Obituaries Archive

Marge M. Kruschke

Marge M. Kruschke, age 67, of Belmont, Wisconsin, completed her earthly journey on July 15, 2020, at home, surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Marge’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Marge’s family.

Marge was born on June 24, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, one of five children to Howard G. and Theresa M. (Hitzler) Kruschke.  She eventually found her way into retail and customer service and invested over 34 years with Kmart before spending her last 15 years with Lands End.  Sadly, health concerns forced Marge to make her decision to slow down and spend some quality time with her family, especially her nephew and favorite buddy, Richard Pilkenton.  Over the years, Marge spent much of her free time creating at her craft table and sewing machine.  The beautiful quilts Marge leaves behind are a living testament to the love and attention she gave to all, and everything, in the world around her.  We are broken-hearted today with the realization that we have heard the last witty comment and funny remark from Marge, but we accept that her battle with cancer was longer than imagined and it’s now time for her soul to rest comfortably in the Lord’s loving hands.  We will miss our dear Marge forever and are beyond thankful for every year we were blessed with her presence, love, and joyful spirit.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Marge include,

her siblings,
Carol Pilkenton, Dubuque, Iowa,
Butch (Gina) Kruschke, Maquoketa, Iowa,
Pete (Kellie) Kruschke, Potosi, Wisconsin,
and Lucy Kruschke, Dubuque, Iowa;

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

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, and a niece, Carrie Pilkenton.

Marge’s family would like to thank Agrace Hospice for all of their compassionate care and wonderful support, along with her amazing neighbors, Steve and Kay Austin, for their generosity, attention and commitment to Marge.  May God bless you all for your kindnesses.

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

Suzanne M. Thul

Suzanne Margaret “Suzy” Thul, 91, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, at Mercy One Medical Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, July 18, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, with Rev. James Goerend officiating, where a visitation will be held from 10:00 -11: 15 am. The church requires mask use and social distancing be observed. The family understands if you are unable to attend, please be with us in prayer. The Mass will be live streamed on St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church’s YouTube channel. Interment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., is entrusted with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Suzy was born June 25, 1929 in Dubuque, the daughter of Leo A. and Anna (Pier) Weber. She married William H. “Bill” Thul on October 16, 1948 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on April 26, 2020. Family was the core of Suzy’s life.

Whether it be vacations, dinners or just being together, she cherished the times spent with her children, grandchildren and especially her great grandchildren. Suzy was a soft spoken, extremely kind -hearted and generous woman who loved to go shopping. Her love and warmth will be greatly missed. She was a member of St. Joseph the Worker parish and enjoyed playing bridge and golfing.

Suzanne is survived by her children, Dr. Thomas (Mary) Thul of Bettendorf, IA, Theresa (Vince) O’Neill of Dubuque, IA, Steve (Jeanette) Thul of Eden Prairie, MN and David (Cindy) Thul of Marion, IA; her grandchildren Nick (Tara) Thul, Shawn O’Neill, Molly (Matt) Lynch, Mallory (Karl) Dolter, Jason and Annie Thul, Bryan (Tayler) Thul, Michael and Katie Thul; her great granddaughters, Audrey Thul, Ava Lynch, and Neillia and Rory Sue Dolter.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and her granddaughter, Lindsay Thul.

In lieu of flowers, a Suzanne M. Thul memorial fund has been established c/o 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, IA 52002. The donations will be distributed to Suzy’s favorite charities.

The Thul family wishes to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Bethany Home and Mercy One Medical Center for all their loving care and support and to Pastor Derek for his spiritual support during mom’s last hours.

Jerome Roling

Jerome (Jerry) Roling, 97, of Dubuque, passed away after a long, great life on Wednesday, July 15, 2020 at Stonehill Care Center.

A Private Family Mass of Christian Burial for Jerry will be Monday, July 20, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Rev. Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque where military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.  The mass will be live streamed at 11:00 AM Monday, July 20, 2020, on Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home’s Facebook page and will also be available to view later at www.hskfhcares.com.  A Celebration of Jerry’s life will be at a later date.

