Obituaries Archive

Sister Dolores Grasse

Sister Dolores (Theodosius) Grasse, OP, died Friday, August 2, 2019, at St. Dominic Villa. Her funeral Mass will be at the Sinsinawa Motherhouse, at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 10, 2019. The remembering service will be there at 6:30 p.m., Friday, August 9.

Sister Dolores taught in several high schools in Nebraska, Wisconsin, Alabama, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Iowa. She served as registrar and in other administrative positions at Edgewood College, Madison, Wis. (1970-1998). She was appointed secretary of the congregation (1998-2001) and served in other offices at the Motherhouse before joining the community at St. Dominic Villa in 2013.

In 1933, Dolores was born in Sheboygan, Wis., to Theodore and Lucile (Pangier) Grasse.

Kathryn Wördehoff

Kathryn “Kay” Wordehoff, 98, of Dubuque, passed away Saturday, August 3, 2019, at Sunset Park Place.

Friends may greet the family from 12 p.m. until the 3 p.m. funeral service on Wednesday, August 7, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque. Rev. Dianne Grace will officiate. Interment will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Kathryn was born April 29, 1921 on the family farm in Dubuque, the daughter of Raymond and Ursula (Gottschalk) Jecklin. She was educated at Riverside School, a one-room schoolhouse, and went on to graduate from Dubuque Senior High School with the class of 1939. During her senior year, she met Merle Wordehoff in Business English Class, and they later married on June 8, 1943 at Immanuel Church of Christ. He preceded her in death on May 27, 2004.

Kathryn was employed over the years at Farley & Loetscher, Caradco, Stampfer’s, and Roshek’s.  She was a fantastic bowler and golfer, who always stayed active, mowing the lawn into her late 70’s. Fishing, camping, and vacationing at lakes in Wisconsin and Minnesota were special times for her. She loved the White Sox, and hated the Cubs. Kathryn also enjoyed sewing, needlepoint, and playing euchre. She loved to bake and cook-including wild game! She loved babysitting the grandkids, and was known to spoil them just a little.

Kathryn is survived by two sons, David (Carol) Wordehoff of Guttenberg and Steve (JoAnn) Wordehoff of Asbury; three grandchildren, Laurie (Jeremy) Hansel of Waverly, IA, Joe Wordehoff of Dubuque, and Pamela (Dr. Nick) Hartl of Kearney, NE.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Charlotte DeArco and Vi (Robert) Cooper; and several sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.

Memorials may be made to the Kathryn Wordehoff Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff at Sunset Park Place for their care of Kathryn.

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

Mildred A. Conzett

Mildred “Milly” Ann Conzett, 91, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at Luther Manor Grand Meadows. Mass of Christian Burial will be at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista on Saturday, August 10, at 10:30 a.m. Msgr. James Miller will officiate along with Milly’s Godson, Deacon Mike Conzett from Omaha, NE. Interment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, August 9, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 6:30 p.m.

Milly, born October 29, 1927 in Dyersville, IA, was the daughter of Gerhard and Alma (Heming) Tegeler. She graduated from St. Francis Xavier High School in 1945. She married Dale C. Conzett on November 26, 1949 in Dyersville. He preceded her in death on February 9, 1993. Milly attended Bayless Business College and was employed by Dr. Anthony Pfohl during her early career. She later worked as a teller and trained new tellers for American Trust & Savings Bank for twenty years before retiring in 1990. She was a long-time member of the Church of the Nativity. In addition to raising six children and caring for her mother in her later years, Milly enjoyed traveling, the arts, volunteering at church, singing in the church and bank choirs, involvement in Mothers’ Club, and volunteering at Four Mounds. Milly and Dale were recipients of the Governor’s Volunteer Award in 1992 for their service with the Iowa Department of Human Services in Dubuque.

