Obituaries Archive

Bernice E. Frommelt

Bernice E. Frommelt, 103 ½ , of Dubuque, was called home on December 22, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque with her family by her side.

To celebrate Bernice’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Thursday, December 26, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home where a prayer service will be held at 2:30 PM.

To honor Bernice’s life, a funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM Friday, December 27, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Bernice was born on July 6, 1916, in Peru Township, the daughter of Peter and Anna Harvey Gottschalk. She attended Sageville Grade School and worked on the family farm. She married Karl J. Frommelt on June 7, 1943 at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on January 30, 1966.

She worked at the Battery Factory when first married until she started having her children. In 1952 she and Karl built and operated the Radio Motel until 1977 when she converted the Radio Motel into the Radio Apartments. She and Karl also owned and operated the Stop and Sock Golf Range in the 1960’s.

Bernice was a smart businesswoman, a hard worker, and was always there when someone needed help. She was very strong-willed, always spoke her mind. Bernice was fun-loving with a great sense of humor. She was an accomplished dancer and, when she was younger, danced at Melody Mill and all other ballrooms in the surrounding area. She was a great cook and gardener and loved flowers. She was an avid Euchre player and played in Euchre tournaments through her 99th year. Above all she loved her children and grandchild.

Those left to cherish Bernice’s memory are her children, Francis (Karen “Cookie”) Frommelt of Dubuque, and Jane (Keith) Bahl of Durango; her beloved grandson, Chad Frommelt; her sister, Shirley (Larry) McNamer; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she preceded in death by her parents, father- and mother-in-law, Andrew and Pauline Frommelt, her sister, Virginia (Walter) McLaughlin, her brother Raymond “Sonny” (Janann) Gottschalk, brother- and sister-in-laws, Clarence and (Ruth) Frommelt, Anthony (Virginia) Frommelt, John (Delores) Frommelt, Andrew (Bernice) Frommelt, and William (Dorothy) Frommelt, her longtime friend, Harold Beecher, and nephews, Daniel McLaughlin, George Frommelt, Tom Frommelt, and Carl Frommelt.

In lieu of flowers, memorial have been established for Holy Spirit Parish, Dubuque Humane Society, Dubuque Food Pantry, and Dubuque Salvation Army.

The family wishes to thank Hawkeye Care Center for their extraordinary loving care of Bernice and St. Croix Hospice for their exemplary care as well.

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

Donna K. Cremer

Donna K. (Isaacs) (Kennedy) Cremer, age 81, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 10:20 a.m., on Sunday, December 22, 2019, at Bethany Home.  To celebrate Donna’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, December 26, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 7:00 p.m. To honor Donna’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, December 27, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Mark Kwenin officiating.  Burial will be in Hickory Grove Cemetery, Canton, Iowa.

Donna was born on February 24, 1938, in Maquoketa, Iowa, daughter of Kenneth and Margaretta (Ralston) Isaacs.

Donna lived most of her live in Dubuque, and was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.  She was united in marriage to William Kennedy on December 27, 1957, but he would sadly pass away before her after only 8 short years in 1966.  Happily, Donna would go on to once again find love and would marry Gary Cremer in April of 1974.  The two would spend 29 wonderful years together until he was also called home ahead of her in June of 2003.  Donna was always a dedicated employee and spent most of her working career as a bookkeeper for the Dubuque Packing Company, and then with Midwest Adjustment until her well earned retirement.  When Donna found some free time in her days she enjoyed tending to her beautiful flower gardens or staying indoors to work on her latest jigsaw puzzle.  She truly was a “people person” and loved to spend time with her family and friends sitting and talking, taking a shopping trip, or even occasionally trying her luck at one of the local casinos.  Beyond a doubt her family, especially the grandchildren, meant the whole world to her.  Donna’s faith was also an integral part of her life, as was evidenced by her long time membership with Sacred Heart Church.  We are deeply saddened at losing Donna in our daily lives, and will miss her more than words can express.  We love you!

