Obituaries Archive

Rocky Tiefel

Rocky Tiefel passed from this life to the next on August 17, 2020, after a hard fought 3-year battle with Lung Cancer.  His family surrounded him.

To honor Rocky’s life, his memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 20, 2020, at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road in Dubuque, with Pastor Matthew Agee officiating.  Family and friends of Rocky’s may visit for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rocky was born on March 23, 1948, he was the only son of Dale J and Evelyn A (Schroeder) Tiefel.  He attended St. Columbkille’s and graduated from Wahlert  high school.

After high school, Rocky spent a short time in the Navy Seabees.  In his younger years, he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He went any time he had the opportunity.

Rocky served as an Assistance Scoutmaster for Troop #22. One of his most memorable times was a trip to Phil Mont New Mexico with a group of scouts.  He helped many boys reach their Eagle Scout rank, including his son, Rob.

Later he enjoyed putzing around his garden and garage.   Feeding and watching the birds also became a real enjoyment to him.

Rocky was a volunteer and worked on the construction of the Dubuque Soccer Complex from its inception until after its opening and he took great pride in knowing that many families would have the opportunity to enjoy the complex in the future.

He was a carpenter by trade, working 31 years at MercyOne Hospital.  After Mercy, he spent another 10 years at Terrace Heights as a Maintenance Supervisor.  He retired in 2014

Rocky married Bonnie Winders on October 18, 1985, and together they raised four children; Sean, Mark, Rob and Jenny.   Rocky’s family meant everything to him.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons and watching his daughter play soccer all of the way through her college years. He was always a guiding hand in their lives.  Watching his children interact with their children proved especially satisfying to him.

His eight grandchildren made him happy and added a special joy to his life.   He delighted in teasing them at any chance he had and loved watching them play sports.  He was especially proud of Kaitlyn as she finished college this year, Lacy and Lauren as they enter their junior years in college, Emily for her spunk, Kobe for all of the help he has provided over the past few months, Tyler for giving him the opportunity to say “Run, Tyler, Run”, and Ashlyn and Alayna for their ability to tease Grandpa as much as he teased them.

Rocky was honored to be known as a Mason.  He was a member of Metropolitan Lodge #49, where he was a Past Master.  Rocky belonged to the Scottish Rite.  He was inducted into the KCCH (Knights Commander Court of Honor).  He was also a member of the Oxus Grotto, where he was a Past Monarch.  He loved his involvement with all of these organizations and was proud of the positive things they did.

Rocky was proceeded in death by his parents, Dale and Evelyn Tiefel (Dubuque); as well as his in-laws, Bob and Maryan Burdick (New Jersey) .

He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his 4 children & 8 grandchildren, Sean & Cyndi Tiefel (Kaitlyn and Lacey Tiefel) of Colorado, Mark & Michele Tiefel (Lauren, Emily and Tyler Tiefel) of Marion, Rob Winders of Dubuque, and Jenny & Benji Meyer (Kobe, Ashlyn and Alayna Meyer) of Dubuque; his brother-in-law, Bob and Karen Burdick of New Jersey, and many cousins and great friends.

Our family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. Honorio Caceras, Dr. Mark Janes, and Dr. Eric Engleman, as they fought hard for him during his battle.   Also, the nurses and Staff of the Oncology Department of Medical Associates, as well as Hospice of Dubuque for their constant support and compassion during the rough times.  They were always a comfort to both Rocky and his family.

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

Arlene N. Wulf

Arlene N. Wulf, 92, of Des Moines, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away Sunday evening, August 16, 2020, at The Life Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, August 21, 2020, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Masks and social distancing will be required due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Arlene Nevina Dosland was born on March 23, 1928 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Louis and Anna (Andersen) Dosland.  She was a graduate of Welton High School.  She married Donald A. Wulf on October 13, 1946 in DeWitt, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union:  Greg, Julia and Tina.

Arlene was a homemaker and had worked as an associate at J.C. Penney Store in Maquoketa for 22 years.

