Obituaries Archive

Janet Fessler

Janet Fessler, 82, of Asbury, Iowa and most recently of Assisi Assisted Living in Dubuque passed away on September 11, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 13th, 2019 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Friday at the church. Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is in charge of arrangements.

Janet was born on August 17, 1937 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Ken and Elizabeth (Jochum) Hammel. She married Robert “Bob” Fessler on October 4, 1958 at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Janet worked at Pickle Barrell Subs, Big Apple Bagels and most recently at the Hy-Vee Bakery on Asbury.

Mom was an angel on earth. According to Merriam Webster, an angel is “a person with exemplary conduct or virtue and a spiritual being to act as a messenger of God.” Mom encompassed what it meant to be an angel.

She is survived by her children Ann Hansen, of Manitowoc, WI, Susan (John) O’Neill, of Janesville, WI, Robert “Bob” (Deborah) Fessler, of Pella, IA, Francis (Tammy) Fessler, of Brentwood, TN, Jeannette Fessler, of Dubuque, Andy (MariEllen) Fessler, of Hazel Green, WI, and Nichole (Chad) Schockemoehl, of Dubuque; 23 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren; one brother Bob (Joyce) Hammel.

Janet was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Bob; her mother and father-in-law; sister Rita Bettcher and brothers Jim and Jack Hammel.

A Janet Fessler memorial fund will be established.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Covey, Dr. Mohr and the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Assisi Village for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave to Janet.

Donald R. Sheldon

Donald R. Sheldon, age 52, of Dubuque, Iowa, was called home unexpectedly on August 26, 2019, at home. To honor Don’s life funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., on Saturday at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Tom C. Shinkle of Grandview United Methodist Church officiating. To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 14, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Don was born on November 17, 1966, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Richard and Namie (Aoki) Sheldon.

Don was born and raised in Dubuque and attended Dubuque Senior High School. After high school he attended cosmetology school in Dubuque and graduated in Chicago. Don put his considerable talents with hair color, styling and makeup application to good use, always taking great pride in making sure his clients looked their best when they left his chair. He was always in high demand and women would line up just hoping to get an appointment time with him. Don definitely had an artistic side and also enjoyed putting his special touch on interior design projects. He was united in marriage to Anne Lee in Dubuque, and they had two wonderful sons together. He would later go on to marry Nicole Smeathers in Dubuque. We are saddened at the sudden and unexpected loss of Don from our lives, but take some comfort in knowing that he is now resting in peace.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his 2 children,
Ryan Sheldon, Denver, CO and Blaine (Maggie McGonigle) Sheldon, Chicago, IL;

his 2 grandsons,
James and Hayes Sheldon, Chicago, IL;

his wife,
Nicole Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

his step-daughter,
Silver Losh, Maquoketa, IA;

his father,
Richard Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

his brother,
Timothy (Leah) Sheldon, Dubuque, IA;

and his nephew and niece,
Bryce and Brittany Sheldon, both of Dubuque, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his mother, Namie Sheldon.

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

Marjorie E. Rohwedder

Marjorie E. Rohwedder, 86, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at the Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, September 14, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 13, 2019, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Pence Cemetery, rural Baldwin, Iowa.

Marjorie Ellen Ehlers was born on March 7, 1933 in Monmouth Township, Jackson County, Iowa, to Edward and Ellen Christina (Snyder) Ehlers. She was a 1950 graduate of Baldwin High School. She married Willis Edward Rohwedder on July 22, 1950 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 27, 2004.

Marjorie was a housewife who had also worked at the Spot Café, co-owned the Baldwin DX Station with her husband, and lastly worked for Ben Franklin Store in Maquoketa.

She enjoyed playing bingo, listening to country music, and camping.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Ellen Rickels of Monmouth, IA, Robert (Sherry) Rohwedder of Baldwin, IA, and William “Bill” Rohwedder of Baldwin, IA; 4 grandchildren, Brian, Joni, Becky and Rachel; and 2 great-grandchildren, Austin and Aiden.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a daughter Margaret, a half-sister Leona Miller, and a son-in-law Howard Rickels.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marjorie E. Rohwedder memorial fund has been established.

