Obituaries Archive

Christopher J. Young

Christopher John Young (Chris), 53, of Lone Tree, Colorado, formerly of Dubuque, passed away at Sky Ridge Medical Center surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, March 10.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 28th at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a wake service at 6:30 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, March 29th at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Chris was born on July 19, 1965 in Dubuque, son of John and Janet (Hendricks) Young. He loved roaming the hills behind his house, fishing in the Mississippi River, playing golf, softball, baseball, sledding, and skiing on Snowmad Hill. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School where he was an outstanding wrestler and participated in the State Wrestling tournament. Later he moved to Colorado where he continued his love of the outdoors. Throughout his life he was a devoted Green Bay Packer fan but after living in Colorado he cheered for both the Packers and Denver Broncos. Chris and his friend Jeff Lukens worked together on opening a painting company, Tri-Plex Painting, where he worked for 23 years.

Chris loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, his extended family and many friends. He was a kind, loving and gentle man who always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye. Chris recovered from cancer five years ago but continued to battle numerous health issues with a determined spirit and an upbeat attitude.

Chris is survived by his parents; two daughters, Chelsea Young and Olivia (Cameron) Moss, both of Lone Tree, Colorado; two grandchildren Taelynn and Corbin; a step-daughter, Kearah Williams, Lone Tree, Colorado; three step-grandchildren, Keagan, Tavin and Jaxen. He is also survived by a brother, Kevin Young (fiance Laura Gassman), Dubuque; and a twin sister Kerry (Scott) Douglas, Dubuque; a nephew, Seth Godwin; and a niece, Maranda (Emily) Peterson; seven aunts, Sharon (Bob) Cate, Sheila (John) Walsh, Mary Jo (Jerry) Klinkhammer, Pat Link, Susan Young (Randy Theobald), Karen Scheckel and Valeria Roll; two uncles, Bob (Kathy) Hendricks and Jim Young; two godchildren, Maranda Peterson and Peyton Lukens.

Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents, William and Doloras (Crimmins) Hendricks and Roy and Thelma (Rank) Young; four uncles, Donald Hendricks, Terry Hendricks, Dale Mahoney, Leo Link; one aunt, Linda Young; three cousins, David Hendricks, Danielle Cate and Anna Weitz.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Anna Weitz Foundation or Dubuque Rescue Mission.

A Celebration of Life in honor of Chris was held on March 16th in Colorado.

Eva Merfeld

Eva Merfeld, 69, of East Dubuque, IL passed away on Tuesday, March 26, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dean Smith officiating. Visitation will be from 4 – 7 p.m. on Friday, March 29, 2019 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL. Private family visitation only will be Saturday morning at the funeral home.

Eva was born on May 13, 1949 in Nogales, AZ, the daughter of Ricardo and Carmen (Mendivi) Espiriti. She married Raymond L. Merfeld on March 2, 1968, at Sacred Heart Church, Nogales, AZ.

Eva was a learner at heart. She attended and graduated from Capri Cosmetology and she took art classes at Clarke College in Dubuque, IA.

Eva sought out opportunities to teach others. After graduating Capri she returned there as an instructor, she volunteered for the Girl Scouts and worked as the salon manager at JCPenney. More recently, Eva taught several painting classes at the Creative Adventure Lab in Dubuque.

Eva was an exceptionally talented artist. She excelled in several creative disciplines, including painting, life drawing, interior design, and pottery. She shared these passions with her friends and family which was her gift to the world.

As a wife, mother and grandmother, Eva was loved by her family who regarded her as a joyful matriarch. After raising three sons, Eva continued as constant support to her grandchildren and their families. As a sister and daughter, Eva offered herself, home and love to her family. She remained connected to her family with regular visits to Nogales. Her family was one of her great life passions and her source of joy.

Most of all Eva was a lover of life. She was known for her bright smile and endless generosity. She made the lives she touched better with her spirit and grace. She impacted so many lives and each one made brighter because they knew her.