Jerry was born on May 23, 1923 in Worthington, IA to John and Catherine (Osterhaus) Roling. Growing up on the farm during the Depression era, the family did many things to earn a living. Cutting timber for railroad ties got Dad an opportunity to run the steam engine. After taking out a fence post, he was soon relieved of that duty! The family lived in the rural Cuba City area for a while as well. When Jerry’s Dad passed, his Mom had enough of the farm life and decided to move to Dubuque. Jerry’s heart wanted to remain on the farm but knew he needed to go with his Mother. He graduated from Senior High School in 1941.

Jerry was then caught up in another world event, World War II. He was very proud to have served in WWII as a Sergeant in the Army 692nd Engineering Special Shop Battalion, in the Pacific. Though Dad did not talk much about it until recently, he had some tales to tell, almost getting court-martialed for not fixing a boat with nails when he was taught to only use screws so the patch would not loosen, being sent to salvage a boat and missing being captured by the Japanese by hours. He also participated in overturning a General’s Jeep in the Philippines right before Christmas to let the General know they were unhappy for not being sent home for months…they were on a boat home New Years Eve! He was honorably discharged in January of 1946.

Jerry married Verna Mae Loecke, from Worthington, IA on October 26, 1948. She preceded him in death due to an illness on December 11, 1950.

Jerry then met and married Lorraine M. Meyer from Bloomington WI on May 16, 1953. Together they enjoyed 67 years of marriage and started a family that grew from 7 children to 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren.

Jerry worked for Caradco in Dubuque and had many production positions but lastly as a saw filer. He learned the job and was very proud that he could sharpen anything in use at the plant, band saws, circle saws and even planer blades. When Caradco moved out of town, he then worked at several other local businesses including John Deere, American Trust Bank, and Jeld-Wen, before retiring.

While working, Jerry was actively involved with the community, having served on the board of directors for Bilt-Well Credit Union. He was a member of Local 937 Carpenters Union as Recording Secretary where he wrote a regular column for the local Dubuque Leader newspaper. He worked bingo events at Holy Ghost Church and was active in the Sacred Heart Catholic Order of Foresters, Marquette Court 811 and gave blood for over 50 years, attaining the 50 gallon milestone.

Besides enjoying his time with family and friends, Jerry enjoyed dancing with Mom and their friends at the Melody Mill and the Fairgrounds, playing cards, gardening, hunting, fishing and telling jokes. As many know, Dad was a prankster as well, stealing a bride, chased by a game warden for “uncased” sticks inside the car, and the world’s best short-sheeter, just remembering a few! He loved to show the grandkids card tricks and then teach them how to do the trick. Many have enjoyed the sweet dandelion wine Dad made from flowers picked by his kids and Mom on most Mother’s Days! Dad touched many lives and we will all remember him for his fun-loving and helpful character and being a great Father.

Jerry is survived by his wife Lorraine, of 67 years, and their children, Daniel (Jackie) Roling of Highland WI, Denis (Sue) Roling, Carl (Janet) Roling of Dubuque, Kathy (Greg) Roberts of Des Moines IA, Donna (Steve) Levin of Cincinnati OH, and Paula (Jay) Richard of Kieler WI. Grandchildren Mandy (Brent) Garraghty, Ben (Billie) Roling, Matthew (Erin) Roling, Kathryn (Nathan) Galliart, Christina (John) Atkinson,  Jennifer (Carl) Koenig, Nick (Lindsey) Roberts, Sarah (Josh) Judisch, Geoffrey Roberts, Hannah Levin, Nathaniel Richard, Caitlan Richard and Jacob Richard, as well as 22 great grandchildren. Also surviving is his sister-in-law, Josephine Roling and many nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by a son, Thomas Jerome, a sister, Francis O’Meara, and his brothers – Ray, Lawrence, Vince, Gilbert and Leander.

Jerry’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Kristen Nelson, Hospice of Dubuque personnel and the staff and nurses at Stonehill Care Center for their tender loving care of Jerry.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or Stonehill Care Center in his name.

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

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

James J. Bushman

James Joseph “Jimbo” Bushman, 81, of Dubuque passed away Sunday July 12, 2020 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Private graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2020 at Mount Olivet Cemetery, with full military honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard and American Legion Post #6. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements

Jim was born on December 16, 1938 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Joseph and Mae (Gerleman) Bushman.

