Obituaries Archive

Gene E. Hagy

Gene E. Hagy, 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, October 22, 2019, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, October 25, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Gene Elwood Hagy was born on January 10, 1932 at home in rural Muscatine County to Robert Barton and Lydia Iva (Spitznogle) Hagy. He was a graduate of Muscatine High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army receiving an honorable discharge. He married Elizabeth Duemong on September 30, 1951 in Muscatine, Iowa. She preceded him in death on August 10, 2013.

Gene first worked for Hetzler Dairy in Muscatine, and then moved to Maquoketa where he worked for Phillips 66 eventually entering into partnership with Don Small. He then worked for Sieg Auto Parts in Maquoketa for many years, retiring in 1994.

Gene enjoyed remodeling and working on his house, and in recent years playing cards with his coffee group.

Those left to honor Gene’s memory include his daughters, Nancy (Larry) Shell of Muscatine, IA, and Kathy (Perry) Keating of Alburnett, IA; a sister, Alice Passmore of Plymouth, MA; 4 grandchildren, Brian Shell of Ames, IA, Amy Shell of Omaha, NE, Scott (Melissa) Keating of North Liberty, IA, and Sara (Matt) Brace of Cedar Rapids, IA; and 2 great-grandchildren, Emma and Mason, and twins on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, brothers Robert and Glen, and a great-grandson Jack Keating.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Gene E. Hagy memorial fund.

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

Lucille M. Schmalz

Lucille M. Schmalz, 97, of Dubuque, passed away Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 24,  at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Lucille’s brother, Fr. John Lange, will officiate. Private burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery, Dubuque.

Lucille was born July 4, 1922 in Dubuque, the daughter of John and Celia (Roediger) Lange. She married Arthur Schmalz in 1946, and he preceded her in death.

Lucille and Arthur owned and operated several small businesses, including rental businesses, a car wash, and houseboat rentals. She enjoyed boating, telling stories, painting, investing in the stock market, and gardening.  For 30 years, Lucille also enjoyed spending winters in Fort Myers, Florida.

She was an ambitious, energetic person and will be sadly missed.

Lucille is survived by her daughter, Kathyanne (Bob) Norman; her sisters, Rita, Betty, and Phyllis; and her brothers, Fr. John Lange, Carl (Mary) Lange, and Marty Lange.

Lucille’s daughter would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their care of Lucille.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque.

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

Robert E. Connolly

Robert E. “Fritz” Connolly, 80, passed away on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 at Mercy Hospital.

Visitation will be from 1:00 pm until 3:00 pm Saturday, November 9, 2019 at Windsor Park Retirement Apartments, 801 Davis Street. Private family Memorial Service will be at 4:30.

He was born on December 31, 1938 in Dubuque, son of Leo and Evelyn Connolly. He married Sandra Schmitt on January 10, 1959.

He was employed by Windsor Park/ Callahan Construction until his illness in 2016.

Fritz will be deeply missed by his wife, Sandy of 60 years; 3 daughters, Beth (Ken) Hammel, Robyn (Mike) Fagan and Kris Connolly; 3 sons, Tom Connolly, Bob (Tina) Connolly and Pat (Tracy) Connolly; 21 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Rita Griffin and Kathy (Jerry) Olsen.

He was preceded in death by his son Todd Connolly, his parents; father and Mother in law, Leland and Regina Schmitt; brothers Jim Connolly, Dan Connolly and Dave Connolly, and one sister Jeanne Connolly; great granddaughter, Miracle Blocker; Brother in Law and Sister in law, George and Lavonne Kennedy.

Thank you to Dr. Sara Loetcher and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melainie, Angela and Ryan. Also, Granddaughter, Heidi Klein for all of her help during his illness.

A Robert Connolly Memorial Fund has been established.

Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

“Happy Trails until we meet again.”

Kathryn E. Miller

Kathryn E. “Kay” (Cahill) Miller, 80, of Dubuque passed away on October 16th, 2019 at her family’s home in Iowa City.

