Obituaries Archive

Marcella M. Schmidt

Marcella M. Schmidt, 90, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2019, at the Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.
A memorial gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 6 P.M. on Friday, July 5, 2019, in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A private family graveside service and burial will be held at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Marcella Mary Ruggeberg was born on June 1, 1929 in rural Elwood, Iowa, to Marvin and Lillian (Farmer) Ruggeberg. She was a 1945 graduate of Elwood High School. She married Darrel J. Schmidt on October 26, 1946 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Two children were born to this union, Brenda and Robert.

Marcella was a homemaker and worked as a Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa for over 40 years.

Marcella loved dogs and mostly all animals. She enjoyed watching basketball and sports on tv, and playing cards, especially Euchre. Her family was most important to her and she loved spending time with them and attending the grandchildren’s events.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Brenda (Paul) Koob of Maquoketa, IA, and Robert “Bob” (Jeanne) Schmidt of Waterloo, IA; 4 grandchildren, Jennifer (Bob) Gavin of Maquoketa, IA, Joshua (Christa) Koob of Maquoketa, IA, Michael (Eileen) Schmidt of Hartford, WI, and Emily (John) Michel of Cedar Falls, IA; 8 great-grandchildren, Liz Gavin, Zac Gavin, Cael Koob, Cole Koob, Samantha Schmidt, Laura Schmidt, Charlotte Michel and Luke Michel; a sister, Evelyn Wachal of Davenport, IA; several nieces and nephews; a brother-in-law, Haven (Irma Jean) Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA; and a sister-in-law, Betty Eckeberg of Stevens Point, WI. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Darrel in 1970.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marcella M. Schmidt memorial fund has been established.

“The family wishes to especially thank the staff at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa and the staff of Hospice of Jackson County.”

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

Betty Jean Ansel

Betty Jean Ansel, 70, of Dubuque, was called home on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at the home of her daughter, Brenda, surrounded by family.

Graveside memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019 at Mount Olivet Cemetery with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. According to Betty’s wishes, no visitation will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Betty was born November 2, 1948 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Alfred & Betty Jane (Fox) Cornwell. She married the love of her life Dennis W. “Denny” Ansel on February 4, 1967, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque, IA. They spent 36 beautiful years together before his passing in 2003.

Betty and Denny were the owners of Ansel’s Auto Service & Towing and Betty waitressed at Monte Carlo Restaurant, for many years.

Betty enjoyed country music, racing and most of all family. Up until Denny’s passing in 2003, she could be found holding down the fort at the garage and on the weekends sitting in the grandstands at the local dirt tracks, surrounded by family and friends, wearing her Ansel 80 racing gear. After Denny’s passing you never seen Betty without her daughters, grandkids or great-grandkids nearby. She enjoyed her trips to Florida, The Dells, camping and her iced-cold Busch Lights, where everyone was welcomed.

Betty is survived by Peggy (Doug) Ohmert, La Motte, IA, Brenda (Mark C.) Sullivan, Kathy (Edward) Clancy, both of Key West, IA, Lori (Greg) Merfeld, Peosta, IA. Grandchildren Brandi Sue “the favorite” (Adam) Johnston, Krista Sullivan, Allan Ohmert, Steve Miller, Bubba (fiancé Abi), Thomas (Ariel) Ohmert, Morgan Miller, Dennelle and Jaime Clancy, Lucy, Joe and Maxine Merfeld; 6 great children, sisters Mary Lou (George) Flanagan, Phyllis Lang, and special family friends Richard & Judy Schmitt.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, brothers Don, Ron & Butch Cornwell; sisters Margaret “Peggy” Cornwell and Patricia “Pat” McAtee.

Peggy and her sister’s would like to give a very special thank you to her co-workers at Hospice of Dubuque for their help and support. A special thank you to Schmitty for “Beer Thirty’s” you spent with mom thru the years. She looked forward to her Saturday night visits with her drinking buddy.

Norman C. Steil

Norman Carl “Norm” Steil, 78, of Dubuque, IA went to join friends and loved ones in Heaven on Thursday, June 27th, 2019 after a long and hard-fought battle with stupid cancer.

A Celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque, with Pastor Dennis Schmitt officiating. Burial of Norm and Minnie will immediately follow in Dubuque Memorial Gardens with the presentation of the Four Fives by the Dubuque Fire Department. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 30, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory.

Norm was born in Asbury IA to Clem & Mathilda (Behnke) Steil on October 4, 1940. Norm spent early childhood with his 8 siblings on the farm until moving to the Carter Rd. area. He attended Dbq. Senior High. He served in the US Army National Guard. He then returned to Dubuque to create his legacy.

Norm married Mary Ann “Minnie” Dolter on January 22, 1966 at Holy Trinity Church and they spent nearly 50 years together raising 3 daughters and living life. Minnie sadly left us in 2014 and it was up to the girls after that to take care of Dad until his passing.

He joined the Dubuque Fire Department in 1966 and never looked back. He knew a good thing. He retired after 31 years of service to the City of Dubuque in 1997.

How do we describe our dad: hard worker, inspirational, inventive, genius, mentor, honest, perfectionist, bullheaded & stubborn, demanding of respect, strong willed, calling a spade a spade, anal with a touch of OCD, talented beyond belief, jack of all trades and master of many, “Stormin’ Norman” and of course ” our Dad, Grandpa and friend”.

The fire departments schedule offered the luxury of time, a schedule allowing him to do all sorts of side jobs. He was able to help at his sister & brother in laws farm, drive school bus and put his love of carpentry and construction to work. He and fellow fire fighter & friend Jim Weitz spent years doing odd jobs. Later in life he worked with his brother, Jim Steil, together they were a highly sought-after team. Together, they created a local reputation for doing meticulous carpentry work, often incorporating innovative ideas to show off their level of expertise.

Norm was always improving his home, helping others with odd jobs and was the one SO many went to for advice on projects. He could fix damn near anything…he may have had to do some head scratching, but loved a challenge and rarely did a problem present itself that he couldn’t solve and fix. Dad was the master of ideas & inventions that made things just plain better. A staunch and vocal critic of anything designed in a “piss poor” manner. Something he would groom his girls to be able to identify late on in life….because being off 1/16th of an inch matters! His girls would come up with crazy ideas of stuff we wanted built or fixed and after much grumbling (no seriously, a lot of grumbling) and saying it couldn’t be done, he would create what we thought we wanted, except he would make it better than what we had envisioned. He would point out the initial design flaws in our idea and then show us how he fixed them. Spending time with Norm was always a learning experience. He just had that knack for knowing a lot about a lot. Never arrogant but knowing the right way it should be done and wasn’t shy of calling you out when your ideas were not up to his standards!

Norm valued family. Minnie & Norm raised 3 daughters, and no one can dispute they provided love, stability and common sense values to each of them. He was an amazing teacher and mentor to his grandson Kyle and his son in law Jeff, 30+ years of being their go to person when they needed advice, guidance or a friend to just hang with.

He enjoyed so many great times throughout his life with great friends (typically involving cold beer). The stories he told…insert smiley face. The boys from the Durango area who he spent his teens with, raising hell, taking chances & living it up. The Jansen clan in the Sherrill area, cousins & partners in crime. The hunting trips are epic tales to remember. Fishing up in Danbury, Canada and down south. Guys he hung with at the taverns, worked with at the fire station, and fellow tradesman. Road trips with Stomp. Seeing Sequoia’s in Yosemite with Sandy. Wonderful neighbors whom he valued as fantastic friends & the weekly West Dubuque breakfast with Jim Hirsch & the ladies.

Norm is survived by daughters, who will miss him the most: Sheila (Jeff) Vandermillen, Lisa (Tim) Mueller of Dubuque and Sandy Steil of Iowa City, IA. His grandson and pride & joy Kyle Chase (Cassie Cannon); siblings Jerry (Gloria) Steil, Jim (Jean) Steil, Vern (Elaine) Steil, Alvina Murphy, Mary Ann Derouin (Twirp) & sister in law Jude Steil. Sister in laws Donna (Jim) Hirsch, Carol Karlin, Ruth (Roger) Konrardy and brother in law Dick (Barb) Dolter, step grandson David Mueller & many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his awesome wife, our mom “Minnie”, his parents, mother & father in law Leo & Leona (Schroeder) Dolter, brother Lenny Steil, sisters Elanor Lombardi & Evie Beecher, brother in laws Virgil Murphy, Don Derouin, Buck Beecher & Don Lombardi.