Eva is survived by her husband of 51 years, Raymond L. Merfeld of East Dubuque, IL, her three sons, Richard L. (JoAnn) Merfeld of Tucson, AZ, Robert R. Merfeld of Phoenix, AZ, and Daniel P. Merfeld (Elizabeth) of Madison, WI, her four grandchildren, Taylor J. Merfeld, Lauryn M. Merfeld, and Jenna L. Merfeld and Berkley A. Welsh; four great-grandchildren, Raymond M. Merfeld, Dawn M. Merfeld, Mary L. Merfeld and Lily E. Merfeld; her mother, Carmen Espiriti of Nogales, AZ; her brothers, Ricardo (Debbie) Espiriti of Tucson, AZ, and Hector (Robin) Espiriti of Phoenix, AZ, and her sister, Alva Espiriti of Tucson, AZ, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ricardo M. Espiriti.

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

Jillene Marie (Caven) Streets

Jillene Marie (Caven) Streets, 71, of Maquoketa was called home on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at 6:30 a.m., following a courageous battle with cancer.

She was not ready to leave us, but her body gave her no choice. We find comfort in the strong faith she instilled in us, and the peace she knew awaited her in heaven. It was a blessing to have the assistance of Jackson County Hospice, to help us bring her home in her final days. In accordance to her wishes, Carson and Sons Funeral Home will handle cremation, and a private family memorial will take place at a later date.

Jillene was born on May 13th, 1947 in Clinton, Iowa to parents Sherman Eugene and Myrtle C. (Clark) Caven. She shared her birthday with an identical twin sister, Jacqueline. Growing up, the twins were a bit of a novelty as they were coined with the nickname, “Jack and Jill.” They were as identical as twins could be, and to this day, we struggle to tell the them apart in old pictures.
Jill grew up on a farm outside of Miles, Iowa and attended grade school in Miles. Her mother, Myrtle passed away when Jill was 9 years old. Her father Sherman later remarried, and Jill lovingly accepted his wife Helen into her life. When the family moved to a farm between Baldwin and Monmouth, Iowa, Jill continued her education in Maquoketa and graduated with the Maquoketa High School class of 1965. Over the years, Jill told many stories of her parents, her siblings and growing up on the farm. We wish now that we had listened more intently and burned them into our memory.

Jill married Charles Schilberg in January of 1973. To this union her daughters Alicia (Lece) and Jessica were born, and she officially became “mom”.

On April 26th, 1976 she married James H. Streets, Sr. in a private ceremony in Galena, IL. To this union, she expanded her exceptional role as “mom” to also become “ma”, to Jimmy, Kevin, Terri (Sissy) and Tammy Streets. Next month, Jim and Jill would’ve celebrated 43 years of marriage. Although they faced many challenges over the years, their love and dedication for one another created a rock-solid foundation that will live for generations in the family they built together.

Jim and Jill resided in Andrew, Iowa until they moved to Maquoketa in 1993. Jill loved her years living in Andrew and the lifelong friendships she made there. She attended Salem Lutheran Church and was a longtime member of the Andrew Petal Pals and Garden Club. She took pride in her enormous garden, her flower beds and her berry patches. She enjoyed gardening, canning and making crafts. Jill loved animals and she raised her family to love them as well. Pets were always family . . . Sidecar Sally, her schnauzer, even made long motorcycle trips with her in the sidecar. Over the years, she faithfully fed her birds and squirrels- knowing them so well by their distinguished markings and dispositions, that they each were each given a name. Recently, a friend gave her a rabbit for the yard which she named after her Daddy, Sherman Eugene.
For many years, Jill worked for a local doctor’s office. She later found her most rewarding work was done, as a personal in-home caregiver. She taught her children many things, but most notably- she taught them empathy, compassion and respect, by her example. She never met a stranger and she truly lived the words “thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself”. She was a beautiful person, with a heart of gold and the most loving intentions.

