Obituaries Archive

Kim Eisler

Kim Eisler, 80, of Rockford, IL formerly of Dubuque died Saturday, May 23, 2020, at Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford.

Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 12:00 PM Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. With respect to our current social distancing requirements, ten visitors will be allowed inside the building at a time. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a virtual hug to Kim’s family.

The Funeral Service for Kim will be 12:00 PM Wednesday, May 27, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. The service 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. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Kim was born on December 5, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, daughter of Christopher J. & Mary Alice (Furlong) Justman. Kim attended school in Dubuque IA and continued her education as a licensed cosmetologist. Over the years she became a private pilot to prove to herself she could do anything. Kim married Harold Butch Tendall in 1960. They moved from Dubuque, IA to Rockford, IL for her husbands’ employment in the tool & dye industry. They were married for 14 years and raised their 4 beautiful children together, Thomas Harold Tendall, Michael David Tendall, Lisa Marie Tendall (Eisler), Tina Claire Tendall (Eisler).

Kim was a stay at home mom until the late 70’s.  After divorcing and having 4 children from the ages of 3 to 13 years of age, she had to enter the work force.

Kim had a creative and artistic talent that needed to be shared.  She started to paint and sell her paintings at art shows and open-air markets. She also worked with the Buyers Guide newspaper and created her own magazine. Kim had such talent & passion and created artistic masterpieces.  Kim decided she had the strength and the desire to start her own business, Anything Wood Waterbeds. She studied, learned, and focused on creating something from nothing.  Over 20 years she built a business & manufacturing facility with several locations including Freeport IL, Beloit WI, & Machesney Park, IL.

She had an incredible work ethic. After selling Anything Wood Waterbeds she started a new adventure and opened Cherry Blossom Flowers & Gifts on Main St. in Rockford.  This new business gave Kim the opportunity to share her God given creative talents yet again. Her eyes would light up thru her floral arranging. She had such a strong customer following and made many close lifetime friends. She made her customers and vendors feel loved as to include them as part of her extended family.

After several years of building yet another business she decided to sell Cherry Blossom (which is still in business today) and move into a floral management position with Schnucks on Harlem Rd. in Rockford, IL and retired from Schnucks in 2011.

As Kim offered so much more, she decided retirement could be more fun and joined her children, Tom & Tina with their real estate business, Infinity Assets, LLC.

Kim gave of herself every day. Anytime she could bring a smile to someone she would do with pleasure. During the years, Kim enjoyed many trips to Las Vegas, seeing her favorite Italian singer, Andrea Bocelli in Chicago, to the crazy trips like the drive to Breckenridge CO.

She was the silent warrior always in your corner, always pouring into your strength. She was one of the most kind and giving people you would ever meet. Mom was the canvas to our family painting that will be passed to her children, her grandchildren, and her great grandchild. She would want us to continue this masterpiece and have her life continue through ours by living by her examples, staying close as a family, and reminding us how important it is to live life doing something you love. Kim was the last of her generation. She had a kind and gentle soul and will be deeply missed.

Survivors include sons, Tom H. (Aysan) Tendall and Michael D. Tendall, daughters, Lisa M. (Jerry) Graff (Eisler) and Tina C. Eisler; her grandchildren, Tierra Tendall, Connor Tendall, Asya Cigirgil, Brittany Stack, Shantelle Graff, Kimberly Graff, Nicholas Graff, Jonathan Graff, Alex Kelsey, Christopher Kelsey; Great grandchild, Wesley Peppers; Nephews: Alan Justman of Plano TX and Jason Justman, of Rockford, IL; Sister-in-law, Donna Justman of Dallas, TX.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Christopher J. & Mary Alice Justman (Furlong). Brothers, Merlyn (Donna) Justman, Lawrence W. Justman, and her Sister, Mary C. Mills.

Condolences and virtual hugs can be sent to the family by visiting Kim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Joyce E. Carmill

Joyce E. “Peach” Cartmill, 88, of Dubuque, formerly of Fairplay, WI, passed away on Friday evening, May 22, 2020 at home with family by her side.