She was member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, a Sewing Club, and card clubs with family and friends.  She enjoyed playing bingo, cards and get togethers with her J.C. Penney group.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Greg Wulf of Commerce City, CO, Julia Wulf of Ankeny, IA, and Tina (Chris) Bickel of Des Moines, IA; 2 grandchildren, Nathan (Taylor) Bickel and Katie Bickel; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Donald on March 11, 2003, 4 brothers Arnie, Merlin, Norman and Orville Dosland, and 4 sisters Doris Hicks, Gladys Irwin, Loene Fatchett and Lois Duke.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Camp Courageous of Iowa or to First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.

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

Dell Junior Robinson

Dell Junior Robinson, age 31, of Dubuque, passed away at 6:15 p.m., on Thursday, August 13, 2020, at MercyOne Medical Center, with his loving family by his side. To celebrate Dell’s life, private family services were held. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Dell was born on November 14, 1988, in Chicago, Illinois, son of Del Stepp and Darlene Robinson.

Dell was born and raised in Chicago before moving to Dubuque where he would make his permanent home. He grew up fast and began working to help support his family at the tender age of 8. He started out pumping gas at the local station and when he turned 10, he was excited to go to work for his godmother at her candy store. Dell was always very motivated. He was a self taught mechanic whom many trusted to work on their vehicles, and he had aspirations of one day owning his own auto shop. Cars were his true passion and he loved tinkering with his own truck practically daily. Dell was extremely generous with his time and treasure, earning him the nickname “Doe” among his family and friends. He found great joy in helping others, even strangers he would encounter on family vacations. Dell was a hard worker and an excellent role model for not only his own children, but also for his nieces and nephews. We will miss him more than words can say!

Those left to cherish Dell’s memory include

his 4 children,
Amanti Robinson,
Ashanti Robinson,
Amyiah Robinson
and Dell Robinson, all in Dubuque, IA;

his fiancé ,
Angeline Ollie, Dubuque, IA;

his mother,
Darlene Robinson, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Launa (John Shempert Sr.) Robinson,
Cortez Robinson, both of Dubuque, IA,
Steve Williams, East Dubuque, IL,
Crystal Robinson, Dubuque, IA,
Traci Stepp, Madison, WI,
Tra’tionna Stepp, Chicago, IL,
Jerome Stepp, Chicago, IL,
Rashad Stepp, Las Vegas, NV,
Del “DJ” Stepp
and Del’Rashaun Stepp, both of Chicago, IL;

with loving memories of his aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews;

his godfather, Melvin Thornton, and his 4 godbrothers, Marqueal Holland, Andre Holland, Ralph Mitchell, Calvin Mitchel and good friends Donald Anderson and DeChun “Duke” Stovall;

his godmother, Tess Webster;

his fiancé’s mother,
Angela McCann, Dubuque, IA;

and his fiancé’s sisters,
Angelique Ollie and Mahogany Hunter, both in Dubuque, IA.

Dell was preceded in death by his father, Del Stepp; his paternal grandmother, Sherby Smith; his maternal grandmother, Berdia Robinson; and 2 aunts, Kimberly Hemphill and Mattie Watkins.

Dell’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Mercy Hospital, especially Paige and Abbey, for all of their kind and compassionate care of Dell and the entire family during this difficult time.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Dell Robinson Family.

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

Melvin P. Freisinger

Melvin Paul “Mick” Freisinger, 70, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 15, 2020, at the Ennoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque after many months of health issues related to heart surgery and an unfortunate automobile accident.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday, August 21, 2020 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road. Please respect our current social distancing and mask 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 Mick’s family. A Private Graveside for Melvin will be held Saturday, August 22, 2020, at St. Patrick Cemetery, Colesburg with Father Haugen as the Celebrant.

Mick was born on April 1, 1950 son of Paul “Dutch” and Darlene (Clemen) Freisinger. He married Sandy Thein on September 14, 1968, at St. Michaels Parish in Garber, IA.

