Obituaries Archive

Ann T. Dietzel

Ann T. Dietzel, 95, of 3485 Windsor Avenue, formerly of Alverno Apartments, Dubuque, died on Sunday, March 8, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 12, 2020, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dickeyville, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard Rott and Rev. Paul McManus officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Ghost Cemetery, Dickeyville.  Friends may call from 9-10:45 a.m. at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is in charge of the arrangements.

Ann was born on April 23, 1924, in Dickeyville, the daughter of Henry & Helena (Busch) Dietzel.  Ann moved to Dubuque in 1967 and was a self-employed beautician for most of her life.  She had a strong devotion to her church and the Blessed Mother.  She was a member of Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque and later, Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville.  She was a member of the 3rd Order of St. Francis and the Power of Prayer.  She was a Eucharistic Minister at Mercy Medical Center for many years.

Ann enjoyed gardening and flowers and was a wonderful cook and baker who will be long remembered for her delicious roast beef dinners and raspberry and rhubarb desserts.  She loved traveling, especially vacationing “Up North” in Wisconsin.  Ann dearly loved her nieces and nephews, her great-nieces and great-nephews and her great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews and would help them in any way that she could.  Ann had a special way of making everyone around her feel like the most important person in the world.

Surviving are her godson, Gene (Lois) Dietzel of Dickeyville and their family; her sister-in-law, Lucella Dietzel of Dickeyville; numerous nieces and nephews and their families; and her very good friends at Alverno Apartments and Stonehill Care Center.

She was preceded in death by her fiancé, Maynard Langmeier; her parents; two brothers, Bernard (Marcella) Dietzel and Ambrose Dietzel; three sisters, Marie Dietzel, Leona (Lavern) Digman and Angeline (Leonard) Digman; a nephew, Roland Dietzel; a great-nephew, Brian Muller; and a great niece, Katie Hartke.

An Ann T. Dietzel Memorial Fund has been established.

Ann’s family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they provided for Ann. 

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

Richard A. Kay

Richard “Rick” A. Kay, 71, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin, died Thursday, March 5, 2020, at home. A Memorial Service will be 3:00 p.m. Monday, March 9, 2020, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Calvin Hughes officiating. Friends may call from noon to 2:45 p.m. Monday at the funeral home before the service.

Rick was born on February 27, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of Edward H. and Dorothy B. (Herndobler) Kay. He married Alice T. Pluemer on July 1, 1972, at St. Andrew’s Church, Tennyson, Wisconsin. Rick was a math teacher at Dubuque Senior High School for 30+ years.

While attending UW-Platteville Rick played college football. Later he played semi-professional football and coached high school football. Rick enjoyed woodworking and was an avid collector of model trains. He also tutored neighborhood children. Rick loved family–his wife, daughters and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Alice; two daughters, Sarah (Shawn) Barbian, Oak Creek, WI, and Megan (Andrew) Bergholz, Whitefish Bay, WI; his grandchildren, Ava Barbian and Nolan, Owen and Madeline Bergholz; a sister, Nancy Zaborski, Couer d’Alene, ID; and two brothers, William (Judith) Kay, Mequon, WI, and Donald (Heather) Kay, Salt Lake City, UT.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother-in-law, Andrew Zaborski.

In lieu of flowers, a Richard “Rick” Kay Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Debra J. Fath

Debra J. “Debbie” (Fondell) Fath, age 63, of Dubuque, was called home unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 4, 2020, at home.  To celebrate Debbie’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, March 8, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  To honor Debbie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, March 9, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon John Stierman officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Debbie was born on August 28, 1956, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Richard A. and Mary Ellen (Ferguson) Fondell.

