Obituaries Archive

John C. Henry

John Charles “J.C.” Henry, age 46, Formerly of Dubuque Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Colorado, surrounded by family.

Born on June 23, 1979, J.C. will be remembered for his passion for sports, his vibrant personality, and the ways he connected with others throughout his life.

J.C. spent many years coaching baseball, where he found purpose in encouraging young athletes and sharing his love of the game. He also enjoyed following the Chicago Bears, playing basketball, and spending time on the golf course with friends. He worked as a painter and was a proud member of the Painters Union.

He is survived by his children, Alex, Bailey (Hannah) Andrue (Abi) and Dalton; his grandchildren, Henley and Rhett; his brother, Tyler; and his nephew, Liam. He was preceded in death by his mother, Donna, and his grandmother, Joanne.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a remembrance service at 6:45 p.m. A private family burial will follow at Ideal Cemetery in Fennimore, Wisconsin.

The family is grateful for the support of friends and loved ones during this time.

Rusty L. Lietz

Rusty L. Lietz, 71, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday morning, August 19, 2025, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, surrounded by his wife and sons.

Born on November 16, 1953, in Anamosa, Iowa, Rusty was the son of Dale and Lois (Leeper) Lietz. He grew up in a tight-knit community and attended Oxford Junction Schools, where he first discovered his love for music. Rusty’s life was enriched with love when he married his soulmate, Renne Shollenberger, on February 12, 1972, at the Delmar United Methodist Church. Their union was blessed with two sons, Jason and Jeff, who brought great joy to Rusty’s life.

Rusty’s professional journey began at JI Case in Bettendorf, where he dedicated 15 years of service. After the company’s closure, he worked at Community Care in Charlotte but found his true calling in radio broadcasting. His voice became a familiar and comforting presence to many as he worked at KHAK and later at KMAQ in Maquoketa, where he spent many happy years sharing his love for music and community news.

Rusty’s devotion to his faith was evident through his participation in the Delmar Methodist Church. His love for music was not just a hobby but a lifelong pursuit. He played in a band since high school and continued to share his musical gifts for over 50 years. Rusty’s talent and spirit brought life to countless weddings, dances, local venues, and intimate gatherings around campfires.

Above all, Rusty cherished the moments spent with his family. He was a beacon of support and pride for his grandchildren, never missing an opportunity to watch them play sports and celebrating their accomplishments. His legacy of love and encouragement will live on through his family.

Rusty is survived by his wife, Renne Lietz of Delmar, IA; his children, Jason (Stacey) Lietz of Solon, IA, and their daughters Bailey, Kassidy, and Kobi, as well as Jeff (Heather) Lietz of Colfax, IA, and their son Jacob (Allison) Lietz and their children Jensen and Avery. He also leaves behind his sister, Glenda (Mark) John of Cedar Rapids, IA. Rusty was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Susan Jacobsen.

A celebration of Rusty’s life will be held from 1 to 4 P.M., Saturday, August 23, 2025, at St. Patrick’s Grossman Hall, 309 Main Street, Delmar, Iowa 52037.  Come share laughs and good memories.  Wear your favorite sports gear if you choose.  Rusty has donated his body to Dementia Research at the University of Iowa Deeded Body Program.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rusty L. Lietz memorial fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

James Brock

Dr. James “Jamie” Brock, 79, of Dubuque, passed away due to complications of dementia at Grand Meadows in Asbury surrounded by family.

A Celebration of Life for Jamie will be held from 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM on Sunday, October 26, 2025 at the Dubuque Golf and Country Club.

Jamie was born on October 25th, 1945 to Edwin and Sue Simpson Brock on an Army base in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He was raised in West Des Moines, Iowa and graduated from Valley High School, where he met his future wife, Janice Waterbury. He attended Iowa State University, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. He graduated from the University of Iowa with a BS in General Science, where he also attended medical school and completed his residency in ophthalmology. During college, Jamie married his high school sweetheart, Janice, his wife of 59 years.

He practiced ophthalmology at Medical Associates Clinic in Dubuque, Iowa for 37 years. The hallmark of Jamie’s career were the genuine connections he made with patients, who felt that they knew him both as a doctor and as a friend. His lifelong friends, Tom Dvorak and Jane Hancock worked by his side, keeping him in line and on track for every day of his career while still allowing him his power naps.

