Obituaries Archive

Patricia D. Schmitt

Patricia Diann (Loso) Schmitt, 75, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, January 31, 2019 at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, Dubuque, Iowa.

Services will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 2025 Jackson St., Dubuque, where friends may call from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK is assisting the family.

Patricia was born on July 6, 1943, daughter of Delores (Hamann) Loso and Herman Loso. She graduated from Senior High School in 1961.

Patricia married Richard G. Schmitt on February 3, 1962 and was a homemaker who raised their three children.

Patricia has been a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Gambling was her favorite pasttime; the Q Casino was her home away from home. She also enjoyed taking trips to Las Vegas with her family. Patricia loved shopping and was an expert at finding the best deal. She was an amazing cook who always made everyone’s favorites during the holidays which resulted in having way too much food. Her turkey and dressing will be missed the most. Ca, as she was referred to by her grandchildren, was their biggest supporter and was known to “fix everything.” Patricia was the most kind, generous, and loving person and will be missed by many.

Patricia is survived by her husband, Richard G. Schmitt; her daughter Misti (Larry Flogel), and their children, Hunter, Dylan, and Triclyn; her son Brook (Kimberly) Schmitt and their children, Chandler and Lauren; her daughter Laci (Steven) Ernst and their children, Carter, Melanie, Kylie, and Brecker, and brothers and sisters in law, Kenneth Ranson, Kathy (Gary) Sisler, Marc (Dee) Schmitt, and June (Pat) Hancock.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a loving grandmother, Alma Hamann who helped to raise her; her brother, Robert L. Loso, and her sister, Sandra J. Ranson.

Timothy J. Hoffman Sr.

Timothy J. “Tim” Hoffman Sr., 51, of Andrew, IA, passed away Thursday, January 31, 2019.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 5, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2215 Windsor Ave. Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday, February 4, at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1640 Main St., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 7:30 p.m.

Tim was born August 4, 1967 in Dubuque, the son of Harold P. and Ruth H. (Budde) Hoffman. He graduated from Wahlert High School with the class of 1985, and was an altar server at Sacred Heart Catholic Church throughout his younger years. He married Bridgetta O’Meara on August 2, 1997. Tim was an avid Cubs, Bears, and Nascar fan. He loved to camp and grill out. Tim had a big heart and cared about everyone. He had a beautiful smile, and was deeply proud of his wife and his four boys.

Tim is survived by his wife, Bridgetta of Andrew; four sons, Thomas James (Katie) Hoffman and their son Thomas James Dolan, of Rochester, MN, Timothy “Timmy” (Paige) Hoffman Jr. of Cedar Rapids, Tyler Hoffman, and Trevor Hoffman, both of Andrew; his siblings Ronald (Beth) Hoffman, Sharon (Dick) Feller, Patti (Bill) Dix, and Martin (Karen) Hoffman, all of Dubuque; his sister in law, Maggie Hoffman of Dubuque; his mother in law, Eunice O’Meara of Maquoketa; his siblings in law Katrina O’Meara of Maquoketa, Heather (Adam) Bauer of Dubuque, Amanda (Mike) Bicknese of Oxford Junction, Lynn Adams of MS, Jim (Cheryl) O’Meara of Topeka, KS, Tonisha Christina O’Meara, and Bo Dean John O’Meara, both of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents; his brother David H. Hoffman; his nephew Ronnie Hoffman II; his father in law Dean J. O’Meara; and his brother in law Frank O’Meara.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Timothy J. Hoffman Sr. Memorial Fund .

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

Richard E. Wortley

Richard E. “Dick” Wortley, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 1, 2019 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital, surrounded by his family.

Funeral service will be at 5:00 p.m. Monday, February 4th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Fr. Kevin Goodrich officiating and military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6. Family and friends may visit after 4:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home until time of service.

Dick was born on February 27, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of George and Dorothy (Jones) Wortley, Sr. He is a United States Army Veteran serving two tours in Germany from 1964 to 1973 and completed his service at Camp David.