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

Mrs. Kathleen Klocker

Mrs. Kathleen Klocker, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa, sailed peacefully to heaven on Monday evening, September 9, 2019 at home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM Thursday, September 12 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, where a prayer service will be held at 7:30 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 AM Friday, September 13, 2019 at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as Celebrant.

Kathy was born in Dubuque, Iowa, to her loving parents, Leonard and Louise Stecklein. She grew up in a large, beautiful family of 8 children. From childhood until the end, she was surrounded by the love and support of her siblings, their spouses, and the wonderful nieces and nephews they gave her. Over the years, her large Stecklein family brought her much joy and comfort, as well as my dad’s family, and their closest friends.

In her late 20s, she met Morris B. Klocker, and their courtship quickly led to a loving and loyal marriage that brought them 3 children: Christopher, Michael and Jessie.

Kathy forever enjoyed traveling, and what began as trips with a cousin or friend eventually turned into family vacations – and these, of course, are some of Kathy and Morrie’s favorite memories. She enjoyed exploring big cities and historical places, and managed to get Morris B. to dance her around the world, visiting places such as Italy, Costa Rica, Hawaii, France, England, and Mexico. Kathy and Morrie equally loved the ocean, and so the most special of their trips were at the beach, where the Klockers and McCormicks spent a week playing in the surf, drinking wine and beers, getting too much sun, laughing, and playing games that Kathy usually won. She adored her grandchildren, and to be able to spend extended amounts of time with them was one of her very favorite things in the world.

Kathy was very intelligent and an avid reader. She had a hunger for knowledge, and devoured daily papers, magazines, articles and anything else she could get her hands on. As learning was so important to her, she encouraged her children to work hard in and value their education. And is often the case with readers, Kathy was a writer as well. She had a knack for expressing herself beautifully in letters, cards and notes. She often created little poems for special occasions, like a new baby in the family, an engagement, or a moment she didn’t want to forget. Her husband was a big fan of her poems, and one of his favorites is the poem she wrote of the ocean.

A kind and empathetic woman, it is no surprise that Kathy was an amazing mother. As a little girl, her daughter Jessie remembers Kathy washing tears off her face with a warm washcloth, reminding her that, “Tomorrow is a new day.” Her son Michael has an early memory of her boiling water on the kitchen stove, and hauling it downstairs so the little plastic pool water would be a bit warmer for her children. Most impressively and beautiful however, has been her strength, guidance and dedication to her first-born, Christopher. She was a leader and role model in the Dubuque community, recognizing and advocating for what was best for Christopher. She continuously worked hard to communicate with doctors, psychiatrists and caretakers, to help them better understand her oldest son and his needs. Much of her active reading and learning was dedicated to keeping up with the newest research on Fragile X Syndrome, sharing it with her family, and helping them to understand it as well.

Kathy is survived by her loving husband of 50 years, Morris B, who she loved with all her heart; her children Christopher Klocker of Dubuque, Michael and wife Lily Klocker (of Highlands Ranch, CO), Jessie and husband Kevin McCormick (of Sioux City, Iowa); her three grandchildren Addison Klocker, Jillian Klocker and Wrenn McCormick; her siblings Theresa Houselog, Betty (sister) and Norm Zimmer, Mary (sister) and Jim Smith, June Stecklein (sister-in -law), Denny (brother) and Nancy Stecklein, Len (brother) and Diane Stecklein, Luann (sister) and Danny Hillary.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Morrie’s parents Martina and Vincent Klocker, her brother-in-law Wayne Houselog, brother Jerry Houselog, and special family member Brian McCormick. We strongly believe that all of them were waiting with open arms to welcome her and greet her with a delicious Manhattan.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Home Instead, for their endless support, education and comfort during this difficult time.

A memorial has been established in her name to the Fragile X Foundation.

A VideoTribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.hskfhcares.com.

Eugene F. Schultz

Eugene F. “Gene” Schultz, 90, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Monday, September 9, 2019 at Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2019 at the Miller Funeral home in East Dubuque, IL. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by the members of the Dubuque Marine Corps. League.

Visitation is from 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and after 9:30 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

Gene was born on May 13, 1929 in Freeport, IL, the son of Paul and Emma (Bastian) Schultz. He was united in marriage to Elizabeth C. “Betty” Schilling on April 15, 1950 at the Wesley United Methodist Church in East Dubuque. She preceded him in death on March 4, 2000.

