Obituaries Archive

Karen M. Kilkelly Kaune

Karen “Nani” Marie Kilkelly Kaune went home to the Lord on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after a long battle with COPD. A private family celebration to be held at a later date.

Karen was born April 20, 1955, to William and Mary Pat Kilkelly in Darlington, Wisconsin. Karen graduated from NICC with a degree in nursing.

After college, Karen went on to dedicate her career as a registered nurse at ManorCare of Dubuque and then later as a corporate, travelling, compliance nurse for HCR ManorCare until her retirement in 2012.

Karen married the love of her life, Steven Joseph Kaune on October 7, 1977. Karen and Steve’s daughters, Danielle (Chris) Reicks of Goddard, KS and Tiffany (Kelvin) Kengari of Wichita, KS, meant the world to them until the grandchildren came along. There wasn’t a soul on earth that could stand in the way of Nani and her grandchildren!

Karen and Steve enjoyed extravagant vacations to their favorite island in Montego Bay, Jamaica each year until their health declined. Karen was an avid walker and enjoyed exercising and shopping with her kids and grandkids. Nani’s favorite times were spent swimming, singing Karaoke, and having sleepovers with her grandchildren.  Each grandchild had their own special bond with their Nani.

Karen is preceded in death by her “Stevie” and husband of 47 years, her father William and mother Mary Pat, her Uncle Bill and Aunt Joanne, Uncle Chuck, father and mother-in-law, and brother-in-law Mike “Buck” Powers. She is survived by daughters, Danielle (Chris) Reicks and Tiffany (Kelvin) Kengari; grandchildren, CJ and Breckin Reicks, Tallen Engels, Kiyan and Kyrie Kengari; four siblings, Koni (Bob) Arnold, Mike (Carol) Kilkelly, Steve (Jana) Kilkelly, and Karla Powers; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to their angel Brandy. Without her help Karen’s wishes to remain at home would not have been possible.  They would also like to thank Phoenix Hospice, especially Michelle and Cindy who never stopped listening to Karen and allowing her to direct her plan of care.

May we all rejoice knowing that Karen has joined Steve for endless dinners on the beach. May Karen rest in peace and may perpetual light shine upon her.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey West Mortuary. Share tributes online at: www.dlwichita.com

Ed Conlan

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our brother Ed, on May 3, 2025, at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. The Rosary will be said at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael with Very Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque.

Ed was born on November 6, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Orville and Lucille (Kress) Conlan. He grew up on a farm south of Bernard and received his early education in a one room schoolhouse before going to St. Patrick’s North Garryowen. He then graduated from Aquin High School in Cascade, Iowa.

For many years after graduation Ed was a friendly and familiar face at Conlan’s Service Station in Bernard. Later in life, Ed moved to Dubuque, where he built a new circle of cherished friends. He possessed a truly kind and loving heart which he extended to everyone he met. Family was incredibly important to Ed, and he especially treasured spending time with his nieces and nephews, who were always overjoyed to have him join their celebrations.

A faithful parishioner of St. Raphael’s Cathedral, Ed found comfort and community in his faith and enjoyed quiet moments of prayer – especially reciting his daily rosary. He was a dedicated usher at St. Raphael’s; and as a member of the Knight of Columbus he actively participated in helping with bingo and serving meals at their various functions.

In his leisure time, Ed found joy in playing cards, especially euchre and UNO. He was an enthusiastic sports fan, passionately following NASCAR, NFL, and the Chicago Cubs. He had a great love for country music; and was so very proud of his Irish heritage. He wore kelly green anytime of the year and was extra happy on St. Patrick’s Day.

Ed is lovingly survived by five siblings Sister Patricia Conlan of Marion, Iowa, Francis (Darlene) Conlan of Bernard, Iowa, Mary Konrardy of Dubuque, Iowa, Doris (Allan) Sauser of Cascade, Iowa, and Dan (Barb) Conlan of Key West, Iowa, sister-in-law Gail Conlan of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, brother-in-law Ron “Zip” (Margie) Gassman of Bernard, Iowa, and 17 nieces and nephews.

