Obituaries Archive

Venita M. Knapp

Venita M. Knapp, 90, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa formerly of Cascade, Iowa, passed away, Sunday, August 18, 2019, at Big Meadows Nursing Home, in Savanna, Illinois, surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Venita may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Thursday, August 22, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 3 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at the funeral home. Mass of Christian burial for Venita will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with her grandson, Rev. Ross Epping presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born May 28, 1929 in Placid, Iowa, daughter of James and Alberta (Mahan) Casey. She received her education from Brown’s Country School, St. Martin’s High School, and the Dubuque Academy. She went on to become a Teacher at Brown’s Country School in rural Cascade area.

On June 15, 1950 she was united in marriage to John N. “Jack” Knapp at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. The couple farmed in the rural Cascade area until retiring in 1985. She also worked at the Cascade State Bank, Bishop’s Restaurant, and Hy-Vee in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

She was a member of St. Jude’s Parish in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

She is survived by seven children, Maureen Ries (Dave McCabe) of Galena, IL, Debra (Bill) Schmelling of Cedar Rapids, IA; Gary “Morgan” (Sheila) Knapp of Cascade, Juli (Don) Vrotsos of Dubuque, Jacki Knapp (Bruce Woolfolk) of Cedar Rapids, Peggy (Ed) Epping of Atkins, IA, and Kelly Knapp of Marion; 22 grandchildren; 24 great grandchildren; two sisters, Gerene O’Brien of Monticello, IA and Cherri Wessels of Dyersville, IA,; four brothers, Dell (Bev) Casey of Brentwood, CA, John Casey of Des Moines, Pat (Sharon) Casey and Chuck (Donna) Casey both of Cascade.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John N. “Jack” Knapp on July 4, 2018; a son, Bob Knapp; two sisters, Krista and Kayla Casey in infancy; two brothers, Glen Casey and Duane Casey; three sons-in-law, John Burds, Ken Ries and Mike Maddigan.

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

Herman Henry Gansemer

Herman Henry Gansemer, 88, of Sherrill, passed away Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday August 23, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Br. Stephen Markham will officiate. Interment will be at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Cemetery, Sherrill. Friends may also greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, August 22, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory.

Herman was born August 21, 1930 in Sherrill, the son of Henry and Theresa (Butlett) Gansemer. He married Marie Osterkamp on January 8, 1952, at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on April 23, 1997.

Herman farmed for many years on the family dairy farm in Sherrill. Along with Marie, he enjoyed dancing, including Polka, and was a member of the Gold Rush square dancing group.

In 2006, Herman met Lelah Peet, whose companionship he enjoyed until her passing in January of 2019. Herman and Lelah enjoyed vacationing in Mission, TX during winters. Herman was an avid recycler, and was devoted to cleaning up the beach at Finley’s Landing.

Herman is survived by three children, Kathy (Del) Winter of Marion, Joan (John) Lux of Dubuque, and Ron (Delores) Gansemer of Sherrill; eight grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; and four siblings, Henry (Mary Jane) Gansemer, Darlene (Emil) Weber, Clarence (Darlene) Gansemer, and Sally (Cletus) Bleile.

In addition to his wife, Herman was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Viola (Mick) Hefel; and two brothers, Lawrence Gansemer, and LaVerne in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted by the family for later donation to Herman’s favorite charities.
Herman’s family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Ruth M. Coble

Ruth M. Coble, 101, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 18, 2019 at home.

Services will be held at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home until time of service. Burial will be at a later date in Compentine Cemetery, Wapello County, Iowa

Ruth was born on February 26, 1918, in Rosehill, Iowa the daughter of Ira and Myrtle (Kinkaid) Hollingsworth; she was the 9th of 10 children. She married Walter E. Coble in 1936 and he preceded her in death.

She enjoyed gardening, flowers, bird watching and family gatherings.

