Obituaries Archive

Jerry Holtz, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.)

Jerry Holtz, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.) passed away at his rural Ocean Springs, MS, home on July 7, 2020.

Jerry was born in Edgewood, Iowa on April 4, 1938 to George and Eunice Holtz. He graduated from the Edgewood High School in 1956, where he excelled in basketball and baseball. He maintained close ties with his classmates and enjoyed their reunions.

Jerry attended Loras College in Dubuque, IA., and graduated from the Alexian Brothers School of Nursing in Chicago. He was married to Kay Hermsen at Petersburg, IA., on August 26, 1961.

After several months’ employment at the former Xavier Hospital in Dubuque, he was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the Air Force. He received his anesthesia training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, TX. Along the way, Jerry also earned a BA degree in Economics from Park College in Missouri. He and his family lived at nine Air Force bases in the United States, Canada and Japan. His last duty station was Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, MS. Upon his retirement from the Air Force in 1982, he began his second career, in anesthesia at the Ocean Springs Hospital, retiring a second time in 2000.

Jerry was a member of the St. Elizabeth Seton Parish in Ocean Springs where he sang in the choir, was a member of the Knights of Columbus and was a part of the Friday morning cleaning crew. He happily mowed the fields at the church. He was in charge of running the semi-annual Blood Drives for the Knights for many years.

His hobbies were 1957 Thunderbirds, woodworking and collecting Lionel trains. He enjoyed playing Hearts and Euchre with his family, poker and bridge with friends.

Left to mourn his death are his wife of over 58 years, Kay; his daughter, Nancy Hough of Ocean Springs; sons, Terry Holtz of Vancleave, MS., Brian (Melisse) Holtz of Los Altos Hills, CA., and Duane Holtz of Ocean Springs; five granddaughters, Charlie and Morgan Hough of Ocean Springs, Zoe, Shannon and Heather Holtz of Los Altos Hills, CA.; in-laws, Lillian and Bob Steger of Dyersville, IA., Don and Shawn Hermsen of Epworth, IA.; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his parents -in-law, Leonard and Hilda Hermsen; his brother, Jack (Mary Jane) Holtz; his sister, Dorothy (Bob) Strub; his grandson, Blake Holtz; son-in-law, Ronnie Hough; and sister-in-law, Patricia Hermsen.

Due to the Covid 19 Pandemic, services will be private. The family requests you be with them in prayer.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, is honored to serve this family.

Sister Carol Frances Jegen, BVM

Sister Carol Frances Jegen, BVM, 94, of 1050 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at Marian Hall.

Sharing of Memories via Zoom will be from 9:30-10:15 AM on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, followed by a virtual visitation from 10:25-10:40 AM and the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:45 AM. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Carol Frances ministered as a teacher at Holy Family ES in Mason City, Iowa, as well as in St. Louis and Milwaukee. She was a professor at Mundelein College and Loyola University in Chicago.

She was born on Oct. 11, 1925, in Chicago to Julian and Evelyn Bostelmann Jegen. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1944, from St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on March 19, 1947, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1952.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Sister Mary Evelyn Jegen, SND; a brother, Richard Jegen; and brother-in-law, Robert Belke.

She is survived by sisters, Carol Belke, West Bloomfield, Mich., and Sister Evelyn Jegen, RC, Chicago; sister-in-law Genevieve Jegen, Chicago; nieces; nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 75 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.

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

Donald R. Mettille

 Donald Richard Mettille, 92, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on July 7, 2020 surrounded by his family at his home in Dubuque, IA.  

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 11th, 2019 at the Church of the Nativity with Rev. Andy Upah officiating. Entombment will follow in Mount Olivet Chapel Mausoleum. Full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Visitation will be prior to the mass from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Church of the Nativity.  If attending, the church kindly requests the use of masks and practice the social distance guidelines. If you are not able to attend a live stream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Don was born on April 3, 1928 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of George and Irene (Murphy) Mettille. He helped support the family after attending school in Lansing Iowa by working on the family farm and other jobs throughout northeastern Iowa.

He married Margaret Sheeley on September 16, 1950 at the Church of the Nativity and began work at Frommelt Industries (currently Rite-Hite). In 1951 he became a member of the US Army and served in the Korean War until 1953. Upon returning from Korea Don went back to Frommelt’s working in many different capacities until he retired in 1990 completing a 40 year career. After his 40 years he enjoyed helping out for many years at his son’s business – All Seasons Heating and Cooling.