Kay was born on August 10th, 1939 in Dubuque to Robert and Marietta Cahill. After graduating from St. Joseph’s Academy in 1958, she began working at Midwest Lumber Company. She then went on to become a secretary at Spahn & Rose Lumber Co. She was promoted to the purchasing department and then became the Assistant Manager of the Retail Office. Hardworking and dedicated, she worked at Spahn & Rose for over 40 years until her retirement in 2013.

A lifelong resident of Dubuque, Kay was an active member of her church and a staple of her neighborhood and community. She could often be found taking walks around the neighborhood, chatting with neighbors and keeping up with her close friends that she’d had since childhood.

Above all else, Kay’s greatest joy was her beloved family. She loved being a sister, mother and grandmother and took great pride in supporting her three grandchildren in all of their extracurriculars. She spent the last phase of her life surrounded by those that she loved most.

Kay is survived by her loving children Lisa (Kevin) Perez and Daryl Miller; grandchildren, Alexandra, Izaak and Elias; siblings Robert “Bob” (Jonneal) Cahill, Sharon (Joseph) Meyer; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marietta Cahill.

The family will greet friends on Thursday, October 24th at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road in Dubuque from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. A short service and celebration of life will begin at 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Iowa City Hospice. The family wishes to thank Anne Marie Perez for the friendship and care that she gave to Kay and to Iowa City Hospice for their care and support.

Bruce W. Ferguson

Bruce W. Ferguson, 88, of Naperville, IL, Winter, WI, and St. Pete Beach, FL, died Saturday, October 19, 2019 at Luther Manor.  Private family services will be held.

Bruce was born June 20, 1931 in Chicago, IL, son of Joseph and Elspeth (Archer) Ferguson.  He attended LeMoyne Elementary and graduated from Lake View High School, in Chicago.  He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Dubuque, his master’s degree from Northern Illinois University with doctoral work at The Ohio State University.

On August 7, 1954 he married Carol Capp and together they raised five children.

Bruce was a lifelong educator and mentor, teaching in the field of physical education for over 40 years.

Bruce was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Naperville and also belonged to the Illinois Association of Health Physical Education and Recreation where he served as President of the Midwest Region.  He enjoyed his association with the University of Dubuque where he served in various capacities.  He thoroughly enjoyed his summers at Pinecrest Resort on Barker Lake in Winter, WI which he and Carol operated for more than 40 years.  He greatly enjoyed fishing and spending time with family and guests.  He was also an avid swimmer and a big Cubs fan.

Bruce is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carol Capp Ferguson; four children, Sheri Garner and her children, Sarah (Kevin) Malia and their children, Rory and Tess; and Abigail Urban and her children, Nora and Grant; Beth (Lusmila) Ferguson and their children, Luciel, Veronica and her child Isabela, Christina, and Julissa; Gary (April) Ferguson and their children, Magdalena, Mateo, Miarosa, Micaela, Casper, Chadwick and Careabella; and Andrew (John Hoefler) Ferguson and their children, Megan Ferguson and Devyn, Austin, Jenna and Ethan Hoefler.  He is also survived by a brother, Ronald (Dorothy) Ferguson of Port Charlotte, FL and a special former daughter-in-law, Clare Ferguson of Dubuque, IA.

In addition to his parents, Bruce was preceded in death by a son, Randy (in childhood).

Special thanks go to the wonderful staff at Luther Manor; Dr. Jacobitz-Kizzier, and Dr. Meurer; and the staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.  The family would also like to thank Bradley Rudi, good friend and helper in Winter, WI.

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

Ronald M. Johnson

Ronald M. “Ron” Johnson, age 75 of Durango, Iowa sadly completed his earthly journey on October 15, 2019 after an ATV accident while hunting wild boar in Oklahoma.  To honor Ron’s life; his family, friends and loved ones are invited to bring stories and memories to share at Ron’s Celebration of Life from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2019 at the Dubuque Shooting Society, 10380 U.S. 52, Dubuque, Iowa.    Burial will be in the Morse Cemetery in Johnson County Iowa at another time with immediate family.

