Obituaries Archive

Helen O. Hogan

Helen O. Hogan, 93, of Luxemburg passed away peacefully, Sunday, November 17, 2019, at the Guttenberg Care Center.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville. A visitation will continue from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Thursday at the funeral home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2019, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Noah Diehm will officiate.

Helen was born January 23, 1926, the daughter of John and Theresa (Stelken) Fruth. She married Vincent P. Hogan on September 28, 1948, in Colesburg, Iowa. Helen and Vincent began their marriage of almost 63 years farming in the Ryan area for three years before moving to the family farm near Luxemburg. She loved to socialize with family and friends and regularly played cards and went fishing. Helen loved to travel, her favorite travel companion was Vince. She enjoyed meeting with friends for morning coffee and was especially proud of being a member of the Luxemburg quilting ladies. She was happiest when she was able to spend time with her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

Survivors include her 7 children: Roger (Mary) Hogan of Luxemburg, Jerry (Kathy) Hogan of Poynette, WI, Ron (Sherrie) Hogan of Dyersville, Marilyn (Ron) Schultz of Holy Cross, Dan (Deb) Hogan of Guttenberg, Mike Hogan of Holy Cross, Carol Lau of Guttenberg; 15 grandchildren: Bill (Sara) Hogan, Steven (Kathy) Hogan, Marcia (Matt) Fiegen, Bob (Andrea) Hogan, Eric (Terri) Hogan, Jenny (JJ) Coohey, Trisha (Jeff) Thier, Kelly (Tom) Ahmann, Stephanie (Brian) Gogel, Ryan (Ashley) Schultz, Jamie (Janet) Hogan, Terry (Melissa) Hogan, Ben (Ashley) Hogan, Jessica (Nick) Smith, Amber (Rusty) Meyer; 3 step grandchildren: Jason (Alex) Rath, Justin Rath, Chris (Heather) Rath, 36 great grandchildren, 9 step great grandchildren, in-laws: Jack (Carol) Hogan and Phil (Deanna) Hogan, both of Colesburg, James Helle of Edgewood and Laverne “Bud” Domeyer of Petersburg.

She was preceded in death by her husband Vince in 2011, parents, parents-in-law, Ray and Hilda (Bruggeman) Hogan, 2 children at birth: Joseph and Donna, son-in-law, Wayne Lau, siblings: Gertrude Fruth, Sally (Tony) Pasker, Tony Fruth, Marie (Jim) Thier, in-laws: Joanne Helle and Ellen Domeyer.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary Eulberg and staff at the River Living Center in Guttenberg and also the staff at the Guttenberg Care Center.

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

Arnold L. Koranda

Arnold Koranda, 80, of Dade City, Florida and formerly of Maquoketa Iowa died Friday November 15, 2019 as a result of injuries received in a motor vehicle accident.

Arnold Lee Koranda was born January 8, 1939 in Monmouth, Iowa to Lumir and Velma (Kuehl) Koranda. Arnold was a graduate of Monmouth High School. He married Beverly White on January 18, 1959. She preceded him in death on November 30, 1988. Arnold then married Suzette Novak on October 14, 1989.

Arnold had been a former Maquoketa Police officer and a businessman owning and operating A-1 TV and Appliance and WAKA restaurant for many years before retiring to Florida.

Arnold enjoyed camping (especially with friends and family at the “Old Threshers Reunion” in Mount Pleasant, Iowa), working and keeping busy, talking on the phone and staying up to date with Maquoketa news, attending coffee and Optimist meetings while visiting Maquoketa and spending time with family and his pets namely his dog “Lady” who passed in the same auto accident.

Those left to honor Arnold’s memory include his wife Suzette and his children Pamela (Dale) Arp of Clinton, IA, Brad (Becky) Koranda of Maquoketa, IA, Robert (Robin) Koranda of Maquoketa, IA, Jolene Ledding of Maquoketa, IA and Alisha (Will) Price of Williamston, North Carolina; brother Gene Larry (Barb) Koranda of Monmouth, IA; sister Connie Bonney of Delmar, IA; five grandchildren, Bode (Samantha) Koranda of West Branch, IA, Zachary Arp of Clinton, IA, Brooklyn Koranda of Tipton, IA and Hannah and Savannah Ledding of Maquoketa, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife Beverly.