He married Nancy Kettering on December 5, 1992 in Dubuque.

Dick worked as a carpenter most of his life, he was self-employed in South Carolina and also in Dubuque. In 1985 he took a position at Dubuque Greyhound Park as Assistance Maintenance Director. He was lastly employed with Quad Graphics retiring in 2012.

He enjoyed all sports, he was an avid golfer, bowler and was a great pool shot.

Dick found humor in every situation, he was very devoted to his family and will be miss by all who knew and loved him

He is survived by his wife Nancy; one son Richard (Stephanie) Wortley Jr., of Nashville, TN, five grandchildren, Dallas, Taylor, Brayden, Nolan, and Allison. Two great grandchildren Alexander and Olivia. One sister Jean (Melvin) Key, of Dubuque. Father and mother-in-law Theron and Alice Nothaft; brothers and sisters-in-law Steve (Colleen) Kettering, of Dubuque, Pam (Norm) Thompson, of Marion, IA, Michael Kettering, of Dubuque, and Dave (Jenny) Kettering, of East Dubuque, IL, and Thelma Wortley of Dubuque along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, George Wortley Jr, Jack Wortley, Patricia “Pat” (Bob) Edminster, Bill Wortley, Jim Wortley, and Robert Wortley in infancy.

In lieu of flowers a Richard E. Wortley memorial fund was established.

The family wishes to extend very special thank you to the entire staff of Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital especially the ICU and 5th Floor nursing staff along with Dr. Ronald Schope for all their wonderful care and compassion they gave to Dick and his family.

Arline H. Dieterich

Arline Helen Dieterich, 100, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on January 27, 2019. Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, February 4, 2019 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church with an Order of the Eastern Star service at 9:30 and followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Arline was born November 25, 1918, in Dubuque, theonly child of Gilbert Julius Dieterich and Bessie Frances (Young) Dieterich.

Arline was a proud lifelong resident of Dubuque attending IrvingElementary, Washington JuniorHigh and graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1937.

While a student at the University of Dubuque, she also attended The Dubuque Academy of Music. She graduated from the University of Dubuque, class of 1941.

After graduation, Arline taught in Janesville, Iowa for a year.

She worked for the DCSD as a “traveling teacher”. She was an elementary music teacher from1944-1984at Fulton, Jackson, Bryant and Sageville Elementary Schools, retiring on June 1, 1984.

Arline wished to be remembered as a”lady of principles”. Home was important to her, where her heart was, and where she wanted to live out her lifeamong the rolling hills of beautiful, what was then called Woodlawn Park addition, where countless hours of peace and quiet were a source of enjoyment.

Faith was also very important to Arline; and she stayed young at heart as she cared for her parents and grandparents as they aged, and during her retirement, volunteered for 19 years at Finley Hospital.

Arline was a 71 year member of the Lamda Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, an international society of women educators. She served in various capacities, including President, Vice-President and Parliamentarian. She was also a 74 year member of the Order of the Eastern Star Julien Chapter 125, where she also served in various positions, including Chaplain, Marshal, and Treasurer.

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

She was preceded in death by her parents, maternal grandmother Mary Elizabeth Patterson Young; paternal grandparents H.O. and Anna Dieterich; aunts, uncles, cousins, countless friends, neighbors, and former students who through the years were like extended family.

Memorials may be given to the University of Dubuque, Finley Hospital, St Luke’s United Methodist Church or DCSD Education Foundation.

Jordan R. Kunde

Jordan R. Kunde, 34, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Jordan’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 3 to 7 P.M., Monday, February 4, 2019 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Jordan Robert Kunde was born on July 19, 1984 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Richard Harold and Anne (Spaete) Kunde. He was a 2003 graduate of Midland High School and then attended Iowa State University in Ames. He married Abby Shillingford on August 23, 2018 in Tipton, Iowa.

Jordan had worked for Rochester Motor Cars as a car sales manager for several years. He currently was working as a performance consultant for Cox Automotive.