Jim and Jill enjoyed fishing together, camping, mushrooming, and riding motorcycle. They enjoyed several years of retirement, “wintering” in McAllen, Texas and they had a circle of friends, that circled the United States. We are so grateful for all the wonderful moments they shared, the memories they made and the friends they hold dear.

Jill is survived by her loving husband, James H. Streets; her children- Alicia (Lece) (Tom) Wagner, Jessica King, Terri (Sissy) Streets, Jimmy Streets, and Tammy Streets, her grandchildren- Alexandria, Kaitlyn (Octavio), Olivia, Sophia, Shayna (Nathan), Michael (Monica), Mitch, Marc (Jesse), Michelle (Jordan), Mel, Dustin and Crystal. Her love and legacy will also live on in her great-grandchildren. Her face always lit up upon the arrival of her “Grands”. They were her sunshine. Jill is survived by a sister – Sharon (Doug) Martensen; a brother-in-law, Sanford (Marilyn) Streets; and sisters-in-law, Mary Ann Weets, Heloise Caven, and Beth Caven; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents- Sherman, Myrtle and Helen Caven; mother and father-in-law, Grace and Posey Streets; brothers- Perry Caven and Gary Pat Caven; and her sisters- Vera Jean Everetts, Romaine (Laverne) Bartels, and Jacqueline Miller; and a brother-in-law, John Weets. She was also preceded in death by a son, Kevin.

Words could never express the gratitude and love in our hearts, for Sissy- who patiently, lovingly and unselfishly cared for Mom for the past year and a half. They had a bond that went beyond being mother and daughter. Sissy has been the rock of our family throughout this journey, and we would’ve been lost without her.

A few days ago, mom said “There, but for the grace of God, go I.” No other words could more adequately describe the life she lived and the legacy she leaves with us, on earth. We were blessed beyond measure by her love, her faith and her guidance. We will do our best to continue to live as she taught us and to honor her in everything we do.

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

MaryLou Burns Hinderman

MaryLou Burns Hinderman was granted her angel wings on March 26, 2019 at 12:15am. She lost her battle with pancreatic cancer.

Memorial Service will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery on Saturday, March 30, 2019 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a private graveside burial.

MaryLou was an inspiration to her family and friends; never once was she scared or negative about her diagnosis. She was truly a women of faith.

MaryLou and her husband, John J. Hinderman were longtime residents of Dubuque, Iowa. She was involved with her family and community, throughout her life.

She is survived by her daughter Diane Sawvel and her husband Jack Sawvel, her son Mark Hinderman and his wife Beverly Hinderman, her daughter-in-law Candy Hinderman, three granddaughters, Nicole Sawvel, Holly Fischer and her husband Brennan Fischer, Hannah Hinderman, two great grandchildren, Avery Pickel and Elliott Fischer, two sisters, Jeanne Needham and Ruth Schultea, two brothers, Don Burns and Ray Burns.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John J. Hinderman, her parents, Leo and Florence Burns, two sons, Greg J. Hinderman and Gary Hinderman, one sister, Dort Collins and one brother, Bill Burns.

The family would like to thank the staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center for the love and care they provided for MaryLou during her last days.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Edmund M. Green

Edmund M. “Ed” Green, 99, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Ed may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m. and a KC Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. Services for Edmund will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, March 30, 2019 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa with full Military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He was born May 18, 1919 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Anton and Veronica (Lukan) Green. He received his education in the rural Cascade and former St. Mary’s school. On May 8, 1952 he was united in marriage to Lucy Ramm at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. She preceded him in death on November 21, 1994.

He farmed in the rural Cascade area and drove a livestock truck until 1952 when he was employed by the US Postal Service, where he worked for 28 years until his retirement. Ed was a World War II Army Veteran, having served in the 473rd infantry.

He was a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528 for 64 years, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus-Council # 930, a member of the 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573, a lifetime member of the Cascade Sportsman’s Club and a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa. He was an avid fisherman, he loved to hunt, and he was a Chicago Cubs baseball fan.