“That just about does it, don’t it” Vern Gosdin (the Voice)

Charles Klocker

Charles Klocker, 97, of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, June 26, 2019 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday, July 1, 2019 at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 30th at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road and on Monday, July 1st from 9 to 10 a.m. at Church of the Nativity.

Charles was born November 12, 1921, in Dyersville, IA, son of John and Katherine (Claus) Klocker. He married Betty Weimerskirch July 30, 1953 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Dubuque. She preceded him in death in March, 2015.

He was drafted into the U.S. Army on his birthday in 1942. He served with the 104th (Timber Wolf) Infantry Division in Europe from September 1944 thru June 1945. After his military service he was employed as a body and paint man at Runkles Car Dealership in Dyersville. He later went on to John Deere as a machinist and then welder, and worked in various departments.

He enjoyed boating on the Mississippi river, family gatherings, gardening and woodworking. He enjoyed both model and real steam trains. He built a model railroad in the basement of their house. It was modeled after the Colorado Rocky Mountain, where he had taken numerous vacation trips.

He was a longtime member of Nativity parish.

Surviving is a son Keith (Sharon) Klocker, of Dubuque and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, six sisters, three brothers, and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Peter and Rayse (Weidenbacher) Weimerskirsch.

The family would like to thank Dr. Salas and the staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital for their care shown to Charles.

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

Harold J. Weber

Harold J. Weber, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Monday, June 24, 2019 at MercyOne Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, July 3rd, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where funeral services will be at 1:00 p.m. with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating. Entombment and military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League will follow the service at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Harold was born on May 29, 1924 in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, the son of Roy and Sadie (Strief) Weber. He attended high school in Wisconsin Dells and was a part of the State Champion Basketball Team in his junior year. He was granted an early diploma in his senior year to allow him to enlist in the United States Marine Corps.

He served in the Marine Corps during WW II in the Pacific Theater, “Island Hopping” during many hard-fought battles. He returned home, and on December 14, 1948 he married Jocille Honerbaum in Lancaster. He owned and operated DISCO Building Improvement Co. for many years until his retirement.

Harold was a real people person. He loved to visit, and that quality made him a great salesperson. In his later years he enjoyed getting out for rides, and even made the trip to Washington DC with the Honor Flight program.

He is survived by his three children Sandra Gavin, Cindy Stecher and Randy Weber all of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and one great great grandchild; his sister Dorothy (Bob) Wick of Wisconsin Dells, and nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents and eight siblings.

In lieu of flowers a Harold Weber memorial fund will be established.

Grace Elizabeth Carling-Kelly

A beautiful and gracious lady, Grace Elizabeth Carling-Kelly, residing in Dubuque, Iowa passed away at the University Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa during the night on Wednesday June 26, 2019.

Please join us, as we gather to remember Grace and to celebrate a life well lived, at The Dubuque Museum of Art, 701 Locust St. Dubuque, Iowa on June 30th, 2019 between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com/notices/Grace-Carling-Kelly

Grace was born in Salem, New Jersey on March 13th, 1963 to Arlene and John Rieger. Shortly thereafter the family relocated to Ohio where Grace grew up New Philadelphia, Ohio before moving to Cleveland, Ohio. She attended Ohio State University and later became a self-employed currency trader.

Grace met Terry Carling-Kelly in Cleveland, Ohio in 1998 and they were married on December 31st, 2006 in Key West, FL. Living and working with Terry led to many moves, from Cleveland to Kansas City, Chicago, Mexico, MO before finally locating in Dubuque, Iowa.

Grace very much enjoyed spending time in the Florida Keys, gardening, traveling, sailing in the Gulf of Mexico and just living life to the fullest.

Grace Carling-Kelly is survived by her spouse Terry Carling-Kelly and her sister Merry Jill Wilson and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Grace’s name to the Dubuque Museum of Arts are encouraged. http://dbqart.com/donate/

A little Poem for Gracie
Love, to me is stumbling around in the dark trying to find the right words to describe the feelings I get when she smiles while she sleeps.