Those left to cherish Donna’s memory include

her children,
Mike (Peggy) Kennedy, Epworth, IA,
Dan (Beth) Kennedy, Dubuque, IA,
Jeff (Ann) Cremer, Dubuque, IA,
Sheri Scheffert, Dubuque, IA
and Shelley (Jay) Lanser, Dubuque, IA;

her 13 grandchildren;

and her 15 great-grandchildren.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents; her 1st husband, William Kennedy; her 2nd husband; Gary Cremer; a son, Tim Kennedy; and a granddaughter, Kellie.

Donna’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Bethany Home, and 2nd floor at Mercy Hospital, for all of their kind, considerate and compassionate care of Donna and the entire family.

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

John W. Theisen

John William “Bill” Theisen, 88, of Holy Cross passed away Saturday, December 21, 2019, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. Thursday, December 26, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross where a parish vigil service will be held at 2:30 p.m.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Friday prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 27, 2019, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery at a later date.  Rev. Noah Diehm will officiate and Rev. Al Vorwald will concelebrate.

Bill was born August 20, 1931, in Holy Cross, the son of Lawrence and Cecilla (Pfeiler) Theisen.  He married Elizabeth Herbst on November 17, 1953, in Asbury, Iowa. They were members of the Holy Cross Catholic Church.  Family and fun were his priorities.

Bill worked at the Battery Factory until it closed in 1956; he then went to work at the Creamery in Holy Cross until he started driving milk truck.  In 1959, he bought his own milk truck which he owned and operated under John “Bill” Theisen and Son until 1973.  After that, he began driving for Theisen’s Distributing in Dubuque and then Paisley Trucking until his retirement.

He was involved in establishing the HC/NBV Fire Department and became the first Assistant Chief, among many other volunteer activities with the HC Athletic Club and High School Athletic activities.  He enjoyed driving a group to Chicago for the annual Cubs/Cardinals game, and driving the bus for local semi-pro team.

Survivors include his children: Diane (Dave) Ronek of Cascade, Cheri (Joe) Oglesby of Cuba City, Wis., Jack (Jodee) Theisen of Holy Cross, Lori (Rich) Oglesby of Cuba City, Wis. and Lisa (Randy) Wolf of Dallas Center, Iowa; grandchildren: Renee (fiance′ Jordan) Ambrosy, Sarah Ambrosy, Jeremy (Jennifer) Ambrosy, Brandon (Becky) Oglesby, Amy (Dan) McGovern, Alli, Jeff and Hanna Theisen, Jason (Angie), Tanner (Kayla), Sadie, Sawyer, Tessa, Jayna and Carson Oglesby, Lucas and Miranda Wolf; great grandchildren, Maggie, Griffin and Lucee McGovern, Addison and Henry Ambrosy, Veronica Ambrosy-Weir, Ashlyn and Taylor Oglesby and two more Oglesby’s expected; siblings: Jim Theisen and Rita Theisen; in-laws: Bill Bohr, Anita (Jim) Gulyash and Sylvia Dietz.

He was preceded in death by a son, Jeff in infancy; his parents and parents-in-law, Leo and Elizabeth Herbst, a sister, Mary Kay Bohr, in-laws: Shirley Theisen, Florence (Charles) Weiland, Arlene (Charlie) Chapman, Rosie (Tom) Ehrlich, Leo J. (Toots) Herbst, LaVon (Leo) Abitz and Ken Dietz.

Special thanks to the staff at Oak Crest/MercyOne Senior Care where he was known as “Big Bill” and “Billiam”, for the wonderful care and companionship.  Thanks, also, to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful guidance over the last 9 months.

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

Raphael T. Riniker

Raphael Thomas “Ray” Riniker, 56, of Garnavillo, Iowa, formerly of Masonville, passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2019, at the Guttenberg Municipal Hospital in Guttenberg. He was born on October 11, 1963, in Manchester, the son of Andrew Sr. and Coletta C. (Clemen) Riniker.

After Ray left home, he resided at the State Hospital in Woodward for a couple of years. He then lived for many years at Area Residential Care (ARC) in Dubuque. From 1998, Ray made his home at G & G Living in Garnavillo (now called Imagine the Possibilities), where he received exemplary care.