Jamie was a true fan of all his children’s activities. He fostered a love of sport among his sons, whom he supported tirelessly, attending all of their events and recording every race and game with a 30 pound video camera on his shoulder. Though passionate about everything he did, he was also uniquely easygoing with a calm demeanor and kind voice. He was also a true sportsman, and he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and all outdoor pursuits. Jamie was a member of the Dubuque Shooting Society 990. Jamie also hosted many friends on several annual fishing trips in Canada since the early 1970’s.

He is survived by his wife, Janice; his children, Jeff (Heidi) Brock of Pewaukee, WI, Scott (Tara) Brock of Dubuque, daughter-in-law Sonya of Austin, TX, and Rob (Emily) Brock of West Des Moines, IA; nine grandchildren, Austyn, Beau, Mira, Beckett, Connell, Lena, Felicity, Baylee, and Kate; his sisters, Betty (Michael) Moore of East Lansing, MI and Nancy (Bernie) Wojcik of Omaha, NE; and sister-in-law, Sandy Brock of Atlanta, GA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law, Leona Waterbury, his son, Jay, and his brother, Bob.

The family wishes to thank the caring staff at Grand Meadows for their love and support.

Memorials have been established for the Gunflint Trail Volunteer Fire Department in Grand Marais, MN and the Dubuque Evening Lions Club.

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 Jamie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Mary B. Breiner

Mary B. (Mellor) Breiner, 66, of Dubuque, died on Monday, August 18, 2025 at Harmony Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 4:00 pm on Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 7:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be at 10:00 am on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born September 13, 1958, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Clarence and Blanche (Brandel) Haas. Mary was married to Michael Mellor in 1979, they later divorced. She later married Dan Breiner and he preceded her in death on February 16, 2023.

Mary graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1977. She worked at K-Mart in the pharmacy until they closed.

Mary was a lifetime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Her faith was of utmost importance to her and unselfishly dedicated most of her time in prayer for others as a member of Power of Prayer Adoration Chapel, Woman of Worth, and Seven Sisters. When she had the time, Mary also enjoyed a trip to the casino.

Survivors include her three children, Crystal (Eric) Patterson, Robert Mellor, and Joseph Mellor all of Dubuque; three step-children, Andrew (Jessica) Breiner of Worthington, IA, Don Breiner of Galena, IL, and Annie (Craig) Sheehy of Dubuque; eight grandchildren, Lucas, Dominic, Brianna, Tasha, Trenton, Tahila, Austin, and Joshua; two siblings, Diane (Karl) Blaser of Monticello, IL Gary (Carol) Haas of Hazel Green, WI; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by one grandson, Connor; and two siblings, John Haas and Linda Maas.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center, Harmony Dubuque, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their compassionate care.

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

Rosemary Faulhaber

Rosemary Faulhaber, 88, of Dubuque (formerly of DeSoto, IA), passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, August 18, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 8:30 am until 9:45 am Friday, August 22, 2025 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rosemary will be 10:00 am Friday, August 22, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Very Reverend Brian Dellaert, Rosemary’s grandson, as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rosemary was born on April 29, 1937, at home in Keota, Iowa, to Joseph and Eleanor (Pollmiller) Conrad. She married the love of her life, Richard Faulhaber, on November 22, 1956, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Keota – a romance that began with a blind date and blossomed into a devoted partnership and a growing family. He passed away on September 26, 2018.

After raising her children, Rosemary returned to the workforce, spending five years as an aide at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rockford, IL, followed by five years as a cashier at Ardan’s in Davenport. She later worked six years at Ben Franklin in Des Moines and another six years at Walgreens in the Hallmark Department.

A woman grounded in her Catholic faith, Rosemary was the proud mother of five children. She found joy in the simple beauties of life – tending to her flowers, watching birds, and cherishing time spent with her family.

