Obituaries Archive

Georgia Lee Leaver

Gerald L. “Gerry” Naumann, age 87, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 5:54 a.m., on Friday, December 21, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Gerry’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, December 28, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Church, 1880 Saint Ambrose Street, with Rev. Steven J. Rosonke and Rev. Lloyd “Paul” Ouderkirk officiating. To celebrate Gerry’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m., until 8:00 p.m., on Thursday, December 27, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 3:30 p.m. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Centralia.

Gerry was born on February 6, 1931, in Sherrill, Iowa, son of Alfred and Anna (Behnke) Naumann.

Gerry proudly served his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Phyllis Ouderkirk, on October 30, 1954, at St. John the Baptist Church in Peosta, Iowa, and they have been blessed with 64 wonderful years together and 8 children. Gerry was a hard worker who supported his family by devoting 45 years to the Dubuque Packing Company and FDL, until his well earned retirement. Gerry’s Catholic faith was very important to him, he was a long-time member of St. Anthony’s Church, as well as a former member of the Holy Name Society. In his free time, Gerry could often be found out on the golf course seeking out that elusive “hole in one”, or hitting the lanes, looking to score a perfect 300, with friends from the Dubuque Bowling 700 Club. Gerry’s love of the outdoors also often took him out hiking at Swiss Valley, the Mines of Spain or along Heritage Trail. He was meticulous when it came to caring for his yard, making sure the length was always within the proper range of keeping to his high standards, and that the weeds and fallen leaves were non-existent. He also had a green thumb when it came to the garden, and was happy to always share his harvest with family and friends. Gerry was an avid sports fan who looked forward to baseball season when he could root for his St. Louis Cardinals, and then eagerly awaited football season when he was able to watch his beloved Green Bay Packers play. Above all, however, Gerry’s family was the most important aspect of his life, he loved traveling the country with Phyllis to visit the children, always looking forward to everyone being together at big family gatherings. We are heartbroken at losing our husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and brother, but know that he is now spending his 1st Christmas in Heaven with all of his loved ones called home ahead of him, free of the health issues that he has so bravely faced these past few months.

Those left to cherish Gerry’s memory include

his loving wife,
Phyllis Naumann, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Mary Schneider, Hazel Green, WI,
Eugene (Sherry) Naumann, Hanover, IL,
Marvin (Michelle) Naumann, Baltimore, MD,
Michael (Karri) Naumann, Orlando, FL,
David (Julie) Naumann, Dubuque, IA,
Kathy (Kevin) Vaughn, Dubuque, IA,
Randy (Amy) Naumann, Peosta, IA
and Janet (Tony Smith) Naumann, Cedar Rapids, IA;

his 13 grandchildren,
Kayla (Andy), Micah, Josiah, Katie, Amber (Jojo), Matthew, Danielle, Shawn (Jessica), Kevin Michael, Sam, Gabe, Max, Eli;

his 5 great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Irvin (Mary) Naumann, Dubuque, IA,
Al “Whitey” Naumann, Dubuque, IA,
Darlene (Don) Schmitt, Fenton, MO,
Harlan (Rose) Naumann, East Dubuque, IL
and Donald (Helen) Naumann, Peosta, IA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Donna Naumann, Epworth, IA,
Joan Naumann, Dubuque, IA
and Peggy Naumann, Dubuque, IA.

Gerry was preceded in death by his parents; a son-in-law, Steve Schneider; 3 brothers, Melvern “Curly” Naumann, Ronney Naumann and Kenneth “Dutch” Naumann; 2 sisters-in-law, Mary Naumann and Darlene Naumann; and a brother-in-law, Joe Hoerner.

Gerry’s family would like to thank Charlie Kutsch for his years of friendship on the golf course, as well as the nurses and staff of Stonehill, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Gerry and his family.