He is reunited with his parents, siblings Grace Gassman and Joe Conlan, and brother-in-law Roger Konrardy.

Our family thanks Very Rev. Dennis Quint, Sister Sharon Rezmer, and Monica Daly for their prayers and visits to Ed. Thanks also to Jim Betzner and Bob Arensdorf for their loyal friendship to Ed. Our family extends deep gratitude to Dr. Brian Loc for his compassionate and professional care, along with the Cardiac Medical staff, especially Tammy, Beth, and Katie. We are grateful to the staff at Harmony Care Center for your kindness to Ed; and will always remember his good friends at the Ecumenical Tower and Harmony. Our family thanks Pat Leonard, Kristin, and Eddie for your kindness to us at this sad time: your concern and friendship will never be forgotten. Most importantly, our family thanks our dear sister Mary; Ed’s guardian angel on earth.

Ed’s gentle, warm smile, and kind heart will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who were blessed to know him. May he rest in peace.

Bernard D. Fishnick

Karen D. Morehead

Karen D. Morehead, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, 2025, at home.

Karen Denise Brauer was born on May 3, 1958 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Richard and Lorraine (Funk) Brauer.  Karen graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1976 and continued her education at The Finley Hospital School of Radiologic Technology, where she graduated in 1978. Her dedication to helping others led her to a fulfilling career as an X-Ray Technician and Mammographer at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, where she served the community for over 36 years with compassion and professionalism.

On September 1, 1979, Karen married the love of her life, Stuart Lynn Morehead, in a ceremony in Dubuque. They were blessed with three children: April, Erin, and Tim.

Karen enjoyed playing Euchre, being outdoors, spending time with family and friends, and never missing out on anything to do with her grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Lynn Morehead of Maquoketa, IA; children, April (CJ) of Maquoketa, IA, Erin (Matt) of Maquoketa, IA, and Tim (Maisie) of Preston, IA; 9 grandchildren, Karlye, Klaire, Kole, Tyson, Derek, Luke, Brody, Aliya, and Braydon; and siblings, Debbie Helmsorig of NY, Becky (Tom) Meyer of CO, Dick (Chris) Brauer of Dubuque, IA, Kathy (Jeff) Nank of WI, Dave (Shawn) Brauer of Waterloo, IA, Jeff Brauer of CO, and Brian (Val) Brauer of KS.  She was preceded in death by her parents Richard and Lorraine Brauer, and a grandchild Lauren Weis.

A public visitation celebrating Karen’s life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, May 15, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private graveside service and burial will be held at the East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the visitation.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Karen D. Morehead memorial fund has been established.

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

Kenneth J. Nurre

Kenneth J. Nurre, 83, of Dyersville, Iowa, formerly of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 11, 2025, at Accura Healthcare of Cascade.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa, with burial following in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate.

Kenneth was born on December 30, 1941, in Petersburg, Iowa, son of Aloysius and Abeline (Klostermann) Nurre. He married Dorothy “Dottie” Vaske on May 30, 1964, in New Vienna, Iowa.

Ken was a devoted husband, and father, always providing for his family. As a truck driver, his work took him away and always brought him home, driving over 2 million miles without accident. In retirement, he continued his love of driving, as a school bus driver in Rockford for ten years and mowing his lawn on a John Deere. Ken was a humble and faith filled man with a deep adoration for God.