Milly is survived by her children Julie (Jerry Chase) Woodyard of Dubuque, Lynn (Jim) Wacker of Bellevue, Nancy (Ron) Muecke of Ankeny, Jonathan (Julie) Conzett of West Des Moines, and Amy (John) Carpenter of Cody, WY; eleven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; one sister, Ethel Mc Creedy of Cedar Rapids, two sisters-in-law, Lorraine Tegeler of Dubuque, and Bernadette Tegeler of Onalaska, WI; and her brother- and sister-in-law Harold and Darlene Conzett of Dubuque.

In addition to her husband, Milly was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter Kathleen Ross; three sisters, Marie Tegeler, Clara Wall, and Catherine Tegeler; and three brothers, Joe, Ralph and Leo Tegeler.

Her family will especially miss Milly’s quick wit and playful teasing, hospitality, generosity, deep abiding faith, and her great sense of style!

Milly’s family wishes to express their sincerest gratitude to the Mercy 3W staff, Grand Meadow’s Dubuque and Butler House staff, and Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional and compassionate care. Memorials can be directed to DuRide, Hospice of Dubuque or the Dubuque Arts Council.

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

Paul E. O’Meara

Paul E. O’Meara, age 93, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:25 a.m., on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation. To honor Paul’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, August 8, 2019, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating. To celebrate Paul’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, August 8, 2019, at St. Patrick’s Church. Burial will be in St. John Cemetery, Placid, Iowa. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Paul was born on May 20, 1926, in Farley, Iowa, the third child of Martin E. and Mary M. (Tench) O’Meara.

Paul moved to Dubuque when he was 8 years old and has been a resident ever since, spending the last 29 years at Eccumenical Towers. He honorably served his country with the U.S. Army for 5 years during the Korean War. Paul had an excellent work ethic and was employed with Western Auto before going into the service and after he returned home he went to work in the shipping department at Stampfer’s Department Store for 23 years. After the store closed he then went to work for Rural Insurance Company until his retirement. He was a faith filled man, a loyal member of St. Patrick’s Church for over 60 years, and was also a member of the Dubuque County Right to Life. In his free time, Paul enjoyed listening to the local news and Hawkeye football on the radio and watching golf on tv.

Paul is survived by several cousins.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and a sister and a brother in infancy.

Paul’s family would like to thank the wonderful drivers from Meals on Wheels for their kindness and the help they provided for Paul. Also thanks to the nurses and staff members of Mercy Hospital and Ennoble Manor, we truly appreciate all you have done for Paul.

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

Gerald F. Burds

Gerald F. “Jerry” Burds, 73, of 3032 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dubuque, died Saturday, August 3, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center, Cascade. following a courageous battle with leukemia.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 7, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.  Fr. Steven Rosonke will officiate. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia.  Friends may call from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday, August 6, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road, where there will be a parish wake service at 6:30 p.m.

Jerry was born on June 29, 1946, in Cascade, son of Mary (Carroll) Burds and John “Jay” Burds, Sr.  He graduated from Aquin High School, Cascade, in 1965.

He married Patricia A. “Pat” McAleer on June 21, 1969, in Monticello.  Pat and Jerry enjoyed forty wonderful years of marriage prior to Pat’s death in 2009.

Jerry worked for Northwestern Bell and US West for 31 years, retiring in 1999.  During his retirement, he was a courtesy driver for Anderson-Weber Toyota Lincoln.

He was a member at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

Jerry enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Green Bay Packers, and NASCAR.  During his retirement, he restored a 1952 John Deere Model A tractor similar to the one used on his childhood farm.  He enjoyed driving his tractor each summer in the WMT Tractorcade.  He also took annual fishing trips to Canada with friends from the Telephone Company. Jerry loved driving his Mustang to Ankeny to visit his grandchildren for their birthdays and holidays.  He and Pat will be remembered for their hospitality and making their home a welcoming place for friends and family to relax and have fun.

