trey, Jordan and Lexie Magnani; Paige, Owen and Quinn Pitz; 24 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and a brother in-law, John Pitz of Vinton.

Ella was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Donald; a son, Jordan Pitz on January 5, 2015; and a brother, Ivan Kloft.

Thank you to the friends and neighbors who have helped her over the years, especially those who drove her to doctor appointments, picked up her mail, mowed the lawn, and helped clear snow. The family would also like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their care and concern during these final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be designated to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Ella’s memory. Memorials and condolences may be mailed to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service 100 N. 6th St. Bellevue, IA 52031 if you are unable to attend services c/o Ella Pitz Family.

Ella’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com.

Barbara A. Horn

Barbara Ann (Bloechl) Horn (otherwise known as Momma, Grandma and Aunt Barb), 71, of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully Saturday, October 17, 2020 at home surrounded by family. 

A private visitation and service will be held Wednesday, October 21st at Galena Bible Church with Pastor Gary Kirst officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family. The funeral will be live-streamed on The Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page. Face masks and social distancing will be required. 

Barbara was born on September, 30, 1949, in Oshkosh, WI daughter of Erwin and Bernice (Robl) Bloechl. Her favorite memories while growing up involved Grandpa George, her siblings, the Point Comfort cabin in Oshkosh, and the family dog, Duchess.  

Barbara was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School in 1967 and of Mercy Medical Center School of Nursing in 1970 and became an RN. She was employed at Mercy Hospital in the Surgical Department for 26 years, until her retirement in 2013. Nursing and caring for others was a passion of hers and is where she made many lifelong friendships. After Barbara found herself at odds with the free time she had after retirement she turned to her love of books and a position as a Library Clerk at the East Dubuque Public Library. Working with Jessica and the staff there made her very happy. 

Barbara met her husband, Nick Horn in 1994 and they were married at Galena Bible Church in April 1995 where her “three girls” stood up in support of the marriage. Barbara loved being outdoors and after their eldest grandson Tavian was born, Barb, Nick and Tavian enjoyed many camping trips in Wisconsin where they would fish, canoe and enjoy fires. They also enjoyed heading to Madison for an annual trip to see “Kites On Ice”. In her later years, Barbara enjoyed studying butterflies and fishing with her grandsons, Jackson and Josiah, as well as travelling to Brookfield to watch them play basketball and baseball. Halloween was Barbara’s favorite holiday as her vast collection of masks and wigs can attest to. 

Those left to cherish Barbara’s memory include her husband Nick of 25 years; her daughters Katie (Schuster) Von Rox, Sara (Schuster) Holmes and her husband Courtney; her grandchildren Tavian Schuster and Jackson and Josiah Holmes; her siblings Georgia (Les) Johns, Chuck (Christine) Bloechl, Julie (Kevin) Kriebs and Martha Smith (Joseph Mulgrew).

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Rachel Renee Schuster, her parents, brother in law, Steve Smith, her niece Jennifer Johns, her father in law, Nickson Horn, and sister in law, Irene Orth.

The family would like to thank Chris and Stacy from Hospice of Dubuque, and special friend, Carla Johnson for their care of Barbara. 

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.  Online condolences can be made at Miller Funeral Home.

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