Ruth is survived by her children, JoAnn (Kenny) David, Dick (Margaret) Coble, Dan (Lola) Coble, Sue (Rick) Huseman, and Sheila (Pat) Brehm; her daughters-in-law Alice Coble and Patty Coble; many grandchildren, great grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Walter; three sons Larry, Roger and Jerry Coble; grandchildren Ronnie and Rebecca Davis and great granddaughter Glenda Kirkman.

Sister Anne Marie Kollasch

Sister Anne Marie Kollasch, PBVM, 100, died on Saturday, August 17, 2019, at Mount Loretto Motherhouse, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque IA.

Funeral Services will be Thursday, August 22, 2019 at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, with burial in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Friends may call from 4:00-7:00 pm on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at Sacred Heart Chapel, where there will be a vigil service at 7:00 pm.

Sister Anne Marie, daughter of Charles and Anne (Laubenthal) Kollasch, was born Margaret Barbara Kollasch on March 4, 1919, in Whittemore IA. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Whittemore IA on September 8, 1940 and professed her perpetual vows on June 10, 1946.

Sister received a Bachelor of Arts from Loras College, Dubuque IA. Her ministry of teaching grades 4-8 took her to Mason City, St. Columbkille of Dubuque, Key West, Waukon, Charles City and Algona, all in Iowa.

Sister Anne Marie was the oldest member of the Dubuque Presentation community at the time of her death and is the longest-lived Kollasch on record as of her birthday in March of 2019. After her retirement in 1993 she volunteered at the Dubuque Nursing and Rehab Center, sharing her gifts in service of the gospel for many years. In 2015, she celebrated her 75h Jubilee. She devoted her days to prayer and the enjoyment of art, history, politics, needle work, culinary arts and connecting with family and friends. She enjoyed time spent with her Presentation Sisters and conversing with staff who were part of the rich texture of her daily life.

Earlier this spring, Sister Anne Marie noted that while the process of aging is challenging, it gave her time to reflect on her experiences. She was grateful for a life that was not only long but also deeply meaningful. She wrote in her autobiography, A Kollasch Collage, “I am ever aware of the ‘hundredfold’ that is mine as God’s beloved,” adding that she is always thankful for the support of family, friends and religious community throughout her life.

Surviving are her sisters, Delores Kollasch, Sister Joann Kollasch, OSB, Irene Bormann (Harold deceased) and sister-in-law Betty Ann (Louis deceased) Kollasch; nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 79 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Caroline (Clarence) Bormann and her brothers Reverend Eugene Kollasch, SJ, Arnold (Lorene), Louis and Clement (Mary Helen).

The Leonard Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dubuquepresentations.org.

Lloyd C. Manternach

Lloyd C. Manternach, 78, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away Sunday, August 18, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of Lloyd may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Friday, August 23, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home. Services for Lloyd will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 24, 2019 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa with Rev. Neil Manternach presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He was born July 30, 1941 in Monticello, Iowa, son of Clem and Mary (Gudenkauf) Manternach. He received his education in the former St. Mary’s School in Cascade. On November 19, 1960 he was united in marriage to Lois A. Trumm, daughter of John and Elizabeth Trumm at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.

He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works from 1964 until retiring in 1992. He then owned and operated Lloyd’s small engine repair in Worthington. He later worked at Victory Ford in Dyersville until recently.

He and Lois enjoyed spending time with their family, camping, attending polka festivals, and took great pride in their children and grandchildren and loved attending their events.