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

Georgia Lee Leaver

Georgia Lee Leaver, 69, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Thursday evening, December 20, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Georgia’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, December 27, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

Georgia Lee Neal was born on December 31, 1948 in Monticello, Iowa, to Paul and Darlene (Pritchard) Neal. She was educated in Midland of Wyoming Schools and had worked at a factory in Chicago prior to moving back to Monmouth, Iowa where she owned and operated the “Hound Dog” tavern for many years.

Those left to honor her memory include her brother and sister-in-law, Rich and Cindy Neal of Maquoketa, IA; 3 nieces, Jennifer (Brian) Eckhardt of Olin, IA, Kristin (Eric) Garien of Maquoketa, IA, and Lacey (Terry) Frahm of Baldwin, IA; 7 great-nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Felipe “Phil” Verdin of Monmouth, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Georgia Lee Leaver memorial fund has been established.

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

Dolores M. Kinsella

Dolores “Dody” M. Kinsella, Davenport, Iowa, passed away in her home on December 20th, 2018.

Visitation will be Sunday, December 23rd at Hoffman-Schneider Funeral Home, 1640 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa, from 1-4 pm., with a prayer service at 1 p.m. There will be a Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, December 24th at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Key West, Iowa at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Rodney Allers will officiate.

Dody was born May 4th, 1940 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joe and Mary (Hames) Waldbillig. She attended school at St. Joseph’s in Key West, and after graduating from St. Columbkilles in Dubuque, began working at Pepsi-Cola Company in Dubuque.

Dody married Dorrance “Earl” Kinsella on August 3rd, 1968 at St. Joseph’s Church in Key West, and then lived in Phoenix until moving back to Iowa. In 1977 Dody moved with her family to Muscatine, Iowa, and started working for the University of Iowa Heart Center in Muscatine. After her husband retired they moved to LeClaire, Iowa, to enjoy life in their new condo overlooking the Mississippi. This allowed them more time with family and friends and to be able to get away to warmer climates. After living in LeClaire for several years, they decided to move to their Villa condo in Davenport to be closer to their driving destinations.

In addition to her many artistic talents, Dody was an excellent cook, always trying something new. She excelled in entertaining family and friends, but always allowing plenty of time for some serious shopping. With a smile and personality that would light up any room, she was loved by everyone she met and enjoyed meeting and getting to know people. Dody will be remembered for her contagious personality, beautiful smile, comforting thoughts, and personal notes of encouragement that she sent quietly to so many friends and acquaintances.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband Earl Kinsella of Davenport; two children, Benjamin (Heidi) Kinsella, of Denver, CO, and Sarah (Dave) Jirak of Warren MI; three grandchildren, Joanie, Lola, and Miles Kinsella of Denver; brother, Paul Waldbillig of Dubuque; sisters Carole (Doug) Cosby of Peosta, IA, and Judy (Eric) Finley of Davenport; several nieces, nephews, cousins; and many good friends throughout the Midwest and Southwest.

Dody was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Rose Marie; and a sister-in-law Leslie Waldbillig. May they rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, a Dody Kinsella memorial fund has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfh.com

Kenneth W. Bremer

Kenneth W. Bremer, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Thursday, December 20, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Andy Upah officiating. Family and friends may gather after 11:00 a.m. until time of service.

Ken was born on March 10, 1943 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Helen Barth. Ken was the “Paint Man” for 42 years. He was always admired for his dedication and loyalty to his employees and customers, many whom became lifelong friends.

Those left to cherish Ken’s memory include his beautiful bride of 52 years, Elonka; their much loved, daughters, Natalie (Dan) and Elena (David); 8 grandchildren, Andrew, Monika, Ava, Calvin, David, Luke, Cole and Sophia. Sisters Edna Siefker, Pat Link and Mary Engling. His mother-in-law Barbara Langenbach; his favorite sister-in-law Sharon Bremer; brothers-in-law Rudy (Diane) Langenbach, and Gery (Judy) Langenbach along with several nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, a brother Robert Bremer, his maternal grandparents Emil and Mary Barth, numerous aunts and uncles and his father-in-law Steve Langenbach.