Cremation will take place in Florida and a Memorial gathering of family and friends celebrating Arnold’s life will be held in Maquoketa at a later date when Suzette has recovered from injuries received in the motor vehicle accident.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Arnold Koranda memorial fund has been established.

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

Hannah R. Ruggeberg

Hannah R. Ruggeberg, 20, of Bellevue and her expecting little angel boy Kashton, passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2019 as a result of an automobile accident.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be one hour prior to services on Wednesday at the church. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

Hannah was born October 22, 1999 in Finley Hospital in Dubuque, the daughter of Jessica Ruggeberg and Orlando Guzman. She most recently worked for Focus in Dubuque as a customer call agent. Hannah enjoyed listening to music, she was proud of her body art, spending time on the river, and watching the Green Bay Packers. She loved spending time with friends and family and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her mother, Jessica Ruggeberg; her father, Orlando Guzman; siblings, Olivia and Ella; her maternal grandparents, John and Jill Ruggeberg; her paternal grandparents, Orlando and Anna Guzman; aunts and uncles, Travis and Kelsey Ruggeberg, Eric and Liz Ruggeberg; cousins, Carter and Griffin; and numerous other relatives.

Hannah was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal great grandparents; Ralph and Marjorie Ruggeberg, and Lavern “Lefty” and Shirley Keil, great uncle’s David Ruggeberg, Ronald Ruggeberg, and Wayne Scheckel, great aunt Phyllis Turnis, and cousins Scott Ruggeberg and Miranda Scheckel.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Hannah’s memory.

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

Janet E. Temperly

Janet Elaine Temperly, age 82, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Friday, Nov. 15, 2019 at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community after a long battle with breast cancer.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at the West Ella Highland Cemetery, Apple River, with Pastor Libby Rutherford officiating.

She was born in Council Hill, IL on Sept. 12, 1937, the daughter of Charles Temperly and Sadie (Dittmar) Temperly. She was one of the longest living residents of Scales Mound, IL having moved there in 1941. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School for several decades. For many years, she was the family historian serving as Secretary for the Dittmar family reunion. She was a 1954 graduate of Scales Mound Community High School and remained a loyal supporter of the Hornets throughout her life.

After graduating from Iowa Wesleyan College in 1961 with a BA in Education, she taught elementary school for several years.

She is survived by her sister, Joanne Temperly of Weymouth, MA; her niece, Brenda Molife (Jerald Walker) of Hingham, MA; and two grandnephews, Adrian and Dorian.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The Miller & Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Eric J. Jasper

Eric J. Jasper, 59, of Cedar Rapids and formerly of Hopkinton passed away Friday, November 15, 2019, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 pm Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, at St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton where a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 3 pm. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 am Wednesday prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, at St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton with burial in the Hopkinton Cemetery. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Eric was born December 1, 1959, in Monticello, IA, the son of Larry and Mary Frances (Turnis) Jasper. Eric graduated from Maquoketa Valley High School in 1978. While he was in high school he participated in baseball and football, and was a captain of the football team in his senior year. He worked at Swiss Valley Farms in Hopkinton. Following high school he attended Kirkwood Community College and enrolled in Palmer Chiropractic College, when, on May 17, 1981, he was in a motorcycle accident resulting in a spinal cord injury causing paraplegia. In 1986, he graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in General Studies, after which he sold real estate, insurance and investments. He was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton, Knights of Columbus Council 12965 and the Hopkinton Lions Club.

Eric loved the Chicago Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes! He enjoyed attending concerts and visiting with people. He had a remarkable memory for dates and details! He was the family resource go-to person who had a tremendously positive outlook on life considering his condition. Eric will be dearly missed by his family!

