Obituaries Archive

Katherine G. Knipper

Katherine G. Knipper, 86, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Friday, January 24, 2025, at home surrounded by her loved ones.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 6 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue Tuesday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral Mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dan Knipper will officiate with Rev. Tom McDermott and Rev. Chris Podhajsky concelebrating.

Katie was born March 10, 1938, in Cascade, daughter of Peter and Katherine Hosch. She married Larry Knipper on September 5, 1959, in Cascade, Iowa. Together, they raised their children and operated a dairy and hog farm in North Fork Township until retiring to Dyersville. After moving to town, she worked at Dairy Queen for over 20 years. Katie loved gardening, canning, cooking, baking, sewing, crocheting, monthly card parties, painting ceramics and was also considered the family historian. She was an active member of the St. Jude’s Mothers’ Club. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: John (Deb) Knipper of Clear Lake, Michele (David) Kucharczyk of Onalaska, WI and Jude (Stacy) Knipper of Omaha, NE; daughters-in-law, Vicki Knipper of Marion and Shirley (Mark) Singsank of Dyersville; 11 grandchildren; 6 great grandchildren; in-laws: Norma Cassidy of Bettendorf, Anna (Bernie) Manternach of Monticello, Reverend Daniel Knipper of Decorah and Julie Hosch of Peosta.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry in 2013, sons, Peter in 1991 and David in 2017, her parents, parents-in-law, Andrew and Theresa Knipper; siblings: George (Lois) Hosch, Harold (Irene) Hosch, Edwin (Millie) Hosch, Margaret (Don) Koopmann, Mary (Leroy) Trumm, Rose (John) Koopmann and John Hosch; in-laws: Norman Knipper, infant twin brothers, Gerald (Donna) Knipper and John Cassidy.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Richard J. Soens

Richard J. Soens, age 89, passed away suddenly on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at the University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City, Iowa, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Richard’s life, visitation will be held Wednesday, January 29 from 9:15 to 10:45am at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street, Dubuque, Iowa followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11am with Rev. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial services will immediately follow at St. Johns Cemetery, Placid where military rites will be accorded. A livestream of the funeral mass can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Richard was born on August 9, 1935, the son of Julius and Mary (Organ) Soens. He graduated from Ryan High School and worked at John Deere for many years. Richard proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960.

On December 3, 1999, Richard married Bea (McDermott) at St. Patrick’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Together, they created a blended family of seven children, twelve grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Richard was a hard-working, gentle, and soft-spoken man with wisdom, integrity, generosity, humor and a calming presence. He enjoyed years of playing golf with his buddies, most of whom are in heaven now, though he cherished keeping in touch with his good friend, Joe Wagner.

He was a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and enjoyed watching sports. He also spent time on his computer, particularly searching YouTube, and remained steadfast in his faith and Christian beliefs.

Richard is survived by his wife, Bea; children, Mike Soens of Black Canyon City, AZ,  Jayne (Chuck) DeBrular, of Phoenix, AZ, and Tom Soens of Delhi, Iowa; step children, Fran (Steve) DeJong, David Bisenius Jr., and Joe Bisenius; grandchildren, Tyler Soens, Cody (Kimber) Mueller, Kara (Austin) Maxwell, Jason Mueller, Jacob and Matthew DeJong, Brady and Cody DeBrular, Garrett (Katie) Bisenius, Zachary (Callyn) Bisenius, and Gabrielle Bisenius; and great-grandchildren, Liam and Brian Mueller, Marshall and Kamdyn Soens, and Thalia Bisenius.

He is also survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Rev. Joseph E. McDermott, SVD, Patrick (Patricia) McDermott, Madeline McDermott, Shirley McDermott, and Maureen McDermott.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter-in-law, Sandra Bisenius; a step son, Brian Bisenius; a grandson, Jonathan Bisenius; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law; Mary Joan (Jim) Ernst, Helen Ann (Don) Kraemer, Fran (David) Raab, Jerome McDermott, Mike (Lois) McDermott, Tom (Erica) McDermott, Anthony McDermott, Linus McDermott, and Chuck McDermott.

