Obituaries Archive

Molly Jo Hayward

Molly Jo Hayward, 57, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, at her home in Maquoketa.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating Molly’s life will be held from 5 to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will held at the Esgate Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, at a later date.

Molly Jo Hayward was born on January 1, 1962 in Bellevue, Iowa, to Donald Levi and Charlene Mary (Heister) Hayward. She was a 1980 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School.
Molly had worked as a caregiver for many years. She had also been employed at Sunshine Day Care and lastly for B & C Liquor, both in Maquoketa.

Molly was an avid Chicago Bears fan. She enjoyed listening to music, shopping at secondhand stores, and playing cards, especially Euchre. Molly was a caregiver and burned the candle at both ends and it gave a lovely light. And it illuminated everybody who ever encountered her.

Molly is survived by her son, Zackary Michael Hayward of Maquoketa, IA; sisters, Lisa (Danny Sylvester) Belsan of Maquoketa, IA, Susan (Galen) Kremer of Maquoketa, IA, and Linda (Dr. Larry) Cammarata of Asheville, NC; brothers, Mike Hayward of Maquoketa, IA and Tom Stutting of Camanche, IA; nieces, Amanda (Allen) Belsan-Boston, and Marcie Davidson; nephews, Jo Stutting, Kevin Stutting, Tommy Stutting, and Wes Hayward; and several cousins including a 2nd cousin Megan Jo Hayward. She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorial contributions may be directed to the family online by donating at: https://fundthefuneral.com/molly-jo-hayward

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

Elizabeth J. Gibson

Elizabeth Jane “Betty” (Boxleiter) Gibson, age 95, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 3:45 a.m., on Saturday, April 27, 2019, at Bethany Home. To honor Betty’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Dwayne J. Thoman officiating. To celebrate Betty’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, May 2, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Betty was born on May 15, 1923, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of William J. and Irene (Hipschen) Boxleiter.

Betty was united in marriage to William J. Gibson, Jr., on September 2, 1943, in Savanna, Georgia, and they were blessed with 36 years together before he preceded her in death on February 28, 1980. She would later marry Joseph Sutton on June 20, 1984, at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque, but sadly he would pass away on May 3, 1988. Betty was a hard worker and was employed at General Dry Battery, Medical Associates in the housekeeping department, and at Xavier Hospital in the laundry. She was a faith filled woman and long time member of Holy Ghost Parish. In her free time, she enjoyed bowling and was a member of various bowling leagues, as well as a member of the Betty Club, the 62+ Club and Americlub. Betty was also very creative and enjoyed crocheting and making crafts. She enjoyed traveling and has been to several countries, including a 3 year stay in France, where her husband was stationed with the U.S. Army.

Those left to cherish Betty’s memory include

her children,
Lynn Ann Gibson, Dubuque, IA,
Carolyn M. Benson, Dubuque, IA,
Marianne L. (Jack) Burrell, Carthage, MS,
William J. (Joan) Gibson, Dubuque, IA
and James M. Gibson, Columbus, OH;

her 10 grandchildren;

her 21 great-grandchildren;

her 10 great-great-grandchildren;

her step-sons,
William (Gin) Sutton, Mohnton, PA
and James (Lynn) Sutton, Freeport, IL.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, William Gibson Jr., and Joseph Sutton; a grandson, Ronald Meyer; 2 sons-in-law, Bernard Benson and Dennis McDermott; a sister, Marian (Daniel) Murphy; and 2 brothers, Raymond (Stella) Boxleiter and Donald (Betty) Boxleiter.

Betty’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Bethany Home for all of their kind, loving and compassionate care of Betty these past years.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Bethany Home or the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

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

Larry E. Ries

Larry E. Ries, 69, of Dubuque died Saturday, April 27, 2019, surrounded by family at the University of Iowa City Hospital and Clinics after a work related accident.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., Thursday May 2, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, Dyersville, 750 12th Ave SW. Visitation will continue at Kramer Funeral Home from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Friday prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday May 3, 2019 at St. Boniface Catholic Church with burial in St. Boniface Cemetery in New Vienna. Fr. Carl Ries will officiate.

