Obituaries Archive

Mary Lea Gudenkauf

Mary Lea Gudenkauf, 78, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Thursday, May 23, 2019 at The Gardens of Cedar Rapids, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Mary Lea may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 28, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 4 p.m. Friends may call after 9 a.m. at the funeral home on Wednesday.
Services for Mary Lea will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 29, 2019 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

She was born on July 11, 1940, in Earlville, Iowa daughter of Leo and Marie (Melchert) Recker. She received her education from St. Patrick’s School in Ryan, Iowa. She was united in marriage on June 19, 1962 to Loras Gudenkauf at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Ryan, Iowa. He preceded her in death on January 10, 2018. The couple farmed in the Cascade area.
She was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by; two children, Richard Gudenkauf of Cascade, IA and Rhonda Andrew Toms & Husband Shane Toms of Cedar Rapids, IA; two grandsons, Tyler Andrews and Sawyer Toms; one brother, Loras (Gloria) Recker of Ryan, Iowa; brothers and sisters-in-law, Eugene (Anita) Gudenkauf, Bernadette (Robert) Staner of Cascade, IA, Joyce (Tony) Feldman of Earlville, IA, James Rollinger of Cascade, IA and JoAnn (Donald) Knipper of Hopkinton, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one daughter, Mary Gudenkauf in infancy in 1964; one brother, Kenneth Recker; sisters-in-law, Lavonne Rollinger, Sandy Rollinger; her, father and mother-in-law, Edward and Lucille Gudenkauf.

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

Robert R. Gerken

Robert R. Gerken, age 84 of Dubuque IA passed away on May 23rd, 2019, at home surrounded by his family. He was born in Happy, TX, on July 1st, 1934, to Oscar and Martha (Wernke) Gerken. He married Darlene Nieland on June 18th, 1960.

Bob is survived by his wife; sons William (Anne) Gerken of Covington, WA, and Robert (Shelley) Gerken of Colorado Springs, CO; his daughter, Mary Gerken of Covington, WA; five grandchildren, Clara, Luke, Elizabeth, Jacob and Robert; and his sister, Mary Del (Don) Stouse.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, William Gerken, and sisters, Carol (Laverne) Kleitsch, and Dorothy (Don) Tiller.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 29th at St. Columbkille’s Church, Dubuque, IA. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. until Mass

Committal prayers and military honors will be at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery Guttenberg, IA. Military honors presented by Guttenberg American Legion Post #373. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Dennis J. Stierman

Dennis J. Stierman, 61, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 20th, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a celebration of Dennis’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

He was born October 15, 1957 in Dubuque to Jerold “Huck” Stierman and Millie (Schromen) Stierman.
He married Callista Behnke on January 18, 1991 and had four beautiful children.

He loved spending time with his family and loading up his grandchildren with sugar. He was passionate about music and loved the outdoors. He was always there for others and would help anyone.

He is survived by his son Shawn (Marissa Kast) Stierman; his daughters Cheyanna (Charlie Saul) Stierman and Jasmine Stierman, all of Dubuque; grandchildren Cameron Saul and Kayden Jasper; his sisters Pam Willey and Carolyn (Jimmie Marshall) Stierman, both of La Motte; his brothers Brian (Mary) Stierman of New Port Richey, Fla, and Kurt (Rena) Stierman of Dubuque; a brother-in-law Bill Welsh of Dubuque, along with many nieces and nephews who loved their uncle Din-Din.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Jeremy; two sisters Jody Welsh and Wendy Stierman; and brother-in-law Rick Willey.

A Dennis J. Stierman memorial fund has been established in lieu of flowers.

Doris Michaelson

Doris Michaelson died May 20, 2019 at age 88. Doris was originally from Bellevue, Iowa and was under the care of Hospice at Stonehill Franciscan Care Center, Dubuque.