Don and Margaret shared over 68 years of marriage. Don always enjoyed his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and some ballroom dancing including post-festivities! Throughout Don’s life no matter where he was or who he was talking with he always had a smile on his face, kind words of support, and an endless amount of positive attitude and energy – he lived and loved every day of his life!

All his life he loved to plant and grow a garden each year, hunting, fishing and playing a hand of euchre. In his later years he enjoyed traveling and sometimes the casinos!    Watching the Hawkeyes, Packers, and the Cubs with his family and friends was always a treat. Don belonged to the American Legion Post 6 for over 65 years and he was always volunteering with church and school activities.

He is survived by his eight children. Deb and Jim Frick of Davenport, IA and their children Abby and Brad Snyder and their daughter Grace of Roseville, MN, and Brian Frick and Brad Frick of Waukee IA.   Joe and Sue Mettille of Dubuque IA and their sons Matt Mettille of San Francisco, CA, Jeff Mettille of Washington DC, and Nate and Rachel Mettille and their daughters Lucy and Emmy of Eagan MN. Mike Mettille of Dubuque, IA and his daughter Ashley Mettille of Los Angeles, CA and his son Rob Lopez of Colorado Springs, CO.  Pat and Jeff Britt of Riverside, IA. Dave and Felisa Mettille and their daughters Sophia, Chloe and Mia, of Doylestown, PA, EmmaLee and Brian Montiero of Raleigh NC, Amanda of New York City, NY.  Mary Jo Mettille of Dubuque IA, Ann Mettille of Iowa City, IA, and Jacque Mettille of Dubuque, IA. His sister Rita Doughtery of Waukon, IA and his brother Jim Mettille and wife Connie of Lansing, IA and his sister-in-law Kay Mettille of Lansing, IA.

He is preceded in death by his wife Margaret and his parents and his brother Ralph Mettille, his sister-in-law Rose Ann Malone and her husband Robert Malone, brother-in-law John Doughtery, niece Barb Mettille, and nephew Jim Malone.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Hospice of Dubuque, American Legion Post 6 or Dubuque Humane Society.

The family wishes to thank all of the healthcare practitioners and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, Medical Associates, Mercy Hospital, Home Instead Senior Care and 24 Hour Nursing Care/VA.

Robert J. Thillman

Robert J. “Bob” Thillman, age 89 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on May 18, 2020, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.  To honor Bob’s life, a Celebration of Life and reception for his family and friends will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2020, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Bob’s granddaughter Melanie’s home, 2341 Maplewood Drive in Asbury.  Bob’s committal service will be held at the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque on Friday, July 25, 2020, at 2:00 p.m.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bob’s family.

Bob was born on March 20, 1931 in Dubuque, Iowa, the only son of Jack and Lou (Frommelt) Thillman.  He honorably joined the U.S. Air Force after high school and while stationed in Louisiana, met his beautiful bride to be, Marjorie McMillin.  They were united in marriage on January 29, 1956, and were blessed with 64 wonderful years together.  Eventually, Bob and Marjorie returned to Dubuque and began their family.  His 50 years of loyal service as a salesman with Montgomery Wards, followed by another 8 years at Loras College before finally retiring in 1993, was how he proudly provided for his family throughout the years.  Bob was a kind, wise, loving and unbelievably giving husband, father and grandfather and the example he set so diligently can be seen within the generations which follow.

Bob was never one to sit still very long and his active social life could easily wear out the youngest lads following his lead.  Among his favorite ways to enjoy a day off was with a fishing pole in hand, tending to his gardens, or meeting close friends for dinner.  If you did happen to witness Bob sitting down, it usually involved an evening at the Stock Car Races, his Cubbies working on another win, or fixing the world’s problems over a morning coffee with his friends at McDonald’s.  We will miss him more than he could ever possibly comprehend, but we trust that the Lord has Bob safely in His loving arms and will provide him with eternal peace, while we seek a little of our own as we wait patiently for our reunion.  Thank you, Bob, for every memory, act of love and lesson you’ve left behind; we will treasure each and every one in our hearts and minds moving forward.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his loving bride of 64 years,
Marjorie Thillman, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 4 children,
John (Marlene) Thillman, Long Beach, California,
Chris Bressler, Dubuque, Iowa,
David Thillman, Chino Hills, California,
and Jim Thillman, Los Angeles, California;

his 5 grandchildren,
Aaron (Laura) Bressler, Kimberly, Wisconsin,
Marie (David) Mattatall, Clayton, North Carolina,
Brandon Thillman, Brea, California,
Melanie (Chris Mill) Bressler, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Ryan Thillman, Brea, California;

his great-grandchildren,
Nicoli Mattatall, Coleson Mattatall, Elliot Bressler, and one on the way;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents.