Thank you is an understatement; Ken and his family would like to express their deepest, heartfelt gratitude to the Cleveland Clinic, especially Dr. Rafid Fadul. Without them we would not have been given the gift of extra time and memories with him. Ken’s family would also like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque especially Betsy, for all of her kind, compassionate and professional care of Ken.

Memorials will be accepted by the family and given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Buffie Marie Moore

Buffie Marie Moore, 43, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, December 19, 2018, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

A celebration of Buffie’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, December 28, 2018, at Faith Community Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the church. A private burial will be at the Rose Hill Cemetery, Toronto, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Buffie Marie Moore was born on October 2, 1975 in Dubuque, Iowa, to David T. and Nancy Lee (Davis) Moore Sr. She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1995 graduate of Maquoketa Community High School. Through the years, Buffie had worked part-time at the Tea Cup in Maquoketa and for the Maquoketa REA. She also worked at home doing chores and gardening.

Buffie enjoyed Karaoke, singing and dancing, movies and watching “Days of Our Lives” each day. She knew everything about movie stars and was a celebrity and Hollywood expert with three of her favorite actors being Tony Danza, John Stamos and Jim Carrey. Additionally, she enjoyed helping her mom with planting flowers, and spending time with her eight nieces and nephews. She was a wonderful aunt.

Those left to honor Buffie’s memory include her parents, David and Nancy Moore Sr. of Maquoketa, IA; her siblings, Michelle (Craig) Marham of Dubuque, IA, and David (Kate) Moore Jr. of Dubuque, IA; her Godmother, aunt Mary Marcov of Dubuque, IA; and 8 nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Don and Thelma Davis, paternal grandparents Tom and Kay Moore, aunt Connie Kubicek, and a cousin Joshua Davis.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Buffie Marie Moore memorial fund has been established.

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

John F. Thompson

John (Jack) Francis Thompson, 90, died on Wednesday, December 19 at his home in Dubuque.

Share your memories of Jack with friends and family on Friday, December 21, from 3 to 7 p.m. at St Joseph the Worker Church, with a prayer service at 6:30pm. The funeral Mass will be Saturday, December 22, 10:00am, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, with visitation from 9 to 10am. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Born November 5, 1928, son of Frank and Genevieve (Cassutt), Jack, married Mary Virginia (Winnie) Deibel on May 8, 1950. She died in April, 2014. Together for 64 years they worked tirelessly through their businesses and community service to make a difference in Dubuque. A man of great faith, strengthened by daily Mass, the rosary always in his pocket, and his love of family. Jack always exuded a positive and energetic spirit! Neighborhood gatherings were his speciality. He made life fun!

Jack exemplified an unparalleled work ethic with passion and commitment for his family, friends, and community. Jack embraced all life had to offer including taking his annual dive off the high board at Flora Park Pool, until the tender age of 89.

Taking over the Thompson Food Market family business in 1944, Jack went on to create Oky Doky Foods, 6/12 Discount Mart, Dubuque Distributing and many more ventures. Jack was very involved in numerous Dubuque business associations and recognized as the longest standing member of the Dubuque Shooting Society 660 Club.

Jack was loved by his family for his sense of humor, ability to look on the bright side and his can-do attitude. He was a great man, husband, father, grandfather, and friend and he did it his way.

Surviving are his four children, Tom (Diane), of Farley, Iowa, Terry (Brigid), of Vadnais Heights, Minn., Jean (Charlie) Daoud, Catherine (Paul) Kloft, both of Dubuque; 11 grandchildren, Eric Thompson, Katy (Sean )Thompson, Patrick ( Emily) Thompson, Christina (Jake) Moore, Rachael (Sam) Daoud, Sam Daoud, Gabrielle Daoud, Samantha Kloft, Jack Kloft, and Lauren Kloft, Angie (Phil) Shields; five great-grandchildren, Leilani, Liam, Owen, Elliot and Winnie. his brother, Paul (Mary) Thompson of Richmond, VA, two sisters, Anne Geiser of Athens, GA, and Sally Finnegan of Edina, MN; a brother in law, Jim (June) Deibel, Overland Park, KS.