(aticus)

Alberta M. Briner

Alberta M. “Dolly” Briner, 82, of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, June 24, 2019 at Mill Valley Care Center.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Friday, June 28, 2019 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, family will greet friends 9:30 am until service time on Friday at Church. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery.

Dolly was born July 15, 1936 in Chicago, the daughter of Edward and Margaret (Olson) Kniffin. She married Dillard Briner on March 7, 1975 in Warrenville, Illinois. They spent many summers on their houseboat at Spruce Creek in Bellevue before settling in Bellevue in 1992 after retiring. Dolly and Dillard also spent many winters in Oklahoma.

Dolly worked for Automatic Electric which later became Verizon for 26 years and then worked for Jel-Sert (Freeze Pops) before retiring. Dolly and Dillard enjoyed country music dancing, going to garage sales, going to auctions, traveling, and spending time together.

Survivors include her husband, Dillard; children, Jackie (Allen) Christy, Lynn Kennedy, Lee (Roberta) Briner, and Monna (Donald Grow) Henry; 14 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and a sister, Bobbi Harbecke.

Dolly was preceded in death by her parents; a daughter and her husband Tammy and Mike Jones; a brother, Jimmy; and a sister, Margie.

A memorial fund has been established in Dolly’s memory.

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

Wesley F. Hammerand

Wesley F. Hammerand, age 73, passed away at his home in Dubuque, IA on Tuesday, June 25, 2019.

Friends may call at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque on Thursday, June 27, from 4 to 7 PM. A memorial service will be offered at the Sherrill United Methodist Church on Friday, June 28, at 10 AM. Pastor Emily Blue will be presiding.

Wes was born on October 24, 1945 to his parents, Clarence and Hulda Hartbecke Hammerand. Wes married the love of his life, Marlene A. Polsean on May 18, 1971; she preceded him in death on July 7, 2005.

Wesley worked for John Deere Dubuque Works as a senior designer as well as being a self-employed electrician, and helping on the family farm. Wes always helped his friends and family whenever he could.

He was an active member of the Dubuque Rifle and Pistol Club even serving as their Vice President. He enjoyed woodworking, loved traveling, where he visited 49 states. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and visiting with his friends and neighbors. He was a 50 year member of the Masonic Temple and a 10 year member of the Elks Club #297. He was a lifelong member of the Sherrill United Methodist Church.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his children, Jill (Clint) Auderer of Holy Cross, IA and Phillip (Dianne) Hammerand of Davenport, IA; his grandchildren, Ashley, Vaughn, Chloe, Trent, Ellie Auderer, Ziva, and Ori Hammerand; his brother, Lester (Nancy) Hammerand of Dubuque; his significant other, Joanne Haywood, Dubuque, IA.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Orville and Louis Hammerand.

The family wants to thank all of the wonderful friends and neighbors who Wes enjoyed spending a lot of time with.
A memorial for the Sherrill United Methodist Church has been established.

Online condolences may be made at www.hskfh.com

Mina F. Davison Hinrichsen

Mina F. Davison Hinrichsen, 100, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away quietly on Sunday evening, June 23, 2019, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Mina’s life will be held at 1:15 P.M., Friday, June 28, 2019, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 28, 2019, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Mina was born on August 30, 1918. Her parents were Marco and Edna (Dunn) Walker of Maquoketa, Iowa. She attended the Buckhorn School. She married Glenn Davison in March of 1936 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He preceded her in death in 1979. She later married Carl Hinrichsen in 1989 in Clinton, Iowa. He preceded her in death in 1993.

Mina worked at various jobs over the years. She farmed with her husband on their crop and livestock farm north of Maquoketa, was a salesperson at Max Ray’s Jewelry Store and Gambles Department Store in Maquoketa and owned and operated Mina’s Gifts in Bellevue. She loved helping others find just the right piece of jewelry or gift for that special occasion.

