Obituaries Archive

Marvin M. Gessner

Marvin M. Gessner, 96, of Monticello died Friday, July 12, 2019, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:30 am Tuesday, July 16, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello where a Mass of Christian Burial will commence at 10:30 a.m.  Burial will be at St. Patrick & St. Paul Cemetery near Watkins, Iowa.  Rev. Paul Baldwin will officiate.

Marvin was born September 17, 1922, on the original family homestead near Norway, Iowa, the son of Michael C. and Alma (Thoman) Gessner.  He married Louise Kacer on November 10, 1953, in Tama, Iowa.  To this union there are 6 children who were all raised on the farm near Norway.  Louise preceded him in death in 1987.  Marvin and Joyce Cashman married on November 18, 1989, at Sacred Heart Church in Monticello.

Survivors include his wife, Joyce, 6 children: Alan (Linda) Gessner of Newhall, Dale (Marilyn) Gessner of Belle Plaine, Dr. Ann (Bill Lorenz) Gessner of Ames, Carol Gessner of Ft. Collins, CO, Barb (Randy) Lukan of Cedar Rapids and Leo (Brenda) Gessner of Story City; 9 grandchildren: Christy (Andy) Barta, Chase, Caleb and Casey Gessner, Olivia Lorenz, Taylor and Grant Lukan, Courtney and Jaclyn Gessner; 4 great grandchildren: Matthew, David, Owen and Alex Barta; siblings: Eileen Reilly of Central City and Gerald (Karen) Gessner of Newhall, and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, infant brother John, his first wife Louise and brother-in-law Jack Reilly.

We would like to thank the staff at Monticello Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and Unity Point – St. Luke’s Hospital for the wonderful care.

Information available and condolences accepted at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Ross T. Broderick

Ross Thomas Broderick peacefully passed away on July 9th, 2019 after a rapidly progressing illness.

Ross, a lifelong resident of Dubuque, is survived by his Bride of 60 years Shirley Ann (Tranel) Broderick, his son Daniel (Nancy) Broderick, daughters Julie (James) Fischer, Laura (James) Mulgrew and Mary (Christopher) Luedke, sisters Kathleen McMullen and Lynne (Samuel) Sciple. Additionally, Ross is the Grandfather of ten Andrew (Theresa) Broderick, Sara (Daniel) Lueders, Kelly (Korey) Kasper, Ben (Abby) Mulgrew, Noah Mulgrew, Jackson Mulgrew, Madeline Mulgrew, Samuel Fisher and Lindsay Fisher. Ross is also the great grandfather of Marley, James and Madalyn Kasper, Emerson and Grant Lueders and Adrian Broderick.

He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Dorothy (Baumgartner) Broderick and son Steven M. Broderick.

Ross was a loving husband, caring father and average fisherman. He was an expert in fluid hydraulics and specialty engineering while employed John Deere.

Ross loves the Lord and was an active parishioner at St. Raphael’s Cathedral and volunteer at St. Marks First Congressional Church in Dubuque Iowa.

The family would also like to thank Dr. Runde and his wonderful nurse Julie and Mercy Home Health Care for the incredible, compassionate care they gave Ross.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, July 15, 2019 at St. Raphael Cathedral with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Family and friends may visit after 9:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of mass. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials can be sent to St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street Dubuque, IA or Four Mounds, 4900 Peru Road, Dubuque, IA 52001.

Joseph B. Behan

Joseph B. Behan, 68, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2019 at his home.

Visitation will be from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM Friday, July 12, 2019 at Grace Baptist Church, 3966 Asbury Rd, Dubuque. The funeral service will be 1:00 PM Saturday, July 13, 2019 at Grace Baptist Church, 3966 Asbury Rd, Dubuque. Interment will be at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Centralia. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service are in care of arrangements.

Born May 31, 1951 in Manchester, IA, he was the son of Joseph H. and Dorothy M. Behan. After his father passed, he was raised by his parents Dorothy and Ray Francois.

He was a 1969 graduate of Cascade Aquin High School. He attended one year of college at Divine Word Seminary where he met Ann Wuertzer of Centralia, IA and she stole him out of the hands of God. They fell in love and were married June 3, 1972 in Peosta, Iowa.