In addition to his wife, Mary Virginia, he was preceded in death by his parents, sister Joan Loes and brother-in-laws, Fred Geiser, Dr. Louis Loes, Jerry Deibel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to DuRide, Albrecht Acres, St. Joseph the Worker or the charity of choice.

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

The family gratefully appreciates the kindness, support, cards and prayers.

Gregory L. Sushko

Gregory L. Sushko completed his earthly journey on December 19, 2018.

According to his wishes, a celebration of Greg’s life will be held in the spring. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfh.com

He was born in Amityville, New York to John and Irene (Bennett) Sushko on September 25, 1946. Greg graduated from the University of Dubuque in December of 1970, after serving in the US Army from 1966-1968. After a short stint with the National Farmers Organization he spent the remainder of his working career with Flexsteel Industries in Dubuque.

Greg joined the Dubuque Evening Lions Club in 1971. An active member, he enjoyed the fellowship of his fellow Lions. He was named a Lion Melvin Jones Fellow in 1994. After his retirement he served as a volunteer at Finley Hospital, the Mississippi River Museum, the Dubuque Humane Society, the University of Dubuque Heritage Center, and Meals on Wheels.

Greg is survived by his wife, Anne, who he fell in love with in 1968, married in 1971, and journeyed with until his final breath. His beloved daughter Heather, her wonderful husband Michael, and his cherished granddaughters Elizabeth and Sarah carry on his legacy of love. They were the lights of his life. He is also survived by his well-loved brothers Jack (Marcia), Randy (Roni), and Bradley.

Our thanks go to our friends and family near and far for their love and support. To the entire staff of Finley 4th floor med, Grand River Medical Center Oncology, Stonehill 1st South and Hospice of Dubuque – you humbled us with your love and dedication. And to two truly amazing men – Dr. Salas and Dr. Hermann – our community is blessed with your presence and your dedication. Thank you all for accompanying us on this journey.

Memorials may be given to the Dubuque Evening Lions Scholarship Fund, Hospice of Dubuque, or a charity of your choice.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal – Love leaves a memory no one can steal.”

Darlene R. Moriarty

Darlene R. Moriarty, 83, of Dubuque died Thursday, December 20, 2018 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, December 22, 2018 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9-10:15 a.m., Saturday at the church. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is in charge of the arrangements.

Darlene was born on November 10, 1935 in Dubuque, the daughter of Charles and Ada Pfeiffer.

She married James Moriarty on June 16, 1956.

Darlene was employed at Dubuque Packing Company, Caradco, and WC Brown. After retirement she volunteered at Finley Hospital.

She enjoyed movies, Elvis music, bowling, playing cards with her grandchildren and attending their school activities.

She was a life-long member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

She is survived by her children, Julie (Jerry) Cockroft, Mike (Jayme) Moriarty, Lisa (Tom) Brimeyer, Mark (Tiffany Carradus) Moriarty and Diane Trotter; grandchildren, Captain Brian J. (Kristen) Cockroft, Holly (Logan) Ruble, Casey (Kayla) Moriarty, Simon, Kramer and Kendall Moriarty, Paige, Austin and Morgan Brimeyer, Chloe and Dylan Moriarty and Molly and Liza Trotter; two great- grandchildren, Jace and Anna Ruble; sister, Jeanette Laufenberg; and sisters-in-law, Betty Sullivan and Vivian Moriarty.

She was preceded in death by her husband; son, Jeff Moriarty; parents; sister, Dorothy Sheean; and brothers, Charles Jr., Phil, Gerald, James, and Robert Pfeiffer.

A Darlene Moriarty Memorial Fund has been established.