Gene served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.

He worked at Caradco Mfg. Co and Jeld Wen until his retirement in 1991.

Gene was a former member of Carpenters Local #678. He was an avid bowler and member of the Dubuque Bowling Association. One of his biggest joys was bowling (3 generations) with his son and grandson at Nationals in Las Vegas. He enjoyed fishing and his trips to the Diamond Jo. He was also a former Little League coach for East Dubuque.

Surviving are three children, Mike (Laura Schaul) Schultz of Dubuque, Sherri McClain of San Rafael, CA, and Lori Bowers of Dubuque; 10-grandchildren and 15-great- grandchildren; his brother, Harold (Shirley) West of Aurora, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Betty, a son, James C. Schultz in 1974, and a sister, Mildred (Cletus) Weydert.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Whalen & staff at Tri State Dialysis, Kim & staff at Grand Meadows, and the staff at Sunset Park Place for the wonderful care given to Gene.

In lieu of flowers, a Eugene Schultz Memorial fund has been established.

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

Raymond J. Sadler

Raymond J. “Ray” Sadler, 91, of Stonehill, formerly of East Dubuque, was called home peacefully on Sunday September 8, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, September 14, 2019 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery with full military honors by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Ray was born on February 26, 1928 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Clarence and Marie (Polfer) Sadler. He was a member of the United States Army and served Active Duty as part of the Peace Troops post WWII. It was then that he met the love of life, Irmingard Voelk of Durach, Germany. They were united in marriage on July 12, 1955 at Sacred Heart in Fillmore, Iowa.

He worked at the Dubuque Pack until his retirement. Ray also owned Tri-State Water Conditioning Sales and Service for 40 years.

Ray enjoyed being outdoors and entertained many hobbies including bowling, fishing, hunting, camping, woodworking, and especially gardening, which he taught to many of his grandchildren. His greatest pastime was watching the Chicago Cubs as he never missed a game. He also enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family, including his many trips to Germany to visit family and friends. He spent many hours playing games, solving riddles, and joking with those that call him “Opa”. Ray was a hard worker, but always found the time to be with those he cherished.

Those left to cherish Ray’s memory are his soul mate, Irma; daughter Judy (Jim) Mohr of Dubuque, son Merlin (Chris) Sadler of East Dubuque; 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and siblings, Carolyn Dotterweich of Monticello, Iowa, Helen (Virgil) Gaul of Dubuque, Iowa, Delores (Eugene) Ginter of Dickeyville, WI, Inez (Leo) Kinsella of Bernard, Iowa, Joanne (George) Bergfeld of Peosta, Iowa, brother-in-law Edwin Clemen of New Vienna, Iowa and many nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, James Sadler, a sister, Rose Marie, and a son, Francis Sadler.

In lieu of flowers, a Ray Sadler memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice and Stonehill for the loving care they provided to Ray during his final moments.

Irene C. Dirks

Irene C. Dirks, 89, of rural Center Junction, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, September 8, 2019, at Pinicon Place Senior Living in Anamosa after complications of a fall.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 pm Wednesday, September 11, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home in Monticello. Visitation will continue from 10 – 11 am Thursday morning at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church near Monticello prior to funeral services. Funeral service will be held at 11 am Thursday, September 12, 2019, at Wayne Zion Lutheran Church near Monticello with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Wade Reddy will officiate.

Irene was born January 25, 1930 in Earlville, Iowa, the daughter of Harley and Mary (Moorman) Malone. She and her family moved frequently as she grew up. One of her first jobs was double entry accounting at Eclipse Lumber in Manchester and went on to several other jobs in the Anamosa area.

She met John Henry Dirks in March of 1948. Irene worked in Estes Park, CO, when John Henry enlisted in the Army and served in Germany during the Korean War. She married John Henry Dirks on April 23, 1955, at Immaculate Conception Church in Cedar Rapids. Together they farmed and milked cows in Jones County. She also enjoyed working off of the farm as Assistant Postmaster in Center Junction and Scotch Grove.