He enjoyed snowmobiling, stock car racing, and hanging with family and friends. He had a love of farming and was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Those left to honor Jordan’s memory include his wife, Abby Kunde of Baldwin, IA; a son, Samuel August Kunde of Baldwin, IA; a step-daughter, Olivia Skogerbo of Kasson, MN; his mother and step-father, Anne and Dave Coffman of Muscatine, IA; his father and step-mother, Richard and Susan Kunde of Baldwin, IA; brothers, Andy Kunde of Coggin, IA, and Spencer Kunde of Williamsburg, IA; step-sister, Chelsea (Mike) Van Blaricom of Davenport, IA; step-brother, Andrew (Erin) Coffman of Severance, CO; paternal grandmother, Lois Kunde of Maquoketa, IA; maternal step-grandfather, John Coffman of Davenport, IA; a nephew Keenan Hall; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Harold Kunde, maternal grandparents Robert and Dolores Spaete, paternal step-grandparents Sylvia and Cecil Costello, and maternal step-grandmother Roberta Coffman.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be sent to Ohnward Bank and Trust in Baldwin under the account Kunde Strong.

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

Delbert J. Kaiser

Delbert J. “Delby” Kaiser, 85, of Darlington, Wisconsin, formerly Kieler and Dickeyville, Wisconsin, died Thursday, January 31, 2019, at Lafayette Manor in Darlington. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 5, 2019, at Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends may call from 3-7 p.m. Monday at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center in Kieler where the parish wake service will be at 2:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Tuesday at the parish center before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Delby was born on July 16, 1933, in Grant County, Wisconsin, the son of John C. and Margaret (Gerhard) Kaiser. He married Alice J. Riesselman on June 6, 1959, in East Dubuque, Illinois. She preceded him in death on April 27, 2017. Delby served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and worked as a carpenter for many tri-state area carpenters.

Delby was a member of AA, celebrating 34 years of sobriety. He was also a member Immaculate Conception Church, the Knights of Columbus, Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department, the Sandy Hook Tug-of-War Team for many years, and an assistant Webelo Leader for the Boy Scouts. Delby enjoyed hunting, camping and watching the Packers. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors include four daughters, Theresa (James) Davis, Montfort, WI, Mickey (Mike Fields) Kaiser, Darlington, WI, Cathy Demuth, Waterloo, IA, and Lori (Greg) Goodman, Oakdale, MN; a son, Dave (Noreen) Kaiser, Kieler; a sister, Annette Miller, Dubuque, IA; three brothers, Richard Kaiser, Galena, IL, Robert (Judy) Kaiser, Kieler, WI, and Harold Kaiser, Haltom City, TX; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; a son, Willard P. “Willy” Kaiser on January 19, 2004, a son-in-law, David W. Demuth on February 6, 2007; an infant twin granddaughter (Erica’s twin), Erin Kaiser, on January 17, 1987; a brother, Merlin; two sisters-in-law, Bernita and Shirley Kaiser; and a brother-in-law, Richard Miller.

An Delbert J. Kaiser Memorial Fund has been established.

Delbert’s family would like to thank the staffs of Darlington Memorial Hospital and Lafayette Manor.

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

Frances M. Klaren

Frances M. Klaren, 91, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Wednesday, January 30, 2019 at Mercy Medical Center in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Monday, February 4, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue at the funeral home Tuesday from 9-10 a.m. prior to funeral services. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 5, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, with burial in St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Frances was born March 11, 1927, in Farley, Iowa the daughter of William and Mary (Drees) Stelken. Frances attended St. Joseph school in Farley graduating in 1944. She continued her education, obtaining her teaching certificate from the University of Dubuque. Frances taught in a one room school house. She married Urban J. Klaren on June 7, 1951 in Farley.

Frances was a farm wife for many years and worked side by side with her husband. She was a CNA at Shady Rest until her retirement. Frances was an excellent baker, her rhubarb pie was unmatched. Her pride and joy were her four grandchildren, and she spoiled them with all her love, affection and homemade goodies. She was a proud grandmother, she enjoyed watching them excel in their academic endeavors as well as athletics and band. Her love for teaching never waned as she volunteered as a teacher’s helper in her daughter-in-law’s classroom. Her faith was very strong and meant a lot to her, supporting her parish was a priority. Her grandmotherly touch was felt throughout her community, as she profoundly affected the lives of many people.