Survivors include her five children, Debra (Gary) Dellaert of Dubuque, Mary (David) Coultas of Jacksonville, IL, Tom (Brenda) Faulhaber of LeClaire, IA, Christine O’Keefe of Andover, MN, and Robert (Jeanna) Faulhaber of Omaha, NE; 20 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren; her siblings, Herb Conrad, Merlin (Diane) Conrad, and Kathy (Mike) Heisdorffer; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her father- and mother-in-law, Thomas and Bernadine Faulhaber, one son-in-law, John O’Keefe, and a granddaughter, Bernadette Faulhaber, three brothers, Father Sylvester Conrad, Harold (Bette) Conrad, and Robert (Alice) Conrad, and one sister, Ruth (Marvin) Hammes.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring teams at Finley Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque especially her daughter, Mary Coultas for her support and compassion.

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 Rosemary’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Carol Potts

Carol “Kay”  Potts, 89, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, August 18, 2025, at Mercy Medical Center.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m.  to 10 a.m. on Friday, August 22, at Church of the Resurrection, where Mass will be held at 10:30, and will be live-streamed on the funeral home website.  Rev. Phil Gibbs will officiate. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Kay was born February 27, 1936 in Dubuque, the daughter of Anthony “Tony”  and Ruth (Vogel) Noel. She married Gerald “Jerry”  Potts on November 10, 1956 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on August 10, 2015.

Kay was a lifetime member of Resurrection parish, where she was also involved in Bible Study. She was also a member of the Red Hat Club, and enjoyed playing golf with her golf league, playing bridge with her card club, puzzles, bowling, and bingo. Kay had an infectious smile, and loved to laugh. Her grandkids were her greatest joy. She had a generous spirit, and was always there to help anyone in need.

Kay is survived by her children, Mike Potts, of Ashville, NC, Gary (Chris) Potts, of Raymore, MO, Kim (Keith) McCleod, of Hebron, MD, Kathy (Tom) Herrig, of Dubuque, Bob Potts, of Parker, CO, Tony (Tracy) Potts, of Asbury, and T.J. (Jenni) Potts, of Dubuque; 23 grandchildren; and 12 great grandchildren; and her siblings, Mary Ann Miller, Barbara Twomey, John Noel, and Hope Maus.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by two daughters, Michelle Potts and Mary Timmerman; her granddaughter, Niicole McGee; her brothers, Richard and Donald Noel; her sisters, Jean Hingtgen, Helen McLaughlin, and Jenny Landa.

Kay’s family would like to thank everyone at Oak Park Place, where she met many wonderful friends, and was the founder of the “Giggle Girls” group; and to the staff at Mercy Medical Center.

Dale J. Palm

Dale Joseph Palm, 86, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on August 17, 2025, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Wake Service will be held at 3:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 22, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. G. Robert Gross officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Dale was born on January 2, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Clifford Michael and Eleanor Susan (Apel) Palm. He attended Loras Academy in Dubuque before proudly serving his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1959, serving in Korea. On April 10, 1965, Dale was united in marriage to Jane Miller at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque. He went on to work for Midcontinent Bottlers (7UP) in Sales and Distribution.

Dale was a former member of the Eagles and Moose Clubs, a proud Harley Owners Group (HOG) member, and a parishioner of St. Columbkille’s. He had a passion for riding his Harley, cheering on the Green Bay Packers, and dancing. Dale never met a stranger. Once you met him, you became part of his family. Above all, he cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, who were the greatest joy of his life.

Dale is survived by his children, Donna (Ken Hess) Selle, Sandy (Jack) Eigenberger, Wayne (Cathy) Selle, Dale (Vicky) R. Palm, Sue (Mark Melssen) Kemp, and Wes (Erin) Palm; 17 grandchildren, Michael, Elisha, Aaron, Jeremy, Brian, April, Carissa, Tommy, Sara, Christin, Jamie, Chris, Shawn, Haley, Olivia, Aiden, and Declan; 31 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife Jane, and his brother, Ronald Palm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Dale’s memory to St. Columbkille’s or the Veteran’s Freedom Center.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble and Care Initiatives Hospice.

Maria J. Sutton

Maria J. Sutton, age 50, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, August 14, 2025. To celebrate Maria’s life, family and friends may visit from 10:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Funeral services will begin at 10:30 a.m., on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery.

Maria was born on December 25, 1974, in the Olongapo City, Philippines, the daughter of David and Excelsa “Elsa” (Pabila) Sutton.