Mick was employed at John Deere for 30 years retiring in 2001. He then delivered for several companies for several years which he loved. (Thank you, Georgia and Mark).

Mick loved hunting, fishing, and anything outdoors. He was an accomplished woodworker and spent many hours in his shop. He also enjoyed family time.

Survivors include his wife, Sandy; and three of their children, Craig, Robin (Ryan), and Aaron; eight grandchildren, Alisha (Aaron), Russell, Sam, Jordan, Logan, Jalyn, Nolan, and Val; three beautiful great-granddaughters; his loving siblings, Jack (Deb) Freisinger, Barb Duccini, Clarence (Joyce) Freisinger, Amy Richard, Joyce Freisinger, Darlene (Rich) Spangler, Mary Freisinger, Paul (Mary) Freisinger, David Freisinger, Charlie (Tammy) Freisinger; and his best friend and cat, Kiki.

Besides his parents Paul and Darlene, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Chelle who passed away in 2012; his brother, Ronald; a great friend and brother-in-law, Terry Duccini; a nephew, Jeff Galle; a sister-in-law, Karen Freisinger; and son-in-law, Randy Kay.

Thank you, Jack, for “hosting” daily coffee sessions, Paramount for getting him home, to the phenomenal staff at Ennoble for their excellent care during his multiple stays, and to Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care in his last days.

“I just want to go home….”

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mick’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Merlin G. Gonner

Merlin G. Gonner, 86, of East Dubuque, formerly of Springbrook, passed away, on Sunday, August 16, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Friday, August 21, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Family will greet friends 8:30 am – 10:30 am, also on Friday, August 21, 2020 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue prior to Mass. Burial will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery in Springbrook. Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bellevue. Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the St. Joseph Bellevue – Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook page, on their You Tube Channel and on Bellevue Cable TV. It is recommended to utilize masks during the visitation at the funeral home and at the funeral mass due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

A memorial fund has been established in Merlin’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 Merlin Gonner Family.
Merlin’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com.

Merlin was born, August 10, 1934 in Springbrook, the son of George and Alverda (Scheckel) Gonner. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1952. Merlin married Marcellene Lucille Till on April 7, 1956 at St. John Catholic Church in Andrew, she passed on June 13, 2007.

He was the Postmaster in Springbrook for 34 years, worked at Gonner’s Store and was a plumber and heating installer. Merlin lived his faith, loved his family and served his community as a volunteer firefighter in Springbrook, active in the Jaycees and town council. He served also on the Sts. Peter & Paul Parish Council, Marquette School Board, Bellevue Knights of Columbus Council 1354, Bellevue Braves Baseball and Springbrook Baseball Teams. We are blessed to have been loved by Merlin.

Survivors include his children, Stanley (Tamara) Gonner of Galena, IL, Karen Sturm of Bellevue, Duane (Tina) Gonner, and John (Jacqueline) Gonner of Dubuque; 13 grandchildren, Andrew (Kelsey) and Elizabeth (fiancé Marq) Gonner, Brittni, Jacob (Melissa), Michael, and Isaac (Haley) Sturm, Nathan (Alison), Brian (fiancé Jennifer), and Aaron Gonner, Kathryn (Nick) Morris, Nicholas, Rebecca, and Benjamin Gonner; 7 great-grandchildren, Morgan and Lexi Imhof, Landon, Eli, Leah, and Eviana Sturm, and Matthew Gonner; a sister, Glenna Kueter; brothers and sisters in-law, James Cloos of Bellevue, Tom Crouch of Maquoketa, Judy Kolker of Bellevue, Betty Gonner of Bellevue, Karen Gonner of Bellevue, Rosemary (Pete) Feller of Preston, Doris (Ray) Theisen of Bellevue, Jean Till of Delmar, Roger (Helen) Till of West Des Moines, Lek Till of Denver, CO, and Carol (Mick) Clark of Maquoketa.