Survivors include his mother, Mary Frances Jasper of Hopkinton, siblings: Jeff (Laurie) of Cedar Rapids and their sons, Jonathan (Alyssa) and their children, Ady and Sawyer of Urbandale, IA, Matthew of Colorado Springs, CO, and David of Cedar Rapids; Jan Jasper of Iowa City, Scott (Susan) of Sherman, TX, and Jamie (Kathy) and their grandson, Braxton Davis of Central City.

He was preceded in death by his father on January 30, 2012, maternal grandparents, Frank and Mary Turnis, and paternal grandparents, Frank and Esther Jasper.

Memorials are preferred to Camp Courageous of Iowa, the Hopkinton Library, or St. Luke Catholic Church.

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

Norma C. Murray

Norma C. (Brimeyer) Murray, one of the sweetest women you ever had the pleasure of meeting, was called home peacefully on Friday, November 15, 2019, at home.  To honor Norma’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating.  To celebrate Norma’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 Saint Joseph Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m.  Burial will be in St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, Placid, Iowa.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Norma was born on December 18, 1926, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, daughter of Walter and Catherine (Klaas) Brimeyer.  She first worked at the family’s general store in Buenie and later at Western Auto in Dubuque, where she met her future husband, Jim.  Norma and Jim were married on October 13, 1948, at Immaculate Conception Church in North Buena Vista.  Norma was a stay-at-home mom until the youngest of her seven children entered school.  She then worked for many years at K-Mart, at the layaway and service desks, as well as being a front door greeter.  While there, she enjoyed writing poetry for fellow employees on special occasions.  Norma was a long-time member of St. Joseph the Worker parish.  She belonged to the Catholic Daughters, Mother’s Prayer Group and Power of Prayer Chapel.

Those left to cherish Norma’s memory include

her children,
Tom (Cathy) Murray,
Sheila (Buck) Schultz,
Dan (Sue) Murray,
Bill (Glynnie Wylie) Murray,
Marylou (Terry) Driscoll,
Michael Murray, (her care giver for many years),
and Cathy (Jerry) McConnell;

she was Nana to her grandchildren, Jessa (Cody) Roberdeau, Zach (Angie) Schultz, Sarah (Bryan) Fitting, Mandy (Fiancé Freddy Tuggle) Murray, Joe (Trina) Murray, Kristi (Jason) Cottrell, Elizabeth Wylie, Lydia Wylie and Melanie McConnell;

she was also Nana to her great-grandchildren, Winn Roberdeau, Landon and Jude Schultz, Brigid Fitting, Rowan and Brynn Murray;

and is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim; a brother, Leon (Grace) Brimeyer; a sister, Mary Adele; and her brothers-in-law, Carl Heer and Merle Houselog.

Norma’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Paul and Alicia, and her niece, Janet Heer, for their care.

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

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

Sister Marie Neff, BVM

Sister Marie Neff, BVM (Charles Marie), 90, of 1130 Carmel Dr., Dubuque, Iowa, died Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, at Caritas Center.

Visitation will be from 9-10:15 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in the Marian Hall Chapel. Sharing of Memories will be at 10:15 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Marie was an elementary teacher in San Francisco and Petaluma, Calif.; Omaha and Lincoln, Nebr.; Wichita, Kans.; and Hickman Mills and Kansas City, Mo., where she also served as principal.  She was an office staff member in Bonner Springs, Kansas.

She was born June 11, 1929, in Kansas City, Mo., to Charles and Mary Riley Neff. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1946, from St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, Kans. She professed first vows on March 19, 1949, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1954.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Mary Ellen Hueneke, Margaret Driskill and Helen Theno; brothers: Charles and John Neff.  She is survived by a sister Catherine Hashman, Lenexa, Kans.; nieces, nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 73 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

James L. Kraus

James L. Kraus, 81, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Thursday, November 14, 2019 at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Jim will be held from 1 to 7 p.m., Sunday, November 17, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where the Farley American Legion will meet at 4:30 p.m. and the Farley Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home in Farley. Services for Jim will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 18, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa with full Military Honors afforded by the .