Ron was born on September 7, 1944 in Iowa City, Iowa, son of Robert M. Johnson and Helen R Tompkins.  Ron spent his formative years being surrounded by family and friends in the Iowa City/Coralville and Solon areas.  He graduated from Solon High School in 1962 and went on to complete his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Iowa in 1966.  Ron spent the next 2 years proudly serving his country with the U.S. Army.   During this time, he was united in marriage to his teenage sweetheart, Mary Lou Smith, on a rainy night, June 6, 1967.  The couple was blessed with 52 years together where they never wavered in their commitment to family, work, play and one another.  They both worked at John Deere, beginning their careers in Moline before moving to the Dubuque Works in 1971.  Ron took an early retirement package in 1988, which allowed him to spend time at home with his growing daughter, Jill, all while escaping to the outdoors almost daily on the farm.

Every fiber of Ron’s being was driven to be one with the nature around him whenever possible.  In his younger years, Ron would joyfully spend his days horseback riding, racing off-road motorcycles and riding snowmobiles in the off season.  In time, hunting and fishing became his full-time passion.  Land and animal management fit perfectly into Ron’s vision of living life to the fullest.  Their trips to the cabin in Wyoming to embark daily into the wilderness on another adventure became a regular occurrence.  Whether braving the day’s adventure with a rifle in hand, riding a 4-wheeler or horse, sitting in a boat or fishing streams with a fly rod, or even scouting endlessly in preparation for the next best spots, Ron continually found absolute satisfaction in every hour he and Mary were able to spend outdoors together.  Ron was always thankful that his game room wasn’t only full of the many trophies he had accrued over the years, but it was also a daily reminder of the memories and time he and Mary had spent together.  Ron’s love for the outdoors only came in second to his devotion to his family at home.  His wife, daughter, granddaughter and faithful canine companions were what created the essence within his purpose in life.  Ron has left a legacy of love, leadership and genuine character which will thankfully assist in providing some comfort to the broken hearts he leaves behind.  It’s impossible for us to imagine today that Ron has hung his last mount, but we trust that his new hunting grounds are perfectly designed for he and his dogs to run free until we see them again.  Thank you, Ron, for all you’ve done so well during your time here and may we never forget the positive example you’ve left for us to follow.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ron include,

his wife and perfect partner in life,
Mary Lou Johnson, Durango, Iowa;

his deeply adored daughter,
Jill (Anastasios Kritselis) Johnson, Grayslake, Illinois;

his beautiful granddaughter,
Helena;

his siblings,
Ted (Rosie) Tompkins, Prescott Valley, Arizona,
Penny Tompkins, Solon, Iowa,
Rich (Connie) Tompkins, Fairfax, Iowa,
Jeanne Hamilton, West Branch, Iowa,
and Roy Tompkins, Marion, Iowa;

along with countless extended family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and hunting buddies.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, John Tompkins.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Dubuque Humane Society, 4242 Chavenelle Road, Dubuque, Iowa, 52002 in Ron’s name in recognition of his uncompromising compassion and love for dogs.

Ron’s family would like to thank everyone for all of the love and support you’ve provided during these very difficult days.  Saying good-bye to Ron is the hardest thing we’ve ever had to do, knowing that we don’t have to face it alone is the greatest gift we could receive.

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

John J. Payne

John J. “Jerry” Payne, 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on October 19, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church with Rev. Steve Garner officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 22nd, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

Jerry was born on September 9, 1936 in Dubuque, IA the son of John Francis and Helen Mary (McDonald) Payne. He married Phyllis Kass on July 21, 1956 at St. Mary’s in Dubuque and she preceded him in death on March 13, 1999. He later married Beatrice Albert on October 17, 2003 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, and she preceded him in death on February 20, 2018.