Doris was born on February 1, 1931 to parents John and Florabel Holdefer in Humboldt, Iowa. She was the older sister to one sibling, John. Doris and her future husband were high school classmates and were also confirmed together in 1943 at First Lutheran Church in Humboldt, Iowa. After attending Iowa State, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics Education, she married Manly Michaelson on June 15, 1952. Doris taught Home Economics in Lytton, Iowa while her husband, Dr. Manly Michaelson, completed a one year of practice in Lytton, Iowa and then was recruited to practice medicine in Bellevue, Iowa where Doris had many relatives. In 1958, Doris and Manly had a small office directly across from the American Legion in Bellevue and then moved to the most recent location with a beautiful view of the Mississippi river. Doris and Manly worked together in the office from 1958 until 1987. While Dr. Michaelson made himself available for house calls and emergency care at all hours even delivering babies at the Bellevue Public Hospital, Doris raised five children.

A working mother, Doris was involved in the community of Bellevue. She served on the Bellevue Community School board for nine years and was President for several years. Doris was an active member of the Republican Women’s Club and the Tri-State Home Economics organization. She and Manly were both private pilots and Doris had the distinction of being the first female float plane pilot in the state of Iowa. Doris enjoyed flying members of the community to see breathtaking Bellevue. Doris and Manly both also utilized their private plane to transport multiple patients to Iowa City for additional care. Doris was also an avid gardener and a faithful follower of the Master Gardener program on WMT radio. Doris and her son Robert also enjoyed a placing trot lines in the Mississippi River. She was also an enthusiatic supporter Colts Drum and Bugle Corps and the Hawkeye Marching Band. Doris loved the sound of Sousa marches and also had the opportunity to play under the guest conductor/famed composer Karl King while playing sousaphone in the band while at Iowa State.

Doris had such a wide array of interests but without question, her biggest passion was being a leader for the Weight Watchers. She attended her first meeting in Chicago with her husband and was so impressed that she drove 74 miles a week to attend Weight Watchers in Moline, IL. After losing 52 lbs and reaching goal in the early ‘70’s, Doris sought to become a leader for approximately fifteen years. At one time she had 13 classes per week covering Dewitt, Hanover, Bellevue, Maquoketa, Dubuque and even an “At Work” meeting in the Galena Territories. Her background in nutrition and her love of helping people made her an inspiring leader. Doris retired from Weight Watchers in 1998. In later years, she served as a substitute teacher for Bellevue Public schools and also volunteered for five years as a “Greeter” at the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce. Doris loved this position as she told visitors about “Beautiful Busy Bellevue”.

Doris was an amazing, accomplished woman and will be missed greatly by her family and long-term members of the Bellevue community.

Doris Lee Michaelson is survived by her brother John (Rosemary) of Monument, CO. Her children Dr. Robert Michaelson (Debbie) of Champaign, IL, James (Vivian) of Tomball, TX, Charles (Becky) Michaelson of Dubuque, Ruth Michaelson of Dubuque and CDR Martha Michaelson, a dentist on active duty in the US Navy stationed at Great Lakes, IL and fifteen grandchildren: Jennifer of Dubuque, Ingrid (Kindred) Priest of Bettendorf, Nikki living in France, Manly (Christine) Whitehouse, TX, Peter (Mallory) of Red Oak, TX, Seth (Tesca) of Temple, TX , Josiah of Conroe, TX, Hannah, Naomi, Eunice, Esther, Talitha and Abigail all of Tomball, TX and 3 step-grandsons, Marc Porter of Ft Worth, TX, Josh (Adriana) of Overland Park, Kansas and Ryan of Champaign,IL, Dara (Travis) Leick of Dubuque, Jacey of Dubuque and great grandchildren: Ella and Amelia Priest, Jimmy and Clark Michaelson, Ezekial Michaelson and Ethan, Jaymes, Andrew, David and Jordan Michaelson-Leick.

Services will be held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, IA with visitation from 11:00-1:00 and funeral service at 1:00 with lunch to follow at the church. At 2:45, Doris will be laid to rest at St John’s Lutheran Cemetery in St. Donatus, IA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to St. John’s Lutheran church of Bellevue and the Bellevue Ambulance service.

Local arrangements entrusted to Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Online condolences may be left at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Donald D. Dede

Donald Dean Dede, 80, of rural Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He was born on August 19, 1938, in Boone, the son of Fred and Ruth (Hannum) Dede. Following graduation from Boone High School, Don attended mechanic school in Kansas City.