Private funeral and burial services will be on Thursday, May 27, 2020 at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Dubuque.

A public visitation will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the strict guidelines of the CDC and State will be followed, and only (10) people will be permitted in the funeral home at any one time.

Joyce was born on March 17, 1932 in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert and Ella L. (Thompson) Waller.  She was united in marriage to James Lee Cartmill on June 24, 1955 in Dubuque.  He preceded her in death on December 25, 1996.

Joyce was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School. She was previously employed at Wallis, Kunnert, Price, & Smith Insurance and later at The Finley Hospital from where she retired.

Life consisted not only of working, but also having a good time. She enjoyed traveling (especially her bus trips to see the Cubs). She was a member of UAW Local # 94 Auxiliary and treasured playing cards with her friends. You could never go wrong when buying her a Precious Moment or anything to do with cardinals, as you could see these displayed throughout her home.

Joyce appreciated time with her family and regularly felt compelled to tell her children the truth (even if it wasn’t what they wanted to hear). During Christmas and birthdays, she loved to spoil her grandchildren (which they didn’t mind at all). She may have lacked patience with her husband at times (as James could be difficult), but this seemed to keep the marriage lively. Joyce had a real knack for housekeeping in her own “special way”. Her family will miss the organized chaos that could lead into a treasure hunt during any given visit.

Surviving are 4 children, Cheryl Johnson (Randy Lieb), Vern Cartmill, Sue Schlarman all of Dubuque & Robert Cartmill of Hayward, WI; 8 grandchildren, Denise (Michael) Switzer, Roger Michael (Cindy) Curler, James (Cristy) Curler, Robb Johnson, Ami Johnson (Al Biederman), Bill (Abbie) Erner, Chad (Katie) Erner, & Jacob (Amber) Cartmill; 12 great-grandchildren, Samantha & Madalyn Switzer, Dustin Ryan-Roepsch, Izzac Kirk, Andrew Johnson, Ladee McAdoo-Johnson, Ashley Cartmill, Joshua & Nathan Erner, Cheyenne Erner, Megan & Ella Cartmill; 3 great-great grandchildren, Wyatt, Lauralei & Lillian Cartmill; siblings, Lois Ronek, Marjorie (Marty) Bowerman, James Cummings, Kenneth (Carol) Cummings, Ralph (Donna) Cummings & sister-in-law, Kay Waller.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, Ella and Robert; her husband, James; a daughter, Sandra Curler; son-in-law’s, Roger Curler & Bill Schlarman; a grandchild, Clinton Cartmill;  a great-grandchild, Alexia Switzer; siblings, Lorraine (Justin) Ronek, Helen (Frank) Hedrick, Geraldine (John) Steil, Donald Waller & brother-in-law, Charles Ronek.

The family would like to acknowledge Joyce’s friends & fellow co-workers at The Finley Hospital for the kindness shown to their mother & grandmother.

A very special thanks to Mike (Sandi) Neenan of Fairplay, WI for being a considerate, caring neighbor to Joyce for many years.

A Joyce E.”Peach” Cartmill memorial fund has been established and memorials may be mailed to: Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Rt. 35 N, East Dubuque, IL – Attn: Joyce Cartmill Family.

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

Judy Blosch

Judy Blosch, 75, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 22, 2020, at her home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM Wednesday May 27, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road. With respect to our current social distancing requirements, ten visitors will be allowed inside the building at a time. If you are not feeling well or are unable to attend, we encourage you to visit www.hskfhcares.com to send a virtual hug to Judy’s family.

The Funeral Service for Judy will be 11:00 AM Thursday, May 28, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with  Deacon John Stierman officiating. The service 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.

Judy was born August 22, 1944, in Dubuque, the daughter of LaVern Anthony Sr. and Thelma Kemp Lehman. On March 2, 1996, she married Dennis Blosch in Dubuque.

She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

She worked Loss Prevention Security for Younkers and Sears and also for the Iowa Racing Commission.