Surviving are her sons: Colin (Kari) of Coralville, IA and Keith (Jackee) of Center Junction, IA, 5 grandchildren: Ryan (Alyssa) Dirks,of Rockville MD and Alison (Ryan) Richardson and their daughter,Ava, of Stevens Point, WI, Danelle (Chris) Snyder, and their children, Cole and Sage, of Onslow, IA, Kiel Dirks and his daughter, Aaliyah, of Monticello and Richelle Dirks and her sons, Nixon and Rowan, of Wyoming; and a sister, Marilyn (Don) Meier of Lowden, IA.

She was preceded in death by her husband, siblings: Harley “Bill” (Glenna) Malone, and Beulah (Jim) Seehusen.

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

Scott A. Hermsen

Scott A. Hermsen, 35, of Dubuque, Iowa and formerly of Dyersville passed away Thursday, September 5, 2019, at ARC-Carriage Hill Community Living, Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, September 12, 2019 at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Friday from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, September 13, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Scott was born April 2, 1984 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of the late Mark and Lois (Prier) Hermsen. He always greeted and left with a Scotty hug. Scott was such a loving person, he will be missed dearly by everyone that ever knew him.

His favorites were John Deere, Firefighters, and construction equipment. Scott’s favorite drink was “John Deere Pop”, Mt. Dew. He was a resident of ARC in Dubuque for 11 years.

Survivors include his siblings: Cynthia (Philip) Ungs and Adam Hermsen both of Luxemburg, maternal grandfather, Eugene Prier, paternal grandparents: Donald and Grace Hermsen of Dyersville, nieces & nephews: Adalynn, Gracie and Peter Ungs, aunts & uncles: Joseph (Lynn) Hermsen, Gary Hermsen, Alan (Deb) Hermsen, Mary (Howard) Zuckerman, Ann (Pat) Dunkel, Lisa (David) Sweeney, Jane (Brian) Bockenstedt, David Prier, Carl (Julie) Prier, Wayne (Beverly) Prier, Donald (Christine) Prier, Dale (Sandy) Prier, Allen (Joyce) Prier, Mark (Annette) Prier, Daniel (Kim) Prier, Elaine (Cletus) Urbain, Janice (Wayne) Steffen.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lois in July of 2002, his father, Mark in May of 2019, maternal grandmother, Lucille Prier, aunt and uncle, Patricia and Dale Demmer.

Scott was very passionate about collecting pop tabs for camp, so in his memory, please remember to donate your pop tabs to Camp Courageous.

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

Judith A. (Borkenhagen) Clark

Judith Ann (Borkenhagen) Clark, age 80, of Dubuque, died peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, September 7, 2019 after a courageous battle with cancer that weakened her heart and body.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Wednesday, September 11, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road. A time of sharing for Judy will be held 11:00 AM Thursday, September 12, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service. Entombment will be at Linwood Cemetery in the Clark family mausoleum.

Born November 14, 1938 in Beloit, WI, she was the daughter of August Frederick and Goldie Mae Borkenhagen. Born at a small weight, she was a strong individual that could hold her own.

She was united in marriage to Carroll Clinton Clark, her love for life, on February 28, 1959 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Beloit, WI. They met when she was working at Spud Nut Restaurant and he was doing his apprenticeship for tool and die making. They were blessed with 60 years, five children, six grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

After marriage and moving to Dubuque, she worked various jobs from waitressing to a drive-in. With her husband and children, they had several businesses selling Christmas trees, operating laundromats, and apartment buildings.

This allowed her to do her most favorite job, being a mom. Judy was a devoted wife and mother, who enjoyed spending as much time as possible with family and her children. Cars were her passion and she could fix anything. She was very creative and talented. She had a familiar face and was thought to be known by many. Judy was an honest soul and would tell you her thoughts frequently. She was always quick with wit and a joke to make someone smile but would be there with a listening ear no matter how long you needed to talk.

Those left to cherish Judy’s memory include her husband, C.C. Clark; her children, Gail (Gervacio) Clark-Varelo, Craig (Michele) Clark, Chris Clark, Susan (Fred) Davis, and June (Stephen) Markham, all of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Dustin, Ariel, Collin, Samantha, Kirby, and Peggy; one great-granddaughter, Eleanor; one brother, Roger Borkenhagen of Atlanta, GA; and several cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

The family thanks Grand River Medical Center, Dr. Herman, Dr. Tony, Dr. Konz, nurses Sandy and Linda, and oncology staff for their care and concern.