Jim and Barbara Coates were united in marriage on May 9, 1964 and shared 56 years together. He served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1960 in Korea. After his service to our Nation he returned to Dubuque and began his career at Dubuque John Deere Tractor Works. He worked there for 30 years retiring in 1996 and was a member of the United Auto Workers Local #94.

Jim loved to spend time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren. He also enjoyed spending time at “The Shop” with his son Roger and his brothers. There was always a project going on, a tractor to be worked on, a construction project, and of course cutting grass.

Those left to cherish Jim’s memory include his wife Barbara; his son Roger (Laura) Bushman, his daughter Dana (Dustin) Rector, both of Dubuque. Grandchildren Kylie Rector (Jesse Schmitt & daughter Avery), Kendra Bushman, Kameron Rector, and Kolton Rector;  a great grandson Connor Schmitt; his siblings Richard Bushman, Joseph (Sandy) Bushman, Gary Bushman, David Bushman, Roseann (Pete) Wilson, Steve (Sue) Bushman, Gene Bushman, and Mary (James) York; a sister-in-law Diane Bushman; brothers-in-law Ronnie (Bonnie) Coates and Bob (Lisa) Coates; sister-in-law Sue Coates along with nieces and nephews and Jim’s many friends and neighbors.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Howard; and his mother and father-in-law Delmont and Dorothy Coates and a brother-in-law Richard Coates.

Memorials in Jim’s name may be gives to the Key West Fire Department.

Jim’s family would like to thank, Dr. Matthew Kirkendall and his nurse Kate, Dr. Ron Iverson and the nurses and staff at Unity Point Finley Hospital especially the ICU unit for all the wonderful care they gave to Jim.

Jerome J. Kaiser

Jerome Joseph Kaiser, 85, of Hazel Green, Wisconsin was called to his heavenly home on Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Mercy One-Dubuque Medical Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 18, 2020 at St. Joseph’s Church at Sinsinawa, WI, with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Private family burial will be in the church cemetery at a later date.
Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17 and from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Saturday, July 18 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the family would prefer people to wear masks and to observe social distancing protocol during their time with the family.

Jerome was born on December 17, 1934 in Dubuque, IA, the son of George and Oliva (Berning) Kaiser. Three of the most important things in Jerome’s life were his faith, his family, and farming. Jerome was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sinsinawa. He devoted his work life to being one of the most meticulous and dedicated farmers in the rural Sinsinawa area. Jerome was very proud of his dairy herd and preparing the fields for his crops.

On November 9, 1963, he married his sweetheart of a city girl and they continued to share their love of life with their five children. They were married for 56 years.

Jerome filled his retirement years enjoying his garden, his yard, and spending time with his growing family. His homemade applesauce was a family favorite and everyone took their turns helping him make it.

Those left to cherish Jerome’s memory include his loving wife, Lois (Kress) Kaiser; his children, Steve (Kathy) Kaiser, Dennis (Katrina) Kaiser, Janet (Kirk) Mack, Diane (Will) Pearce, and Karen Kaiser; his 13 grandchildren, Holly (Matt) Clendenen, Ryan (Tara) Kaiser, Adam (Brooke) Kaiser, Stacy (Tom) Pickel, Aaron (Mallory) Kaiser, Josh (Kerry) Pearce, Jessica (Tyler) Speth, Melissa Pearce, Becca Pearce, Courtney Mack, Nicholas Kaiser, Kailee Kaiser and Caden Kaiser; his 14-great-grandchildren, Carter, Kennedy, & Kellen Clendenen, Callie, Charlotte, & Keston Kaiser, Charlee, Hayden, Dexter, & Archer Kaiser, Kobe, Ezra, & Harper Pickel, and Everett Kaiser; his siblings, Norbert Kaiser and Germaine (James) Hying; sister-in-law Myrtle Kaiser; in laws, Jim (Mary) Kress, Tom (Kathy) Kress, Dan (Gina) Kress, Jayne (Dick) Breitbach, & Rick Kress.