He is survived by one sister, Dolores Fagan of Cascade, IA; two sisters-in-law, Janne Green of Cascade, IA and Ruth Green of Dubuque, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Urban, Larry, Mel and Herb Green; two sisters, Gertrude Hirtz and Erma Green in infancy and a sister-in-law, Catherine McNally.

Special thanks to Deb Rohr, the staff at Riverbend, and the team at MercyOne, Dubuque for their wonderful care.

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

Robert Harris

Robert “Bob” Harris, 66, of Dubuque passed away Sunday, March 24, 2019 at home.

Memorial visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, March 29, 2019 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Burial will be private.

Bob was a graduate of Western Dubuque High School in 1971. Bob was born September 18, 1952 in Dubuque, IA, son of Joe and Eleinor (Hartman) Harris. He married Diane Wolfe July 28, 1979 at Grandview Methodist Church, Dubuque.

Bob was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and fixing anything that was broken. Bob was an avid Harley motorcycle rider, taking many road trips on his bikes with Diane. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and telling them his favorite tomato joke.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Diane of almost 40 years; two children, Kristin Bainbridge and Joe Harris, all of Dubuque; his grandchildren, Isabella Bainbridge, Hendrix Harris and Zeppelin Harris; his special grandchildren, Ryann and Renae and their mother Brianna, all of Dubuque; a brother Lyle (Dianne) Harris, of Epworth; a sister, Mary Ann (Ted) Kalb, of Peosta; and siblings in law, Charles Wolfe, Jay Wolfe, and Gina (Randy) Gadient, all of Cascade, Jill S. (Jeff Petersen) Wolfe, of Colorado, Janell (Larry Capesius) Klostermann, of Bernard, Colleen (Tim) Crew, of West Branch, IA; and Joan (Duane) Feltes of North Liberty.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son Sam Harris in 2012; his parents in law, Cyril and Marilyn Wolfe; his brothers in law, James Wolfe and Will Klostermann and a sister in law, Anna Wolfe.

The family would like to thank everyone who supported Bob through his difficult journey with Parkinson’s. A Bob Harris Memorial Fund has been established.

The family requests no flowers

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

Virginia M. Eudaley

Virginia M. “Ginny” (Lang) Eudaley, age 89, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 3:13 a.m., on Monday, March 26, at her granddaughter’s home, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Ginny’s life, private family services were held. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Ginny was born on April 22, 1929, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Arnold and Anne (Welter) Lang.

Ginny was united in marriage to the love of her life, Billie Eudaley, on June 25, 1948, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. They were blessed with 2 children and 61 wonderful years together, before Billie was sadly called home ahead of her on June 20, 2010. Ginny was always a hard worker and would devote 21 years to Flexsteel as an inspector, until her well earned retirement in 1979. In their free time, Ginny and Billie loved to spend time outside, whether it be sitting around the campfire at Waupeton, or casting a line, each hoping to catch the biggest fish of the day. They were avid boaters and spent countless hours out on the river with the children, one of their favorite activities. Ginny was an outgoing woman who was lovingly known as the “Mayor of Milwaukee Street”, always willing to go the extra mile to help her neighbors. We are deeply saddened at losing our wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma and sister, but are extremely grateful for all of the memories we have to hold on to and cherish forever.

Those left to cherish Ginny’s memory include

her children,
Daryl (Teri) Eudaley, Peosta, IA
and Jill (Jim) Faulhaber, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Billie Lee Zenner,
Stacy (Clyde) Franzen,
Sarah Faulhaber,
Candace (Michael) Loebach,
Kristin (Cody) Weber,
Krystal Scholtes,
Maria (Sam) Weber
and Jacob Weber;

her great-grandchildren,
Kelly Martin, Abby Lane, Chloe James, DJ (Jessica), Kayla, Tanyor, Tayah, Anthony, Kailee (Brad), Chesnee (Paul), Kacee (Hunter), Laszol, Olana, John and Kensi;

her great great-grandchildren,
Jaxon, Skylar, Addison, Madison and Nicholas Clyde;

her brother,
Arnold “Skip” Lang, Dubuque, IA;

and her godson,
Steve Lang.