On April 3, 1960, Don was united in marriage to Janice Schmidt. Two sons were born to this union. After 22 years of service, Don was honorably discharged from the Army National Guard in 1977. Janice died in 1979. Don married Patricia Schmidt on June 9, 1984, at First Lutheran Church in Manchester. He worked as a mechanic at 1st Avenue Chrysler-Plymouth in Cedar Rapids until his retirement in 2000.

Don was a long-time member of First Lutheran Church in Manchester. He enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. Don also loved relaxing at their cabin on Lake Delhi. The Iowa Donor Network recognized Don as an eye donor.

Don is survived by his wife, Patricia; one son, Darwin (Tracy) Dede of Marion; a daughter-in-law, Reneé Dede of Marion; two grandchildren, Spencer and Skylar Dede; one sister, Carol (George) VanDee of Cedar Rapids; and his dog, Mollie.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Janice; a son, Kenneth in 2018; and a sister, Marilyn Larson.

Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at First Lutheran Church in Manchester, with Rev. Tony D. Ede officiating.

Visitation: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2019, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester. Friends may also call one hour before the service on Tuesday at the church.

Interment with Military Rites: Peace Lutheran Cemetery – Ryan, Iowa

Margerie M. Kreassig

Margerie M. Kreassig, 98, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 20th, 2019 at Care Initiatives, Dubuque Specialty Care.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 28th, 2019 at Mueller Chapel, Linwood Cemetery with Rev. Charles Layton officiating. Burial will follow the service in Linwood Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at Mueller Chapel until time of service. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Margerie was born on July 9, 1920 the daughter of Joseph Gottschalk and Edith Avenarius. She was a member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Dubuque.

She worked for Dubuque County Nursing Home in Dubuque for many years. Margerie was a very good cook and enjoyed having family over for meals. She was also a very good seamstress and was a hard worker. She loved her family and will be missed very much.

Margerie is survived by her children Dick (Ellie) Kreassig, of Virginia Beach, VA, LaVonne (John) Timm, of Waterloo, IA, Melvin Kreassig, of Dubuque and Ron (Cindy) Kreassig, of Marion. Eleven grandchildren, fourteen great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren and her sister Joan Furlong.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandsons Michael Kreassig and Eric Kreassig and her sister Marcella Bleymeyer.

Memorials may be sent to Hospice of Dubuque or St. Luke’s United Methodist Church.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Care Initiatives, Dubuque Specialty Care for all theircare, kindness and compassion they gave to Margerie.

Carol Sue Wild

Carol Sue Wild, 73, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, May 22, 2019, at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A celebration of Sue’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, May 25, 2019 at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 to 10:30 A.M. at First Lutheran church in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Carol Sue Gerischer was born on November 16, 1945 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Paul Gerischer and Dorothy (Ralston) Gerischer. She was a 1964 graduate of Andrew High School. She married Richard “Dick” Wild on June 6, 1965 at Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew, Iowa.

Carol Sue had worked at Operation New View in Maquoketa for 16 years, had also driven for the RTA, and worked at DAC, Inc. in Maquoketa. Additionally, she and her husband had run a food pantry from their home in Andrew for several years.

Carol Sue was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. She was very active with her time and volunteered for several area organizations. She enjoyed cooking, crocheting, and baking cakes on special occasions for people.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Richard “Dick” Wild of Maquoketa, IA; children, Jim (Marla) Wild of St. Louis, MO, Steve (Rosa) Wild of Algonquin, IL, Brian (Michelle) Wild of Ames, IA, and Mark (Amy ) Wild of Boonville, MO; 8 grandchildren; a brother, Rick (Diane) Gerischer of Maquoketa, IA; and sisters, Gail Guckenburger of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Nancy (Dale) Kilburg of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, an infant daughter, brothers Bill Gerischer and David Gerischer, and a sister Joan Gerischer.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Carol Sue Wild memorial fund has been established.

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

Carl H. Engling

Carl H. Engling, age 91, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 1:40 p.m., on Monday, May 20, 2019, at ManorCare Health Services, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Carl’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2145 JFK Road, with Rev. Kristian Kincaid officiating. To celebrate Carl’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Carl was born on November 3, 1927, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, son of John and Bernadette (Brimeyer) Engling.