Larry was born December 19, 1949, in Dyersville, the son of Arthur and Louise (Goebel) Ries. He attended St. Boniface Schools and graduated from Beckman Catholic with the class of 1968. He earned his BA at Loras College and his law degree from the University of Iowa in 1977. Larry practiced law for several years, and then chose to pursue his love of the outdoors by starting his heavy equipment construction business. Larry said the best two days of his life were the days his daughters Lillian and Grace were born. Spending time on the family farm, visiting family, playing cards, and telling jokes brought him great joy.

Survivors include: his two daughters, Lillian Ries of Iowa City and Grace Ries of Dubuque, siblings: Fr. Carl Ries of Dyersville, Judy Ries of New Braunfels, TX, Nancy Ries of Downers Grove, IL, Susan (Steven) Shirk of Wilton, IA, Doris (Alan) Wessels of Dyersville, Dale (Karen) Ries of New Vienna, Barbara (Stanley Radio) Ries of Omaha, NE, Donna (Daniel) Drexler of Bettendorf, Connie (Dennis) Deutmeyer of Rye, NY, brother-in-law, Michael Wandry of Ankeny, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Sandra Ries-Wandry.

The family would like to thank the emergency and medical personnel who responded and cared for him.

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

Daniel J. Teasdale

Daniel Joe Teasdale, 42, of Dubuque, IA passed away Wednesday, April 24, 2019, at his home. Funeral service will be 10:30 AM, Thursday, May 2, 2019, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. Friends may call from 4 to 7 PM, Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Furlong Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Scales Mound, IL.

He was born May 26, 1976, in Cuba City, WI the son of his late father, Timothy and Susan (Keuter) Teasdale. Dan graduated from Scales Mound High School with the class of 1994. He was head banquet chef at the Concourse in Madison, WI for many years. Dan loved his family, motorcycles, basketball, and cooking. He will always be remembered for his ability to play practical jokes on everybody.

He is survived by his fiancee, Brittney Soppe, his children, Camilla, Kayla, Emmalyn and Treven Teasdale, his mother, Sue (Keenan) Steil, his paternal grandfather, Keith “Whitey” Teasdale, his siblings, Jeremy (Nicole) Teasdale, their children, Logan and Madeline, Christine (Rusty DeShaw) Teasdale their children, Trent and Harlee, Jesse (Jackie) Bell and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, paternal grandmother, Stella Teasdale and his maternal grandparents, Eldrew (Nancy) Keuter.

In lieu of flowers a Daniel J. Teasdale memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Dubuque Police Department, First Responders and EMT’s your kindness and compassion during this difficult time will never be forgotten.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Patrick Werner

Patrick Werner, age 75, of rural Dyersville, IA, died April 25, 2019, at Manor Care in Dubuque, after a long illness.

Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. April 28, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. The American Legion Post #137 will gather for a legion service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Monday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 29, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137. Rev. Dennis Conway will officiate, and Deacon Roger Riesberg will assist.

Pat was born January 19, 1944, in Dyersville, IA, to Bill and Rose (Whiting) Werner. He graduated from Maquoketa Valley High School in 1962 and then served in the U.S. Army from 1964 to 1967. He met his wife, Marilyn, in 1967, and they wed on August 10, 1968. They soon welcomed their daughters Kathy and Kris into their lives, followed a few years later by their son, Kevin.

Pat and his family lived in Dyersville for several years, where he worked as a service technician for Home Appliance (now Meyer Mechanical) until his retirement in 2003. In 1983 they moved to rural Dyersville to live on land once owned by his parents. It was there that Pat soon began work on a passion project that became one of his proudest accomplishments – what we affectionately know today as “Pat’s Pond.” Pat spent many nights working tirelessly to begin excavation, then later hired an earth mover to shape the pond into its current form. Pat enjoyed watching the pond and the variety of wildlife that frequented it. He also enjoyed the company of family and friends who came to visit and enjoy the pond and the wonderful fishing opportunities it provided.

