Obituaries Archive

JoAnn M. Behnke

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

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

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

Those left to cherish JoAnn’s memory include

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mary Ellen Camp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marjorie R. (DeCook) Hipschen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Linda W. Osterkamp

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

James D. Metcalf

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

John J. Bruno

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peter K. Nelson

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

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

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

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

John E. Tillman

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

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

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

Those left to cherish John’s memory include

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

his 10 grandchildren;

his 25 great-grandchildren;

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

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

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

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

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

Eula J. Goedert

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ethel V. Butlett

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tracy L. Less

Tracy L. Less, age 51 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on May 19, 2020, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. To honor Tracy’s life, a private family service is being held, with a Celebration of Life to be scheduled at a later date. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tracy’s family.

Tracy was born on June 5, 1968, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Thomas “Tom” and Linda (Lenz) Buelow. She grew up loving life and striving to discover her God given purpose for making this world a better place. After receiving her Marketing degree from University of Northern Iowa, Tracy ventured off to New Hampshire to spend some time as a nanny. She enjoyed the time nurturing others’ children, but eventually decided it was time to head back home to Dubuque. She worked at Dubuque Bank and Trust for a few years. She then met her soul-mate, Luke Less, and the two were united in marriage on June 3, 1995. Three daughters were soon entrusted into their adoring arms and her mission in life was now complete. Tracy’s whole heart and soul went into raising her children; she would surely spread her light generously on the rest of the world around her, but nothing could ever compare to her love and admiration for her girls.

Tracy was a stay-at-home Mom at heart, but when the girls were older, she decided to return to waitressing, which she first practiced during college. Over several years, Tracy found her way to serve and cater at local restaurants. Most recently, Tracy worked as the Director of Scheduling and Event Planning at the University of Dubuque, where her smile and love of all people was shared most. Working as an events director, Tracy would frequently describe her time spent at UD as her dream occupation. This is because she had the rare gift to deeply connect with her co-workers, clients, and all that she met.

Tracy also loved vacationing with her family and any time soaking up the sun in the Caribbean was considered a successful rest from her labors. Tracy was quick to express her gratitude and love to others. She loved her life. She loved her friends. She loved her family. She was selfless, compassionate and made everyone she talked to feel special. She is a beautiful soul, and a true light.

Anyone who knew Tracy, knows what an amazing example she strived to be. Fighting cancer for 17 years, was only the beginning of her inclination to bring salt and light into the world. Her Christian faith never wavered, and while always carrying her own crosses through each day, she continually found the time to stop and help another soul who simply needed a little heart to heart counseling. Tracy’s impact can easily be seen as a ripple of genuine compassion for her fellow man throughout our entire community. She has left her beloved family a legacy of unconditional love, and a never-ending web of friends, family, and support. Our hearts break today at the mere thought of losing such a rare gem in this life, but we know and trust that she is now residing in her heavenly estate waiting patiently to cast a few crowns of her own at her Lord and Saviors feet. Thank you, Tracy, for all that you’ve done while you were with us and may the peace you’ve so faithfully earned be yours until we see you again. God Speed Thy Good and Faithful Servant…God Speed!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tracy include,

her loving husband of 25 years,
Luke Less, Asbury, Iowa;

her 3 beautiful daughters,
Emily Less, Dubuque, Iowa,
Rachel Less, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Courtney Less, Dubuque, Iowa,

her parents,
Thomas “Tom” (Linda) Buelow, Dubuque, Iowa;

her brother,
Todd (Victoria) Buelow, Dubuque, Iowa;

her parents-in-law,
David (Susan) Less, Dubuque, Iowa,

her brothers-in-law,
Mark (Jennifer) Less, Dubuque, Iowa,
William “Bill” Less, Dubuque, Iowa,
Ryan (Marilyn Bartles) Less, Davenport, Iowa,
Aaron Less, Charlotte, North Carolina,
and Justin (Dustin Berntsen) Less, Burnsville, Minnesota;

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

Tracy was preceded in death by her grandparents, and her sister-in-law, Amy Less.

Tracy’s family would like to thank Dr. Hermann, along with his nurses and staff for all of their professional care and support over the years. Tracy’s courageous battle with cancer was never an easy one, but the wind you kept filling her sails with made the journey a bearable one. Thank you and God bless you all!

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be sent directly to Tracy’s family at 15807 Woodmoor Drive, Asbury, Iowa, 52002, along with the opportunity to share online condolences and memories at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Mary J. Long

Mary Jill Long, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2020, at Dubuque Specialty Care in Dubuque, Iowa, from complications of COVID-19.

A graveside service and burial with a celebration of life luncheon will be held at a later date in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.  Cremation has taken place.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Mary Jill Sandleback was born on July 30, 1940 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin to Edward L. and Helene Rose (Pohlman) Sandleback.  She was a graduate of Prairie du Chien High School.  She married Richard Eugene Long on January 3, 1959 in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin.

Jill had first worked for Savanna State Bank as the head cashier from 1969 to 1979.  She then worked for Dubuque Medical Associates as a transcriptionist from 1981 to 2002.  She worked as a hostess for Cracker Barrel in The Villages, Florida following retirement from 2003 to 2011.