Frances is survived by her son: Tom (Kay) Klaren of Dyersville, daughter-in-law, Joan Klaren of Dyersville, grandchildren: Nicholas Klaren of Cedar Rapids, Dr. William Klaren of Racine, WI, Brian (Samantha) Klaren of North Liberty, Dr. Rachel (Brandon) Bollaert of Milwaukee, WI, great grandson: Jackson Thomas Klaren, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Urban in 1972, one son, Daniel Klaren in 2011, siblings: Lucille (Ambrose) Arnold, Anita Stelken in infancy, in-laws: Nick (Armella) Klaren, Les (Delores) Klaren, Veronica (Earl) Cole, Lucille (Donald) Cole, and Dorothy (Ben) Dueschner.

The Klaren family would like to thank the nursing staff at Mercy Dyersville and Dubuque for their excellent care and compassion. A special thanks to Edna Scherbring with Hospice of Dubuque.

Memorials may be directed to St. Francis Xavier School and Beckman Catholic High School.

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

Donald G. Wernke

Donald G. “Don” Wernke, age 80, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:20 p.m., on Thursday, January 31, 2019, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital surrounded by his loving family. To honor Don’s life, funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, February 4, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, with Deacon John Stierman officiating. To celebrate Don’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m., until the time of services at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, February 4, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Don was born on September 8, 1938, in Edgewood, Iowa, son of Henry and Ida (Digman) Wernke.

Don attended Holy Ghost School and went on to graduate from Dubuque Senior High School. He was a hard worker who put his knowledge and skills to good use in the maintenance department with Klauer Manufacturing for 35 years, until his well earned retirement. Don was united in marriage to Linda Koenig, on May 13, 1961, and they were blessed with 3 children, before they would eventually go their separate ways. He was later united in marriage to Barbara Johnson, on May 6, 1972, and they were blessed with 31 wonderful years and 3 children together, before she was sadly called home ahead of him on August 28, 2003. Fortunately, Don would go on to find love once again and would be united in marriage to Helen Vondran Maas, on August 24, 2012, in Dubuque. Don had an outgoing personality and enjoyed spending time hanging out at the Boat Club with his friends swapping stories, and in his younger days was quite the boxer. He was well known for always being ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, no matter the time of day or night. In his free time, Don also enjoyed watching any sport the Iowa Hawkeyes were playing, or heading out with his rod and reel in hand, to spend the day on the river in hopes of catching “the big one”. He was also quite proud of his domestic skills when it came to sewing on buttons or grilling out for family gatherings. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our husband, dad, grandpa and brother, but are grateful for the multitude of wonderful memories he leaves with us to cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his wife,
Helen Wernke, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Andrew (Sara) Wernke, Columbus, GA,
Donald Joseph Wernke, Tucson, AZ,
Jeffery Wernke, Flagstaff, AZ,
Jennifer (Roger Bartell) Wernke, Galena, IL,
Brenda (Dennis) Brehm, Dubuque, IA
and Jason (Melissa) Wernke, Dubuque, IA;

his 10 grandchildren;

several great-grandchildren;

several great great-grandchildren;

his step-children,
Debra Kotz, Dubuque, IA,
Clayton Bailey, Dubuque, IA,
William Bailey, Dubuque, IA,
Carl (fiancé Jill) Bailey, Nevada,
Donald (Carol) Maas, Dubuque, IA
and Leilani Maas, Dubuque, IA;

his siblings,
Fred “Fritz” (Barbara) Wernke, Solana Beach, CA
and Diane “DeeDee” Hasken, Dubuque, IA;

and a sister-in-law,
Pat Wernke, Dubuque, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara Wernke; a sister, Mary Root; 2 brothers, John “Stretch” (Mary) Wernke and Hank Wernke; a brother-in-law, Dave Hasken; and a step-son, Robert Bailey.