Jerome was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, Ireneaus Kaiser, Jeanette Schroeder; brother-in-law Harvey Schroeder, sister-in-law Grace Kaiser; in laws, Joseph and Mary Kress, sister-in-law Shelly Kress; niece Linda (Kaiser) Sue and nephews, Jason & Jamie Kress.

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

Gary J. Lakeman

Gary J. Lakeman, 71 of Dubuque, Iowa, died on Monday, July 13, 2020, at Stonehill Health Center.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday, July 17, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a service will be held at 4:00 p.m. with Rev. Andy Upah officiating.

Gary was born on March 6, 1949, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Joseph A. Lakeman and Calista Skahill. Graduated from Wahlert High School in 1967. Gary was a painter for over 40 years and was proud to share that he was a founding member of the Jacques Cousteau Society.

He was an avid bird watcher in later years of life from his kitchen table, enjoyed traveling and gardening but mostly spending his time with family and friends especially watching his great grands growing up and playing sports. He was a man of many wisecracking jokes, big hugs and was always up to go watch his favorite hockey team the Dubuque Fighting Saints.

Gary is survived by his life partner of almost 20 years, Sharon Winner. His stepchildren Michael Edward Lyons (Helene), Douglas (Katie Kupferschmidt) Winner, and Kimberly (John) Nimsgern. Grandchildren Natascha (Sepp) Lyons, twins Leon and Mackenzie (Dennis) Lyons, Andrew and Megan Nimsgern, Blake Winner, Austin, and Madelyn Thomas, Alexis and Alissa Kupferschmidt. In-Laws Karen (Craig) Repp, John (Amanda) Rankins. Great Granddaughters Ruby Jean Lyons and Casey Lynn Lyons. Nieces and Nephews Sherry (Chuck) Kaiser, Tom (Jessica) Hill, Sandra Sheppard, Timothy (Pat) Puetsch, Philip (Jennifer) Puetsch, Malinda (Terry) Sahm, Melissa Peters. And many great-nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his late wife of 28 years, Barbra Jean Larson Lyons whom he married in 1973; his sister Karan Ann Weber; his parents Joseph Lakeman and Calista Skahill, and a step-granddaughter Hanna Thomas.

Sister Lou Ann (Aquilena) Kilburg, OSF

Sister Lou Ann (Aquilena) Kilburg, OSF, 76, of Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed Monday, July 13, 2020 at Mercy One Hospital, Dubuque

A private Rite of Final Commendation will be held at the Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 17, 2020. A Memorial Mass will be held at Mount St. Francis Chapel at a later date. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

She was born on September 12, 1943 in Bellevue, IA, the daughter of Nick and Frances (Clasen) Kilburg.

Sister Lou Ann entered the Sisters of St. Francis on September 3, 1961 and made final profession of vows on August 12, 1969. Sister received her master’s degree in Religious Studies at Mundelein College in Chicago, IL. She ministered as an educator in Iowa at Monticello and Holy Ghost and St. Mary’s, Dubuque and in Illinois at Niles. Sister also served in pastoral ministry among the Lakota people in South Dakota at Mission, Parmelee, St. Francis, Okreek, and Lower Brule. In Clements, Minnesota and Sabula, Iowa she served as Pastoral Administrator. She was most recently a caregiver at Home Instead Senior Care in Dubuque.

Sister is survived by her sisters Norma (David) Sieverding and Judy Moran; brothers Arlin (Bernice) Kilburg and Donald (Viola) Kilburg; sister-in-law Mary Kilburg; nieces and nephews; and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Leon Kilburg; and her brother-in-law Michael Moran.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Betty J. Van Zile

Betty Jane Van Zile, 94 of Bethany Home passed away on July 12, 2020 at Bethany Home.

Private family services were held at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial was in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Betty was born on November 18, 1925 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of William and Ruth (Jungwirth) Tindell. She married Herbert J. Van Zile on October 13, 1945 at the Church of the Nativity in Dubuque.

Betty enjoyed time with her family and was a loving homemaker. She also enjoyed fishing, music, playing cards, reading, traveling, baking and cheering on the Chicago Cubs.