He was a member of the Army National Guard from Aug. 1959-May 1967. He served on the Worthington City Council for 2 terms and as Mayor for 2 terms. He was a member of St. Paul’s Parish for which he also served on the Parish council and the school board.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Manternach of Worthington; seven children, Lisa (Alan) Umbenhower of Chariton and their children, Jonathan (Lindsey) Weber, Kevin Weber, Dana Weber (fiance, Robbie Clark), Troy and Christina Umbenhower; Todd (Sue) Manternach of Cedar Rapids and their children, Cole (Hannah) Manternach, Ashlyn Manternach (fiance, Breon Hawthorne), Darby Manternach, and Reese Manternach; Roger (Susanne) Manternach of Brownsburg, IN and their children Abbie (Ryan) McNew, Curtis (Megan) Manternach, Mary (Logan) Finney; Janet (Steve) Turnis of Monticello and their children, Ben (Emily) Turnis, Laura (Cody) Zumbach and Brian Turnis; Paul (Jill) Manternach of Clear Lake and their children, Olivia, Michael, Thomas and Marie Manternach; Sarah (Tony) Donovan of Worthington and their children, Emma and Grace Willenborg; Carol (Dan) Wetlaufer of Cedar Falls and their children, Anna and Sean Wetlaufer; 10 great-grandchildren and one on the way; six siblings, Dolores (Pat) McQuillen and Phil (Nikki) Manternach both of Cascade, Urban (Linda) Manternach of Dubuque, Madonna Riesberg of Dyersville, Marilyn (Steve) Skahill of East Dubuque, IL, Carol (Pete) Dolan of Dubuque; brothers and sisters-in-law, George Knepper of Cascade, Dorothy Yanda of Anamosa, Betty Trumm and Ida Trumm both of Cascade.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law, a son-in-law, Jerry Weber; a brother-in-law, Donald Riesberg; a sister-in-law, Ellen Manternach; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Fred (Mary) Reiter, Alma Knepper, Lawrence Yanda, Leroy (Mary Clara) Trumm, Rosene Trumm, Millie (Eddie) Trumm, Robert Trumm and John Trumm; and a nephew, Nick Trumm.

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

Jean M. Mausser

Jean M. Mausser,, 88, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away, Saturday, August 17, 2019 at her home in Epworth, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Friends and relatives of Jean may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a rosary will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Thursday at the Funeral Home in Farley.

Services for Jean will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 22, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller Presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born January 22, 1931 at St. Joseph’s Prairie in rural Dubuque, daughter of John and Stella (Molony) Friederick. She received her education in the St. Columbkille’s school in Dubuque, Iowa. On September 18, 1951 she was united in marriage to Clement Mausser at St. Joseph’s Prairie Church. He preceded her in death on November 2, 2011.

The couple farmed in rural Epworth, Iowa, she was a hard working farm wife, and avid gardener. Jean loved to go ballroom dancing, she had a passion for sewing, but especially enjoyed visiting with family and friends.

She is survived by five children, Paul (Mary) Mausser, Phil (Phyllis) Mausser and Carol (Fritz) Brehm all of Epworth, IA, Diane (Tim) Hoover of Edgewood, IA, Luann Mausser of Epworth, IA; a son-in-law, James Leick (Paula) of Durango, IA; 23 grandchildren; 39 great grandchildren.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; as daughter, Joan Leick on June 29, 2009; a grandson, David Mausser on July 25, 1978 and a granddaughter, Lisa Miller on June 2, 2015.

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

Lois M. Smith

Lois Marie Smith, 82, of Epworth, Iowa passed away Tuesday, August 13, 2019 in rural Epworth from injuries sustained in a pedestrian/motor vehicle accident.

Friends and relatives of Lois may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Monday, August 19, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a rosary will be held at 3:00 p.m.. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Tuesday, August 20th at the Funeral Home, due to the storm damage done to the Epworth funeral home.

Services for Lois will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 20, 2019, St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

Lois was born September 17, 1936 in Placid, Iowa, daughter of Cyril M. and Viola (Delaney) McDermott. She received her education in the Placid and Epworth schools. She also attended the Mercy School of Nursing. On October 15, 1960 she was united in marriage to John Smith at St. John’s in Placid, Iowa. The couple farmed in rural Epworth, IA.
She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, IA and was instrumental in implementing the Liturgical committee and Eucharistic Adoration. She was also very involved in the Epworth food pantry. She loved taking walks, watching sunsets, picking flowers, dancing, and spending time with her grandchildren. Lois was well known for her delicious homemade breads and her famous oatmeal raisin filled cookies.

