Obituaries Archive

Barbara J. Doyle

Barbara J. “Barb” Doyle, 80, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation for Barb will be held from 8:30 to Noon, Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  A Mass of Christian burial for Barb will follow visitation at 12:30 p.m., at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Marvin Bries officiating and Rev. Hung Le concelebrating. Burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa.

Barb was born February 10, 1945, in Dyersville, Iowa to Benny and Janie (Wolf) Westemeier.  She graduated from Xavier High School then headed to Omaha, NE and enrolled in secretarial school. She eventually landed in Arlington, VA working for the Pentagon. While in Virginia she met her soulmate, Joseph “Buddy” Doyle. On June 26, 1965, they were united in marriage at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Dyersville, Iowa.

Barb worked and then eventually managed the St. Francis Xavier lunch program for many years.  Many will remember her greeting them and taking their green lunch chip.  In later years she worked at Scale Models until retirement.

She loved spending time at her cabin in North Buena Vista feeding the birds, driving around in her Bobcat, nightly toddies with Bob and Marie, and Thursday Happy Hour with Dorothy.  If you stopped by, she would be puttering around outside or sitting under the apple tree.

Barb was a member of the St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, Iowa and a member of the Legion Auxiliary Unit 137.  She was also active in the Girl Scouts managing the Day Camps at Prier’s timber along with being a troop leader.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Tammy (Mike) Then; 2 grandchildren, Jessica and Bryan Then; brother, Roger (Judy) Westemeier all of Dyersville, IA; along with her forever friends Pat and Tom Lammers and her special “Buenie” family.

She was welcomed to Heaven by her husband Buddy and grandson Matt Then; parents, Benny and Janie Westemeier; in-laws; Joseph and Maureen Doyle, James (Shirley) Doyle, Kathleen (Joe) Kane, Joanne Daft; nephew, Randy Westemeier along with many extended family and friends.

Memorials can be directed to St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, St. Francis Xavier Grade School, Beckman Catholic High School.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to neighbors Shelly R and Marcia L, staff at Mercy One in Dubuque and Mercy One Senior Care in Dyersville, Hospice of Dubuque, along with all our family and friends who reached out with support.  It didn’t go unnoticed.

Henry M. Hanson Jr.

Henry M. Hanson Jr., age 90, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away peacefully at home in his daughter’s arms, on Saturday, September 13, 2025.  To celebrate Henry’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Sunday, September 21, 2025. at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Private family burial will be in East Dubuque Cemetery.

Henry was born on August 6, 1935, in Webster, South Dakota, the son of Henry M. and Laura M. (Vevang) Hanson Sr.

Henry honorably served his country with the U.S. Army.  After high school, Henry earned his business degree in accounting.  He was employed as an accountant, working with N-REN Corporation in Minneapolis and transferring to East Dubuque before retiring at age 65.  He married Janet Lind and they had 2 children together before deciding to part ways.  Henry eventually met Judy Harrison and they became inseparable “friends” for 27 years.  He was always very active and enjoyed doing craft projects, taking care of his yard and flower gardens, baking and cooking.  Henry’s faith was very important to him.  He was a member of Hope Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, where he was involved with many youth activities and taught 4th grade Sunday School.  Henry was a good man and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Those left to cherish Henry’s memory include

his children,
Jennifer Hanson, East Dubuque, IL
and Joshua (Daralene) Hanson Sr., Newark, DE;

6 grandchildren,
Kyle (Amy) Hanson-Bulera, Samantha Hanson, Joshua Hanson Jr., Maryanna Hanson, Alyssa (Joe) Latham and Tyler Harrison;

several great-grandchildren;

a brother,
Douglas (Bonita) Hanson, Chandler, AZ;

a niece and a nephew,
Michelle Hanson, Phoenix, AZ
and David (Tiffany) Hanson, Phoenix, AZ.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; his special friend, Judy Harrison; and his siblings, Lorraine Hanson and David Hanson.

Henry’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Karla, Morgan, Kristin and Stephanie, for their kindness and compassionate care.

Cards and memorials in Henry’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Henry Hanson Jr. Family.