Carl was born and raised in North Buena Vista before moving to Dubuque and then to Sioux City, Iowa in September of 1983 for work. He was united in marriage to Virginia Francois on June 17, 1950, in Dubuque, and together they were blessed with 11 children. Carl was a hard worker and devoted his time and talents to many places beginning with the The Shoe Factory during WWII, then on to General Dry Battery and State Brand Creamery, before becoming part owner of The Hollywood Grill in the 1960’s. He would then go on to work at Old Timer’s, The Circle, Timmerman’s, Dubuque Packing Company, PSSI and finally with Iowa Pork Producers, until his well earned retirement at age 75. Family was always Carl’s main priority in life, and he cared for his son, Allen, who suffers with Cerebral Palsy, for several years. When he did manage to find some free time in his days, Carl loved to go fishing, always filling his bucket to the brim, or spending the afternoon in the kitchen whipping up something delicious for Virginia and the kids. His soups were famous and always a hit with everyone! Carl was quite the Euchre player, you never wanted to be on the opposing team, and was an accomplished bowler in his younger days. He was a jokester who loved teasing everyone in good jest, and could keep you captivated for hours with his entertaining stories. Carl also occasionally enjoyed trying his luck picking the winning dog at the Dubuque Greyhound Park. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, brother and uncle, but know that he is now reunited with all of our family members that have already been called home.

Those left to cherish Carl’s memory include

his children,
Carlyn Root, Tolleson, AZ,
Diane (Robert) Cook, Dubuque, IA,
Denise (Randal) Parsons Sr., Dubuque, IA,
Ken (Tracy) Engling, Moline, IL,
Carl (Dianne) Engling, Dubuque, IA,
Helen DeAnda, Sioux City, IA,
Kevin Engling, Sioux City, IA,
David Engling, Sioux City, IA,
Vincent (Thao) Engling, Columbia, SC
and Allen Engling, Sioux City, IA;

his 24 grandchildren;

numerous great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Marcella Travis, Dubuque, IA,
Helen (Archie) Molzof, Dubuque, IA,
Leon (Kathy) Engling, Bettendorf, IA,
Donald (Alice) Engling, Whitewater, WI
and Cindy Ohnesorge, Dubuque, IA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Mary Engling, Freeport, IL,
Shirley Engling, Freeport, IL
and Mary Engling, East Dubuque, IL.

Carl was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 55 years, Virginia Engling, a son, Michael Engling; a son-in-law, Felimon DeAnda; his siblings, Gerald (Jenny) Engling, Louisa (Harold) Kirby, Irene (Carl) Ruff, Theresa (Theodore “T.J.”) Huekels, Ray Engling, Alfred Engling Sr., Joyce (Karl) Miller and David Engling; and a brother-in-law, Jim Travis.

Carl’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Carl and his entire family.

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

Maynard H. Meier

Maynard H. Meier, 92, of Preston, passed away on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue. Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 24, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A visitation will be from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue and again Friday morning from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. also at the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Maynard was born January 30, 1927 in rural Jackson County, the son of Edward and Frances (Fens) Meier. He attended a one room rural school in Washington Township, where he described himself as the fastest runner in the school. Maynard served his country in the US Army during the Korean War 1950-1952 in combat on the front line as a forward observer in a heavy mortar company of the 24th Infantry Division. Maynard felt considerable pride in his service, and in 2013 flew in an Honor Flight out of the Quad Cities. He married Yvonne Greve on November 26, 1955 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Maynard was a lifelong farmer on a Century Farm, member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church and Bellevue American Legion Post #273. He found enjoyment attending his children and grandchildren’s events, woodworking, and spending time with his family. One of his favorite pastimes was dancing with Yvonne. Even after retirement from active farming, he continued to raise chickens and cared for the farm cats.

Survivors include his wife, Yvonne; children, Randy (Chris) Meier, Ken (Sandy) Meier, Thomas (Kathy) Meier, Ann (Mark) Bormann, and Lisa (Paul) Hammond; grandchildren, Ellen (David Celichowski) Meier, Katherine (Johnny Dedrick)Meier, Emily Meier, Derek Meier, Elizabeth (Colin Larson) Meier, Lance Meier, Kelcie Bormann, Colton Bormann, Nicole (Dan Kuhl) Hammond, Erika Hammond, and Sean Hammond; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Marilyn Meier, Jeanette Gruhn, Visetta Leonard, Les (Shirley) Greve, Donna (Don) Galusha, and Will (Glorianne) Greve.

