Obituaries Archive

Sharon R. Kostuch

Sharon R. Kostuch, age 80, of Mineral Point, WI, completed her earthly journey on Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at home, surrounded by her loving family.

To honor Sharon, services will be held on March 9th, 2019, at 2:30 p.m. at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 403 High Street, Mineral Point, with Rev. Brian E. Backstrand officiating. To celebrate Sharon’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the church. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Sharon’s family.

Sharon was born on May 8, 1938, to Stanley and Lois (Reynolds) Holland. Sharon graduated from Mineral Point High School in 1956 and continued her education at U-W Platteville earning a Wisconsin State Teachers Certification. Sharon’s first teaching experience was in a one-room school house for several years until managing the Sears and Roebuck store in Darlington. Together with her husband Harold Johnson and several entrepreneurs, she ventured into renovating the Walker House in Mineral Point in the early 70’s. Sharon then went on to her final career working in various positions at Lands’ End. She committed over 37 years to the company until her retirement.

Sharon’s interests included reading, Taekwondo and traveling. Her greatest passion was caring for her beautiful flower gardens. Sharon was a faithful member of Trinity Episcopal Church.

Sharon is survived by,

her daughter,

Tara (Kent) Genthe;

her sister,

Claire Holland;

and devoted companion,

Ken Richard, all of Mineral Point.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and son, Mark Johnson.

We will miss Sharon more than she could ever know, but we are forever grateful for the positive lasting impression she has left on the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Sharon’s favorite organizations: The Mineral Point Historical Society or the Iowa County Humane Society.

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

Helen M. O’Neill-Friedler

Helen M. O’Neill-Friedler, 68, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Monday afternoon, February 25, 2019 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2019 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dean Smith officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation is from 9:00 – 10:45 a.m. on Friday at St. Mary’s Church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Helen was born on February 16, 1951 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Earl “Dede” O’Neill and Luella Banfield. She spent her early years in East Dubuque, where she graduated from St. Mary’s Grade School, and Wahlert High School, class of 1969. She later graduated from the University of Illinois-Chicago campus.

Helen lived and worked in Chicago, where she met her future husband Michael N. Friedler. They were united in marriage on February 14, 1978 in Las Vegas, Nevada. He preceded her in death on October 13, 2007.

Helen will be remembered as a loving and caring person, who will be dearly missed by her family.

Surviving are her two step-children, Lane and Lisa Friedler both of Atlanta, GA; siblings, Peggy Burds of McClain, VA, Eileen O’Neill of East Dubuque, Mary (Gary) Kupferschmidt, and Lois O’Neill both of Dubuque, and Michael (Cathy) O’Neill of East Dubuque; nieces and nephews; her aunts, Erma Schneider and Mary “Bebe” McWilliams and uncles, Louis and Ed Banfield.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl “Dede” and Luella, husband, Michael, a son, Francis at birth, two brothers, James and Thomas O’Neill, and brothers-in-law, David Burds and Jerry Stoeffler.

The O’Neill family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Hospice of Dubuque for the loving care and compassion shown to Helen.

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

Lois K. Scott

Lois K. Scott, 70, of Epworth, Iowa passed away Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at her home in Epworth, Iowa with family by her side, after a long battle with cancer.

Friends and relatives of Lois may call from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, March 9, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa. A Memorial Service for Lois will be held at 11:30 a.m., Saturday, March 9, 2019 at Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa with Pastor Stephanie Schlimm presiding.

She was born February 7, 1949 in Cascade, Iowa, daughter of Clarence “Shorty” and Hazel (Behrends) Breitbach. She graduated from Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa. On October 23, 1967 she was united in marriage to Rick C. Scott in Asbury, Iowa.

Lois enjoyed time with her family and friends, especially playing cards with her siblings. Her true passion was playing Bingo. She was also a huge Yankees and Cubs baseball fan. Lois worked as a CNA at Heritage Manor in Asbury, Iowa for 22 years.