Judy was a river rat in her younger days. She loved playing poker, watching movies (especially horror movies), and knitting. She loved her family more than anything. She was a life-long Cubs fan and celebrated the Cubs World Series win. She is now watching Cub games, playing poker, and drinking wine with Moose, Thelma, and Audrey in Heaven.

Survivors include her husband, Dennis; one daughter, Donna (Brian) (Mihalakis) Moore; three grandchildren, Tyler Mihalakis of California, and Matt Mihalakis and Dylan Mihalakis, both of Dubuque; three step-grandchildren, Emily (Ken) Valentine of Dubuque, Daniel Moore of San Diego, CA, and Ben Moore of Cedar Rapids; one brother, LaVern “Butch” (Bonnie) Lehman, Jr. of Dubuque; one sister, Carole (Karen) Lyons of Dubuque; her Goddaughter, Trina Piper McInerney of Dubuque; mother-in-law, Doris Blosch; sister-in-law, Sherry Blosch; and nieces and nephews, Amanda (Jeremiah) Johnson, Mark Silva, Lori Silva, TJ Sproule, Courtney (Jeff) Heinz, Shay Lehman, Tressa Heim, Rick Lyons, and Jim Lyons, her special friends, Pattrick Ferguson and Doug Perry, both of Dubuque, thank you for your love and care.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister, Audrey Sproule, and her beloved dog, Jade.

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

Visit Judy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com where you will be able to view her photo tribute and send condolences or a virtual hug to the family.

Janet K. Mai

Janet Kay Mai, 75, of Monticello, IA passed away, Friday, May 22, 2022, at home surrounded by her family following an extended illness.

There will be a private family service at Tom and Janet’s Langworthy home.

Janet was born on February 20, 1945 in Monticello to John and Josephine (Rigby) Appleby.  She attended Monticello High School and spent 19 years teaching children at Headstart. Janet married Thomas Mai on May 10, 1969 at Methodist Church of Monticello.

Janet was a longtime member at the First Congregational Church, Royal Neighbors of America and spent many years in the Monticello Jayceettes.  Janet enjoyed camping, card parties and spending time with her family and friends.  She will be remembered for her outgoing personality and someone you could always depend on.

Those left to cherish Janet’s memory are her husband of 51 years Tom, 6 children: Lisa (Mark) Hayen of Monticello, Bryan (Patti) Mooney of Harper’s Ferry, WV, Tom Mai of East Dubuque, IL, Jim Mai of Monticello, Sandra (Robert) Sosalla of Marion, Diane (Duane) Probus of Wilmington, OH, 14 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, her beloved Chihuahua, Brutus, brothers, Jerald (Ruth) Appleby of Ft. Walton Beach, FL, Jeffery Appleby of Monticello and sister-in-law, Suzanne Appleby of Derby, KS.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 3 sisters and 5 brothers.

Special thank you to the medical staff at St. Luke’s Hospital, DaVita Dialysis Center, Above and Beyond and Unity Point Hospice for their special care for Mom.

Thomas H. Martens

Thomas H. “Gus” Martens, 88, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 21, 2020 at home surrounded by his family. According to his wishes no visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road in Dubuque is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Gus was born on February 25, 1932 in Dubuque, Iowa. He was the son of William and Mary (Sampica) Martens. He graduated from Loras Academy in Dubuque and enlisted in the United States Army. He served from 1952 to 1953 during the Korean War where he received an honorable discharge.

In 1958 he married Patricia (Sowle) at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church.

For 44 years he worked as a Union Plumber; was a member of the Local 25 Plumbers and Steamfitters and North End Gun Club.

Gus loved spending time with his family and especially enjoyed holidays with the grandkids and great grandkids and playing cards together. He also loved to take his family to the gun club and mall walking with his buddies.