Jim was born March 30, 1938 in Farley, Iowa, son of Leo J. and Alvina C. (Schmitt) Kraus. He is a graduate of the former St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Farley, Iowa. On October 13, 1962 he was united in marriage to Phyllis Oberbroeckling. She preceded him in death on May 10, 1996. On February 18, 2000 he was united in marriage to Sue (Sweeney) Konzen.

He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years until his retirement in 1994. He was a member of Rolling Knolls golf course where he proudly mowed the “rough” for over 20 years. Jim also worked with his friends at Reiff Funeral Home for several years. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes, Cubs and Bears fan and enjoyed playing cards with his friends.

He was a Veteran, having served in the Air Force for 4 years. He entered the service on Sept. 6, 1956 at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX he went on to Ground and Intercept Radio Operator school at Keisler AFB. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley the Altar and Rosary society, choir, and served on the Parish Council and school Board. He was a former member of the Farley City Council, the Farley Park Board and the Farley Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Kraus of Farley, IA; four children; Kevin Kraus (Rene Kelly) of Dubuque, Kurt (Sue) Kraus of Marion, Kim (Bob) Nauman of Iowa City and Kent (Andrea) Kraus of Peosta; 10 grandchildren; Sue’s children, Andy Konzen of Farley, Marty (Bobbi) Konzen of Dubuque, Tracey (Nick) Reicher of Hopkinton; 8 grandchildren; his father and mother-in-law, Jim and Lois Sweeney; two sisters, Mary Westermeyer of Dyersville and Irene (Larry) Scherrman of Farley and; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Carol Coyle of Cascade, Jane (Ron) Deutmeyer of Dyersville, Marge (Rick) Gansemer of Rickardsville, Barb Sweeney, Nancy (Brian) Schlueter both of Dyersville, Jr. (Angie Bennett) Sweeney of Farley, Karen (Keith) Neyen of Farley, Lois Oberbroeckling of Waterloo, Tom (Joanne) Oberbroeckling of Dyersville, Jan (Ron) Boeckenstedt of Waterloo, Dianne (Dennis) Duve of Luxemburg, and Betty Kraus of Dubuque.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ralph (Elizabeth) Kraus, Bill Kraus, sisters, Doris (Ken) Kemp and Melita (Harry) O’Neill; and brothers-in-law, Carlton Westermeyer, Bob Oberbroeckling, Jim Oberbroeckling and Pat Coyle.

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

Memorials for Jim maybe given to Hope Lodge in Iowa City or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.

Monita O. Hayes Ebersole

Monita Orrelle Hayes Ebersole, 97, of Maquoketa, Iowa, arrived at her Heavenly Home on Wednesday morning, November 13, 2019, while sleeping in her home on the farm.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, November 22, 2019, at the Delmar United Methodist Church in Delmar, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2019, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Monita Orrelle Hayes was born on March 27, 1922 in Palo, Iowa, to Rutherford “Burm” and Minnie “Shuggie” (Rabe) Hayes. She was a graduate of Palo High School and then received her 4-year degree from Coe College in Cedar Rapids with graduate college courses being taken at Marycrest College.

Monita was a Home Economics and Biology teacher first in Charlotte where she also Coached Girls Basketball and Softball and was the Assistant High School Principal. She then taught at Delmar (and later Delwood) where she met the love of her life, Melvin LeRoy “Pete” Ebersole, when she was the scorekeeper for the Delmar High School Alumni basketball game in which he was playing. They were married on June 3, 1948 at Trinity Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. To this union two daughters were born, Connie and Carolyn. Melvin died on July 3, 1976 after 28 years of marriage, and Monita quickly became a farm manager as well.

Monita was an active and devoted member of the Delmar United Methodist Church and the United Methodist Women. She had a special relationship with God, her family and friends. She shared and lived her faith in God. She passionately worked in the Methodist Church as an MYF leader, Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School teacher, Shepherdess in UMW for Dubuque District, and Lay Leader. Additionally, she was a member of the Iowa State Education Association, New Century Club, and was a charter member of the Maquoketa Peace Pipe Players.