Merlin was preceded in death by his parents, George and Alverda Gonner; his wife, Marcellene; son in-law, Joel Sturm, father and mother in-law, Anthony and Lucille (Entringer) Till; siblings and in-laws, Kate Cloos, Norma Crouch, Lloyd Gonner, Milton Gonner, Mark Kueter, David Gonner, Ronald (Rosemary) Till, Aloysius Till, and Eugene Till.

The family sends their gratitude to the staff of Medical Associates Clinic, East Dubuque Ambulance, MercyOne Hospital, Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care of Merlin.

Marcheta Roberta Cooey Lux

Marcheta Roberta (Furman) Cooey Lux, 91, of Delhi, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on February 25, 1929, in Dawson, Iowa, the daughter of Tyler and Pansy (Roberts) Furman. Marcheta grew up in Hanover, Illinois, until the age of six when her family moved to the Furman farm at old Hartwick. She then attended school in Delhi and was a 1947 graduate of Delhi High School. Growing up at Hartwick, Marcheta raised horses. After her graduation, Marcheta graduated from Texas Southmost College in Brownsville, Texas, and attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Marcheta met her future husband, Archie Cooey, while riding horses at Texas Southmost.

On August 24, 1949, Marcheta was united in marriage to Archie W. Cooey at the Delhi United Methodist Church in Delhi. After their marriage, Archie and Marcheta lived in Brownsville, Texas. Three children were born to this union. During WWII Marcheta worked for Pan American Airways as a mechanic, overhauling carburetors for DC4 and DC6 Propeller driven engines at the time of the Berlin Air Lift. In 1956 the family moved back to Old Hartwick (near Delhi) to build and operate Hartwick Lake Marina until 1985. Marcheta was active in outboard motor repair, sales, hauling boats and motors from factories to the marina, and did the bookkeeping for the marina. Marcheta also did bookkeeping for Bradco in the early years of that business.  Marcheta always felt the most important and rewarding job was being a mother.  Archie passed away on January 29, 2004.

On June 16, 2012, Marcheta was united in marriage to William “Bill” Lux. The couple made their home at the lake in Delhi. Bill died on February 8, 2019.

After her retirement from the Marina, Marcheta was active in helping watch over her local grandchildren and visiting those living in Colorado, in addition to working on the family genealogy. Over the years Marcheta was a very active volunteer in several local organizations including the Delhi United Methodist Women, the Delhi Tourism Group, and the Delhi Meals on Wheels Program. She was also involved with Angel Tree, an organization that provides gifts to children of incarcerated parents, the General Federation of Women’s Club for 60 years, and the Lake Delhi Recreation Association.

Survivors include her children, Ralph (Donna) Cooey of Longmont, Colorado, and Deborah (Tracy) Knake of Delhi; a daughter-in-law, Barb Cooey (Danny) Shaffer of Potosi, Wisconsin; two stepsons, James (Annette Andrews-Lux) Lux of Clinton, Washington, and David (Cindy) Lux of Cedar Falls; one stepdaughter, Julia (Craig) Thompson of Strawberry Point;  a stepdaughter-in-law, Patrice Lux of Louisville, Kentucky; ten grandchildren, Jim (Linda) Pingel, Jody Cooey, Ryan Cooey, Justin (Cali) Thole, Kamin Loney, Candace (Dave) Meredith, Tyler (Katie) Cooey, Breana (Carson) Ray, Miranda (Adam) Kracke, and Austin (Kathleen) Knake; 13 step-grandchildren, Chris Lux, Christina (Charles Payne) Lux, Joshua (Trisha) Lux, Matthew (Claire) Thompson, Jared (Leah) Thompson, Mark (Carrie) Thompson, Anna (Sam) Danforth, Jonathan Thompson, Caleb (Susan) Lux, Christian Thompson, Nathan Lux, Shannon Lux, and Ashlyn Lux; and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Marcheta was preceded in death by her parents; her two husbands, Archie Cooey and William “Bill” Lux; one son, William Cooey in 2008; one stepson, Jonathan “Scott” Lux; and several great-grandchildren.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Funeral Service:  10:30 a.m., on Thursday, August 20, 2020, at St. John Catholic Church in Delhi, with Rev. Keith Pitts officiating.