Ray enjoyed food of all kinds and traveling anywhere in the Imagine the Possibilities van. His face would light up when his favorite staff would come to the door, and he’d run to give them a hug. Ray also loved listening to rock and roll, going for rides with his brother Paul, and of course, giving and receiving hugs.

Ray is survived by his siblings, Andrew Riniker Jr. of Masonville, Paul (Janet) Riniker of Greeley, Margaret (Russell) Wilhelm of Bellevue, Gerald Riniker of Manchester, and Anthony (Leah) Riniker of Glyndon, Minnesota; and five nieces and two nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents and a niece, Teresa Riniker.

Ray’s family would like to thank all the caregivers who provided Ray with such wonderful care through the years.

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

Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2019, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, with the Reverend Gabriel Anderson officiating.

Visitation: 9:00 to 10:45 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2019, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester.

Inurnment at a Later Date: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery – Manchester, Iowa

John L. Gansen

John L. Gansen, 75, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on November 26, 2019 at The Trinity Center in Farmington, MN.

A gathering of friends and relatives will be held from 3 to 7 on Thursday, December 26, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa.

He was born June 30, 1944 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Louis J. and Phyllis A. (Schlosser) Gansen. He is a graduate of the former St. Clements School in Bankston, IA. On September 2, 1967 he was united in marriage to Margaret “Peggy” McDermott. She preceded him in death on January 10, 2016.

He was a maintenance worker for Rentech Nitrogen in East Dubuque, Illinois for 47 years, retiring in 2014. He enjoyed going to stock car races, and fishing in his boat on the Mississippi. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, and his life companion his dog Amber, who became his salvation after losing his wife.

He was an Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam war.

He is survived by two children, Michele Gansen-Hedegaard of Eagan, MN and Christopher (Shannon) Gansen of Los Angeles, CA; Four grandchildren, Benned, Jackson and Hayden Hedegaard and Ava Gansen; Two brothers, Bob Gansen of East Dubuque, IL and Tom Gansen of Dubuque, IA; one brother-in-law, Dale Sheehy of Brooklyn, WI; his mother-in-law, Coletta McDermott of Epworth, IA; nine brothers and sisters-in-law, Patrick McDermott of Keizer, OR, Bonnie (Neal) Gotto of New Vienna, IA, Bernard (Mary) McDermott of Dubuque, IA, Terry (Connie) McDermott of Dubuque, Debby Forkenbrock of Epworth, IA, Donna (Patrick) Smith of Dubuque, IA, Sharon (Dave) Reardon of Dubuque, IA, Rhonda (Tom) Gotto of Epworth, IA and Mary (Gerry) Dermott-Weydert of Asbury, IA.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Nancy Sheehy; his father-in-law, Donald C. “Benny” McDermott; and a brother-in-law, Jimmy McDermott.

The family would like to thank all the care givers for John, especially his Oncologist, Dr. Konstantinus Leventakos and the lung cancer care team at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

LeRoy A. Kelchen

LeRoy A. Kelchen, 80, of Dyersville passed away Saturday, December 21, 2019, at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. Monday, December 23, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. Tuesday prior to funeral services.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 24, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

LeRoy was born June 21, 1939, in Worthington, IA, the son of Peter and Florence (Leigh) Kelchen.  He married Roselyn Boge on April 15, 1963, in Dyersville, Iowa. They spent 56 years together. During that time he loved her and was very protective of her. They walked together through all of life’s challenges and celebrations.  He and Roselyn farmed east of Dyersville since 1965, and he worked for Charles Hermsen Implement for 34 years.  LeRoy loved playing eucher, spending time with family and all things IH.