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

Rosalyn A. Schonhoff

Rosalyn Ann Schonhoff, 101, of Galena, IL, passed away Monday, September 15, 2025, at Midwest Senior Care Center in Galena. A private funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena. The burial will follow in the church cemetery. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

She was born March 16, 1924, in Hazel Green, WI, the daughter of Frank and Rose (Wiegman) Pinch. She was united in marriage to Urban Schonhoff on June 13, 1945, at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Hazel Green. He preceded her in death on July 22, 2007. Rosalyn worked at the Eaton Corporation in Hanover, IL, for twenty years until her retirement. She was a homemaker and helped her husband on the family farm. She enjoyed gardening and spending time outdoors.

She is survived by her three sons, John (Barb), Terry (Sandy), and Rick Schonhoff (Lisa), one daughter, Connie (Ron) Ehrler, twelve grandchildren, and fourteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Kenneth, three grandchildren, Eric, Alex, and Adam Schonhoff, three brothers, Elmer, Vincent, and Francis, and two sisters, Maria and Lelia.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Midwest Senior Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion these past few years.

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

James D. McKenna

James “Woody” D. McKenna, 66, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away on September 15, 2025, at home surrounded by his loved ones.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 21, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 22, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Otter Creek, with Rev. David Ambrosy officiating. An additional visitation will be held at church before Mass starting at 9:00 a.m. Burial will be at St. Lawrence Catholic Church Cemetery at a later date.

Woody was born on April 23, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Donald and Rosemary (Olinger) McKenna. There is nothing Woody loved more than his family. He was incredibly proud of his daughter and son-in-law for the family they built together. He enjoyed watching his grandson pitch and play baseball and always made sure his freezer was full of ice cream for his granddaughters. Woody loved “lake life.” He enjoyed drinking cold Budweisers in his bar with all of his friends. When you thought of Leisure Lake you thought of Woody’s bar, it became a milestone. He enjoyed cruising around the lake on his golf cart, and back in the day, his Harley. Woody farmed all of his life, so when harvest season came around the golf cart and Budweiser got pushed aside for an International tractor and grain cart. Farming was his true passion. Woody was a hard worker and took pride in what he did. He will be missed by many but the memories will live on.

Woody is survived by his daughter, Heather (Matt) Casey; three grandchildren, Taylor, Tanner, and Peyton Casey; and siblings, Dick McKenna of Zwingle, John (Kim) McKenna of Marion, and Kathleen (Kenny) Aureden of Zwingle.

He was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Rosemary; sister-in-law Marsha McKenna; and his former wife Tracy.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and friends that helped with care and support the past few months.

Marvin F. Brimeyer

Marvin “Mick” F. Brimeyer, 86, of Sherrill, died Saturday, September 13th, 2025 surrounded by loved ones at The Bridges at Ankeny.

A rosary will be recited at 10:30 am Saturday, September 20, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 12:45 pm.

A Celebration of Mick’s Life will be 1:00 pm Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Dave Roth as the officiant. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Mick was born October 15, 1938 in Balltown, Iowa to Wilfred Edward and Lillian Catherine (Klein) Brimeyer. One of 9, Mick had many fond memories of growing up with his siblings. After graduating from Loras Academy and serving in the U.S. Airforce, Mick found love with Mary Ploessl and the two wed on May 19th, 1962. Together, Mick and Mary had 4 children. Mick was a supportive and devoted father and loved each of his kids dearly. Mick and Mary raised their family together until her untimely passing on October 22nd, 1987.

Mick was lucky to find companionship again and married Linda Heller, who passed away in October of 2020. The years they shared were full of Mick’s favorite things: camping, fishing, hunting and traveling. He had a deep love of the outdoors and taught his kids how to fish and hunt, leading to some of his and their favorite memories. He was happiest when he was catching crappies on the river or hunting for ginseng in the woods, but it was made all that much better when he got to share it with his wife, kids and grandkids.

Mick was a quick wit with an incredible sense of humor. He knew how to tell a good joke, and he wasn’t afraid to call you on your “B.S” or give you a little in return. He always had time for a story or to recount his time in the service. Mick was a U.S. Air Force Veteran, serving in aerial reconnaissance while stationed in Germany and Morocco. He was a proud Veteran. He would tell many stories of the planes he took and the castles and landscapes he photographed, but his best stories were the more colorful ones of his days off galavanting through the streets of Europe. After returning from service, Mick was a reliable employee for John Deere where, after working for many years, was offered early retirement at the age of 56. He happily took it to enjoy his life with those he loved most.