Monita was an excellent cook and people were always happy to receive her cinnamon rolls, caramel and pecan rolls, pies, jams, jellies and pickles. She loved teaching school and was frequently visited by former students. She also painted fine Bavarian China, crocheted afghans, made beautiful quilts, was a 4-H leader, led classes making Christmas decorations, and Holiday baking. She will be remembered for the lifelong gifts she leaves for all: faith in God, love, kindness, honesty, integrity, compassion, and a fun, joyful spirit.

Those left to honor her memory include her daughters, Connie (Joel) Zamastil of Wyoming, IA, and Carolyn (Larry) Munson of Cedar Rapids, IA; a grandson Jason (Allison) Zamastil; 1 great-grandson on the way in January; special son Dan Heister; special daughter Stacey Heister; dear and special friends, Bethene and Antane Nelson; and nieces, nephews and neighbors.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a brother Curtis Hayes, and sisters Janice Dauenbaugh and Lois Rasmus.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Delmar United Methodist Church.

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

Duwain Kuper

Duwain Kuper, 84, of Scotch Grove, Iowa passed away Thursday, November 14, 2019, at St. Luke’s Unity Point Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, November 17, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello, Iowa. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 18, 2019 at Kramer Funeral Home, Monticello, with burial in Oakwood Cemetery. Pastor Matt Read will officiate.

Duwain was born November 1, 1935, in Stanley, Iowa, the son of August and Milly (Rickels) Kuper. He attended Monticello High School and graduated in 1953. In his early years he worked construction and drove a milk route and in his spare time he was a star pitcher on his softball team. He had a passion for trout fishing, Rendezvous, and making willow furniture. Duwain was an avid gun collector, a very talented painter and jewelry maker.

Duwain met and married Mary Jane Rees on August 18, 1973 and later divorced. He drove a school bus for 49 years for the Monticello School district. He enjoyed watching his kids’ and grandkids’ sporting events over the years and was a Chicago Bears fan.

Survivors include his two children: Jody (Dave) Lietz, Dan (Gwen) Kuper both of Scotch Grove, grandchildren: Jordan, Trey, and Jayden Kuper, step-grandchildren: Zack Lietz, Hayley (Cole) Carstens, Breeanna and Kristen Lietz, one step-great grandson, Jett Carstens, siblings: Galen Kuper, Janet (Quintin) Davis both of Scotch Grove, two nieces and two nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister-in-law, Ann Kuper and nephew, Steve Kuper.

Duwain aka “Kup” or “Teddy Bear” was loved by anyone who knew him, especially his grandkids who called him “Big Papa”. He will be greatly missed and remembered always.

In lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.

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

Maria A. (Malkiewicz) Pitt

Maria Ann (Malkiewicz) Pitt (March 17, 1972-November 12, 2019) was born in Baltimore, MD. The daughter of Wallace and Rose Malkiewicz of Hagerstown, MD, she attended Smithsburg High School, where she served as drum major and earned the distinction of Salutatorian. It was during those years that she developed her love of theater, playing such roles as Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls and Agnes in Agnes of God with the Washington County Playhouse.

She began her studies at the Catholic University of America planning to major in drama, but her transformative experiences living and working within Campus Ministry led her to shift to religious studies, and she graduated in 1993 with a BA in Religion. Her commitment to social justice and her driving concern for the poor and vulnerable led her to participate in Jesuit Volunteer Corps, working as a job developer at St. Joseph the Worker in Phoenix, AZ. That year was transformative for her; in her words, “I came here to St. Joseph the Worker hoping to change the world, but I leave hoping that I have been changed.”

Ultimately, these commitments drew her to graduate work in moral theology at Yale Divinity School. She regarded her studies under Margaret Farley as being particularly influential. While at Yale she was awarded the Tew Prize for High Achievement in the field of ethics and worked both as director of the President’s Public Service Fellowship at Yale and as a researcher in the Beinecke Rare Books Library. Graduating with a Master of Arts in Religion in 1996, she then began further studies in moral theology at the University of Notre Dame as a Presidential Fellow. While at Notre Dame she met her best friends, Nancy Johnson and Robert Lawrence, as well as her husband, David Pitt.

