Obituaries Archive

Gloria M. Marolf

Gloria M. Marolf, 80, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Monday, November 18, 2019 at her home in Farley, Iowa from an unexpected Non Hodgkins Lymphoma Cancer diagnosis.

Visitation for Gloria will be held from 3 to 8 p.m., Sunday, November 24, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m. and the Farley American Legion Auxiliary will meet at 4:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m., Monday, November 25, 2019 at the funeral home in Farley. Mass of Christian burial for Gloria will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, November 25, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa.

Gloria was born February 9, 1939 in Dyersville, Iowa, daughter of Bernard and Leona (Kirsch) White. She received her education from Xavier High School in Dyersville, IA and also attended Loras College in Dubuque. On September 6, 1958 she was united in marriage to Ralph L. Marolf at the Basilica St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Dyersville, Iowa. He preceded her in death on November 16, 2009. Together the couple owned and operated Farley Oil for many years, and celebrated 51 years of marriage.

She was a member of the St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, IA, a member of the Farley Garden Club and a member of the Farley American Legion Auxiliary. Her retirement years were spent planning her next adventure with her friends from Destinations Unlimited. Her day to day endeavors included taking care of her home and yard which she did impeccably.

She is survived by two children, Steven (Diann) Marolf of Lenexa, KS, and Lynn (Joe) Smith of Billings, MT; 4 grandchildren, Kaitie Marolf (fiance, Evan Sanders) and Jared Marolf (Caitlynn Noltie), Bridger (Kalli) Smith and Kennedy (Daniel) Bowen; 2 great grandchildren Amorie and Everly Smith and Bowen boy on the way; and one brother, Allan (Dee) White of Guttenberg, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Scott Raymond Marolf on July 22, 1993; one sister, Ethel (Dick) Jacque; and one brother, Vernon (Mary Lou) White.

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

Marion T. Connolly

Marion Theresa Connolly, 92, of Dubuque, died Monday, November 18, 2019, at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM Friday, November 22, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road.  Additional visitation hours will also be held from 9:00 AM until 10:15 AM Saturday, November 23, 2019, at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marion will be 10:30 AM Saturday, November 23, 2019, at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in St. Clement Cemetery in Bankston.

Marion was born May 26, 1927, in Lore, IA, the daughter of John and Theresa Schiessl Brehm. On May 4, 1949, she was united in marriage to Wilbert A. “Bert” Connolly at Holy Family Catholic Church at New Melleray. Bert and Marion raised their children on the family dairy farm in Bankston.  Bert died November 6, 2010.

She was a member of Church of the Resurrection, Power of Prayer, Catholic Daughters of America and the Resurrection Prayer Group. She was a member and a CCD teacher at St. Clement’s Catholic Church and volunteered at Finley Hospital for many years.

Marion’s foundation for her life was faith and family.  She loved attending Mass and praying the Rosary.  Her faith and spiritual guidance served to mentor her children and grandchildren.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed sewing, gardening and canning.  She was a wonderful cook and baker.   She treasured the time spent with her family and friends, and the memories created over the years through frequent family gatherings.

Those left to cherish her memory include her nine children, Diane Rehak of Dubuque, Eugene (Debra) Connolly of Farley, IA, Dennis (Susie) Connolly of Terrell, TX, Jerry (Nancy) Connolly of Phoenix, AZ, Rosie (Mike) Denlinger of Dubuque, Julie (Cal “Corky”) Phillips of Platteville, WI, Bill Connolly of Bankston, Joyce (Joel) DeSpain of Madison, WI, and Rick (Beth) Connolly of Montfort, WI; 38 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; one brother, Paul Brehm of Dubuque; three sisters, Kay (John) Gaul of Peosta, Clara Ernst and Rita Ernst, both of Bellevue; two brothers-in law, Tom Smith of Caledonia, IL, and Francis Connolly of Epworth; and two sisters-in-law, Esther Brehm and Betty Connolly, both of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Earl Brehm and William Brehm, and three sisters, Helen Steffen, Margaret Brehm, and Theresa Smith.

The Connolly family wishes to express their gratitude to Bethany Home, Dr. Liaboe and the nurses at Finley Hospital for their kindness and loving care of Marion.