A photo tribute video can be viewed and online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfhcares.com

Ronald T. Horan Sr.

Ronald T. Horan Sr., 80, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday evening, September 5, 2019, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating Ronald’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Monday, September 9, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again after 10 A.M. at the church on Tuesday.

Ronald Thomas Horan was born on January 23, 1939 in Bellevue, Iowa, to John Harry and Thelma Christina (Mangler) Horan. He was educated in Jackson County Country School #2 near Springbrook and attended Bellevue Marquette High School. He married Mary Ann Rockwell in 1963.

Ronald worked as a heavy equipment operator for Union Operating Engineers Local #234, and then owned and operated his own excavating business, Ron Horan Construction for over 50 years.

Ronald was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. He was an avid stock car racing fan and participant, and recreational aviation enthusiast. He enjoyed hunting, canoeing and most importantly spending time with his family and grandchildren. Additionally, he loved his horse, Ambush, and his dog, Shep.

Those left to honor Ronald’s memory include his wife, Mary Horan of Maquoketa, IA; children, Ronald (Delores) Horan Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, and Lisa (Brad) Barnes of Maquoketa, IA; 4 grandchildren, Jacob and Josie Horan, and Abigail and Austin Barnes; a sister Marcella “Sally” Rowan of Andrew, IA; 6 nephews and 8 nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother John.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Ronald T. Horan Sr. memorial fund has been established.

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

Marie E. Dupont

Marie E. (Naumann) Dupont, age 95, of Dubuque and formerly of Sherrill, was called home peacefully at 11:30 a.m., on Thursday, September 5, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Marie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, September 10, 2019, at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, Sherrill, with Rev. Michael J. Mescher officiating and Deacon Loras Weber giving the homily. To celebrate Marie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Monday, September 9, 2019, at Ss. Peter and Paul Church, 5131 Sherrill Road, Sherrill, Iowa, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 2:45 p.m. There will also be visitation at Ss. Peter and Paul Church from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday morning before the funeral services. Burial will be in Ss. Peter and Paul Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Marie was born on December 20, 1923, in Spechts Ferry, Iowa, daughter of Edward and Anna (Schueller) Naumann.

Marie was born and raised in the Sherrill area, where she would spend her entire life before moving to Dubuque in 2009. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Norbert Dupont, on November 26, 1947, at Ss. Peter and Paul Church in Sherrill. They were blessed with 61 years and 8 children together before he was sadly called home ahead of her on October 24, 2009. Marie was a devoted full time wife, mother and homemaker who took great pride in caring for her home and family. Marie’s Catholic faith was extremely important to her, she was a very active member of Ss. Peter and Paul Church and Rosary Society as well as the Catholic Order of Foresters. Marie was very generous in volunteering her time, devoting 42 years to the school in Sherrill, and later spending time visiting with the residents at Stonehill, for which she was happily rewarded with endless hugs. Marie was humbled and truly honored when she was awarded the Governor’s Award for her efforts. In her free time, Marie enjoyed crocheting and doing embroidery work as well as creating beautiful quilts for family and friends. She also had a friendly, competitive side to her personality and enjoyed playing Bingo or engaging in a spirited game of Euchre. Marie had a green thumb and always planted an extensive vegetable garden, canning her bountiful harvest to have on hand for creating delicious meals throughout the year. Beyond a doubt Marie’s family was her entire world, she loved spending time with Norbert and the children and was beyond thrilled when the grandchildren started coming along. We are deeply saddened at losing such a wonderful woman and role model in our daily lives, but take comfort that she is now resting in peace.