She is survived by her husband, John Smith of Epworth, IA; five children, Michael (Susan) Smith of St. Charles, MN, Sara (Mike) Brehm of Peosta, IA, Marty (Lori) Smith of Epworth, IA and Peter (Rebecca) Smith of Cascade, IA, Jenny Sandeen of Rochester, MN; 33 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; four siblings, Dorrance (Verna) McDermott and Neal (Katie) McDermott both of Epworth, IA, Phyllis (Darris) Goerdt of North Liberty, IA and Julie Casey of Placid, IA; Her brother and sister-in-laws, Pat (Donna) Smith of Dubuque, IA, Ray (Chere) Smith of Plainfield, IN, Phyllis (Gary) Astgen of East Dubuque, IL, Kathy (Wally) Link of Dyersville, IA, Rita Benter of Dubuque, IA, Darlene Sexton of Dubuque, IA and Bill Brown of Bettendorf, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Dennis McDermott; a sister, Mary Catherine McDermott in infancy; a brother-in-law, Donald Casey; brothers and sister-in-law, Eugene Smith, Ann Brown, Dennis Smith and Dick Smith.

A Lois M. Smith memorial fund for masses has been established in lieu of flowers.

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

David T. Becwar

David T. Becwar, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 8th, 2019 at his home, due to a long struggle with Alzheimer’s.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, August 19, 2019, at St. Joseph The Worker with Rev. Thomas McDermott officiating. Burial will follow in Rockdale United Methodist Church with full military honors by Iowa Army National Guard. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 18, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:00 p.m.

Dave was born on June 6th, 1934 in the family farm in Glen Haven, WI the son of Thomas and Lucille (Ryan) Becwar. In 1953 he graduated from Bloomington High School. As a young man, David had different jobs, but he always talked about working at the Blue Haven Night Club in Prairie de Chien. In 1956 he moved to Dubuque and began working at Montgomery Wards and eventually managed their first camera department where his love of photography started. He later managed the camera department at Sears.

David served with the Iowa Army National Guard Company A 1st Battalion 133rd Infantry from 1956 to 1962. In 1970 David began working fulltime with the Iowa National Guard Company A and retired in 1994. He also ran Becwar Photography for 34 years out of his home.

On September 5th, 1960 David married Sharon “Judy” Waller at Holy Trinity Catholic Church and together they had three children, Scott, Lori and Shawn.
David loved life and enjoyed everything, especially a good meal. He loved cars and working on them; he enjoyed going to the flea market and antiquing with Judy and they loved traveling to see relatives and friends.

David is survived by his wife Sharon “Judy”; his children, Scott (Michelle) Becwar, Lori (Kevin) McNaney, both of Dubuque, and Shawn Becwar, of Lake Mary, Florida. Four grandchildren, Rachael (Erik) Dukeman, Brandon (Jackie) Pape, Morgan Becwar, and Paige Becwar. Two great granddaughters Lorelai and Mila. Two brothers Gary (Sandy) Becwar, Michael (Joyce) Becwar; two sisters Barbara Everly and Mary Louise Brunkhorst; sister-in-law Gail Dame along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister Karen (Benny) Tigges; his mother and father-in-law Walter and Daisy Waller; daughter-in-law Lydia Becwar, sister-in-law Patricia (Bill) Kohler; brothers-in-law Jim (Kay) Waller and Robert Dame.

The family would like to thank Dr. Chis Stille and all the nurses and staff along with Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sara for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave.

The family request no flowers, in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Joseph The Worker, The Veteran’s Freedom Center, Hospice of Dubuque, or the Alzheimer’s Association.
“You were right Marge, He was a great guy.”

Alvin H. Miller

Alvin Harold Miller, 86, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, August 18, 2019, at his home. He was born on September 22, 1932, in Manchester, the son of Harold J. and Helen E. (Bergren) Miller and later, Beth Miller.