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

Jeanne A. Fleege

Jeanne A. Fleege, 93, of Menominee, IL passed away at 3:05 a.m. Monday, November 18, 2019 at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating.  Burial will be in the Church Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish and St. Ann’s Society rosary will be recited at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday. Friends may also call from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Thursday at the Church.

Jeanne was born on January 23, 1926 at Faribault, Minnesota, the daughter of Ralph and Eva (Nusbaum) Molm.  She was united in marriage to Melvin W. Fleege on May 10, 1960 at St. Victor’s Church, Monroe, Wisconsin.  He preceded her in death on August 22, 1996.

She was previously a writer for the East Dubuque Register. Jeanne was quite active with assistance for the Indians of the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota and the African Americans in Marks, Mississippi.

She was a member of Nativity BVM Parish and its St. Ann’s Society.

Surviving are four children, Marie C. (Victor) Olszewski, Jr. of Machesney Park, IL, Barbara A. (Dale) Daugherty of Evansville, Indiana, Mark J. (Paula Leute) Fleege of Menominee, IL and Dale E. (Lori) Fleege of Roscoe, IL; four grandchildren, Rachel (Bryan) Johnson, Adam Olszewski, Madelon Smith and Matthew Fleege, and one expected great grandchild; her aunt Helen Nusbaum of Faribault, MN; her sister-in-laws, Sue Molm of Ponte Vedra, FL and  Evie Fleege of Menominee, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Dick & Betty Fleege of Summerfield, FL; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her siblings, John Molm and Patricia San Soucie; and in-laws, Harry (Lorraine) Fleege, Bud (Rosie) Fleege, Ursula Fleege and Robert “Bob” Fleege.

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

Willis E. Schroeder

Willis E. “Bill” Schroeder, 89, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Sunday, November 17, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.
Visitation for Bill will be held from 2 to 8 p.m., Thursday, November 21, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where the Farley American Legion will meet in a body at 7:00 p.m.

Private graveside services for Bill will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 22, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa with full Military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.

Bill was born September 2, 1930 in Jackson County , Iowa, son of William and Louisa (Schlesch) Schroeder. He received his education in the Jackson County Country schools. On June 21, 1952 he was united in marriage to Mary Ellen Streif at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. She preceded him in death on January 29, 2009. He operated Tavern’s alongside his wife in Epworth, Farley and later in Bankston, Iowa.

He was a Navy Veteran, having served in the Korean War. He was a member of the Farley American Legion Post #656.

He is survived by his fourteen children, Bill (Katie) Hansen of CA, Pam Fern and Randy (Anne) Schroeder both of Farley, IA, Sharon (Al) Grisanti of FL, Bob Schroeder and Steve (Sharon) Schroeder both of Farley, IA, Mike (Linda) Schroeder of Dyersville, IA, Mark (Linda) Schroeder of Dubuque, IA, Nancy (Tom) Brown of MO, Pat (Ann) Schroeder of Zwingle, IA, Darla Hermsen of MO, Tom (Janette) Schroeder of Cedar Rapids, IA, Brian Schroeder of FL, and Sam (Lolita) Schroeder of Phoenix, AR; 26 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 1 great great grandchild; siblings; one sister, Willy Schuller of Dubuque, IA; and one sister-in-law, Joyce (Tony) Callahan of Marion, IA.
He is preceded in death by parents, his wife, two sons-in-law, Mark Hermsen and Mark Fern; three great grandchildren; four brothers, Melvin, Leslie, Eldon and Milo; and 2 sisters, Sally Trowbridge and Norie Felderman.

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

The family would like to thank the staff of Hawkeye Care Center for all the wonderful care given to Bill.

Robert J. Reding Sr.

Robert J. “Bob” Reding Sr., age 83, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:15 a.m., on Monday, November 18, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center.  To honor Bob’s life, funeral services will be held at 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, November 21, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Deacon Bill Biver officiating.  To celebrate Bob’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:30 p.m., until the time of services at 7:30 p.m., on Thursday, November 21, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery on Friday at 11:00 a.m.