She is survived by her husband, Rick Scott of Epworth, IA; two daughters, Dawn (Brad) Patterson of Asbury, IA, Valerie Lehmann of Epworth, IA; one son, David (Fiance, Julie) Scott of Dubuque, IA; 6 grandchildren, Beth (Chad) Harwick, Matt Brandenburg, Evan and Eli Scott, Devin Coyle and Ethan Yeager; 2 great grandchildren, Kylee and Carsyn Harwick; one brother, Gerald Breitbach of Cascade, IA; two sisters, Vickie (Stu Hetherington) Holub of Mesa, AZ and Sharon Meyer of East Dubuque, IL; two sisters-in-law, Tyris (Bob) Cummings of Basco, IL and Tonja (Tony) Inman of Kansas City, MO.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Shirley Keating; sister-in-law, Connie Breitbach; mother and father-in-law, Wayne “Rusty” and Jeanne Scott; two brothers-in-law, Ronald Scott and Raymond (Connie) Scott.

A huge thank you from the family goes out to Dr. Christine Holm and the Mercy Oncology Department. Also a special thank you to the staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Amy M. and Jennie.

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

Thomas L. Frey

Thomas Louis Frey, age 87 of Dubuque, was called home on February 23, 2019 at home, surrounded by his family. To celebrate Tom’s life, a private family service will be held in the spring of 2019. Burial will be at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born January 27, 1932 in Guttenberg Iowa, a son to Thomas and Elsie (Hosler) Frey. Tom graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1952 and went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Army during the Korean War. After completing his service, he went back to school at the University of Dubuque. Tom was eventually united in marriage to his beautiful bride, Marcella Linehan on May 2, 1964. They were blessed with 30 years together, and 4 children before she was sadly called home ahead of Tom on December 9,1994.

Tom spent the early years in his working career at two of the historic retail giants in town. He spent a few years at Roshek’s Department Store before moving forward as the manager at Stampfer’s Department Store for many years. Tom next ventured to Oskaloosa with his family, where he managed Snyder’s Department Store and The Sunflower before moving back to Dubuque, once again, as the manager of Stampfer’s Department Store until its final closing. Tom would complete his years in the working world as a manager at Theisen’s, working in sales at KDTH and finally retiring from USA Furniture in 2016.

Tom was the treasurer of the Senior High School Alumni Class of ’52. He always enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially during the summer when his family would gather from all around. Tom also enjoyed listening to music and an evening at the symphony was always on his to do list. Tom loved life and bringing joy to everyone he met through the art of laughter was a continual goal in his life. All who knew and loved Tom are both sad and grateful today for the abundance of wonderful memories he leaves behind, and the empty chair that now resides with his Tuesday morning breakfast group will forever resonate with the echo of the last genuine laugh Tom shared with his friends. Thank you, Tom, for the kind and compassionate spirit you possessed, and may you now rest from your labors until we meet again.

Those left to cherish Tom’s memory include,

his children,
Kathy (Kevin) Mauk, Des Moines, IA,
and Elaine Frey-Capacchione, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Emily Mauk,
Kaitlyn Mauk,
Eden Frey-Capacchione,
Erica Frey, Evan Frey,
Elizabeth Capacchione,
and Thomas Lee Frey;

his great-grandchildren,
Andrew, David III and Hallie;

his sister, Betty Lierer, Hamilton, Ohio;

and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marcella; his sons, Thomas Louis Frey Jr. and Thomas Richard Frey; a brother, George (Alma) Frey; two sisters, Jennie (Wayne) Donaldson and Virginia (Bob) Stebor; a brother-in-law, Carl Lierer; a son-in-law, Vincent Capacchione; and a grandson, Steven Rhomberg.

Tom’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their wonderful care and support during these very difficult days.