Those left to cherish Marie’s memory include

her children,
Joanne (Pres) Dupont Sandoval, Truchas, NM,
Steve (Judy) Dupont, Dubuque, IA,
Donna (Jake) Cota, Dubuque, IA,
Tom (Lori) Dupont, Sherrill, IA,
Mark (Cathy) Dupont, Balltown, IA,
Leon (Julie) Dupont, Sherrill, IA,
Peter (Julie) Dupont, Balltown, IA
and Agnes (Jim) Esser, Dubuque, IA;

her 19 grandchildren;
Stacy, Sarah, Susan, Rob, Dave, Tim, Stephanie, Emily, Matt, Eric, Christopher, Josh, Joe, Randy, Brian, Katie, Amy, Michael and Jordan;

her 36 great-grandchildren;

her siblings,
Doris Ann (Nicky) Wolf, Dyersville, IA,
Harold (Madonna) Naumann, Sherrill, IA
and Bernice (Paul) Ehrlich, Dubuque, IA;

her brother-in-law,
Lester Weber, Dubuque, IA;

and numerous step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Norbert Dupont; a grandson, Ted Cota; 2 great-grandchildren, Bailey Cota and Brecken Dupont; her siblings, Lorraine (Vernon) Weber, Rita (Earl) Kintzle, Ruth Weber and a brother in infancy; and her in-laws, Alfred (Marie) Dupont, Meralda (Leo) Steger, Ralph (Marge) Dupont, Maurine (Jim) Morgan, Bill (Alice) Dupont and Joe (Barb) Dupont.

Marie’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all of Marie’s care givers at Stonehill and with Hospice of Dubuque, their compassion and professionalism was appreciated more than we can express.

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

Marvin H. Leslein

Marvin Henry Leslein, 92, of Hawkeye Care Center died Thursday, September 5, 2019.

Private funeral services will be held.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.  Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F Kennedy Rd, is entrusted with arrangements.

Marvin was born to John and Angeline (Broessel) Leslein on May 29, 1927 in Dubuque County. He married Marilyn Kerth on January 4, 1947 at Immanuel Church in Dubuque, and she preceded him in death on February 17, 2015.

He was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works as a Mechanic/Inspector for 38 years.  He was known to be a practical joker, always laughing with his many friends. He was an avid collector of old-time radios, and spent much time recording old shows on reel to reel tapes.

He also enjoyed hunting and fishing, and researching his ancestry.  After retirement you would find him in his motorhome with Marilyn during which time they would go antiquing for cookie jars (for Marilyn) and radios (for his own collection).

Marvin was the best husband, father, grandfather and brother that anyone could ask for and will be greatly missed.

Surviving are two of his children, Cynthia Leslein, of Dubuque, and Randall Leslein of Rice Lake, WI; his grandchildren, Brooke (Todd) Gassman and Justin Leslein; and three great-grandchildren.

In addition to his wife, Marvin was proceeded in death by his parents; his son, David Leslein; his twin brother Melvin (Carmen) Leslein; and his brother Eldon (Virginia) Leslein.

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

Clarence J. Klein

Clarence J. “Whitey” Klein, age 91, of Rickardsville, was called home peacefully at 1:48 p.m., on Wednesday, September 4, 2019, at Luther Manor, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Whitey’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, September 9, 2019, at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville, Iowa, with Rev. Michael J. Mescher officiating. To celebrate Whitey’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 8, 2019, at St. Joseph Church, Rickardsville, where there will be a parish scripture service held at 5:00 p.m. There will not be visitation at the church in the morning before the funeral service. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, Rickardsville, Iowa. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Whitey was born on August 14, 1928, in Rickardsville, Iowa, son of Andrew and Barbara (Ruden) Klein. He received his education at St. Joseph School, Rickardsville, Holy Cross High School and graduated from Loras Academy in 1946. He also attended Loras College from 1946-1947. He married Rose Marie Hanson on August 19, 1952, at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque. She preceded him in death on January 18, 1978. He then married Delores M. “Dee” Snodgrass Taylor on May 11, 1979, at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, she also preceded him in death on February 3, 2018. Whitey farmed all his life in the Rickardsville area. He farmed until he was 80 and then retired for health reasons and to care for his wife, Dee. Clarence was an active member of St. Joseph’s Church in Rickardsville and served on the Finance Committee, the Buildings and Grounds Committee and the Parish Council throughout his years. He was a Director of the Rickardsville Public School until the Western Dubuque School was formed and the Rickardsville School closed. Whitey also served on the Dubuque County Eminent Domain Board. He was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters (COF) for 50+years and served as Financial Secretary of St. Francis Court #774 in the 1940’s and 1950’s. Whitey was a humble farmer with a strong faith in God and love of family.