Mina had been a member of the Andrew Presbyterian Church where she was the church organist for many years. Additionally, she was a member of the Andrew Petal Pals, and a Sewing and Quilting Circle. She was a longtime volunteer at the Maquoketa Senior Center, where she earned the distinguished Iowa Governor’s Award for volunteerism. She stayed active well into her nineties by riding the local RTA bus to attend and socialize at the center.

She enjoyed flower gardening, playing the organ, making quilts, crocheting, cooking, baking, ceramic dolls, and entertaining and hosting. She loved spending time with her family, especially when her son Chuck made breakfast for everyone, and she was more than happy to share all her pie and bread baking secrets with him.

Those left to honor Mina’s memory include her children, Chuck (Barb) Davison of Maquoketa, IA, and Virginia Munson of Eagle Rock, MO; 7 grandchildren, Harley (Stephanie) Davison of Baldwin, IA, Carrie (Teagan) Rouse of Bettendorf, IA, Adam (Brittni) Davison of LaMotte, IA, Lisa (Bob) Hilbert of DeWitt, IA, Eric (Stacy) Travis of DeWitt, IA, Ron Munson of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Rich (Roxanna) Munson of Raleigh, NC; and 16 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Glenn and her husband Carl, infant daughter Barbara, a daughter Sheila Songer, a brother Phillip Walker, and a grandson Don Munson.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Mina F. Davison Hinrichsen memorial fund has been established.

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

Vernon Thomas

Vernon “Vern” Thomas, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away June 24th, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 27th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Visitation will held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26th at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory. Burial and Military Honors by American Legion Post #6 will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

He was born on September 3, 1931 to Carl and Mary (Hanson) Thomas in Dubuque County. He married Dorothy Kremer on February 7, 1953 in Dubuque, IA, and she preceded him in death on February 10, 2003.

Vern served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He worked primarily in construction and truck driving until 1960, at which time he began work at John Deere Dubuque Works.

He and Dorothy lived in Dubuque until 1963, moving at that time to St. Donatus, IA. Following the incorporation of St. Donatus in 1965, Vernon served as the town’s first mayor. In 1970 he left John Deere Works, and he and Dottie commenced farming in Tete Des Morts Twp, Jackson Co. In 1976 they quit farming and Vern returned to the trucking industry as a self-employed owner/operator.

In January 1991 he and Dottie purchased a restaurant that for many years operated under the name “Travelers Cafe”. The business was appropriately later renamed “Dottie’s Cafe”. Vern remained active in the trucking business until 1993 at which time he officially retired. Both Vern and Dottie then got involved in crafts with Vern being in charge of forming, firing and painting/glazing of ceramics. Vern spent many winter months in his home in Leesburg, Florida.

Surviving are his 11 children; Sandy (John) Bechen, Dubuque, Sharon ( George) Abresch, Clear Lake IA., Steve (Julie) Thomas, Louisburg, WI., Sheila White, Dubuque, Stanley (Carla) Thomas, Peosta, IA., Sally (Rick) Lang, Dubuque, Sharlene ( Mick) Cornwell, Manchester, IA., Scott (Alesia) Thomas, Dubuque, Shawn (Peggy) Thomas, Dubuque, Stacey (Jim) LaPage, Sherrill, IA., Suzanne (Randy) Ristau, Cascade, IA. He has 41 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Dottie, his parents; 5 grandchildren; John Jr. Bechen, James Brom, Michelle LaPage, Michael Ristau, Josh Kirkpatrick. Sisters Lou (Steuer)Hess and Marie Thomas.

The family would like to make a special THANK YOU to the wonderful staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

George W. Lyons

George W. “Cork” Lyons, age 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey on Saturday, June 22, 2019 at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor George, a Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, July 22, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in the Riverfront Pavilion at Eagle Point Park, 2601 Shiras Avenue, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001. Family and friends of George may visit from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Riverfront Pavilion. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving George’s family.

George was born on July 11, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa, to George F. “Buster” and Leona V. (Meggenberg) Lyons. He was truly happy to be able to spend his entire life here in Dubuque, surrounded by family and friends. After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1961, George was united in marriage to the love of his life, Sandy Rapp. They were blessed with 53 years together, along with two wonderful children and four grandchildren. His devotion and commitment to his family was a definite driving force in his life.