Al graduated with the class of 1950 from Manchester High School and served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 through 1955, when he was honorably discharged. He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1959 with a B.S. in civil engineering and in 1960 with an M.S. in sanitary engineering. In 1964, Al founded Tri-State Engineers, which he owned and operated until 2002.

On October 15, 1981, Al married Jan Mead on Maui, Hawaii. Al was active in many community affairs. He was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather and wrote beautiful poetry to his Lady. Al is loved deeply by his family.

Al is survived by his wife, Jan of Manchester; his children, Jessica (David) Massey of Charlotte, North Carolina, Mattson (Nancy) Miller of Humboldt, Denise Mead of San Diego, California, Craig Mead of North Liberty, and Dana (Eric) Smith of Iowa City; nine grandchildren, Dara Mead, Avery and Ella Smith, Carly Mead, Alexandria (Adam) Prucolli, Joshua Massey, Kandi Armstead, Justin Armstead, and Dawson Miller; seven great-grandchildren, Riley Massey, Isabella Prucolli, Alivia and Paisley Miller, and Madison, Kayden, and Bradlee Armstead; and his siblings, Marilyn Ortberg of Columbus Junction, Gale Westemeier of Manchester, Dan (Carolyn) Hallenbeck of Greensboro, Georgia, and Ted (Linda) Hallenbeck of Palm Desert, California.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Bonnie Sullivan; and brothers-in-law, Bob Sullivan, Dave Westemeier, and Ralph Ortberg.

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

Memorial Service with Military Rites: 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 22, 2019, at the Community Congregational Church in Manchester, with Reverend David Grandon officiating.

Visitation: 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends can also call from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at the church.

Gertrude E. Ruden

Gertrude E. “Gert” Ruden, age 103, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 9:50 p.m., on Thursday, August 15, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center. To honor Gert’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Holy Cross Church, 875 Church Street, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating. To celebrate Gert’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 20, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture services held at 3:30 p.m. Burial will be in Holy Cross Cemetery.

Gert was born on May 4, 1916, in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Michael and Catherine (Neumann) Ruden.

Gert was born and raised on the farm, where she learned the value of hard work early on in life. She was very dedicated to her work and she co-owned Giesel Springs Tavern and later Frank’s Place on John Deere Road, with her brother Frank, for several years. She was quite talented and created several beautiful quilts and crocheted items throughout her lifetime. Gert was also a talented seamstress and enjoyed making outfits for all of her nieces and nephews. Gert’s Catholic faith was extremely important to her, and she was a shining example of her faith to all of her family and friends. Everyone always knew that if they needed help, Gert was always willing to drop everything and lend a hand. We have been very blessed to have Gert here with us for the past 103 years, and know that she is now resting peacefully with all of her family members that have been called home ahead of her.

Those left to cherish Gert’s memory include several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Gert was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Catherine (Fritz) Krug, Marie (Clarence) Schmal, Barbara “Babe” (Leonard) Backes, Stella (Pete) Krug, Rosella (Donald) Jasper and Frank Ruden.

Gert’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Gert these 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

Shirley M. Lietz

Shirley M. Lietz, 77, of Monticello and formerly of Scotch Grove, Iowa passed away Friday, August 16, 2019, at Unity Point St. Luke Hospice in Cedar Rapids.

Visitation will be held from 4 – 8 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, in Monticello.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am Thursday, August 22, 2019 at St. John Lutheran Church in Monticello with burial at Oakwood Cemetery. Rev. Dale Glawatz will officiate.

Shirley was born July 10, 1942, in Center Junction, Iowa the daughter of Arthur and Dorthea (Antons) Rickels.  Shirley had some wonderful relationships and through them she had five beautiful children.  Shirley was a Nurses Aid at Monticello Nursing and Rehab Center for many years. She loved gardening and spending time outdoors with her flowers and animals.  She loved family get-togethers as frequently as possible, and especially spending time with her grandchildren.  Shirley was a very social person who touched many lives.