He is remembered lovingly by many, including his two daughters, Pam (Mike) Jach of West Des Moines, IA and Lori (Ed) Steinmann of Ankeny, IA; two sons, Dan (Kristy) Brimeyer of Dubuque, IA and Dennis Brimeyer of Sherrill, IA; eight grandchildren, Jeremy (Jackie), Jessica (Justin), Lauren (Evan), Alex (Ethan), Miranda, Caden, Alena and Olivia; six great-grandchildren, Evie, Quinn, Archer, Remy, Josephine, and Julianne; four sisters, Stella Ann (Patrick) Regan of Dubuque, IA, Diane (Dudley) Huber of Monroe, LA, Linda Burgess of Dubuque, IA and Laura (Loras) Miller of Dubuque, IA; four brothers, Peter Brimeyer of Dubuque, IA, Earl (Kathy) Brimeyer of Dubuque, IA, Lewis (Sharon) Brimeyer of Dubuque, IA and Patrick (Patrice) Brimeyer of Dubuque, IA; and two brothers-in-law, Andrew Ploessl of Dubuque, IA and James Paisley of Holy Cross, IA.

Besides his two wives, he was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers-in-law, Steve Burgess, Patrick Regan, along with several loved ones from his wife’s family.

A memorial has been established.

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

Michael A. McClanahan

Michael A. McClanahan, 50, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer, at his home in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 3:00 pm on Friday, September 19, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Michael will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Jeff Frieden as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Michael was born May 23, 1975, in Dubuque, the son of Helen A. (Schwartz) McClanahan. He was united in marriage to Jill Manders on June 16, 2000 in Dubuque.

Michael graduated from Dubuque Senior in 1994. He worked at the former Eagle Window & Door now Andersen Windows & Doors in Dubuque for 25 years.

Michael was a devoted member of Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where he served in many roles, including participation in Christian Experience Weekend (CEW) and That Man is You (TMIY). He loved watching football, especially cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes, and enjoyed traveling. Above all, he treasured time with his grandchildren and family.

Survivors include his wife, Jill of Dubuque, six children, Sara (Clayton) Miller of Peosta, Amber (Kyle) Laufenberg of Dubuque, Ann McClanahan of East Dubuque, Ben McClanahan of Peosta, Alex McClanahan of Jesup, GA, and Andrew McClanahan of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Kaelen, Wyatt, Chloe, Carter, Payton, and Layne; three siblings, Milton (Michelle) McClanahan of Rio Dell, CA, Mary (LeMarr) Cook of Dubuque, and Jason Kohn of Dubuque; seven siblings-in-law, Joan (Dan) Fawcett of Forman, ND, Vickie (Steve) Connolly of Dubuque, Cathy Manders of Dubuque, Mike (Kathy) Manders of Laurel, MT, Mark (Julie) Manders of Granger, IA, Tim Manders of Farley, and Carla Manders of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Michael was preceded in death by his mother; his in-laws, Delbert and Alice Manders; and two sisters, Kim Langrehr and Nancy Taggart.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Engelman and the nurses with Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care and support.

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

James J. Maas

James “Jim” J. Maas, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on September 13, 2025, at home.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Catholic Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, at the church, with Rev. Raymond Burkle officiating and Deacon John Stierman concelebrating. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Jim was born on July 6, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Joseph and Alice (Hamsmith) Maas. He attended Loras Academy in Dubuque and graduated in 1956. He was united in marriage to Marilyn Stierman on July 29, 1961, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church. He worked at Eagle Food Centers for 44 years, working his way up from a stocker to a manager. Jim honorably served in the Army ROTC and in the Army Reserves.

Jim enjoyed bowling, fishing, and playing cards. A devoted sports enthusiast, he was a loyal fan of the Green Bay Packers, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Indiana Fever. Above all, he cherished watching his grandchildren compete in basketball, softball, football, soccer, and track.