Survivors include his loving wife of 60 years, Dottie, children: Vicky Nurre of Arlington, VA, Tom (Vena) Nurre of Fairfax, Susie Sondag of West Palm Beach, FL, Gregg Nurre of Rockford, IL; grandchildren: Grahm, Quinn, Olivia, Isabelle; siblings: Rosemary Nickol of Dyersville, Gary (Rita) Nurre of Petersburg; in-laws: Helen Nurre, Bill Vaske, Helen Langel, Dick Vaske, Jim (Bev) Vaske, and Marty (Joan) Vaske.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Timothy John Nurre; siblings: Verna Mae (Julius) Steffen, Joe Nurre, Fritz (Rosemarie) Nurre, Arlene (Dave) Steffen, Charlie (Alice) Nurre; in-laws: Barney Langel, Pat Vaske, Charlie (Mary Alice) Vaske.

The family would like to thank the staff at Accura HealthCare of Cascade and Hospice of Dubuque for their incredibly compassionate care.

Memorials may be made to Corpus Christi Monastery of the Poor Clares in Rockford, IL or SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg, IA.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Lawrence S. Poston

Lawrence S. Poston, 86, of Galena, IL, passed away on Friday, April 11, 2025. A memorial service will be held at Noon on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at Grace Episcopal Church, Galena. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on October 29, 1938, in Louisville, KY, to Lawrence and Nancy (Greene) Poston Jr. Poston self-described “faculty brat,” grew up in Galesburg, IL, and Norman, OK. He graduated from the University of Oklahoma and continued his studies, earning a Ph.D. in English from Princeton University in 1963. In 1966, he married his wife of fifty-eight years, Carol Hoaglan, in Lincoln, NE, and she survives him. He taught at the University of Nebraska in Lincoln for ten years before moving to the University of Illinois at Chicago, then known as Chicago Circle, from which he retired in 2004. Poston also served for two years as a staff member of the American Association of University Professors and remained active in the organization, including a term as second vice president. Additionally, he was involved with the Modern Language Association of America.

A full-time resident of Galena since 2011, he and his wife Carol initially built their home as a summer residence in the Galena Territory six years earlier. He was a member of the Education and Scholarship Commission of the Galena Territory Foundation, where he reviewed applications for the Lend-a-Hand scholarship program, interviewing graduating seniors from Galena, River Ridge, and Scales Mound high schools. He often expressed that this role was a perfect capstone to his forty years in higher education, stating, “I learned why we have some wonderful students in our freshman classes and equally wonderful and dedicated teachers and staff to help prepare them for college.” He was also a member of Grace Episcopal Church in Galena.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; a daughter, Rachel, who lives in the Chicago suburbs; son-in-law David Jesuit; and two grandchildren, Daniel Jesuit and Gianna Feiler.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Andrew, who passed away in infancy, and a daughter, Anne, who died in 2022.

The family requests that memorial gifts be sent to the Education and Scholarship Commission of the Galena Territory Foundation, 2700 Territory Drive, Galena, IL.

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

Mary A. Lansing

Mary Ann Lansing, 85, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 9, 2025, at her home.

A prayer service will be held at 5:00 pm Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 8:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary Ann will be 10:30 am Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary Ann was born December 30, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Clarence  and Gertrude  Ramaker Pfohl. On October 10, 1959, she married Patrick A. Lansing at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died January 25, 2018.

She was a graduate of Immaculate Conception Academy.

Mary Ann was a secretary for her family’s business, C.P. Pfohl Electric Company.

Mary Ann was a woman of simple joys, steadfast love, and deep faith. She was a talented seamstress and would make clothing for her children and grandchildren. Mary Ann had a deep affection for her dogs, treating them as cherished members of the family. She enjoyed quiet moments playing solitaire and the occasional thrill of video poker, always with a twinkle in her eye. She loved to shop and had a special fondness for collecting angels. Her passion for decorating made every holiday a celebration, as she transformed her home into a warm, welcoming space filled with seasonal cheer. Above all, Mary Ann loved her family deeply. She was a proud and devoted grandmother, rarely missing a sporting event or special moment in her grandchildren’s lives. Mary Ann was a faithful woman and a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church, where her strong faith guided her throughout her life.