Survivors include his wife, Roselyn, children: Bruce (Marcia) Kelchen of New Vienna, Bryan (Shelley) Kelchen of Dyersville, Kyle (Mary Jo) Kelchen of Epworth, Laura Kelchen of Marion, 2 daughters-in-law, Lori Kelchen of Asbury and Tina Kelchen of Bellevue; grandchildren: Jacob, Joshua, James and Kaitlin Kelchen, Mark, Travis, and Tyler Kelchen, Shelby, Cody Lucas and Anthony Kelchen, Cole and Nick Kelchen, Emma, Nicole, Shane and Tate Kelchen; great grandchildren: Sawyer, Tayah and Stella Kelchen; siblings: Elsie Althoff of Earlville and Harold (Pearl) Kelchen of Cedar Rapids; in-laws: Roseanne Kelchen and Mary Kelchen, both of Edgewood, Norma Kelchen of Manchester, Vernon (Sheila) Boge and Donald Boge, both of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Charles and Emily (Vossmann) Boge, 2 sons, Lyle and Mitchell Kelchen, a daughter, Loretta Kelchen; siblings: Ernie (Erma and Marianne) Kelchen, Lloyd Kelchen, Eugene Kelchen, Leon (Dixie) Kelchen, Gerald Kelchen, Verna Kelchen and Grace (Clete) Burkle, and a brother-in-law, Emil Althoff.

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

Patricia A. Pfohl

Patricia Ann Pfohl, 82, of Dubuque, died Sunday, December 22, 2019, at the Dubuque Specialty Care.

Visitation will be from 9:30 AM until 10:30 AM Thursday, December 26, 2019, at Cathedral of St. Raphael, 231 Bluff Street.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Patty will be 10:30 AM Thursday, December 26, 2019, at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Rev. Father Greg Bahl as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Patricia was born July 7, 1937, in Dubuque, she was the daughter of Raymond P. and Helen Rudd Pfohl.

Survivors include several cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A special thank you to Dubuque Specialty Care, especially Tammy for all their loving care and Lisa Flanagann for the loving care.

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

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

David A. Radloff

David A. Radloff, 83, of Dickeyville, WI, passed away Saturday, December 21, 2019, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehab.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, December 24, at St. Raphael Cathedral, 231 Bluff St., Dubuque. Msgr. Thomas Toale will officiate. Interment will be in Linwood Cemetery, with military honors accorded. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, December 23, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 4 p.m.

David was born October 2, 1936, the son of Walter and Florence (Burroughs) Radloff. After graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving for four years. David married Doris Clay on December 24, 1959.

David enjoyed hunting and fishing, and was an avid outdoorsman He taught his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many neighborhood children about nature. During the summers, he enjoyed taking the neighborhood kids fishing, and to the swimming pool in his pick-up truck. He was a member of St. Raphael Cathedral.

David is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Doris Radloff, of Dubuque; three children, Richard (Shail) Radloff of Ellenboro, NC, Debra (Chuck) Smith of Shelbyville, KY, and Michael (LeAnn Spofford) Radloff of Platteville, WI; four grandchildren, Shane Radloff, Aaron (Jeni) Lange, Adam (Tracy) Lange, and Casey (Samantha) Lange; 13 great-grandchildren, Lexi and Hayden Radloff, Hannah Oberhoffer, Gracie Lange, Cole and Ella Oberhoffer, Wyatt Lange, Landen and Carter Lange, Myah and Alivia Lange, and Ava and Mason Lange; two sisters, Mary Ann Wagner of Dubuque, and Janice (Dan) Honkomp of Manchester, IA; a sister-in-law, Janelle Radloff; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Delmar and Gary Radloff.

Memorials may be made to the David A. Radloff Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehab;  Hospice of Dubuque, especially Courtney, Amy, and Julie; and his sister, Mary Ann Wagner, for her generosity.

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

Virginia E. Schmitt

Virginia E. “Trixie” (Ritt) Schmitt, age 86, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:28 p.m., on Friday, December 20, 2019, at Luther Manor, surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Trixie’s life, family and friends may visit from 12:00 noon  until 4:45 p.m., on Friday, December 27, 2019, at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 5131 Sherrill Road. To honor Trixie’s life, funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m., on Friday, December 27, 2019, at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating.  Burial will be in Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangement.

Trixie was born on January 8, 1933, in Balltown, Iowa, daughter of Alfred and Viola (Gansemer) Ritt.

