Obituaries Archive

Virginia E. Schmitt

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

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

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

Those left to cherish Trixie’s memory include

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

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

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

her 20 great-grandchildren;

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

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

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

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

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

Marina B. (Stecklein) Lehmann

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dennis J. Sharkey Sr.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gregory A. Sharkey

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

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

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

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

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

Alfred Behnke

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marvin J. Weis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Laurie A. Theill

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

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

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

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

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Laurie include,

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

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

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

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

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

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

John A. Bohy

John A. “Art” Bohy, 91, of St. Donatus, passed away unexpectantly at home on Tuesday, December 17, 2019.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Friday, December 27, 2019 at Bellevue Community High School West Gym in Bellevue. Visitation will be 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Thursday, December 26, 2019 at Bellevue Community High School West Gym in Bellevue, additional visitation will be one hour prior to service on Friday. Burial with Military Honors Conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in First Presbyterian Church Cemetery in Bellevue.

John was born December 13, 1928 in Woolstock, Iowa, the son of John Arthur and Bessie Leona (Rief) Bohy, Sr. He graduated from Clarion High School in 1947. John served his country in the US Navy 1948 – 1951 during the Korean War. John earned his BA from Buena Vista in Storm Lake and his Masters Degree from Iowa State in Ames.

He married Billie Lou Parks on June 23, 1957 at the EUB Church in Marshalltown, Iowa. He began working at Bellevue Schools in 1967 and was the first guidance counselor at Bellevue Public School and then retired as High School Principal in 1990 and was instrumental in starting the school’s wrestling program, coaching track and cross-country. He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Bellevue American Legion Post #273, where he was Past Commander and Past 2nd District Commander and its Honor Guard.

John enjoyed spending time with his family, farming, writing poetry, mushroom hunting, carpenter work, and he never met a stranger. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Billie; their children, Denise (Jeff) Elmore of Newburgh, IN, Deborah (Paul) Dent of Bellevue, and James (Jane) Bohy of Chemnitz, Germany; 5 grandchildren, Erica (James) Barnett, Jared (Shannon) Dent, Ryan (Emily) Elmore, Megan Elmore, and Brena Nelson; 6 great-grandchildren, Connor, Grady, Benny, Judah, Riley, and Lincoln; a brother, Donald Bohy; sisters and brothers in-law, Ruth Bohy, Ron (Pat) Parks, and Sue (Tom) Kilker; and numerous nieces and nephews.

John was preceded in death by his parents; a brother Dean Bohy; sister in-law, Shirley Bohy, and a nephew, Donald “Sam” Bohy.

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

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

Marvin H. Nickol

Marvin H. Nickol, 86, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2019 at MercyOne Senior Care.

Visitation was held from 2 – 8 p.m. Thursday, December 19, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, Iowa where an American Legion Post #137 service was held at 7 pm. Visitation continued from 9 – 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial was held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 20, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery where military honors were accorded by American Legion Post 137. Rev. Dennis Quint officiated with Rev. Al Vorwald concelebrating. Mass servers were Luke Kruse, Autumn Domeyer and Maria Kruse. Lector was Terese Kruse and giftbearers were Marvin’s granddaughters. Eucharistic ministers were Terese Kruse, Claire Riesberg, Michael Sperfslage and Ron Lawrence. Pallbearers were John Nickol Jr., Matt Nickol, Chris Nickol, Drew Sperfslage, Adam Sperfslage and Ted Kruse.

Marvin was born February 26, 1933, in Monticello, the son of Melvin and Margaret (Kremer) Nickol. He married Arlene Allen on November 8, 1951. She passed away February 23, 1992. He later married Rosemary Steger on April 26, 1996.

Marvin was a heavy equipment contractor, farmer, hunter, and fisherman. He was a Church Trustee for Saint Francis Xavier Basilica. He especially loved being with his family.

Survivors include his wife, Rosemary Nickol, his children: Gerald (Sandy) Nickol, Melvin (Ruth) Nickol, James (Becky) Nickol, Mark Nickol, all of Dyersville, John (Audrey) Nickol, of Worthington, Marlene (Steven) Wilson, of Cedar Rapids, Dianne (Michael) Sperfslage, of Edgewood, his step-children: Cindy Steger, Allan (Carrie) Steger, Phil (Gloria) Steger, Julie (Dave) Neumann, Dan (Tracy) Steger, Mike (Kirsten) Steger; numerous grandchildren, step-grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and step-greatgrandchildren; 3 sisters, Joan Tauke, Barbara (Jerry) Feldmann, Bonnie (Andy) Hollenback; 2 brothers, Billy (Betty) Mausser, Ronnie (Susie) Mausser and the entire extended Mausser family; a sister-in-law, Ardrith Meeker and the entire extended Meeker family.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Arlene Nickol in 1992; a son in infancy, Gerald Henry Nickol in 1953; two daughters-in-law, Glenda and Rebecca Nickol; brothers-in-law, Don Tauke and Fred Meeker; Tyler Steger in infancy and Scott Wulfekuhle, his granddaughter’s husband.