Special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Scott, Suzanne and Nichole.

Wayne L. Wittstock

Wayne L. Wittstock, 59, of Dubuque, died on Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, December 22 at The Cathedral of St. Raphael. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 3:30-7 p.m. Friday at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road.

Wayne was born on January 30, 1959 the son of William and Loretta (Williams) Wittstock.

Wayne loved people and people loved Wayne. Wayne’s contagious sense of humor, positive attitude, and giving heart were what made him shine. He enjoyed any opportunity to have fun. He looked forward to attending movies with his lifelong best friend Bob, family dinner nights, birthday parties and any event that included chocolate ambrosia pie or ice cream, or Michelle’s chocolate chip cookies. He enjoyed family vacations especially to the Wisconsin Dells. He loved going to Bishops, Pizza Ranch, Pizza Hut and Burger King. One of Wayne’s favorite pastimes was watching his tv shows. He looked forward to his Dr. Who episodes, keeping family up to date on facts from the history channel and discovery channel and was always able to tell everyone what type of weather to be expecting. Wayne was a hard worker and enjoyed working for his brother Tim. He frequently gave to his nieces Krista and Lindsey’s classrooms at Roosevelt and Audubon. He loved cheering on his Iowa Hawkeyes and making predictions on who would win what bowl games.

Family was very important to Wayne. He would do anything to see his family happy. Wayne adored his nieces and nephews and made sure to give quarters to each of them every time he saw them. He loved reminiscing on memories of his younger days and sharing stories of all the fun times had. He loved all the family dogs, especially his dog Scottie who he is now reunited with.

Wayne really was the best brother, uncle, son, and friend a person could ask for and will be missed dearly.

He is survived by his siblings, Sharon Lowe, David Wittstock, Tim (Kim) Wittstock, and Deanne (Joe) Roussel; nieces and nephews, Jennifer (Brian) Neises, Michelle (Tony) Zurcher, Angela (Darby) Young, Jon (Cassie) Lowe, Brian Lowe, Krista (A.J.) Ligeralde, Lindsey (Adam) Riegler, and Nicole Wittstock; great-nieces and nephews, Logan, Jesse, Peyton, Christian, Morgan, Carson, Joseph, Felicity, Audrey, Amelia, Alan, Zelda, and Jackson. Wayne is also survived by his best friend of 50 years Bob Edminister.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Paul Lowe; sister-in-law, Donna Wittstock; nephews, Jeff Wittstock and Matthew Wittstock; and several aunts and uncles.

A Wayne L. Wittstock memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to all his health care providers and family who have helped Wayne through the years.

Fay Kathleen Sippel

Fay Kathleen “Faye” Sippel, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on December 19, 2018 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Private family services will be Saturday, December 22, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Fay was born on September 3, 1931 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of George and Elvira (Haverland) Stoeckl. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy and married Robert Sippel on July 7, 1951.

She was a loving homemaker and especially enjoyed the holidays with her children and grandchildren.

Fay liked to spend time on Abel Island in Guttenberg where the family gathered for many summers of fishing and recreation.

She was dearly loved by her family and friends.

She is survived by her children, Pamela (Gary) Mootz, of East Dubuque, IL, Judith (Dr. Stephen Clifford) Buss, of Sherrill, IA, Ann (Rick Fens) Drexler, of Dubuque, Scotty (fiance, Pam Lattner-Vaassen) Sippel. Grandchildren, Jamie Davis, Brian Buss, Heather (Casey) O’Mara, Tyler and Trevor Sippel. Great grandchildren, Carson O’Mara and Sophia Buss.

Fay was preceded in death by her parents; a grandson Derrek Drexler; her sister Nancy Hartig; brothers-in-law Kenneth Hartig and Joseph Wareham.

Memorials may be directed to Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.

The family would like to thank the Key West Fire & EMS Department, Unity Point ER and 5th Floor nurses and to Ann Augustin-Sippel for all their wonderful care, kindness and compassion.