Survivors include her three children, Cindy Breiner of Sherrill, IA, Steve (fiancé, Beth Camacaris) Lansing of McHenry, IL and Dan Lansing of Silvis, IL; 14 grandchildren, Mike (Laura) Breiner,  Matthew (Abbey) Breiner, Kristy (Adam) Dupont, Kimmie (Travis) Birkel, Keri (Dillon) Hosch, Cameron (Kendall) Lansing, Jim Lucente, Danielle (Alex) Larson, Cassie (Nolan) Heatley, Julia Lansing, Corey (Morgan) Lansing, Chloe Lansing, Cole Lansing, Claire (Christian) Ennis; 29 great-grandchildren, Ty, Tate, Julia, Tripp, Jodi, Carly, Lydia, Brody, Layna, Mason, Sawyer, Madison, Allie, Max, Karson, Kelton, Kollin, Hattie, Aaliyah, Paisley, Emmy, Louis, Eli, Maive, Eze, Aiden, Everett, Maelyn, Koa, and one on the way; three sisters-in-law, Patsy (Richard) Theisen, Betty (Vince) VandenHuevel, and Jana Lammers, all of Dubuque; numerous nieces and nephews; and her beloved furry child, Zoey.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one son-in-law, Jim Breiner, her parents, her father- and mother-in-law, Leo and Ida Lansing, and brothers- and sisters-in-law, Jerome Lansing, Eugene Lansing, Roger Lansing, and Mary Ann LaBee.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Holy Ghost Catholic Church and Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank her nurse Angela and the staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their care and support and her granddaughter, Claire, for her taking care of her grandmother.

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

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

Ann K. Brimeyer

Ann K. Brimeyer, age 82, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Luther Manor.  To celebrate Ann’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, May 12, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road with Rev. Nichole Robson officiating.

Ann was born on July 27, 1942, in Galena, IL, the daughter of Delbert and Vada (Geiger) Symons.

She attended school in Galena. Ann met her future husband, Roger Brimeyer, at the Y Drive In on Hwy 32 in Galena over a case of beer in 1962.  They were married on August 17, 1963 in Galena.  Ann and Roger moved often for his career as they raised their four sons, living in Jersey Shore, PA, Atlanta, GA, Freeport, IL, St. Charles, MO and Fond du Lac, WI before retiring back to Dubuque in 2001.  She and Roger were longtime members of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.  In her free time, Ann enjoyed traveling with her family throughout the Midwest, doing needlework and shopping.  Ann was a wonderful woman who loved her family and will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Those left to cherish Ann’s memory include

her husband,
Roger Brimeyer, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Timothy (Mary) Brimeyer, Harvest, AL,
Curtis Brimeyer, Dubuque, IA
and Jason (Tracey) Brimeyer, Lexington, KY;

8 grandchildren,
John, Michelle, Skyler, Aurora, Owen, Sadie Anne, Nicole and Jeremy;

5 great-grandchildren,
Maddox, Diayana, Rowan, Silas and Aradia;

and her sister,
Kathy (Jerry) Cain, Garrison, ND.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents; a son, David Brimeyer; and a sister, Marlene (Ken) Horstman.

Cards and memorials in Ann’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Ann Brimeyer Family.

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

Rita M. Osterberger

Rita M. Osterberger, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Wednesday, May 7th, 2025, at Stonehill Health Center with her family by her side after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 14th, 2025, at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. Dustin Vu officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service at 3:45 p.m.

Rita was born on August 19, 1945, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Herbert and Marguerite (Wagener) Welter. She attended Sacred Heart Elementary School, graduated from Wahlert High School and attended Clarke College all in Dubuque.

She married Richard “Dick” Osterberger on December 30th, 1967, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on March 23, 2017. Rita was a lifelong member of Nativity Parish. She worked for John Deere in Dubuque for 30 years until her retirement, in 2001.