Surviving are his two sons, Stephen (Colin) Burds, of Ankeny, and Kevin Burds, of Sandpoint, Idaho; four grandchildren, Annika, Maya, Calleigh, and Nicholas Burds, all of Ankeny; three siblings, Joan (Phil) Weber, Colleen Bertinetti, and Will (Kathy) Burds; and in-laws Janice Curoe, Jan McAleer, Joe (Shelly) McAleer, Steve (Marlene) McAleer, Dan (Sally) McAleer, Mary Jo Roller, and Kathy (Dan) Reyner.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pat; his parents, Jay and Mary Burds; his oldest brother, Jack Burds; a sister-in-law, Joyce Curoe; and brother-in-laws, Bob Curoe, John Curoe, and Tom McAleer.

A Gerald Burds Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Helen K. Laban

Helen Kathryn (Otting) Laban, of Bernard, Iowa, passed away at 8 pm on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Helen may call from 3 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, August 7, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 3 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Thursday at the Funeral Home.

Services for Helen will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 8, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Concelebrating will be Rev. Paul Otting. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Garryowen, Iowa.

Helen was born on December 20, 1919 to Joseph and Kathryn (Ressler) Otting and was the second youngest of 13 children. She attended St. Patrick’s school, Garryowen and at age 19 married Andy Laban on September 26, 1939 at St. Patrick’s Church. He preceded her in death on January 11, 1986.

Helen was raised on a farm just west of Bernard and after their marriage, she and Andy raised their family of seven children on a farm near St. Patrick’s Church, North Garryowen, where they were lifetime members. Over the years they milked Brown Swiss cows, raised Shorthorn cattle, hogs, chickens, geese and crops for their livestock. Throughout her long life, she loved gardening and growing flowers of all different varieties. Spring was her favorite season when she could hunt mushrooms, and fish for bullheads in their pond. She was also a voracious reader. She loved to bake breads and cookies, especially for her family whom she loved most of all. She was a 4-H leader for all of her children over the years and always looked forward to the Jackson County Fair. After Andy’s passing in 1986, she remained on the homeplace until she was 95.

She spent the last four years at Shady Rest Care Center where she was well cared for and was known and loved by all for her quick wit, sense of humor, and sweet demeanor. Helen lived a full and wonderful life, full of family and friends who will forever feel the impact of her love, wisdom, and devotion.

Helen is survived by her children, Shirley (Linus) McDermott of Cascade, IA, Joe (Linda) Laban and Bob (Mary Lee) Laban both of Bernard, IA, Kathy (Gary) Wosoba of Monmouth, IA, Micki (Steve) Roe of LeMars, IA, Bill (Janet) Laban of Dubuque, IA and Julie (Greg) Leytem of Swisher, IA. She has 34 grandchildren and many, many great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Andy, infant daughter, Mary Katherine, great-grand daughter Amy Gavin, and great-grandson Ryder Mendelke, and five brothers and seven sisters.

Thank you to Sherry Kelchen and the staff at Shady Rest Care Center for their wonderful care over the past 4 years. Also, thank you to Fr. Doug Loecke for his many visits.

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

Eleanor E. Boll

Eleanor E. “Ellie” Boll, 74, of Epworth, Iowa formerly of Centralia, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at her home in Epworth, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Eleanor may call from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, August 3, 2019 at St. John’s the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa.

Services for Eleanor will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, August 3, 2019 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Centralia, IA.

Eleanor was born June 12, 1945 in Beloit, Wisconsin, daughter of Bernard and Bernice (Lovell) Baker. She was raised and educated in West Salem, WI. She was the youngest of ten children. On November 9, 1979 she was united in marriage to Richard Boll in Dubuque, Iowa.

She is survived by her husband, Richard “Dick” Boll of Epworth, IA; three sons, David (Donna) Digman of Richland, MO, Joseph (Kristie) Boll of Bettendorf, IA and William (Katherine) Boll of Joliet, IL; a daughter, Denise Moon of Albuquerque, NM; 9 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; one brother, Phillip Baker of Nebraska; a brother-in-law, Donald Schwartzhoff of Waukon, IA ; three sisters-in-law, Debbie (Roger) Wernimont of Peosta, IA, Donna Augustin (Tom Riniker) and Penny (Dave Hayes) Koehler both of Dubuque, IA.