Joe worked at Dubuque John Deere Works for 42 years. He retired in May 2014.

He was a member of Grace Christian Church and Dubuque Noon Optimist Club. He was an avid golfer, hunter, fisherman, and never missed an opportunity to tell a joke or a funny story, or to play a prank – all with a sly smirk on his face! Joe never knew a stranger, only a friend he hadn’t met. Joe also had a competitive side and, in fact, there is still a record showing that his daughter Colleen owes him $4.29 on over 20 years of cribbage! But he was always the first to give you a warm welcome and the best hugs!!

Survivors include his wife, Ann; two daughters, Kerri (Shawn) Ries of Dubuque, and Colleen (Bill) McDermott of Peosta; two sons, Josh (Holly) Behan of Sarasota, FL, and Joe Behan of Dubuque; nine grandchildren, Marcus, Allie, Cody, Kassidy, Emma, Meghan, Billy, Josiah, and Lyvia; his parents, Ray and Dorothy Francois of Springfield, MO; five sisters, Ann Kluesner, Patti Speake, Rae Ellen Denker, Joyce Francois, and Michele Roethe; three brothers, Michael Francois, Dennis Francois, and Scott Francois and several nieces, nephews, in-laws and a few outlaws as well!

He was preceded in death by his father.

A memorial has been established for Dubuque Noon Optimist Club.

The family would like to thank the Dubuque Police Department and Fire Department.

And as Joe always said, “Glad you got to see me”.

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

William B. Boyes

William Burton “Bill” Boyes, 76, of Dubuque passed away Sunday, July 7, 2019 at his home.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:00 AM Saturday, July 13, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, with Rev. Ms. Karen Candee as the officiant. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery, South of Dubuque with military honors rendered by the American Legion Post 6. Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday, July 12, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider& Kitchen Funeral Home.

Born February 11, 1943, in Dubuque, he was the son of Burton and Rosemary Schlampp Boyes. Bill married Carol Ann Buol, the love of his life, on April 5, 1969, at First Presbyterian Church in Dubuque. Bill and Carol were happily married for 38 years and were devoted to each other and their family. She passed away November 1, 2007.

Bill was a 1961 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

He served our country in the U.S. Army and was honorably discharged in March of 1969. He had worked for 30 years at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works, retiring in 2002.

He was a member of Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ, the American Legion, and UAW Local #94. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers, Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Boston Celtics, and especially Larry Bird. Bill and Carol spent many summers with the Dubuque Colts Drum and Bugle Corps as Chaperones, Chief Cooks, and Bottle Washers. Bill was a semi-permanent fixture at the Q Casino, (aka “the dog track”) as he always called it and made sure to go down when he had “5 bucks to spend”. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing fast pitch softball, bowling, camping at the Palace Campgrounds in Galena, playing cards with many friends and of course, being the designated grasshopper maker for all of the Buol Family Christmas gatherings.

Bill is survived by two sons, Douglas (Lisa) Lineen, of Cheyenne, WY, and Nathan (Jennifer) Boyes of Dubuque; one daughter, Elizabeth (Don) Lundy, of Lake Mills, WI; four grandchildren, Jacob and Leah Boyes, Tiffany Fischer, and Trent (Jess) Eastman; two great-grandchildren, Logan and Brantley; and numerous nieces and nephews and “Outlaws” who treated Bill like he was a brother.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, and one daughter, Stefanie.

The family would especially like to thank Dr. Kirkendall and his nurse, Kate, along with all of the other nurses and staff at their office as well as the Unity Point staff at Finley Hospital for taking such good care of Bill over the years.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent by visiting Bill’s obituary at www.hskfh.com

Robert L. Ricklefs

Robert L. Ricklefs, 74, of Langworthy died Wednesday, July 10, 2019, at the Dennis & Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha, Iowa.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2019, from 10 am – 12:30 pm, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello where a Celebration of Life service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Rev. Ed Moreano will officiate. Burial will be Oakwood Cemetery at a later date.