Trixie was born and raised in Balltown before moving to Sherrill where she would become an active member of the community and would serve as the City Clerk for 30 years.  She was united in marriage to Melvin “Boots” Schmitt on April 22, 1952, in Balltown, Iowa.  Sadly they were blessed with only 15 short years together before Boots was called home on July 20, 1967.  Trixie was always a hard worker and would put her talents to good use with ARA Food Service at John Deere for 30 years, as well as at The Barn in Sherrill for 12 years.  She was a faith filled woman and long time active member of Ss. Peter and Paul Church.  Trixie had a green thumb and would put in a large garden every year, full of strawberries, and would turn the fruits of her labor into incredible dishes in the kitchen.  No one ever left Trixie’s hungry or thirsty, as she always had an ice cold Diet Pepsi nearby.  She had an outgoing personality and truly enjoyed spending time with family and friends, whether it be playing cards, sitting and visiting or traveling on an organized bus trip.  We are deeply saddened at the loss of our vibrant and loving mom, grandma, great-grandma, sister and friend in our daily lives.  We love you more than words can ever truly express and will miss you dearly.

Those left to cherish Trixie’s memory include

her children,
Janice “Mabel” (John) Freiburger, Peosta, IA,
Dennie (Deb) Schmitt, Sherrill, IA,
David “Chip” Schmitt, Sherrill, IA,
Joyce (Frank) Freiburger, Dubuque, IA
and Dale “Skinny” Schmitt, Dubuque, IA;

her former daughter-in-law,
Crystal (Leddy Bastien) Schmitt, Sherrill, IA;

her grandchildren,
Matt (Jenny) Freiburger, Sarah (Brad) Petitgout, Katie Hayes, Amanda “Pudge” Freiburger, Becky Schmitt, Rob (Katie) Schmitt, Justin (Stacey) Schmitt, Kyle Schmitt, Chad Schmitt, Jordan Freiburger, Ellie (Cody “Mote”) Wintermote, Chase (Rose) Schmitt, Cody (Nicole) Schmitt and Cathryn (Luke Marburger) Schmitt;

her 20 great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Doris Mae Brimeyer, Sherrill, IA,
Pat (Jerome) Clemen, Holy Cross, IA
and Donald (Doris) Ritt, Balltown, IA;

and her in-laws,
Donnie Schmitt, Sherrill, IA,
Lucy Schmitt, Dubuque, IA
and Mary Schmitt, Dubuque, IA.

Trixie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Melvin “Boots” Schmitt, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jake and Louisa (Lochner) Schmitt; and her in-laws, Marie (Harry) Heitzman, Lou (Ralph) Roth, Rita (Paul) Kane, Dick Schmitt, Jerry Schmitt, Norman Schmitt, Clifford Brimeyer, Janet Schmitt and Dorraine (Leo) Frick.

Trixie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Trixie’s care givers at Luther Manor, especially Diane P. and Linda the bus driver and Mary.  Also thanks to nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sue, for all of their kind and compassionate care.

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

Marina B. (Stecklein) Lehmann

Marina B. (Stecklein) Lehmann, 88 of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly of Farley, Iowa passed away peacefully on December 20, 2019 at Eagle Pointe Place, Dubuque. She was preceded in death by her husband, Elmer L. Lehmann (June 24, 2000).

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Sunday, December 22, 2019 at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F Kennedy Road in Dubuque. At 3:30 p.m. a brief prayer service will be held by the Farley Unit 656 American Legion Auxiliary. At 7:00 p.m. the parish wake service will take place. Friends may also call Monday from 8:45 am – 9:30 am at the funeral home.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Monday, December 23, 2019 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Dubuque, Iowa. Rev. Steven Rosonke will officiate. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

Marina was born on April 21,1931 in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Rupert Edmund and Martina Mary (Kurt) Stecklein. She grew up in rural Cascade, Iowa, and graduated from St. Mary High School in 1949. She married her sweetheart, Elmer Lehmann, on May 12, 1953 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Cascade.

She and her husband, Elmer, farmed in rural Farley for more than 40 years. While raising her four children, Marina was a volunteer representative for Youth for Understanding (YFU), a foreign exchange student organization. She and Elmer hosted many international students during their life on the farm and traveled to visit some of those students in Sweden and Brazil. For more than 40 years, Marina baked and decorated cakes for weddings, birthdays, and special occasions. It has been said, “You know you’re from Farley if Marina Lehmann made your wedding cake.”