The family would like to thank the staff of MercyOne Senior Care for their compassionate care.

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

Norma L. (Grass) Stanley

Norma L. (Grass) Stanley, 90, of Hawkeye Care Center passed away Tuesday, December 17, 2019.

Funeral services will be held at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, December 19, 2019 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Paul Attah-Nsiah officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Thursday at the church. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.

Norma was born on June 1, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of George and Gladys (Cushman) Reisen. On November 8, 1947 she married Robert Grass. He preceded her in death on April of 1987. Norma then married Russell Stanley on June 28, 1990. Russell passed away on January 17, 2007.

Norma attended Dubuque Beauty School in her early years and was a stay at home mom. She adored her family and loved her cats. Reading, crocheting and playing euchre were her favorite past times.

Surviving are her children Donald (June) Grass and Daniel (Debbie) Grass both of Potosi, WI, Barbara Sue (Butch) Grass-Schubert of Shullsburg, WI, Lisa (Gary) Wilming of Dubuque, IA and Charlotte (Thumser) Grass of East Dubuque, IL; her brother Loren (Pat) Reisen of St. Donatus, IA; 8 grandchildren and many great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two husbands and her brothers Keith and Milton Reisen

Norma’s family wishes to thank the nurses and staff and Hawkeye Care Center, especially Angela and Hanna Grass; Dr. Sullivan and his nurses and Hospice of Dubuque for their unending care and support.

A Norma Stanley memorial fund has been established.

Joan B. (Giza) Chally

Joan B. (Giza) Chally, 83, of Cedar Rapids and formerly of Monticello passed away peacefully Monday, December 16, 2019, surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will begin at 10 am Saturday, December 21, 2019, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 8300 C Ave NE in Marion where a funeral service will commence at 12:00 Noon. Following lunch at church, burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello. Rev. Steve Qualben will officiate.

Joan’s life was spent nurturing her very large family. She and her husband Dale owned and operated a restaurant and they owned the Millhurst Resort in Illinois. Joan was in charge of the riding stables, which kept her close to her passion of horses. She worked along with her husband in several businesses and finally farming. She later worked as an OMT at the Jones County County Home for almost 20 years.

Left to cherish her memory are her children, Rod Chally (Jan Jemison), Robin (Earl) Basham, of Cedar Rapids, Tamie (Wendell) Singsaas, Fontana CA, Todd (Teresa) Chally, Anamosa, Lori (Bill) Johnston, Karen Chally, Cedar Rapids and Scott (Patricia) Chally, Monticello, her grandchildren, Jerod (Lindsey) Chally, Jesse (Michelle) Coohey, Justin Coohey, Zantz McConnell (Julitta Weber), Kimberly Brewer, Jason (Christine) Brewer, Cole Singsaas, Heather (Joshua) Sproston, Jennifer Chally (Tony Puetz), Erika Chally, Joanie (Cliff) Hedlund, Cody Johnston (Haley Gillen), Tyler Johnston (Sara Hedlund), Logan Johnston, Alexander, Nickolas, Christian (Alexia Salyars), Janik, Vanessa & Dominik Chally and Stevie Neilson, granddaughters-in-law, Kelly and Amy Basham and 24 great grandchildren, her brother, Louis (Terri) Stemmet, her sister-in-law, June Thompson, her brother-in-law, Leonard Jr (Leora) Chally and her puppies, Molly and Maddy.

She was welcomed to heaven by her husband, Dale, parents, Louis and Bernadine (Szczepanski) Giza, parents-in-law, Leonard & Bertha (Lundy) Chally and sisters-in-law, Vivian Walker, Darlene Brugh & Barbara Johnson.

Her family would like to deeply thank the staff of St. Lukes Hospital, Unity Point Hospice and Pastor Steve for all of their support.

Memorials can be made in Joan’s honor to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 8300 C Ave, Marion, IA 52302.