Robert was born November 21, 1944, in Monticello, the son of Ernest and Regina (Holub) Ricklefs. On October 1, 1966, he married Sandra Haigh, at the United Methodist Church in Anamosa, IA and made their home in Langworthy since 1971. Robert served in the US Army from 1965-1966. He worked at Weber Stone Quarry in Stone City, IA for 52 years.

Robert enjoyed fishing, hunting, mushroom hunting, gardening, cooking on his smoker, grandkids and spending time outdoors.

Robert is survived by his wife Sandra, children: Dan (Shelly) Ricklefs of Maple Grove, MN; Sherry (Bruce) Kramer of Cedar Rapids, IA and Rob (Randee) Ricklefs of Atkins, IA; 9 grandchildren: Austin, Casey, Grant Ricklefs, Courtney (Andy) Cannon, Kirby Gehl, Carter, Spencer Kramer, Hailee Ricklefs, Marcus Ricklefs and a great grandchild Kyran Cannon; siblings: Gloria Schmidt of Cedar Rapids, IA and Raymond Ricklefs of Ft. Worth, TX, Randy Rickels, Scott Rickels both of Monticello, IA and Dixie Nielsen of Minneapolis, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Donna (Kenneth) Hanson.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com

Lanny J. Hostert

Lanny J. Hostert, 60, of Dubuque, IA passed away in his home on Saturday, July 6th.

A small burial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 13th, 2019 at Mount Calvary Cemetery, family and friends may visit after 10:30 a.m. at the chapel until time of service. In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family asks that friends and loved ones please make a donation to the memorial fund in Lanny’s name at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Following the service, there will be a small luncheon, open to all, from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m. located on the lower level of Mason Dixon Saloon to celebrate Lanny’s life.

Lanny was born on June 21st, 1959 to John “Jack” and Lola Hostert in Dubuque, IA. Lanny spent his youth in Dubuque where he enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. He graduated from Hempstead High School in the summer of 1977 and went on to attend University of Wisconsin-Platteville to study business. During his time at UWP, Lanny was actively involved with his fraternity brothers of Phi Sigma Epsilon in philanthropy and university events. Following his college graduation in 1981, Lanny accepted a position at McKesson as a Sales Executive where he continued to work for over 20 years. In 1985, he was married to Karen (Pigman) Hostert and was blessed with three children, Matt, Lindsay, and Michelle.

Throughout his life, Lanny most enjoyed playing golf with a small group of close friends, coaching and attending his children’s sporting events (especially softball and baseball), and making Sunday meals for his family. When he wasn’t on the field or the golf course, Lanny enjoyed constructing intricate models of military airplanes and vintage cars. After completing a model, he would proudly display his work in his home for friends and family to enjoy. Lanny’s favorite time of the year was the fall, when he could be found with neighborhood friends cheering on the Minnesota Vikings-and crossing his fingers for a Green Bay loss. Lanny loved to entertain during football season and typically welcomed his friends and neighbors during the season with a hug and a huge pot of chili to keep warm. Another one of his favorite pastimes, was visiting his father, Jack, on the weekends. Lanny and his family spent countless weekends in Massey Station keeping Jack company and planning days on the river. His three children fondly remember his boundless sense of humor and bright bouts of laughter after Lanny told jokes. Matt, Lindsay, and Michelle will never forget gathering around the dinner table to enjoy one of Lanny’s delicious Sunday meals and telling stories about their week. Lanny will always be remembered for his colorful sense of humor, always-friendly demeanor towards everyone he met, and love for his family.

Lanny leaves behind his three children, Matt Hostert, Lindsay (Hostert) Goedert, and Michelle Hostert; two grandchildren Bennett Hostert, and Ryder Goedert; and wife Tammy Monroe.

He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Jack and Lola Hostert.

Rita Mae Riniker

Rita Mae Riniker, 84, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at her home in rural Epworth, Iowa.
Friends and relatives of Rita may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 12, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Saturday, July 13th at the funeral home.