Marina and Elmer met at a dance in Cascade, Iowa; during their 47 years of marriage they enjoyed time on the dance floor, dancing to “Elmer’s Tune” and other favorites. They enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Cubs games together; Marina remained an avid fan of both.

Marina said her greatest accomplishment in life was her family. She delighted in the company of her four children and their families, including nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren (who called her “GG”). She proudly attended their school events, made special cakes for their birthdays and other celebrations, and supported them throughout their lives. Marina’s philosophy was “Life is what you make of it”. She was a shining example of this adage, always seeing the positive aspects of any situation in life.
She had a strong faith and trust in God, praying the Rosary daily since her teenage years. She was a loyal and active parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Farley, Iowa where she was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society and served as a Eucharistic Minister. She was a 50-year member of the American Legion Auxiliary. When Marina and Elmer moved to Dubuque in 1998, she became a member of St. Anthony Parish in Dubuque, Iowa and served as a Eucharistic Minister.

Surviving are her son, Anthony (Cathleen) Lehmann, of Dubuque; three daughters, Kathy Lehmann (Dave Young), of North Springfield, VA, Lisa (Ron) Barnett, of Ames, IA, and Gail (Joseph) McMahon, of Dubuque; nine grandchildren, Sarah (Wes) Pilkington, Michael Lehmann, John (Kelly) Lehmann, Anne Lehmann, Lauren Barnett, and Travis, Martina, Audra, and Micah McMahon; two great grandchildren, Jacob & Ryan Pilkington.
Other survivors include her siblings, Roland “Rollie” (Theresa) Stecklein and Shirley (Gene) Hoffmann of Cascade, IA, Judith (Alan) Westhoff of Portland, OR, and Edmund (Shirley) Stecklein of Monticello, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law Barbara Stecklein of Cascade, IA, Marian Stecklein of Bellevue, IA, Jim Goblirsch of Sleepy Eye, MN, Sr. Mary Lois Lehmann, PBVM, of Dubuque, Florence Jaeger of Holy Cross, IA, Wilma Hogan of Worthington, IA, Ruth McMahon of Manchester, IA, Margaret Lehmann of Farley, IA and Joanne Lehmann of Dubuque, IA.

Marina was preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Mary Eileen Stecklein, Madonna Otting-Tucker, and Elizabeth Jane “Janie” Goblirsch, brothers Clement Stecklein and Lloyd “Bowdy” Stecklein, father and mother-in-law, Anton and Frances Lehmann, brothers and sisters-in-law Wilbur “Bill” Otting, Lavern “Roger” Tucker, Clarence and Verla Lehmann, Merlin Jaeger, William and Anna Mae Lehmann, Bill Hogan, and Joe McMahon.

Thank you to Dr. Ron Schope, Dr. Tom Schreiber and medical teams for all they did for Marina. The family is also grateful for the care and compassion provided by the staff of Eagle Pointe Place. Finally, special thanks to Helen Thielen, her BFF of many years.

Dennis J. Sharkey Sr.

Dennis James Sharkey Sr., 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 18, 2019 at MercyOne in Dubuque.

Joint visitation for Dennis and his brother Gregory will be on Thursday, December 26th, 2019 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a joint service will be held at 7:00 p.m. with Deacon Bill Hickson officiating.

Dennis was born on January 15, 1941 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Charles and Margaret (Allen) Sharkey.

He married Diane Selle and they had a large family together. Dennis owned and operated Sharkey’s Building, Wrecking, Hauling and Catwork for many years. Dennis also operated a salvage yard. He was not a wasteful man and believed in recycling for our future. He was a hardworking man, who loved all of his family, especially his grandchildren. He will be sadly missed.