He worked for Sweetheart Bakery; 7up Bottling Company and lastly for Kirchoff Distributing Co. He was a member of the Teamsters Local #421 and he enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Jerry is survived by his children, Steve (Kathy) Payne, of Peosta, IA, Alice Pregler, of Dubuque and Jim (Jenny) Payne of, Dubuque, IA. Grandchildren, Charles (Keira) Pregler, Jerry Pregler, Nathan (Sami) Pregler, Ryan Pregler, Tricia (Jacob) Munson, Stephanie (Kyle) Reinert, and Brian (Amanda) Payne; great grandchildren, Aaron, Danny, Tyler, and Olivia Munson, Parker and Henry Reinert. His siblings, Ray (Colleen) Payne, Tim (Myra) Payne, Sheila (Larry) Blatz, Ann (Jack) Ginter, Ellen (Dave) Willis and Mary Johnson. Sisters-in-law Karen Payne and Betty Payne.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Phyllis in 1999; his 2nd wife in 2018; brothers Bill and Jack and his sister Rita Ambrosy.

The family would like to thank Oak Park Place, Hawkeye Care Center, Dr. Kirkendall and to Hospice of Dubuque for all their care, kindness and compassion.

In lieu of flowers a John Payne memorial fund has been established.

Joann A. Kasik

Joann A. Kasik (Kohlenberg), 79, longtime resident of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Friday, October 18, 2019, at the Clarence Care Center, Clarence, IA.  Memorial services will be held at 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 24, 2019 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. where friends may greet the family from 4:00 p.m. until time of services.

Joann was born on September 12, 1940 in Bellevue, IA to Lawrence and Arlene Kohlenberg.  She graduated from Bellevue Public High School, attended Wartburg College where she was a first soprano on the choir.  Joann worked at local 150 Dubuque Packing CO Union and in the printing business as a designer for over 30 years.  As a teenager, her accomplishments included showing the Reserve Grand Champion Herford at the Iowa State Fair and being on numerous championship Tug-O-War teams at the Dubuque County Fairs.

Joann was a proud and loving mother of her two sons: Scott Kasik of Mechanicsville, IA and Phil Kasik of Dubuque, IA.  She was a devoted mother who loved nothing more than attending her son’s sporting events, where she was awarded with “the fam of the year” in 1981.  She was also the proud and loving grandmother of her grandchildren; Scout, Cortlyn and Averee.  She loved good food, was a fantastic cook and in her spare time she enjoyed flower gardening, reading and football.  Joann will be forever remembered for her beautiful smile, quick wit and kindness.

Joann is survived by her sons Scott Kasik and his 3 children Scout, Cortlyn and Averee and Phil Kasik; her brother Lynn (Eileen) Kohlenberg; her sister Jeanette (Jim) Jamieson; her nephew Chad (Meghan) Kohlenberg and their 3 children and her cousins Carol Schardt, Marge Felderman and Sarah Thorn.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lawrence and Arlene.

Irenus A. Kunkel

Irenus A. “Ira” Kunkel, 88, formerly of Dickeyville Wisconsin, passed away Saturday, October 19, 2019, at Heritage Memory Care in Middleton, Wisconsin, with his wife, Rosemary, and daughter, Diane, at his side.  Services will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 23, 2019, at Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, October 22, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City, Wisconsin, where the parish wake service will be at 3:45 p.m.  Friends may also call from 9:45-10-:15 a.m. Wednesday, October 23, at the church before the service.

Ira was born May 24, 1931, in Kieler, Wisconsin, the son of Charles and Gezena (Dalsing) Kunkel. He married Rosemary Weber at St. Mary’s Church in Galena, Illinois, on April 16, 1958.

Ira farmed in the Kieler area, and later owned Kunkel’s Hardware, Plumbing and Heating with his wife, Rosemary, and brother and sister-in-law, Gilbert and Colleen Kunkel.  He also sold and serviced DeLaval Milking Equipment. Ira was an army veteran and was a member of Reimenapp-Averkamp-Stelpflug VFW Post #6455 in Dickeyville.  He also served on the Dickeyville Paris Volunteer Fire Department for 30 years serving as both chief and assistant chief. He was part of the Holy Ghost Parish Choir along with Rosemary who was the organist. Ira loved to fish, camp and sing.  His passion for living life will be greatly missed.