Maria graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then attended NICC classes to learn phlebotomy.  At age 16, Maria taught swimming lessons at the YMCA.  After school, she went to work as a hostess at the Olive Garden, at Houlihan’s as a cook and as a lead instructor at Area Residential Care.  In her free time she enjoyed watching TV.  Maria’s favorite shows included Anime, NCIS, CSI and Bones.  She also enjoyed Japanese, Korean and Superhero movies.  She had a green thumb and liked to grow vegetables and flowers.  She especially loved her orchids.  She loved cooking and looked forward to creating tasty dishes in the kitchen for her family and friends.  Maria also liked going for walks down by the river and at the mall, where she was always on the lookout for a new pair of shoes.  Maria was a kind and loving person and we will miss her more than words can say.

Those left to cherish Maria’s memory include

her children,
LaTrease (Rameal Choice) Sutton-Smith, Dubuque, IA,
Ezikieal (Emily Marks) McCalip, Marion, IA
and Elijah McCalip, Dubuque, IA;

her parents,
David and Elsa Sutton, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Jay (Melissa) Sutton, Machesney Park, IL;

and a grandson on the way,
Elias McCalip.

Maria was preceded in death by her grandparents.

Maria’s family would like to thank Dr. Whalen, the staff of Tri-State Dialysis, and the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, for their outstanding care and compassion.

Cards and memorials in Maria’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Maria Sutton Family.

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

Darrel Rettig

Darrel Rettig, age (84), of Dallas, Texas and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025 at his home in Dallas surrounded by loved ones.

Darrel was born on May 25th, 1941 in Lansing, Michigan to Clarence and Martha Rettig.  He grew up in Ohio (Grelton and McClure) and graduated from McClure High School in 1959.  As a boy during summers, Darrel proved himself as an entrepreneur mowing 25 lawns, washing cars, bailing hay and irrigating carrots.

Darrel was a member of St Paul’s Lutheran Church of McClure, Ohio before later becoming a member of the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa.   In McClure, he attended confirmation class with his older brother because his mother thought it would be “a good learning experience.” And then again with his own confirmation class.  He enjoyed and participated in Luther League.  He was always expected to attend church on Sunday.

On Christmas Day, 1959, Darrel married his high school sweetheart Sharon Hoffman. Their love started at the school Christmas dance when Darrel asked Sharon to dance.  Darrel was 14 and Sharon was 15.  Darrel played varsity basketball as a freshman and was MVP both junior and senior years.  Darrel was the basketball player and Sharon the cheerleader.

After his high school class trip, Lowell Hoffman (who would become his father-in-law) asked Darrel to start the Maquoketa, Iowa location of Hoffman Eggs. During the next 44 years he served on the Maquoketa City council, Jackson County Hospital Foundation Board, and was the Maquoketa Country Club president.  Darrel also enjoyed coaching a boy’s little league team and his daughter’s softball team.

He and Sharon grew Hoffman Eggs in Maquoketa to be the leading processor of eggs in Iowa and other states east.  Darrel was a founder of Rembrandt Enterprises which became the 4th largest producer of eggs in the United States.

In Maquoketa, the Jaycees were an important part of his early career.  He served as President and in his tenure, the Jaycees started the Bellevue and Anamosa Reformatory chapters. He was elected the President of the Jaycees State Directors of Iowa, and he was Honored as an Outstanding Young Man in America in 1967.

Darrel was Patriotic with a passion for local, state and US politics.  At different events he saw George Romney, Barry Goldwater, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, John McCain, Barack Obama, George HW Bush, Bob and Elizabeth Dole and George W. Bush.  He was an avid reader of history and politics and collected a library of books and memorabilia that Sharon and his family will cherish.

He loved his wife deeply.  He taught, loved and bragged on his kids.  He was a cherished brother, a “hero” in fact to his brother Jerry.  And was a true friend to many.