She is survived by her children Joyce (Boo) Splinter, of Dubuque, Laura Blondell, of Ankeny, IA, Joan Plotner, of Johnston, IA, Becky Ernst, of Sioux Falls, SD, Jeff (Christine Sikula) Van Zile, of Dubuque, Mark (Lisa) Van Zile, of Oak Hills, CA, Marcia (Steve) Christ, of East Dubuque, IL, Christine (Fred) Scharff, of Cuba City, WI, Diane (Dave) Altfillisch, of Galena, IL. Twenty-four grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren; her brother Bill (Charlotte) Tindell and her sister Judy Gourley.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Herbert; daughter Pam Pfab and two sisters Ruth Feaker and Alta Mae Tindell.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Moore, Medical Associates, the staff and administration at Bethany Home, Hospice of Dubuque and to everyone who loved and cared for our mother.

Randall J. Brade

Randall Jay Brade, 61, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2020, at the Regional Medical Center in Manchester.

He was born on November 20, 1958, in Dubuque, the son of Leonard and Irene (Cook) Brade. Randy was raised in Dubuque and graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School.

On August 9, 1980, Randy was united in marriage to Anna Mastin in Dubuque. One daughter was born to this union. The family resided in Manchester. Randy worked at the Dubuque Historical Society until the time of his disability.

Randy liked going to the casinos and playing Bingo. He enjoyed fishing and camping. Randy had a green thumb when it came to raising plants. Most of all, Randy loved his family and enjoyed spending time with them.

Survivors include his wife of 39 years, Anna Brade of Manchester; his daughter, Amanda (Eric) Hartke of Manchester; two grandchildren, Brady and Erica Hartke; three brothers, Ed (Penny) Brade of Sapulpa, Oklahoma, Dennis Brade of Dubuque; and Michael (Grace) Brade of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; his sister, Robin (Michael Kluck) Goetzinger of Dubuque; and several nieces and nephews.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Irene Brade; his parents-in-law, William and Carol Mastin; one brother, Leonard in infancy; and a nephew, Josh Mastin.

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

Visitation is 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call after 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home on Thursday. Funeral Service is at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, July 16, 2020, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Interment: will take place at Oakland Cemetery in Manchester, Iowa.

Due to COVID-19 concerns, wearing a mask is strongly encouraged.

Robert L. Kennedy Jr.

Robert L. “Bob” Kennedy Jr., 55, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday morning, July 11, 2020 at his home.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Robert Lee Kennedy Jr. was born on July 24, 1964 in Davenport, Iowa, to Robert Lee and Judith Rae (Stoner) Kennedy Sr. He was a 1982 graduate of Calamus High School and had attended Clinton Community College. He married Angela Jean Burkey on March 21, 1985 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

“Bob” was owner and operator for many years of Digital Concept in Maquoketa working as a software programmer and engineer. He then worked at Family Dollar in Maquoketa for 15 years.

“Bob” loved working with and collecting model trains. Additionally, he was an avid gun collector.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Angela Kennedy of Baldwin, IA; children, Staff Sergeant Robert Lee (Staff Sergeant Jordan) Kennedy III of Oahu, HI, Zachary John Kennedy of Maquoketa, IA, and Austin James Kennedy of Iowa City, IA; his mother, Judith Kennedy of Baldwin, IA; a sister Judie (Tom) Moore of Maquoketa, IA; and 2 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his father.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Robert L. “Bob” Kennedy memorial fund has been established.

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

Reverend Richard L. Schaefer

Reverend Richard Lee Schaefer moved onto his new heavenly priest assignment on July 9, 2020.

Father Richard Schaefer (or Father Dick, as he was fondly known) was born in Bellevue, Iowa on September 10, 1942, a son of Albert and Eileen (Schilling) Schaefer. Raised on an eastern Iowa farm, Fr. Richard regularly recounted those experiences.

Richard was a student and writer of many talents. After attending St. Joseph’s Elementary School, he graduated as valedictorian of his class at Marquette High School, while also lettering in basketball and baseball. He was also very successful in the State of Iowa Speech Contest. As an entrant in a literary essay contest sponsored by the Rural Electric Cooperative, he was awarded a trip to Washington, D.C. Fr. Richard wrote columns for the Marquette News portion of the Bellevue Herald, leading to a summer job at the newspaper covering sports.