Bob was born on March 5, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Carrol J. and Mildred (Hafeman) Reding.

Bob was a lifelong resident of Dubuque, who was united in marriage to the love of his life, Florence Graham, on June 23, 1956.  Bob and Florence would be blessed with 62 years of marriage and 4 children together before she was called home on February 11, 2019.  Bob was employed with the John Deere Dubuque Works as an inspector for 28 years, but was also the proud owner of Bob’s Antiques, his true passion.  Bob loved anything that had to do with Dubuque history and was an avid collector of coins and all sorts of memorabilia.  Many items he donated to places throughout the city of Dubuque for people to enjoy for generations to come.  He was a longtime member of the Dubuque County Historical Society and the Local 94 Retirees.  When he wasn’t out looking for treasures to add to his already extensive antique collection, and the weather was nice, Bob could be found trying his luck fishing down by the river.  He also enjoyed feeding the birds and would spend hours watching them.  His family was no doubt the most important part of Bob’s life, and during the last few years he looked forward to playing Texas Hold’Em with them on Sundays at the house.  He also enjoyed trying his luck down at the casino with Florence.  Bob was definitely a people person who always looked forward to company coming over to visit, entertaining them for hours with his stories.  We are sad at the loss of our wonderful dad, grandpa, great-grandpa and brother, but take some comfort in the knowledge that he is now free of all of his health issues and reunited with his beloved Florence for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish Bob’s memory include

his children,
Bob (Mary Jo) Reding Jr., Dubuque, IA,
Ron (Chrysanne) Reding, Dubuque, IA,
Laure (Rick) Ward, Dubuque, IA
and Sue (Don) Dietz, Dubuque, IA;

his 9 grandchildren;
Amy (John) Venema, Aaron (Rebecca) Reding, James (Laura) Ward, Eric Ward, Angela (Tony) Miller, Adam (Angie) Hagensten, Amanda (Chris) Thill, Samantha (Brian) Brunat and Victoria Dietz;

his 13 great-grandchildren;

and his siblings,
Richard (Ann) Reding, Buffalo, IA,
Lois Heinisch, Chicago Ridge, IL
and Bonnie Newbauer, Chicago Ridge, IL.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Florence Reding; a great-granddaughter, Sophia; a sister, Carol Clark; and 2 brothers-in-law, Edward Heinish and William Newbauer.

Bob’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, CNAs and medical staff of Grand River, Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind and caring support.

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

Melissa Jo Wolney

Melissa Jo “Missy” Wolney, 51, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2019, at her home in Lost Nation, Iowa.

A private family graveside service and burial will be held at a later date at Canton, Iowa Cemetery. There is no public visitation or service planned. Cremation has taken place. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Melissa Jo Flenker was born on August 6, 1968 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Richard Wayne and Trudy Ann (Williams) Flenker. She attended Maquoketa schools, and graduated from high school in Honolulu, Hawaii. She married Brian Wolney, and they divorced. She later married Jesus Perez.

Missy was a caregiver and had worked as a CNA for several years. She enjoyed playing Bingo, reading, spending time with her grandchildren, and going to the farm.

Those left to honor her memory include her mother and step-father, Trudy and Gayle Hart of Maquoketa, IA; children, Nicole Wolney of TN, Nathan Wolney of TN, Jessica Perez of TN, and Brandon Perez of CA; sister Terra (Tom) Massey of MS; brothers Richard Flenker of MS, and Randy Flenker of MS; 5 grandchildren (with one on the way); and a very special friend Dave Earles of Lost Nation, IA.

She was preceded in death by her paternal and maternal grandparents, and her father.

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

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

Jean F. Johnson

Jean F. Johnson, age 92, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 6:30 p.m., on Thursday, November 14, 2019, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Jean’s life, funeral services will be held at 6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Dr. Lillian Daniel officiating. To celebrate Jean’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Private family burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia, at a later date.

Jean was born on April 27, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa , daughter of Harry and Florence (Koehler) Selle.