Services for Rita will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, July 13, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller Presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.
Rita was born November 23, 1934 in Balltown, Iowa daughter of Vince and Lucille (Neuses) Rolwes. She received her education in the Balltown School. On September 29, 1953 she was united in marriage to Bernard Riniker at St. Francis Catholic Church in Balltown, Iowa, he preceded her in death on November 7, 2013. The couple farmed in the rural Epworth area. She was a devoted Mother, Grandmother and Great Grandmother. Taking care of her family was her priority from changing diapers, doing laundry, house chores, farm chores and canning lots of food to feed her family.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, Iowa.

She is survived by twelve children, Gary (Cynthia) Riniker of Bernard, James Riniker of Epworth, Christopher (Katherine) Riniker of Strawberry Point, Mark (Lorie) Riniker of Farley, Timothy (Cindy) Riniker of Elkader, Thomas Riniker of Cuba City, WI, Robert Riniker of Greeley, Bruce (Jeanette) Riniker of Winthrop, Luann Riniker of Epworth, Lois (Jerry) Hammerand of Sherrill, Bernard Jr. and Richard Riniker both of Epworth; 23 grandchildren, Joe, Lisa, Marie, April, Crystal, Joanna, Adam C., Dennis, Brian, Aaron, Jeremy, Cheryl, Tyler, Jacob, Adam J., Alex, Alyssa, Amanda, Alexa, Jeff, Jordan, Jennifer, and Julie; 41 great grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, Raphael Tigges and John Denlinger both of Dubuque, sister-in-law, Charlene Riniker of New Vienna.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; two children in infancy, Peter in 1957 and Joanna in 1973; one grandchild, Michael Riniker in 1986; one great grandchild, Aiden Schaffer in 2013, two sisters, Ruth Denlinger and Rosemary Tigges; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jacob (Bernice), Arthur (Dorothy) , Rosina (William) Loney, Anna, Stephen (Rose), Frances (Reynold) Steffen, Andrew (Coletta), Otto.

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

Gregory S. Oertel

Gregory S. Oertel, age 57 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on July 8, 2019 at ManorCare, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Gregory’s life, a private family service is being held. Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gregory’s family.

Greg was born on December 28, 1961, in Dubuque, a son to Ray and Phyllis “Gail” (Gray) Oertel. He enjoyed his early years growing up in Dubuque, being surrounded by family and friends at every turn. Greg went to Hempstead High School and eventually found his way into the doors at CyCare and continued on with the company through the McKesson years. He and his beautiful bride, Janann were blessed with 5 wonderful children throughout their marriage together. When Greg wasn’t putting in his time at work, or at home with the family, you could usually find him baiting his hook at the water’s edge on the nice days, or quite often chasing that ever elusive perfect game at the bowling alley.  Greg has battled cancer head on twice now and his spirit simply couldn’t take another day of the same.  We will miss him more than he knows, but we are also very grateful that his earthly struggles have now been forced to release their grip on his mind, body and soul. We pray that he finally finds peace today while we wait patiently for the day when we may be reunited with Greg, once again, in a new and eternal state of perfection.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Gregory include,

his 5 children,
Felicia Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa,
Andrew Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa,
Nathan (Caitlyn Locke) Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa,
Joshua “John” (Jacy Paar) Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Natalie Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 2 grandsons,
Tyler and Brayden;

his ex-wife,
Janann Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa;

his siblings,
Jeff (Connie) Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Melanie (Dave Sowle) Oertel, Dubuque, Iowa;

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

Gregory was preceded in death by his parents.

Gregory’s family would like to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Hermann, Dr. Heiar, along with the nurses and staff at ManorCare and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Gregory and his family.

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

Patricia L. Wilming

Patricia L. Wilming, 77, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on July 8th, 2019 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, July 12th, 2019 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be at a later date. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, July 11th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 2:30 p.m. Family and friends may also visit from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Patricia was born on March 18, 1942 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Edward “Percy” and Mable (Strong) Lee. She married Wayne Wilming on June 18, 1960 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Patricia had various jobs over the years which included Cozy Corners, Eagles Super Market, Betty Janes and retiring from Cremers Grocery Store.

She enjoyed family picnics at Eagle Point Park and Swiss Valley Park, traveling with Nancy and Gene Duwe, going to Cubs games, her cats, Younkers, and her Irish heritage. She especially loved to go shopping (“bumming”) with family and friends.