Debbie was a graduate of Stephen Hempstead High School and then took some college classes and earned her realtor’s license.  She was a hard worker and was employed for 28 years with Executive Management in the office.  She was united in marriage to Mark Kohn Sr., in 1973, and they were blessed with a son together.  Debbie was later united in marriage to the love of her life, Steven Fath, whom she actually met in grade school, in July of 1991, at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, Iowa.  In her free time, Debbie loved to watch crime tv shows, with NCIS being her favorite by far, she would watch and re-watch every episode.  She also enjoyed attending plays and musicals, and occasionally trying her luck at the Diamond Jo Casino.  Beyond a doubt, Debbie’s family was her entire world, she enjoyed shopping trips with the girls and going out to eat at her favorite restaurants.  We are truly heartbroken at losing Debbie so suddenly in our daily lives, and will miss her more than words can ever express.  We love you Debbie and will cherish all of the memories made throughout the years for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish Debbie’s memory include

her husband,
Steven Fath, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Mark (fiancé Jessica Hennings) Kohn, Dubuque, IA
and Kayla (Daren) Shaffer, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Megan, Alex, Tyler and Aubreigh;

her great-grandchildren,
Ashlynn, Owen, and Kinsley;

her siblings,
Richard “Rick” Fondell, Marshalltown, IA,
Linda Shepherd, Dubuque, IA,
Michael Fondell, Dubuque, IA,
Vicki Gearhart, Dubuque, IA
and Brian J. (Jennifer) Fondell, Dubuque, IA.

and really good and close friends,
Carol Copeland and Tom Swift, both of Dubuque, IA.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents; and a nephew, Jared Fondell.

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

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

Gladys J. Kruger

Gladys Jeanette Kruger, 97, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Red Wing, MN, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2020, with her family beside her in Dubuque.

—

Donna J. Durkop

Donna J. “Jeannie” Durkop, 73, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2020, at WestWing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, March 9, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Donna Jean Mussmann was born on April 24, 1946 in Clinton, Iowa, to Harold and Adala (Schmidt) Mussman.  She attended school in Goose Lake.  She married Duane D. Durkop, Sr. on July 17, 1965 in Preston, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on December 12, 2009.

Early in her marriage Donna had worked at the Speaker Factory in Sabula. She then became a homemaker and mother.  She enjoyed reading, watching television, making jewelry, gardening, grilling and family get-togethers.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Duane Durkop Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, Deanna Durkop of Monmouth, IA, Dawn Durkop of Monmouth, IA, and Donald Durkop of Monmouth, IA; siblings, Lois McCluskey, Frieda Lundin, Mary Ellen Seeser, Thomas (Mickey) Mussmann and Jane (John) VanHorn, all of Clinton, and Beverly (James) Galloway and Robert Mussmann, both of Low Moor; brother-in-law, Norman Pease of Miles, IA; and sisters-in-law, Sharon Mussmann of Bryant, IA, Linda Mussmann of Teeds Grove, IA and Barb Mussmann of Dubuque, IA; and very special family friends, Melissa Cutler and Robert Errthum.  She was preceded by her parents, her husband, a daughter Darla in 1967, a grandchild Tricia Ann in 2004, 5 brothers Arnold, Leighton, Marvin, Frederick and James, and 1 sister Judith Pease.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Donna J. “Jeannie” Durkop memorial fund has been established.

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

Joseph J. Meyer,

Joseph John “Joe” Meyer, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Saturday, February 29, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 Saturday, March 7, 2020 at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation for Joe will begin at 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Joe was born on May 5, 1940, in Dubuque the son of Arthur and Rose (Kolfenbach) Meyer. He graduated from Loras College and received his master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa. He served in the Iowa Army National Guard. He married Sharon Cahill in 1966 at Saint Patrick’s Church. Joe was a self-employed stockbroker for many years, never really retiring.

Joe had a passion for golf and played in many tournaments. He was proud of his 2 handicap and winning the city championship. He was the first member of Eagle Ridge Golf Club.

He is survived by his wife Sharon, a son Steven Meyer of Davenport, a brother-in-law and sister-in-law Robert and Jonneal Cahill and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Theresa in infancy, and a sister-in-law Kay Miller.

Memorials may be given to Stonehill or Hospice of Dubuque.

Sharon and Steve would like to thank the staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all the wonderful care they provided for Joe.

Roselynn J. D. Ruggles

Roselynn Judy Diane Ruggles, 3 months old, of Dubuque, was called home unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, at MercyOne Dubuque. To celebrate Roselynn’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor Roselynn’s life, we will begin sharing memories of her immediately following visitation at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday at Behr Funeral Home.

Roselynn was born to Emily McIntyre Lang and Jarrod Ruggles on November 11th, 2019. She was welcomed by her 3 big brothers Daniel Lang Jr., Jarrod Ruggles Jr., and Kayden Ruggles, as well as one big sister Maylynn Lang.

Before passing away Roselynn, fondly known as Rosie, made a great impact on this world. With her constant smiles and laughs she was always able to make any situation better. As a daddy’s girl, Jarrod was easily her favorite person although she was loved widely and will be missed greatly.

Aside from her parents and siblings, she is survived by her grandparents: Robyn McIntyre, Phil (Amanda) McClain, Eduardo Robles, and Tina (Roth) Ruggles. Her great-grandparents: Duane Roth and Judy (Robert) Roth, and her great great-grandma: Marge Roth. Her aunts and uncles: Francisco Robles, Kayla Robles, Antonio Robles, Tiana Robles, Cheyanne Robles, Tequillia Robles, Carlos Robles, Jaylynn Robles, Miranda Robles, Eric (Danielle) McIntyre, Elcy McIntyre, Elaina (Tyler) Bottoms, Ellie McIntyre, and Ellamay McIntyre. Her great aunts and uncles: Duane Roth, Tracey Roth, Robert (Amy) McIntyre, Roger McIntyre, Randy (Mindy) McIntyre, Renee McIntyre (Martin), and Rebecca McIntyre.

Roselynn is preceded in death by her grandparents, Rose (McIntyre) Valentine and Roger McIntyre; her great aunts, Tammy Roth and Katie McIntyre; as well as great great-grandpa, Ambrose Roth.

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

Frederick R. Wagener

Frederick Richard Wagener, 90 years of age, of Dubuque passed away February 26, 2020 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service are in the care of arrangements.

Rick was born June 7, 1929 in the village of Valley Stream, New York to Frederick R. and Emma (Langenfass) Wagener and as younger brother to Dorothy Cunningham.

Early on, Rick developed an interest in the stock market as a runner on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange at Wall Street. Rick later apprenticed as an engraver at his father’s company KayDeck Engraving in New York City, beginning a life-long career in the printing and engraving industry that was interrupted only when enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Korean conflict.

On March 11, 1950, he was joined in holy matrimony to Elizabeth Sullivan at the First Methodist Church in Richmond Hill New York. From this marriage, Rick was gifted with three daughters: Lisa (Jerry) Charley, Leslie Dearborn, and Kellie (Jim) Bodeker-Goranson. He encouraged his daughters to be independent, strong, and to pursue their desires. After the loss of Elizabeth in 1989, Rick was joined in marriage to Penny Marchman on 17 July 1993, expanding his family to include Lisa Carole (Roc) Kemmerer, Christy (Peter) Middleton, and Michael (Stephanie) Marchman.

Upon accepting a position with Regency Thermographers, Rick was instrumental in growing its business, opening several plants nationwide. Eventually, this led him to Dubuque, Iowa and the creation of a central midwestern hub for the company. After retiring in 1995 from his long career with Regency, Rick devoted time to his family and friends.

There was rarely a golf course that Rick did not like and never a rack of ribs he cooked that his family did not savor. Rick was a musician, an artist, and a businessman with a strong passion for providing for his family. Despite his best efforts and enduring patience, his considerable business skills and Wall Street savvy were not passed on to his family – sadly, neither was his smoked ribs expertise. Although his passion for politics and family stories will be missed, the true loss is the steadfast foundation he provided to family and friends by serving as a beacon for leadership, values, and loyalty.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Dorothy, and many other family and friends. He is survived by his wife Penny, his daughters, step-daughters, and step-son, as well as his grandchildren Brooke (Jake) Dearborn-Huston, Bailey Bodeker, Connor Bodeker, Jackson Middleton, Grace Middleton, and Cian Bodeker. Lastly, Rick’s canine companion Piper remains waiting for her dad to return home.

The family would like to thank Dr S. Halawa and Dr. R. Kettelkamp as well as the caring and supportive staff at St. Luke’s hospital, including the intensive care unit, the 4th floor cardiac center, and the Interventional Radiology team, which includes Rick’s daughter Leslie Wagener Dearborn.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Rick’s name to St. Luke’s Hospital or to the Children’s Miracle Network.

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

Clay M. Ash

Clay Marvin Ash, 98, of Vinton, Iowa, formerly of Colesburg and Edgewood, passed away on Sunday, March 1, 2020, at the Vinton Lutheran Home in Vinton.

He was born on November 27, 1921, in Wood Center, the son of Clifford and Pearl (Whitehead) Ash. He graduated from Edgewood High School and attended the University of Dubuque.

On March 16, 1942, Clay was united in marriage to Wanda Mae Rhines in Lancaster, Missouri. Three children were born to this union. Wanda passed away on October 8, 2016. The family farmed east of Edgewood. Clay was a dairy farmer for 40 years. In 2003, Clay and Wanda moved to Colesburg until 2011, when they went to the Lincolnwood Assisted Living in Edgewood. The couple moved to the Vinton Lutheran Home in 2014.

Clay was an active, lifetime member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Edgewood, including teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir. He served on the Mid-American Dairy Board, the Clayton County Conservation Board, Youth for Christ, and the Edgewood-Colesburg School Board. He was a lifetime member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge and was a past chancellor commander. Clay also helped start up the Wood Center 4-H Club.

Clay enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, dancing, and traveling as well as watching the Chicago Cubs and Bears play. He played saxophone in six different bands for nearly 10 years and loved playing baseball and working with wood. Most of all, Clay cherished spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Clay is survived by his children, Glory (Randy) Ohrt of Vinton, Quentin (Marcia) Ash of Littleton, Colorado, and Danny (Linda) Ash of Colesburg; seven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; two step-grandchildren; and five step-great-grandchildren.

Clay was preceded in death by Wanda, his wife of nearly 75 years; a grandson, Jason; his parents, Clifford and Pearl; a brother, Garlyn (Iris) Ash; and his sister, Nola Beth (Richard) LaMere.

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

William J. Schuckert

William J. “Bill” “Schuck” Schuckert, age 73, of Durango, was called home on Thursday, February 20, 2020.  To celebrate Bill’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, March 5, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:30 p.m. To honor Bill’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Friday, March 6, 2020, at St. Joseph Church, 20249 St. Joseph Drive, Rickardsville, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating.  Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in Rickardsville.

Bill was born on November 13, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Clarence and Bernice (Theis) Schuckert.

Bill honorably served his country with the U.S. Army in the National Guard from 1964 until 1970.  He was united in marriage to Sue Koetz on May 12, 1973, at St. John the Baptist Church in Peosta.  They have been blessed with 47 years and 3 children together.  Bill was no stranger to hard work as he was employed with the John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years before retiring and also buying a farm in 1992.  Bill had great respect for, and learned as much as he could about caring for the farm, from his long-time friend, Jim Schueller.  He took great pride in caring for his land and livestock, and looked forward to watching the kids show their animals at the fair every year.  He considered setting his boys up in farming as one of his greatest accomplishments.  He was a die hard John Deere man and would argue that green was the only way to go, but if it was the wrong color and ran good he was ok with it.  He loved to get the tractors out and take the family on hay rides on special occasions.  Bill also enjoyed hitting the bowling lanes in search of a 300 game and a good game of Euchre with family and friends.  In his younger days, he enjoyed going pheasant, squirrel and rabbit hunting with his dogs and riding his Harley all over the United States, even making a trip to Canada.  His family was truly his pride and joy, he was a regular at the grandkids sporting events and always looked forward to family gatherings.  He also enjoyed watching the Cubs in later years.  Bill took time to enjoy the simple things in life, such as eating his favorite cookies, pies and ice cream with jelly on it.  He was a very proud man and was one of the most gentle men you would ever meet.  His Catholic faith was very important to him and was evidenced by all in his daily life.  We are deeply saddened at losing Bill so unexpectedly, but know that he is now resting peacefully.

Those left to cherish Bill’s memory include

his loving wife,
Sue Schuckert, Durango, IA;

his children,
Greg (Becky) Schuckert, Durango, IA,
Mark (Tara) Schuckert, Durango, IA
and Lisa (Jason) Rauch, Ryan, IA;

his grandchildren,
Bella, Nick, Abby and Matt Schuckert, Grace, Ben and Beau Schuckert, and Olivia, Cole and Jacob William Rauch;

a sister-in-law,
Nancy Schuckert, Peosta, IA;

his father-in-law and mother-in-law,
Francis and Marian Koetz, Centralia, IA;

his in-laws,
Judy (Joe) Lester, Epworth, IA,
Kathy (Terry) Corbett,
Jim (Kim) Koetz
and Jack (Mary) Koetz, all of Centralia, IA;

a special nephew,
Scott Corbett;

and several nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; 2 children during early pregnancy; his brother, Robert “Bob” Schuckert; his nephew, David Schuckert; and his long time friend and farming mentor, Jim Schueller.

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

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

LaVonne J. Ferguson

LaVonne J. “Bonnie” Ferguson, age 68 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on February 28, 2020 at Sunnycrest Manor in Dubuque.  To honor Bonnie’s life, her Celebration of Life for family and friends will be held on Sunday, March 15, 2020, from 12 noon until 2:00 p.m. at Steeple Square, 101 East 15th Street in Dubuque.  A memorial service will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Reverend Dianne Christopher officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bonnie’s family.

Bonnie was born on November 11, 1951, in Dubuque, a daughter to Norman C. and Janet A. (Oakley) Gerstkamp.  She decided at an early age that she wanted to devote her life to helping others and that mission could definitely be completed as a Registered Nurse.  She started her career at Finley Hospital and closed it at Mercy Hospital, when the health issues related to her advanced Multiple Sclerosis made retirement a necessity.  Bonnie chose to build her life with James P. “Jim” Ferguson, and the two of them were united in marriage on August 2, 1975 and blessed with two children to raise and nurture.  Her devotion to her family was uncompromising and her commitment to loving them whole-heartedly was unceasing, even from her bedside. She was always happy to offer her advice and cared very deeply about the well-being of those she loved.

Bonnie loved to dance when she was still able and any opportunity to cut loose was always a welcomed one.  She also enjoyed a little quiet time in her days and her favorite activity was sitting outside reading a sci-fi or romance novel.  Bonnie also enjoyed watching the birds play on their feeders year-round, but during the Christmas season, you would surely find her eyes glued to the Hallmark Channel.  Bonnie was as kind and sweet as they come, but she wasn’t shy in letting you know if you got on her bad side; her patience enduring, her compassion endless, her wit was as quick as they come. She discovered immense satisfaction in helping others in her earlier years, only to discover in her later years, that the simple capacity to accept that same help from others was going to be essential. Her heart had more love to give than we had ever realized and the inspiration and memories she now leaves behind will continue to spill over into the legacy she was faithfully building over her 68 year journey. We find ourselves holding broken hearts today as Bonnie has been called home now, but we know that she is finally free from her earthly burdens and thankfully we’ll have another chance to hear her tender voice once again in perfect glory. Thank you Bonnie, for showing us how to live with the crosses we must bear, and may peace be yours until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bonnie include,

her loving husband,
James “Jim” Ferguson, Dubuque, Iowa;

her adored children,
Carrie (Aaron) Pozdol, Cedar Rapids, Iowa,
and Matthew (Diana) Ferguson, Dubuque, Iowa;

her grandchildren,
Ava Pozdol and Charles Pozdol;

her sister,
Norma (Sam) Sanchez, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Charles Gerstkamp in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, a LaVonne J. “Bonnie” Ferguson memorial fund has been established.

Bonnie’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sunnycrest and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the compassionate and comforting care they have provided to Bonnie, and her family.  It’s angels like you who make it possible for our broken hearts to find peace as we say farewell for now to our own angel.  May God bless all of you for your kindness and ministry in serving and helping others!

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

Patrick J. Bonz

Patrick “Pat” J. Bonz, passed away suddenly at home of natural causes on February 27th, 2020. He was 53 years young- a loving Brother, Uncle, Great Uncle, Friend, and Volunteer.

He was born on December 29th, 1966 in Dubuque, IA to Thomas and Donna Bonz. He graduated from Hempstead High School in Dubuque and earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University.

Family will greet friends for a visitation at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home at 8201 Hickman Road Urbandale, IA 50322-4307 on Thursday, March 5th from 5-8 pm. The memorial service will be held Friday, March 6th at 10am at Caldwell Parrish in Urbandale.

Pat was an enthusiastic member of the Boy Scouts of America. He earned his Eagle Scout distinction in 1985 at Troop 94 in Dubuque, IA where he later became a Scoutmaster. He was also awarded the Silver Beaver Award and the District Award of Merit at the Mid-Iowa Council in Des Moines, Iowa. Pat served as a proud member of the Marine Reserve Program. Photography was a passion for Pat, in which he took countless pictures for The Northwest Iowa Review, Americus Times-Recorder, Habitat for Humanity International, St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, Boy Scouts of America, and was the Former Manager of News and Photo at the Philmont Scout Ranch. His photos can still be seen on the Facebook page: Pat Bonz Photography. Pat proudly worked for the Habitat for Humanity ReStore in Des Moines, IA. Customer’s often thought Pat was the owner of the store because of how helpful and friendly he was to everyone. He also spent his free time building homes on volunteer trips through Habitat for Humanity to various countries around the world. His latest trip being to Nepal in November of 2019. Pat was an avid member of St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church at Drake where he performed for the choir, volunteered his photography and brought donuts and a smile on Sundays. He loved watching sports and especially took pride in his Green Bay Packers football team. One of the many great joys in his life were his nieces, nephews and great nieces.

Pat is survived by his brother Michael Bonz of Des Moines, IA, sisters Kathy (Doug) Stahr of Sherrill, IA, Lori (Frank) Bonz of Des Moines, IA and Jamie Bonz of Dubuque, IA, and sister-in-law Elizabeth Bonz of Asbury, IA. He is also survived by his nephews and niece: Scott (Julie) Bonz, Cristen (Victor) Bonz, Michael Bonz and great nieces: Hailie, Hope and Bentley Bonz.

He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Donna Bonz and niece/godchild Caitlyn Bonz all of Asbury, IA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in his name to St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, Habitat for Humanity-Des Moines, or the Boy Scouts of America. Online condolences may be left at www.caldwellparrish.com.

Nancy E. Mayberry

Nancy E. Mayberry, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 29, 2020, surrounded by her family, at Maquoketa Care Center.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, March 5, 2020, at United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. at the church.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Nancy Elizabeth Beaton was born on June 1, 1931 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Roy and Blanche (Petersen) Beaton.  She was a 1949 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  She married William “Bill” Mayberry on November 25, 1955 at the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.  

Nancy was a homemaker and believed her most important job was raising her family.   Early in her marriage she worked at Jackson State Bank and later at the Jackson County Courthouse in the Auditor’s Office. 

Nancy was an active and very faithful member of the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa where she had sung in the choir and taught Sunday school.  She was a member of the Red Hat Society and the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.  She loved watching her children and grandchildren’s sporting activities, playing cards, traveling with her husband, coffee and conversation with her many friends and sisters, shopping, and most importantly her church and her church family.  She was an avid Hawkeyes, Cyclones, and Cubs fan. 

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, William “Bill” Mayberry of Maquoketa, IA; children, Julie (Bill) Schneden of Davenport, IA, Jim (Sue) Mayberry of Maquoketa, IA, and Jan (Burt) Graham of Eldridge, IA; 10 grandchildren, Tim (Michelle) Schneden, Briane (Regan) Stone, Kaitlin (Nick) Iversen, Nick (Sara) Schneden, Kyle (Ashley) Thiede, Jake Thiede, Ben (Karen) Thiede, Sarah Mayberry, Thomas (Crystal) Mayberry, and Logan Mayberry; 19 great-grandchildren; and very special friend and caregiver, Gaye Storlie of Maquoketa, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and 3 sisters Louise Miller, Janis Luett and Evelyn Reynolds.

We loved her so much but
God saw that she was getting tired
and a cure was not to be;
So he put his arms around her and
whispered, “Come with Me”;
With tearful eyes we watched her
suffer and saw her fade away;
Although we loved her dearly,
we could not make her stay;
A golden heart stopped beating,
hard working hands rest;
God broke our hearts to prove to
us, he only takes the best!

The family would like to especially thank the staff of Hospice of Jackson County, and the nurses, aids and kitchen staff at Maquoketa Care Center for their kindness and wonderful care.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County or the United Church of Christ in Maquoketa.

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

Shirley A. Weirup

Shirley A. Weirup, 84, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, March 6, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

Shirley Ann Ehl was born on August 17, 1935 in Bellevue, Iowa, to Henry Adam and Hilda (Cornelius) Ehl.  She was a 1952 graduate of Andrew High School and then received her nurses training at the Finley School of Nursing in Dubuque.  She married Leo H. Weirup on December 11, 1955 in Andrew, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on October 10, 2002.

Shirley and Leo farmed for a couple years in Jackson County and in 1966 they moved to Arizona where she worked for Samaritan Health Services as a nurse.  They retired and moved back to Iowa in June of 2000.  She enjoyed gardening, reading, crocheting and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, David (Reene) Weirup of Patterson, CA, Mark (Lorna) Weirup of Roanoke, VA, and Mike (Nancy) Weirup of Cantonment, FL; 7 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Alvin and Arlene Weirup of Baldwin, IA, and Jim and Connie Weirup of Andrew, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter Kathy, a grandchild, a brother and a sister.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Shirley A. Weirup memorial fund has been established.

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

William R. Helmer

William R. “Bill” Helmer, 91, passed away at MercyOne Hospital on Friday, February 28, 2020 following a courageous battle with COPD.

The funeral service for Bill will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, March 3, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road; with a visitation from 10:00 AM until the time of service.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

He was born in Duluth, MN on September 17, 1929 to Eleanor (Carroll) and Charles Helmer. He is proceeded in death by his twin sister, Patricia Schlinsky, of Stevens Point, WI; sisters, Mary Helmer and Clair Siversen of Darien, CN; and two brothers, Charles of Dallas, TX and Joseph of Chicago, IL. He also leaves his wife, Rita Seymour, of 53 years; nieces and nephews, Rolf and Eric Swensen of Darien of CN, Joe (Mary) of Chicago, Janice Helmer of Chicago, and Patricia (Hugh) Scherrer of Atlanta, GA.

He lived for many years in the Mt. Prospect/Prospect Heights, IL area. Bill was a member of the Federation of Musicians of Chicago, Local 10-208 for over 50 years, playing his trumpet in bands for many prominent people and shows. He played at the Hilton Hotel Downtown Chicago, for the ice shows until it closed. As he watched the big bands slowly going out of style, he went back to school part-time and received an accounting degree. He worked for almost 30 years for a manufacturing firm Door-O-Matic of Republic Industries achieving the rank of Vice President and Treasurer of the corporation. He loved both his jobs, accounting all day and playing his horn at night and on weekends. At one time they were the guest band for Holland America Cruise Line. A full band and most of their wives. Bill and Rita were hooked on cruises after that. They managed to go on 5 cruises, plus many other trips. Alaska being his favorite.

To avoid being drafted he enlisted in the Army Air Force. He spent 4 years as a radio operator stationed in Germany for most of the time.

They moved back to Dubuque these past 2 years to be closer to family. Severe arthritis left him in great pain and asthma/COPD played a major role in his life. Too many years in smoke filled rooms took a toll of his health. He also leaves many nieces and nephews in the Dubuque area.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and emergency staff at MercyOne for their loving kindness and care.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choice.

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