Don’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital, and Stonehill for their kind, compassionate and professional care of Don and his family.

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

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

Ronald L. Vosberg

Ronald L. Vosberg, 81, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died Wednesday, January 30, 2019, at Meriter Hospital in Madison surrounded by his family. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 4, 2019, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery with military honors accorded. Friends may call from 2-6 p.m. Sunday at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City where the parish wake service will be at 1:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9-10:15 a.m. Monday at the church before the service.

Ron was born on September 28, 1937, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of George A. and Marie M. (Wedig) Vosberg. He married Marilyn M. Gerlach on June 20, 1964. She preceded him in death on July 20, 2001. Ron farmed and worked at John Deere Dubuque Tractor Works. He served in the US Navy and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Tin Can Sailors.

Ron enjoyed fishing, traveling in his motor home, John Deere 2-cylinder tractors, playing cards, water fights with his grandchildren, getting up early and a good cup of coffee. He was a person who loved visiting with others.

Survivors include his daughters, Renee (Don) Rider, Rewey, WI, and Janet (Ric) Hottenstein, Platteville, WI; his sons, Troy Vosberg and Scott (Wendy) Vosberg, both of Cuba City; a special friend, Margaret Murray, Cuba City, WI; a sister, Jean Puchalski, of Milwaukee, WI; a brother, David (Mary Jo) Vosberg, Valparaiso, IN; and fourteen grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, George and Marie; a daughter, Terri Ann; two sisters, Pauline Gratz and Mary “Joyce” Hoppenjan; and three brothers-in-law, Dick Hoppenjan, Bill Gratz and Eugene Puchalski.

A Ronald L. Vosberg Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Thomas E. Graham

Thomas Edward Graham, died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Monday, January 28th. Visitation will be from 3:00-7:00 p.m. Friday, February 1st, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 2nd at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Rev. Steven Rosonke will officiate. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home is entrusted with arrangements.

Tom was born July 30, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa to Joseph G. and M. Harriet Graham. Tom received his education from St. Columbkille grade school, Loras Academy and Loras College. He served in the ROTC at Loras Academy, and went on to service with the U.S. Army. He married Mary Jo Birkett on January 7, 1961 at Nativity Church.

Tom was an industrious, hardworking man, a true visionary, a teacher and leader and passed on these values. He began his career at Sears & Roebuck as manager of the electrical department. He then began selling real estate throughout the west end, with his uncle Jack Schiltz, until he became co-owner of Graham’s Style Store for Men. This is when his community involvement escalated. His passion was ensuring downtown Dubuque and the community, flourished. Part of the revitalization included buying Stampfer’s Department store, along with starting several other downtown businesses. He had a hand, or say, in nearly everything related to the revitalization of the downtown area. A few of his accomplishments include: two-time President of the Dubuque Merchants Association, President of the Main Street Association, Committee to save the Town Clock and have it moved to its current location, “Sertoman of the year” honors and helping establish a second Knights of Columbus court and being the charter Grand Knight. He also served on the following boards: Dubuque Racing Association, Sertoma, Mercy Hospital, Clarke College and Dubuque Men’s Association. And he was a member of the following: Rotary, Squires, 6:60, Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Dubuque Merchants Association.

When he retired from the clothing store he began his second career with Hoffman-Schneider Funeral Home arranging pre-needs. Tom was not a man to let grass grow under his feet. This career allowed him to use his compassion and caring nature to help others deal with the final phase of their lives.

Tom was a very faith-filled man. He was a 57 year active member of St. Anthony’s parish: chair of the fall festival committee for several years, parish council member, co-chair of the fundraiser for religious retirement, Eucharistic minister, and many other activities for the church. He also participated in Emmaus and CEW weekends.

One of Tom’s strongest beliefs was no one should ever be alone in this world, which is why there were always extra place settings at the family dinners and holiday celebrations. Tom was a mentor and teacher to everyone without even knowing it.