Maynard was preceded death by his parents and siblings, Robert and Leo (Mavis) Meier.

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

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

Anthony J. Runde

Anthony (Tony) J. Runde, age 85, of Hazel Green WI, passed away on Monday, May 20, 2019, at Epione Pavilion, Cuba City WI, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 25th, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Sinsinawa, WI, with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Visitation will be 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 24th, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday. Friends may also call from 8:45 to 9:45 am Saturday at the funeral home. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Tony was born on October 10, 1933 in Hazel Green WI, son of Lawrence and Frances (Fleege) Runde.

He married Mary Ann Ploessl on November 7, 1953 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Glen Haven WI. She preceded him in death on November 26, 2016. Tony and Mary Ann farmed in rural Cuba City for over 50 years and he operated Runde Insurance for 54 years. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish and Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus, Hazel Green Township Board, Grant County Board of Supervisors (Orchard Manor, County Farm and Law Enforcement Committees) and Jamestown Mutual Insurance Board.

Tony was a loving husband, father and grandfather. We could always count on dad to drop everything when anyone in the family needed him. He enjoyed spending time with his family. He was always up for a good game of six-handed euchre. Farming was an important part of dad’s life and he was proud that 2019 marks the Centennial year of the family farm.

He is survived by his children, Greg (Kay) of Cuba City, Linda (Dan) Nelson of La Crosse, Dennis (Jan Leiser) of Hazel Green, Diane (Dave) Pluym of Hazel Green and Deb (Roger) Hoppenjan of Cuba City. Grandchildren: Brett (Laurie) Runde, Amanda (Jamie) Vaassen, Hannah (Jeremy) Brant, Nathan (Kelsey) Runde, TJ (Courtney) Runde, Garrett (fiance’ Ilina Datkhaeva), Evan (fiance’ Kym Fritz) and Connor (friend April Frickson) Pluym, Cody (fiance’ Molly Wubben), Jenna (friend Dakota Lovell) and Ryan Hoppenjan, 16 great-grandchildren with one on the way and a sister, Mary Lou Tressel.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, a granddaughter, Courtney Runde; a great grandson, Carter Runde, his brothers, Joseph and Ralph and his sisters, Helen Meyer and Dorothy Burbach.

In lieu of flowers, an Anthony (Tony) Runde memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Tony’s family would like to thank Dr. Sullivan, Dr. White and the staff at Medical Associates, his caretakers, Mary Kay, Sara, Maddy and Ashley, the staff at Epione Pavilion and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

Richard J. Hoell

Richard J. “Cookie” Hoell, Jr, 55, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Saturday, May 18, 2019 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque. Burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, IL. There will be no public visitation. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is serving the family.

Richard was born on October 7, 1963 in Dubuque, the son of Richard J. and Joan (Knobbe) Hoell, Sr.

Surviving are two children, Kali Hoell and Trevor Hoell both of Galena; his mother Joan Schroeder of Dubuque; and two sisters, Laura (Glenn) Anderson of Las Vegas, NV, and Deborah Smith of Burlington, NC.

He was preceded in death by his father, grandparents, John & Eleanor Hoell, and Harry & Viola Knobbe, and step-father, Richard Schroeder, Sr.

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

Robert W. Ridgeway

Robert W. Ridgeway, 75, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, May 16, 2019, at UnityPoint Finley in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 am Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, followed by a Memorial Service at 11 a.m. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Dyersville where military honors will be accorded by Legion Post 137.

Robert was born February 6, 1944, in Pascagoula, Mississippi the son of Wallace and Gladys (Faust) Ridgeway. He served in the Navy 1962-1964. He married Sheila Curtis Little on December 10, 1980, in Dyersville, Iowa.

He was a mechanic on the heavy equipment used by road and bridge construction crews and he ran the Dyersville Super 8 Hotel for five years. His favorite hobby was building model trucks, including working RC pulling tractors.