She is survived by her husband Wayne; three children, Sherri (Dave) Turner, of Dubuque, Mike (Linda) Wilming, of Dubuque, Jeffrey Wilming of Rockford. Grandchildren Hillary Edwards, Samantha Trentz, Kayla Goedken, and Garren Wilming; great grandchildren Lewis Edwards and James Goedken. Her sisters Nancy Duwe, and Barb Durey.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Doty, Margie, Phyllis, Betty, Jimmy, Kenneth, Donna, Jackie, Paul, Bobby and Margaret.

Kathryn E. Tigges

Kathryn E. Tigges, 84, of Dubuque passed away Friday, July 5, 2019 at home surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:00 AM Monday July 8, 2019, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. Jim Miller as Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 2 to 5 PM Sunday July 7, at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road followed by a Wake Service at 5:00 PM.

Kathryn was born December 2, 1934, in Bernard, IA, the daughter of Henry J. and Margaret B. (Decker) Johnson. She married the love of her life, John T. Tigges, April 22, 1954 at New Melleray Abbey, Dubuque. He preceded her in death on October 29, 2008.

She was employed at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works, retiring in 1992, after which she and John traveled extensively. Kathy enjoyed reading, gardening, watching movies, walking, golf, and spending time with her family and friends.

She was an active member of Nativity parish and their Rosary Society and Guild, where she had volunteered in several positions.

She was a loving mother and grandmother who could never say “no”. She will be sadly missed by her two daughters, Juliana (Carey) Lewis and Tracey (Mark) Ring, both of Dubuque; two sons, John T. (Marion) Tigges of Albuquerque, NM and Jay (Brigette) Tigges of Dubuque; nine grandchildren, Andi Lewis, Tony, Koji, Kyle, Michael and Tyler Tigges, Jason Ring, Melissa (Greg) Stokes and Morgan (Chad) Burke; great grandchildren, Makaila and Adriana Tigges, Alex and James Burke, Jacob, Owen, and Kayla Stokes; sisters, Rita Kremer, Eleanor Schueller, Lucy Schmitt, and Geraldine Anthony; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a son, Timothy; a sister, Loretta Ronek; brothers, Raymond, Francis, Ralph, and Henry Johnson; and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law.

Kathryn’s family would like to express a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and the doctors and nurses at Finley Hospital for their wonderful care.

A memorial has been established.

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

Mercedes G. Lynch

Mercedes G. Lynch, 96, of Dubuque passed away at 11:30 PM Friday, July 5, 2019, surrounded by family at her home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 AM Thursday, July 11, 2019, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Rev. Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:00 AM until 10:45 AM Thursday, July 11, 2019, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Arrangements are in the care of the Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque.

Born April 3, 1923, in Galena, IL, she was the daughter of Clement E. and Anna Kieffer Bussan. On November 23, 1948, she married Garland Lynch in Galena, IL. He passed away May 6, 2001.

Mercedes was a registered nurse. She had earned her nursing degree from St. Joseph’s School of Nursing in Chicago.

She was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. She was an avid Chicago Cubs fan, enjoyed playing euchre, was a great baker, especially of pies, and cherished time with her family.

Survivors include three daughters, Patricia Hendricks, Andrea Ryan, and Nicolette McDermott, all of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Alexandria McDermott, Christopher Hendricks, Rachael Hillebrand, and Luke Hendricks, Toby Ryan, Erica Borgerding, Benjamin Ryan, and Gordon Ryan; 18 great-grandchildren; two sisters , Ruth Brashaw of Stockton, IL, and Ann Schreck of Platteville, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Gordon, two son-in laws, Ronald Hendricks and William Ryan, three sisters, Pauline, Eleanor, and Marian, and seven brothers, Cyril, Nicholas, Clement, Joseph, Louis, Gregory, and Phillip.

A special thank you from Mercedes’s family to Hospice of Dubuque, Fr. Rosonke, and Sr. Margaret Ann for all of their compassion, care and concern.

Condolences can be made at www.hskfh.com.

Arthur F. L. Searles

Arthur Frank Leslie Searles, II, 92, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2019, at Mercy One Hospital.

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM Monday, July 8, 2019, at Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. A funeral service will be 1:00 PM Monday, July 8, 2019, at Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service with Deacon Jim Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery.