Ronald W. Morris

Ronald W. “R.W.” Morris, 78, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, December 19, 2018, at home.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 28, 2018, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Friends may call from 9-10:45 a.m. Friday at the funeral home before the service.

Ron was born on January 9, 1940, in Platteville, Wisconsin, the son of Harold and Viola (Rennison) Morris. He married Monica Ann Laack on July 16, 1960, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Platteville. Ron worked at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening. Ron also enjoyed playing horseshoe and cards, especially cribbage. He served in the National Guard from 1957-1960.

Survivors include his wife, Monica; a daughter, Kelly (Tim) Huber, of Dickeyville; two sons, Kerry (Kathy) Morris, of Big Patch, and Kraig Morris, of Sun Prairie; two sisters, Katherine “Katie” Hall, of Platteville, and Cindy (special friend, Terry Fahertey) VanNatta, of Platteville; a brother, Joe Morris, of Cuba City; two grandsons, Jordan and Brandan Huber; a granddaughter, Morgan Morris; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and three sisters, Beverly Brinkman, Donna Kitelinger and Kathleen Finkler.

A special thank you to Grant County Hospice.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net.

Irene E. Herbst

Irene E. “Toots” (Gottshalk) Herbst, age 90, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 10:30 p.m., on Tuesday, December 18, 2018, at Bethany Home, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Toot’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, December 22, 2018, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, with Rev. Phillip G. Gibbs officiating. To celebrate Toot’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, December 21, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 6:30 p.m. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Toots was born on November 27, 1928, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Henry and Mabel (Hedrick) Gottshalk.

Toots was united in marriage to the love of her life, Leo Herbst, on June 14, 1952, at Fort McClellan, Alabama, and they were blessed with 54 years together and 5 wonderful children, before Leo was called home ahead of her on February 20, 2007. She was a devoted wife and mother, but also shared her talents outside of the home working at Four Mounds, Burdens, the Battery Factory and Ponderosa Restaurant. Toots was a faith filled woman and a long-time member of the Church of the Resurrection, as well as a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Toots loved the outdoors, and had an undeniable green thumb, tending to a large garden and several beautiful flower beds every summer. She also enjoyed a day out on the water fishing and giving the guys a run for their money when it came to catching the biggest fish. Toots also had a playfully competitive side and enjoyed a spirited game of Euchre whenever the opportunity arose. She had an adventurous spirit, and Toots and Leo loved traveling the country visiting new places and taking in all the sights. Family was always the most important thing in her world, and Toots cherished any chance she had to spend time with Leo, the children, and eventually the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, always making sure everyone knew how special and loved they were. Our hearts are saddened today at losing such a kind, thoughtful, loving mom, grandma, great-grandma and sister. We feel very blessed for the 90 years Toots was here walking on this Earth with us, and take some comfort in knowing that she and dad are reunited for their 1st Christmas in their Heavenly home.

Those left to cherish Toot’s memory include

her children,
Randy (Sandra) Herbst, Belgrade, MT,
Rick (Joan) Herbst, Durango, IA,
Terry (Dennis) Bellmann, Dubuque, IA,
Ron (Deb) Herbst, Sherrill, IA
and Tina (Mike) Longsdorf, EauClaire, WI;

her 17 grandchildren;

her 28 great-grandchildren;

her sisters-in-law,
Dorothy Gottschalk,
Anita (Jim) Gulyash
and Sylvia Dietz;

and her brothers-in-law,
Leroy Bettcher
and John “Bill” Theisen.

Toots was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leo Herbst; her brother, Earl Gottschalk; a sister, Jeanette Bettcher; and her in-laws, Florence (Charles) Weiland, Arlene (Charles) Chapman, Roselyn (Tom) Erlich, Lavonne (Leo) Abitz, Betty Theisen and Kenneth Dietz.