He spent over 40 years as an electrician at the Dubuque Packing Company, FDL, Farmland, and Smithfield. George remained working at the Pack building to prepare for its demolition and was the last person to turn out the lights. He carried his strong work ethic and attention to detail into work with him every day. After retirement, George enjoyed spending time with his family, doing home improvement projects with his son, listening to old time radio stories, and taking rides with his faithful golden retriever, Luna.

We love George more than words could say and know he will live on through us by the way he touched our lives. Thank you, George, for every ounce of energy you spent being an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Happy trails to you George, until we meet again on the other side.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of George include

his loving wife,
Sandy (Rapp) Lyons, Dubuque, Iowa;

his two children,
Chris (Wendy) Lyons, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Kelly (David Svejda) Lyons, Milwaukee, Wisconsin;

his four grandchildren,
Quinn Lyons, George “Jake” Lyons, Sophia Lyons and Ryan Svejda;

his sister,
Lavina Kay Rokusek, Seattle, Washington;

along with numerous extended family members and friends.

George was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a George W. “Cork” Lyons memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

George’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they have provided for him, and his family.

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

Donna T. Kruse

Donna T. Kruse, 84, of Dyersville and formerly of Petersburg passed away Monday, June 24, 2019, at Oak Crest Manor in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 3-8 p.m. Thursday, June 27, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Friday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 28, 2019, at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Donna was born July 14, 1934, in Colesburg, Iowa the daughter of Arnold and Marie (Lansing) Weber. She married John “Jake” Kruse on June 14, 1955, in Colesburg. Together they farmed and raised their family near the Petersburg area on the Kruse family farm.

Donna was a most dedicated daughter of our Heavenly Father who modeled kindness to all she met. She was a mother who made every sacrifice for her husband, children and grandchildren. She taught all how to live gracefully and enjoyed each moment “one day at a time.” She had a true passion and love for the land and managing the family farm. She was a fervent learner and had a commitment to inspire her children to pursue lifelong educational opportunities, always assuring us that no matter the path, one must always be humble and kind.

Survivors include her children: Barbara (Martin) Pape of Olathe, KS, Sharon (Kerry) Ungs of Dunedin, FL, Phyllis (Dave) Blech of Bellevue, IA, Ellen (Neil) Kramer of New Vienna, IA, Amy Mescher-McAllister (Jeffrey Huffman) of Waterloo, IA, Jill (Paul) Manternach of Clear Lake, IA, Lisa (Mike) Krapfl of Dubuque and Rob (Karla) Kruse of Petersburg; 29 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren and expecting another in August; siblings: Catherine Westhoff, Joan (Ray) Nurre, Connie Weber, Jim (Mary) Weber and John (Deb) Weber; in-laws: Ken (Mona) Kruse, Betty Weber and Dick Haupert

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John in 2010, grandson, John Kramer in 2010; siblings: Alice (Charlie) Nurre, Joe Weber and Angeline Haupert; in-laws: Roland Westhoff, Arnold Kruse and Armella (Gilbert) Ries.

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

Robert J. Troy

Robert J. “Bob” Troy, age 60, of Dubuque, was called home unexpectedly at 5:16 a.m., on Monday, June 24, 2019, at MercyOne Dubuque. To honor Bob’s life, funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 27, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Tony Keppler officiating. To celebrate Bob’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m., until the time of services at 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, June 27, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Bob was born on October 28, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Leo M. and Marlene (Ward) Troy Sr.

Bob was a proud lifelong Dubuquer who graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1977. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Susan Willging, on April 4, 1989, at E.B. Lyons in Dubuque. The two have been blessed with 30 wonderful years together and 3 adored children. He was always a hard worker, and has been employed with Andersen Window for the last 16 years as a quality control technician. He was an extremely talented woodworker, and in his free time Bob created beautiful cabinets and pieces for family and friends. Bob liked spending time outside helping Susan tend to the gardens and building her two greenhouses, which she loved and he was very proud of. He was always on the move, though at his own pace. Some of his favorite activities were kayaking, fishing, and brewing his own craft beer. Bob was a talented musician, playing the drums with several local bands throughout the years in the tri-state area. Bob had a kind soul, and was well known for his generosity with his time, often volunteering to help family, friends and neighbors with projects around their homes. No task was ever too big or too small. Bob was especially helpful to his mom and to Susan’s parents. We are deeply saddened at losing our wonderful husband, dad, grandpa and brother, and wish we would have more than just the 60 years we were blessed to have him here with us. We do however find some comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully, free of the health issues he has faced so bravely these past months. Bob was truly the foundation and rock for many members of his family. We will love you and miss you forever!