In retirement Rita volunteered at Mercy Gift Shop and subbed as a paraprofessional for the Dubuque Community Schools.

For those who knew Rita, you knew that she loved to be busy, she was a social butterfly. She enjoyed shopping, especially when she was finding a great deal. Throughout her life, she remained very active, enjoyed walking, biking, golfing, bowling and dancing. She was always ready for a game of cards and loved to bake for her family and friends. Traveling was another passion of hers, especially taking trips with her family. She found great joy in attending her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events.

Rita’s wardrobe was a vibrant display of colors, especially hot pink, and of course everything matched, and we mean everything! When she called to let you know the pool was open, you knew it was the start of her favorite season, swimsuit season! She wore her swimsuit from sunrise to sunset, no cover-up needed. Her home was a home to many, all were welcome. She loved to entertain, from pool days to the holiday gatherings, especially Christmas which consisted of not only her immediate family but her extended family. To Rita all were her immediate family. Rita had a great love not only for her children and grandchildren, but also for her nieces and nephews.

She had a heart of gold, so many were blessed to have her in their life. Rita touched the lives of many and the memories she left behind will forever be cherished in our hearts.

Rita is survived by her three children: Steve (Lisa) Osterberger, Jeff (Amy) Osterberger, both of Dubuque, and Julie (Chris) Bracey, of Madison, WI. Seven grandchildren; Alli, Bryce, Kaylee and Ellie (fiancé Connor Fitzpatrick) Osterberger; Ava, Niyah, and Nathan Bracey. Her siblings: Jean Vance, Laura Miller, David (Dawn) Welter; sisters and brother-in-law Karen Osterberger, Jim Osterberger and Ann (Steve) Seamer, all of Dubuque; along with many nieces and nephews who she dearly loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Dick, mother and father-in-law Gerald and Mildred Osterberger, brothers-in-law Jim Miller, Mike Vance, and Dave Osterberger.

In lieu of flowers a Rita Osterberger memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Oak Park Place and Stonehill Health Center, especially the memory care units for their wonderful care they gave to Rita. A special thank you to all of Rita’s family and friends for their unwavering love and support.

Brian J. Rudiger

Brian J. “Rudy” Rudiger, 57, of Dubuque, died Thursday, May 8, 2025, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Dubuque.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Derby Grange Golf, 13079 Derby Grange Road in Dubuque, from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm. Entombment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West, IA.

Brian was born on July 12, 1967, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Wayne E. and Sandra Lou (Massey) Rudiger.

Brian graduated from Hempstead High School. He was an avid sports fan, whether it was playing or watching. Brian especially enjoyed playing fast pitch softball, following in his dad and grandpas footsteps, as well as golf and volleyball. Although, his favorite pastime was watching his boys in their school events.

Survivors include his two sons, Tanner Rudiger of Chicago, IL, and Bryce Rudiger of Dubuque; two siblings, Renee (Bill) Wahlin of Stoughton, WI, and Ron (Laurie) Rudiger of Dubuque; two nephews, Ben and Corey; five nieces, Ali, Natalie, Jennifer, Jessica, and Kamber; four great-nieces, Gabriella, Laura,  Laney, and Lejla; two great-nephews, Calum and Nolan; two uncles, Lee T. (Vivian) Massey and David (Kristi) Massey; and one aunt, Irma Massey.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital, Ennoble Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

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

Sr. Donna Schauf, BVM

Sister Donna Schauf, BVM, (Blanche), 87, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2025, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Donna was a pastoral care minister at Marian Hall in Dubuque, Iowa. She ministered as an elementary teacher in Chicago; Kansas City, Mo.; Boone, Iowa; and Fort Dodge, Iowa, where she also served as principal. She was a preschool director and home tutor in David, Ky., and a HeadStart teacher and family support aide in Steele, Mo. She also served as pastoral associate and director of parish senior citizen ministry in Wichita, Kans.