Born November 12, 1926 in Janesville, WI, he was the son of Arthur Frank Leslie and Merle Elva Wheeler Searles. On July 18, 1959, he married Jean Ann Wing at St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque. She died August 2, 2007.

Art was a 1944 graduate of Brodhead High School and a graduate of University of Wisconsin in Madison. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving in WWII from 1944-1947 and the Korean War from 1950-1952, spending 3 ½ years in Japan, and some time in Washington, DC and Panama. In 1953, Art moved to Dubuque to work at Sherwin Williams Paint. He retired from A.Y. McDonald after 44 years.

He was of the Protestant faith. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, and the University of Wisconsin Alumni. He was a lifelong Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers fan and had enjoyed golfing in his younger years.

Survivors include two daughters, Leslie (John) Sweeney and Lynn (Jim) Searles Gorman, both of Dubuque; two sons, Art “Dids” (Deb) Searles of Dubuque, and Charles (Kim Brown) Searles of Shullsburg, WI; eleven grandchildren, Andrew, Hillary, Ashlee, Jarred, Ian, Hope, Jonnathan, Annalynne, Natalie, Elliott, and Oliver; and ten great-grandchildren, Lexus, Preston, Parker, Liam, Violet, Ayanna, Shelley, Trace, Ethan and Logan; and one niece, Judy Searles Baldwin, of Brodhead, WI.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by one grandson, Matthew Xavier Searles, his parents, one brother, Wheeler, and one nephew, Arthur.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Tri State Dialysis, Dr. Ringold, Dr. Whalen, and staff.

A memorial has been established.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be made at www.hskfh.com.

Lenora L. (Ehlers) Krieg

Lenora L. “Blondie” (Ehlers) Krieg, age 83, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:47 p.m., on Saturday, July 6, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center. To honor Blondie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, July 12, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Pastor Kristian Kincaid officiating. To celebrate Blondie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, July 11, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Blondie was born on September 8, 1935, in Altenburg, Missouri, daughter of Arthur and Lily (Fritsche) Ehlers.

Blondie was united in marriage to the love of her life, Kenneth Krieg, on August 13, 1960, in Perryville, Missouri, and they were blessed with 4 children and 54 wonderful years together before Ken was called home ahead of her on May 26, 2015. Blondie was a hard worker who not only took meticulous care of her family and home, but put her attention to detail to good use as an inspector at the shoe factory in Perryville, Missouri. She loved caring for children and also did babysitting at home for several years. Blondie was a wiz in the kitchen, always busy, whether it was baking something delicious or canning some fresh produce. She was a talented woman who was well known for the beautiful Christmas ornaments she created and shared with family and friends. In her free time, she enjoyed traveling with Ken and the two took several bus trips throughout the years, as well as some grand adventures overseas. We are deeply saddened at losing our beautiful, wonderful, soft spoken mom, grandma and sister, but take some comfort in knowing she is now reunited with her beloved husband in Heaven for all Eternity.

Those left to cherish Blondie’s memory include

her 4 children,
Mark (Lisa) Krieg,
Donald (Barb) Krieg,
Sharon Krieg, all of Dubuque, IA
and Gary (Jennifer) Krieg, St. Catherine, IA;

her 7 grandchildren,
Benjamin, Heidi, Courtney, Kyle, Allison, Amber and Garret Krieg;

her siblings,
Ruth (Royal) Petzoldt, Perryville, MO,
Arlene Pfeiffer, Perryville, MO,
Lily “Cookie” (Dan) Gholston, Denton, TX,
Johnny (Bonnie) Ehlers, Perryville, MO
and Orville (Linda) Ehlers, Fruitland, MO;

and a sister-in-law,
Mary Jane Ehlers, Perryville, MO.

Blondie was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Kenneth Krieg; a sister, Margaret Ehlers in infancy; a brother, Leonard Ehlers; a sister-in-law, Sandy Ehlers; and 3 brothers-in-law, Milton Pohlman, “Sonny” Neager and Russell Pfeiffer.

Blondie’s family would like to thank Pastor Kincaid for his care and support throughout the years, as well as the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, we truly appreciate all that you have done for us.