Maria and Dave were married in South Bend, IN in 2004. Shortly afterwards they moved to Charlotte, NC, where their first daughter, Emmelia, was born. They moved to Dubuque, IA in 2007, where their second daughter, Theodora, was born.

Maria served for several years as an adjunct instructor in philosophy at Clarke University, and developed courses on the philosophy of women, and political philosophy. Her academic interests merged with her continued commitment to issues of justice, leading to her work as a legal advocate at the Riverview Center in Galena, IL where she worked with victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault, assisting them to represent themselves in the courtroom. In this work, she discovered her passion for the law. She worked as a legal assistant for Craig Brown in Galena, during which time she earned a law degree from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in St. Paul, MN, graduating summa cum laude in May 2019. She looked forward to opening her own law practice to continue her lifelong commitment to justice and to advocacy for the vulnerable.

Maria is survived by her parents, her husband, and her daughters. Additionally, she is survived by her in-laws, Roger and Valerie Pitt, Kim and Michael Male, and her nephews, Andrew and Matthew Male, and her uncles, aunts, and cousins in Maryland. Maria was preceded in death by her grandparents, Grace and Daniel Montgomery, and Virginia and Walter Malkiewicz.

Prayer and fellowship commemorating Maria’s life will be held on Sunday, November 17 at Wartburg Theological Seminary, beginning at 4:30pm, and followed by an opportunity to visit together. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to either St. Joseph the Worker in Phoenix, AZ or the Southern Poverty Law Center.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in care of arrangements. A TributeVideo can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Maria’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Ricky L. Coble

Ricky Lee Coble, 56, of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, November 12, at Manor Care.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, November 17, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., where there will be a funeral service at 2 p.m.

Ricky was born March 5, 1963 in Ottumwa, the son of Walter “Dick” and Margaret (Hutton) Coble. He graduated from Hempstead High School. Ricky was employed at Old Navy for 10 years, Goodwill, and McDonald’s. He enjoyed travelling all over, and especially enjoyed spending time in Arizona. Ricky was also a fan of country music.

Ricky is survived by his parents, Walter “Dick” and Margaret Coble; his brother, Russell (Diane) Coble of Johnston, IA; his sister, Sherri (Larry) Tscharner of Dubuque; his nieces and nephews, Nicole Tscharner of Dubuque, Kara (Russell) Simon and their daughter Madelyn, of Dubuque, and Austin, Chris, and Tristan Coble, all of Johnston, IA; and many aunts and uncles.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Walter and Ruth Coble; and his maternal grandparents, Ralph and Edna Hutton.

The family would like to thank the staff at Manor Care, especially the rehab center.

Memorials may be made to the Ricky Lee Coble Memorial Fund.

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

Kaiyuan Song

Kaiyuan Song, age 65 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Kaiyuan’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kaiyuan’s family.

Kaiyuan was born on November 11, 1954 in China, the only son to Tianfu Song and Zhuying Ye.  He spent his life working as a civil servant and raising his family until they were able to move to the United States in 2013.  Kaiyuan was a good and decent man who continually loved, protected and provided for his family.  His kind heart and commitment to all that is good will surely be missed by all who knew and loved him.  Thank you, Kaiyuan, for always being the perfect role model and for never giving up on the opportunities which, both rarely and often, present themselves in life.  We are all blessed because of your devotion to others and will forever remember you through the abundance of beautiful memories you leave behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kaiyuan include,

his loving wife,
Fenge Wang, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 3 children,
Ping (Hong Tang) Song, Dubuque, Iowa,
Xiao Jun (Tain Peng) Song, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Xiao Ling (Liquan Liu “Michael”) Song, Asbury, Iowa;

his 4 grandchildren;
Miao Miao Zou, Jinyu Song, Yini Liu and Cody Liu;

his sister,
Manhua (Yatian Wang) Song, China;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Kaiyuan was preceded in death by his parents.