Toots’ family would like to thank the outstanding staff of Bethany Home for all of their loving care and support of Toots 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

Rose E. Johanningmeier

Rose E. (Mescher) Johanningmeier, 95, of The Rose of Dubuque, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at 6:20 p.m. on Monday, December 10, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center. Rose spent her formative years in New Vienna, Iowa, and later raised her own family on Hennepin Street and Blackhawk Drive in Dubuque. She moved to The Rose in 2015.

A celebration of life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 22 at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church with Father David Schatz officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Saturday at the church before the services.

Rose was born on August 12, 1923 in New Vienna, Iowa, to Anton and Mary (Sandman) Mescher. She married Elmer D. “Moe” Johanningmeier in 1948 at St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 26, 2003.

She graduated from St. Boniface High School in New Vienna, Iowa, attended Bayless Business School in Dubuque and the American Enterprise Institute in Davenport, Iowa. Early in her career, she worked at the Savannah Army Depot in Hanover, Illinois and Spahn & Rose in Dubuque, Iowa. She was a sales associate at JC Penney in Dubuque, Iowa for 27 years, retiring in 1986. She was the wife of a former policeman.

Rose was a past member of Sacred Heart Church and currently a member of St. Columbkille’s Parish.

Rose loved spending time with her family, spending hours playing games like Euchre, Boggle and Old Maid, all the while never missing a crossword puzzle. She made numerous trips to Idaho and the mountains there. She truly enjoyed her time working at JC Penney of which she was a stockholder and pensioner. She liked to take weekly trips to the Mall after retiring. She was a friendly face at Finley Hospital and the Dubuque Arboretum for many years
volunteering her time where she could visit with people and enjoy nature. Rose was an avid Cubs fan and proud to witness her team win the World Series.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, a son, Robert (Mary Lou) Johanningmeier of Dubuque, IA, and two daughters, Mary Ellen (Merle) Neises of Galena, IL and Karol Ward of Hailey, ID; her grandchildren Laura (Jim) Knabel, Amy (Matt) Cooksley, David (Jennifer) Johanningmeier, Angie (Eric) White, Rachael (Kevin) Bergstrom, Hailey (Richard) Bernal, Kaitlyn (Tiberius) Mocanu, Ashley Neises, Stephanie Neises, Brian Ward and Hannah (Derrick) Harville: 18 adored great-grandchildren with one due in June of 2019; her sister-in-law, Marion Mescher, Australia; her brother-in-law, Eddie Maiers, Dubuque, Iowa and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Rose was preceded in death by her three sisters, Alma (James) Healy, Laura Maiers, Arlene (Dick) Southwell; and her eight brothers, Herbert (Irene) Mescher, Vincent (Lucille) Mescher, Edwin (Anna Jane) Mescher, Raymond (Fran) Mescher, Robert (Peggy) Mescher, Allen (Violet) Mescher, Elmer Mescher, and Donald (Betty) Mescher; her two sisters-in-law, Marie (Robert) Richard and Theresa Jansen, her four brothers-in-law, Owen Johanningmeier,
Charles (Marge) Johanningmeier, William (Josephine) Johanningmeier and Justin (Kay) Johanningmeier.

The family requests no flowers. A Rose Johanningmeier Memorial Fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank all of the wonderful caregivers at the Rose of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all the kind, compassionate and professional care they provided to Rose and her family. They also would like to thank Father Daniel Knepper.

The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Richard Uptegraph

Richard Uptegraph, 63, of Dubuque, died Saturday, December 15, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Friday, December 21 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with the Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 3-7 p.m., Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, where a parish scripture wake service will begin at 7 p.m.

Richard was born on July 4, 1955 in Manchester, Iowa, the son of William and Vera (Billhorn) Uptegraph.

He graduated from West Delaware High School in 1974 and from Kirkwood Community College in 1976.

On August 7, 1976 he married Sandra Pasker.

Richard was employed at various places in the auto industry, including Mr. G’s Auto Parts, Tires Plus and Tandem Tire. He spent the last decade transporting cars cross-country, as well as, driving school buses for the Dubuque Community School District.