Robert is survived by his wife, Sheila, his children Jackie Jay of Holt, FL, Carol (Mark) Cooper of Sevierville, TN, Norma Jean (Casey) Muntz of Guttenberg, IA, and Rob (Mary) Ridgeway, Jr. of Dubuque, IA, and step sons Jeff (Tracy) Little of Dubuque, and Jody (Nicki) Little of Las Vegas, NV, 23 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren; and in-laws: Gene (Julie) Curtis of Marion, IA, Diane Courtney, Alan (Mary Kay) Curtis and Yvonne Younes, all of Dubuque.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Karl (Maggie) Hoffman, his parents-in-law, Paul and Vera Curtis, and a sister-in-law, Barbara (Ed) Kirner.

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

Lois Ellwanger

Lois Dick Ellwanger of 3175 Pennsylvania Ave, Dubuque, IA, formerly of 2184 Bennett St. died Sunday morning May 19th at Luther Manor surrounded by family.

A visitation will be held Tuesday May 21st from 4-8 pm at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home at 2659 JFK Rd. Friends may also call from 9:30-10:15 am on Wednesday May 22nd at St. Peter Lutheran Church. Services will be Wednesday May 22nd at St. Peter Lutheran at 10:30 am, 3200 Asbury Rd. Burial will be held following the service at Linwood Cemetery.

The former Lois Marie Dick was born on July 29, 1923 in Dubuque to Carl Moritz Dick and Viola Hocking Dick. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1941. She married Milton Ellwanger on April 26, 1951 at St. Mark Lutheran Church. On that day Lois took into her heart his two small daughters. Their union produced two additional children.

She was employed in various banking positions for many years until her marriage. After her marriage she stayed home to help raise the children. In later years she worked as a receptionist in an architectural firm.

For most of her life she was an active member of St. Mark Lutheran Church and taught Sunday School there for over 30 years. She remained a member until the church closed in the late 1980’s. She was also an active member of the Luther Manor Auxiliary for 35 years, a volunteer at Finley hospital for 27 years and joined the Lois Club at its inception in the late 1980’s.

At the time of her high school class 20th year of graduation, she formed a committee which kept the addresses of the 306 class members and planned and executed a large reunion every 5 years for 45 years.

Survivors include her four children -Milton’s two daughters Virginia Sheets of Dixon, IL, Arline Oliver of Omaha NE, her son Tom (Pat) Ellwanger of Dubuque and Wendy (Dudley) Nelson of Michigan, her sister Marjorie Schultz of Dubuque, her sister-in-law Mary Dick of Edina, MN. She also has 10 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren (soon to be 11), and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Milton, a brother Richard Dick, a grandson Aaron Michael Strong, 2 sons in law, Gerald Oliver and Donald Sheets and 3 sisters in law, Jane Kaune, Bette Weidenbacher and Lorraine Davis.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials may be given to the St. Mark Community Center, St. Peter Lutheran Church, Luther Manor, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank to Dr. Randall Lengeling, Dr. John Whalen and Dr. Todd Spurling for their care of Lois over many years.

Rose E. Hall

Rose E. Hall, age 93 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed her earthly journey on Saturday, May 18, 2019 at Luther Manor Community in Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family. To celebrate Rose’s life, private family services are being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Rose’s family.

Rose was born on October 11, 1925, in Des Moines, Iowa, a daughter to David Lusk “Luck” and Gladys Delyte (Enabnit) Wilkie. She had discovered very early in life that teaching children was the goal she desired to work towards. After graduating from high school, Rose proceeded onto college and successfully completed her teaching certification. Rose joyfully spent the next 42 years of her life working in the Dubuque Community School District where not only were her career dreams fulfilled, but without realizing it her imprint and impact on countless children throughout the community would continue to carry her legacy forward for generations to come.