Bob’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Mercy Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Bob’s family at 3405 Meggan Street, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001, along with the opportunity to share online condolences and memories at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Katherine “Kathy” Lubbers

Katherine “Kathy” Lubbers, 69, of Dubuque passed away Sunday, July 05, 2020.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2020 at the Church of the Resurrection where visitation will be held Thursday from 10 a.m. until time of service. The church kindly requests the use of masks and social distancing. Entombment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery Mausoleum. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com .

Kathy was born February 21, 1951 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Lloyd and Margaret (Graf) Lubbers. She attended St. Joseph Elementary School in Kay West and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1969.

She worked in data processing at Crescent Electric in East Dubuque and Mercy Medical Center. She quit working to become a Wife and Mother.

Per her wishes, she will be cremated and buried with her daughter, Kelly.

She is survived by her son, Lee (Seth) Jenks of Hawaii, a brother, Bill of Arkansas; sister, Carol (Dean) Miller of Nebraska, a niece, nephews, cousins, and her former husband, Ron Makovec.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her daughter, Kelly.

Mary M. Langkamp

Mary M. Langkamp, 91, of Potosi, WI joined her beloved husband in Heaven on Saturday, July 4th, 2020.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 9th, 2020 at St. Andrew Parish, 101 Church St, Tennyson, WI with Fr. Richard Leffler officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. until time of mass at the church. Burial will be in St. Andrew Catholic Cemetery, Tennyson, WI. Please remember to practice the social distancing guidelines and if you feel it necessary please wear a mask. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. If you are unable to attend the funeral, a live stream can be viewed on the funeral home Facebook page.

Mary was born on May 3rd, 1929, daughter of David and Laura (Turner) Reinecke. She married the love of her life, LeRoy Langkamp, on January 29th, 1951. They were joined in marriage for 63 wonderful years, there was no greater love story. They consistently exemplified what married life should be; how to live, love, laugh, forgive, and persevere. 10 children, 25 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren, all because two people fell in love. Her greatest joys in life were family and devotion to her faith.

After graduating from college, she entered the workforce with her father at the Potosi State Bank before assuming her greatest calling as a loving wife and mother. She was a humble, charitable, compassionate, gentle, hard-working and loving woman, beloved by all who knew her. Mary was always led by faith. Her beautiful soul was evident in the way her eyes would light up when she talked about those she loved and for the effortless Grace with which she raised her ever-growing family. She was admired more than she would ever take credit for and left an undeniable legacy of commitment to faith and family. God is everywhere, but he needed helping hands so he created mothers like Mary. Her children and grandchildren were blessed beyond measure that she was theirs. As her son Henry said, “Mother Teresa will be honored to sit by her side.”

Mary was always surrounded by loved ones. She enjoyed gardening, playing cards, reading, and baking. Each day began and ended with prayer. Her cooking and baking could not be matched, even by following the same recipe. The running joke among her grandchildren was, “Is this Grandma’s wheat bread or “Grandma’s” wheat bread? The secret ingredient had to be her love. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Deb (Buzz) Kittoe, Victoria (Dan) Kieler, Ted (Sue) Langkamp, Richard (Laura) Langkamp, Kim (John) Lohberg, Theresa (Jack) Steinhoff, Henry (Lori) Langkamp, Ann (Jerry) Domask, Kathy (Perry) Leibfried, & Lori (Ron) Zenz; grandchildren, Brad (Ashley) Kittoe, Jeremy (Michelle) Kittoe, Chris (Karly) Kittoe, Beth (Dan) Gullick, Karl Langkamp, Tyler (Emily) Langkamp, Mary (Nathaniel) Lohberg, Michelle (Chris) Brant, Audrey (Eric), Michael (Abby), Anthony (Kim) & Ethan Steinhoff, Krista (Brian) Hancock, Emily (Spence) Birkenholz, Mitch (Miranda), Jacob, & Sophie Langkamp, Matt (Tanya) & Joe Domask, Rachel (Zach) Stewart, Megan (Rhett) Weber, Mark (Tessa) Leibfried, Jason (Lindsay) & Mariah Zenz; 25 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; her in-laws, Bernice Broihahn, Franklin & Kathy Langkamp, Kathryn Powell, MaryAnn Riesselman, Rose Marie & John Reuter, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy Langkamp, her parents David and Laura Reinecke; parents-in-law Henry & Elizabeth Langkamp , siblings, Bill Reinecke and Jane Kaiser. In-Laws Mert Kaiser, Rita Reinecke, Mervin Broihahn, George Powell, Virgil Riesselman; granddaughter Stacy Kittoe-Brown, grandson Jonny Kieler, nephew Michael Broihahn and niece Peg Kershner.