He enjoyed going to auctions, collecting antiques, classic cars, camping, and watching NASCAR. During his free time Richard also enjoyed hanging out at various auto businesses in town, especially at Tri-State Auto with special friend Bill Beauchamp and at Burt Steve and Son, Garage, his other special friend Larry Steve.

Richard cherished time spent with his wife, children and grandchildren,

He is survived by his wife, Sandy; children, Adam (Katie Rapp) Uptegraph and Michaela (Spencer Craig) Uptegraph; grandchildren, Alexis Uptegraph, Alora Rapp-Uptegraph, Lucian Rapp-Uptegraph, Aiden Coble, Ellesha Coble, Kaylee Coble and Vanessa Uptegraph-Johll; sisters, Joyce (Raymond) McDowell and Janet (Mark) Klein; mother-in-law, Rosemary Pasker; sister-in-law, Mary Jean Uptegraph; several in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughters, Vanessa, in infancy, and Megan Uptegraph-Coble; brother, Dwayne; parents; and step-mother, Ena Uptegraph and father-in-law, William Pasker.

In lieu of flowers a Richard Uptegraph Memorial Fund has been established.

Richard’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the Surgical and Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit and Palliative Care Unit at the University of Iowa for their compassionate care and support.

John Milo Fine

Surrounded by the incredible love of his wife, daughter and family, John Milo Fine left this world on December 16, 2018 at his home in Epworth, Iowa. He was stubborn and bull-headed until the end and we expected nothing less of him.

John was born January 28, 1950 in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, son of Milo W. and Alberta R. (Buch) Fine. He grew up in the Mineral Point area, graduating from Iowa Grant High School in 1968. John worked for John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years until he retired in 2002, where he met the love of his life Sarah Coyle. He over indulged in Rolaids and Copenhagen from the lunch cart to get more opportunities to talk to her. On August 24, 1985 John and Sarah where united in marriage at St. John’s Catholic church in Placid, Iowa.

John’s life was full. He was a hard-working, hard-playing man who thoroughly enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting prairie dogs, wrenching on his cars, camping and spending time with family and friends. John got much enjoyment and relaxation by grooming the lawns in the neighborhood. Without a doubt, John’s pride and joy was his family. He loved his wife and four daughters, but he treasured and adored his grandchildren.

John is survived by his lovely wife of 33 years, Sarah Fine of Epworth, IA; four daughters, Crystal (Bruce) Fox of Rewey, WI, Amber (Jay) Carlsen of Appleton, WI, Shelby (Coleman) Retzlaff of Mount Horeb, WI, and Megan (Bill) Schroeder of Epworth, IA; 14 grandchildren; 1 great grandchild; 3 siblings, Jayne (Jerry) Gates of Sherrill, IA, Terry (Ruth) Fine of Hazel Green, WI, and Marijean (Steve) Yager of Edmond, WI; mother-in-law, LaVonne Coyle of Epworth, IA; bothers and sisters-in-law, Linda (Rick) Boffeli, Thomas “Skinny” (Linda) Coyle, David “Bink” (Bonnie) Coyle, Karen (Joe) Young, Kathy McDermott (Special Friend Jim Splinter), Charlie (Ann) Coyle all of Epworth, IA, Dennis “Hook” Coyle of Amana, IA, Hugh (Vicky) Coyle of Farley and Carol Coyle of Cascade, IA; and many nieces and nephews. John also leaves behind a special group of lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandson, Damien Glockner; father-in-law, Robert Coyle, sister-in-law, Nancy Coyle and brother-in-law, Patrick Coyle.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Edna Sch for all the care and support that they gave to John and his family. We would also like to thank nursing staff at Finally Pain Clinic and Dubuque Radiology.

Friends and relatives of John may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Thursday, December 20, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Services for John will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, December 21, 2018 at St. John’s Catholic Church in Placid, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.

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