He is survived by his wife Patricia; his children, Tom (Pam) Martens, Dan (Paula) Martens, Tim (Cheryl) Martens, Jill (Mike) Baumhover and Steve (Kim) Martens. His grandchildren, Sarah and Jennifer Martens, Allison (Dominic) Noll, Trevor Martens, Eric (Emily) Martens, Alex (Kate) Martens, Leah (Brad) Timmerman and Jake Baumhover. Great grandchildren, Aleahla, Arianna, and Joshua Martens, Sophie and Elliott Noll and Laurel Timmerman. Two sisters Ginger (Mark) Walsh and Nancy Winning.

Gus was preceded in death by his parents; a brother William “Red” Martens; grandchildren Andrew Martens and Christopher and Joshua Baumhover, along with brothers and sisters-in-law.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care they gave to Gus.

In lieu of flowers a Gus Martens memorial fund will be established.

JoAnn M. Behnke

JoAnn M. Behnke, age 77, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 12:45 p.m., on Friday, May 22, 2020, at Dubuque Specialty Care, from the COVID-19 virus.  To celebrate JoAnn’s life, private family services will be held due to the current gathering restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

JoAnn was born on July 17, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John W. and Frances C. (Trierweiler) Behnke.

JoAnn was a proud lifelong resident of Dubuque.  She was a very hard worker who was employed in the housekeeping departments at St. Francis Home for 12 years, Stonehill Care Center for 21 years, and also cleaned private homes.  JoAnn was a social butterfly, she liked chatting with family and friends and people she would meet when she was out and about.  She enjoyed being active, she created intricate embroidery projects, maintained beautiful flower gardens around her yard and loved to get out for a nice long walk.  She also had an extensive porcelain doll collection.  JoAnn’s love of 4 legged creatures, especially dogs and cats, was well known and her latest cat, Betsy, brought her much joy.  Her faith was also an integral part of JoAnn’s life, as evidenced by her long time membership with Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church.  We are saddened at JoAnn’s passing and will miss her more than we can express.  The world is definitely a better place because we had JoAnn here with us for 77 wonderful years.

Those left to cherish JoAnn’s memory include

her brother,
Laverne (Irene) Behnke, Asbury, IA;

her nieces and nephews,
Michael (Mitzi) Behnke, Murphy, TX,
Ronald (Teresa) Behnke, Cedar Rapids, IA,
Catherine (Jon) Rumbley, Duluth, MN
and Deborah (Matt) Anderson, Des Moines, IA;

and her great-nieces and great-nephews,
twins, Noah and Ellison Rumbley,
Caroline Behnke
and Vivian Behnke.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents; her twin sister, Janet Behnke; and her grandparents.

The family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Dr. Cynthia Konz and her nurse, Sherie, for all of the care and concern shown to JoAnn.

The family would thankfully accept your support through phone calls, online condolences or greeting cards, which can be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001, Attn. JoAnn Behnke Family.

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

Mary Ellen Camp

Mary Ellen Camp, 87, of Andrew, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, May 20, 2020, at her home in Andrew, Iowa.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at 6 P.M., Friday, June 12, 2020, at Faith Community Church in Maquoketa.  Friends and family may gather prior to the service from 5 to 6 P.M. at the church.  Cremation has taken place and burial will be at a later date in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Washington County, Pennsylvania.

Mary Ellen Diley was born on November 30, 1932 in Washington, Pennsylvania to George Henry and Mary Sue (Jenkins) Diley.  She was a graduate of Union High School in Burgettstown, Pennsylvania.  She married Ralph David “Shorty” Camp Sr. on April 18, 1953 in Pennsylvania.

Mary was a housewife.  Her faith was important to her as she served as a Deaconess and was a member of Faith Community Church in Maquoketa.  She enjoyed crocheting, reading puzzle books, and seek and find games on the computer.  She loved to travel, flowers, eating seafood and swimming.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Nancy (Dave) Huggins of Carnegie, PA, Ralph Camp Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, Ray (Deb) Camp of Pittsburgh, PA, and Cheryl (John) Williams of Andrew, IA; 6 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Ralph Sr. in 2006, brothers Henry and Louis “Bud” Diley, and a sister Gertrude Ervin.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Please feel free to call or stop at the funeral home with notes of condolence or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Marjorie R. (DeCook) Hipschen

Marjorie R. “Midge” (DeCook) Hipschen, 95, of Bellevue, passed away peacefully at home with her family around her, on Tuesday, May 19, 2020.