Ginny was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Billie Eudaley; and her sisters, Rachel Fullbright, Betty Birch, Darlene Wise, June Silverberg and Donna Bradley.

Ginny’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Ginny and her family.

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

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

Ronald George Pfeiler

Ronald George Pfeiler, 81, of Dubuque, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2019 at 5 PM.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 29, 2019 at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Andrew Marr officiating. Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. Friends may call from 1:00 to 9:00 p.m. Thursday, March 28 at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Road, where there will be a wake service at 12:30 P.M.

Ronald was born July 1, 1937, in Iowa and is the son of Leonard and Salome (Meyer) Pfeiler, the oldest of seven siblings. He was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School in 1955. He married M. Peggy Hielscher in September of 1958. They celebrated 60 years of marriage in 2018.

He retired from Amoco Oil Company at the age of 55 and enjoyed being retired immensely. He had a wonderful sense of humor and loved telling jokes. He could always be found helping someone, and would do anything for anyone. He was an avid Cubs fan all his life. He went hunting and fishing with his many friends and relatives, he loved to golf with his friend Kenny, as well as gardening, and cutting wood for the Balltown Lion’s Club as well as family and friends.

He is the beloved husband of M. Peggy Pfeiler; loving father of Stacy (Pat) Sweeney, Dubuque, IA, Collin “Slim” (Leslie) Pfeiler, Dubuque, IA, and Russ (Jane) Pfeiler of Sherrill, IA; grandfather of Jessica (Cory) Petitgout, Florida, Gabby and Marshall Pfeiler; step-grandfather of Amy (Dan) McGovern, Melissa (Todd) Krieger, and Justin (Shasta) Flynn. He is the step-great-grandfather of Kacey, Katelyn, Kael, Mason, Maxwell, Maggie, Griffin, and Lucee. Brother of Bob (Jan) Pfeiler, Dubuque, IA, Marlene (Jim) Robertson, Commanche, IA, Tom (Marlene) Pfeiler, Peosta, IA, Renee (Chuck) Fletcher of San Antonio, TX, and Steve (Sandy) Pfeiler of Madison, WI; brother-in-law, Ed Richard of Oak Harbor, WA, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mr. Pfeiler was proceeded in death by his parents, his in-laws, Lawrence and Margaret Heilscher, his sister, Sandy Richard, and a grandson Thad Howes.

Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, The American Heart Association, or to the Balltown Lion’s Club.

Sister M Jeroma Day, BVM

Sister M Jeroma Day, BVM, 80, of 1130 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Friday, March 22, 2019, at Caritas Center.

Natural burial Rite of Commital was Monday, March 25, 2019, with burial in the Mount Carmel Cemetery. Memorial service will be Thursday, March 28, 2019 in the Marian Hall Chapel. Sharing of Memories will be at 10:15 a.m., followed immediately by a memorial Mass.

Sister Jeroma was a librarian and resource assistant at Clarke University, Dubuque, Iowa; and a pastoral minister at St. Mary, Guttenberg, Iowa. She also served as pastoral minister in Richland, Pleasant Plain and Chariton, Iowa; Hibbing and Winona, Minn.; Elroy, Wis.; Huntington, Tenn.; Rosedale, Miss.; and Casper and Douglas, Wyo. She ministered as an elementary teacher in Phoenix, Ariz., and Glendale, Calif., and as a media center coordinator in Chicago and Pine Ridge, S.D.

She was born on Oct. 12, 1938, in St. Paul, Minn., to John and Veronica Kennelly Day. She entered the BVM congregation Sept. 8, 1956, from St. Michael Parish, Lake Elmo, Minn. She professed first vows on Feb. 3, 1959, and final vows on July 16, 1964.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers John, Jerome, Robert and Bernard. She is survived by a sister Margaret Schmidt, Lake Elmo, Minn.; a brother Richard (Pam), Stillwater, Minn.; a sister-in-law Joan Day, St. Paul, Minn.; nieces and nephews; and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 62 years.