Tom’s family and friends meant everything to him. His motto in life was “work hard, play hard”. He always made time to attend kids’ functions. He was an avid outdoorsman, golfer and everything water related. He could often be found taking time off work to teach these activities to kids and grandkids. He founded the Graham Open golf tournament in 2000, as an excuse to bring family and friends together. He was the life of the party with his entertaining sense of humor, quick wit, inviting and friendly smile and addictive personality. He was a loving, caring man that would drop anything for a family member or friend. Everyone he met became a family member – he never met a stranger.

Tom is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Jo, children Ed & Anne Graham, Ann Graham & Jerry Breiby, Bob & Brenda Graham and Don & Lori Graham, grandchildren Jessie Graham, Eric & Amberlyn Graham, Nick Graham & Stephanie Christianson, Ellie & Logan Koenig, Calli & Casey VanCleve, Tammy & Craig Kirch, Wendy Breiby, and Melanie Boehnen, great grandchildren Breana & Connor Stevens, Ahanu Mackey and Jeremiah Kirch and great, great grandchildren Finnley & Rosie Stevens; Brothers Jim & Jane Graham, Joe Graham and John & Sharon Graham, Brothers and sisters in law Eileen Birkett, John & Jan Birkett, Rose & Al Main, Ruth Frantzen, Beth Splinter, Tom & Thalia Birkett and Kay & John Peters, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Jim Schneider and his staff.

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

Velene K. Ruff

Velene K. Ruff, 79, of Lost Nation, Iowa and formerly of Maquoketa passed away on Tuesday morning, January 29, 2019, at her home.

A celebration of Velene’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Saturday, February 2, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home. Cremation will follow the service and burial will be at the Bridgeport Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

Velene was born on July 25, 1939 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Ralph and Velma (Kintzle) Gertenbach. She attended Maquoketa schools. She married Clarence Ruff on May 26, 1956 at the Methodist parsonage by Rev. Nothdurft. To that union four children were born.

Throughout Velene’s life she worked as a waitress at the Nickel Nook, Custard Bowl, The Spot Café, and the Green Mill Café. She co-owned and kept books for Ruff’s Auto. She also held jobs at Pacific Coast Feather Company, Maquoketa Senior Center and DAC, Inc.

Velene enjoyed reading, playing Scrabble, completing jig-saw puzzles, counted cross-stitch, crafting, gardening, and collecting Santa Clauses. But most of all, she enjoyed spending time with friends and family.

Velene is survived by her children Bill (Nancy) Ruff of St. Peters, MO, John (Diane) Ruff of Preston, IA, and Deanna (Dante) Merrick of Lost Nation, IA; 9 grandchildren, Jennifer, Bridget (Matt), Lindsay (Bob), Amanda, Jackie (Emily), Kristin (DJ), Clarence (Alexa), Velene (Clifton), and Marianne; 16 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Carol Honigmann of Lost Nation, IA, and Joyce Rohrbaugh of WV. She was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, her parents, sister Sharon, son David, and grandson Butch.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Velene K. Ruff memorial fund has been established.

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

Evelyn Beversdorf

Evelyn Beversdorf 72, of Dubuque passed away Saturday, January 26, 2019 at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 1, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road, where friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 31st. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Evelyn was born October 20, 1946 in Dubuque, daughter of Peter and Margaret (Kruse) Johnson. She married Thomas Beversdorf, August 9, 1970 in Durango.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and Mr. Terry’s University of Beauty. She owned and operated Evie’s Beauty Cellar for 45 years retiring in 2014.

Evelyn enjoyed special time with her grandson. She had a fine collection of dolls, and loved to shop. She also enjoyed reading and embroidering. She was very generous to many local charities. She was always looking out for her family and friends.

Surviving is her husband, Thomas Beversdorf; son Shawn Beversdorf; grandson, Joseph Beversdorf, all of Dubuque; her mother, Margaret Johnson, of Durango; a sister, Margaret Schemmel, of Durango; two brothers, Irvin Johnson and Kevin Johnson, both of Durango; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father Peter; her mother and father-in-law, Jenny and Sylvester Beversdorf; and a brother-in-law, James Schemmel.