Visitation:  3:00 to 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call from 9:30 a.m. to 10:25 a.m. at the church on Thursday.

Interment:  Evergreen Cemetery – Delhi, Iowa

Because of COVID-19 concerns, masks are strongly recommended at the funeral home and are required at the church.

Andrew W. Jaeger

Andrew W. “Andy” Jaeger, age 67, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 7:50 a.m., on Saturday, August 15, 2020, at Ennoble Manor, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Andy’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 18, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Due to the COVID-19 mandate issued by the City of Dubuque, face masks are required for all who attend.  To honor Andy’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor Kristian Kincaid officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery at a later date following cremation.

Andy was born on July 7, 1953, in Guttenberg, Iowa, son of George and Frances (Wild) Jaeger.

Andy was born and raised in the Guttenberg area.  He was employed with Ertl in Dyersville and FDL Foods in Dubuque before heading out to Idaho for 7 years.  After his return to Dubuque, Andy was employed with Premier Linen for 7 years, where he ran the elevator, until his early retirement due to health issues in 2009.  Andy was an avid outdoorsman, always looking forward to spending time hunting, fishing, ginseng hunting and camping.  He also enjoyed snowboarding, traveling and hitting the open road on his motorcycle when the weather was nice.  Andy liked watching the Green Bay Packers play and listening to heavy metal music, Metallica was one of his favorite bands.  Andy’s greatest joy was definitely spending time with his family, he was a wonderful dad and grandpa!  We are deeply saddened at losing Andy in our daily lives, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully.

Those left to cherish Andy’s memory include

his 4 children,
Dawn (Kevin) Atkinson, Shellsburg, IA,
Eric (Marie) Jaeger, Boone, IA,
Becky Jo (Chris Kotte) Jaeger, McGregor, IA
and Adam Jaeger, Salt Lake City, UT;

11 grandchildren;

1 great-grandchild;

his 8 siblings,
Dottie (Lowell) Willie, St. Olaf, IA,
Marty Jaeger, Waterloo, IA,
Monica Jaeger, Dubuque, IA,
Gene (Gail) Jaeger, Albia, IA,
Cathy (Steve) Wiskus, Colesburg, IA,
Jerry (Deb) Jaeger, Dubuque, IA,
Angie Jaeger, Dubuque, IA
and Theresa Kotz, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Mary Jaeger, Dubuque, IA;

several nieces and nephews;

and a special friend,
Carol Polkinghorn, Dubuque, IA.

Andy was preceded in death by his parents, George and Frances Jaeger; his brother, Chuck Jaeger; and a brother-in-law, Jeff Kotz.

Andy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional care of Andy and his entire family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Andrew Jaeger Family.

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

Sally A. Fortmann

Sally A. Fortmann, 82, of Dubuque died Thursday, August 13, 2020.  Private family services were held at Mueller Memorial Chapel, Linwood Cemetery.

Sally was born July 21, 1938 in Dubuque, daughter of Milton and Alice (Winders) Jaeger.

She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

Sally is survived by three children, Barb (Paul) Howes of Dubuque, Diann Bell of Republic, MO, and Tony (Christina) Fortmann of Marian; and four grandchildren, Ella and Madalyn Fortmann and Spencer and Connor Oswald.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Fortmann in 2004, and two brothers.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

The family would like to thank Dr. Runde, and the nurses and staffs at Hawkeye Care Center, Mercy One and Hospice of Dubuque for all their compassion and care.