The family is deeply saddened by the loss of their husband, father, grandfather, and friend but discover subtle moments of comfort in knowing that he is now in heaven, free of the unexpected health issues that have plagued him the past few months.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Jennifer Schope and Dr. Cao for the exceptional care they provided to Richard over the years.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Veterans Freedom Center or the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.

David J. Hunt

David J. Hunt, 87, of Newton, Iowa and, formerly of Peosta, Iowa, passed away on Friday, January 24, 2025, at Newton Village Retirement Center in Newton, Iowa, surrounded by his family.

Visitation for David will be held from 2 to 7 p.m., Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home, 894 Peosta Street, Peosta. Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at the Funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for David at 10:30 a.m., at Holy Family Catholic Church in (New Melleray) Peosta, Iowa, with Rev. Martin Obeng presiding.  Burial will be held in the Holy Family Cemetery with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion, John White  Post #650.

He was born on October 3, 1937, in Earlville, Iowa, son of John and Marcella (Scheyer) Hunt.  On June 10, 1961, he was united in marriage to Rita Mae Ernzen at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa.

He was a Veteran, having served in U.S. Army for two years and in the reserves for an additional six years.  After he returned from active duty he was employed at a car dealership in Maquoketa and also at John Deere Dubuque Works until he was able to start farming with his wife in 1961.  He thoroughly enjoyed farming and farmed until retiring in 2018.

Through the years, David also enjoyed visiting with friends and family, square dancing, bowling, playing euchre in many card clubs and traveling.  Some of his favorite trips were to Bolivia, Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Alaska.  David was a loving husband, father, and grandfather, cherishing his time spent with family and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all who ever knew him.

He was a member of Holy Family Parish in Peosta.

He is survived by his wife Rita of 63 years; his children, Roger (Tammy) Hunt of Des Moines, Shirley Hunt of Dubuque, Lloyd Hunt of New York, Don (Laura) Hunt of Derby and Lois (Rich) Holmes of Grinnell.  He is also survived by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, Samantha of Chariton, Courtney of Iowa Falls, Jamie of Dubuque, Payton of New York, Christine (Adam) and Greta and Cora of Wauwatosa, WI, Cindy of Des Moines, Kenneth and Evelyn of Des Moines; his siblings and in-laws, Lavonne Callahan of Cascade, Norb (Josephine) Hunt of Monticello, Ralph (Gertie) Hunt of Cascade, Rachel (Donald) Budden of Petersburg; three sisters-in-laws, Carlyn Hunt of Edgewood, Kathleen Hunt of Hopkinton, and Geraldine Ernzen of Marion; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by an infant daughter, Gloria; his parents; his siblings, Clyde (Dorothy) Hunt, Bob Hunt, Virgil Hunt, Isabelle (Paul) Takes, Louis Callahan, Russell Hunt; and his in-laws, Carl Quint, Clarence Schemmel, Clarence and Clara Ernzen and Gerald Ernzen.

An Online video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Memorials may be sent to the funeral home, Attn: David Hunt family.

Marc S. Schmitt

Marc Steven Schmitt, 64, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2025 after a long battle with Frontotemporal Degeneration.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m., Monday, January 27, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. 

Memorial Services will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. 

Click here to view the livestream of the funeral service: https://vimeo.com/event/4870222 

A graveside burial service will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery immediately after the Memorial Service.

Marc, was born on July 16, 1960, to George and Rose (Manders) Schmitt. 

He was united in marriage to Deanne “Dee” Stasney on September 15, 2007.

Marc was a caring and generous man whose greatest joy was spending time with his family. He was a very loving and caring husband to his wife, Dee. He and his son, Joe, shared a special bond. Marc was a fun and loving grandpa (Pop-Pop). 

After graduating from Wahlert High School, Marc went on the road to work for his brother Gary Schmitt who owned and operated a construction company. Marc  ultimately landed in Phoenix, AZ. He truly loved living in Arizona. Being the outdoor enthusiast that he was, it allowed him to explore and have many outdoor adventures over the span of 35 years. Marc proudly owned and operated Integrity Roofing, Inc. for 27 years until retiring in 2020. 