A special thanks to all of Mary’s wonderful caregivers.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Rosemary C. (Ennis) Hohmann

Rosemary C. (Ennis) Hohmann, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on July 5, 2020, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital. To celebrate Rosemary’s life, private family services will be held at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery following cremation.

Rosemary was born on December 23, 1934, in Farley, Iowa, daughter of Lawrence and Rosella (Henry) Ennis.

Rosemary was united in marriage to the love of her life, Merlin Hohmann, on September 26, 1953, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. The two were blessed with 53 years of marriage and 5 children together before Merlin passed away on October 13, 2006. Not only was Rosemary a devoted wife and mother, she was employed outside of the home with The Battery Factory, WDBQ/KLYV, Eagle Window and Door for 30 years, Cottingham and Butler, as well as cleaning private homes. She had a great love of all animals and enjoyed feeding the neighborhood critters that wandered to her door. Rosemary’s family was truly her entire world, she always had time for each and every child and grandchild. Nothing in this world brought a bigger smile to her face than having her family surrounding her. We will miss our sweet, loving, caring mom, “Nana”, grandma, great-grandma and sister, more than words can say. We are extremely grateful for all of the wonderful memories you have created for our family throughout the years.

Those left to cherish Rosemary’s memory include

her 5 children,
Ronda Hohmann, Dubuque, IA,
Merlin Hohmann Jr., Dubuque, IA,
David (Deanne) Hohmann, Dubuque, IA,
Mark (Linda) Hohmann, Platteville, WI
and Lora (Donald) Ernst, East Dubuque, IL;

her 6 grandchildren,
Michael (Rachel), Christopher Sr., Alicia, Austin (Mallory), Anthony “AJ” (Andrea) and Benjamin;

her 10 great-grandchildren,
Taylor, Harmony, Christopher Jr., Emily, Lily, Lucas, Merle, Reuben, Theodore and Daniel;

and her siblings,
Richard (Marge) Ennis, East Dubuque, IL,
David (Anita) Ennis, Dubuque, IA,
Darlene Dossey, Worthington, IA,
Judy (Richard) Thurm, Epworth, IA
and Jean Braden, Mission, TX.

Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Merlin Hohmann Sr.; a sister in infancy; and a brother, William Ennis.

Rosemary’s family would like to thank all of the staff at Finley Hospital, especially the cardiac unit, for all of their care and compassion.

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

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

Thomas J. Churchill

Thomas J. Churchill, 59, of the Dominican Republic, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa and East Dubuque, Illinois, died Sunday morning, July 5, 2020, after battling cancer. A memorial mass will be held 10:30 AM Wednesday July 8, 2020 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

Tom was born on March 4, 1961. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1979.
Tom started in radio as an on-air weatherman at WDBQ-AM Radio at the age of 13. He gained notoriety for reportedly being more accurate than the National Weather Service. At 14, he appeared on the Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder. He also made an appearance on the television game show, The $128,000 Question, in the weather-related category. He was on Good Morning America, The Tom Snyder Show and KRON in San Francisco giving weather forecasts and filling in for their weather persons.

Tom also wrote software called Digital Weatherman in 1989. This software gave radio stations the opportunity to have real-time local weather forecasts delivered in a natural voice.

Tom is survived by his son, Georan Churchill of Boone, Iowa; two sisters, Jennifer (Gary) Schumacher of Dubuque and Edna (Joe Mooney) Churchill of Nettles Island, FL; his niece, Erin (Mike) Schumacher of Dubuque; and nephew, Noah Schumacher of Muscatine, Iowa.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, John V. “Jack” and Thoma M. “Tomie” Churchill; his maternal grandparents, Clarence “Barney” and Edna E. (Nelson) Grutz; and his paternal grandparents, Victor and Rose (Stevens) Churchill.