A man for all seasons, while attending Loras College in Dubuque and graduating magna cum laude, he participated in Vested Choir, was on the debate team for three years, won the annual Loras College Essay Contest, wrote for The Spokesman, the college literary journal, and received a minor letter in track.

Fr. Richard studied for the priesthood at the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium receiving an M.A. and S.T.B. in Theology. There he served as historian and was the first literary editor of the International Technological Journal, Louvain Studies. His ordination to become a priest occurred July 13, 1968 when he was installed by Archbishop James J. Byrne at Dubuque’s St. Raphael Cathedral.

His first assignment in 1968 was at St. Anthony’s Parish in Dubuque, teaching elementary religion and leading the Catholic Schools of Dubuque junior high school athletic program. The position of responsibility for liturgical or worship music enabled him to introduce modern music into religious services. Father Richard also taught at Wahlert High School.
With a transfer to St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and Student Center at Iowa State University in Ames, his contributions were a part of the four-person team campus ministry. Assistance was also provided to Msgr. Daniel Tarrant, to write and develop liturgies used across the country.

Fr. Dick went from St. Thomas Aquinas parish to studying theology at Marquette University in Milwaukee where he lived and worked in an inner-city parish. Upon completion of the studies in Milwaukee, he returned to Loras College, to teach theology and religious studies. He also led a Catholic women’s book club. Rev. Richard served under five bishops as the Censor; or reviewer of whether a book’s publication would be certified with a “Nihil Obstat”, the confirmation there was no doctrinal objection.

Rev. Schaefer served for years as Medical Chaplain for Mercy Hospital, in Dubuque, on call 24 hours for counseling and tending to the needs of patients of all faiths. This was perhaps his most challenging and rewarding assignment. Counseling to those in critical medical need requires a special calling. Fr. Richard was blessed with this gift.
More recently, Fr. Richard celebrated Mass regularly at Hawkeye Care Center and Bethany Home, both Dubuque retirement homes. Fr. Schaefer served as a fill-in pastor for the retirement home in Galena, St. Mary’s parish in East Dubuque, St. Michael’s, St. Mary’s parishes in Galena, and Holy Trinity in Scales Mound.

One of his passions was the support of the Right to Life movement and thus he participated in many events to keep the public aware of this issue. Fr. Richard served for many years on the Board of the Dubuque Area Right to Life Committee and traveled to Washington D.C. for several January nationwide rallies.

Through his over 50 years as a Catholic priest, Fr. Richard performed countless religious services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and counseling sessions.

Fr. Richard loved sports, especially baseball. Father was a Dodger fan since he first saw “The Jackie Robinson Story” at the age of eight. He was a walking sports encyclopedia and frequently shared information regarding Dodger players, key baseball events and lore. Father had opposing view insight, provided deep thought to complex issues, and possessed a whimsical sense of humor. He loved to tell jokes including puns and especially those he made up. Fr. Richard was fond of inventing combinations of words, such as “gladitude.” His huge collection of every imaginable style of hat matched his quipped words; “the world does not have enough hats or puns.”

Rev. Richard Schaefer’s care, memory of people and events, his writings, dedication to the Catholic faith, love of family and support for others were outstanding.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts; Rosemary (Schaefer) Salm, Sister Julaine (Eleanor) Schaefer, Mary (Schilling) Kueter, Dorothy (Schilling) Meyer, and Bertha (Schilling) Hallahan, uncles Rev. Aidan (Orville) Schaefer, Floyd Schaefer, and Lawrence Schilling.

Father Schaefer faithfully fulfilled the devotion to his ministry and will be missed by his many friends, by his siblings Joe (Carol) Schaefer, Larry (Kay) Schaefer, Bob (Kathy) Schaefer, Tom (Margaret) Schaefer, Jim (Carol) Schaefer, and Mary (Ron) Grecco; nieces and nephews Amy (Ken) Akers, Sarah Schaefer and her husband Brian Pierce, Brian (Liz) Schaefer, Carrie (Patrick) Weston, Michael Schaefer, Katie (Brad) Stapleton, Megan (Matthew) Murphy, Katie (March) Hom, Mark (Lauren) Schaefer, Valerie (Jason) Lawler, Pam Schaefer, aunt Bernice (Kueter) Ehlers, uncles Russell (Joan) Schilling, and Lester Schilling, cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grand-nephews.