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

Richard A. Huber

Richard A. “Rich” Huber, age 85, of Dubuque, died Saturday, February 23, 2019 at ManorCare, surrounded by his loving family. According to his wishes there will be no services. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Richard’s family.

Rich was born on October 1, 1933 in Dubuque, a son to Ralph and Stella (Stecklein) Huber. Rich spent his early years learning the values of faith, family, friendship and fun. He was united in marriage to his soul-mate, Doris J. Guler on September 22, 1956. They were blessed with 62 wonderful years together, and a deeply loved son, Rick, who sadly passed away in 1999. Rich took his responsibility as husband, father and provider seriously and faithfully invested over 33 years of his time and talents at John Deere before retiring in 1992.

In his free-time, Rich was known to enjoy a little speed and excitement. Some of his favorite options included an afternoon on the motorcycle with Doris, a sunny day behind the boat on two skis, or an evening at the stock car races with Rick. Rich and his brother eventually built their own stock car which was assigned number 1/5 and is known to have raced it at least once (with little success) at the old Dubuque Speedway on Kerper Blvd. Rich also knew how to embrace serenity and an afternoon of hiking in Arizona could also bring him the same kind of satisfaction that an evening at the bowling alley with friends would. Speaking of bowling, Rich was an avid bowler, bowling in various Leagues in Dubuque for many years and earned numerous trophies, including ones for bowling 300 games.

Rich took great pride in knowing how to find balance between living, loving, working and playing. He was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and keenly held to the hope that soon the earth will return to the paradise that God has promised. He strived to make the world a better place by continually making a conscious effort to affect those around him in a positive manner. We will miss Rich dearly, and we are forever grateful for the 85 years he was with us. We know that he is sleeping and at peace now, awaiting the promised resurrection to perfect peace and happiness on earth. Thank you, Rich for the love, lessons and memories you leave behind; we will truly cherish them until we meet again!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Richard include,
his loving wife,
Doris Huber, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sister,
Maryelle Parades, Dubuque, IA,
Bob (Trish) Huber, Davenport, IA,
and Randy (Jane) Huber, Houston, TX,

his sisters-in-law,
Mary Huber, Houston, TX,
Margie Huber, Dubuque, IA,
Bernice Beresford, Dubuque, IA,
Lucille Kachevas, Rock Island, IL,
and Ruth Guler, Dubuque, IA;

his brother-in-law,
Wayne Freisinger, Phoenix, AZ;

along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Rick; his sister, Bonnie Dee; his brothers, Wayne Huber and Ronald Huber; his sister-in-law, Jeanette Freisinger; and his brothers-in-law, Donald Beresford, Peter Kachevas and Clarence Guler.

Richard’s family would like to thank all their loving family, friends and the nurses and staff at ManorCare for all of their care and support through this very difficult time, especially Joe, John, and Margie. We also would like to thank Jeanette of Hospice of Dubuque for her kindness, compassion, and concern for Richard during his last days and Diane and all the staff at ‘No Place Like Home’ who cared for Rich while at home. Finally, a very, very special thank you to Clem Pline, a long-time dear friend of Richard who so willing offered himself, not only to assist Rich in times of need, but also for providing a never-ending stream of humor to cheer his days.

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

Brian K Hall

Brian K Hall, 50, of Key West, IA passed away on February 23, 2019 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 1, 2019 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, February 28, 2019 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where there will be a parish wake service at 3:00 p.m.

Brian was born on May 17, 1968 in Dubuque, the son of Billie and Patricia (Moore) Hall. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. He married Maureen Sweeney on May 20, 1995 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works and was a member of the UAW Local 94.

Brian was an avid Green Bay Packer fan. He loved his family, his friends, and his cats Bill and Ted.

He is survived by his wife Maureen, son Brandon, daughters Taylor and Sydney, brother Rich (Dawn) Hall, mother-in-law Jane Sweeney, brothers and sisters-in law Matt Sweeney, Tim (Kathy) Sweeney, Jeremey “Moose” (Katie) Stuart, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Bridget and Debbie Hall, father-in-law Lloyd Sweeney, and close friends Joe Sullivan and Andy Grant.