Jill loved music and dancing of any kind!  She also enjoyed traveling, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Richard E. Long of Dubuque, IA; a son and daughter-in-law, Russ and Jane Long of Maquoketa, IA; a daughter-in-law, Vicki Long of Monticello, IA; 3 grandchildren, Andrew Long of Maquoketa, IA, Lucas (Courtney Westphal) Long of Marion, IA, and Tara (Mitch) Miller of Monticello, IA; a great-grandchild, Braelynn Miller; and a sister, Kathy (Pat) Cornford of Stillman Valley, IL.  She was preceded in death by her parents, a son Scott Long, and brothers Todd and David Sandleback.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials are preferred and may be sent to Richard E. Long, 1332 W. 5th Street, Dubuque, IA  52001.

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

Ronald M. Welp

Ronald M. “Ernie” Welp, 60, of East Dubuque, IL, died Friday, May 15, 2020 at home from natural causes.

A public visitation will be held from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the strict guidelines issued by the CDC and State will be followed and only (10) people will be allowed in the funeral home at any one time.

Ernie was born on April 4, 1960 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Norman F. and Jacqueline (Hodgson) Welp. He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School.

Ernie was formerly employed at Chicago-Dubuque Foundry in East Dubuque and Morrison Bros. Company in Dubuque for over 30 years.  He played bass and was a vocalist in many bands. “Ernie loved motorcycling and paragliding”.

Surviving are four children, Mike (Trudy) Welp of Oregon, WI, Ronald A. (Amanda Manemann) Welp of Dubuque, Cheyenne Lau of Dubuque and Riley Lau of Clinton, IA; seven grandchildren; his siblings, Daniel “Buck” Welp of East Dubuque, Linda (Russ Grant) Welp of Zwingle, IA, Judy Welp of East Dubuque, Diane Welp of Iowa City, IA and Christine (Tim) Knox of Oregon, WI, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents Norman and Jacqueline, his paternal and maternal grandparents.

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

Carol R. Marcus

Carol Ruth Marcus, 78, of Zwingle, Iowa went to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on May 16th, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by her loving family.

Arrangements are being handled by Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A private celebration of life service will be held at a later time.

Carol was born on August 25, 1941 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Leo Adams and Florence Orchide. She married John J. Marcus of Zwingle, IA on November 25, 1983 in Dubuque, IA.

Carol was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother; she enjoyed traveling to see family and stopping by the casino.

She is survived by her husband, John J. Marcus, of Zwingle, IA; her children Bill
(Dawn) Williams, of Freeport, IL, Robert (Cindy) Williams, of Houston, TX,  Andrew (Jamie) Williams, of Dubuque, IA, and Dan (Christina) Williams, of Dubuque, IA. One brother Calvin (Gerry) Adams, of Apollo Beach, Florida; two sisters Nancy (Sam) Zachary, of Houston, TX and Gail Adams of Burlington, IA. Many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family and loved one’s along with her
beloved dog Charlie.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents and son Robert M. Williams.

In lieu of flowers, please give memorial to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, Stonehill, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all
their wonderful care they gave to Carol.

Ila E. Budde

Ila Elizabeth Budde, 101, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 17, 2020 at Bethany Home.

A private family service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, with Pastor John Sorenson officiating. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the funeral home will provide a live stream video of the funeral service on Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory’s Facebook page at 11:00 a.m. Friday. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Ila was born on October 27, 1918 in Andrew, IA the daughter of Leo and Winifred (Fuller) Sommers. She attended a country school and was a graduate of Andrew High School.

She married Orville Budde in May of 1936 and together they had 16 children. Ila lived on a farm near Bellevue and moved to Dubuque in 1967.

She worked at Bellevue Hotel, Hattie’s Café, Woodpecker Shop and was Secretary Treasurer of Bellevue Township Schools. She was also on the board of Project Concern and Volunteered at the Grand Theatre for over 40 years as well as RSVP since 1994. Ila received a volunteer award from Gov. Branstad.

She was a member of 62 Plus Dupaco Senior Club and belonged to the 1918 Club. Ila completed a course from NICC at age 57 in Geriatric Nurse Aide. She loved the theatre, dancing, euchre, sewing, embroidering and crossword and jigsaw puzzles. Ila won many awards for her beautiful poetry and short stories.

She is survived by her children, Dale Budde of East Dubuque, IL, Marilyn (Dale) Junk of Bellevue, IA, Doris (Dave) Felderman of Dubuque, Jim (Barb) Budde of Bellevue, IA, Tom and Troy Budde of Dubuque, Kevin (Jean) Budde of the Quad Cities, Yvette McLimans of Dubuque, Marcia Budde of Colorado, Brent and Blayne (Robbin) Budde of Florida and Todd Budde of California; 38 grandchildren, 85 great grandchildren, and 20 great-great grandchildren; 26 step-grandchildren, 43 great step-grandchildren and 22 great-great step-grandchildren.

Ila was preceded in death by her three sons, Glenn, John and Raymond “Buster” Budde; a daughter, Marla; granddaughters, Chandra and Angela; twin grandchildren, Madeline and Spencer; grandsons, Steve and Brandon; great-great granddaughter Nyx Jones; sons-in-law, Leroy Felderman and Fred McLimans; step-grandson, Joe Hudspeth Jr.; ex-husband, Orville; brother and sister-in-law, Oscar and Sylvia (Kremer) Sommers and sisters, Vera Sommers and Marjorie Till.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent directly to the family or to the Leonard Funeral Home in care of the Ila Budde family. Online condolences may be left www.leonardfuneralhome.com

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Staff at Bethany Home and to Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they gave to Ila.