Memorials may be given to Sisters of Charity, BVM Support Fund, 1100 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, IA 52003 or online at https://www.bvmcong.org/support_donate.cfm.

Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home, 1640 Main St., Dubuque, Iowa 52001 is in charge of arrangements.

Joel Gorun

Joel Gorun, 77, died Sunday, March 24, 2019, at Unity Point Finley following a short illness. His heart could no longer contain all the love that flowed in and out. His family and special friends surrounded him with love, prayers, and music as he became a child of the universe.

Joel was born in Chicago on Thanksgiving, November 27, 1941, to John and Eleanor Gorun and named John Robert. He entered the Christian Brothers after high school and took the name Brother Joel. He carried the name with him after leaving the Brothers.

Joel was a life-long learner. His early education and all his higher education took place in Catholic institutions. He attained a BS in mathematics and a MA in religious education from St. Mary’s College, Winona, MN; an MA in religious studies from Manhattan College, New York City; and a Doctor of Ministry from St. Mary’s Seminary, Mundelein, IL. After retirement, Joel participated in classes on world decisions and cosmology at the Roberta Kuhn Center. His reading list was extensive and diverse.

On August 13, 1973, Joel married Marilyn Bowers, and they moved from teaching positions in Addison, IL, to Cedar Rapids, IA, where they taught together at LaSalle High School. Three years later, Joel took a position with the Dubuque Archdiocese Religious Education Office. During their ten years in Cedar Rapids, they welcomed into their family Sarah in 1974 and David in 1980. They also opened St. Francis Center to sell religious books and gifts, a labor of love.

In 1983, the family moved to Dubuque. By this time, the couple had written several religious education texts and teacher manuals. They were co-authors of New Creation, a Catholic sex education program. Other texts were written for the junior high and high school levels.

While living in Dubuque, Joel worked at the Archdiocesan Religious Education Office, Loras College, Wahlert High School, and NICC. He was also an adjunct professor for the LIMEX program at Loyola University in New Orleans. He initiated the LIMEX religious education/pastoral ministry masters program in the Dubuque Archdiocese.

Following family and passionate discussions, Joel’s great love was music, especially singing. Joel had a beautiful, clear, tenor voice that rang out with joy. Over the years, Joel belonged to church choirs, the Dubuque Chorale, Taize, and the Music Men. This past year, Joel initiated the formation of Healing Harmonies, a chorus for Alzheimer’s patients and their caretakers, which NISOM took on as their endeavor.

Joel is survived by his wife Marilyn, his children Sarah (Christopher) MacCallum and David (Anna), his grandchildren Christian, Andrew, Emma, Raven, and Orion; exchange students/ “children” Rocío, Heiko, Jamie, and Thomas; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law Ed Kuzas, Robert Bowers, Rita and Roger West, Ken and Diana Bowers, and Pat Moore; his Aunt Mel Smutney; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barbara Kuzas, and his mother-in-law Alice Barbera.

There will be visitation for Joel at St. Raphael Cathedral on Friday, March 29, beginning at 3:00 until a prayer service/sharing of memories at 7:00. The funeral Mass will be at the Cathedral on Saturday, March 30, at 10:30. Since Joel has sung with so many groups, anyone who is interested is invited to come to the Cathedral Center at 10:00 to practice and then to be a musical part of the magnificent, joyful celebration of Joel’s life. To all who knew him, Joel was known as a great hugger. Let’s follow his example as we gather to celebrate his beautiful life.

In lieu of flowers, Joel’s family asks that donations be made to the Dubuque Food Pantry, the Rescue Mission, Shalom Spirituality Center, NISOM (Healing Harmonies), and the Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Robert L. Stockham

Robert L. “Bob” Stockham, 96, of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away on Thursday morning March 21, 2019 at his home.

A remembrance reception for family and friends will be held from 4 to 7 P.M. on Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. A graveside service and burial with full military honors will be held at 10 A.M. Thursday, March 28, 2019, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Robert Lyall Stockham was born on January 11, 1923 in Maquoketa, Iowa to George Lyall “Punch” and Anna “Ruth ” (Peterson) Stockham. He was a 1941 graduate of Maquoketa High School where he played football, basketball and wrestled. He also enjoyed playing ice hockey on Horseshoe Pond in Maquoketa. In 1943 he entered the military where he served his country honorably in the U.S. Army Co C 4th Engr Combat Bn. He was wounded twice in action earning two Purple Hearts and numerous decorations and citations. After being discharged in 1945 he returned back to Maquoketa, Iowa to work for the family business founded in 1894 by his grandfather Lee; G. L. Stockham and Son Construction Company. He had been a part of the business in one capacity or another from 1945 to present.

On July 21, 1946 he married Miriam Jane “Mim” Jargo in Maquoketa. To this union two children were born; Lynne and Dave.

“Bob” was a member of the Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether, and a lifetime member of the Timber City American Legion Post #75. He was a 32nd deg Masonic Mason. He served on the Board of Directors of US Bank Maquoketa, IA. He was also a founding member of Maquoketa’s Timber City Development. He was an avid fan of the Chicago Blackhawks and both professional and college football. He also enjoyed playing golf and boating with his friends. Throughout the years he and Mim enjoyed camping and traveling via motor home across the United States.

Those left to honor his memory include his children, Lynne (Olin) Quissell and Dave Stockham all of Maquoketa. Three grandchildren; Thad Stockham, Maquoketa; Dr. Abigail Stockham (Brandon Jacobson) of LaCrosse, WI and Ashley Stockham of Seattle, WA. And nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Miriam “Mim” on July 10, 2012 and his sister Blanche Stockham Nanini Freytag.

Bob’s family extends heartfelt thank yous to his caregivers who became friends; Tiffany Scotton, Jaimaca Rayburn, Dale Felderman, Macie Mulvania, Paige and Missie Johnson and grandson Thad Stockham. Also to the family of Amy (Dave) Johnson Dec. 2018 friend, confidant and caregiver to both Bob and Mim since 2011.

In lieu of flowers, a Robert L. “Bob” Stockham memorial fund has been established or memorials may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Thomas F. Kennedy

Thomas F. Kennedy, 58, of Dyersville died Saturday, March 23, 2019, at home after a two year battle with brain cancer.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm Wednesday, March 27, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue from 9-10 am Thursday prior to funeral services.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 28, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Tom was born February 26, 1961, in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Vernon and Joan (Ruden) Kennedy. He graduated from Beckman High School with the class of 1979. He married Vicky Elsbury on August 22, 1987, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville. Together they farmed south of Dyersville and did custom chopping and bagging.

Tom enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, cruising in his classic car, playing softball and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. He was a member of the Dyersville Rural Fire Board.

Tom is survived by his wife, Vicky, 3 children: Mitchell (special friend Kylee Munson) Kennedy of Omaha, NE and Bradley (special friend Abigail Hedley) Kennedy of Dyersville & Danielle (Craig) Manternach of Cascade, his mother, Joan Kennedy of Dyersville, a sister-in-law, Kris Gibson (special friend Jeff) of South Amana, a brother-in-law, Doug (Deb) Elsbury of Mt. Vernon and 4 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Vernon in 2013, his parents-in-law, Leo and Janice (Vorwald) Elsbury.

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

John E. Spoden

John E. “Jack” Spoden, 93, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of Jack may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 27, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m. and the Farley American Legion services will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Thursday, March 28, 2019 at the Funeral Home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 28, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery with full military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion-Post #656.

Jack was born September 17, 1925 in Worthington, Iowa, son of John C. and Adeline (Lehnhoff) Spoden. He was a graduate of St. Paul’s High School and also attended Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. On June 10, 1952 he was united in marriage to Jane E. Losey at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa. She preceded him in death in June 28, 2001.

Jack was a United States Army Veteran having served in World War II. He worked at the Credit Rating Bureau of Dubuque, operated the Farley Bowling Alley and a butcher at Greenwood’s Grocery. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 25 years until his retirement 1984. Jack enjoyed hunting, fishing, baseball, softball, bowling and dancing.

He was a member of the St. Patrick’s Parish in Epworth, IA and served on the Parish Council. He was also a 60 year member of the Farley American Legion Post #656.

He is survived by five children, Joan (Wayne) Marxen of Epworth, IA, James Spoden of Cedar Rapids, IA, Joseph (Karen) Spoden of Robins, IA, Judy (Jerry) Connolly of Farley, IA, and Jerry (Margie) Spoden of Marion, IA; 8 grandchildren, Adam (Kristy) Marxen of Cedar Rapids, IA, Justin (Laura) Marxen of Hiawatha, IA, Rachel (Terry) Kramer of Bernard, IA, Angela (Dan) Meyers of Cedar Rapids, IA, Michelle (Will) Amerine, Jamie (Andy) Lollback both of Lakewood, CO, Amber (Lori McDermott) Connolly and Christopher Spoden both of Cedar Rapids, IA; 13 great grandchildren; sister, Jean Ann (John) Heiberger of Epworth, IA; and brother-in-law, Maurice Losey of Dubuque, IA.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; his wife; a brother, Karl (Florence) Spoden; a brother-in-law, Bill Beresford.

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

Mary K. Arens

Mary K. Arens, 91, of Dyersville passed away Saturday, March 23, 2019, at her home.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm Tuesday, March 26, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, where a parish vigil service will be held at 2 pm. Visitation will continue from 8:30 – 9:30 am Wednesday prior to funeral services.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, March 27, 2019, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Conway will officiate.

Mary was born September 29, 1927, in Petersburg, Iowa the daughter of William and Mary (Harter) Mormann. She married Richard J. “Dick” Arens on October 20, 1948, at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg. Together they farmed west of Dyersville.

Mary is survived by her children, Donna (John Shaw) Sutton-Shaw of Manchester, Tom Arens and Mary Jo (Steve) Friedmann, both of Dyersville, 12 grandchildren: Corey (Stefani) DeMoss, Brian (Jenny Hermsen) Arens, Holly (Jim) Doyle, Jordan Bildstein, Brady, McKenzie, Sydney, Kennedy and Trent Arens, Nicholas, Rachel and Tony Friedmann, and great-grandchildren, Emma and Dylan DeMoss, Jack, Owen and Willa Doyle and Oliver Bildstein, and a sister-in-law, Vera Mormann of Petersburg.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2005, a son, Rick Arens, a son-in-law, Gregg Sutton, siblings: Julitta (Harlan) Friedmann and William Mormann, a brother-in-law, Baby Boy Arens in infancy, and sisters-in-law, Rosa Langel, Molly Hahn, Agnes Weber, Stasia Bonert and Leona Demmer.

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

Michael R. Clancy

Michael R. Clancy, 63, of Epworth, Iowa passed away Friday, March 22, 2019 at his home in Epworth, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life and Private Burial for Michael will be held at a later date. The Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

He was born September 11, 1955 in Bremerhaven, Germany, son of Eugene and Amke (Kraeft) Clancy. He graduated in 1974 from Frankfurt American High School in Frankfurt, Germany. On June 28, 1980 he was united in marriage to Katherine Luensmann at St. Clement’s Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa. He worked at AY McDonald Mfg. as a machinist for 22 years until his retirement in September 2017.

He is survived by his wife, Katherine Clancy of Epworth, IA; three children, Sean Clancy (Special Friend Angie Vanderplas) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Brittany Clancy and Ryan Clancy (Special Friend Carrie Smith) both of Epworth, IA; his parents, Eugene and Amke Clancy of Epworth; one sister, Angela (Bill) Theisen of Epworth, IA; brothers-in-law, Richard (Cindy) Luensmann of Dubuque, IA, Michael Luensmann of Epworth, IA and Ken (Deb) Luensmann of Holy Cross, IA; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Monica Urbain on January 9, 2014.

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