In lieu of flowers a Brian K Hall Memorial fund has been established.

Betty A Hermsen Gassmann

Betty A. Hermsen Gassmann, 87 of Dyersville passed away Thursday, Feb. 21, 2019, at University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics in Iowa City, surrounded by her family.

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

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

Betty was born September 7, 1931, in Dyersville the daughter of Paul and Anna (Olberding) Burkle. She married Jerome “Jerry” Hermsen on November 21, 1950, in Dyersville. Together they farmed near Ryan for a few years and moved to Earlville where they continued farming. Jerry preceded her in death in 1978. She later married John Gassmann on December 26, 1980. He also preceded her in death in 1989. Betty moved to Dyersville in 1990. She volunteered for 10 years with Dyersville Progress, Inc., and worked for the Xavier School Lunch Program for 15 years. Betty thoroughly enjoyed playing cards, quilting and visiting with friends and family.

Survivors include her children: Karen (Ron) Manthey of Davenport, Steve (Barbara) Hermsen of Bennett, Kathy (Mark) Salow of Monticello, Wayne Hermsen of Olin, and Scott (Deanne) Hermsen of Dyersville; step children: Lori Kuehl of Manchester and Karla Gassmann of Dubuque; 25 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren; siblings: Harold (Gladys) Burkle, Gerald (Rose Ann) Burkle and Doris (Alvin) Hermsen, all of Dyersville; in-laws: Lorraine Burkle and Verna Mae Burkle, both of Dyersville, Rosemary Rahe of Hopkins, MN, Francis (Inez) Hermsen of Manchester, Dennis (Nancy) Hermsen of Farley and Theresa Hermsen of Dyersville, Betty Gotto of Bankston, Gladys Knepper of Dyersville, Mary (Jim) Schnier of Bellevue, Bob Fitzgerald of Dyersville, Lyle Gassmann and Margaret Gassmann, both of Dubuque, Beverly Gassmann of Opelousas, LA, Jerry Gassmann of Davenport; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her two husbands; siblings: Charles (Luetta) Burkle, Leon (Theresa) Burkle, Lorraine (Joe) Stephan, George (Thelma) Burkle, Bernard Burkle, Walter Burkle; in-laws: Elmer (Eileen) Hermsen, Clarence Hermsen, Tony Rahe, Charles and Theresa Hermsen in infancy, Paul Knepper, Sylvia Fitzgerald, Marvin (Patricia) Gassmann, William (Eileen) Besler, Sylvester “Butch” Gotto, Connie (Merl) Lueck, LeRoy Gassmann, Robert Gassmann, Ken Gassmann; and several nephews.

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

John H. Gavin

John H. “Jack” Gavin, 90, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday afternoon, February 24, 2019, at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating “Jack’s” life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, March 1, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Thursday, February 28, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, and again after 10 A.M. Friday at the church. A 6:45 P.M. Rosary will be recited on Thursday at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, with military honors.

John Herman Gavin was born on May 4, 1928 in Cascade, Iowa, to Leo and Florabel (Klinkner) Gavin. He grew up and attended school in in the Temple Hill area prior to entering the military. He was a Korean War veteran of the U.S. Army earning an honorable discharge. He married Beatrice C. Bormann on May 30, 1964 in Springbrook, Iowa. Five children were born to this union, Marla, Susan, Robert, Joel and Jason.

Upon receiving his honorable discharge, “Jack” moved to Maquoketa where he worked as a short order cook at the Tango Supper Club in Maquoketa for a couple of years. He retired after a 30-year career with Rotman Motor Company in Maquoketa where he worked as an autobody repairman. In retirement, he worked for RonAnn’s Floral Shoppe in Maquoketa as a deliveryman.

“Jack” was a member of the Maquoketa American Legion Post #75, and the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. He was an avid Chicago Cubs and Maquoketa Cardinal fan, enjoyed visiting area casinos, latch hooking, and most importantly spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren’s activities.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Beatrice Gavin of Maquoketa, IA; his children, Marla (Daniel “Boone”) Naeve of Clinton, IA, Susan (Tim) Meier of Cuba City, WI, Bob (Jennifer) Gavin of Maquoketa, IA, Joel (and fiancé Renee) of West Burlington, IA, and Jason (Wendy) Gavin of North Liberty, IA; 9 grandchildren, Allyson Naeve, Isaac, Abe and Sami Meier, Liz and Zac Gavin, Jonathan and Joshua Gavin, and Corissa Gavin; a brother David (Lois) Gavin of Bernard, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Oscar, Justin and Thomas, and sisters LaVonne and Arlene.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a John H. “Jack” Gavin memorial fund has been established.

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

Steven Clark Swanson

Steven Clark Swanson, 46, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, died on Saturday, February 16, 2019, in Van Nuys, California.

He was born on January 27, 1973, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Clark and Candice (Short) Swanson. Steve grew up on Lake Delhi, Iowa, where he learned to swim and water ski. Later he attended Hempstead High School in Dubuque, Iowa.

Steve graduated from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and worked as a chef for many years at the Minneapolis Convention Center. He then moved to Van Nuys, California, to continue his work as a chef.

Steve enjoyed a close relationship with his nieces and nephews. He loved music and was a self-taught guitarist.

Survivors include his mother, Candice (Oscar) Holdridge of Manchester, Iowa; half-siblings, Doug (Barb) Krause of Waverly, Iowa, Jennifer (Brad) Heath of Cedar Falls, Iowa, Susan Hughes, Julie Cutts, and Michael Swanson; stepsisters, Joy (Jon) Maples of Earlville, Iowa, and Leanne (Jon) Holdridge of Platteville, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Clark Swanson; his grandparents, Ray and Lou Short and Doris Tobin; and an aunt, Christine Short.

Online condolences may be sent to
www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Private Family Services: Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Manchester, Iowa.

Private Inurnment at a Later Date: Center Grove Cemetery – Dubuque, Iowa

Kathrine Ione O’Meara

Kathrine Ione O’Meara, 84 of Dubuque passed away Saturday, February 23, 2019 at home with her family by her side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 28, 2019 at the Church of the Nativity with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where there will be a parish wake service at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will also be at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass on Thursday.

Kathrine was born on January 30, 1935 in Dubuque, the daughter of Charles and Mildred (Wade) Parkins. She married Donald “Ducky” O’Meara on October 30, 1954 at the Church of the Nativity. She started her working career at Interstate Power Co. and later worked for Bishops Buffet for 22 years.

Kathrine was all about her home and her family. She was “Mom” to many, and everyone was always welcome at her home. It did not matter if you needed a place to stay or a great home cooked meal you were always welcome especially at Christmas time.

She is survived by her husband Donald “Ducky” O’Meara, her two children Timothy (Janell) O’Meara and Tori O’Meara, and her two grandchildren Myranda and Shane O’Meara, along with nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Mary Jane Kubitz, and many O’Meara brothers and sisters-in-law.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or the Church of the Nativity.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and the Staff at University of Iowa hospitals and Clinics for all the great care they gave to Kathrine.

Gilbert J. Mescher

Gilbert J. Mescher, 98, of Farley, Iowa, passed away on Friday, February 22, 2019 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa surrounded by loved ones.

Friends and relatives of Gilbert may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, February 27, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a Parish Rosary will be held at 1:30 p.m., the Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 4:30 p.m. and the Farley American Legion services will be at 6:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9:00 a.m. Thursday at the funeral Home.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, February 28, 2019 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Assisting Deacon will be Dan O’Connell. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.

Gilbert was born November 27, 1920 in New Vienna, Iowa, son of Henry and Mathilda (Koopmann) Mescher. He received his education in the former St. Francis Xavier School in Dyersville, Iowa. He was a Veteran having served in the United States Army during World War II. Gilbert was united in marriage to Bernice White on February 12, 1946 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. She preceded him in death on January 8, 2019. Gilbert farmed for fifteen years and went on to work in the Western Dubuque Bus Garage as a Mechanic until his retirement in 1984.

Gilbert had a Passion for traveling and was an avid golfer and reader. He loved spending time with his family and truly enjoyed a good poker game, playing games with Bernice at night and splitting a cold beer.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa, the Knights of Columbus Council #2001 and the Farley American Legion Post #656.

Those left to cherish his memory are five children, Janet (Clifford) Splinter of East Dubuque, IL, Bonnie (Tom) Weidemann of Dubuque, IA, Doris (Marty) LaPage of East Dubuque, IL, Larry (Vickie) Mescher of Peosta, IA and Vicky (Ron) Neumann of Independence, IA; 20 grandchildren, Chris (Jamie) Splinter, Eric Splinter, Abbi (Brian) LaPage, Dan (fiance, Christina) Weidemann, Ginger (friend, Brian) Weidemann, Valli (fiance, Robert) Weidemann, Peggi (friend, Mitch) Weidemann, T.J. Weidemann, Marty J. (Amanda) LaPage, Brandon LaPage, Trevor (fiance, Sara) LaPage, Nick (Lisa) Mescher, Kelli (Ted) Bergfeld, Kari Mescher, Alexis Mescher, Landon (Rebecca) Klostermann, Logan (friend, Stephany) Klostermann, Emily (Todd) Ostwinkle, Lily Neumann, and Joseph Neumann; 16 great grandchildren and one on the way; four siblings, Armella Phillips of Fly Creek, NY, Alfred “Fritz” (Jeanette) Mescher and Dick (Jean) Mescher both of Dyersville, IA and Bob (Lou Ann) Mescher of Edgewood, IA.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; one great granddaughter, Hope LaPage; nine brothers and sisters, Marie (Clarence “Barney) Kramer, Harry (Marge) Mescher, CJ (Alvie) Mescher, Bill (Germaine) Mescher, Viola Mescher, Louie (Kay) Mescher, Alice (Syl) Althoff, Rosemary (LaVerne) Nelson and David (Janet) Mescher; two brothers-in-law, Hubert “Bud” Phillips and Ralph (Mildred) White.

The family would like to thank the Farley EMS, Mercy ER Physicians, Nurses and staff especially Nurse Trisha for their compassion and wonderful care they gave Gilbert and his family

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

Harlan J. Friedman

Harlan J. Friedman, 95 of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Thursday, February 21, 2019, at Hawkeye Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 3-7 p.m. Sunday, February 24, 2019, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Monday morning from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home where a Service of Remembrance will be held at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Luxemburg.

Harlan was born May 10, 1923 in Luxemburg, Iowa the son of Leo and Leona (Zewen) Friedman. He married Julitta Mormann on July 11, 1944 in Petersburg, Iowa. Harlan worked on the family farm for 10 years and later worked for John Deere for 26 years before retiring in 1985. He also considered it an honor to be Mayor of Luxemburg for 12 years and the city council for 2 years. Harlan enjoyed his retirement through travel, music, dancing and spending time with family. He especially liked his frequent visits with friends in his hometown. As well, his daily breakfast visits in Dubuque. Harlan was a proud father, grandpa, great grandpa and great-great grandpa.