Dennis is survived by his children, Christina Sharkey, Julie (Frank) Berwanger, Connie Sharkey, Dennis Sharkey II, Becky Sharkey and Wayne Sharkey, twenty grandchildren; his brother Gary Sharkey along with many nieces, nephews and his lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his former wife Diane; his special friend Rose; his baby boy Jeffrey; a son in infancy; and his brothers Michael, Thomas, Timothy, Charles and Gregory.

The family wishes to thank the MercyOne Medical Center staff for their care and comfort of Dennis and his family.

Gregory A. Sharkey

Gregory Allen Sharkey, 69, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 13, 2019 at home.

Joint visitation for Gregory and his brother Dennis will be on Thursday, December 26th, 2019 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a joint service will be held at 7:00 p.m. with Deacon Bill Hickson officiating.

Greg was born on August 7, 1950 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Charles and Margaret (Allen) Sharkey. He recently owned Greg’s Salvage and operated a garbage removal business. Greg also worked with his older brothers at Sharkey’s Building, Wrecking, Hauling and Catwork.

Greg is survived by his son Gregory Harrington Sharkey; his brother Gary Sharkey along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Michael, Thomas, Timothy and Charles.

Alfred Behnke

Alfred “Fritz” Behnke, 91, of Durango, died Friday, December 20, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 7:00 PM Sunday, December 22, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. The Mass of Christian Burial for Alfred “Fritz” will be 10:30 AM Monday, December 23, 2019, at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Alfred was born December 8, 1928, in Durango, IA, the son of Martin and Katherine Krug Behnke. On August 25, 1953, he married Loretta Stecher in SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill. They were blessed with 66 wonderful years together.

He worked 28 years at John Deere Dubuque Works. He also farmed the 150 year old Behnke family farm with pride.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War.

He was a member of Church of the Resurrection, and UAW local 94.

He was a good carpenter and had amazing mechanical skills. He could fix anything broken. We were blessed to have him as a husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great great grandfather, brother and friend.

Survivors include his wife, Loretta, six sons, Bob (LeeAnn) Behnke, Tom (Brenda Ries) Behnke, Mark (Bev) Behnke, Ken (Cindy) Behnke, Jim (Barb) Behnke, Jerry (Margie) Behnke; six daughters, Marilyn (Dan) Kammiller, Carol (Jerry) Backes, Rose (Vern) Welter, Jean (Keith) Oberfoell, Kathy (Jeff) Schmitt, Karen (John) Schmitt; 40 grandchildren; 66 great grandchildren; three great great grandchildren; one sister, Marie Kutsch; in laws, Noel (Pearl) Stecher, Joe (Carol) Stecher, Jeanne Stecher, Joyce (Jerry) Schmitt, and Eileen Fisher.

He was preceded in death by his parents, in laws, Anton and Leona Stecher; sister Marietta (Richard) Heim; sister & brother in laws, Walter Kutsch, Lorraine (Clem) Aird, Mary (Al) Hirsch, Vic (Lou) Stecher, Lawrence Fisher, Loras (Sue) Stecher, three great grandchildren, Matthew Hefel, Miles Fitz, and George Backes.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque, and the Building a Visible Presence Resurrection School Capital Campaign.

A special thank you to Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jessica for their loving care.

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

Marvin J. Weis

Marvin J. Weis, 97, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Marvin will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, December 23, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 10 A.M. Cremation will follow the service and a private burial with military honors will be held at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

Marvin John Weis was born on November 25, 1922 in Springbrook, Iowa to Edwin and Loretta (Yoerger) Weis. His early years were spent attending the Cornelius Country School, and he later attended adult classes receiving his diploma from Maquoketa High School. He then served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was present at Omaha Beach on D-Day. While in the military he was a runner and German translator. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, he worked for Iowa Electric Light and Power Company as a meter reader for many years. He married Doris O. Jessen on July 7, 1948 in Maquoketa, Iowa. She preceded him in death on February 16, 2018.

Marvin was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75, Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether, and a charter member of the Joinerville Boat Club. He enjoyed traveling extensively, dancing, boating and fishing. He was handy with tools and had built several boats through the years.

Those left to honor his memory include sisters and brother-in-law, Dorothy Davis of Metairie, LA, Coletta Littell of Eldridge, IA and Velma and Dale Hovey of Maquoketa, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Doris, and sisters Madonna Weis, Rita Jorgensen and Agatha Derganz.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marvin J. Weis memorial fund has been established.