She is also preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, four sisters, and a brother-in-law.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Betsy, Edna, and Julie for taking good care of Ellie in her final days. Also thank you to Bonnie Hancock, who retired from Hospice, for her help during this process.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Evelyn C. Kloft

Evelyn C. (Ernst) Kloft, 85 of Bellevue, most recently of Louisville, KY, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2019 at Forest Springs Health Campus in Louisville, KY.

Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on August 8th, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 8th at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue prior to the Mass. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Evelyn was born November 21, 1933, the daughter of John R. and Hilda S. (Hoxmeier) Ernst. She worked at Ensign (Bellevue) and John Deere Works 1976-1996 (Dubuque). Evelyn enjoyed painting with oil and acrylics, ceramics, crocheting, and collecting glass ware.

Survivors include her children, Leonard (Kathleen) , Loren (Jenny), and Lyle (Peg) Kloft; four grandchildren (Elizabeth, Heather, Alex, and Megan); and three great-grandchildren (Cayleigh, Orion, and Fionn). Evelyn’s surviving siblings are Ken (Judie) Ernst and Loras (LaDonna) Ernst.

Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents.

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

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

Jerry J. Stecklein

Jerry “Jed” J. Stecklein, age 63, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2019 at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with the Rev. Steve Rosonke officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jerry was born on July 1st, 1956 in Dubuque, son of Leonard and Louise Stecklein. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1974.  Jerry married June Maneman on April 23, 1977.  He enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren, woodworking, and watching the Atlanta Braves, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Chicago Bears. He was a dedicated youth and high school basketball referee that thoroughly enjoyed every second on the court.

Jerry is survived by his wife of 42 years, June.  His Children, Erin (Mark) Hefel of Dubuque , Amy (Kyle) Phillips of St Louis, MO , Adam (Catherine) Stecklein  of Peoria, IL and Allie Stecklein  of Davenport, IA. His grandchildren Bailey, Ben and Annie Hefel, Sam and Max Phillips, Finley and Owen Stecklein.   His siblings, Theresa Houselog, of Milwaukee WI, Kathy (Morrie) Klocker of Dubuque, Betty (Norm) Zimmer of Dubuque, Mary (Jim) Smith of Columbia MO, Lenny (Diane) Stecklein of Milwaukee, WI, Denny (Nancy) Stecklein of Dubuque, Luann (Dan) Hillary of Dubuque.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Leonard and Louise Stecklein. His father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harold and Bernice Maneman. His brother-in-law Wayne Houselog.

Harry D. Saunders

Harry D. “Pops” Saunders, 72, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2019 surrounded by his family. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 pm Sunday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where private funeral services will be held at a later date.

Harry was born December 17, 1946 in Brunswick, Missouri, son of Harry Lee and Ann C. (Jordan) Saunders.

He enjoyed fishing, and playing cards and dominos. Harry loved enjoying time with his kids, grandkids, and neighbors.

He is survived by four children, Marsha Saunders, Curt (Sherry) Saunders, Laura (Jay) Reding and Tyrell Saunders, all of Dubuque; 16 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He is also survived by seven siblings.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his oldest son, William Saunders; and 13 siblings.

The family would like to thank Dr.s Hermann, Kumor and Powers and their staffs, as well as his nurse, Travis, Racheal Bartle and the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital and St. Croix Hospice for all of their care.

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

Carolyn A. Visser

Carolyn A. Visser, age 74 of Dubuque, Iowa completed her earthly journey suddenly on August 1, 2019 at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital Dubuque, with her dear friend, Linda, by her side.  To celebrate Carolyn’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 16, 2019, at 2:00 p.m. in the Hadley Chapel, Hillcrest Family Services Campus, 2005 Asbury Road, Dubuque, Iowa with Rev. Diane Christopher officiating. Family and friends of Carolyn may gather to visit prior to the service from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. in Hadley Chapel. Burial will be in the Forest Cemetery in Oskaloosa, Iowa at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Carolyn’s family.