Private Family Memorial Mass will be 10:30 am, Saturday, May 30, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. Due to COVID 19 restrictions, Funeral Mass will be live streamed on the St. Joseph Bellevue – Sts. Peter & Paul Springbrook Facebook page, on You Tube Channel and on Bellevue Cable TV. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue. Midge’s family asks everyone to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com. If you choose to give a memorial in Midge’s memory please send it to Hachmann Funeral Home at 100 N. 6th St., Bellevue, IA 52031, c/o Midge Hipschen Family.

Midge was born on June 8, 1924, in Moline, IL. Her parents were Dominick Thomas DeCook and Mary Ann (DeSchepper) DeCook. They moved to a dairy farm in Bellevue, where Midge grew up with her sisters, Gladys (Harry) Roeder and Marcella (Don) McConnell, and brother, Vincent (Thee) DeCook (all deceased). She graduated from St. Joe’s school in Bellevue.

Midge married Raymond “Hip” Edward Hipschen, Jr., on October 4, 1948 and together they raised 10 children. Neighbors and friends were always welcome in their home. When Midge rang the cowbell, she never knew how many would show up for lunch. She was happiest while holding a baby, watching children play, or best of all, listening to her grandchildren and great grandchildren sharing their worlds with her.

When her youngest child started school, she became a CNA at Mill Valley Care Center (MVCC) where she worked for over 30 years. She retired at age 83! There is a long list of friends that she met while working at MVCC. Even at age 95, Midge would still laugh and reminisce with her best friend and co-worker, Marge Gothard, about all the good times they shared over the years.

As well as mother and caregiver, Midge was an avid reader, gardener, and flower lover. She enjoyed tending flowers at the Bellevue butterfly garden well into her later years. She will long be remembered for her Christmas cookies and legendary black raspberry jelly. She was very active at St. Joe’s Church — always there to peel those potatoes in the early AM for the Pork Roast Festival. She loved traveling with her children and especially their many beach vacations.

Midge is survived by five sons and five daughters and their families: Mike (Nora) of New Bern, NC; Tom (Pattee) of Arlington, VA; Jim (Cindy) of Keokuk; Joe (Kay-deceased) of Bellevue; John of E. Dbq, IL; Anne (Garth) Docherty of Bellevue; Cath (Tom) Murray of Dubuque; Mim (Lee) Wheeler of Arlington, VA; Sue (Larry Doland) of Bellevue; and Amy (Brian) Bristow of Alexandria, VA.

Her grandchildren are: Chris (Liza) Hipschen, Christiana Hipschen, Eliza Hipschen, Jessalyn (Cody) Roberdeau, Rebecca (Joel) Richardson, Jamie (Hailey) Hipschen, Hunter Hipschen, Jennie (John) Hager, Josh (Trina) Miller, and Jiah (Todd) Sieverding.

Her great grandchildren include: Alex and Sofia Hinke; Henry and Jettie Hipschen; Sarah Hipschen; Lydia and Ruth Richardson; Winn Roberdeau; Aubrie, Austin and Aunika Hager; Kourtney Hoppenjan and Kailey Miller; and Brexley, Atlee and Brecken Sieverding.

The family extends special thanks to those at Mercy Hospital, MVCC, Jackson County Hospice and the private caregivers who helped care for Midge in her final years. We were especially blessed to have Kathy Ohlert caring for Midge in her last months. She provided vigilant and compassionate care, support and friendship.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Linda W. Osterkamp

Linda W. Osterkamp, 75, of Mineral Point, WI, formerly of Dubuque passed away Monday, May 18, 2020 at Unity Point Health Meriter Hospital.