Those left to cherish Bob’s memory include

his wife,
Susan Troy, Dubuque, IA;

his 3 children,
Noah (April) Francois, Dubuque, IA,
Eric (Sofia Castellanos) Troy, Dubuque, IA
and Anna Troy, Chicago, IL;

his 3 grandchildren,
Noah Jr., Cody and Summer Francois, all of Dubuque, IA;

his adopted “grandson”,
Trenten Avenarius, Pensacola, FL;

his mother,
Marlene Troy, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Charlie (Linda) Troy, Dubuque, IA,
Leo (Joanne) Troy, Dubuque, IA,
Denny (Julie DeMaio) Troy, Dubuque, IA,
Tim Troy, Las Vegas, NV,
Tracey (Aaron) Troy-Glass, Pace, FL,
Dave (Carolyn) Troy, Las Vegas, NV
and Kathy Troy-Cottrell, Dubuque, IA;

and his best friends,
Tom Colson,
Ed Marenko
and Tim Lange, all of Dubuque, IA.

Bob was preceded in death by his father, Leo M. Troy Sr.; and his dear friend, Lisa Hammer.

Bob’s generosity continued even after he passed away with his donation to the Iowa Donor Network as part of their eye donor program.

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

Homer R. Fritz

Homer R. Fritz, 94, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, June 24, 2019 at Bethany Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 27, 2019, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West, IA. Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 26th, at Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd.., Dubuque, where there will be a wake service at 4:30 p.m.

Homer was born November 13, 1924 in Benton, Wis., the son of LeRoy and Berniece Murray Fritz. On June 27, 1946 he married Mary M. Heavey at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Dubuque. She preceded him in death July 1, 2011.

He was employed with the U.S. Postal Service.

He was a member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and the American Legion.

Those left to honor his memory include his daughter, Patricia Peterson of Mesa, AZ; three grandchildren, Kristin (Jim) Tate of Chandler, AZ, Robin (Brodie) Soare of Phoenix, AZ, and Erin (Mark) Lehman of Wichita, KS; 8 great grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; two brothers, Bill (Betty) Fritz of Dubuque and Tony (Carole) Fritz of Galena and several nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife he was preceded in death by his parents; one son-in-law, Dan, two brothers, and four sisters.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque, his nieces in California, especially Mary Ann Galassi.

Memorials may be made to Bethany Home or Hospice of Dubuque

Online condolences can be sent to www.hskfh.com

Ida Mae Matthiessen

Ida Mae Matthiessen, 74, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, June 23, 2019, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A natural journey farewell with cremation has taken place. There are no public visitation or services planned at this time.

Ida Mae Chorpening was born on July 20, 1944 in Muscatine, Iowa, to Melvin and Edna (Webb) Chorpening. She attended Letts, Iowa School. She married Kevin Matthiessen on March 28, 1987 in Muscatine, Iowa.

Ida had worked at Pizza Hut and Snackers in Muscatine. She most notably had delivered The Shopper in Maquoketa for 16 years.

Ida enjoyed bowling, visiting with friends, crocheting, collecting angels and camping.

Those left to honor Ida’s memory include her husband, Kevin Matthiessen of Maquoketa, IA; children, Sherrie Lett of Muscatine, IA, Marcia Colvin of Iowa City, IA, Paul (Wanita) Brewer of Grandview, IA, Lyle (Joy) Brewer of Divide, CO, Scott (Joanne) Brewer of Tucson, AZ, and Arnold (Robi) Brewer of Maquoketa, IA; 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; and a sister Carol Meeker Hayes of Wapello, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Ida Mae Matthiessen memorial fund has been established.

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