In 2002, Pat was diagnosed with lung cancer but battled back against it. The cancer returned in 2006, and while doctors were able to successfully treat it, he began to experience several other complications from the disease. Despite the challenges, Pat continued to enjoy a full life for as long as he was able, attending the airshow at Osh Kosh several times and also traveling to Florida to visit his daughter Kris. His determination and courage in the face of the obstacles is an inspiration to his family.

He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; daughter, Kathy (Tom) DeBower of Carpenter, IA and their daughters: Emily and Lindsey; daughter, Kristine (Justin) Matthews of Fort Walton Beach, FL and their sons: Cameron and Christopher “CJ”; son, Kevin (Andrea) Werner of Springville, IA and their son, Kaleb; siblings: Jackie (Arnie) Merkes of Manchester, Richard (LaVerne Cross) Werner of Mesa, AZ, Bob (Cheryl) Werner of Grimes, Ed (Sue) Werner of Epworth, Sue (Ron) McDermott of Mt. Vernon, Steve (Linda) Werner of Dyersville, in-laws: Beth (Ed) Whisler of Dubuque, John (Ruth) Jaeger of Manchester, Leo (Diane) Jaeger of Kenton, OH, Leroy Jaeger of Earlville, Loras (Mikki) Jaeger of Davenport, and several nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Sylverius and Coletta (Pottebaum) Jaeger, brother, Dan, sister, Janet (David) Mescher, and several of his in-laws.

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

Delores M. Morley

Delores M. (Duffy) Morley, age 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, April 24, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Delores’ life, Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, April 29, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue, with Rev. Dwayne J. Thoman officiating. To celebrate Delores’ life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m., until 6:00 p.m., on Sunday, April 28, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 5:30 pm. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Delores was born on May 1, 1927, in Masonville, Iowa, daughter of Clem and Janie (Heffernan) Duffy.

Delores was raised on the farm with her 8 brothers and sisters, and after graduating high school went to work with the General Dry Battery Factory in Dubuque. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Eugene W. Morley, on May 18, 1946, in Elkader, Iowa. They would go on to raise 4 wonderful children, and be blessed with 44 years together, before Eugene was sadly called home ahead of her on December 15, 1990. After they married, Delores happily settled into her role of devoted wife, mother and homemaker, her family meant the world to her. After the children were grown, she would re-enter the workforce with Family Mart, working the deli and making their delicious turkey and dressing. Throughout her life, Delores had a deep devotion to her Catholic faith, she supported many Catholic charities, and was a long time member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She loved helping others and was a very active member of several groups including, T.O.P.S. of Dubuque, the Wa Tan Ye Service Club, and the Dubuque Sertoma Club, where she was named Sertoman of the Year. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our sweet mom, grandma and great-grandma, but are truly blessed with the countless wonderful memories we have created together and will cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Delores’ memory include

her children,
Jean Ann (Dennis) Althaus, St. Donatus, IA,
Pam (John) Morgan, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Cathy) Morley, Dubuque, IA
and Sue Ellen Hoppman, East Dubuque, IL;

her 9 grandchildren,
Tim (Mary) Althaus, Becky (Andy Sawvell) Morgan, Jenni (Phil) McKernan, Melissa (A.J.) Stochl, Michael (Danielle Koos) Hoppman, Madison Hoppman, Katie (Josh Williams) Morley, Kristy (Steve) Denlinger and Bryan (Carrie Johll-Worthington) Morley;

her 10 great-grandchildren,
Nora Sawvell, Jordan Donahue, Logan and Elliot McKernan, Arianna, Jameson and Jackson Stochl, Kaylee and Madalyn Worthington and Charleigh Denlinger;

a brother-in-law,
Harry Schuster, Dubuque, IA;

2 step-sisters-in-law,
Rita Vogt and Jan Vogt;

and several nieces and nephews.

Delores was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Eugene Morley; 5 sisters, Letiticia (Harold) Hartman, Donna (Don) Smock, Jean Schuster, Margie (Martin) McMahon and Marlene (Irving) Hubbard; 3 brothers, Leo, Boniface and Cecil (Marilyn) Duffy; her in-laws, Ross (Hazel) Morley and Mary Morley; a sister-in-law, Arnetha (Dwayne) Marting; and 3 step-brothers-in-law, Raymond Vogt, John (Naomi) Vogt and Jim Vogt.