Private family visitation and funeral services will be on Saturday, May 23, 2020 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Pastor Charles Tharp officiating. Burial will follow at the Bellevue Presbyterian Cemetery in Bellevue, Iowa. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions a live stream of the funeral service will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page at 11:00 a.m. Saturday.

Linda was born on August 15, 1944, in Independence Iowa the daughter of Wayne and Dorothy (Gibson) Clark. She attended Clarke College and graduated with her master’s in business administration. On July 28, 1963 she married Melvern Osterkamp, they would later divorce. She was the Business Manager of the Sears Optical Department in Dubuque. Linda was concerned with women’s rights and was a member of NOW. Linda also volunteered with many groups and causes. She helped out at the Ruby Sutton Center, with dinners at the Journey Church and with foster children. She had a deep concern for the underprivileged and worked through political causes for their betterment. Later in life she became a Chicago Bulls Fan and enjoyed watching them play with her family.

Linda was a very family oriented, generous and forgiving individual who touched so many throughout her life.

She is survived by her five children Kim Lembke, Pam Evilsizer, Kari (Chris) Pfab, David (Heather) Osterkamp, and John Osterkamp, her sixteen grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, her three sisters, Donna (Paul) Scheideberg, Cindy (Pete) Skaggs, Bobbi (Tony) Strope, her brother Charles “Chuck” (Connie) Clark, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her former spouse Melvern, her daughter Trisha, a sister Sherry McGill and a half brother James Clark.

Linda’s family would like to thank all their friends and family for all their support over the years, and to all the medical professionals who cared for Linda.

James D. Metcalf

James D. “Jim” Metcalf, 83, of rural Peosta, IA, passed away at 5:24 p.m. on Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at home surrounded by family & friends following a extended illness.

Private Family Funeral Services and Burial will be Tuesday, May 26, 2020, at Dubuque Memorial Gardens, with Pastor Penny Knutsen officiating. Live-streaming of the services will begin at 11:00 a.m. To view, please go to the Miller Funeral Home Group Facebook page and click on LIKE. A Public Drive-By Viewing will be held from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m., on Monday, May 25, 2020, in front of the entrance to the Dubuque County Fairgrounds Ballroom. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family requests that no one exit their vehicles. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque IL is serving the family.

Jim was born January 31, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, the son of David E. and Hazel F. (Addyman) Metcalf. He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, class of 1955. On January 14, 1956, he was united in marriage to Beverly Ann Chesterman in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on October 8, 2014.

Jim farmed his entire life and also drove school bus for the Dubuque Community School System for over 55 years. He enjoyed dancing, restoring old tractors, mowing lawns, going on tractor rides, and loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jim was a long-time member of the Dubuque County Fair Board and the Rockdale United Methodist Church.

Surviving are three children, Jim (Rose) Metcalf, Jr., Deb Vize and friend Rich Block both of Peosta, and Jeffrey A. Metcalf of Brighton, CO; 8-grandchildren, Greg Metcalf, Alexander (Angie) Metcalf, Tyler Metcalf, Erin (Bryan) Engler, Jolynn (Jim) Hefel, Dayon, Andrew and Ebony Metcalf; 9-great grandchildren, Miles Metcalf, Joseph Vize, Kayden, Halle, and Quinten Hefel, Lily and Grace Engler, Amelia and Zane Metcalf; his friend, Shirley Kellogg of Dubuque; a sister, Janice Metcalf; and in-laws, Bill (Linda) Chesterman, Jr. and Carol Chesterman, all of Peosta.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, David and Hazel, his wife Beverly, a daughter Kimberlyn (Kim) Metcalf, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, William Frederick and Helen M. (Donatsch) Chesterman, and brother, Dale Metcalf.

In lieu of flowers, a James D. “Jim” Metcalf Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be left at the viewing on Monday or else mailed to: Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Route 35 N, East Dubuque, IL, 61025 – Attn: James Metcalf Family.

Jim’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff from Hospice of Dubuque and Ruth Scheitzach for the wonderful care and support given to Jim during his last illness.