Those left to honor Darrel’s memory are his loving wife of 65 years, Sharon of Dallas, TX, his son’s Dr. Jeffrey/Roxanne Rettig, of Groesbeck, TX and David/Jennifer Rettig of Champaign, IL., his daughter Susanne Rettig/Tracy Zaffino of Dallas, TX; his brother Jerry/Marge Rettig of Enola, PA; his grandchildren US Army Captain Ryan/Jasmine Rettig of Fort Meade, MD., Clayton/Kristin Rettig of Midland, TX, Austin/Leslie Rettig of Dallas, TX., Adrianne/Zach Ledford of Groesbeck, TX., Bogdan Rettig of Wisconsin Dells, WI., and Katya Rettig of Champaign IL., and 10 great grand-children: Jeffrey, Jackson, Jacquelyn Jace, Madeline, Everett, Liam, James, Thomas Rettig and Isaac Ledford.  Sister-in-law Cynthia Hoffman of Alpharetta, GA.  Nieces Kim Hamann, Becky Penrod, Tracy Maimone, Tina Roughton all of OH, Holly King of FL., Jill Rettig of PA, Lori Rettig of TX; last but not least, his goldendoodle Kash who misses him and who would jump up in the chair so Darrel could rub him from sitting in his motorized wheel chair.  Darrel was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Gladden “Skip” and Joyce Rettig, his nephew Jacob Rettig, his parents-in-law, and his brother-in-law Fred Hoffman, his foster sister-in-law Sherri Merz and niece Kelli Witten.

In lieu of expressions of sympathy the family kindly requests remembrances to Merit Hospice 8350 N. Central Expressway, Suite M1019, Dallas, TX 75206, First Lutheran Church of Maquoketa, IA 52060 or help to Military, Children or Seniors.

A celebration of Darrel’s life will be held on September 6 at 10:00 am at the First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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

Mark W. Klausner

Mark Walter Klausner, 76, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, August 8, 2025.

Born on May 12, 1949, in Chicago to Felix and Irene (Galin) Klausner, Mark graduated from Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights in 1967, where he excelled as a varsity football player and wrestler. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northern Illinois University in 1971 and an MBA from St. Ambrose University in 1998. On August 15, 1970, Mark married Kathleen Patricia Klausner (née Hunter) at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church in Markham, IL.

He grew up in Riverdale, IL, and later raised his family in Aurora, IL. Mark was an Eagle Scout and cherished time spent golfing, boating, woodworking, attending sporting events, and playing poker with his brothers, sons, and nephews. Mark and Kathy enjoyed traveling together, with cruising being his favorite way to see the world. A lifelong Chicago Cubs fan—despite growing up on the south side, Mark was thrilled to witness the Cubs winning the World Series. He was a dedicated and successful businessman, owning and operating several area businesses, most notably Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa in Galena.

Mark is survived by his beloved wife, Kathy; his six children: Mark Klausner, Amy (Damon) Sealock, Matthew Klausner, Beth (Brad) Elstad, Megan (Brandon) Weis, and Erin (Bear) Wegener; and ten grandchildren: Connor Solfisburg, Madison Weis, Cassidy Sealock, Austin Weis, Gavin Klausner, Ethan Sealock, Grant Klausner, Charlie Wegener, Keelin Wegener, and Delaney Elstad.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Paul Klausner.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena. Following the mass, a Celebration of Life will take place at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa (444 Eagle Ridge Drive, Galena, IL) until 3 PM, with a share time starting at 1:15 PM. The burial of his cremated remains will occur later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

Donations can be made to Hospice of Dubuque at https://hospiceofdubuque.org/donation

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

Donna M. Rockwell

Donna M. Rockwell, age 90, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.  To celebrate Donna’s life, family and friends may visit from 5:00 p.m. until 6:45 p.m., on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 7:00 p.m., on Friday at the funeral home.

Donna was born on September 14, 1934, in Dodgeville, WI, the daughter of Thomas and Eunice (Kittoe) Holt.

Donna was a hard worker who was employed in housekeeping at The Julien Hotel for 17 years, in the laundry at Finley Hospital for 8 years and also did in-home care for the elderly.  Donna’s family meant the world to her.  She often said she was very proud of raising a “good family”.  She truly loved spending time with her grandchildren.  Donna enjoyed going fishing and everything about the holidays, especially Christmas.  She was very creative.  The Christmas trees she made out of toothpicks were quite impressive.  Donna had a green thumb, growing beautiful flowers in her yard and home.  She also enjoyed collecting porcelain dolls.  Donna was a good woman and will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Donna’s memory include

her children,
Dave Lape, Dubuque, IA,
Nancy (Dave) Smalley, Anamosa, IA,
Earl Lape, Dubuque, IA
and Eunice (Rick) Hoftender, East Dubuque, IL;

6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; her 1st husband, Edmund Lape; her 2nd husband, Mark Rockwell; a son, Arthur Lape, and 7 siblings, Marvin Holt, Bob Kittoe, Ann Marie Murray, Amanda Rueter, Arthur Holt, Donald Holt and Eva Sue Ginter.