Delores’ family would like to thank the outstanding nurses and staff of Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind, attentive and professional care of Delores 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

Vickie A. Dolter

Vickie A. Dolter, 65 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 22, 2019 at MercyOne Medical Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 29th, 2019 at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church with Rev. Andrew Mensah officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 28th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 4:30p.m.

Vickie was born on May 25, 1953, in Dubuque, the eldest of five children to Duwane and Betty (Wagner) Hingtgen, also of Dubuque. She graduated from Wahlert High School in 1971 and began working at American Trust & Savings Bank. She then followed in her father’s footsteps to John Deere Dubuque Works in 1977, retiring in June 2015 after 38 years of service.

Vickie loved to play cards, hang out with her cat Tuxie and in later years became interested in tracing her ancestry. Her greatest discovery was that she was a descendent of Christopher Beeks, making her a Daughter of the American Revolution. Beeks was a prisoner in England whose life was spared when he was sent to America by the King to fight against the colonists. But when he arrived, he found the colonists had a valid complaint, so he fought WITH them against England in the American Revolution! Good thing too… The colonists won …. Or so the story goes. And the rest is history.

Vickie worked with Steve King (Kiron, IA) during his work as Iowa State Senator and later in his successful campaign for Congressman of the Fifth District for the State of Iowa. Vickie dedicated much of her time to helping countless families in the state of Iowa whose lives were destroyed by the Iowa Department of Human Services. She was blessed to befriend many “co- soldiers” in her fight to help the falsely accused, including Jeff and Deb Cranston of Odebolt, Iowa, Rhea and Skip Hambright of Davenport, Iowa and John Harvey of Des Moines, Iowa.

Vickie is survived by her son Matthew Dolter (Jared Rogers) of Austin, TX; her daughter, Tiffany Woodward and two granddaughters, Samantha and Kaitlyn Woodward, of Johnson Creek, Wisconsin. Two sisters, Ronda (Bo) Schiel and Tracey (Russ) Stecklein of Dubuque; two brothers, Randy Hingtgen of Bettendorf, Iowa and Mark Hingtgen of Dubuque; several nieces and nephews; her boyfriend’s parents, Rex and Louise Kelley, of Davis City and their extended family. She is also survived by two very special friends, Sister Marge Burkle, OSF and Sister Janet Haverkamp, OSF both of Dubuque. Sister Janet was her third and fourth grade teacher (Sr. Anastasia) at Holy Ghost in Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved grandmother, Alice
Wagner in 1982; her boyfriend, Bradford “Kim” Kelley. She was also preceded in death by Shelby Duis, in 2000–the child she never met in this lifetime but who she always carried close to her heart.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Kay Hosch for all her care, kindness and friendship given to Vickie.

Edgar A. Turney

Edgar A. “Ed” Turney, 84, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at his home in Maquoketa, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Monday, April 29, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 2 to 4 P.M. on Sunday, April 28, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Edgar A. Turney was born on April 28, 1934 in Thomson, Illinois to Edgar E. and Frieda (Bell) Turney. He grew up and went to school in Thomson and then went to work at the Savanna Ordinance Depot where he met his future wife Joan E. Lamoreaux. They were married on December 9, 1953 in Lanark, Illinois where they began their married life.

He was then called to the U.S. Army where he served from 1956 until receiving an honorable discharge in 1958. Upon returning home he worked for the State of Illinois Division of Highways. In 1961, Ed and Joan moved to Maquoketa, Iowa where they owned and operated a milk trucking company. They sold out in 1965 and Ed went to work at International Harvester Farmall Works in Rock Island until it closed in 1986. He then worked for the Anamosa State Penitentiary, retiring in 1999.

In retirement, Ed served on the Maquoketa City Council for several years and was one of five men who started the Maquoketa Police Reserves.