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

John J. Bruno

John Joseph Bruno, 70, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, May 20, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque due to COVID-19.

Our dear father and grandfather deserves a beautiful tribute. However, in this unknown time with COVID-19 pandemic, having a public visitation is not possible. Please keep the family in your prayers.

John was born March 23, 1950, in Waterloo, IA, the son of Robert and Beatrice Bruno.

He enjoyed watching the History Channel on TV, eating Caramello candy bars, and spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include one son, Joseph Kelley Bruno, his two grandsons, Kellen and Dylan, four brothers, and two sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his five brothers.

The family would like to thank Dubuque Specialty Care for taking care of John.

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

Peter K. Nelson

Peter K. Nelson, 57, of Reno, NV, passed away peacefully at his residence on May 11, 2020 as a result of Huntington’s Disease. He was born October 5, 1962 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Donald K. Nelson and Helen “Maurie” (Stewart) Nelson.

Pete graduated from Hempstead and the University of Iowa. Pete was employed in Atlanta, GA for a number of years, returned to Dubuque and then moved to Reno. Pete was a music lover who was known for his quick wit and his kind, compassionate spirit.

Pete is survived by his father, Donald K Nelson of Sparks, NV, his sister, Suzanne Ohnesorge of Dubuque, IA, his brother, Randy (Patty) Nelson and his aunt, Doris Nelson both of Sparks, NV, his former wife, Scarlett Nelson of Alpharetta, GA, numerous nieces and nephews and a host of loyal and caring friends. He was preceded in death by his mother Helen Nelson and his brother David Nelson.

Private burial will be in Center Grove Cemetery, Dubuque. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com. Memorials in Pete’s name may be made to the University of Iowa Foundation-HD Center. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

John E. Tillman

John E. Tillman, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, the day after his 92nd birthday, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To celebrate John’s life, private family services will be held because of the current gathering restrictions due to COVID-19.  A Celebration of John’s Life, and Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick’s Church at a later time.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

John was born on May 18, 1928, in St. Lucas, Iowa, son of Edward and Catherine (Kipp) Tillman.

John was united in marriage to Elizabeth “Betty” McPoland on November 22, 1956, at the Church of the Nativity, and they were blessed with 55 wonderful years together before she was sadly called home ahead of him on June 10, 2012.  John devoted 36 years of his working career to the Dubuque Packing Company in the stockyards until his well earned retirement.  He was a faith filled man who was a long time member of St. Patrick’s Church, where he volunteered his time assisting with the Wednesday night meals for the unemployed.  He was also a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Legion of Mary, where he served as president, the Power of Prayer, and helped out with food donations at the Dubuque Area Labor Harvest.  John was all about teaching others the skills he had learned throughout the years and was a long time Boy Scout leader.  When he found some free time, John enjoyed camping, fishing and heading down to the river to watch the barges lock through.  He was also a big NASCAR fan.  John was known to occasionally head down to the casino to try his luck at, “winning the big bucks”, with family and friends.  John was always a people person and enjoyed calling bingo for the residents at Heritage Manor and Dubuque Specialty Care.  Trips to watch the Saints play were always a big hit, and he especially enjoyed watching his great-grandson play hockey with the Dubuque Devils.  John also enjoyed a little quiet time sitting and working crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles and sudoku.  Beyond a doubt, John’s family was always his top priority, he loved spending time with them any chance he could.  He liked playing cards and enjoyed Cribbage, but his favorite was a competitive game of Euchre, he even has the broken tables to prove it.  We are deeply saddened at losing our father so close to our brother Leo, but take some comfort in the knowledge that they are now happily reunited in Heaven with all of our family members who have been called home ahead of us.