Those left to cherish Whitey’s memory include

his children,
Michael (Sue) Klein, Epworth, IA,
Patrick Klein, Rickardsville, IA,
William (Mary) Klein, Peosta, IA,
Barbara (Ted) Maiers, Holy Cross, IA,
Beverly (Mark) Leibfried, Rickardsville, IA,
Gregory Klein, Rickardsville, IA,
Paul (Cyd) Klein, Rickardsville, IA,
Robert (Chris) Taylor, Sioux City, IA
and Gary Taylor, North Carolina;

his 21 grandchildren;

his 33 great-grandchildren;

his son-in-law,
Andy Thomas, Dubuque, IA;

his sisters-in-law,
Elaine Klein, Dubuque, IA
and Mary Jo (Tom) Townsend, Florida;

and a brother-in-law,
Jack (Shirley) Hanson, New Mexico.

Whitey was preceded in death by his parents; his step-mother, Marcella Steger; his 1st wife, Rose M. Klein; his 2nd wife, Delores M. “Dee” Klein; his son, Thomas Klein; his daughter, Lynne Thomas; and 3 brothers, Frank (Rita) Klein, Emmett Klein and Harold (Ady) Klein.

Whitey’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Kirkendall and his nurse Kate, as well as the entire staff of Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind and compassionate care of Whitey throughout the years.

In lieu of flowers memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among his favorite charities.

Darwin E. Bucher

Darwin E. “Butch” Bucher, 83, of Bellevue, passed away on Wednesday, September 4, 2019. No public services will be conducted. Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Darwin was born October 10, 1935 in Northville Township, Illinois, the son of Ward and Dorothy (DeShazo) Bucher. He served in the US Marine Corp. Darwin married Patricia Shotwell on May 7, 1986. Darwin sold gun parts at many gun shows over the years. He could get along with anyone and always gave them time. Darwin had a heart of gold and was very generous. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the highlight of his life, he loved to tease and joke with them all the time. Darwin enjoyed having 4th of July parties and always had “Bucher Boxes” for his grandchildren every Christmas filled with rememberable gifts.

Survivors include his wife, Pat; children, Ward (Shiho) Bucher of Bellevue, Michael Bucher of Japan, Emmett (Donna) Bucher of Bellevue, and Linda (Larry) Ambrosy of Bellevue; 7 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Dawn (Roland) Gillette.

Darwin was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Leona C. Niehaus

Leona C. Niehaus, 100, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Wednesday, September 4, 2019, at MercyOne, Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 3-7 p.m. Sunday, September 8, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, September 9, 2019, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Leona was born November 9, 1918 in Dyersville, Iowa the daughter of Vitus and Josephine (Meyer) Langel. She married Eldrew B. Niehaus on May 1, 1941 in Dyersville, Iowa.

Leona worked at The Ertl Company for 21 years. Leona cared for her husband for many years as he suffered with Parkinson’s disease. For years she went to Oak Crest Manor almost every day and fed him lunch and dinner.

She enjoyed playing BINGO and cards. She was an avid Cubs fan.

Survivors include her two sons: Dave “Moose” (Judy) Niehaus of Dyersville and Jim (Jane) Niehaus of Allen, TX; grandchildren: Bruce Niehaus, Brad (Susan) Niehaus, Brenda (Bryan) Gray, Teddy (Deanna) Glover, Travis Niehaus, Shelli Niehaus (partner, Steve Rudderham), Tony Niehaus, Shawn (Sairung) Niehaus, 15 great grandchildren: 13 great great grandchildren; siblings: Helen Krogman of Dubuque, Alma Loesche of Dyersville and sister-in-law, Arlene Langel of Manchester.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Eldrew who passed in 2008, siblings: Marcella Weber Steger (Alphonse Weber & Edmund Steger), Sylvester (Deloras) Langel, Ambrose Langel, Ray (Sally) Langel, Lucille Langel, Esther Klein Sullivan (Clete Klein & Roger Sullivan), Evey (John) Gaul, Mary (Lyle) Neuhaus; in-laws: Red Loesche, Roy Krogman, Valeria (Paul) Beckman; Jackie Niehaus, wife of grandson, Travis Niehaus.

The family would like to thank the staff at MercyOne Senior Care for their compassionate care.

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