Survivors include her children: Kim (Dennis) Kidd of Maquoketa, Gary (Christina) Lietz of Hanover, IL, Paul Lietz of Maquoketa, Keno Lietz of Scotch Grove and Holly (Matt) Kluesner of Hopkinton; grandchildren: Timothy, Joshua and Heather Kidd, Melinda and Hunter Lietz, Jacqueline and Arthur Lietz, and Jacey and Dane Thomas, 10 great grandchildren; siblings: Marvin (Daisy) Rickels of Monticello, Susan Wright of Scotch Grove and Eugene (Kay) Rickels of Hopkinton ; a sister-in-law, Dixie Rickels of Anamosa.

She was preceded in death by her parents, 2 grandchildren, Adam and Daniel Kidd, and siblings: Larry (Paula) Rickels, Ervin Rickels, and a stillborn sister.

Memorials are preferred.

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

Alex C. Heiderscheit

Alex C. Heiderscheit, 32, of Petersburg, IA passed away on Thursday, August 15, 2019 at home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 21, 2019 at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg with Very Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd Dubuque. Visitation will also be held after 9:00 a.m. at the church on Wednesday until time of service.

Alex was born on December 25, 1986 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Clarence and Edelberta (Ondangan) Heiderscheit. In 2005 he graduated from Wahlert High School, after graduation he attended NICC.

He married Gina Francois on April 27th, 2019 at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg, IA.

Alex was currently employed at Ay McDonald Manufacturing and was previously employed with Weber Metals in Cascade and EIMCO in Farley as a Machinist.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Eagle Scout of Troup 69. Alex was an avid hunter and fisherman and enjoyed the outdoors, but he especially loved spending time with family and friends.

Alex is survived by his loving wife Gina Heiderscheit; his father Clarence Heiderscheit; brother, Michael (Shawn) Heiderscheit; nieces Clara and Anora and his nephew Nicholas Heiderscheit. Father and mother-in-law Dan & Sally Francois; sister-in-law Colleen (Kevin) Klein and their children Chloe and Brynlee Klein along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother and his grandparents.

The family would like to thank the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics Oncology Unit; Dr. Monga and nurses, especially Amanda, along with Hospice of Dubuque for all their care, kindness and compassion they gave to Alex and his family.

In lieu of flowers a Alex C. Heiderscheit memorial fund will be established.

Ruth A. Hainstock

Ruth Ann (Gockel) Hainstock, 86, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2019.

Ruth was born on May 28, 1933, the daughter of Celestine and Theresa (Adams) Gockel in Lancaster, Wisconsin. Ruth was united in marriage to William Scott Hainstock on August 12, 1953 at Saint Columbkilles Catholic Church, Dubuque, Iowa. Ruth and Bill farmed together and raised four children Bill, Deb, Rich, and Barb.

Ruth graduated from high school at the age of sixteen and went to a two year college to become a school teacher. She then began her teaching career at Rockdale Country School when she was 18 years old. After marriage, earning her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Marycrest College, and beginning a family, she returned to teaching at Delwood Schools in Delmar, Iowa; where she retired after 29 years. Ruth was very devoted to her career and had a positive impact on many of her students, families, and coworkers. She is a member of Sacred Heart Church in Maquoketa and a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Raphael #1156.

Ruth enjoyed traveling and playing cards with her friends and family. She spent many hours in retirement volunteering for local organizations including Hospital Auxiliary, Maquoketa Community Cupboard, Hurstville Interpretive Center, and Meals On Wheels. Ruth took great pride in her family and enjoyed following their careers and activities.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children William (Wendy) Hainstock of Maquoketa, Debra (Gary) Pontenberg of Florida, Richard (Mary Jo) Hainstock of Vinton, and Barbara (Shannon) Elmore of Montana, also five grandchildren Michael (Lisa) Hainstock, Tara (Tom) Atkinson, Matthew (Dani) Hainstock, Kimberlee and Barbara Rose Elmore, two step-grandchildren Adam and Ashley Pontenberg, and four great grandchildren Isabel and Will Atkinson and Ivy and Rex Hainstock. Siblings include Dan (Elaine) Gockel, Dave (Joanne) Gockel, and Tom Gockel, her sisters-in-law Phyllis Campbell and Charlotte Gockel and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband William S. (Bill); an infant son Lee Scott; her parents; sister & brother-in-law Patricia & Bud Strane; two brothers, Joseph and Bill; and in-laws Patricia Gockel, Lois and Mel Laschansky and John Campbell.