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

Norman L. Breiner

Norman L. “Norm” Breiner, age 91 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on July 7, 2019, at home surrounded by his loving family.  To celebrate Norm’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2019, at 4:00 p.m. at Steeple Square, 101 East 15th Street, Dubuque, Iowa, 52001 with Pastor Jack Redmond officiating.  Family and friends of Norm’s may gather to visit prior to the service from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Steeple Square.  Burial will be in the Center Grove Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Norm’s family.

Norm was born on January 18, 1928 in Dubuque, a son to Frank and Cleo (Topp) Breiner.  Norm was blessed to spend his entire earthly life on the family farm on Mud Lake Road.  He had purchased it from his father in his early years and was proud to witness it now continue on through the 4th generation of family with his grandson.  Norm has built the legacy which he leaves behind with his beautiful bride, Donna M. Kenniker, whom he had met on a blind date, faithfully by his side the entire time. The devoted (and sometimes intentionally agitating) couple were blessed with 4 wonderful children together, and 3 months ago celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary hand in hand. Norm had built the house he raised, nurtured and protected his family in for generations with his own hands. They humbly spend the first 12 years creating their lives together in the basement until they could afford to get the main floor built for the growing family.  Norm had earnestly worked the farm while also working full-time in factories over the years. He began at Farley and Loetcher and A.Y. McDonald’s before finally investing over 32 years of his working career at John Deere Dubuque Works. Norm eventually retired in 1985, and was honestly conflicted about releasing his final grip on the radial drill in W Building, but he also knew and appreciated that there was another young man out there who could raise his family right behind him and he would now have more time to enjoy his family and farm which were waiting for him at home

Now those who knew and loved Norm, also know that he was so much more than a loving family man and devoted employee. He gained such a wealth of wisdom throughout his life that anyone who was willing to listen could usually find a path to the right direction to head in any situation which arose in their own personal or professional lives. Cutting the grass at Melody Mill during the day was surely more rewarding in the end than the fun they’d regularly have there in the evening. Opening his home to 22 foster children over the years was a gift more precious to them than any pretty box with a bow could ever compare to. Spending time in an orphanage as a child developed an empathy for others which never faded. Almost losing the farm during some rough years early on would bring about a stronger than steel work ethic, an understanding that personal responsibility and honesty will always carry the day, paying your bills on time and avoiding credit will lead to real prosperity, everyone does not have to agree with you (although it’s a lot easier if they just would), and always make amends whenever possible (and yes, paying your union dues in pennies one time can be neatly tucked into a grey area on that one).

Norm was also a quiet man of faith, virtue and integrity throughout his life. He loved his Lord and Savior and had attended church at St. Matthew’s for many years. He eventually found himself feeling closer to God in his daily life and began to live his faith as an example through his words, thoughts and actions and attempted to knowingly share the love he knew with all those around him. Norm raised his family to believe in the Holy Trinity, follow the 10 commandments as a common rule and always follow the golden rule; for he understood that when you set your life upon these three basic foundational principles, the world outside simply cannot shake your house any more than you allow it to. He sadly had become quite discouraged (grumpy may actually be the correct word there) with some of the directions the world has been moving in, but he also understood that some things must necessarily take their course and that allowing the Lord to have control is quite often the hardest battles we’ll ever have to fight in this world. Norm was a simple man who gratefully lived his life with immense depth also. The sounds of the love and lessons his voice has carried tenderly, but authoritatively throughout his 91 years will continue to reign quietly in the minds of those he adored, respected and befriended. We will never be able to mend the tear in our hearts Norm has left behind today, but we also appreciate that our pain wouldn’t exist as it does if he had never been in our lives, so our tears now flow with thankful honor for the one who makes them so. Thank you, Norm for playing your role so perfectly among us and we pray that you are now enjoying the greatest family reunion you’ve ever experienced with not a single care in the world to cause you any pain!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Norm include,

his loving wife of 70 years,
Donna Breiner, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 2 adored daughters,
Pamela “Pam” (Frank) Schumacher, Cape Coral, Florida,
and Candace “Candy” (Bill) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa;