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

his children,
Rose (Rick) Pfeiler Follman, Dubuque, IA,
Francis (Maureen) Tillman, Bellevue, IA
and Vincent Tillman, Dubuque, IA;

his 10 grandchildren;

his 25 great-grandchildren;

and his siblings,
Alvera Kleve, Postville, IA,
Phyllis Massman, West Union, IA,
Robert (Cynthia) Tillman, Clairmont, IA
and Merle Tillman, Belvidere, IL.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Tillman; a daughter, Nancy Tillman; 2 sons, Thomas Tillman and Leo Tillman; a grandson, Timothy Tillman; 2 sisters, Dorothy (Romanus) Junk and Margarite (Donald) Stammeyer; 3 brothers, Joseph Tillman, Marcellus (Gertrude) Tillman and Herbert (Betty) Tillman; a sister-in-law, Pam Tillman; and 2 brothers-in-law, Marvin Kelve and Donald Massman.

John’s family wants to thank all the family and friends that have been there to support John throughout the years.  We also want to thank Dr. Christopher Stille, and the nurses and staff of Heritage Manor, Dubuque Specialty Care, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of your kindness and professional care of John.

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

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

Eula J. Goedert

Eula Jeane “Lolly” Goedert, 94, died Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at Luther Manor.

Private family funeral services will be held. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is assisting the family.

She was born on November 22, 1925 in Stockton, Illinois the daughter of Fred and Mary (Graf) Beyhl. She married Robert N. Goedert on January 15, 1944. He preceded her in death on December 19, 2007.

Lolly worked for The First National Bank for many years, retiring in 1989. She then worked part-time at Key City Investment Company.

She was a member of Wa -Tan- Ye, a service organization in Dubuque for 20 years. She enjoyed being with her family. She also did many cross- stitching pieces through the years.

Surviving are her three sons, Lawrence (Deborah), Dennis (Connie) and Rob (Tanja) all of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Lawrence Jr. (Tara), Julie (Craig), Dennis Jr. (Catana), Emalee (special friend, Steve Cuzas), Nicole and Hailey Goedert, Dena (Jerome) Lang, and Dawn (Bill) Stahl; 11 great-grandchildren, Nick (Lindsey), Andrea, Jake and Kayla (special friend, Mike Knoph) Dennison, Karlee, and Kholoe Goedert, Lainie and Averie Konzen, MacKenzie Lang and Paisley and Zatana Stahl; three great- great grandchildren, Michael and Lincoln Knoph and Ryder Goedert; two sisters, Sally Haas and Karen Heath; two sisters-in-law,  Betty Goedert and Bernice Beyhl; and her God Child, Judy Datisman.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Dean Beyhl; Willard Wagner, and Fred Beyhl; and four sisters, Alyce Grewe, Madelyn Smith, Doris Peil, and Adele Daack.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque.

Ethel V. Butlett

Ethel V. Butlett, 103, of Dubuque died Sunday, May 17, 2020 at Luther Manor of natural causes.

Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m., Wednesday, May 27, 2020 at Asbury Cemetery, Asbury Iowa. Rev. Karen Candee will officiate. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is assisting the family.

Ethel was born on July 8, 1916 in Dubuque, the daughter of August and Freda (Launspach) Smith. She grew up on the family farm on Cedar Ridge Road in Center Township.  She married Harold Butlett on July 17, 1934.  They divorced in 1967.  Ethel worked at Dubuque Pack for over 30 years on the bacon line.  She loved the outdoors and nursed injured wildlife back to health before releasing them.  They often came back to visit.

Ethel also had a green thumb caring for her many plants.  She brought the world an abundance of beauty with her many talents, caring nature, and sense of humor.  The stories of her growing up in the horse and buggy days will be sadly missed.

She enjoyed her time chatting with family and friends, especially her great –great- niece, Samantha.  They had a very special bond, even when playing Pokémon Go together.

Caregivers to their aunt, Robert and Janice Smith will miss their daily phone calls to check how her day went.

She is survived by her brother, Lyle “Ossie” (Marge) Smith and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her siblings, Fern Smith, Robert Smith, Ruth “Peach” Beecher, Ira “Tony” Smith and nephew, Lyle Smith, Jr.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Luther Manor and Sue from Hospice of Dubuque for the care Ethel received.