Marc was a skilled craftsman who could fix and build anything. He took great pride in any work that he performed. He loved outdoor sports and any outdoor activity, especially those spent with family and friends. He had a special love for off-roading. Any trail he could find to ride, he was happy. He also enjoyed collecting sports memorabilia, coins, and vintage gas and oil signs. He had a keen eye for finding “the good stuff.”

Marc is survived by his wife, Dee Schmitt; son, Joseph (Kelly) Schmitt of Surprise, AZ; stepson, Christopher (Jessie) Stasney of Stuart, FL; grandchildren, Aria, Owen, Saydee, Mila, Milo, and Kaia. He is also survived by siblings, Richard Schmitt of Dubuque, Kathy (Gary) Sisler of Stanton, MI., and June (Pat) Hancock of Dubuque. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Rose Schmitt; siblings, Gary Schmitt, Jayne Reynolds; and sisters-in-law, Judy Schmitt and Patricia Schmitt. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to AFTD by visiting www.theaftd.org or Stonehill Caregiver Resource Center by visiting https://www.stonehilldbq.com/donate/

Marc will be truly missed by all, especially his wife and family. 

Marc’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Stonehill Memory Care and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful and loving care during a difficult time with their beloved, Marc. Stonehill Memory Care and Hospice of Dubuque’s compassion and graciousness will forever be appreciated by his wife and family. 

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. 

Janet Porter

Janet Porter, 84, of Asbury, passed away at her home on January 21, 2025.

A visitation will be held on Monday January 27, 2025 from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dubuque. A funeral service will follow visitation at 12:00 p.m. at the church. Entombment will be in Linwood cemetery.

Janet was born on July 23, 1940, the daughter of Alvin and Marjorie (Nesler) Frick in Baltimore, Maryland.

She married the love of her life, William Harry Porter on December 19^th, 1959 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Dubuque. Together they have three children, Steven, Sue, and Douglas and they shared 65 wonderful years of love and adventure.

Janet loved Jesus with her whole heart and loved her family fully and unconditionally. She took pride in raising her children to know Christ. She loved working with her hands and was a very artistic person. She had many hobbies including quilting, sewing, stamping and gardening. She loved to cook homemade meals including our family favorite pizza and chocolate chip cookies.

She was actively involved with her PEO chapter, and very involved at Westminster taking on the roles of Deacon and Elder.

After Bill’s retirement from John Deere, they moved to Lake Namakagon, in the north woods of Wisconsin. She enjoyed boat rides, hiking and many fun summers with kids and Grandkids.

Janet is survived by her husband, William, three children, Steven (Lynne) Porter of Richardson TX., Sue Taylor of Wausau, WI, and Douglas (Jackie) Porter of Phoenix, AZ.; six grandchildren, Andrew (Amber) Porter, Ryan Porter, Melissa Taylor, Zachary Porter, Lucas Porter, Talon Porter, and Angelica Pinlac; two great grandchildren, Becca and Grayson Porter; Her sister, Jackie Stutz; In-laws, Paul (Carole) Porter; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and In-laws John “Jack” (Gladys) Porter, and Jim Stutz.

In lieu of flowers, a Janet Porter memorial fund has been established.

James M. Splinter

James M. Splinter, age 62, of Mound, Minnesota, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away January 22, 2025, after a courageous five-year battle with brain cancer.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday January 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a sharing time to be held at 6:30 p.m.

Jim was born on February 26, 1962, in Sageville, Iowa, Jim grew up learning the value of “work hard, play hard” with his many siblings and friends in the local gardens, farms and bars. He graduated Cum Laude from Loras College in Dubuque, IA, in 1984 with his bachelor’s degree in business. He also completed the University of Minnesota School of Management Executive Program in 2002. His prolific business career began at FDL Foods (Dubuque Packing Company) and culminated in 36 years at Hormel Foods. His strategic, visionary mindset created many unique branding and marketing innovation successes for the company. As his numerous mentees and collaborators can attest to, his love of sharing his knowledge and experience to help others grow was unparalleled. To those who know, continue to…“Please Handle.”