Carolyn was born on November 21, 1944 in Albia, Iowa, a daughter to Reanus and Opal (Hartness) Visser. Carolyn was raised to appreciate the gift of giving of herself for the good of others.  This positive character trait developed quickly at a very early age and she soon became committed to spending her life in the classroom as one of the teachers her students would remember long into their adult lives. She had worked diligently towards her goal and in 1966 she finally earned her degree and headed full steam ahead into the Dubuque Community School District.  She lovingly invested over 40 years of her time and talents at Franklin School, Lincoln School, Table Mound School and eventually completed her career at Sageville School before retiring in 2007.  Carolyn enjoyed every opportunity she had to work with her children and thankfully there have been many 1st and 2nd graders throughout the years who were truly blessed to be as cared for in their classroom during the day, as they were at home in the evening, when Ms. Visser was at the desk.

Carolyn was a kind and gentle soul who continually put others before herself.  Her creative spirit was always on display and her zest for life came in 2nd only to her love and respect for family and friends. We will miss Carolyn more than mere words could accurately depict, but we also accept that we are absolutely blessed to have been given so many wonderful years to build lasting memories with her during Carolyn’s time with us.  We thank you, Carolyn, for all of the generosity and love you gave so freely, and may the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Carolyn include,

her friend and caretaker,
Linda Schneider, Dubuque, Iowa,
and their 3 fur babies, Snickers, Muffin and Lulu;

her sister,
Sally Hanson, Seattle, Washington;

her sister-in-law,
Sharon Visser, Traer, Iowa;

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

Carolyn was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Phyllis (Larry) Smith; her brother, Lee Visser; and her brother-in-law, Dr. Don Hanson.

Carolyn’s family and friends would like to thank the nurses and staff at Finley Hospital ICU for all of their professional care and compassionate support; above all Dr. Whalen, Carolyn’s faithful doctor for 36 years.  In addition, we would like to acknowledge the mini-bus drivers who treated Carolyn with such kindness when transporting her to dialysis, along with all of the nurses and staff at Tri-State Dialysis who gave her such loving support.

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

Elizabeth L. Donahue

Elizabeth L. “Betty” (Arthofer) Donahue, age 82, of Dubuque, was called home suddenly at on Wednesday, July 31, 2019, at home, with her loving husband and son by her side. To celebrate Betty’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, August 5, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Betty was born on February 7, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Peter and Charlotte (Finzel) Arthofer.

Betty was united in marriage to the love of her life, Joseph Donahue, on January 28, 1956, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. She was always a hard worker, and was employed with Brown Publishing for 28 years, until health issues led to her retirement in 1996. Betty was a homemaker at heart and loved caring for her family and keeping her home neat and orderly. Talking to her sister-in-law, Joyce, on the phone was something she looked forward to daily. Betty also enjoyed spending her Sunday afternoons watching NASCAR, rooting on her favorite drivers, Jeff Gordon and after his retirement Joey Logano. Beyond a doubt, Betty’s greatest joy was found in time spent with Joe, the boys and especially the grandchildren. We are deeply saddened at losing Betty so suddenly, but take some comfort in the knowledge that she is now resting peacefully, free of the health challenges she has faced so bravely these past years.

Those left to cherish Betty’s memory include

her husband of 63 years,
Joseph “Joe” Donahue, Dubuque, IA;

her son,
Roger Donahue, Dubuque, IA;

her daughter-in-law,
Debbie Freking, Dyersville, IA;

her grandchildren,
Trevor Donahue, Tanner Donahue, Mike McDonald and Jennifer Donahue;

her great-grandchildren,
Jordan Donahue and Jayden Donahue;

her siblings,
Chuck Arthofer,
Jim (Judy) Arthofer
and Mike (Maize) Arthofer, all of Dubuque, IA;

a brother-in-law,
Richard Burns, Des Moines, IA;

and a goddaughter,
Tina Burns, Des Moines, IA.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; 2 sons, Jim Donahue and Mike Donahue; her siblings, Rosie (Ben) Greenwood, Elsie Burns and Boniface “Bunny” Arthofer; and her sister-in-law, Joyce Arthofer.