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

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

Margaret M. Steffen

Margaret M. “Maggi” Steffen, age 73, of Manchester, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on July 3, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving family, after a recent diagnosis with aggressive brain cancer.  To honor Maggi’s life, a private family memorial mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester.  Burial will be in the St. Mary Cemetery in Manchester.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Maggi’s family.

Maggi was born on June 28, 1947, in Manchester, Iowa, one of seven children to Linus A. and Alvina M. (Koopmann) Deutmeyer.   She married Thomas J. Steffen on October 26, 1968, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, and they built their first house together the following year.  Maggi had learned the value of hard work while growing up on the family dairy farm, and she rarely hesitated to take on a tough task.  She was creative, resourceful and a helper in every sense of the word.  She was a wonderful mom to the two daughters she and Tom were blessed with.

Maggi worked in the print shop at West Delaware Schools for 32 years, retiring in 2010.  During those years, she also worked on many projects with Tom, including the construction of another house.  This one came with the dream of creating an eighth-scale railroad — a dream which they achieved together and shared with family, friends and visitors.  Maggi planted and tended flower gardens on the property, adding to the beauty of the natural surroundings.

When Maggi wasn’t working outside, she could likely be found baking some delicious treats.  She made Sunday brunch and holiday celebrations special times for her granddaughters and the rest of the family.  She was a woman of grace, steadfast love, faithfulness and courage.  She trusted the Lord, and let His life shine through her each and every day.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Maggi include,

her loving husband of 51 years,
Tom Steffen, Manchester, Iowa;

their two daughters,
Shelly (Ron) Heims, West Des Moines, Iowa,
and Kary (Bob) Naeve, Manchester, Iowa;

their five granddaughters,
Kaitlyn, Kelsey, Grace and Lexi Heims, and Lydia Naeve:

her siblings,
James (Barbara) Deutmeyer, Maquoketa, Iowa,
Anna (Dave) Philipp, Greeley, Iowa,
Allen (Coleen) Deutmeyer, Elkader, Iowa,
Patrick (Lila) Deutmeyer, Manchester, Iowa;

her sisters-in-law,
Nancy Deutmeyer, Palo, Iowa,
and Doris Deutmeyer, Manchester, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Maggi was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Francis Deutmeyer and Richard Deutmeyer.

Maggi’s family would like to thank all the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who helped her with surgery and recovery as well as Above and Beyond Hospice for their wonderful care and support during these most difficult days.

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

David C. Goetzinger

David C. Goetzinger passed away on July 2, 2020, at the age of 70, following a hard-fought battle with cancer.  To celebrate David’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, July 6, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor David’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, July 7, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

David was born on June 6, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Charles and Gladys (Donatsch) Goetzinger.

David attended school in Sherrill, Iowa, until 1959 when the family moved to Boscobel, Wisconsin, where he graduated from high school in 1968.  He attended Stout State University in Menominee, WI, earning his degree in engineering.  David played football in high school, at Stout State and tried out for the Edmonton Eskimos.  After finishing school, David went to work at John Deere Dubuque Works as an Engineer Analyst, until his well earned retirement in 2000.  David was very talented and was always looking for a better way to do things, even earning a patent for one of his inventions.  David was quite athletic and everyone who knew him, knows that he could usually be found out riding his bicycle.  He officially started keeping track of his miles in 1982, amassing a log book that was over 400 pages long.  Riding the bike was sometimes hard on the body, he broke over 58 bones on his journey to logging 500,000 miles.  David enjoyed competing with others and was awarded countless medals and trophies throughout the years.  We are deeply saddened at losing David in our daily lives, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now free of all the health issues he has battled so bravely.

Those left to cherish David’s memory include

his mother,
Gladys Strachan;

his fiancé,
Gail Tigges;

his siblings,
Charlotte (John) Smith,
Marianne Dorsey,
Mark Goetzinger,
Rose (Andrew) Schaepe
and Grace (Jack) Barrows;

and several nieces and nephews.

David was preceded in death by his father, Charles; and 2 sisters, Pauline and Joan.