Jean was always a hard worker and as a young girl was employed at the Battery Factory, which allowed her to help pay for her twin sister’s college education. In later years she would work at several different places including the college in LaCrosse, Wisconsin, as a waitress at Hazel’s Café, and as a private housekeeper and in home care helper. She was united in marriage to Percy Johnson on August 30, 1946, and they would have 12 children together. In her free time, Jean loved to knit and crochet and made beautiful Christmas tree skirts for all of the kids. But her favorite activity, beyond a doubt, was to spend time fishing down by the river, she would fish everyday if she could. We are deeply saddened at losing Jean in our daily lives, but are grateful for the 92 years we were blessed to have her here on this Earth with us.

Those left to cherish Jean’s memory include

her children,
Larry (Donna) Johnson, East Dubuque, IL,
Karen Johnson, Stephens, VA,
Barbara Jean (Don) Painter, Dubuque, IA,
Nancy Lee Brady, Gainsville, WI,
Janet (Brian) Fisher, Alliance, NE,
Barbara Rae (Mark) McKinney, Prescott, WI,
Jeannette Sage, Prescott, WI
and Gene Johnson, Dubuque, IA;

her 22 grandchildren;

several great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren;

and a daughter-in-law,
Diane Johnson, Galena, IL.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; a grandchild, Jeremiah McKinney, and 5 grandchildren in infancy; 2 children in infancy, 2 sons, Jack Johnson and Robert “Bob: Johnson; 2 brothers, Harlan Selle and Jerry Selle; and a sister, Jeannette Streinz.

Jean’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of ManorCare for the loving care they provided to Jean for the past years.

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

Helen O. Hogan

Helen O. Hogan, 93, of Luxemburg passed away peacefully, Sunday, November 17, 2019, at the Guttenberg Care Center.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville. A visitation will continue from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Thursday at the funeral home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, November 21, 2019, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Noah Diehm will officiate.

Helen was born January 23, 1926, the daughter of John and Theresa (Stelken) Fruth. She married Vincent P. Hogan on September 28, 1948, in Colesburg, Iowa. Helen and Vincent began their marriage of almost 63 years farming in the Ryan area for three years before moving to the family farm near Luxemburg. She loved to socialize with family and friends and regularly played cards and went fishing. Helen loved to travel, her favorite travel companion was Vince. She enjoyed meeting with friends for morning coffee and was especially proud of being a member of the Luxemburg quilting ladies. She was happiest when she was able to spend time with her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.

Survivors include her 7 children: Roger (Mary) Hogan of Luxemburg, Jerry (Kathy) Hogan of Poynette, WI, Ron (Sherrie) Hogan of Dyersville, Marilyn (Ron) Schultz of Holy Cross, Dan (Deb) Hogan of Guttenberg, Mike Hogan of Holy Cross, Carol Lau of Guttenberg; 15 grandchildren: Bill (Sara) Hogan, Steven (Kathy) Hogan, Marcia (Matt) Fiegen, Bob (Andrea) Hogan, Eric (Terri) Hogan, Jenny (JJ) Coohey, Trisha (Jeff) Thier, Kelly (Tom) Ahmann, Stephanie (Brian) Gogel, Ryan (Ashley) Schultz, Jamie (Janet) Hogan, Terry (Melissa) Hogan, Ben (Ashley) Hogan, Jessica (Nick) Smith, Amber (Rusty) Meyer; 3 step grandchildren: Jason (Alex) Rath, Justin Rath, Chris (Heather) Rath, 36 great grandchildren, 9 step great grandchildren, in-laws: Jack (Carol) Hogan and Phil (Deanna) Hogan, both of Colesburg, James Helle of Edgewood and Laverne “Bud” Domeyer of Petersburg.

She was preceded in death by her husband Vince in 2011, parents, parents-in-law, Ray and Hilda (Bruggeman) Hogan, 2 children at birth: Joseph and Donna, son-in-law, Wayne Lau, siblings: Gertrude Fruth, Sally (Tony) Pasker, Tony Fruth, Marie (Jim) Thier, in-laws: Joanne Helle and Ellen Domeyer.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mary Eulberg and staff at the River Living Center in Guttenberg and also the staff at the Guttenberg Care Center.

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

Arnold L. Koranda

Arnold Koranda, 80, of Dade City, Florida and formerly of Maquoketa Iowa died Friday November 15, 2019 as a result of injuries received in a motor vehicle accident.