A memorial service is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Father Richard often said, “There will be chili and brownies in heaven.” All know Rev. Richard L. Schaefer is now enjoying that heavenly feast.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Kandace K. Carr

Kandace K. “Kandy” Carr, 60, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020, at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 1:30 P.M., Monday, July 20, 2020 at Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Monday, July 20, 2020 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Kandace Kae Witt was born on March 23, 1960 in Jackson County, Iowa, to Bernard Eugene “Bud” and Dorla (Harrington) Witt. She was a 1978 graduate of Andrew High School and later received her Certified Nurses Aid Certificate from Clinton Community College and her Certified Medication Aid Certificate from Scott Community College. She married Greg Carr and to this union two children were born, Anthony and Kayla.

“Kandy” had first worked at Rockwell Collins in Bellevue. She then worked as a CNA and CMA at area nursing homes including Briarwood Care Center, Maquoketa Care Center, Crestridge Nursing Home and Clover Ridge Place, all in Maquoketa. She had also worked as a cashier at Fareway in Maquoketa for several years.

“Kandy” had served as a Jackson County Fair Board member for many years. She loved horses and rodeos, driving around the countryside of Jackson County, was an avid bowler in Maquoketa and Bellevue, and especially enjoyed spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Anthony “Tony” (Amanda) Carr of Maquoketa, IA, and Kayla (Justin) Hopson of Maquoketa, IA; 2 grandchildren, Isabel and Ethan Hopson; and brothers, Rick (Kathy) Witt of Peyton, CO, Dennis (Nancy) Witt of Clinton, IA, and Jeff Witt of Preston, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and an infant brother Kevin Witt.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kandace K. “Kandy” Carr memorial fund has been established.

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

Sharon A. Cate

Sharon A. Cate, 74, of Asbury, passed away on Saturday, March 21, 2020 following a sudden illness while at her home in Mesa, Arizona. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 10, 2020 at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, where due to the Covid-19 pandemic, masks will be kindly required. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Family and friends are welcome to join in celebrating Sharon’s life at the Dubuque Shooting Society, 10380 US-52N in Dubuque immediately following the Interment. Sharon’s family will greet guests to share memories and stories from about 2 to 6 pm. The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. is entrusted with arrangements.

Sharon was born on May 30th, 1945 in Dubuque to William and Dolores (Crimmins) Hendricks.  She grew up in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1963.  She married her high school sweetheart, Robert Cate, on March 21, 1964; and died while holding his hand on their 56th wedding anniversary.  Her heart was always in Dubuque where she loved to spend time with her sisters and friends.  But a piece of it belonged to Arizona, as well, where she enjoyed her annual “five month vacation” with Bob at their home in Mesa.  She was forever grateful for the life she shared with Bob and frequently said they were having the best time of their lives over the last several years.

Sharon’s greatest treasure in life was spending time with her family.  She could not have been more proud of the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren.  Her faith was a pillar in her life and she was a longtime member of the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque.  Sharon was an avid card player who could often be found at a table with good friends playing Euchre or Hand and Foot.  She spent much of her time reflecting and meditating in her gardens and loved to plant flowers that attracted butterflies.  Her Wednesdays were reserved for Los Aztecas where she regularly met up with her lifelong friends for lunch; and usually stayed to reminisce about good memories over margaritas until dinner time.

People left to honor her memory include her devoted husband, Robert; three children, Jeff (Javier Pedraza) of Dubuque, Mike (Kari) of Blanco, TX, Tim (Shelly) of Argyle, TX; five grandchildren, Nikita, Michaela, Gabriella, Daniel, and Cooper; one great-granddaughter Khloe; three sisters, Janet (John) Young, Sheila (John) Walsh, and Mary Jo (Jerry) Klinkhammer, all of Dubuque; one brother, Bob (Kathy) Hendricks of Tama, IA; her brother-in-law, Jay (Dawn) Cate of Honey Creek, IA;  four sisters-in-law, Carol (Fritz) Boland of Boscobel, WI, Brenda Naser of Fort Calhoun, NE, Valerie Roll of Marion, IA, and Karen Scheckel of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; her father and mother-in-law, Mason and Florine (Roussel) Cate; her daughter, Danielle Cate; two brothers, Don Hendricks and Terry Hendricks; her brother and sister-in-law Ronald and Mary Cate; her sister and brother-in-law Nancy and Rollin Duensing; three nephews, David Hendricks, Chris Young, and Terry Hunt; and a niece, Anna Weitz.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Resources Unite of Dubuque or Earth Angels of Dubuque.  Sharon felt strongly about both of their missions to help others in our community in times of need.