Jim is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marilyn; children, Kathy (Allan) Oakes of Racine, WI, Pat (Jody) Maas, Paula (John)Fitzgerald, both of Dubuque, Carol (Bryon) Wadsley of Humboldt, IA, and Carla (John) Courtney of Davenport, IA; 12 grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; sister Karen Maas; brother-in-law Richard (Jeanne) Stierman; sister-in-law Carol Maas; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Joesph and Alice; parents-in-law Leo and Mary Stierman; three great grandchildren; brother Thomas Maas; sister Joanne Stierman; sister-in-law and Evelyn Boland; and brothers-in-law Laverne and Edward Stierman.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s name to the American Heart Association and the Holy Spirit Parish.

The family would like to thank the Dubuque Fire Department and the Police Department for their response and care of Jim in his final moments.

John P. Mousel

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of John P. Mousel, age 83, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. John passed away peacefully on September 15, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and cherished memories.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 19th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 20th, 2025, at St. Joseph The Worker with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Born on July 22, 1942, in Bancroft, Iowa, John grew up in Mason City, Iowa, before making his home in Dubuque, Iowa. He pursued his education at Iowa State University before graduating from Loras College with a degree in sociology. He retired from the Dealer Technical Assistance Department at John Deere, where he served with distinction until his retirement on October 31, 1994.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Roselind, who was his steadfast partner and best friend throughout their life together. He was the proud father of two children, Tim and Jodi (Joe Alt), and the loving grandfather to Maddie and Emily Alt, who brought him immense joy and pride. John is also survived by his brother Don, his wife Martha, and their children Pam and Sue. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Mary Mousel, and his nephew Chuck.

John also enjoyed spending time with his extended family through marriage, Jim and George Rondinelli, and Jim’s children, Luca and Nica.

John will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the love he showed to all who knew him. John was known for helping anyone, at any time, for any reason. His motto he lived by was to do one good deed per day. He had a smile that could light up a room. He never met a stranger, as everyone liked him, and never missed an opportunity to meet someone new and strike up a conversation. John was always up for a new adventure, especially if it involved a motor (motorcycle, snowmobile) or a John Deere tractor. His children are thankful to have him as a loving father who would do anything for them and served as a lifelong role model. He wasn’t just a dad to us, but to our friends as well, who called him DJ, for Dad John. His family and friends will carry forward his memory with gratitude for the time they were blessed to share with him.

We want to thank the staff at Grand Meadows who always treated him with care and compassion, and whom he always spoke highly of. He felt well taken care of and often expressed gratitude for the hard work they do. We would also like to thank the hospice nurses who have helped him and us get through these past few weeks.

In remembrance of John, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Dubuque Humane Society or the American Diabetes Association, causes that were meaningful to him. The family also invites you to hold John in your thoughts and prayers, and to cherish the time you share with your loved ones. If everyone could follow in John’s footsteps and the motto of one good deed a day, we could all make this world a better place.

Bernard J. Brady

Bernard J. “Ben” Brady, age 84, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Saturday evening, September 13, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, IL. Burial will follow at the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be said at 3:30 p.m.

Ben was born on June 17, 1941 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Louis E. and Emily R. (Kuhl) Brady.  He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1959.

He was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving from 1959 – 1962 in locations throughout Europe.  Upon his return from service, Ben married Evie Slaats on February 23, 1963 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.  While raising their children, he was employed at Flexsteel Industries retiring in 2003 with over 40 years of service.

Ben was an active member of St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque throughout the years – including acting as an altar server after retirement.  He was an avid sports fan, continuing to play baseball and softball for decades and rarely missing a broadcast of Cubs or Bears games.

Ben never met a stranger.  He was quick with a smile and to strike up conversation with everyone he encountered.  He brought fun and joy to every situation.  He was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He also believed that anything worth doing, should be done right – no matter how long it took.

Surviving is his wife Evie; three daughters, Shirley (Chad) Biermeier of East Dubuque, IL, Lisa (Stephen) Schmittgall of Wilmette, IL, and Vickie Jones of East Dubuque, IL; seven grandchildren, Benjamin Brady of East Dubuque, IL, Vanessa Jones of East Dubuque, IL, A.J. Jones of Colorado Springs, CO, Andrew Leibold of Peosta, IA, Robin Leibold of Charleston, SC, and Stephen and Anna Schmittgall of Wilmette, IL; and six great-grandchildren.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Emily; his siblings, James Brady and Therese Schuster; and his infant daughter, Dawn Marie Brady.