Arnold Lee Koranda was born January 8, 1939 in Monmouth, Iowa to Lumir and Velma (Kuehl) Koranda. Arnold was a graduate of Monmouth High School. He married Beverly White on January 18, 1959. She preceded him in death on November 30, 1988. Arnold then married Suzette Novak on October 14, 1989.

Arnold had been a former Maquoketa Police officer and a businessman owning and operating A-1 TV and Appliance and WAKA restaurant for many years before retiring to Florida.

Arnold enjoyed camping (especially with friends and family at the “Old Threshers Reunion” in Mount Pleasant, Iowa), working and keeping busy, talking on the phone and staying up to date with Maquoketa news, attending coffee and Optimist meetings while visiting Maquoketa and spending time with family and his pets namely his dog “Lady” who passed in the same auto accident.

Those left to honor Arnold’s memory include his wife Suzette and his children Pamela (Dale) Arp of Clinton, IA, Brad (Becky) Koranda of Maquoketa, IA, Robert (Robin) Koranda of Maquoketa, IA, Jolene Ledding of Maquoketa, IA and Alisha (Will) Price of Williamston, North Carolina; brother Gene Larry (Barb) Koranda of Monmouth, IA; sister Connie Bonney of Delmar, IA; five grandchildren, Bode (Samantha) Koranda of West Branch, IA, Zachary Arp of Clinton, IA, Brooklyn Koranda of Tipton, IA and Hannah and Savannah Ledding of Maquoketa, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his first wife Beverly.

Cremation will take place in Florida and a Memorial gathering of family and friends celebrating Arnold’s life will be held in Maquoketa at a later date when Suzette has recovered from injuries received in the motor vehicle accident.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Arnold Koranda memorial fund has been established.

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

Hannah R. Ruggeberg

Hannah R. Ruggeberg, 20, of Bellevue and her expecting little angel boy Kashton, passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2019 as a result of an automobile accident.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 3:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be one hour prior to services on Wednesday at the church. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

Hannah was born October 22, 1999 in Finley Hospital in Dubuque, the daughter of Jessica Ruggeberg and Orlando Guzman. She most recently worked for Focus in Dubuque as a customer call agent. Hannah enjoyed listening to music, she was proud of her body art, spending time on the river, and watching the Green Bay Packers. She loved spending time with friends and family and will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Survivors include her mother, Jessica Ruggeberg; her father, Orlando Guzman; siblings, Olivia and Ella; her maternal grandparents, John and Jill Ruggeberg; her paternal grandparents, Orlando and Anna Guzman; aunts and uncles, Travis and Kelsey Ruggeberg, Eric and Liz Ruggeberg; cousins, Carter and Griffin; and numerous other relatives.

Hannah was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal great grandparents; Ralph and Marjorie Ruggeberg, and Lavern “Lefty” and Shirley Keil, great uncle’s David Ruggeberg, Ronald Ruggeberg, and Wayne Scheckel, great aunt Phyllis Turnis, and cousins Scott Ruggeberg and Miranda Scheckel.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Hannah’s memory.

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

Janet E. Temperly

Janet Elaine Temperly, age 82, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Friday, Nov. 15, 2019 at the Galena Stauss Senior Care Community after a long battle with breast cancer.

A graveside service will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at the West Ella Highland Cemetery, Apple River, with Pastor Libby Rutherford officiating.

She was born in Council Hill, IL on Sept. 12, 1937, the daughter of Charles Temperly and Sadie (Dittmar) Temperly. She was one of the longest living residents of Scales Mound, IL having moved there in 1941. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, where she taught Sunday School for several decades. For many years, she was the family historian serving as Secretary for the Dittmar family reunion. She was a 1954 graduate of Scales Mound Community High School and remained a loyal supporter of the Hornets throughout her life.

After graduating from Iowa Wesleyan College in 1961 with a BA in Education, she taught elementary school for several years.