Jannan L. Hancock

Jannan L. Hancock, 92, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully to be reunited with the love of her life on Monday, December 16, 2019, at the Dubuque Specialty Care Initiatives.

Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until 2:00 PM Friday, December 20, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The funeral service for Mrs. Hancock will be 2:00 PM Friday, December 20, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service with Sister Julia Wingert officiating. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens in Dubuque.

Jannan was born on February 3, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Reinhardt and Helen Doerr Schmidt. On August 23, 1947, she married William (Bill on the Hill) Hancock in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 18, 1991 at the young age of 66.

Prior to becoming a full-time loving mother and homemaker, Jannan was employed at the Dubuque Battery Factory. Together they raised four children who all enjoyed traveling and showing quarter horses. Mom was always packing up the motorhome for the next weekend of horse shows. Although she never rode any of the horses, she enjoyed helping everyone get ready and making sure the horses were ready and the outfits were cleaned. She always enjoyed shopping and later in life, she enjoyed going to bingo three times a week – and was a lucky winner most of the time!

Those left to cherish Jannan’s memory include: Richard (Toni) Hancock of Dubuque, Beverly (Steve) Kraus of Dubuque, Connie (Steve) Easland of Cottage Grove, WI, and Randy (Lori) Hancock of Peosta. She also has eight grandchildren that she loved spending time with whenever she could; plus 14 adorable great-grandchildren who loved talking to her and fighting to push great-grandma’s wheelchair!  She is also survived by one brother, Harold “Bud” Schmidt of Kansas City, KS and her sister-in-law, Ora Schmidt of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her grandson, Richard Majerus, a sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Ray Hingtgen, brothers, Raymond and Melvin Schmidt, a sister-in-law, Vernetta Schmidt, and brother-in-law, Bob Richey.

The family requests no flowers.

Jannan’s family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Care Initiatives for the wonderful care and support they gave mom these past couple of years. They all treated mom like she was their own grandmother. Also, thank you to Dr. Angella Kelly and her nurse Jennifer for all the great care you gave mom over the years.

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

Anna M. Reding Kramer

Anna Margaret Reding Kramer, age 104, passed away on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, at Bethany Home in Dubuque, Iowa. 

The Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Saturday, December 28, 2019, at Cathedral of St. Raphael, 231 Bluff St.  Visitation will precede the Mass from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the church.  Burial will be at Visitation Catholic Church Cemetery in Stacyville, Iowa at a later date, to be announced.

Anna was born in Randolph, Nebraska April 20, 1915 and moved with her family at age 3 to Stacyville, Iowa.  James Reding and his brother, John, traveled with the cattle and their families went by train. 

Anna and her siblings attended Visitation grade and high school in Stacyville.  Anna played soprano saxophone in high school and could play clarinet and harmonica as well.  Her twin, Alvena, played violin.  Anna graduated from Visitation High School in 1933 and continued to live on the farm with her parents until she married Ruben Kramer in 1937; in 1939 the couple purchased a farm one mile south of the Reding farm.

Anna and Ruben belonged to and were active in Visitation Catholic Church in Stacyville.  Anna was a 4-H leader and active in her church circle.  Anna and Ruben played cards for entertainment – Solo, 500, Euchre.

Ruben and Anna sold their farm and retired to homes in Osage, Iowa, and Florida.  Ruben was diagnosed with ALS in 1980.  For the last five years of his life, he was ventilator dependent and had decreasing muscle strength; Anna cared for him in their home.  Ruben died in 1990 and Anna continued to live in the Osage home.
Anna moved to a retirement community in Dubuque, Iowa, in 2008 and to a nursing facility in 2018.

Kramer was preceded in death by her parents, James and Anna (Gubbels) Reding,sisters Mary Pitzen (Alfred) and Alvena Brown (Adrian), two brothers, Joseph and Melvin (Bernice), son-in-law J. Monte Pakieser, and great-grandson Ruben Thomas Weibel of Baton Rouge, LA.  She is survived by children Ruth Pakieser Macnamara (J. Terry) of Bennington, Nebraska, Marvin (Louise) of Overland Park, Kansas, Dorothy Jean Kollasch (David) of Verona, Wisconsin, and Kathryn Coyle (Michael) of Dubuque,Iowa, 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Anna had a sense of history; living from horse/buggy to the computer age.  She told tales of wandering gypsies, Indians, itinerant tramps, horses and Model T’s on mud roads, the Great Depression, World War II, the Korean War and working through day-to-day life and weather on the farm.  She was a strong supportive farm wife, cooking for hired men, tending livestock and chickens, field planting and harvesting, gardening, and preserving produce.  Anna had a long and fruitful life.