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

Celestine A. Sigwarth

Celestine A. “Cele” Sigwarth, age 91, of Holy Cross, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 2:00 a.m. on July 30, 2019, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Cele’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Balltown, Iowa, with Rev. Noah J. Diehm officiating. To celebrate Cele’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Tuesday, August 6, 2019, at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 468 Balltown Road, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 2:30 p.m., and a prayer service by the Farley American Legion Post 656 at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Farley American Legion Post 656. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Cele was born on October 16, 1927, near Balltown, Iowa, on the farm of his parents, John and Anna (Leick) Sigwarth.

Cele married Eleanor E. Heiberger on May 4, 1954, in Bankston. On the farm where Cele spent his childhood, he and Eleanor would farm for 59 years. Cele was also an Insurance Agent with Farley/Grinnell Mutual. He was a veteran who served from 1951-1953, as a PFC (Private First Class) – Acting Corporal with the U.S. Army at the 112th Infantry Regiment Headquarters – Intelligence Section in Germany during the Korean Conflict. Cele was a proud member of the Farley American Legion Post 656 for 60+ years and was recognized for the same.

Those left to cherish Cele’s memory include

his 3 children,
Joanie (Ron) Heitzman, Dubuque, IA,
Jeanie Sigwarth, Holy Cross, IA
and Jerry (Angie) Sigwarth Sr., Holy Cross, IA;

a daughter-in-law,
Dr. Nicky Fox, Columbia, MD;

8 grandchildren,
Justin (fiancé Nicole Trompeter) Heitzman, Seattle, WA,
Karl (Erica) Sigwarth, North Liberty, IA,
Valerie (fiancé Jesse Pullen) Heitzman, Dubuque, IA,
Jerry “J.P.” (Meggan) Sigwarth Jr., Holy Cross, IA,
Stacey (friend Mitch Bryson) Sigwarth, Dubuque, IA,
James Sigwarth, Columbia MD,
Darcy Sigwarth, Columbia, MD
and Tim Ruden Jr., Holy Cross, IA;

3 great-grandsons;

and his siblings,
Alice Link,
Marina Klein
and Lucilla Link, all of Dubuque, IA
and Louis Sigwarth, Balltown, IA.

Cele was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Eleanor; a son, John Sigwarth; and his siblings, Fr. Reynold Sigwarth, Armella Banwarth, Dorothy Klein and Werner Sigwarth.

The family wishes to extend a thank you to the staff of Dr. Jared Freiburger’s Medical Associates Office and of the Dubuque VA Office. Special gratitude and shout out to Hospice of Dubuque and staff, especially Tim, Tammie, Nichole and Ryan. With your support, Cele’s dream to remain at home was easily achieved.

Mary Anne Weidemann

Mary Anne (Erhart) Weidemann, age 77, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:25 p.m., on Monday, July 29, 2019, at home, surrounded by her loving family, after a 12 year battle with cancer. To honor Mary Anne’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Dwayne J. Thoman officiating. To celebrate Mary Anne’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m., until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, August 3, 2019, at Holy Ghost Church. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is in charge of arrangements.

Mary Anne was born on June 25, 1942, in San Diego, California, daughter of Vincent Leroy and Lela Winifred (Ledbetter) Erhart.