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

Marie H. Berthel

William B. Klaersch

William B. Klaersch, 77, of Galena, IL, passed away on Tuesday, September 9, 2025. A funeral service will be held at 1 PM on Monday, September 22, 2025, at Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may call after 11 AM until the service begins. The burial will take place at Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born on April 23, 1948, in Berwyn, IL, the son of Mathias and Ruth (Niblack) Klaersch. Bill graduated from Proviso East High School in Maywood, IL. He was united in marriage to Beverly Blomquist/VanDyke on October 14, 2011, at the Galena Bible Church. Bill worked for the Chicago Public Schools for thirty years until his retirement. He also worked part-time at Walmart in Galena. He loved to tinker.

Bill is survived by his wife, Beverly; children, Lisa (John) Brown, Kelley Jackson, Mike (Michelle) Klaersch, Kelly Van Dyke, Craig (Maggie) Van Dyke, and Keith (Maureen) Van Dyke; eleven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; and former spouse, Donna Qualkinbush.

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

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

Sandra K. Blaser

Sandra K. Blaser, 84, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, September 15, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sandy will be at 10:00 am Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Jeff Frieden as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Sandra was born June 28, 1941, in Dubuque, the daughter of Kenneth and Genevieve (Chandler) Fenelon. She was united in marriage to Russell Blaser on April 8, 1961 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Sandy graduated from St. Joseph Academy in 1959 and later, Bayless Business College in 1961.

Sandy worked for the Dubuque Community Schools as an administrative assistant at Hempstead High School for 22 years.

Sandy was a devoted member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She enjoyed peaceful days on the river, golfing, water walking, and caring for her beloved roses, but most of all, cherished time with her family.  For 28 years, Sandy and Russ enjoyed winters in Clearwater, Florida, where they created lasting memories with friends and family. Sandy’s warmth, kindness, and gentle spirit will be missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her loving husband of 64 years, Russell of Dubuque; three daughters, Kim (David) Duwe of Dubuque, Kelly (William Jr.) Neyen of Dubuque, and Karla (Michael) Faust of Lodi, WI; eight grandchildren, Brianna (Kevin) Jacque, Brooke (Tyler) Dittmer, Braelyn (Logan Nauman) Neyen, Brittany (Josh Hendricks) Neyen, Brad (Taylor) Duwe, Riley, Connor, and Quinn Faust; five great-grandchildren, Liam & Brecken Jacque, Caden & Cal Dittmer, Maeva Duwe, and three more on the way; three siblings, Patrick (Carol) Fenelon of Arizona, Judith Oberbroeckling of Dubuque, and Kathleen Buckland of Wisconsin; one sister-in-law, Margaret Blaser; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Sandy was preceded in death by her in-laws, Ralph and Hilda Blaser; and three brothers-in-law, Daniel Oberbroeckling, Donald Buckland, and Ronald Blaser.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jamie, whose care and kindness brought Sandy comfort in her final days. They are also deeply thankful for the dedicated Memory Care Unit at Stonehill, as well as Dr. Peroski, whose thoughtful attention and loving care meant so much to Sandy and her family.

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

Ann L. Freiburger

Ann L. Freiburger, 73, of Dubuque, died Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 8:00 am Thursday, September 18, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ann will be 10:00 am Friday, September 19, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Father Bob Gross as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Ann was born July 25, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of William J. and Ardale (Whittle) Sutter. On May 6, 1972, she married Paul J. Freiburger at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 19, 2013.

Ann graduated from Walhert Catholic High School in 1971.

She was a school bus attendant for the Dubuque Community School District for many years.

Ann enjoyed visiting the local parks with her family and friends. Her most cherished memories were ones made with her family.

Survivors include her children, Dennis Freiburger, Tracy Freiburger, and Kevin (Jessica) Freiburger; all of Dubuque; three grandchildren, Sara Ann Koeppen, Suzie Koeppen, and Wyatt Freiburger; 10 siblings, Steve Sutter of Hummble, TX, Tom (Femina) Sutter of Richmond, TX, Richard (May) Sutter of Anchorage, Jeff Sutter of Thailand, Bill (Paula) Sutter of Grand Chute, WI, Ken (Jennett) Sutter of McCausland, IA, Sharon (Mike) Goedken of Dubuque, Mary (Lance Taylor) Sutter of Dyersville, Judy (Gary) Conrad of Dubuque, and Linda Walsh of Dubuque; and one sister-in-law, Bev Sutter.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Johnny Sutter and Dave Sutter; and her father- and mother-in-law, Irvin and Alberta Freiburger; and brothers-in-law, Wayne Freiburger and Donnie Freiburger; and three nephews, Timmy Freiburger, Devin Goedken, and Danny Sutter.