Anna’s family would like to thank Dr. Konz and her nurse Sherry, Dr. Meuer, Dr. Hunter Fuerste, Dr. Chung, Dr. Nyabuti and the wonderful, caring staffs at Bethany Home, Unity Point Health – Finley Hospital, No Place Like Home, and Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional care. 

Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Dubuque, Make-A-Wish Foundation of Iowa or Bethany Home. 

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

Jane E. Tart

Jane Elizabeth Tart, 96, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, December 16, 2019, at Luther Manor.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 21, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, where friends may greet the family from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Rev. Loren Shellabarger will officiate. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, December 20, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Private interment will take place at a later date at Lake Geneva Cemetery, Alexandria, MN.

Jane was born November 29, 1923, in Brooten, MN, the daughter of John Bennett and Anna Marie (Nelson) Wall. She was raised alongside three sisters, who were famously known as “the four Walls” (you couldn’t get them all in one picture!). She married Orley Tart on April 8, 1950, in Brooten, MN. He preceded her in death on January 1, 2000.

Jane graduated from the University of Minnesota, and taught home economics with Dubuque Community Schools for 25 years, retiring in 1987.

She was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, where she sang in the choir, and was also a member of the Evening Circle. In addition, she was a member of the TTT Chapter DI, the CLIO Club, the Learn and Earn Investment Club, Dubuque Teachers Association, National Education Association, and the Wednesday morning breakfast club with the retirees from Washington Jr. High School.

Jane loved to read, sew, cook, and travel the world. Socializing with friends and family was a favorite pastime. She was well known for her dinners that included “Happy Hour,” when she would tell her famous Ole & Lena jokes, complete with Norwegian accent. Jane was a devoted mother and wife, and will be sadly missed.

Jane is survived by her children, Christine (Eric Funkenbusch) Tarte of Hudson, WI, Kathleen (Greg) Davis of Des Moines, IA, Steven O. (Nancy) Tart of Palatine, IL, and Richard Tart of Bonita Springs, FL; six grandchildren, Erika (nee Funkenbusch) (Chris McPherson) Kopp, Kimberly L. (nee Tucker) (Dominick) Di Paolo, Thatcher (Candy Dacus) Davis, Benjamin Davis, Sonia Funkenbusch, and Adam Funkenbusch; 10 great grandchildren, Makayla, Annika, Jack, Ian, Zachery, Chase, Dominick Jr., Nolan, Jackson, and Autumn Jane; and her sister, Ruby Hockey of Cedar Falls, IA.

Memorials may be made to the Jane Tart Memorial Fund for later donation to Westminster Presbyterian Church and TTT Chapter DI Girl’s Camp Fund.

Jane’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff at Luther Manor for their care of Jane.

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

John A. Flynn

John A. Flynn, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 15th, 2019 at Bethany Home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 20th, 2019 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. David Schatz officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, December 19th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

John was born on October 22, 1936 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Frank and Catherine Isabel (Cain) Flynn. He graduated from St. Columbkille High School and Loras College in Dubuque.

On October 24, 1961, John married Carol Lee Essman in Dubuque, and they were blessed with 58 years of marriage.

John owned and operated Flynn Company Inc. until his retirement. He served in the Iowa National Guard; was a member of the 330 Club, Iowa Concrete Paving Association, Frentress Lake Yacht Club, Dubuque Bird Dog Club and Big Brothers and Big Sisters club.

John enjoyed hunting, fishing and golf. His recent passion was playing cards with a great group of friends. He liked the Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Bears; and he was never one to miss a good fire. He also enjoyed keeping up with the Flynn Co. when paving after his retirement with them.

He is survived by his wife Carol; children, Jeff (Tammy) Flynn, of Dubuque, Ann (Mike) Martin, of Litchfield, New Hampshire, Mike (Cindy) Flynn, of Dubuque, and Carrie (Jeremie) Livingston, of Winter Park, Colorado. Two grandchildren, Halle Flynn and Flynn Livingston; step granddaughter Crista (Will) Fischer and great granddaughter Annie Fischer. His two sisters, Mary Meyer, of Arizona and Jane Rodell, of Illinois; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and his honorary son Nick Moler with Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

John was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers-in-law Tom Meyer and Jerry Rodell.

In lieu of flowers please direct memorials to the John Flynn memorial fund.

John’s family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care they gave to John. Also, a special thank you to his card playing and fishing friends.