Donna’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque and UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital for their wonderful care.  Also a special thanks to her neighbors, Ron and Ann Shaal, for their help and support throughout the years.

Cards and memorials in Donna’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Donna Rockwell Family.

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

Darlene E. Oglesby

Darlene E. “Dar” Oglesby, age 89, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by love.  To celebrate Darlene’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at St. Patrick Church, 1425 Iowa Street.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, at St. Patrick Church, with Rev. Dennis J. Quint officiating.  Inurnment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Darlene’s family.

Born on December 9, 1935, in Dubuque to Catherine and Clarence Oglesby, Dar was the second of 13 children – a role that shaped her life in the most loving way.  She was a natural caregiver, helping to raise her younger brothers and sisters, and later becoming “Aunt Dar” to a whole generation of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.  Her love for family was endless and unconditional.

Dar had a joyful spirit and a playful heart.  She loved spending time with kids, playing board games, piecing together jigsaw puzzles, and testing her quick wit with Jeopardy.  Her evenings weren’t complete without her favorite show, Wheel of Fortune – often answering before the contestants did!  She was a lifelong Cubs fan and was fortunate to see them win a World Series!  She was also the family’s master baker, making sure everyone’s birthday was celebrated with their favorite homemade cake.

To know Dar was to know kindness, humor and warmth.  She was a steady presence in the lives of many, her absence will be deeply felt.

Those left to cherish Darlene’s memory include

her siblings,
Harold (Ann) Oglesby,
Margaret Oglesby
and Mary Oglesby, all of Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Carol Oglesby, Dubuque, IA,

a brother-in-law,
Bill Leytem, Dubuque, IA;

and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Gordon, Frank, Larry (Shirley), Bill, John, Robert and Richard; sisters, Marilyn Thomas and Patricia Arensdorf; nieces, Billy Jo Oglesby, Vickie Sauser, Jackie Fitzgibbons, Debbie Cashman, Kelly Kohl and nephew, Mike Oglesby.

Her family would like to thank the caring and devoted staff at Stonehill Health Center, especially Adrienne, for the love and compassion they showed Dar during her time there, as well as Hospice of Dubuque for ensuring her comfort in her final day.

Memorials made in Darlene’s memory will benefit the Michael W. Oglesby Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Health Center, and may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Darlene Oglesby Family.

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

Frances Jones

Frances Jones, 81, of Dubuque, passed away on August 16, 2025 at Stonehill Health Center.

A visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at Summit Congregational, United Church of Christ, 2885 JFK Rd. A Funeral service will be at 10:00am on Wednesday, August 20, 2025  also at Summit UCC,  where additional visitation will be from 9:00 am until time of service . Burial will follow service in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. A livestream of Fran’s funeral will be available at www.summitucc.org

Fran was born on September 30, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Frank and Beatrice (Lovadiro) Doeppke. She attended The Little Red School House in Allamakee county for 8 years. She went on to attend and graduate from Waukon High School.

She was united in marriage to Everett Jones on February 23rd, 1962. They shared 63 wonderful years together. From their union, they were blessed with four children, Darwin, Brenda, Scott, and Brian who passed away in infancy.

Fran worked with special needs students for many years in the Dubuque Community School District and at Area Residential Care. Later she worked in administration at Bethany Home, and Volunteered at Finley Hospital as a patient escort.

Fran was very involved in the church, being a member of many boards over the years, and involved in many activities, most importantly, Bible study.  She was also a member of the Dubuque Ecumenical Emmaus Community.

She loved gardening, crocheting pray shawls for the Prayer Shawl ministry group at Finley, and quilting. She had a passion for traveling. She and her sisters took many trips together, with Hawaii, Alaska, and Italy being some of note. She enjoyed antiquing, collecting many cherished items along the way. Mostly,  Fran was happiest while serving others, and spending time with her family.