Ed was an avid St. Louis Cardinals fan, could fix anything, and regularly enjoyed playing cards with his McDonald’s friends. He especially loved his grandchildren and would do anything for his family.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Jeff (Cindy) Turney of Maquoketa, IA, and Paula (Ted) Van Patten of Goose Lake, IA; 4 grandchildren, Lucas (Sarah) Dever, Jacob Dever, Carlie (and boyfriend Jordan Phillips) and Jordan Turney; and 3 step-grandchildren, Ted Van Patten, Cameron Van Patten and Sara Van Patten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Joan of 59 years, 7 brothers and 3 sisters.

“The entire family would like to give special thanks to Hospice of Jackson County and Dr. Kimberly Thompson.”

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Edgar A. “Ed” Turney memorial fund has been established.

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

Steve Smith

Steve “Gomer” Smith, 66, of Asbury Iowa passed away on Saturday April 20th at Unity Point Finley Hospital Surrounded by family. He succumbed to injuries sustained in a motor vehicle collision.

Friends may greet the family from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, April 25, at Peosta Community Centre, 7896 Burds Rd., Peosta, where there will be an “Irish Send-Off” beginning at 6 p.m. Private burial will take place at Asbury Cemetery. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd. is entrusted with arrangements.

Steve was born on April 27th 1952 at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque to Joseph and Kathleen “Kay” Smith of Bankston Iowa. He graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in Farley Iowa in 1970. He graduated from Loras College in 1974.

Upon graduation he and his brother Joe started Gomer’s Bar on University Avenue. It was at Gomer’s bar that he met his first wife Martha Bloechl. They were married on February 26th 1977 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Dubuque. In 1977 Gomer started Pickle Barrel Subs. Both the bar and sub shops became successful and he was able to transition into multiple commercial and residential real estate ventures in Dubuque.

Gomer was a member of the Clarke/Loras Singers and toured all over Europe signing under the direction of his dear friend John Lease.

Steve also served many years on the board of directors of East Dubuque Savings Bank. He was a member of Dubuque Shooting Society 660 where he got to spend many Thursday nights with his amazing friends who he called his “Financial Advisors.” He was also a member of Thunder Hills Country Club where he enjoyed Friday night dinners and watching his grandchildren swim at the pool.
Gomer was an avid Boston Celtics fan especially the greatest forward in Basketball history, Larry Bird.

He frequently contributed to many charities around Dubuque never asking for his name to be attached to any donation. He never sought praise, accolades or awards. He was humble, kind and good-natured.

In 2018 Gomer was given the miracle of life in the form of an organ donation from Sarah Jochum, daughter of Tom and Pam Jochum. He carried Sarah’s spirit with him for the last eight months of his life and became a strong advocate for organ and tissue donation causes.

Gomer enjoyed his antique cars, jukeboxes, and collectibles. He loved the outdoors and cherished watching the sunsets off in the distance from his porch knowing that it was setting over Bankston and his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles.

He is survived by his wife Martha. His children Jamie (Amber) Smith of Peosta, Mollie of Asbury, Jodi (David) Annis of Minnetonka Minnesota, His brother Richard (Joyce) Smith of Dubuque, sister Sue (Tom) Batell of LaCrosse Wisconsin, brother Joe (Ann) Smith of Peosta, sister Ann (Kevin) Grogan of Cascade, brother Jack (Maria) Smith of Bankston. His sisters in law Barb (Nick) Horn of East Dubuque Illinois, Georgia (Les) Johns of Potosi Wisconsin, brother in law Charles (Christine) Bloechl of Rockford Illinois, sister in law Julie (Kevin) Kriebs of West Branch Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Kathleen Smith and his in laws Erwin and Bernice Bloechl as well as his beloved aunts and Uncles especially Charlie, Herbie, Ray and George and his very special nieces Jennifer Johns and Rachel Schuster. He also recently lost one of his best friends Loren Larson of Dubuque.

His greatest joys in life were his wife, children and Grandchildren Kayleigh, Addison and Cooper Smith and Leo and June Annis.