His profound spirit of giving back will live on in all those whose lives he touched. He supported many noble causes including the YMCA, Austin Community Rec Center, Hormel Institute, Project SPAMMY, University of St. Thomas, Dougherty Family College, United Way, and Mayo Clinic.

Jim’s greatest success by far was his family and life-long friendships. He loved spending time and making memories with them all on the lake, on the mountain, at MN Twins games, at IA Hawkeyes games, cheering on his 49ers, playing Euchre or just bullsh*tting and drinking a Busch Light. His singing and dance moves were legendary.

He was so incredibly proud of “his girls” – wife Vicki, daughters Averi and Haley, and granddaughters Arya and Baby Meschke. To express his pride and love to them and to his siblings, he wrote his memoir A Love Letter to My Family in 2022. He is so loved and already dearly missed. Let us not be sad his time with us is over, but instead happy it happened.

Survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Vicki (Habel) Splinter; daughters Averi (Kyle) Hoen and Haley (Tim) Meschke; granddaughters Arya Hoen and Baby Meschke; sister Renee (Mike) Meyer; brothers Tom (Janice) Splinter and John (Mary Jo) Splinter; brother-in-law Tony (Kerry) Habel; sister-in-law Kim Habel; stepmother Beth Splinter; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, godchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his loving parents Paul and Joyce (Kies) Splinter, brothers Ralph and Ted Splinter, stepfather Ken Splinter, in-laws Bill and Mary (Green) Habel, and sister-in-law Kelly (Habel) Trumm.

Special thanks to the many doctors and staff at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, for their unwavering dedication and support. If you are so moved, please consider donating in Jim’s name to ongoing cancer research. Until a cure is found, may we all continue fighting.

Delores T. Koppes

God looked around his garden and he found an empty place. He then looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face.  Delores T. Koppes, 87, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Thursday, January 23, 2025, at her son Dale’s home in Dyersville, surrounded by family.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Saturday morning from 9 – 10 a.m. at the funeral home prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 1, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Delores was born November 28, 1937, in Petersburg, Iowa, on the family farm, daughter of John and Geneiveve “Jenny” (Kramer) Putz.  Her parents wanted her to attend the country school on the four corners not far from home. Thanks to her grandpa, she attended the Catholic School in Petersburg. Her grandpa drove her to school every morning in a Model T. She graduated from the eighth grade and then worked on the family farm. On October 5, 1960, at the age of 22, she married Lawrence Koppes at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg and together had 6 children. They separated years later.

Delores was a stay at home mom until she started working in 1976. She started her career at Curran Hydraulics in Dyersville, Nobles in Farley, and Ertl Toy Company for 19 years in Dyersville, and Cascade Die Mold in Monticello for 11 years. She was 75 years young when she retired. Delores worked Third Shift and then came home to watch her granddaughters. Her pride was her home and her acre yard that she push-mowed as recent as two years ago. She loved the sunshine and warm weather. She also had a green thumb and loved to take care of her many house plants. She enjoyed quilting and canning her produce for several years as well. She loved to play cards and the many card games with her granddaughters. She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville.

Survivors include her children: Diane (Dan Recker) Koppes of Luxemburg, Dan Koppes of Cascade, Alan Koppes of Antioch, IL, Dale Koppes of Dyersville, Joyce (Allen) Polfer of Farley, Cathy Koppes of Dubuque, granddaughter: Nicole (Nick George) Polfer of Hiawatha, step-grandson, Allen (Amy) Polfer of Robins; step-great-grandchildren: Cora, Silas, Thomas; sisters: Doris (Henry) Kruse, Helen (Tom) Koopmann, Rita (Jim) Steffensmeier; brothers: Lawrence, Donald (Rosie) Putz; and a sister-in-law: Carol Putz.