Kathleen M. Stender

Kathleen M. “Kathy” Stender, 73, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Saturday morning, July 11, 2020, at Westwing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10 A.M., Thursday, July 16, 2020, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2020, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

Kathleen Marie Widel was born on March 13, 1947 in Van Nuys, California to Paul and Mary (Shultz) Widel. She graduated from Myrtle Creek High school in Myrtle Creek, Oregon. She married Ronald Dale Stender on April 9, 1966 in Monmouth, Iowa. People said they were too young and it wouldn’t work, but it did for 54 wonderful years. Three children were born to this union, Steven, John and Dianna.

Upon moving to Iowa, “Kathy” started working for Haye’s Café and the Green Mill Café. For over 30 years she had been employed with the Midland Community School District working as cook, teacher’s aide and custodian. She was a mentor to many staff and students and was loved by all.

“Kathy” was a member of the Monmouth Faith United Methodist Church. She enjoyed crocheting, baking and had decorated hundreds of cakes. She loved her family and grandchildren more than anything.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Ronald Stender of Monmouth, IA; children, Steve (Kathy) Stender of Washington, IA, John (Jennifer) Stender of Baldwin, IA, and Dianna (Jeremy) Dunlavey of Ankeny, IA; 8 grandchildren, Ty, Derek and Curtis Stender, Sydney and Lane Stender, Makenna, Emma and Michael Dunlavey; and siblings, Karen (Tom) Schwenker of Maquoketa, IA, Mary Smith of Atlanta, GA, Paul (Millie) Widel of Maquoketa, IA, Elizabeth (J.R.) Lind of Camanche, IA, and Janice (Paul) Russell of DeWitt, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her father-in-law and mother-in-law Carlyle and Nellie Stender.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Kathleen M. “Kathy” Stender memorial fund has been established.

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

Joseph M. Rollinger

Joseph M. “Joe” Rollinger, 83, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday evening, July 10, 2020, at Westwing Place in DeWitt, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating Joe’s life will be held at 2 P.M., Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa. Social distancing guidelines will be followed. A private family visitation was held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place.

Joseph Michael Rollinger was born on September 5, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Henry and Martha (Foley) Rollinger. He was a 1954 graduate of Maquoketa High School and then served his country in the U.S. Army receiving an honorable discharge. He married Janet L. Riley on February 14, 1956 in Maquoketa, Iowa. To this union five children were born, Jane, Jill, Joel, Jay and John.

Upon returning home after serving his country, Joe worked as a licensed barber for ten years at Stuckel Barbershop in Maquoketa. He then went to college and received an Associate Degree from Clinton Community College which enabled him to receive his next job working for the Iowa Department of Public Safety as a dispatcher and station manager at Maquoketa, Atlantic and Cedar Rapids. He retired in 1989.

Joe was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa and the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Club. He delivered Meals-On-Wheels in Maquoketa for many years, as well as participated in several Peace Pipe Players productions. He loved his family and attending his children and grandchildren’s events of all kinds. He logged many hours on the bleachers. He also liked motorcycles and enjoyed riding around town and to and from work when in Maquoketa.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Janet Rollinger of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jane (John) Cook of Boone, IA, Jill (David) Files of Carmi, IL, Joel (Joni) Rollinger of Decorah, IA, Jay (Khristy) Rollinger of Bettendorf, IA, and John (Kim) Rollinger of Eldridge, IA; a sister, Joan McClimon of Dyersville, IA; 12 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren (with one on the way).

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Donald and Jerry Rollinger, and sisters Kay Keil and Teresa Welch.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Joseph M. “Joe” Rollinger memorial fund has been established.

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.