The family would like to thank the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department, Asbury Fire Department especially Jim Abitz. The staff at Unity-Point Finley Hospital especially, in the Emergency Room and Intensive Care Units and Chaplain Jim who was always at our side. His internist Dr. Benjamin Kumor. The staff at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Julie Heimbach, Dr. Charles Rosen, Dr. Sumera Rizvi, Tammy Kremers ARNP and the rest of the liver transplant team at Mayo Clinic.

In lieu of flowers please send any memorials to the Mayo Clinic, The Gift of Life Transplant House or the Iowa Donor Network.

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

Gary W Meyer

Gary W Meyer, 65, died at home peacefully on April 20th, from Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Friends and Family may attend a special mass on his behalf April 26th at 5:30pm at St Patrick’s Church, 110 W. 15th Street, Dubuque, followed by a reception of celebration in the church hall. (Gary’s 66th birthday would have been on Saturday).

Gary was born April 27th, 1953 and was a lifelong resident of Dubuque. He graduated from Wahlert High School, and the University of Dubuque. He retired after 33+ years as a passionate teacher of physical education, and a driver’s education instructor for the Cascade and Western Dubuque Schools. He owned and operated Gary Meyer’s Driving Academy, and was dedicated to the safety and education of young drivers. I would bet you know a family member or friend who had the privilege of learning under his guidance. Beyond retirement, he served as a bus driver for the Jule, and a shuttle driver for the Julien Hotel.

Gary was a generous and selfless role model, always supporting those in need and his community. His hobbies included being an avid golfer, quality baseball player, an all-around sports enthusiast, and loyal Packer fan.

He was a compassionate caretaker and son for his surviving mother and father, William “Bill” and Shirley Meyer, of Dubuque. A loving father who adored his family, Daughter April, husband Travis Lemmon and grandchildren, Isabel and Theodore, of Ankeny, IA. Son Matt Meyer and wife Maggi of Memphis, TN. He was a special brother and friend to his sister Amy and husband Todd Merry of Norcross, GA. And Brother, Mike Meyer and wife Tammy of Madeira Beach FL. His life, and purpose included providing kindness, generosity and humor to his many nieces, nephews and cousins.

If you would like to honor his memory, contributions can be sent to Gary Meyer Memorial Fund, 1614 NW Reinhart Drive, Ankeny, Iowa 50023. Per Gary’s request, all funds collected will go directly to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. The family plans to dedicate a memorial plaque in his honor.

Geraldine V. Besler

Geraldine “Geri” V. Besler passed away at Stonehill Nursing Center on Friday, April 19, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2019 from 11 AM until service time at 1 PM, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 3860 Asbury Road. Rev. Jack Redmond will be officiating. Interment to follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Geri was born on December 7, 1930 in Dubuque, IA to her parents, Henry and Helen (Wiezorek) Pfeiffer. She married the love of her life, John “Jake” H. Besler on August 25, 1947 at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque, IA. She worked in the home taking care of her five children as well as working a short stint at the Dubuque Packing Plant.

Geri is the beloved wife of 71 years, John “Jake” H. Besler, Dubuque, IA; sons, Dale Besler of Dubuque, IA, Lois (Dan) Schultz, Robins, IA, Steven (Vicki) Besler, Cortland, NY, Craig (Karla) Besler, Dubuque, IA, and Vicki Besler; her grandchildren; Shawn, Nichole, Josie, Mitchell Besler, Dan “DJ” Schultz, Keri Christensen, Jessica, Justin Besler, Corey, and Shannon Besler; grandmother of 16; brother, Dennis (Kay) Pfeiffer and sister, JoAnn “Jodi” Gassmann, both of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a son Ricky.

A Geraldine “Geri” V. Besler memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to give a big thank-you to the entire staff at Stonehill Care Center for their love and support of Geri and also the wonderful staff at the Hospice of Dubuque.

Wendell Lewis Ryder

Wendell Lewis Ryder, 95, of Dubuque passed away Saturday, April 20, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Visitation will be from 3 to 7 pm Sunday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at Grand View United Methodist Church where visitation will also be held Monday from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Wendell was born June 27, 1923 at home in Berkshire County, Ohio. He grew up with his three siblings on a farm near Sunbury, Ohio.