Joseph Oscar Frederick Irwin

Joseph Oscar Frederick Irwin, age 87, passed away on Thursday, August 6, 2020 as he watched the sun rise in Lancaster, WI. He is now laughing and singing with the family members who have been waiting for him. Joe was born August 23, 1932 the family moved to San Jose, CA, where Joe lived until relocating to Carmel, CA and finally settling in Wisconsin in the 1990s. Married twice and a member of a large, extended family with eight siblings, Joe is survived by his two brothers, three children, two stepchildren, eight grandchildren, one great grandson and another on the way. He was a veteran of the US Army during the Korean War, and as a man of many skills, Joe worked as a master tile setter, real estate agent, general handyman and sheep rancher. He was a fisherman and hunter, a cigar smoker and jokester, and he always knew how to make you laugh. He was a born storyteller and self-avowed philosopher who would listen to mariachi and pontificate on the meaning of life.  He will be missed by all who knew him.

A virtual memorial is being planned for a future date.  Burial will be in the Oak Hill Cemetery, San Jose, CA.  The Martin Schwartz Funeral Home and Crematory in Lancaster is assisting the family.

Online Condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.comJ

Ferdinand A. Nesler

Ferdinand August Nesler IV, 73, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2020, at Manor Care.

Friends may greet the family from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, August 17, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. A Memorial Service will be held at 6 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, and will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview  Funeral Home Facebook page. Rev. Dianne Grace will officiate. Military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Masks are required. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com for those unable to attend.

Ferd was born October 8, 1946 in Dubuque, the son of Ferdinand Nesler III and Rita (Baecker) Nesler. He attended Dubuque Senior High School and Loras College.

Ferd served his country with the U.S. Navy as a medic from 1963 until his honorable discharge in 1967.

Ferd was a real estate agent, and also owned and operated his own real estate appraisal business.

He enjoyed reading, boating, and was a motorcycle enthusiast. Ferd loved spending time with his daughter.

Ferd is survived by two daughters, Elizabeth Miller of Dubuque, and Gabriella Cronbaugh of Iowa City; one grandson; and two sisters, Carol (Floyd) Krapfl of Dyersville, and Natalie Brimeyer of South Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother in law, Dale Brimeyer.

Ferd’s family would like to thank Manor Care, the University of Iowa, Finley Wendt Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care.

Memorials may be made to the family.

Steven L. Ohnesorge

Steven Lee “Steve” Ohnesorge, age 71, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on August 10, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Steve’s life, his Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Word of Life Church, 4450 Dodge Street in Dubuque, with Pastor Loren Hirschy officiating. Family and friends of Steve’s may visit prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Steve’s family.

Steve was born on February 21, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Robert and Marguerite (Rosenthal) Ohnesorge.  He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and went traveling with a friend around the country for a couple years, deciding that back home in Dubuque wasn’t so bad after all. He met and married the love of his life, Karen Enga, during a tornado that took the roof off the new Kennedy Mall. Steve and Karen were married the day after Thanksgiving in 1971 and were blessed with 3 children and 48 years together. Steve worked at Rafoth Roofing for a few years, and was then hired by the City of Dubuque where he spent the next 37 years – a few years with the tree crew and then for the Park Dept. where he retired as the Eagle Point Park Foreman.  He loved taking care of the park, meeting and serving the people who would visit, pass through, walk regularly and use the park for picnics, graduations, weddings, the Boy Scouts breakfasts, helping restore the beautiful fish pond and making sure the kids could play in the fountain every year.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Steve include his loving wife,
Karen Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa;

his children/grandchildren/great-grandchildren:
Leigh R. (Jaki Schaefer) Ohnesorge, and daughters Aleigha & Amirah, East Dubuque, IL,
and Ryan M. (Stacy Mess) Ohnesorge, and daughter Hailey, Dubuque, Iowa;

Granddaughter Eryn Ohnesorge, and son Parker (great-grandson), Dubuque, Iowa,

Grandson Thomas Frey, Dubuque, Iowa;

his siblings,
Shirley Williams, East Dubuque, Illinois,
Roberta (Jerry) Valentine, Bernard, Iowa,
Lt. Col. (Ret) Bruce Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa,
Anita White, Dubuque, Iowa,
Rita (Jack) Noel, Dubuque, Iowa;

his sister-in-law, Suzie Ohnesorge, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with many extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Stephanie; 5 siblings: Richard Kirsch, Betty Furlong, Dennis Ohnesorge, Roger Ohnesorge in childhood, and Robert Jr. in infancy; and his brother-in-law, Robert White.