She was born on July 25, 1937, in Wichita, Kans., to Walter and Ethel Rose (Somerhauser) Schauf. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1955, from St. Joseph, Wichita, Kans. She professed first vows on Feb. 3, 1958, and final vows on July 16, 1963.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother Gerald Schauf, brother-in-law Robert Robben, and sister-in-law Jill Schauf. She is survived by a sister Sherry Robben, Wichita, Kans.; a brother Thomas Schauf, Pahoa, Hawaii; nieces, nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 69 years.

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

Gary L. Sharkey

Gary Lynn Sharkey, 76, of Dubuque passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at Ennoble Manor.

A visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025, at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with Full Military Honors to be accorded at 7:00 p.m. by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Gary was born on April 20, 1949, in Dubuque, the son of Charles and Margaret (Allen) Sharkey. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1967. After High School he joined the United States Army and served from 1967 to 1970 mostly in Germany.

After his service he returned to Dubuque and worked at Dubuque John Deere until his retirement. He was a member of the UAW Local #94. He married Sarah Hines and she preceded him in death.

He is survived by his daughter Lynn Ann and two grandsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife and his seven brothers, Charles, George, Michael “Mick”, Dennis, Thomas, Tim, and Greg.

Deborah Gerhard

Deborah Gerhard, 65, of St. Donatus, Iowa, passed away peacefully on May 7th, 2025, surrounded by her family and close friends.

There will be a celebration of life where friends and family can join to celebrate Deborah’s life and share stories. The location and date are to be announced. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

She was born on July 2nd, 1959, in Marshalltown, Iowa to Jake and Agnes Stoddard. Deborah lived a life that centered around her family and making her grandkids smile. She loved horses and taking her grandkids to The National Western Stock Show in Denver. Deborah spent most of her life between Iowa and Colorado, two places that she loved. In Iowa, Deborah enjoyed the Mississippi River and boating with friends and family, particularly stopping at Massey Station. In Colorado, Deborah loved spending time with her four grandchildren. Trips to the Rocky Mountains: visiting Loveland Pass, Steamboat Springs, Lake Dillon, Copper Mountain, Winter Park or anywhere she could find live music. She touched the lives of everyone she met, her quick wit, sense of humor and smile were contagious. She lived life gracefully with comfort, hope, and reassurance of God’s love and presence. Deborah spent her career as a massage therapist and phlebotomist. She enjoyed volunteering at The Children’s Hospital of Colorado, helping anyway she could bring a smile to others.

She is survived by her husband, Marvin Gerhard, their sons, Nick Gerhard (Rhiauna Happold) Logan Gerhard (Denise Gerhard) and her grandchildren; Evelyn Gerhard, Ava Gerhard, Brayden Gerhard and Jayden Happold. Jake and Agnes Stoddard predeceased her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org or Children’s Hospital of Colorado www.childrenscolorado.org

Deborah will be deeply missed by everyone blessed to call her family or a friend.

Charles G. Jorgensen

Charles Glenn Jorgensen, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, May 7, 2025, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, after a five-year wrestling match with cancer.  He never gave up the quest for a final pin.  In his last month of life, he was kept pain free and comfortable by Hospice of Jackson County and the staff at Clover Ridge Place, and he was visited by many friends, that loving care made it possible for the family at his side to keep him surrounded by love.

Charles Glenn Jorgensen was born on November 9, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Arthur Christian and Cleone Jeanette (Kennard) Jorgensen.  His journey through life was marked by his commitment to education and service. After graduating from high school, he pursued higher education by attending Iowa State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and the University of Iowa. His academic endeavors were temporarily set aside as he answered the call of duty, serving in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1971, where he earned an honorable discharge for his service to his country.

The year 1966 was a pivotal one for Chuck, as he married the love of his life, Jeanne Bilidt, on September 3rd in Cresco, Iowa. Their union was blessed with love, laughter, and the joy of raising two daughters, Caytie and Meg.