She was preceded in death by her parents, granddaughter, Kaitlyn Ann Polfer on April 13, 2015; and a brother, Joseph Putz.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Rita M. Hansen

Rita M. (Kirchberg) Hansen, 84, of Bellevue, passed on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.  Private family services and burial in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Phyllis M. Matthews

Phyllis Mary (Herrig) Matthews, 71, of Dubuque, Iowa joined her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ peacefully on Sunday, January 19th, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday January 26, 2025 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Phyllis’ twin brother George Herrig officiating.

Phyllis was born November 6th, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Mary (Heinz) & Leander Herrig, whom had nine children in total.

She attended the Visitation Catholic High School in Dubuque until they closed their doors, and graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. Immediately following high school, she attended Rock Island Nursing School and graduated with her Registered Nursing Degree in 1973.

She started out as an Operating Room Nurse at Mercy, and eventually her kind and gentle spirit led her to find her home in Pediatric Nursing. As her own family continued to grow, she decided to transition into her most fulfilling role in life: stay-at-home mother and wife.

Phyllis met Cary Matthews, the love of her life, in the early 70’s while hitchhiking. They were married March 3rd, 1974, and built a beautiful life together for over 50 years. Phyllis &  Cary have five children and four grandchildren.

The Matthews home was always filled with love, laughter, and was a safe haven and second home to many friends of the Matthews’ children. Phyllis had a gift for knowing  when others needed her and gave without measure in any way she could. Her home was  your home, her food was your food, and so on. She was a fierce prayer warrior who always  held a judgement free ear to listen and offer comfort.

While on her earthly journey, Phyllis struggled with Rheumatoid Arthritis for many  years. Her illness came with unimaginable pain and struggles, but she never complained.  She trusted God to heal her and lead her to the best care available. Through prayer and  faith, she found holistic medicine which played a huge role in her healing and pain  management journey combined with western medicine.

Surviving loved ones include her husband, Cary, children Zachary (Abby Kok),  Isaiah (Sara Fry-Matthews), Rebekah (Seth Walters), Ruth, and Aaron, four grandchildren Ezra, Rowa, Luna, and Juniper, siblings Ann (Dave) Greiling, Paul (Paula)  Herrig, George (Susan) Herrig, Thomas Herrig, Michele (Bud) Raynak, Mary Jean Herrig, and Carol (Dan) Waddick.

She was preceded in death by her parents Mary (Heinz) and Leander Herrig, brother John Lee Herrig, sister-in-law Dolly Wood-Herrig, father in-law Harry Matthews, his wife Joan  Matthews, mother-in-law Mary Lou Klaus, and her husband Joe Klaus, and brother-in-law Paul Dean.

The Matthews family would like to express their immense gratitude to the Nursing  Staff and Surgeons at Mercy, Dr. Sara Loetscher, Cindy and Marie of Kobush Chiropractic,  The Wittman and Breitbach families who all played a large roll in her health care journey  and end of life care. We would also like to thank the Herrig family and countless friends  who have come together to assist with all arrangements and care for Phyllis over the years.

Margaret Kieffer

Reunited and it feels so good!

Margaret “Maggie” Kieffer (Grimes), 97, of Dubuque, Iowa died peacefully at home on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025. She was finally able to rejoin her parents Leroy & Margaret Grimes (Genz), her sisters Virginia “Ginny” Grimes and Elizabeth (Mony) Vega, and her brothers Rev. Ray Grimes, Wally (Grace) Grimes, and Donald (Lu) Grimes.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday January 31, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, at the church, with Rev. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Maggie was born on October 14, 1927, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of LeRoy and Margaret (Genz) Grimes. She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy in 1946 and soon after started working for A.Y. McDonald Manufacturing where she remained for 50(!) years before retiring in 1996 to care for Ginny.