Survivors besides his wife, Rosemary, include five children, David (Janice) of Westfield, WI, Deborah of Dallas, TX, Gary (Vicki) of Oregon, WI, Cynthia (John) of Corona Del Mar, CA and Diane (Flip) of Madison, WI; a brother, Norman (Eunice) Kunkel; a sister-in-law Colleen Kunkel; seven grandchildren, Robin Higgins, Sera and Steven Harbert, Matthew, Lindsey and Zachery Kunkel and Jared Pratt; and four great-grandchildren, Aiden Randolph, Ivan Kunkel  and Oscar, Arlo and Eagan Higgins.

Ira was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Danny; a sister, Alverna (Orville) Schaefer; and a brother, Gilbert Kunkel.

An Irenus A. “Ira” Kunkel Memorial Fund has been established.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net

Robert H. Powers

Robert H. “Bob” Powers 87, of East Dubuque, IL died Thursday, October 17th, at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 22, 2019 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, with military honors accorded by members of the Dubuque Marine Corps. League.

Visitation will be 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday and from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish scripture service will be at 3:30 p.m. on Monday.  Members of the East Dubuque Volunteer Fire Dept. will meet at 7:30 p.m. on Monday to attend the wake.

Bob was born on January 6, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, son of James and Lorraine (Bintner) Powers. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1950. After graduation he was employed by Interstate Power followed by his enlistment into the U.S. Navy where he was an electrician on the U.S.S. Ajaxduring the Korean Conflict. Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he went back to work for Interstate Power where hewas a member of I.B.E.W. Local #263 and retired in 1994 as a substation technician. During his retirement he was employed by Runde Chevrolet in East Dubuque, IL delivering vehicles to various locations.

Robert and Josephine (Jo) Reisen of East Dubuque, IL were united in marriage on October 26th, 1957 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, IL. He was very involved in the community; volunteering for Boy Scouts, Troop 14, the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps and served 20 years as a fireman for the East DubuqueVolunteer Fire Department. In his youth he enjoyed trapshooting, hunting, fishing, skiing, and baseball. His children have many cherished memories and stories of their camping trips while growing up. His woodworking was also a favorite past-time of his, as well as cheering on the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. Bob’s pride and joy were his grandchildren. He travelled near and far to visit and engage with them; going to theChicago Bear’s camp, attending high school and college graduations and weddings. There was not a baseball, softball, volleyball, choir or musical performance that he did not attend.

Surviving are his wife Jo, of 61 years, and his children, Jeff (Jean) of Pewaukee, WI, Julie Ward (Bob) of Cabot, AR, Jay(Mary) of Menominee, IL, Jon of Cedar Rapids, IA, Jan Weuve (Kevin) of Savoy, IL and Jim Powers of East Dubuque, IL; a sister, Lou Ann Wieland of Dubuque, IA. Also surviving are 7grandchildren; Adam Ward (Sydney), Andrew Weuve, Matthew Weuve, Tyler Powers, Jenna Powers, Emily Powers and Jacob Powers and 1 great grandchild, Beau Weuve.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his parent-in-laws, anda brother John (Jack) Powers. Also, in-laws Elmer and Betty Rogers, Jean and Ralph Reisen, William Reisen and Robert Wieland.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the East Dubuque, IL Fire Department.

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

Michael Reilly

C. Michael “Mike” Reilly, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Friday, October 18, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque after a long and hard-fought battle with Alzheimer’s.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 21, 2019 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Friends may call from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Mike was born on March 27, 1942, in Dubuque, to George N. and M.L. Theda (Hoerner) Reilly. Mike graduated from Dubuque Senior in 1960 after an outstanding high school athletic career where he participated in football, basketball and track. In his senior year, Mike was named Iowa’s outstanding high school athlete. Mike was inducted into Dubuque Senior’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1992 and the Iowa High School Football Hall of Fame in 1993.