his 10 grandchildren,
Jason (Tricia) Schumacher, Dubuque, Iowa,
Eric (Polly) Schumacher, New Virginia, Iowa,
Brian Schumacher, Des Moines, Iowa,
Sarah Schumacher, Indianola, Iowa,
Wil (Ashley) Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Tiffiny Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Darcy Kelly, Dubuque, Iowa,
Matt (Mandy Wallace) Kelly, Cedar Falls, Iowa,
Melody (Bobby) Coyle, Epworth, Iowa,
and Travis (Nikki Maiers) Breiner, Guttenberg, Iowa;

his 17 great-grandchildren,
Dylan (Kelsey) Schumacher, Abigail Schumacher, Jacob Schumacher, Kyla Schumacher, Ian Schumacher, Skyelynn Schumacher, Addison Schumacher, Everly Schumacher, Parker Wallis, Vanessa Kelly, Shaylynn Kelly, Owen Kelly, Mallory Siegert, Jayden Siegert, Carson Siegert, Kennedy Coyle and Devin Coyle;

his 4 great-great grandchildren,
Lydia Kelly, Echo Bown, Ellie Bown and Enzo Schumacher;

his adopted sister,
Sherrie Snook, California;

along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.

Norm was preceded in death by his parents; his sons, Norm “Butch” Briener, Jr. and Gary Breiner; his brother, Gerald Breiner; and his sisters, Millie (Bruce) Randall and Eunice (Robert) Bauer.

Norman’s family would like to thank Dr. Cao, Dr. Whalen, and their nurses, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of the wonderful care and support they have provided to Norm, and his family.

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

Robert C. Fitzgerald

Robert (Bob) C. Fitzgerald, 87, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Thursday, July 4, 2019, at his home.

Visitation will be held 2-8 p.m. Monday, July 8, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where an American Legion service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday 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. Tuesday July 9, 2019, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post 137. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Bob was born September 6, 1931 in Dyersville, Iowa the son of Cleo and Lucille (Nebel) Fitzgerald. He married Sylvia Gassmann on May 18, 1957 in Worthington, Iowa.

He was an active member of Legion Post #137, lifetime member of the New Vienna VFW Post #1683, the Dyersville Fire Department, and AOH for many years. He was past president and Grand Marshal for the AOH.

Survivors include his children: Judy (David) Kirsch of Dyersville, Jayne Fitzgerald of Edgewood, Jill Schneck of Ackley, Brad (Brenda) Fitzgerald of Dallas, TX, and Barry (Gena) Fitzgerald of Kansas City, MO; grandchildren: Kerri (Mike) Kramer, Brian Kirsch, Krista (John) Dow, Travis (Melanie) Fitzgerald, Jordan (Chris) Ruiz, Katy Fitzgerald, Lisa (Lucas) LaVelle and Katelyn (Skyler) Clark, Mikayla and Madisyn Fitzgerald; great grandchildren: Julien, Jude, and Sylvia Kramer, Eliza Dow, Emma Clark, and Laikynn LaVelle, Jessica Sain; siblings: Jim Fitzgerald of Oelwein, Carol (Leo) Klostermann of Dyersville, Mary Jane Banning of Vancouver, WA, Bev Sampson of Edgewood; in-laws: Betty Gotto of Bankston, Gladys Knepper of Dyersville, Mary Agnes (Jim) Schnier of Bellevue, Lyle Gassmann of Dubuque, Marge Gassmann of Dubuque, Bev Gassmann of St. Landry, LA, Jerry Gassmann of Davenport.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Sylvia in 2000; siblings: Dale Fitzgerald, Lois Fitzgerald, Ed (Karen) Fitzgerald, John (Gene) Fitzgerald; in-laws: Paul Knepper, Marvin (Pat) Gassmann, Betty Gassmann, John Gassmann, Marion “Cookie” Fitzgerald, Keith Banning, Rollie Sampson, Eileen (William) Besler, Connie (Merle) Lueck, Leroy Gassmann, Bob Gassmann, Ken Gassmann, Grace Gassmann.

The family would like to thank hospice nurses Edna and Ryan, and Home Instead Caregiver Tina for their compassionate care.

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