Fran is survived by her Husband, Everett, her children Darwin (Janet) Jones, Brenda (Chuck) Petsch, and Scott Jones, Grandchildren Kelly Jones, Adam Jones, Beth (Michael Schlarmann, and William Petsch, Great Grandchildren, Makayla and Chloe Schlarmann, and Norah Jones, Sisters Carol Schaefer, and Pat James, and Sisters-in-law Lucille Dlouhy, Anaruth Dimmer, and Carol Bueger, and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded by her parents, a son Brian in infancy, Mother and Father -in-law Ruth and Leo Jones, In-laws Irvin Troendle, Al Schaefer, Leonard Dlouhy, Lyle Dimmer, Willi Buerger, Grace (Virgil) Groves, and Emmet (Bernadine) Jones.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Summit Congregational United Church of Christ, Hospice of Dubuque, or a charity of your choice.

Fran’s family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, Melanie, and Michele, Pastor Karen Candee, and the staff at Stonehill Health center for the loving care they provided to her.

Patricia A. Peterson

Patricia “Pat” Ann Peterson, 86, of Dubuque, died on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at her home in Dubuque surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:15 am on Monday, August 18, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Pat will be at 11:30 am on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Jim Schmidt officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Pat was born on December 24, 1938, in Fountain City, WI, the daughter of Fred A. and Margaret (Kramer) Ackerman. On May 12, 1960, she married Carl G. Peterson in Elgin, IL. He preceded her in death on August 12, 2011.

Pat worked at the Dubuque Packing Co., Metrix, and Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino. She also sold Avon for 50 years.

Pat was a long time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She was a gifted embroiderer and crocheter, known for the beautiful and intricate pieces she created with care. Pat was also an enthusiastic collector of all things Avon, finding joy in each new addition to her collection. Deeply interested in her family history, Pat spent much time exploring her ancestry. A true animal lover, she cared for many animals throughout her life. More than anything, Pat cherished time spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life and the highlight of her every day.

Survivors include four children, Charles Peterson of Bellevue, IA, Wendy (Kevin) Smith of Dubuque, Laurie (Jeff) Oberfoell of Sherrill, IA, and Joe (Deb) Busch of Dubuque; 20 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; one sister, Mary Paul of Bellevue, IA; one half-brother, John Hattula of Freeport, IL; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Patricia was preceded in death by one daughter, Darce Peterson; two sons, Francis Peterson and Carl Peterson Jr.; one sister, Sharon Myer; and half siblings, Joy, Charlie, Billy, and Bobbie Hattula.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Joe and Deb and her very good friend, Leslie Davis for coming to visit and care for mom. Also Thank You to Dr. Ries and the nurses and staff with Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

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

Eldon F. Koerperich

Eldon F. Koerperich, 81, of Farley, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Eldon will be held from 3 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the funeral home.

Services for Eldon will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 21, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Steven Garner presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Farey American Legion Post #656.

Eldon was born May 14, 1944 in Lattnerville, Iowa, son of Francis and Modesta (Freiburger) Koerperich.  He was a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa.  Eldon was a veteran having served in the Army National Guard.  On May 14, 2005, he was united in marriage to Susan Nelson.

He was employed at the John Deere Dubuque Works until his retirement.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, he was a member of the Army National Guard, the UAW local #94, the Farley American Legion and in his earlier years he was very active in the Cub Scouts.

He is survived by his wife, Susan Koerperich of Farley; two children, Doug (Barb) Koerperich of Epworth and Deb Schilling of Dyersville; one step-son, James (Denise) Kruser of Dubuque; 9 grandchildren, Lindsay (Tom) Harbaugh, Whitney Schilling (fiancé, Garrett Sporer), Olivia (Austin) Johnson, Paige (Nick) Winter, Collin (Leighton) Koerperich, Peyton Koerperich (fiancé, Brad Cunningham), Carson Koerperich, Leah Kruser and James Kruser; five great grandchildren, with one more on the way, Keenan and Kleo Koerperich, Eddison, Luella, and Noa Winter and Hudson Harbaugh; one sister-in-law, Ellen McDermott Koerperich of Placid and one brother-in-law, Paul Ernzen of Epworth.

He is preceded in death by his parents; two children, Brian Koerperich and Lora Koerperich; one brother, Ronnie Koerperich and one sister, Rosemary Ernzen; his father and mother-in-law, Roland and Margaret Nelson.

An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences may be left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc