Obituaries Archive

Dr. Leo M. Biehl

Dr. Leo M. Biehl, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, died peacefully surrounded by his children on Wednesday, February 26, 2020 at ManorCare in Dubuque.

A funeral mass will be held at 9 A.M. on Monday, March 2nd at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 1st from 3 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, with military honors.

Leo Michael Biehl was born on November 25, 1930 in Dubuque, Iowa to Nicholas and Apolonia (Thillman) Biehl.  He received his D.D.S. degree from St. Louis University in 1955.

Leo married Lois A. Knapp on July 21, 1955 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.  He served as a captain in the Air Force in Tokyo, Japan and Lincoln, Nebraska.  The family then settled in Maquoketa, where Dr. Biehl practiced dentistry for 46 years.  He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Leo had a passion for reading and gardening.  He spent countless hours behind the Dairy Queen cultivating his tomatoes.  He enjoyed traveling, even in a station wagon packed with kids.  He loved sports and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan.

Doc was known for his kind and compassionate spirit.  Above all, Leo valued his family and friendships.  He was a loving husband, devoted father and loyal friend.  He was a kind man to all.

Leo is survived by his children, Beverly (Craig) Van Amburg, Christi (John) Burns, Drs. Robert (Catherine) Biehl, Bruce Biehl, Mary (Forrest) Fromm, David Biehl, and Douglas Biehl; 12 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; sister Yvonne (James) Schreiner; sister-in-law Elizabeth Biehl; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Richard and Elizabeth Knapp; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife Lois, in 2015, and infant daughter Linda; brother William Biehl; sister Grace Connell; and daughter-in-law Cheryl Biehl.

A Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Theresa M. Sawvell

Theresa M. Sawvell, age 61, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on February 25, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Theresa’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 20, 2020 at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road in Dubuque, beginning at 5 p.m.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Theresa’s family.

Theresa was born on December 15, 1958, in Joliet, Illinois, a daughter to Ken and Audrey (McLaughlin) Elliott.  She was lovingly raised by them, and her step-father, Bob Krause, all while being surrounded by her brothers and sisters.  Theresa was a fun-loving and caring woman who only strived to make the most out of this life.  Over the years, she has used her time and talents in many ventures; including as a school bus driver for the Western Dubuque Community School District, as an owner and operator of the Copper Kettle and Fisherman’s Wharf, along with managing the housekeeping department at the Holiday Inn.

She had married Allen Sawvell on March 3, 2003, in Dubuque, and they were blessed with 18 years together.  Whether they were spending the weekend around the campfire, wandering about the woods in search of their next geode, or working in the flower gardens in the yard, life was good when Theresa was outdoors enjoying the splendor of God’s creation.  Theresa had even found the time to become an ordained minister in recent years and was only waiting patiently for the ability to implement her new skills when the opportunity would present itself.  Ultimately though, Theresa was a beacon of love for all living things for people to see.  Her love for her dogs was only outweighed by her love for family.  Her children and grandchildren were everything to her and any time she was able to spend with them was always considered to be time well spent.  We will miss Theresa with all of our hearts, but we accept that her recent health struggles were going to require a little more fighting, and Theresa would rather find eternal peace after years of fighting already.  We will hold every memory deeply and dearly until we see her again and may we find moments of simple healing as we walk through the days ahead.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Theresa include,

her loving husband of 18 years,
Allen Sawvell, Dubuque, Iowa;

her 6 adored children,
John (Wanda) Lamey, Bernard, Iowa,
Joshua (Ashley) Lamey, Graf, Iowa,
Jolene (Jesse) Spahn, East Dubuque, Illinois,
Jedediah (Ashlee Eaves) Lamey, Bernard, Iowa,
Jordan (Brittany Walenczyk) Lamey, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Jeremiah (Cheyanne Seymour) Lamey, Bernard, Iowa;

her 10 grandchildren,
Keagan Lamey, Breanna Lamey, Kalynn Lamey, Olivia Lamey, McKinley Spahn, Merritt Spahn, Jase Eaves, Jagger Lamey, Riley Lamey and Lilli Trenkamp;

her siblings,
Steven (Linda) Connors, Morris, Illinois,
Ken Elliott, Dubuque, Iowa,
Thelma (Ray) Breitsprecker, Dubuque, Iowa,
Toni (Joe) Heitman, Guttenberg, Iowa,
Doug (Barb) Krause, Waverly, Iowa,
Jennifer (Brad) Heath, Cedar Falls, Iowa;

her sister-in-law,
Linda Elliott, Lake Charles, Louisiana;

her step-father,
Bob Krause, New Hampton, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Theresa was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Tracy Elliott; and her brother, Bob Elliott.

Theresa’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque, along with all of our family and friends who have also provided an abundance of love and support during these very difficult days.  We couldn’t have made it through without you and Theresa’s heart felt peace at her passing because of your compassion and kindness.  Thank you!

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

Edna D. Hans

Edna D. Hans, 101, of Davenport, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2020, at Ridgecrest Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Davenport, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, March 2, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:30 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Edna Dorothy Durkop was born on October 17, 1918 in Clinton County, Iowa, to Henry and Mary (Evers) Durkop. She married Carl Hans on September 15, 1940 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 3, 1996.

Edna was a homemaker and had farmed with her husband in the rural Maquoketa area for 33 years, retiring to Maquoketa. She moved to the Quad Cities in 2008.

Edna was a former member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. She enjoyed fishing, dancing, playing cards, puzzles, collecting ceramic dolls, and making crafts and wreaths.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Karen (John) Otto of Davenport, IA, and Owen (Patty) Hans of Donahue, IA; 5 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, 4 sisters Velda Potter, Florence Baresel, Beulah Prusia and Arvena Edwards, a son Allen Lee Hans and a great-grandson Tyler Allen.

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

Donna K. Brandel

Donna Kay Brandel, 72, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, February 19, 2020, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM Saturday, March 14, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Donna will be 11:00 AM Saturday, March 14, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection.  Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Donna was born February 25, 1947, in Dubuque, the daughter of Dale and Bernita Kunnen Massey.

Donna retired from Auto-Owners Insurance; supervising personal insurance lines.

She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1965.

She enjoyed sewing, pottery, and anything with the grandkids.  She had a very active life with friends over the past 30 years in Arizona.

Survivors include three sons, Todd (Angela) Brandel of Hutchinson, MN, Brian Brandel of Dubuque, Paul (Lenaye) Brandel of Huntley, IL, four granddaughters, Emelia Brandel, Abigail Brandel, Haddie Brandel, and Millie Brandel; one grandson, Louis Brandel; one sister, Barb Vanblarcom of Dubuque, two brother-in-laws, Joe Pfohl of Dubuque, and Jim Rollinger of Cascade; one sister-in-law, Mary Meyer (Massey) of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Home Instead Senior Care, and Eagle Point Place

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is caring for Donna and her arrangements.

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John L. Obriecht

John L. Obriecht, 78, of rural Hazel Green, WI, passed away on Sunday, February 23, 2020 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center with his wife, Joy, at his side.

A celebration of life will be from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 1, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with a memorial service to be held at 3:30 p.m. the same day.

John was born on September 19, 1941 in Brookfield, WI, the son of Arthur and Florence (Barrington) Obriecht.  He was a 1960 graduate of Brookfield High School.

He married Anne Dondlinger and to this union two children were born, Justin and Andrew. They later divorced. He was then united in marriage to Joy Davis in 2004.

John enjoyed playing cribbage, visiting with friends at the Eagle Point Barge, vacationing at the family property on the Flambeau River, and traveling with his wife. He was famous for his storytelling abilities about all of his adventures.

John formerly worked for Railton, delivering groceries to resorts in the north woods of Wisconsin, as a semi-truck driver for various trucking companies and was a member of the Milwaukee Teamster’s Union. He was the owner of USA Fireworks with his wife for several years.

John is survived by his wife Joy; two sons, Justin (Tara) and their children, Clayton, Silas, and Gospel Obriecht of Granada Hills, CA and Andrew Obriecht of Montello, WI; step-children, Amy (DJ) Bean and their children, Allison and Adam of Maquoketa, IA, Laura (Scott) Perry and their son Parker of East Dubuque, IL; John’s good friend, Bob Walther of Florence, WI and his golden retriever, Jack.

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

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

Sharon (Woodward) McAllister

Sharon (Woodward) McAllister, 73, of Monmouth, Iowa passed away Sunday February 23, 2020 at home with her loving husband by her side and surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral Services will be held at Hickory Grove Cemetery where she can be joined with friends and family for a graveside memorial on Sunday March 1st, 2020 at 1pm.

Sharon was born on January 22, 1947 in Des Moines, IA. She was the daughter of Clarence and Mahala “Tillie” (Harry) (Woodward) Dean. She married Terry McAllister on July 22, 1989 in Iron Hill, IA at their home.

Sharon spent most of her life as a factory worker. Her last factory jobs included John Deere and Eagle Window and Door in Dubuque, IA before finishing her career at Casey’s General Store in Maquoketa, IA.

Sharon loved the outdoors, camping, swimming, dancing, and hunting morels. She loved horses, but most of all she loved her dog Alice and her farm cats. She was a great friend to everyone, and she always made you welcome in her home. She adored her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids; they were her greatest treasures.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Terry McAllister, four children, Kathy, (Brad) Thillmony of Apache Junction, AZ, Karla (John) Beckley of LaMotte, IA, Karen (Tim) Waller of LaMotte, IA and Kevin (Heather) Ostrander of Delaware, IA, two brothers, Bill (Deb) Dean of Durango, IA, Bob (Liz) Dean of Edgewood, IA, 12 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

The family would like to thank Jackson County Hospice for all their help and support.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family.

Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family and online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Charles P. Nelson

Charles P. Nelson, 90, Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Sunday evening, February 23, 2020, at his home surrounded by his family.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, February 29, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, February 28, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Charles Peter Nelson was born on February 11, 1930 in Delmar, Iowa, to Henry and Mary (Shollenberger) Nelson. He grew up and lived his entire life in the Delmar area. He was a 1947 graduate of Delmar High School. He married Yuvonne M. Sutton on January 15, 1967 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Chris and Jeff.

Charles was a lifelong farmer who farmed the family century farm for many years. He also did contract painting with his dad and later for himself by the name of CN Painting.

Charles was a member of the Delmar United Methodist Church, Delmar Lions Club and had previously served as a Delwood Community School District School Board member. He had enjoyed coaching youth baseball in his younger years.

Additionally, he enjoyed politics, cooking, and visiting with friends and family. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. Nothing was more important to him than spending time with family and being a grandpa.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Chris (Jennifer) Nelson of Delmar, IA, and Jeff (and friend Beth) Nelson of Bettendorf, IA; a brother Gerald “Jerry” (Barb) Nelson of Delmar, IA; a sister, Evelyn Thiede of Davenport, IA; 8 grandchildren, Ali (Brad) Kilburg of Elwood, IA, Jake Nelson of Delmar, IA, Elizabeth Nelson of Delmar, IA, Paige Nelson of Iowa City, IA, Shea Nelson of Eldridge, IA, Brittany (Chris) Belles of Delmar, IA, Zachary Karr of DeWitt, IA, and Brandon Karr of Delmar, IA; and 4 great-grandchildren, Lily, Oliver, Eldin and KayLynn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Yuvonne on October 24, 1998, and sisters Margie Nelson and Lois Welch, brothers-in-law Vince Thiede and Don Welch.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Charles P. Nelson memorial fund has been established.

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

Robert P. Brueckner

Robert P. Brueckner, 82, of Dyersville passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, 2020, at his residence at the Ellen Kennedy Living Center in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137.

Bob was born March 17, 1937, at the family home in Dyersville, IA, to George and Helen (Koelker) Brueckner. He graduated from Calmar High School, and entered the Air Force in October of 1955. He was an Airman, 2nd. Class, in the Radio Signal Corps, and played trumpet in the Air Force Band. After leaving the military, he attended the University of Iowa. He married Frances Dilley on August 12, 1961, in Marengo, IA (she preceded him in death in 1991).

Bob was a member of the American Legion, and the Dyersville Golf & Country Club. He enjoyed golf, bowling, and was a World War II history buff. He loved cheering on his beloved Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs. Bob enjoyed working on his football pool entries every week, and participating in trivia games, especially his daily watching of Jeopardy.

He is survived by his children: Gretchen (Tye) Starr of Holland, MI, and Rob (Leslie) Brueckner of Johnston; grandchildren: Lauren, Ryan and Ava Brueckner of Johnston; Rachael Starr of Atlanta, GA; brother, William (Linda) Brueckner of Phoenix, AZ; in-laws: Harold (Barbara) Dilley of Greenville, SC, and David (Bettie) Dilley of Eden, NC.

Along with Frances, Bob was also preceded in death by his parents, and parents-in-law, Dr. Harold and Marion Dilley.

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

Anna A. (Oberfoell) Hess

Anna A. (Oberfoell) Hess, age 83, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:21 a.m. on Sunday, February 23, 2020, at home. Anna was preceded in death by her loving husband Joseph, who passed away on February 27, 2019. To celebrate Anna’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until time of services at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 29, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue. To honor Anna’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following visitation at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 29, 2020, at Holy Trinity Church, with Rev. Mark Kwenin officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Anna was born on February 12, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Raymond L. Oberfoell and Anna M. (Besler) Oberfoell. Anna grew up on a farm located between Epworth and Bankston, where she learned early in her life the value of an honest day’s work. Anna met her sweetheart, Joseph Hess, who was literally the “boy next door” on the adjacent farm. They courted and would be married on May 29, 1956, in Peosta, Iowa, eventually moving to Dubuque, where they bought a home and started their family. Anna was a homemaker and loving mother. Anna spent much of her time with her loving husband at their northern retreat on Mitten Lake near Remer, Minnesota. Anna looked forward to spending time with her kids and grandkids, as well as extended family members and friends and was always the first one to whip up a tasty meal. She loved all card games, but especially enjoyed playing Euchre with family and friends. She was a regular player with the Thursday Holy Trinity Card Club, and she and Joe were well known as the ones to beat. She was also very devoted to her Catholic faith, and was a long-time member of Holy Trinity Church, where she helped create the beautiful crafts for the fall festival for over 20 years. Our hearts are truly broken today at the loss of such a wonderful mom and grandmother, but we are thankful for all of the wonderful memories that we have made throughout the years and will treasure forever.

Those left to cherish Anna’s memory include

2 of her children,
Diana (Steve) Rokusek, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph (Bonnie) Hess, Inver Grove Heights, MN;

5 of her grandchildren,
Matthew, Corianna, Johnathan, Kelsey and Stephanie Hess;

and a sister,
Mildred (Kim) Gordinier.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Joe Hess; her son, Richard Lee Hess; a grandson, Joseph Richard Hess; her brothers; Sylvester, Charlie, Eldon, Donny, Kenny; and her sisters, Mae and Kay.

Anna’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the emergency personnel, neighbors, and friends who provided support and compassion.

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

Rosemary F. McGovern

Rosemary F. McGovern, age 94, passed away Monday, February 17, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 28, at 5:30pm at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen funeral home, located at 3860 Asbury Road in Dubuque, Iowa. The funeral will take place February 29 at 10:00am at Mount Calvary Cemetery Chapel, located at 1111 Davis Street in Dubuque, Iowa.

Rosemary was born March 2, 1925, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Elmer and Marie (Zugenbuehler) Friedell. Rosemary was a graduate of Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA. She married John J. McGovern on May 30, 1953.

Rosemary was an avid volunteer, logging more than 2,500 hours at Mercy Hospital in Toledo, Ohio, and participating in the Rainbow Division Veteran’s auxiliary, among other charitable work. In her spare time, she enjoyed bowling, bridge, crossword puzzles, and knitting. She donated many, many lovingly hand-knitted infant and child sweaters and booties to various charities. In recent years, Rosemary was the Mardi Gras queen for the Health and Wellness building at St. James Place – her residence – and was a staff favorite.

Rosemary is survived by her daughters, Pat (Jim) Moroney, Barbara (Ted) Moor, Lisa (Ron Marek) McGovern, and Julie (Steve) Stegeman; son, Jack (Jennifer) McGovern; grandchildren, James (Joan), Mark, and Mary Rose Moroney; Kelly, Kristen, Sarah, and Rachel Moor; Devin Burns; Emma, Jesse, Laurel, and Silas McGovern; Josh and Abby Marek; and Harper Stegeman; and great-grandchildren Connor and Lila Moroney. She is also survived by her sisters Anita Uebelhart and Darlene Pfiffner, and brother Rev. Ronald Friedell.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband John McGovern, daughter Teresa (Brian) Burns, son Joseph McGovern, sister Lois Burds, and brother Rev. John Friedell.

The family suggests contributions in Rosemary’s memory be made to St. Vincent de Paul, Briar Cliff University, or Loras College.

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

Donna M. Breiner

Donna M. Breiner, age 91 of Dubuque, Iowa completed her earthly journey suddenly on February 18, 2020, at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque.  To celebrate Donna’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2020, at 12:00 p.m. at Steeple Square, 101 East 15^th Street, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001 with Pastor Jack Redmond officiating.  Family and friends of Donna’s may gather to visit prior to the service from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Steeple Square.  Burial will be in the Center Grove Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Donna’s family.

Donna was born on September 4, 1928, in Dubuque, a daughter to Charles I. and Anna E. (Leisch) Kenniker.  She grew up surrounded by family and learned at a very early age the value of caring for others.  The doctors told her to never expect to have children, but after bringing 4 of them into the world, Donna soon realized her mission was to watch over those who couldn’t do so for themselves.  In her early years, she helped care for her younger siblings and intentionally used the time they spent in the orphanage as a stepping-stone which would help solidify her resolve.  She met her adoring husband, Norm Breiner, Sr., on a blind date and the two went on to be blessed with 70 years together, 4 children and many foster children along the way.  Donna’s love for children, especially those who found themselves in difficult circumstances due to no fault of their own, was where she found her greatest drive and desire in life.  Her love was endless and her patience enduring; unless an injustice was at hand.  This continually quiet and loving “half-pint” would morph into a 5-foot stick of dynamite when required.  She reveled in crossing the street for her latest Union dispute, or confronting anyone who believed they could abuse their authority.  Donna saw the world through the eyes of fairness and if the world wasn’t going to present it willingly, she was going to subdue the participants and resolve the issues herself.

Donna and Norm worked diligently and very hard to create a wonderful life for their family to enjoy.  Making the tough choices and living outwardly, as their words inwardly were reflected, brought stability and longevity to the lessons they taught.  She loved having her home full of family, and the holidays were no exception.  The gatherings were all day events and the adults and children alike now possess an abundance of beautiful memories because of them.  Cash was king in the Breiner household (no creditors or credit cards would ever be welcome here) and any shopping trip into town with them was always wrought with potential for an uncomfortable excursion.  Donna just couldn’t understand why after accidentally dropping a huge roll of cash in the middle of the mall, it was time to go.  She simply couldn’t accept that  the world she had worked so hard to make possible for herself and others, just wasn’t the same world that others would choose to walk in.  In retirement, Norm and Donna were able to spend 22 years wintering in McAllen, Texas.  Making many friends along the way and reluctantly resisting when they gradually couldn’t continue on with the tradition due to aging health concerns.

Donna enjoyed playing cards (wearing out countless decks over the years), watching court tv and listening to her old-time radio programs at night, but her greatest joy and talent was in her story telling.  If you spent any time at all with her, you would inevitably hear the same ones again and again (maybe even a 100 times if you were fortunate enough to be that close with her).  Her rags to riches stories, the importance and benefits of having small and quick hands while working as a young girl on the grenade line at the Savanna Army Depot during the war, continually fighting with the county until they bent to her will, and all the special people she had to work with at Deere’s were among her favorites in the regular rotation.  But, growing up in the bootlegging days always pulled up the anchor position with close family and friends.  A smile and sincere belly laugh was always on the horizon when she pulled out the one about the police knocking on the front door to warn everyone in the neighborhood that they heard Al Capone was coming to town, when unbeknownst to them, he and the boys had arrived hours earlier and were already sitting comfortably in the back parlor relaxing and visiting with the family.

Donna not only raised her own children and foster kids, but she has also helped raise all of her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.  Watching them get older was bittersweet, but thankfully there was always another candidate in the pipeline ready for their turn to be loved, nurtured and adored by the most amazing grandmother you could ever hope to spend your days with.  Children loved her almost as much as she loved spending time with them (even if a weekly Bingo outing was on the list for that evening).  It’s difficult to imagine a world that is now missing this much love for the innocent, but we know that after losing her boys, and her husband last summer, Donna’s only goal was to be next to them again as soon as possible.  After 3 near death incidents, all she prayed for was that the 4^th would actually get her home where she belonged.  Our hearts break at the mere thought of not hearing another story from the past, but we also find peace in knowing that all of the struggles this mortal world has presented, and the desire to live in a world which simply doesn’t exist anymore, have all ceased to be a cause for distress any longer, and now peace eternal awaits them all.  Thank you, Donna, for your effortless ability to show everyone around you just how to treat others and may your collection of new stories be in abundance when we see you again.  God bless you and all of our love is forever yours!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Donna include,

her 2 adored daughters,
Pamela “Pam” (Frank) Schumacher, Cape Coral, Florida,
and Candace “Candy” (Bill) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa;

her 10 grandchildren,
Jason (Tricia) Schumacher, Dubuque, Iowa,
Eric (Polly) Schumacher, New Virginia, Iowa,
Brian Schumacher, Des Moines, Iowa,
Sarah Schumacher, Indianola, Iowa,
Wil (Ashley) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Tiffiny Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Darcy Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Matt (Mandy Wallace) Kelly, Cedar Falls, Iowa,
Melody (Bobby) Coyle, Epworth, Iowa,
and Travis (Nikki Maiers) Breiner, Guttenberg, Iowa;

her 17 great-grandchildren,
Dylan (Kelsey) Schumacher, Abigail Schumacher, Jacob Schumacher, Kyla Schumacher, Ian Schumacher, Skyelynn Schumacher, Addison Schumacher, Everly Schumacher, Parker Wallis, Vanessa Kelly, Shaylynn Kelly, Owen Kelly, Mallory Siegert, Jayden Siegert, Carson Siegert, Kennedy Coyle and Devin Coyle;

her 5 great-great-grandchildren,
Lydia Kelly, Liam Kelly, Echo Bown, Ellie Bown and Enzo Schumacher;

her sister,
Nancy (Bob) Fulsang, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of 70 years, Norman “Norm” Breiner, Sr.; her sons, Norm “Butch” Briener, Jr. and Gary Breiner; and her brothers, Charles Kenniker, Jr., Guy Kenniker, Kenny Kenniker and Kay Kenniker.

Donna’s family would like to thank Dr. Cynthia Konz, along with the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital Emergency Department for all of their professional and compassionate care and support.

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

Virginia L. Uthe

Virginia L. Uthe, age 84, of Johnson Creek, WI, and formerly of Dubuque, died peacefully on Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at Sunset Ridge Assisted Living, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Virginia’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, February 29, 2020, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road. To honor Virginia’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Thomas L. Heathershaw officiating. Private burial services will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Virginia was born on December 3, 1935, in Dubuque, daughter of Charles C. and Isabel J. (Pauly) Earle.

First and foremost, Virginia was a loving mother to her 4 children, Janet Uthe of Middleton, WI; Mark (Deb) Uthe of Manchester, IA; Diane (Kurt) Trimborn of Johnson Creek, WI; and Linda (Kevin) Miller of Center Point, IA.  During her free time, Virginia enjoyed reading, playing cards, working crossword and jigsaw puzzles, sewing and crocheting.  Her numerous handmade creations will be forever cherished by her family.

Besides her 4 children, Virginia is survived by the following people who loved her; her 14 grandchildren: Jennifer Uthe, Patrick (Lindsay) Kramer, Steve (Lauren) Trimborn, Amanda (Brennan) Melloy, Molly Kramer, Charlie Uthe, McKenna Miller, Garrett Trimborn, Reece Miller, Nickolas Uthe and Kaitlyn Uthe.  Her 5 great-grandchildren: Braelyn, Kinley and Lydia Henning, Hadley Melloy and Austin Kramer.  Virginia was excited to learn about another great-grandchild due in August.  Her brother and sister-in-law, Roger and Karen Earle and her sister-in-law, Rosemary Uthe, all of Dubuque.  And many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Virginia was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Frederick T. Uthe; her parents; 2 brothers, Charles and James; a sister, Mary Jane; her maternal and paternal grandparents; 2 sisters-in-law; a brother-in-law; and several aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you the staff at Sunset Ridge Assisted Living for their unwavering care and friendship this past year to Virginia and her family.  They would also like the nurses and staff at Rainbow Hospice of Johnson Creek to know how grateful they are for the care and comfort that they gave Virginia and her family these last few weeks.

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

Ernest W. Thoma

Ernest W. Thoma, 86, of Saint Donatus, Iowa passed away Tuesday February 18, 2020 at MercyOne in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at Saint Donatus Catholic Church in Saint Donatus, Iowa with Fr. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Monday, February 24, 2020 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, where a parish wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 9:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church until time of mass.

Ernest was born on January 18, 1934 in Dubuque Iowa the son of Joseph and Frances (Meisenburg) Thoma. He farmed and lived his whole life in Saint Donatus. He married Alice M. Kerstein on February 27, 1960 at Saint Mary Catholic Church in East Dubuque, IL, and together they shared 54 years together until her passing on July 4, 2014.

Ernest’s life revolved around his passion for farming and his family. He farmed with the help of his wife and family. His farm was a complete operation with dairy cows, beef cattle, hogs and other various animals along with raising the crops to keep them fed. He instilled in his family a great work ethic and family values that continues today. He loved to be around children, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren,  he would proudly share with them the farm history and tell stories about farming. All who knew Ernest will sadly miss him.

Ernest is survived by his five daughters, Wanda Thoma, Nancy Merfeld, Karen Thoma, Rebecca (Barry) Cox and Ellen Pfohl; three sons John (Kelly) Thoma, Earl (Jacki Schilling) Thoma and Scott (Christine Dobelmann) Thoma; 25 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren with 2 more expected soon; his two sisters Bernice Pottebaum and Patricia Klaas; three brothers Donald (Bertha) Thoma, Francis (Mary) Thoma and Richard Thoma; his sister-in-law Betsy Thoma, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Frances; his wife Alice; a son Ernest Thoma Jr.; five brothers William, Arnold, Joseph, Victor, and Larry; one sister, Marie Barth; two brothers-in law Alfred Barth, Louis Pottebaum and Edwin Klaas; four sisters in-law Viola, Phyllis, Edna, and Ethel Thoma.

In lieu of flowers an Ernest Thoma memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of MercyOne especially Beth and Brianna for all the care they gave to Ernest.

Betty J. Kunz

Betty J. (Bruhn) Kunz, age 106, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:43 a.m., on Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center.  To celebrate Betty’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor Betty’s life, funeral services will be held immediately following the visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Betty was born on December 22, 1913, in Mahaska County, Iowa, adopted daughter of 2 sisters, Emma and Minnie Bruhn.

Betty lived in Dubuque from the time she was very young.  She was adopted by 2 sisters who owned several rental properties, which Betty began helping to care for at a young age and continued caring for until recent months.  Betty was united in marriage to George W. Kunz on May 28, 1949, in Marion, Missouri.  They were blessed with 22 years together and an adored daughter, before he was sadly called home ahead of her in May of 1971.  Betty was a staple all over the downtown area, making her rounds and stopping at all of her favorite stores.  She enjoyed collecting knick-knacks and had a weekly dusting routine, that often couldn’t wait until someone got there to help her.  Betty was an active person her whole life, continuing to do her own yard work until the tender young age of 102.  She always had something to do.  She also enjoyed going out to eat, with Bishop’s being one of her favorite restaurants, as well as the buffet at the casino.  When Betty did take some time to stop and relax she enjoyed watching diy and survivalist shows and anything that had to do with the Alaskan Frontier.  She was also a die hard republican and was not afraid to make her opinion on the issues known.  We are grateful for the 106 years that Betty has graced this earth, and can only imagine all the changes she has seen throughout those years.  Betty we will miss you and love you forever.

Those left to cherish Betty’s memory include

her grandchildren,
Clayton (Sue) George, Anamosa, IA,
Bruce (Sherry) George, Minnesota,
Steve George, Dubuque, IA,
Chris George, Dubuque, IA
and Renee White, Florida;

her great-grandchildren,
Emilia, Melody, Ruby, Sophia, Savannah, Shane, Rachel, Shannon, Dillon and Ariel;

and several great great-grandchildren.

Betty was preceded in death by her adopted parents; her husband, George Kunz; a daughter, Georgia Mae (Edwin) George.

Betty’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Stonehill, especially Sarah and Tina, and to Beth, Connie and Marni from Sunnycrest, for all of the wonderful care they have provided to Betty these past months.

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

Robert M. Loeffelholz

Robert M. “Bob” Loeffelholz, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2020, at ManorCare in Dubuque.

A Memorial Service will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 29, 2020, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City, Wisconsin, with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in Saint Rose of Lima Cemetery in Cuba City. Family and friends may call from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home before the service.

Bob was born on May 21, 1940, the son of John and Colette (Staver) Loeffelholz. He graduated from Cuba City High School in 1958. He entered the Army during the Vietnam Era as an electronic spy in Germany. After four years in service, he worked downtown Dubuque as a technician fixing typewriters, cash registers, and more. After retirement, he continued his passion of repairing machines and began a small business out of his home. Bob enjoyed competing in pool tournaments and sharing his musical talent on his keyboard with his kids and grandkids. He was a very social and humorous person. He enjoyed spending his free time with his friends at the casino and watching the dog races. He also loved taking pictures of his friends and family and creating photo albums to share and reminisce. Bob will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his children, Lisa Loeffelholz and Brian Loeffelholz, both of Shullsburg, WI; his sisters, Joan Wright, Cuba City, WI, Susan (Paul) Droessler, Stoughton, WI, and Lynn (Ron) Deiter, Ames, IA; his brother, Jim (Pat) Loeffelholz, Cuba City, WI; a sister-in-law, Betty Loeffelholz, Cuba City, WI; a brother-in-law, Bill Wetter, Deforest, WI; his grandchildren, Shawna (Andrew) Skog, Darlington, WI, Jena Foulker, Appleton, WI, Jason Lietzinger and Kaleb Leitzinger, both of Shullsburg, WI; and his great-grandchildren, Vincent and Tessa Skog, Darlington, WI.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Becky Wetter and Debbie Loeffelholz; and two brothers, John Loeffelholz Jr. and Donald “Beanie” Loeffelholz.

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