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

Laurie A. Theill

Laurie A. Theill, age 60 of Kieler, Wisconsin, completed her earthly journey on Thursday, December 19, 2019 at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Laurie’s life, family and friends may gather and visit at her Celebration of Life from 12:00 noon until 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 22, 2019 at Sunset Lanes & Hall, 410 South Main Street, Dickeyville, Wisconsin.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Laurie’s family.

Laurie was born on October 8, 1959, in Postville, Iowa, a daughter to Harold and Teresa (Berns) Heller.  Laurie’s family eventually settled in the Wisconsin area when she was young, and her years have truly been beyond blessed to be continually surrounded by family, friends and farms.  Laurie finds great joy in knowing that some of her own boys are carrying on the family dairy tradition and that her love for the simple things in life, which truly provide real value, can be seen and realized in their daily lives moving forward.  Laurie did begin working off of the farm a few years ago and the friendships she has developed in the food service department at U.W. Platteville are some of the best she has ever known.  Laurie’s appreciation for an honest day’s work, quality not quantity in friendships and a relentless desire to impact the world around her in a positive manner have definitely helped to carry her through some of the toughest days she’s ever known during her battle with cancer.

Laurie’s affinity for the fulfilling life of farming wasn’t simply restricted to all work and no play though.  A little time in the recliner with a good book was always a great way to pass a little time in her mind.  She also thoroughly enjoyed any and every opportunity to soak up the sun with a little sand between her toes.  Laurie found nothing to be quite as relaxing as escaping all of the days concerns when a warm sky overhead was accompanied with a breeze blowing ever so softly in perfect rhythm with the sound of the waves.  The only thing that could possibly top those moments were if her boys and her 2 favorite pups, Snickers and Peaches, were enjoying the opportunities with her.  But, let it be known that Laurie’s greatest joy in this life was her 4 boys.  As a proud mother, she would often be found cooking food and delivering sandwiches to them.  Her commitment to those she loved were relentless and her adoration was absolutely endless!

Laurie strived to keep her earthly journey as uncomplicated as possible, regularly putting others needs well above her own.  Her love for family and friends never wavered and her desire to leave behind a legacy of beauty inside and out were lifelong missions she continually conquered.  We will miss our dear, sweet Laurie more than she could ever know.  The abundance of wonderful memories she leaves behind will help to carry us all through until we meet again.  We definitely seek and find peace in knowing that until that day arrives, our newest heavenly angel will not only be celebrating Christmas in Heaven this year, but will also be resting safely and securely in the loving arms of her Lord and Savior.  Thank you, Laurie for all you so effortlessly taught us through your words, thoughts and actions over your 60 year journey and we are forever grateful that the Lord entrusted you to us while you were here!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Laurie include,

her sons,
Scott (Jackie Busch) Theill, Cuba City, Wisconsin,
Coty Theill, Cuba City, Wisconsin,
Aaron (Melissa) Theill, Cuba City, Wisconsin,
and Marcus (Kennedy Kitelinger) Theill, Cuba City, Wisconsin;

her brothers and sisters,
Connie (Bob) Gallagher, Galena, Illinois,
Jerry (Ann) Heller, Galena, Illinois,
Glenn (Diane) Heller, Galena, Illinois,
Kenny Heller, Platteville, Wisconsin,
Jane (Dave) McCartney, Hazel Green, Wisconsin,
Betty (Dan) Wubben, Hazel Green, Wisconsin,
and Terry (Jeanne) Heller, East Dubuque, Illinois;

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

Laurie was preceded in death by her father, Harold; a niece, Lindsay Wubben-Simonini; and a great-nephew, Henry Heller.

Laurie’s family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and his staff, Laurie’s friends, and especially her adoring sister’s, for all of their professional care, love and support they’ve so kindly and generously given to Laurie, and her boys.  This has been a very difficult battle which Laurie was forced to fight, and she couldn’t have done it without all of the compassionate caregivers who stood by her side the entire time.

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