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

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

Douglas J. Shinkunas

Douglas Joseph “Doug” Shinkunas, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer on July 1, 2020 at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Doug was born on January 23, 1947 in Sioux City, Iowa, the son of Joseph and Maxine (Bernard) Shinkunas. He excelled in athletics while attending Bishop Heelan Catholic High School in Sioux City and was awarded a basketball scholarship. Doug had the privilege to play for the mighty Loras Duhawks while earning his college degree. Doug married his college sweetheart Mary Jo Hail in May of 1969. They settled in Dubuque, had four children, and worked at the John Deere plant. Doug loved Dubuque.

Everyone who knew Doug will recall his passion for sports, particularly the Cubs, Bears, and Iowa Hawkeyes. Everyone who knew Doug will also remember his quick wit, intelligence, and amazing sense of humor.

Doug is survived by his brother (Joe), his sister (Sue), his four children (Tanya, Todd, Scott, and Sara), and his three grandchildren (Gabriel, Noah, and Ivan). Doug is preceded in death by his parents (Joseph and Maxine Shinkunas).

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful, caring, and supportive staff at Ennoble. Michelle, Abby S., Abby L., Danielle, Mary, Nita, Heidi, Ron, and Paula remember Doug as very thoughtful, giving, and empathetic. The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Sue Belcher for her support, generosity, and most importantly, for being a good friend to Doug throughout the years.

Family and friends may visit and share memories from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on July 17, 2020 at Shiras Memorial in Eagle Point Park. The family ask all visitors to wear a mask and practice social distancing guidelines. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Kelli A. Horch

Kelli A. “Dinger” Horch, 41, of Davenport, Iowa, formerly of Dubuque, died by suicide on Tuesday, June 30, 2020.

A memorial for friends and family will be held at a later date.  The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is in entrusted with arrangements.

Kelli was born on August 31, 1978, the daughter of Steven and Debra (Clough) Horch and graduated from Stephen Hempstead High School in 1996. She held an Associate Degree in Social Work (NICC), a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (Loras College), and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (University of Dubuque), but she was far more proud of the thousands of airline miles and concert ticket stubs she accumulated over the years with family and friends.

Kelli began working at Mt. Carmel at the age of 14 and continued to do so, nights and weekends, for many years.  With the help and encouragement of her mentor, Arnie Honkamp, she started a career in Human Resources at Honkamp Kruger and Company.  Most recently, she worked at the Good Samaritan Society as the Director of Finance, but previously served as their Director of Human Resources.  Kelli also briefly taught master’s level evening classes at the University of Dubuque until discovering roller derby.  When it came to the Dubuque Bomb Squad, it was love at first skate.

Kelli was a ridiculously photogenic kind soul and a fantastic pen pal who touched many lives. In her final letter she asked everyone to “be brave, be yourself, and love each other unconditionally.”

She is survived by her parents, Steve and Debra Horch; sister, Manda Mattoon; niece, Devin Mattoon; and nephew, Andrew Mattoon; her girlfriend, Karol “KP” Patrick, and her children, Wyatt Patrick and Silas Spengler; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and her beloved, fur babies, Pepe, Speck, and Penni.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Fred and Betts Horch; Milt and Iris Clough; and fur babies Sidney Bean and King Louis III.

In lieu of flowers; she asked that memorials be given to the Good Samaritan Society – Davenport.

Kelli’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Natasha Gilbert for her friendship and to Jake Schubert and Jess Jewett for their love and support.

A special note from her family:

We understand it may be uncomfortable to see the word suicide in an obituary, we also believe it should be talked about and not stigmatized or hidden.  Kelli struggled several years with mental health; and while we want to acknowledge and honor her successes, we also need to recognize the toll depression and anxiety took on her life.  The worst part about having a mental illness is people expect you to behave as if you don’t.  So, if you or a loved one are struggling, know you are not alone.  Reach out. Call 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor.

David D. Otten

David D. “Dave” Otten, 61, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 1, 2020, at his home surrounded by family.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, July 8, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation and burial will be at a later date.

David Dale Otten was born on June 7, 1959 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Larry and Bonnie Lee (Mackey) Otten.  He grew up in the Monmouth area and served his country in the U.S. Navy earning an honorable discharge.

“Dave” loved working with tools and was a mechanic for 34 years at various places in Eastern Iowa.  He then became a repairman for Illowa Gaming Systems and was in charge of maintaining gaming systems at bars and restaurants.