She enjoyed almost every day she was in the classroom, but Rose also understood the value of her free-time outside of work. Socializing with her friends during a friendly game of Bridge was always a welcomed event, but relaxing in solitude at the sewing machine, or even getting comfortable on her couch with a knitting needle or a good book were also some of her favorite ways to pass the time. The absolute favorite hours she would ever indulge in though were the opportunities she was able to simply sit and catch-up with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Rose’s eyes lit up every time her grandkids were near, and thankfully her heart was replenished with an abundance of love by time they left her side again. Rose was a relentlessly gentle soul who embraced all that was good in the world. She generously shared her kindnesses without ever expecting anything in return and in turn set a beautiful example for all who knew and loved her. Our hearts are broken at the mere thought that we will not see Rose again in this life, but we know and trust that the memories she leaves behind will carry us through until we do finally get to see her again. Thank you for being an amazing mother, grandmother, sister, teacher and friend Rose and may the Lord bless you for all of the positive light you spread so freely upon the world around you!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Rose include,

her children,
Bruce (Jenny) Hall, Cincinnati, Ohio,
Cindy (Lee) Scovanner, Cincinnati, Ohio,
Debra “Deb” Finn, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Kimberly (Doug) Stickney, Dubuque, Iowa;

her 12 grandchildren,
Austin (Tina) Hall, Amelia Hall, Anna Hall, Cassandra (Mark) Bloom, Johnathan Scovanner, Melissa Scovanner, Chad Finn, Brian Finn, Anthony (Lori) Finn, Gregory Finn, Caitlin (Nic) Mortelliti and Christopher Stickney;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Connor Finn, Avery Finn, Olivia Mortelliti and Baby Bloom who will be joining us in early June;

along with many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Rose was preceded in death by her parents and 2 siblings, David (Opal) Wilkie and Delores (“Salt”) Alderson.

Memorial donations may be made in Rose’s name, to be applied to the Ryan Scovell XXYY Research Fund, through the XXYY Foundation at www.genetic.org/donatenow/donate

Rose’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they provided to Rose, and her family.

Online condolences may be shared with Rose’s family atwww.tristatecremationcenter.com

Marianne Hurlburt

Marianne (Klein) Hurlburt 82 of Dubuque passed away at 4:25 p.m. on Friday, May 17, 2019 at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at Saint Anthony Catholic Church with Fr. Steve Rosonke officiating, burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at the Leonard Funeral home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

She was born on August 30, 1936 in Rickardsville, Iowa the daughter of Herman and Irene (Ritt) Klein and attended school in Rickardsville. She married John “Jack” Hurlburt on June 29, 1955 at Saint Joseph Church in Rickardsville. Together they shared 64 years of marriage.

She began her working career teaching pre-school in Dubuque and later owned and operated Plants by Marianne in Sherrill. Many knew her as the “Flower Lady” and could often be found at the Farmers Market displaying her plants and flowers.
After living in the Balltown & Sherrill area for 21 years they moved to Guttenberg for 9 years and then Key West for 14 years until finally moving to Applewood 3 in Dubuque.

They also spent 13 retirement years in Mission Texas where she served as Secretary of the Pleasant Valley Park.
Marianne never had a bad word to say about anybody. She enjoyed animals and nature especially being outdoors, camping, fishing, and gardening. Cooking and baking were some of her favorite things to do. For 25 years she looked forward to her “sister trips” where many great memories were created. She also had a special relationship with the Blessed Virgin Mary.

She is survived by her husband John “Jack” Hurlburt; three sons Timothy Hurlburt, of East Dubuque, Scott (Shellie) Hurlburt, of Schapville, IL, Kent (Kim) Hurlburt, of Waterloo; a daughter Dr. Holly (Mike) McLain of Kansas City KS; 10 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren; sisters Betty (James) Coohey, and Carol (Don) Bluml, of Dubuque and Elaine (Ron) Foht, of Milan, IL; a sister-in-law Rosie (Dan) Klein, of Luxembourg, IA and 22 nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents Herman & Irene Klein; her in-laws Art & Marie Hurlburt; a brother Danny Klein and two sisters, Alice (Vince) Brimeyer, and Nancy Klein.

In lieu of flowers a Marianne Hurlburt memorial fund has been established.

Marianne wishes to express a special thanks to all the doctors, nurses, aides, and technicians that helped her through this ordeal. Especially to Dr. Eric Engelman and staff, and Dr. Jerod Freiburger at Medical Associates; the University of Iowa Hospital; the Wendt Regional Cancer Center; and Amy and Angie with Hospice of Dubuque for all their care and compassion.