He graduated from Centerville High School in 1941. He began attending Ohio State University, but the advent of World War II soon caused him to enlist in the army.

He served as a combat medic in the Philippine Islands. Only three of 28 medics assigned to his unit survived the war.

When the atom bomb was dropped on Japan, the plans that would have sent his division to Japan ended. Wendell did serve in South Korea as occupation forces while the Japanese were sent home.

Upon returning home, he resumed his college studies. After graduation, he accepted a position as 4H Club Extension director in Medina County, Ohio. It was while there he met his future wife, Mary Catherine Newberry.

He next worked as a sale representative for Ralston-Purina Company while assigned to Michigan.

Wendell and Mary where married in 1952 in Medina, Ohio. They lived in Albion, Michigan for 18 years. There they were blessed to begin raising their family.

While there, Wendell returned to school at Michigan State University, receiving a master’s degree in livestock studies.

In 1970, the family moved to Dubuque where Wendell became an Area Livestock Specialist for Iowa State Universlity.

When their children were of elementary school age, they began taking frequent camping trips in a 17- foot trailer. There were lots of western trips to remember and also trips to Canada. One summer in the 1960’s, they took an eight-week trip to the West, first picking up the two older sons at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.

Wendell and Mary retired in 1989 and continued to travel with a succession of fifth wheel trailers, wintering in Florida and Arizona. They also enjoyed travel to overseas destinations.

Wendell was an active member of Grand View United Methodist Church and a member of Rotary Club of Dubuque.

Left to celebrate his life are his wife of 66 years, Mary Ryder, children, Jordan Andrew Ryder of Eugene, Ore., Jeffry William (Sharon) Ryder of Bettendorf, Iowa, David Alan (Sharon) Ryder of Asbury, Iowa, and Mary Elizabeth (Stan) Kraemer of Burley, Idaho; grandchildren, Cheryl Byrnes, Matthew Ryder, Stacey Davis, Pete Davis, Jennifer Ryder and Emma Ryder, and a great grandchild, Ryder Thomas Byrnes. He is also survived by a sister in law Beverly Ryder of Westerville, Ohio as well as many nieces and nephews in Ohio and Colorado.

Wendell was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Gordon, Buelah, and Carlton.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and care.

Lois Ann Hayes

Lois Ann Hayes, 87, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Easter Sunday, April 21, 2019, at the Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of Lois’ life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, April 25, 2019 at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Wednesday, April 24, 2019 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Esgate Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Lois Ann Wentworth was born on August 10, 1931 in rural Spragueville, Iowa, to Blair Ballentine and Edna Ruth (Beck) Wentworth. She was a 1949 graduate of Maquoketa High School and a 1952 graduate of the Jane Lamb School of Nursing. She married Raymond “Rusty” Hayes on October 2, 1954 at the Salem Lutheran Church in Spragueville, Iowa. To this union two children were born, William and Owen.

Lois was a registered nurse. She first worked at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa and for Dr. Owen L. Frank. She then did private duty nursing, and for over twenty years was the school nurse for the Andrew Community School District, retiring in 1992.

Lois was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. She was very active with her time and volunteered for several area organizations including the Jackson County Relay for Life, American Cancer Society, Meals on Wheels, and Maquoketa Community Services. She had also served as the president of the Esgate Cemetery Association. In 2003, she was honored for her volunteer work and was awarded the Grace Tubbs Volunteer Award. Additionally, she enjoyed flowers and collecting family memorabilia.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband Rusty Hayes of Maquoketa, Iowa; children, “Bill” (Lelsie) Hayes of Maquoketa, IA, and Owen (Jean) Hayes of Monmouth, IA; 4 grandchildren, Rob (Christina) Hayes, Charlie Hayes, Gwen (Scott) Kalvelage and Jacob (Brittany) Hayes; 3 great-grandchildren, Logan and Dylan Hayes, and Coraline Kalvelage; a sister Fern Goettler of Maquoketa, IA; a brother Bill (Joan) Wentworth of Preston, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother-in-law Harold Goettler.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lois Ann Hayes memorial fund has been established.