A Evelyn Beversdorf Memorial has been established.

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

James P. Furlong

James P. Furlong, 73, of Dubuque passed away Monday, January 28, 2019 at Bethany Home.

Friends may call from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, February 1, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home, 1640 Main Street. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post 6.

Jim was born November 2, 1945 in Dubuque, son of Arthur and Dorothy (Herrman) Furlong. He served his country with the U.S. Air Force during Vietnam. He retired from Clarke College.

Jim was an avid Cubs fan and also loved the Minnesota Vikings. He enjoyed golfing with family and friends. He was a history buff and reading was one of his favorite pastimes.

Jim is survived by two children, Kerry Hammel (Bill Doebler), of Grand Rapids, MI and Cory (Chrissy) Furlong, of Dubuque; two brothers, Alan Furlong, of Dubuque and Thomas Furlong, of Iowa City, IA; a sister-in-law, Joan Furlong, of Dubuque; and his former wife, Maxine Pruse, of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Arthur Furlong; and his sister, Carole Meyer.

Thank you to the staff at Bethany Home for their excellent care.

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

Lisa A. Kloft

Lisa A. Kloft, age 53 of Sherrill, Iowa completed her earthly journey on January 9, 2019 after a tragic fire at her home. To celebrate Lisa’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Tri-State Community Church, 12937 Derby Grange Road, Dubuque, Iowa with Pastor Jack Redmond officiating. Service times will be announced after her loving husband, John who was also injured in the housefire, has had more time to heal. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque in early summer. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Lisa’s family.

Lisa was born on October 17, 1965 in Maquoketa, Iowa, a daughter to Ivan and Betty (Arensdorf) Kloft. Sadly, Lisa’s father was called home when she was only a little girl, but thankfully Betty and the family were truly blessed when James Rauscher walked into their lives and committed himself to loving them all as his own. Lisa always enjoyed having a little fun in the summer when some downtime presented itself, and on one of those relaxing days with friends on the river, she met her true love, John Joseph Oglesby. The two became inseparable from that point on and continued to spend the next 34 years together. They were blessed with one son, John James Oglesby along the way and Lisa always knew she had found the love which would last a lifetime with her 2 boys by her side.

After Lisa had graduated from high school, she attended Capri College in Dubuque and shortly after began her career in cosmetology. She enjoyed the 7 years she was able to work with her friends and clients at City Looks in Kennedy Mall, but she also thoroughly enjoyed the time she’d get to catch up with her friends and family members at home while keeping them all trimmed up and looking good right in the comfort of her own kitchen. Lisa eventually decided it was time for a change in her professional career and took on her new challenge at Flexsteel Industries. She invested over 14 years there before putting a few more years in at Eagle Window and Door, and finally faithfully spent the last 4 years at Casey’s Convenience Store in Key West; where she may have actually spent quite a bit more time visiting with friends and co-workers than she would readily and openly admit.

Lisa took pride in everything she did and her appearance was no exception. She was a natural beauty (so it didn’t take much work on her part) and she never walked out the door without putting on her best. Lisa absolutely adored her family each and every day, especially the 3rd and 4th loves of her life, Jesse and James, her Doberman Pinshers who religiously kept her company for 14 years until they passed last year. Lisa learned early in life that a little personal time had its place in the day too. She was generally a gentle, kind and quiet soul, but when she sat down to watch Ellen, or Dr. Phil you could occasionally hear her laugh, cry, or even voice an opinion or two if the TV audience wasn’t correctly hearing what she had heard. Lisa walked softly throughout her much to short 53 years with us. Her love was sincere, and her patience ran deep, but one thing is for certain when it comes to her impact on the world; Lisa touched more lives than you could count and thankfully every one of them possesses a wonderful memory of her which will hopefully help mend the many broken hearts she leaves behind today. Thank you, Lisa, for allowing your light to shimmer ever so softly and we pray that you find true peace while laying poolside in your new Heavenly Estate until we see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Lisa include,