Ann’s family would like to extended a heartfelt thank you to her home care nurse, Chris, and Care Initiative Hospice, especially Laura.

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

Constance R. Heim

Constance R. “Connie” Heim, age 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on September 12th, 2025. A woman of deep faith, quick wit, and everyday kindness, Connie was the steady center of her family and a loyal friend to many.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 18th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 19th, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Ray Burkle officiating. Private family burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Connie was born on October 24, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of David and Dorothy (Meyer) Kupferschmidt. Connie graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1965. She married Wayne F. Heim on May 30th, 1970, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

She began her career in the office at the Dubuque Packing Company and later worked in the Accounting Office at John Deere Dubuque Works. Following her love of animals, she also served as a dog groomer at the Urban Hound, caring for countless family pets.

Connie gave generously of her time and talents. She volunteered at the Holy Ghost School Library and the Loras College Library, happily sharing her love of books. A Franciscan Associate, she lived her faith with a deep devotion to Mary, prayerfully crafting numerous rosaries that she gifted to others.

A curious mind to the end, Connie was a lifelong learner who enjoyed taking many classes at the Roberta Kuhn Center. At home, she loved to read, quilt, sew, make crafts, travel to Arizona, play cards, and most of all, spend time with her boys, her three grandchildren, and friends from church. She loved her dogs and rarely met a fabric store she could pass by—there wasn’t a quilt shop that she was able to resist. Humble and caring, she was the epitome of kindness, and many will remember that Connie gave the very best hugs.

She was immensely proud of her boys and grandchildren, celebrating their milestones with joy and gratitude.

Connie is survived by her husband of 55 years Wayne; her sons: Jon (Kate) Heim, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Jason Heim, Justin Heim and Jordan Heim all of Dubuque; her grandchildren: Adelaide, Marlena and Karsten; along with her sister Kay (Brad) Averkamp, of East Dubuque, IL.

She was preceded in death by her parents Dorothy and David Kupfeschmidt, her Sister Carol Friederick, brother-in-law Carl Friederick, and her nephew Mica Friederick

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to a parish, school, library, animal shelter or a charity of your choice in memory of Connie.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to MercyOne Medical Center for their wonderful care; to Fr. Ray Burkle and to the many family and friends of Connie for their love, support and prayers during this difficult time.

Connie’s legacy is stitched into the lives she touched—faith, family, friendship, and small acts of gentleness, pieced together like a beloved quilt.  She will be greatly missed.

Ashlei K. Schwendinger

Ashlei K. Schwendinger, age 49, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.  To celebrate Ashlei’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home.  Burial will be at a later date.

Ashlei was born on August 1, 1976, in Florida.

Ashlei graduated from high school and then attended Hawkeye Community College.  She married the love of her life, Paul Schwendinger, October 20, 2006, in Prairie du Chein, Wisconsin.  Ashlei was an extremely devoted wife and mom.  Her family meant the world to her and she truly loved taking care of everyone.  Ashlei enjoyed entertaining and always looked forward to hosting the family’s annual Christmas cookie exchange.  She was also a dedicated worker who was employed as an IT Specialist at UnityPoint Health.  In her free time, Ashlei and Paul loved spending time together in the kitchen making new recipes.  She also liked spending time outside and working in her gardens.  She was a homebody who liked to watch movies, root for the Green Bay Packers, and anything Baby Yoda.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed playing video games on her phone, especially Pokémon Go.  Ashlei was a wonderful wife, mom and friend and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Ashlei’s memory include

her husband,
Paul Schwendinger, Dubuque, IA;

2 children,
Bailey Schwendinger
and Brian Schwendinger, both at home;

her mother,
Brenda Rountree;

and her mother-in-law,
Debrea (John) Freisinger, East Dubuque, IL.

Ashlei’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Palliative Care for their wonderful care and support.

Cards and memorials in Ashlei’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ashlei Schwendinger Family.

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