Mary Anne was a member of the first graduating class of Wahlert High School in 1960. After school, Mary Anne was employed with John Deere Dubuque Works for 5 years before meeting and marrying the love of her life. She was united in marriage to Wilfred J. “Bill” Weidemann on August 14, 1965, at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, and would happily embrace her new role as a wife, mother and homemaker. When the children were grown, Mary Anne would reenter the workforce with the Church of the Nativity, until health issues led to her retirement. When she found some free time in her days, Mary Anne loved reading, listening to classical music or her beloved Beatles, especially Paul McCartney, or playing Scrabble and Canasta with family and friends. She also enjoyed attending plays and going to Music in the Park at Eagle Point Park and the Dubuque Arboretum. Mary Anne loved to sing and was an active member of the choirs at both the Church of the Nativity and Holy Ghost Church. Mary Anne’s faith was very important to her and she was an active participant of the prayer group with the Franciscan Associates. Family was above all the most important aspect of Mary Anne’s life, she loved taking family trips every year and especially looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with the grandchildren. We will miss our sweet wife, mom, grandma and sister more than words can say, and are extremely grateful for all of the wonderful memories we have created and will cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Mary Anne’s memory include

her loving husband of 53 years,
Wilfred “Bill” Weidemann, Dubuque, IA;

her 3 children,
Joe (Sarah Jane) Weidemann, Dubuque, IA,
Beth (Marty) Nay, Kansas City, MO
and Sarah Lela (Mason) Walton, Cedar Rapids, IA;

her 8 grandchildren,
Erica and Michael Weidemann,
Nicholas Springer and Zachary, Samantha and Abby Nay
and Stephanie and Andrew Walton;

her 8 siblings,
Jack (Pat) Erhart, Kirksville, MO,
Jim (Maureen) Erhart, Hawaii,
Ging (Ron) Hoefer, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Toni) Erhart, Keokuk, IA,
Terry (Rick) Kern, Minneapolis, MN,
Peg (Tom) Klun, Lakeland, MN,
Carol (Zulkiffili) Erhart-Abu, Chicago, IL
and Donna Erhart, Minneapolis, MN;

and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Anne was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, William “Bill” Erhart.

Mary Anne’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melanie and Julie, for all of their loving care and support of Mary Anne and her entire family.

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

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

Raymond C. DeNeve

Raymond Charles DeNeve, 84, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, at Regional Medical Center in Manchester after a 7-month-long battle with lung cancer. He was born on June 14, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, the youngest child of Rene and Helen (Yesalis) DeNeve. He graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he excelled as a varsity basketball player.  Ray went on to graduate from the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana, and taught in Missoula before accepting a fellowship at the University of Iowa where he earned a Masters in Special Education Administration. He then taught at Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, before joining the Keystone Area Education Agency where he supervised the delivery of support services to special needs children.

On July 14, 1973, Ray was united in marriage to Jane Phillips at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. Ray was an active participant in life. In his younger days he skied, was a certified PADI scuba diver, kayaker, practiced Taekwondo, did RAGBRAI fourteen times, hunted in Montana, and ran marathons. He enjoyed spending winters with Jane and family on South Padre Island, Texas. Ray was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church, the Masonic Lodge 165, and the American Legion Post 45, where he had served as commander.

Ray is survived by Jane, his wife of 46 years; his sister, Irene Grams of Buffalo Grove, Illinois; a half-brother, Joseph (Dawn) DeNeve; a nephew, Donal Armstrong and wife, Patricia, and their sons, Joseph (Alexandra) and Samuel (Grace); nieces and nephew, Linda (Mike Siekierski) Grams, Carol Walker, Cathy Robinson, Debi (John) Goggins, Joseph Sausman, and Lori Brown; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Madge and William Meese, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Catherine (Joe) Sausman and Helen (Joe) Armstrong; a brother-in-law, John Grams; nieces, Irene Grams Maag and Melanie Meese Sims; and great-nephew, Kyle William Stewart.

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

Mass of Christian Burial with Military Rites: 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 10, 2019, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Manchester, Iowa, with Rev. Gabriel Anderson officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 9, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester, Iowa, with a Masonic service at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. at the church on Saturday.