Kaiyuan’s family would like to thank Dr. Cao, and the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their professional and compassionate care and support of Kaiyuan, and his family throughout the past few months.

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

James E. Hayward

James E. “Jim” Hayward, 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, November 12, 2019, at his home in Maquoketa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Esgate Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, with military honors.

James Edward Hayward was born on January 4, 1932 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to George and Luella (Marburger) Hayward. He was a 1951 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army from October 15, 1952 until receiving an honorable discharge on August 11, 1954. He married Janice K. Hovey on October 3, 1959 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Upon returning home from the military, “Jim” worked at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa as a buyer in the purchasing department from 1954 to 1966. He then moved to Beloit, Wisconsin where he worked for Fairbanks Morse as the purchasing manager from 1966 to 1981. He had lived in Beloit until 1991 when he returned to Maquoketa.

“Jim” enjoyed having coffee at City Limits, hunting with his brother Bill, playing cards, and visiting with neighbors. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers fan. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Janice K. Hayward of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jamie (Jim) Austin of Janesville, WI, Jeffrey (Geri) Hayward of Preston, IA, and Jason (Kris) Hayward of Cedar Rapids, IA; 19 grandchildren and 35 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two children Donald Brewer and Jennifer White, a grandchild Ciara Hayward, brothers Russell, George, William, Donald, and Louie, and a sister Joyce.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County, Jackson County Veteran’s Memorial Park or any veteran’s organization.
Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Dennis C. Driscoll

Dennis C. Driscoll, 62, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Monday, November 11, 2019 at MercyOne in Dubuque, Iowa after a well fought courageous battle with Diabetes.

Visitation for Denny will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Thursday, November 14, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa where the Epworth Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Friday, November 15, 2019 at the funeral home in Epworth.

Mass of Christian Burial for Denny will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 15, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

He was born January 2, 1957 in Monticello, Iowa, son of Merlin E. and Catherine A. (Fischer) Driscoll. He was a 1975 graduate of the Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, IA. On November 11, 1989 he was united in marriage to Gwen Hall at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa. Denny was a self-taught and accomplished Auto Mechanic for 35 years. During this time he owned and operated Denny’s Automotive in Epworth from 1989 and 2011. He then worked until his retirement at Mausser Auto in New Vienna, IA.

He was a member of the St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, IA. Denny was also an active member of Timberline Golf Course. He loved to play golf and was a member of many golf leagues and especially his Golf God’s Team for Wednesday night league, where he was the captain. He also enjoyed playing Semi Fast Softball for Anstoetter Construction Team and Slow Pitch Kings and Queens. Denny loved to entertain and have a good time with his family and friends where he would smoke meat on his big green egg. Denny loved watching sports, especially his beloved Hawkeyes.

He is survived by his wife, Gwen Hall-Driscoll of Epworth, IA; two fur babies, Charlotte and Gabby; siblings, James (Mary Jo) Driscoll of Graf, IA, Mike (Sheila) Driscoll of Cascade, IA, Steve Driscoll of Epworth, IA, Jason (Kelly) Driscoll of Norfolk, NE, Barbara Ernzen of Epworth, IA, Marilyn Driscoll of Galena, IA, Janice Koob of Cascade, IA and Christine (Dean) Schrader of Monticello, IA; mother-in-law, Gayle Hall of Epworth, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Annette Hall (Mike Hodge) of Dubuque, IA and Dana (Dennis) Kramer of Farley, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John and Dennis Driscoll in infancy; one sister, Sharon Johnson; two brothers-in-law, Mel Ernzen and Martin Strief; and father-in-law, Thomas H. Hall; great nephew, Thaddeus Ernzen; great neice, Hope Marie Driscoll-Hebgen.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Dr. Ringold, Dr. Roger Ott Jr., Dr. Ramabadran and Nurses Amanda and Shayla and Tri-State Dialysis for all the wonderful care and support they gave to Denny.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com