“Dave” enjoyed fishing, boating, hunting, fixing things, and spending time with his family.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, James (Sara) Hidalgo of Apple Valley, CA, Casandra (Tyree) Turman of Delmar, IA, and Zachary (and significant other Erica Norton) Otten of Delmar, IA; step-daughter, Misty Ehlers of Maquoketa, IA; 19 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild; brother, Dan Otten of Cottage Grove, WI; and sisters, Kathy Otten of Monroe, NC, Kelly Carr of Sabula, IA, and Lynette (Tom) Rogers of Stone City, IA.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Cindy Pachtinger.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a David D. “Dave” Otten memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert P. Buechele

Robert P. “Bob” Buechele, age 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on July 1, 2020, at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Bob was born on February 26, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Paul and Virginia Buechele.  He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School before honorably serving his country. Bob was united in marriage to, Sandy Dahms, on November 19, 1960.

Bob enjoyed fishing, walking, going to the stock car races on Sunday nights, spending time in his garage working on his woodworking projects.  Bob was very proud of his grandkids and enjoyed spending time with them.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bob include,

his wife,
Sandy Buechele, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 4 daughters,
Laurie (John) Meyer, Dubuque, Iowa,
Cherie (Robert) Hough, Richland, Michigan,
Lisa (Craig) Then, Lena, Illinois,
and Angie (Gary) Jochum, Independence, Missouri;

his 9 grandchildren,
Michaela Meyer, Carter Meyer, Ryan Buechele, William Hough, Madelyn Hough, Adam Then, Josh Then, Shayla Jochum, and Shanna Jochum;

his brother,
Dave (Mickey) Buechele, Dubuque, Iowa;

his nephew,
Brett Buechele;

his niece,
Dana (Buechele) Weisrock;

his brother in-law,
Donald Dahms;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and two sisters.

Bob’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care, especially Melissa, Dr. Hermann/Tony, Dr. Konz, and her nurse, Sherry.

A private memorial will be held at a later date.

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

Earl R. Larson

Earl Richard “Buck” Larson, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 2, 2020 at home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, July 6th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 7th, 2020 at St. Columbkilles Catholic Church with Rev. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Family New Melleray Church Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. We remind you to practice the social distancing guidelines and if you are unable to attend the mass, a live stream will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Earl was born on June 21, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Otto T. and Marguerite (Burke) Larson. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1947. On August 26, 1953 Earl married Margaret C. McClain and together they shared 66 years of marriage.

He started his career as a printer with the Telegraph Herald on July 8, 1947 and retired on April 27, 1996. He was a member of the Dubuque Typographical Union No. 22, working in the composing room at the Telegraph Herald. He also worked for Hudson Gas Station in East Dubuque from 1966 to 1968. After retirement from the Telegraph Herald he worked airport security at Dubuque Regional Airport.

Earl is a US Army Veteran serving during the Korean War as a Radioman from 1951 to 1952. He received two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart.

Earl was an extremely hard-working man and loving father and he enjoyed family vacations to fish in the Great North woods. After retirement he enjoyed bicycling and caring for his beautiful lawn on Julien Dubuque Drive.

He is survived by his wife Margaret; five children, Michele (Dan) Hoefer and their children, Sarah (Nick) Nelson with son Bohde, Michael (Liz) Hoefer with children Lauren, Makala and Claire, Tony (Alina) Hoefer, and Peter Hoefer and children Rayne, Zaiden and Silas. Rebecca (Bruce) Cleland and their children, Kathryn (fiancé Nils Schongalla) Cleland, Emily Cleland and Ellen Cleland. Christine (Mark) Asbury and their children Adam (Rachel) Asbury with children Aiden, James, William and Christopher, and Carla (Michael) Cloos with children Katherine, Alyssa and Nathan. Nathan (Mary) Larson and their children Rachel (Igor) Gordienko with children Ariavne and Ainsley, Hannah (Kyle) Harper, Joseph (Kelly) Larson, Julia Larson and Jacob Larson. Jennifer Larson and son Levi French. Sisters-in-law Beverly Larson, Marian Dayton, Rosie McClain and Jean McClain; brother-in-law Louie Timp. Along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents Otto and Marguerite; his father and mother-in-law Mike and Julia McClain; his sister Eileen (Robert) Koehler; brother Ronald Larson and nephew Stacey Larson.

In lieu of flowers a Earl Larson memorial fund will be established.