She is survived by her sister, Joanne Temperly of Weymouth, MA; her niece, Brenda Molife (Jerald Walker) of Hingham, MA; and two grandnephews, Adrian and Dorian.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The Miller & Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Eric J. Jasper

Eric J. Jasper, 59, of Cedar Rapids and formerly of Hopkinton passed away Friday, November 15, 2019, at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be held from 3-7 pm Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, at St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton where a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be recited at 3 pm. Visitation will continue from 9:30 – 10:30 am Wednesday prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, at St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton with burial in the Hopkinton Cemetery. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Eric was born December 1, 1959, in Monticello, IA, the son of Larry and Mary Frances (Turnis) Jasper. Eric graduated from Maquoketa Valley High School in 1978. While he was in high school he participated in baseball and football, and was a captain of the football team in his senior year. He worked at Swiss Valley Farms in Hopkinton. Following high school he attended Kirkwood Community College and enrolled in Palmer Chiropractic College, when, on May 17, 1981, he was in a motorcycle accident resulting in a spinal cord injury causing paraplegia. In 1986, he graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in General Studies, after which he sold real estate, insurance and investments. He was a member of St. Luke Catholic Church in Hopkinton, Knights of Columbus Council 12965 and the Hopkinton Lions Club.

Eric loved the Chicago Cubs and the Iowa Hawkeyes! He enjoyed attending concerts and visiting with people. He had a remarkable memory for dates and details! He was the family resource go-to person who had a tremendously positive outlook on life considering his condition. Eric will be dearly missed by his family!

Survivors include his mother, Mary Frances Jasper of Hopkinton, siblings: Jeff (Laurie) of Cedar Rapids and their sons, Jonathan (Alyssa) and their children, Ady and Sawyer of Urbandale, IA, Matthew of Colorado Springs, CO, and David of Cedar Rapids; Jan Jasper of Iowa City, Scott (Susan) of Sherman, TX, and Jamie (Kathy) and their grandson, Braxton Davis of Central City.

He was preceded in death by his father on January 30, 2012, maternal grandparents, Frank and Mary Turnis, and paternal grandparents, Frank and Esther Jasper.

Memorials are preferred to Camp Courageous of Iowa, the Hopkinton Library, or St. Luke Catholic Church.

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

Norma C. Murray

Norma C. (Brimeyer) Murray, one of the sweetest women you ever had the pleasure of meeting, was called home peacefully on Friday, November 15, 2019, at home.  To honor Norma’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, November 20, 2019, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating.  To celebrate Norma’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 Saint Joseph Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m.  Burial will be in St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, Placid, Iowa.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Norma was born on December 18, 1926, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, daughter of Walter and Catherine (Klaas) Brimeyer.  She first worked at the family’s general store in Buenie and later at Western Auto in Dubuque, where she met her future husband, Jim.  Norma and Jim were married on October 13, 1948, at Immaculate Conception Church in North Buena Vista.  Norma was a stay-at-home mom until the youngest of her seven children entered school.  She then worked for many years at K-Mart, at the layaway and service desks, as well as being a front door greeter.  While there, she enjoyed writing poetry for fellow employees on special occasions.  Norma was a long-time member of St. Joseph the Worker parish.  She belonged to the Catholic Daughters, Mother’s Prayer Group and Power of Prayer Chapel.

Those left to cherish Norma’s memory include

her children,
Tom (Cathy) Murray,
Sheila (Buck) Schultz,
Dan (Sue) Murray,
Bill (Glynnie Wylie) Murray,
Marylou (Terry) Driscoll,
Michael Murray, (her care giver for many years),
and Cathy (Jerry) McConnell;

she was Nana to her grandchildren, Jessa (Cody) Roberdeau, Zach (Angie) Schultz, Sarah (Bryan) Fitting, Mandy (Fiancé Freddy Tuggle) Murray, Joe (Trina) Murray, Kristi (Jason) Cottrell, Elizabeth Wylie, Lydia Wylie and Melanie McConnell;

she was also Nana to her great-grandchildren, Winn Roberdeau, Landon and Jude Schultz, Brigid Fitting, Rowan and Brynn Murray;

and is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Norma was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim; a brother, Leon (Grace) Brimeyer; a sister, Mary Adele; and her brothers-in-law, Carl Heer and Merle Houselog.