A funeral mass celebrating Ruth’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, August 23, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, August 22, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where the Rosary will be recited at 3:30 P.M. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Robert J. Burlage

Robert J. Burlage, 81, of Monticello passed away Friday, August 16, 2019, at Monticello Nursing & Rehab Center.

Visitation will be held 4-8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 19, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello where a parish vigil service will be held at 4 p.m.

Visitation will continue Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello. Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Robert was born January 12, 1938, in Monticello the son of Lawrence and Frances (Kurt) Burlage. He graduated from St. Mary High School in Cascade with the Class of 1955, and enlisted in the Army, having served in a missile defense battery in Taiwan. He married Marilyn Rahe on November 27, 1965, in Dyersville, Iowa. Together they farmed east of Monticello until retirement and moved to town in 2002.

Survivors include 4 children: Peg (Frank) Mere and Marty (Stacey) Burlage, both of Monticello, Jane (John) Smith of Lafayette, IN, and Tim (Rubi) Burlage of Florham Park, NJ; 17 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; siblings: Grace Tallman of Davenport, Richard Burlage of Brooklyn, NY, Helen Hignite of Edmond, OK, and Donald (Marcia) Burlage of Tipton, IN; in-laws: Doris Burlage of Monticello, Karen Funke and Ken (Shirley) Rahe, both of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Marilyn in 2016, parents-in-law, Gerald and Agnes (Tauke) Rahe; siblings: Bill (Jeanne) Burlage and John Burlage; and in-laws: Richard Tallman, Floyd Hignite and Leon Funke.

Memorials are preferred.

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

Charles C. Kurt

Charles Clarence Kurt, 90, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away on Thursday August 15, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Charles may call from 2 to 8 p.m., on Sunday, August 18, 2019, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial for Charles will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 19, 2019 at St. Patrick Church in Garryowen with Rev. Aloysius Vorwald presiding. . Burial will follow the funeral service at St. Patrick Cemetery with full Military Honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Charles was the fourth of 12 children born to John G. and Ella (Moorman) Kurt in Bernard, Iowa on January 31, 1929. He married Elizabeth (Kit) Dunne on April 8, 1958 at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Otter Creek, IA. Charles was a farmer in the Bernard area prior to moving to Cascade in 2002. He served as a trustee for St. Patrick Church, board member for the Bernard Fire Department and the Bernard Telephone Company and a ASCS county board members. After moving to Cascade, he was a Telegraph Herald newspaper delivery person.

Charles was an Army veteran who served his country during the Korean War, was privileged to go on an Honor Flight in September 2012, and received a Quilt of Valor in November 2015. He was a member of the Cascade American Legion-Post #528.

He is survived by his siblings-Tom(Rita)Kurt of Bernard, IA and Pete(Mary Jane) Kurt of Peosta, IA; Lois Donovan, Earl(Louetta) Kurt of Cascade, IA; and Sr. Mary Kurt of Cedar Rapids IA

He was also preceded in death by his wife-Elizabeth on July 12, 2019; his son-Jerry on January 26, 1995; his parents; and his siblings-Germaine Bechen, Henry Kurt, Dorrance Kurt, Sr. Bernice Kurt, Rita Martin, and Jane Ann Steffen.

A Charles Kurt Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Shady Rest Care Center and Above and Beyond for all of their care to Charles.

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