Steve’s family would like to thank Dr. Runde, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, and Stonehill Care Center, for all their professional and compassionate care of Steve and his family.

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

Ivan Keil

Ivan “Ike” Keil, 85, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Mill Valley Care Center.  Private Family Services with burial in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery will be conducted.

In lieu of flowers, memorial fund has been established in Ike’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 Ike Keil Family.

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

Ike was born July 3, 1935 in Bellevue, the son of Rickard “Dick” and Thelma Mae (Hoyt) Keil.  He attended DeVry Technical School in Chicago.  Ike married Janice McCauley on October 14, 1961.  Ike was also an active member of the Army National Guard for 8 years.  He owned and operated Keil Electric where he sold and repaired appliance for many years in Bellevue and the surrounding areas.  Ike was a longtime member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling, and tending his orchard trees.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Janice; children, Marcy (Dale) Cain, Cheryl (Stan) Drey, and Dixie Lennie; grandchildren, Lee and Caleb Cain, Julia Drey, Alicia and Keil Lennie; great-grandchildren, Aailyah, Aliva, Brenton, and Kyna; a sister, Norma Vozzla; a niece, Kemis Hoyt; and nephews, Scott Reed and Eric Axtel.

Ike was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to thank Mill Valley Care Center, Hospice of Jackson County, Dr. Hunter, and Pastor Paul for your care during this time.

Richard Esser

Richard Esser, 76, of Dubuque, died Thursday, August 13, 2020, at his home.

Due to the current pandemic, there will be a celebration of life at a later date.

Richard was born September 16, 1943, in Dubuque, the son of Sylvester and Marcella Esser. On November 3, 1962, he married Betty Leslein at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

He attended Sacred Heart, Loras Acadamy and Wahlert High School.

Rich was an avid walker and enjoyed spending as much time as possible with his family. He loved cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Bears.

Survivors include his wife, Betty of Dubuque, two daughters, Lisa (Rogers) Laugand of PA and Wendy (Shawn) Nuss of Dubuque, two sons, Mike Esser of Dubuque and Mark (Christine) Esser of Grimes, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild, four brothers, Ed (Judy), Gary (Brenda), Robert (Debby) and Don (Ava), one sister-in-law, Ruth Esser Recker and a special god-son, Matt.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Ken and one sister, Mary (Larry) Dolan.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr. Mark Liaboe and his nurse, Trish and the team at Hospice of Dubuque, Tammie, Ryan, Kelli and Angela.

Memorial contributions may be sent to Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, Attn: Esser Family, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Harold’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Rev. Harold J. Drexler

Rev. Harold John Drexler, 98, died Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at Stonehill Franciscan Services in Dubuque.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Harold will be celebrated 10:30 AM Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Church, Dubuque with Archbishop Michael Jackels presiding. Visitation will be at the church from 9:15 AM until the time of the funeral. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery, Dyersville. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #137. 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 Harold’s family.

Born March 22, 1922 in Dyersville, Iowa, to parents William and Irene Mock Drexler, Father Drexler studied as an undergraduate at Loras College in Dubuque and with the Maryknoll Fathers and Brothers, a missionary religious order based in New York, before entering major seminary.

He enlisted in the United States Army in 1943 and served with the 139th Army Airways Communications Squadron during the Pacific Theater in the Philippines and Japan. He was honorably discharged in 1946 as a Sergeant.

He graduated with a degree in theology from St. Mary Seminary in Baltimore, Maryland. Archbishop Leo Binz ordained Father Drexler to the priesthood on May 21, 1955 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.

His first assignment was as the assistant pastor at the parishes of Sacred Heart in Rockwell, St. Lawrence in Swaledale and St. John in Carrsvile (1955-56). He then ministered as assistant pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Waterloo (1956-61), Sacred Heart in Dubuque (1961-66) and St. Mary Parish in Dike (1966-70). From 1970-72, Father Drexler served at the parishes of St. John the Baptist in West Ridge and St. Patrick in Waukon.

Father Drexler first took on the role of pastor in 1972, ministering at the parishes of Sacred Heart in Volga and St. Joseph in Wadena until 1976. He was then pastor at St. Boniface Parish in New Vienna (1976-86). In 1986, he became pastor of St. Luke in Hopkinton and Immaculate Conception in Sand Springs, where he served until his retirement from active ministry in 1997. In 1989, Father Drexler was moderator for the Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) in the Independence Deanery. At the time of his death, Father Drexler was the eldest priest of the Archdiocese of Dubuque.

He had a sister, Catherine Terrey, and two nephews of California.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Harold’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Patricia E. Shaffer

Patricia E. “Pat” (Tracy) Shaffer, age 79, of Dubuque, was called home unexpectedly at 11:55 a.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2020, at her son’s home, with her loving family by her side. To celebrate Pat’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, August 16, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Due to the COVID-19 mandate by the City of Dubuque, face masks are required for all in attendance. To honor Pat’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 5:00 p.m., on Sunday at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date following cremation.

Pat was born on November 10, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Edward and Mildred (Duccini) Tracy.

Pat attended St. Mary’s Grade School and Dubuque Senior High School.  After school Pat was united in marriage to Richard “Dick” Shaffer on June 11, 1960, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.  They were blessed with almost 57 years together, and 5 children before Dick passed away on May 20, 2017.  Pat was a devoted full time wife, mom and homemaker, who also shared her talents outside of the home with several places after the children were grown.  In her free time, Pat enjoyed going to the library to get a new murder mystery to read, or going for a walk, with the grandkids and dog in tow, spending plenty of time socializing with neighbors along the way.  She had a phenomenal memory and a gift for storytelling which provided hours of entertainment for family and friends.  She also put her gift of gab to good use visiting elderly people who were homebound, bringing a smile to their days.  Pat was very generous with her time, talents and gifts, she would literally give someone the shirt off her back if they needed it. She loved her family and spoiling the grandkids with ice cream earned her the nickname “Grandma Ice Cream”.  She also looked forward to giving out heaping amounts of candy every Halloween, making her house a definite stop on the neighborhood trick-or-treat route.  We are extremely grateful for all of the love that mom has shown us, and the beautiful memories we have created throughout the years.  We will miss hearing you singing around the house, and will think of you every time we hear Patsy Cline’s song,  “Crazy”, on the radio.  Mom was a strong and dedicated woman who taught us countless life lessons that we will pass on to our own families for generations to come.  She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

her 4 sons,
Greg (Joy) Shaffer, Dubuque, IA,
Steve (Maryann) Shaffer, Dubuque, IA,
Jeff (fiancé Laura Francis) Shaffer, Dubuque, IA
and Eric (Kristi) Shaffer, Robins, IA;

13 grandchildren;

9 great-grandchildren;

her 10 siblings,
Carol Tracy,
Duane Tracy,
Dick (Rhonda) Tracy,
Larry Tracy,
Edward (Charlotte) Tracy,
Vicky (Ron) Schap,
Susie (Larry) Oswald,
Julie (Stan) Hogan,
Debbie (Allen) Dellabella
and Annette (Dick) Duddeck;

and a brother-in-law,
Clarence Norton.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dick; a daughter, Gail Mussehl; a sister, Diane Norton; and a sister-in-law, Gloria Tracy.

Pat’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Peggy, Ryan and Kristen, for all of their kind and loving care and support.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Pat Shaffer Family.

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