After high school, Mike attended the University of Iowa and played football for his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes. Mike took on the nickname “The Hammer” during his college football career and earned All-Big Ten Team (1963), All-American Team (1963), co-captain for the College All-Star Team (1964), and voted on by fans to the All-Time University of Iowa Football Team in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Iowa football. Years later Mike returned to Kinnick Stadium as a long-time broadcaster alongside Ron Gonder who referred to him as “Charlie Linebacker.” Mike was inducted into the University of Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame in 2005.

Following his collegiate football career, Mike was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart Nancy (Groff) on February 8, 1964 at Nativity Catholic Church in Dubuque. That same year, Mike was drafted in the fourth-round of the NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears where he played for five seasons before joining the Minnesota Vikings in 1969, which is the year they won the National Football League title and earned a trip to the 1970 Super Bowl. He retired from football after that season.

Mike was a great athlete and an even greater husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Together Mike and Nancy welcomed three sons who they enjoyed raising in Dubuque. Mike loved and supported the Dubuque community by leading fundraising efforts for local organizations, being an active member of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and founding the Dubuque chapter for the University of Iowa I-Club. After football, Mike’s professional career took him to Frank Hardie Advertising and First National Bank (U.S. Bank). He then retired in 2004 as the branch manager and marketing director for State Central Bank.

Mike always enjoyed being around his sons and their families, cheering on his favorite sports teams, walking around his neighborhood, golfing, attending his grandchildren’s events, and drinking a beer or two with his buddies at the Shot Tower. He was a humble man who always had a joke to tell and a big laugh to share.

Those left to honor Mike’s memory include his wife of 55 years, Nancy Reilly, of Dubuque; his three sons, Steve (Jane) Reilly, of Dubuque, Jim (Erica) Reilly, of Saline, Michigan, Bob (Andrea) Reilly, of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Mitchell (Ali), Morgan (Ben Samek), Meghan, Shannon, Devin, Logan, Erin and Drew; one sister, Jane (Bob) Specht, of Dubuque; sister-in-law, Karen Vandermillen, of Dubuque; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends and teammates.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, Earl and Ludmilla “Luddie” Groff; three siblings, Mary Kay, G.T. “Tom,” and Sue; and one grandchild, Caroline Elizabeth.

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

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

Helen A. O’Brien

Helen Ann O’Brien, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully from pancreatic cancer in her home, with her family by her side, on Thursday, October 17, 2019.

A funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 21 at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque, with Father Thomas McDermott officiating. Burial will be following at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Fillmore.

Friends and relatives of Ann may call from 1:00 to 5:00 on Sunday, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

Ann was born August 23, 1934 in Osage, Iowa, daughter of Paul and Gertrude (Marr) Meirick. She graduated from St. Mary’s High School in New Haven, Iowa, and then went on to earn her Nursing Degree from Mount Mercy School of Nursing in Cedar Rapids. She dedicated 60 years to the nursing profession, working at Xavier Hospital (floor nurse), Western Dubuque Schools (school nurse), Shady Rest Care Center (night shift nurse), Northeast Iowa Community College (Instructor), Stonehill Care Center (Day Supervisor), and St. Raphael Parish (parish nurse.)

On June 1, 1957, Ann was united in marriage to Patrick O’Brien, of Bernard; Pat and Ann farmed in the Fillmore area until moving to Dubuque in 1990. They celebrated 57 years together until his death in 2014.

Ann was an active member of Sacred Heart Parish in Fillmore, and then St. Raphael Parish after they moved to Dubuque. In addition to supporting parish activities, Ann was an Aquin School System board member, a board member for Hospice of Dubuque, a supporter of Outrun the Rays, a volunteer at the Veteran’s Freedom Center, a member of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, a medical supply coordinator and on-site volunteer in El Salvador, and a volunteer for many other community and social justice organizations and events.