Norma’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Paul and Alicia, and her niece, Janet Heer, for their 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

Sister Marie Neff, BVM

Sister Marie Neff, BVM (Charles Marie), 90, of 1130 Carmel Dr., Dubuque, Iowa, died Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, at Caritas Center.

Visitation will be from 9-10:15 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in the Marian Hall Chapel. Sharing of Memories will be at 10:15 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Marie was an elementary teacher in San Francisco and Petaluma, Calif.; Omaha and Lincoln, Nebr.; Wichita, Kans.; and Hickman Mills and Kansas City, Mo., where she also served as principal.  She was an office staff member in Bonner Springs, Kansas.

She was born June 11, 1929, in Kansas City, Mo., to Charles and Mary Riley Neff. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1946, from St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, Kans. She professed first vows on March 19, 1949, and final vows on Aug. 15, 1954.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Mary Ellen Hueneke, Margaret Driskill and Helen Theno; brothers: Charles and John Neff.  She is survived by a sister Catherine Hashman, Lenexa, Kans.; nieces, nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 73 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmsisters.org/support_donate.cfm.

Behr’s Funeral Home, 1491 Main St, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

James L. Kraus

James L. Kraus, 81, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Thursday, November 14, 2019 at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Jim will be held from 1 to 7 p.m., Sunday, November 17, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where the Farley American Legion will meet at 4:30 p.m. and the Farley Fire Department will meet in a body at 6:30 p.m. Visitation will also be held after 11:00 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home in Farley. Services for Jim will be held at 1:00 p.m., Monday, November 18, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa with full Military Honors afforded by the .

Jim was born March 30, 1938 in Farley, Iowa, son of Leo J. and Alvina C. (Schmitt) Kraus. He is a graduate of the former St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Farley, Iowa. On October 13, 1962 he was united in marriage to Phyllis Oberbroeckling. She preceded him in death on May 10, 1996. On February 18, 2000 he was united in marriage to Sue (Sweeney) Konzen.

He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years until his retirement in 1994. He was a member of Rolling Knolls golf course where he proudly mowed the “rough” for over 20 years. Jim also worked with his friends at Reiff Funeral Home for several years. He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes, Cubs and Bears fan and enjoyed playing cards with his friends.

He was a Veteran, having served in the Air Force for 4 years. He entered the service on Sept. 6, 1956 at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, TX he went on to Ground and Intercept Radio Operator school at Keisler AFB. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley the Altar and Rosary society, choir, and served on the Parish Council and school Board. He was a former member of the Farley City Council, the Farley Park Board and the Farley Fire Department.

He is survived by his wife, Sue Kraus of Farley, IA; four children; Kevin Kraus (Rene Kelly) of Dubuque, Kurt (Sue) Kraus of Marion, Kim (Bob) Nauman of Iowa City and Kent (Andrea) Kraus of Peosta; 10 grandchildren; Sue’s children, Andy Konzen of Farley, Marty (Bobbi) Konzen of Dubuque, Tracey (Nick) Reicher of Hopkinton; 8 grandchildren; his father and mother-in-law, Jim and Lois Sweeney; two sisters, Mary Westermeyer of Dyersville and Irene (Larry) Scherrman of Farley and; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Carol Coyle of Cascade, Jane (Ron) Deutmeyer of Dyersville, Marge (Rick) Gansemer of Rickardsville, Barb Sweeney, Nancy (Brian) Schlueter both of Dyersville, Jr. (Angie Bennett) Sweeney of Farley, Karen (Keith) Neyen of Farley, Lois Oberbroeckling of Waterloo, Tom (Joanne) Oberbroeckling of Dyersville, Jan (Ron) Boeckenstedt of Waterloo, Dianne (Dennis) Duve of Luxemburg, and Betty Kraus of Dubuque.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ralph (Elizabeth) Kraus, Bill Kraus, sisters, Doris (Ken) Kemp and Melita (Harry) O’Neill; and brothers-in-law, Carlton Westermeyer, Bob Oberbroeckling, Jim Oberbroeckling and Pat Coyle.

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

Memorials for Jim maybe given to Hope Lodge in Iowa City or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.