her husband,
John Oglesby, Sherrill, Iowa;

her son,
John Oglesby, Dubuque, Iowa;

her siblings,
Kelly (Rock) Munsee, South Carolina,
Ivan (Jeanette) Kloft, Colorado,
Aimee (Guy) Wiegert, New Mexico,
Carl (Janine) Rauscher, Maryland,
and Dawn (Scott) Savary, Dubuque, Iowa;

her brother-in-law,
Ken (Kelley Hall) Oglesby, Dubuque, Iowa;

her sister-in-law,
Luann Thompson, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Lisa was preceded in death by her parents.

Lisa’s family would like to sincerely thank the Sherrill Fire Department, the Dubuque County Sherriff’s Department, Mercy Hospital, the University of Iowa, along with all of the generous people and businesses in the community who have been very kind in the giving of their time, talents and treasure to help her family through these very difficult days. May God bless you all for your efforts!

Online condolences may be left for Lisa’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Oakley Bandy

Oakley “Oakie” Bandy, 82, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, January 27, 2019 surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 31st, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury, Rd., Dubuque, and from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. Friday, February 1st, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Rd. Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, February 1st, at St. Peter Lutheran Church with burial following at Linwood Cemetery.

Oakie was born on March 12, 1936 in Dubuque, the son of Donald and Iona Bandy. He married Donna (Daughetee) Bandy on June 22, 1957. They were happily married for 61 years. Together they have 3 children, Oakley, Kevin and Kelly.

Oakie was very mechanically inclined whether it was tinkering on projects or back in the day with his # 10 stock car that led him to many wins and great memories. Oakie proudly retired with over 30+ years as a maintenance mechanic from John Deere. He also had a strong passion for music and could be found playing and singing along side of his family and friends. He also enjoyed entertaining residents at nursing homes, shoppers at the local farmers market and other events in the community.

Oakie treasured the time he spent traveling to different destinations especially Florida with his devoted wife Donna, family, and friends and creating lasting memories.

Oakie and Donna loved spending time together and loved their Sunday drives and their walks in Eagle Point Park.

He was a good neighbor and friend and could be found putzing around the neighborhood on his tractor alongside his brother Dan.

His family, siblings, and friends is one of the biggest blessings he was so grateful for, he always showed overflowing love, kindness, patience, respect and he treasured the memories they made together. He very much enjoyed watching his family participate in activities and events, along with his wife you could say they were the proudest grandparents in the crowd. He was always there to support in good times and in bad with his positive outlook giving wise advice, teaching and challenging people to learn new things and always encouraging them to be their best selves.

Oakie had a unique ability to connect with every person he met and with his genuine personality and smile leaving a lasting impression and would end in turning strangers into friends. His gentle strength, sincerity, and genuine nature were one of a kind and a treasure to every life he touched.

Oakie left behind to carry on his legacy to his children, Oakley (Cindy) Bandy Jr., Kevin (Brenda) Bandy, and Kelly (Eugene) Hingtgen; 13 grandchildren, Shelley, Carrie, Alisha, Betsy, Abbey, Justin, Brittany, Oakley, Tyler, Cassie, Emily, Alaytra, and Evan; 21 great grandchildren. His sibling, Dan (Sue) Bandy, in-laws – Larry Daughetee, Ruthie (Dave) Jarrard, in-laws -, and Grace Daughetee.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Donna Bandy, parents Donald and Iona Bandy, siblings and their spouses Sue (Larry) Hurst, Don (Connie) Bandy, father and mother in law Lyle & Ruth (Sear) Daughetee, in-laws and their spouses – Luella (LaVern) Pickel; Mickey (Vince) Troy; Joey (Elmer) Pickel, Lyle Daughetee and Jane Daughetee ; great grandchildren, Jeffrey and Angel.

Memorials may be made to the Oakie Bandy Memorial Fund. The family would like to thank all the caregivers and friends over the years.

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