Ann is survived by her five children: Tom (Meg) O’Brien of Cascade; Bill (Amy) O’Brien of Takoma Park, Maryland; Peg O’Brien of Woody Creek, Colorado; Dave (Melissa) O’Brien of Epworth; and Doug (Alisa) O’Brien of Takoma Park, Maryland. Additionally, she is survived by eleven grandchildren: Clancy (Alex) Junk, Bailey O’Brien, Gannon O’Brien; Colin O’Brien-Lux, Callahan O’Brien; Jack O’Brien, Patrick O’Brien, Will O’Brien; Molly O’Brien, James O’Brien, and Edie O’Brien; two brothers: Bill (Ann) Meirick of Protivin, and Dick (Ginger) Meirick of Osage; six brothers-in-law: Rex Gogerty, Irwin McDermott, Mike O’Brien, Joe O’Brien, Terry O’Brien, and Bob Green; seven sisters-in-law: Kathleen Gogerty, Maurna O’Brien, Lois Schlegel, Joyce O’Brien, Delores O’Brien, Deb Green, and Nikki Manternach.

She was preceded in death by her husband Pat, her parents, and her brother Dan Meirick; five brothers-in-law: George O’Brien, Steve O’Brien, Earl O’Brien, Ralph O’Brien, and Richard Schlegel; and four sisters-in-law: Monica O’Brien, Elaine O’Brien, Mary Ann O’Brien, and Joannel McDermott.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, and the Oncology Department at Medical Associates, for their excellent care.

Lester Garthwaite

Lester “Curly” Garthwaite, Jr. 94 of Dubuque passed away Thursday, October 17, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center.

Visitation will be today, Saturday October 19, 2019 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30p.m. at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League at 2:30 pm. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Curly was born on October 6, 1925 in Lancaster, WI the son of Lester and Marguerite (Mason) Garthwaite, Sr. He served as a U.S. Navy Signalman during WW II in the Pacific.

On December 18, 1949 he married Dorothy “Dot” Kimmell in Galena, IL she preceded him in death on Feb. 27, 2014. He worked for H & W Motor Express for many years and was a member of the Teamsters Union. He was noble selfless man who was cherished and will be missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughter Cheryl (John) Williams of Gainesville, FL; two grandchildren Sean (Charissa) Maher and Shannon (Rob) Matricardi; great grandson Connor Maher and his brother Patrick.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill, Du Ride and Curlys good friends Harry and Sheri Wolter for all the wonderful care and kindness you showed him.

Harold F. Lahr

Harold “Harry” Frederick Lahr, 84, of Earlville, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, October 17, 2019, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 14, 1935, in Monticello, the son of Raymond and Doloras (Westhoff) Lahr. Harry attended school in Buck Creek for two years and then was a 1953 graduate of Worthington High School.  He completed Reisch Auction School in Mason City in 1959. Harry also taught there for a short period of time.

On June 17, 1968, Harry was united in marriage to Ann Lois Koelker in Buffalo Center. Three children were born to this union. The family resided in Earlville. Harry owned and operated Lahr Truck Line for over 20 years. He was an auctioneer and owned Harry Lahr Auctions for over 50 years. He also did auctioneer work at the Edgewood Sale Barn with his good friend, Dick Funk. For over 20 years, Harry drove semi for Peterson Contractors, Inc., in Reinbeck.

Harry was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville. He enjoyed auctions, flea markets, antique shows, and trapping. Harry will be remembered as a very, very hard-working very, very honest man. He was generous and selfless beyond measure. Harry loved his family dearly and especially enjoyed spending time with his beloved grandchildren and walking Zeke.

Survivors include his wife, Lois Lahr of Earlville; three children, Shannon (Julie) Lahr of Earlville, Ann (Paul) Scallon of Cedar Rapids, and Matt (Lisa) Lahr of Earlville; four grandchildren, Hannah Lahr, Gavin Scallon, Mahala Lahr, and Caleb Lahr; two siblings, Patricia (Bob) Wolfe of Dubuque and Wayne Lahr of Worthington; sisters-and brothers-in-law, Rosemary Lahr of Edgewood, Betty Lois Koelker of Manchester, Marilyn Michael of Cedar Rapids; and several nieces and nephews.

Harry was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Doloras Lahr; his parents-in-law, Louis and Louise Koelker; his two brothers Robert Lahr and Herman (Bev) Lahr; and his sisters-and-brothers-in-law, Llewellyn (Bernice) Koelker, Verna (LaVerne) Hawker, Louis “Bud” Koelker, and Carol (Bob) Ortberg.

