Obituaries Archive

John J. Caldwell

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

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

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

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

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

his 3 Godchildren,
Michael, Kenny and Kelsey;

and several nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by both of his parents.

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

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. John Caldwell Family.

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

Kenneth C. Roddick

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Holmes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ruth M. Casteel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Edna M. Wolter

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Earl J. Alexander

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

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

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

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

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

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

Donna J. (White) Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Robert J. Koster

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marian J. Taylor

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Online Condolences: www.martinschwartzfuneralhomes.com

Kaye B. Slocum

With heartfelt sorrow and loving memories, we are announcing the passing of Kaye “Nick” B. Slocum at age 84. Loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend to all he met. Dad passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Mercy Hospital, Dubuque. Due to COVID there will be no funeral services at this time; a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Nick was born in Cedar Rapids the son of Dale and Emma Jane Slocum. Nick attended Roosevelt High school in Cedar Rapids graduating with the class of 1955 and went on to attain his Electronic Communications Technician degree at Kirkwood. He retired from Rockwell Collins after 40 years of employment in Quality Control, while also serving in the United States Marine Reserves.

No words can sum up one man’s life when everything he did, he did to the fullest. Everything from long walks with the love of his life Kathy, to speed skating with the Hawkeye Speed Skating club, bike tours with the Hawkeye Bicycle Association, the YMCA, the Salvation Army Senior board, racquetball, pickle-ball, fishing, and birdwatching on the back deck, these were some of his favorite hobbies.

Nick will always be remembered for his humor, his crazy antics, his great love for his family, and being a jack-of-all-trades. Dad taught us all so much throughout his life; a little bit of him will continue to live on because of this.

Nick is survived by his wife Kathleen Ann Slocum; four children, Michele ”Dennis” Hahn of Amana, Colette Stocks-Slocum of Cedar Rapids, Valerie “Kelly” Allen of Peosta, Nicholas Slocum of Dubuque. Twelve grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Dale and Emma Jane Slocum and Sister JoAnn Blazek.

In lieu of flowers donations can be donated to the Salvation Army, Dubuque, Iowa.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road in Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Sandra F. Smith

Sandra Faye Smith, 77 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on October 31, 2020 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital. Private family service and burial will be held at Mueller Chapel, Linwood Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com. A celebration of Sandy’s life to gather, share love and toasts will be held in the spring for all of her family and friends.

Sandy was born on October 28, 1943 in Knoxville, TN the daughter of Vernon and Frances (Bible) Smith.

Sandy moved to Dubuque to work as a pre-need counselor for Linwood Cemetery. She would tell her Dubuque friends, “I am only here for a year!” That year extended to 35 years as General Manager of Linwood Cemetery. She took pride in establishing the avenue of over 300 flags that would be on display every Memorial Day at the cemetery. Sandy spear-headed bringing the Vietnam wall to Linwood in 1998, giving many tri-state veterans time to reflect. It was a thrill for her to lead the wall out on the back of Rick’s Harley.

Sandy worked tirelessly to make Linwood one the most beautiful cemeteries in the state. You would always find Sandy mowing the grass in the spring or plowing the snow in the winter; she was a hands-on manager. Sandy served as President of the Iowa Cemetery Association for many years. After retirement from Linwood, Sandy dabbled at various jobs to keep busy. She enjoyed her position with RTA where she transported handicapped individuals to sheltered employment jobs. Every holiday she would put festive hats on to bring laughter and smiles to her clients.

Free time you would find Sandy on her boat, fishing in the Mississippi or on lakes in Minnesota with one or two of her dogs helping her “catch the big one”. Sandy was famous for her fish fries at Midtown Marina, sharing the bounty with her friends.

There wasn’t an animal that came into her life that she didn’t love or spoil. She will be sadly missed by her “Doodle” Bella who was the love of of her life. Bella was always by her side giving her kisses and snuggles. Bella will now be with her sister doodles Mia and Molly, whom Sandy adored too.

Sandy often said that when she passed away a lot of people will not know who Sandy Smith was. To her Dubuque friends, she was “Linwood” and then dubbed “Wood” by her three boys (Jaxon, Willem and Grey) that loved her so.

Sandy is survived by her sister Judy Cooper (Gene Torres), of Delray Beach, Florida; a niece Melissa Johnson and nephews Michael and Marcus Cooper along with many friends who loved her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her niece Michelle Cooper.

Thank you to the entire staff at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital as well as Dr. Kristin Nelson and Joannie for all their care and kindness. A special thank you to Alex at UnityPoint at Home who provided Sandy the best care as well as a few laughs on the way!

“So here is to you Sandy, Linwood, Wood; we love you and we hope you are flying and breathing free finally. You will be so missed.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the Dubuque Humane Society.

George K. Arvanitis

George K. Arvanitis, 87, of Dubuque, died Monday, November 2, 2020, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Private visitation and services will be held due to the current pandemic. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. We encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a message to George’s family.

George was born March 13, 1933, in Konioitsa, Greece, the son of Constantine and Dimitra Arvanitis. On December 1, 1957, he married Martha Charalambos in Chicago. She passed away on January 19, 1994.

George owned and operated Busy Bee Cafe in Dubuque for 46 years. He was a long-time member of St. Elias the Prophet Greek Orthodox Church.

Survivors include one daughter, Elaine (Kevin) Kluesner of Dubuque; three grandsons, Jimmy George (Samantha) Kluesner, Yianni Kluesner and Tommy Kluesner, all of Dubuque; two great-granddaughters, Kali Mae and Skylee Jo, both of Dubuque and many family in Greece.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Martha and his parents.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorial contributions to Luther Manor Hillcrest, Luther Manor Grand Meadows or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to extend their deep appreciation to the entire staff at Luther Manor/Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for their amazing care and hearts of gold.

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

Elizabeth J. Bahl

Elizabeth “Bess” Jovita Bahl, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, October 30, 2020, at Luther Manor.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 7,  at Church of the Nativity. Rev. Greg Bahl will officiate. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to  6 p.m. Friday, November 6,  at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. We kindly request that social distancing be observed; masks are required. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Bess was born March 31, 1931 in Dubuque, the daughter of Joseph W. and Helen (Cadden) Hennings. She married Philip Clair Bahl on December 27, 1952 at Church of the Nativity. He preceded her in death on August 12, 2020.

Bess graduated from Visitation Academy in 1949, as one of the “49 ‘49ers”, and went on to  graduate from Dubuque Beauty Academy. She was a devoted homemaker, and enjoyed reading and sewing. Bess was a long-time in-home daycare provider. She was a lifetime member of Nativity parish, and was a member of the Nativity Guild.

Bess is survived by her children, Keith (Teresa) Bahl of Marion, IA, Ellen (Dr. Randall) Schmitt of Fulton, IL, and Kathy (John) FitzPatrick of Dubuque; her grandchildren Kayla (Kyle) Martin and Amy (Curt) Smejkal, Dr. Philip (Stephanie) Schmitt and Dr. Joseph Schmitt, Kevin (Maurita) FitzPatrick and Maureen (Erik) Johnson; her great-grandchildren, Lauren, Olivia, Noah, Will, Lucy, and Colin, and one due in March; her sisters-in-law, Mary Ann (John) Hansen, Shirley Bahl; and a special niece, Sally (Jeff) Lux.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Thomas “Dutch” Hennings; her sister, Mida (Jerry) Weber; and her siblings-in-law, Robert (Wilma) Bahl, James (Mary) Bahl, Daniel (Ruby) Bahl, David Bahl, Dorothy (Lester) Camfield, and Marjorie (Joe) Temple.

Shirley A. Schueller

Shirley A. Schueller, 86, of Dubuque, and formerly of Peosta, Iowa, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2020 at Luther Manor. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 5, at Church of the Resurrection. Rev. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Mass will be live-streamed on the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home Facebook page. Interment will be in Holy Family Cemetery, New Melleray. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Masks and social distancing are required at the visitation and Mass. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com. 


Shirley was born in Glen Haven, Wisconsin, was the daughter of Ralph Marshall and Mary Myers.  Shirley attended Blake Prairie School in Glen Haven, and graduated from Senior High School in Dubuque.  Shirley was united in marriage to Donald Schueller, October 23, 1951, Holy Ghost Church, Dubuque. Together they raised 5 children, Duane (Margie), Doug (Chris) Daryl, Mary Rose, Steve (Pam). The family grew to include 14 grandchildren, 3 step grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren, 4 step great grandchildren; and a very special friend of the family, Sharon Burds.  In 1968 Shirley and Don moved to Peosta, Iowa and farmed.



Shirley had beautiful landscaping abilities and was well known as an excellent cook.  Her family was number one importance to her, every summer she invited each grandchild to stay at grandma and grandpa’s farm.  She was a hardworking farmer’s wife.  Shirley and children ran the dairy side of farming, while Don worked at John Deere and ran the crops and pork side of the farm.  Shirley was proud of her Holstein Dairy herd.  Shirley was also an excellent seamstress, and greatly enjoyed quilting, and fabric shopping before her health declined. 

Shirley was a woman of strong faith, she was President of the Rosary Society at Holy Ghost Parish, Dubuque, and also later at Holy Family, New Melleray Parish, Peosta, IA.

She will be greatly missed by her four sons and daughter. 



She was preceded in death by her husband Don in 2015; her parents; a grandson, Corey Schueller; and her siblings, Dorothy Clark, Betty Brennan, Phyllis Lambert, and Donald Marshall. 



The family would like to extend a thank you to the personnel at Luther Manor who cared for Shirley. A special thanks to Mary Schmidt and Christy Whiteman of Resurrection Church. Thank you also to Hospice of Dubuque.

Charles G. Bahl

Charles George Bahl, 84, of Dubuque, died Saturday, October 31, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation for Charles will be held on Monday, November 9, 2020 from 9:30 am until 10:30 am at Church of the Resurrection. Due to the city mask mandate, masks are required at the church. 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 Charles’s family. The Mass of Christian Burial for Charles will be Monday, November 9, 2020 at 10:30 am at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque. 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.

Charles was born November 24, 1935, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Joseph and Viola Savary Bahl. He graduated from Loras Academy and on November 26, 1955, he married Shirley V. Dupont at St. Anthony Catholic Church. She passed away on October 5, 2017. Charles was a self-employed farmer and a former employee for Dubuque Pack.

Charles loved fishing, hunting and spending summers at his cabin in Minnesota on Eagle Lake. He also served as a volunteer firefighter for Asbury Fire Department. Charles was an avid Cubs fan.

He is survived by his three children, Nancy (Frank Boffeli) Koch of Guttenberg, Kevin (Jody Dirks) Bahl of Dubuque and Scott Bahl (former wife Sarah) of Dubuque; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Miller Bahl; his grandchildren, Quinn, Adam, Wade, Sondra, Bryce, Adam, Ethan, Joseph, Hannah, Jackson, Elayna and Meredith; six great-grandchildren; two brothers, Joseph Bahl of Dubuque and Thomas Bahl of Cascade; three sisters, Betty Allen of Dubuque, Joanita Betts of Dubuque and Mary O’Hea of Dubuque and one sister-in-law, Patricia Lange of Rockford, IL.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Douglas Bahl; one daughter, Jean Kliebenstein Koren and her husband, Steven Koren; two sisters, Janet Dupont and Susan Wilson; a sister-in-law, Betty (Jack) Dale; and five brothers-in-law, Robert Allen, Robert Betts, Del O’Shea, Edward Lange and Donald Dupont.

A memorial has been established.

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