Professionally, “Mr. J” dedicated himself to shaping young minds as a Social Studies teacher in the Maquoketa Community School District, where he served from 1972 until 2003. From 2004 to 2005, he became a Middle School teacher and Athletic Director at Andrew, Iowa.  He also had a passion for sports, achieving an Iowa State Wrestling championship his senior year in High School and coaching Jr High wrestling for many years. Chuck liked all of his students and encouraged them by his example to strive for excellence.

Chuck’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through in his summer and retirement ventures, where he worked as a painter alongside fellow teachers in their company, “Geez” Painting Company.  He also had rental properties and was a good landlord to many renters over the years.

A man of spiritual character, Chuck was a member of the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.  He sang in the choir and did yoga in the basement there as well as meeting weekly with a small group to pray for the world.  Chuck was a talented guitarist and vocalist, performing with the Black Velvet Band, where his love of music brought joy to many. He also was an avid fisherman, enjoyed traveling extensively in the West, and writing poetry.  In 2021, after a year of immunotherapy, he wrote a daily haiku poem and posted it on Facebook.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Jeanne Jorgensen of Maquoketa, IA; his daughters, Caytie (Mark) Anderson of Minneapolis, MN, and Meg (Andrew) Lipetzky of Lake Elmo, MN; his grandchildren, Berit, Dane, Ava, Natasha, and Greta; and his sister Patricia (Michael) Fitzgerald of Decorah, IA; his sister in law, Barbara (Jim) Holstrom of Cresco, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant son in 1969, and his sisters Sally Jenkins and Nancy Carpenter.

A Memorial Service will be held on May 30th at the Maquoketa Art Experience from 4:30 to 7 P.M.  Following a short commemoration service at 4:30 P.M. there will be a time of sharing stories, finger food, and wine for all his former students and anyone who knew and liked Chuck.  Please take advantage of the parking in the lot behind the building.  See you there.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County or Prairie Creek Recreation Area.

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

Dylan J. Ranson

Dylan J. Ranson, age 23, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 4, 2025. Born on August 23, 2001, in Dubuque, Dylan was the beloved son of Tiffany (Felderman) and Cory Ranson.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the funeral home with Pastor Dennis Schmitt officiating.

Dylan graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 2020 and continued his education at NICC, completing the John Deere Ag Tech program in 2022. Most recently, he joined the plumbing apprenticeship and worked alongside his dad for the family business, CR Total Plumbing.

Dylan had the biggest, kindest heart that he shared with us through his contagious smile. He had an infectious giggle that typically followed a funny story (many that we are hearing recently). He was hard-working, dependable, and determined. There was never a job he was afraid to tackle. He was always there wanting to help. You rarely had to ask him, but if you did, he replied with a “YUP.”

Dylan could fix anything. He had a love for rebuilding trucks, tractors, dirt bikes and jet skis to sell for the next big project. He enjoyed fish frys and pool matches with his buddies that sometimes ended up profitable. He was continuously on the hunt for the best pork tenderloin sandwich.

He was a loving older brother to Owen and Griffin and adored his naughty dog, Moose. He touched countless hearts, and the memories he created will be treasured forever.

He is survived by his parents, Cory and Tiffany Ranson, his siblings, Owen and Griffin Ranson, Grandma Diane (Dondlinger) Ranson, Grandma Shannon (Riniker) Felderman, Grandpa David Felderman, Great-Grandma Doris (Budde) Felderman, as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him!

He was preceded in death by his Grandpa Joseph Ranson Jr, and his beloved dog Jake.

In lieu of flowers a Dylan Ranson memorial fund will be established.

Cory, Tiffany, Owen and Griffin would like to thank all first responders, Dubuque Police, Chaplain Charels Tharp, and the Leonard Funeral Home Staff  for all their care, compassion and guidance. A special thank you to all of their family and friends for the comforting support and love during this difficult time.