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

Mass of Christian Burial:  10:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 26, 2019, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville, with Rev. Jim Goerend officiating.

Visitation: 8:30 a.m. until the time of Mass, on Saturday, October 26, 2019, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville.

Inurnment: St. Joseph Cemetery – Earlville, Iowa

Cathy A. Umscheid

Cathy Ann (Berendes) Umscheid of West Des Moines, IA, formerly of Hudson, IA, and Shullsburg, WI walked through the gates of heaven on Tuesday, October 15, 2019.

To celebrate Cathy, family and friends may gather from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 20, 2019, and after 10:00 a.m. on Monday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, Illinois, where funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Cathy was born on March 9, 1945 in Dubuque, IA, the beautiful daughter of Budd O. and Dorothy C. (Smith) Berendes. She was a graduate of Shullsburg High School’s Class of 1962.

Cathy married Leonard Umscheid on June 14, 1967 in Omaha, NE, and started their family.  Cathy and Leonard later divorced and Cathy relocated to Hudson, IA where she raised her three children.  Cathy began working for Peoples Natural Gas (later named Northern Natural Gas) at the age of 19.  She retired the first time in 2013. She continued to “help them out” for another five years, officially retiring on January 23, 2018 after 50 years.  Her incredible dedication and strong work ethic should never go unnoticed.

Cathy lived her entire life for her children and grandchildren.  Family was her purpose.  She always found a way to make it to her children’s school events and provided them a wonderful upbringing.  You would find her at the baseball and football fields as well as the basketball court cheering on her five grandsons. She was their biggest cheerleader and her heart was full of pride.

Cathy enjoyed reading, gardening (including pulling weeds,) canning with her brother Blaine, and many memorable trips to “the cottage,” the home of her brother, Bob.  Fish-frys were a must followed by playing cards and with loved ones.  She was able to travel with her daughter, Leah, on many occasions.  Santorini, Greece was one of her most memorable trips.  We always thought the color of the water matched her beautiful blue eyes.

Those left to continue her legacy are her three children, Donna (Umscheid) Hirsch of Dubuque, IA, Robert (Bobby) Umscheid of Des Moines, IA, and Leah (Umscheid) Roling of Urbandale, IA.  Her pride and joy, grandsons, Cody (Jennifer) Gesie of LaCrosse, WI, Logan, Levi, and Maxx Newman of Urbandale, IA, and Devin Hirsch of Dubuque, IA.  Cathy would have become a great-grandma in 2020 to Baby Gesie. Her brothers Robert (Bob) Berendes of Couderay, WI, and Blaine Berendes of Shullsburg, WI.  Terry Vosberg of Stoughton, WI was like a brother to her and his wife, Ida, like a sister.  Her uncle, Al Smith, along with her niece, Emily Berendes, and nephew, Jay Berendes, as well as many cousins.

Cathy was preceded in death by her parents, Budd & Dorothy; and aunts and uncles.

We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the following:  Dr. Seema Harichand-Herdt and the staff at the John Stoddard Cancer Center in Des Moines, IA, the nurses and staff at Iowa Methodist Hospital – Powell 3, also in Des Moines, IA (especially Zoe and Deb) for their tender care.  Dr. Lacey of Texas who gave our mom the ability to walk when walking was no longer an option. Chris, and his staff at Home Care Assistance of Des Moines for the in-home care and support they provided.  A huge thank you to the staff at The Village of Legacy Pointe, especially Allison, Alicia, Seth, Cybil, Sammie, Martine, and Sam for loving our mom and preparing her for her journey home.  Thank you, James and Phyllis, for your  friendship, care, and love of our mom.  You will be our family forever.  Last, but certainly not least, a very special thank you to Mike Roling, Cathy’s son-in-law.  Without his constant vigilance, dedication to our mom’s health, his amazing food, and unconditional love of his family, these past months would have been unbearable.

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