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

William J. Crawford

William J. Crawford, 90, of Manchester, Iowa, died on Saturday, April 20, 2019, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester as a result of a stroke. He was born on December 22, 1928, in Mason City, to Ralph J. and Iva B. (Newell) Crawford.

He graduated from Mason City High School and Mason City Junior College. He then spent four years as a photographer in the U.S. Air Force. Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force, he attended the State University of Iowa in Iowa City and earned a B.S. degree in civil engineering. He worked as a highway construction engineer for the State Highway Commission of Wisconsin, the Iowa State Highway Commission, and the Iowa Department of Transportation. He retired in 1991.

While in Iowa City, he was introduced to Amata I. Lampe of Dubuque. They were married in St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Dubuque on August 31, 1957. Three children were born to this union.

Bill was a long-time, active member of First Lutheran Church in Manchester. He sang in the choir for more than thirty-five years. He served the City of Manchester as a board member of the City Park Board, the Board of Adjustment, and the Public Library Board. As a result, he was presented the First Citizen Award in 2010. Bill was also past president of the Manchester Rotary Club.

Bill is survived by his three children, Dan of Chicago, Illinois; Tim of Ottawa, Illinois; and Kate (Luis) Medina of Lincoln, Nebraska; four grandsons, Joshua, Nathaniel, and Andrew Medina of Lincoln, Nebraska, and Troy Montgomery of Ottawa, Illinois; a brother-in-law, James Kay; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, Amata; his parents; an older brother, Robert Crawford; and a younger sister, Blanche Kay.

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

Funeral Service:10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 25, 2019, at First Lutheran Church in Manchester, with Rev. Chris Martin officiating.

Visitation: 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 24, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call one hour before the service on Thursday at the church.

Interment: Oakland Cemetery – Manchester, Iowa

Donna J. Noonan

Donna J. (Roling) Noonan, age 66, of Dubuque, was called home at 6:00 p.m., on Friday, April 19, 2019, at home. To honor Donna’s life, funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, with Deacon John Stierman officiating. To celebrate Donna’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m., until the time of services at 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, April 23, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Bellevue, Iowa, at a later date.

Donna was born on July 15, 1952, in Bellevue, Iowa, daughter of Glenn G. and Marcelleen M. (Kilburg) Roling.

She attended St. Joseph’s School in Bellevue and graduated from Bellevue Marquette in 1970.
Donna was a kind and generous soul who was the happiest when she was taking care of people. Her career choices always put her in the service of others, whether it was waiting tables at Dimitri’s, Holiday Inn, Jorja’s or the Dip Tap. She loved interacting with others and her bright spirit came through with the smiles she received in return. It was, in fact, how she met Clarence “Butch” Ostrander, who she married in 1995. Sadly, Butch preceded her in death only three short years later on September, 25, 1998.

Donna was a regular at Bingo and in her coffee club and loved socializing. She met Ray Noonan in one of her social circles and they were married on May 20, 2002, at Dubuque’s 4th Street Elevator. Ray preceded her in death on May 17, 2006.

Donna enjoyed scrapbooking and was an avid card player. She enjoyed word games and word search puzzles and playing along watching Wheel of Fortune and The Price is Right. Donna was a great cook and an accomplished baker, always willing to share her accomplishments with those around her. Her most recent job was working for Donut Boy doing what she did best, making people happy, until her health caused her to retire in 2016.

Donna’s greatest joy was her family and she cherished any chance she had to be together.

Those left to honor Donna’s memory include

her 2 sons,
Jeff Roling, Dubuque, IA
and Jamie Roling, Dubuque, IA;

her mother,
Marcelleen Roling, Bellevue, IA;

her sister,
Joan (Robert C.) Smith, Hanover, IL;

her brother,
Terry (Lori) Roling, Bellevue, IA;

her brother-in-law,
Kevin Daniels, Miles, IA;

and her nieces and nephews.

Donna was preceded in death by her father; her two husbands, Butch and Ray; and a sister, Marla Daniels.

Donna’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staffs of Finley Hospital and Care Initiatives for their kind and compassionate care of Donna and her 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