She leaves behind (for now) her son Raymond Kieffer, daughter-in-law Brenda Schilling, and many nieces and nephews. She has entrusted Ray to watch over her sketch books, Barbies of the World collection, Fun Machine organ. and multiple scrapbooks dedicated to film star Alice Faye. He promises to cherish them always, along with all the lessons, memories, stories, and unwavering love she passed on.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Maggie’s name.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelli, Nichole, Morgan and Laura, along with her longtime Doctor, Honorio Caceres. We’d also like to thank St. Joseph’s, Key West Parish, especially Cindy and Fr. Martin Obeng. We are forever grateful for all your help and support.

Goodnight Mom, I love you, and I’ll meet you and Ginny by the fountain at the designated time.

Virginia M. Juran

Virginia M. Juran, 87, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at Harmony in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross. Funeral Mass will commence at 2 p.m. with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will offiiate.

Virginia was born on April 20, 1937, daughter of Leonard and Frances (Hayes) Clemen. She graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1955. On August 27, 1957 she married William Juran at the Holy Cross Church. She was a member of Holy Cross Parish and a member of the Rosary Society. Virginia worked as a waitress for a few local restaurants and housekeeping at Mercy Hospital in Dyersville where she retired. She was a dedicated wife and mother. She enjoyed reading and going to flea markets.

Virginia is survived by three children, Deb (Dennis) Schmitt of Sherrill, Chris (Diane) Juran of Guttenberg, and Steve (Tammy) Juran of Asbury; seven grandchildren, Becky (Austin) Lawler, Rob (Katie) Schmitt, Justin (Stacy) Schmitt, Megan (Josh) Martin, Nick (Bre) Juran, Ben (Maddy Rooney) Juran, and Rachel Juran; eleven great-grandchildren, Cayden, Grace, Brody, Abby, Lucy, Allie, Jaelyn, Wyatt, Briggs, Mya, and Livia and one due in July; and three step-great-grandchildren: Cooper, Conner, and Carter; her siblings, Kathleen Trenkamp, Edward Clemen, MaDonna (John) Weimerskirch, and Roger (Janie) Clemen; and sisters-in-law, LaVonne Clemen and Mary Clemen.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, in 2016; her parents Leonard and Frances Clemen; brothers, Leon, Ambrose, and Cletus; brothers-in-law, Al Trenkamp and Lee Wedewer; and sisters-in-law Rosie Clemen and Grace Clemen.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

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Lester Jennings

L.A. (Lester) Jennings, 82, of rural Peosta, died Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at his home.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at First Baptist Church.

The Funeral Service for L.A. will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at First Baptist Church with Pastor Timothy Bees officiating. Interment will be in Fairview Cemetery, Farley, IA at a later date.

L.A. was born on May 10, 1942, in Maryville, MO, the son of Ambrose and Lucille (Evans) Jennings. On April 22, 1967, he married Barbara Barker in Dubuque. L.A. graduated from the University of Kansas with his Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. “Go Jayhawks!” He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works from 1965 until 2007.

L.A. was a very devoted and involved member of First Baptist Church in Dubuque. He enjoyed his hobby farm, and was proud of his registered black angus herd he raised. L.A. loved gardening and spending time with his family, especially his children and grandchildren. He was extremely proud of them and they brought him supreme enjoyment.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Jennings of Peosta; four children, Lon (Bridget) Jennings of Southlake, TX; Rebecca (Frank) Clements of Nicollet, MN; Elizabeth (Geoff) Johnson of Orono, MN; and Todd (Valerie) Jennings of Ramsey, MN; ten grandchildren, Luke (Larissa) Jennings, Marc (Jenny) Jennings, Jessica (Noah) Owens, Katherine Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Annemarie Johnson, Ashley Johnson, Hailey Rittenbach,  Carson Rittenbach, and Arin (Nathan) Lecnar; four great-grandchildren, Morgan Mettler, Paige (Garrett) Eilander, Gregorey Mettler, and Elena Jennings; two great-great-grandchildren, Elannah and Lena Eilander; one brother, Larry  (Barbara Jones) Jennings; one sister, Martha Litke; two brothers-in-law, James (Nancy) Barker and David Buss.

L.A. was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Garnet Jennings; brother-in-law, Robert Litke; and sister-in-law, Frances Buss.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to First Baptist Church or Hospice of Dubuque.

L.A.’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to Buffy of Hospice of Dubuque, their First Baptist Church family, and their other friends and neighbors.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

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

Richard W. Haigh

Richard “Dick” Wayne Haigh, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on January 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Monday January 27, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Sharing Time will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by Military Honors accorded by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Richard was born on September 23, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Fieldon & Dorothy (Hines) Haigh. Dick lived in an era of time where kids went out and played with the neighborhood kids and didn’t come home until the streetlights came on. Parents didn’t have to worry about their safety. What a wonderful childhood! Dick honorably served his country in the United States Army from February of 1966 to January of 1968. He was stationed overseas in Germany during this time. He married the love of his life, Patricia Kirsch, on December 28, 1968, in Dubuque. It was love at first sight, and it has been history ever since. Dick was a member of the Bowling League, and he enjoyed playing baseball.

Dick is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pat, daughter Debra (Robert) O’Connell, son Rich Haigh, grandson Logan O’Connell, and sister Joyce Morgan of Cedar Rapids.

He was preceded in death by his parents Fieldon and Dorothy, brothers Robert and Al Haigh, and sister Jean Wilke.

The family would like to thank Dr. Hermann & staff, Dr. Kelly & staff, and the staff of UnityPoint Finley Hospital’s 5th floor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their loving care for Dick.

Helen K. Keeney

Helen Kay Keeney, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Helen Kay Ewing was born on February 21, 1940 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Ivan and Verna (Jensen) Ewing.  She was a graduate of Elwood High School.  Her early life was marked by her marriage to James Keeney in May of 1962. Their union was blessed with three sons: Brian, Brent, and Brad, who brought immense joy to her life. Helen’s dedication to her family was evident in every aspect of her life, and she instilled in her children the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.

Helen’s professional life was as rich and varied as her personal interests. She began her career at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa before dedicating 40 years of service as the secretary and bookkeeper for Mitchell-Maskrey Feed, also in Maquoketa, where she is well-known to this day as “The Sucker Lady”, for giving out tootsie pops to every child that would come in. In addition to her primary job, Helen took on various side roles, including working as a waitress at several local establishments including Michel’s Truck Stop, Maquoketa Country Club, Noby’s Restaurant, and Jack-N-Jill Grocery Store, and running the concession stand at the Maquoketa Baseball City Park for over 25 years.

Her involvement in the community extended to her membership at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Helen loved spending time with her grandchildren, enjoyed doing word search puzzles, and despite her modesty, she was known to have a lucky streak at the casino, often winning, as it was well-known she never had much fondness for gambling!

Helen’s legacy is carried on by her three sons, Brian Keeney of Maquoketa, IA, Brent Keeney of Atlanta, GA, and Brad (April) Keeney of Bettendorf, IA; her longtime companion, Jim Ihrig of Baldwin, IA; her cherished grandchildren, Meagan (Chance) Garza, Amanda (Andy) Stefanik, Jeordon (Robert) Tempel, and Niklas Keeney; and her adored great-grandchildren, Wrangler, Rubi, Graham, Mia, and Jackson; her siblings, Jim (Pat) Peterman of Maquoketa, IA, Ruth Boock of Fulton, IL, Mary Van De Pol of Ankeny, IA, and Judy (Dave) Koon of Maquoketa, IA; in-laws, Nancee Peterman of Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Jean Ewing of Oxford Junction, IA, and Jerry Zybarth of DeWitt, IA. Helen’s life was also enriched by the presence of many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her daughter-in-law Pam Keeney, her brothers Paul Peterman, Raymond Ewing, Larry Ewing, and her sister Veronica Zybarth.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Helen’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.  A gathering of family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation has taken place.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Helen Kay Keeney memorial fund has been established.

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

Wylie K. Bledsoe

Wylie K. Bledsoe, age 81, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on January 19, 2025, at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque surrounded by his loving family.  To honor and celebrate Wylie’s life, a reception will be held from 1:00-3:00 p.m., on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, 3800 Arboretum Drive in Dubuque.  There will also be a memorial service held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Faith Lutheran Church, 55 Prairie Road, Fond du Lac, WI, with Pastor David Haugly officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in the common areas for lunch and celebration of Wylie’s life from 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.  Burial will be in the St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Newburg, WI, at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Wylie’s family.

Wylie was born on October 14, 1943, in Mena, AK, a son to William Burl and Nellie Lee (McCravens) Bledsoe.  He was a kind and genuine man who loved his family and valued his friends.  He was united in marriage to his first wife, Phyllis J. Noster, and the two were blessed with many wonderful years together and four children of their own to love and nurture until she was sadly called home ahead of him in 1997.  Thankfully, Wylie found love again and was joined in marriage to Martha “Jean” Laubach.  They were truly grateful to spend the last 23 years together facing the world hand in hand and enjoying the benefits of their hard work and efforts while surrounding themselves with loved ones whenever possible.

Wylie possessed a strong work ethic and faithfully invested over 43 years with the Mercury Marine Company in Fond du Lac until he eventually retired in 2005.  He had begun in the earliest years of the company and made it to a supervisory position before he retired.  Wylie made sure to make the most of his free-time throughout his entire life and when he wasn’t focused on his family, a relaxing afternoon on the golf course was always a good option.  He also enjoyed deer hunting, boating, fishing, and watching Nascar and various sports.  Before retirement, truth be told, if the season was nice and the roads were ready, he and his best friend, Pete, would pack up their Goldwing’s and hit the open road for their next adventure.  It was no small accomplishment to have reached all 50 states over the years, but with smiles on their faces and unrelenting determination in their hearts, the task was earnestly completed and stored securely in their memory banks for the rest of their lives.

Wylie also found real joy volunteering with fellow members of the Dubuque Noon Lions Club and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.  He was honored to sit on the Board of Directors at the Arboretum and served as Vice President over the years.  Wylie spent countless hours at the Arboretum tending to the facilities and assisting in more ways than we could even begin to name.  He made many friends along the way, shared his tinkering skills more often than not, and absolutely found his second wind when this chapter opened in his later years.  It’s difficult to imagine moving forward without Wylie’s fun and loving spirit walking among us.  The world has sadly lost one of the good one’s today along with an excellent role model of how a loving husband, father and grandfather should operate in an almost effortless manner.  Thank you, Wylie, for all of the love, life and wisdom you have so generously shared throughout your 81 years among us and may the Lord now hold you safe in His loving and grace-filled arms until we all meet again.     

Those left to cherish the memory of Wylie include: his loving wife, Martha “Jean” Bledsoe, Dubuque, IA; his adored children, Sam (Rosy) Bledsoe, Fond du Lac, WI, Nelda (Stan) Bartlett, Glenbeulah, WI, Joel Bledsoe, Sun Prairie, WI, Cory Bledsoe, North Fond du Lac, WI, and Andrew (Amy) Lubben, Fond du Lac, WI; his grandchildren, Joshua (Hope) Bledsoe, Stephanie Bledsoe, Samuel (Ivy) Bledsoe, Kassandra Nitschke, Phillip Bledsoe, Lucy Bledsoe, Lincoln Bledsoe, Kaitlyn Rost, Anna Bledsoe, Jenna (Damien) Bledsoe, and Maxwell Lubben; his seven great-grandchildren; his siblings, Linda Miller, Wiggins, CO, and Chuck (Linda) Bledsoe, West Bend, WI; his sisters-in-law, Mary (Wayne) Skartvedt, Redcliffe, IA, and Sue (Mike) VanMaaren, Ames, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Wylie was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Phyllis J. Bledsoe; his siblings, Ruby Lee Arendt, Jewel Flores, Brenda Barnekow, James Bledsoe, Willie Bledsoe, Billie Jean McGinnis; his sister-in-law, Sandra Anzia; and his brother-in-law, Bruce Laubach. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wylie’s name to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, or the Dubuque Noon Lions Club.

Wylie’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital and Ennoble Manor in Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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