Survivors include:

12 children: Carole Lamphier of Cedar Rapids, Joyce (Joe) Vavra of Ely, IA, Diane (Dave) Bradley of Cedar Rapids, Linda (Ike) LaSoya of Dubuque, Mary (Vern) Kleinschrodt of Farley, Gary (Kathy) Friedman of Colleyville, TX, Ron (Jan) Friedman of Dyersville, Sharon Summers of Campbell, CA, Dennis (Ellen) Friedman of Eagan, MN, Laurie (Guy) Knepper of Williamsburg, IA, Jan (Doug) Boone of Manchester, Paul (Traci) Friedman of Polk City, IA,

28 grandchildren:Christopher Hoeger, Jeff Hoeger, Dawn Uhl,Leslie Harris,Amy Miner, Ed Vavra, Terry Kleinschrodt, Steve Kleinschrodt, Ryan Friedman, Paige Hopkins, Kyle Friedman, Jenn Russell, Mike Friedman, Rick Friedman, Ben Friedman, Claire Friedman, Andrew Friedman, Nathan Knepper, Emily Nadermann, Melanie Kluever, Chantal Rozmus, Trevor Knepper, Garrett Knepper, Dani Boone, Dylan Boone, McKenzie Friedman, Isabelle Friedman, Chase Friedman,

43 great grandchildren: Kayla Hoeger, Heather Hoeger, Seth Hoeger, Kal Hoeger, Kody Hoeger, Shane Harris, Adian Harris, Gabrielle Armstrong, Sofia Miner, Dorien Miner, Joseph Vavra, Jakob Vavra, Tazlynn LaSoya, Deante’ Paris LaSoya, Dylan Reittinger, Keely Kleinschrodt, Kelsey Kleinschrodt, Samuel Friedman, William Friedman, Gabreil Friedman, Lillian Hopkins, Calvin Russell, Nolan Russell, Ethan Horne, Damijan Horne, Alanna Riley Friedman, Layla Anne Friedman, Josephine Friedman, Henry Friedman, Wesley Friedman, Emmett Friedman, Eleanora Friedman, Alec Knepper, Reece Knepper, Canton Nadermann, Vaughn Nadermann, Briggs Nadermann, Merrisin Nadermann, Maelynn Kluever, Ivery Kluever, Vivia Kluever, Wrenna Kluever, Cutler Kluever,

2 great-great grandchildren: Adalina Rae Kalpinski, Zelda Horne,

siblings: John (Carol) Friedman of Holy Cross, in-laws: Mary Arens of Dyersville, Vera Mormann of Petersburg and Phil Munsey of Punta Gorda, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Julitta, daughter, Ruth Munsey, son-in-law, Mike Lamphier, 4 grandchildren: Jamie Vavra, Tara Vavra, Shane Lamphier and Kory LaSoya, siblings: Jeanette (Clete) Gassmann, Emmett (Germaine) Friedman, Marie (Allie) Boeckenstedt, and in laws: Richard Arens and William Mormann.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at Hawkeye Care Center & Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care & support.

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

Phyllis Y. Simonin

Phyllis Y. Simonin, 81, of Cedar Rapids (formerly of Maquoketa) passed away on February 19, 2019 at the Cottage Grove Place in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Phyllis’ Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 23, 2019 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Saturday, February 23 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where a Catholic Daughters Rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Maquoketa. Lahey & Dawson Funeral Service is caring for Phyllis and her family at this time.

Phyllis Yvonne was born on September 23, 1937 in Louisa County, Iowa to Omer and Ruth (Schultz) Wheeler. She earned her high school diploma from Limestone High School. On August 25, 1956 she was united in marriage to Joseph T. Simonin in Litchfield, Illinois. She worked as the Jackson County Clerk for over 26 years. Phyllis is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa and All Saints Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids. Also, she was a member of the Catholic Daughter’s of America Court St Raphael #1156 and St. Anthony’s Mother Club.

Those left to cherish her memories are her three children; Margaret (Steve) Schmitz of Cedar Rapids, Thomas Simonin of Placerville, California, Edmund (Susan Keil) Simonin of Maquoketa, four grandchildren; Seth Simonin, Forest Simonin, Kimberly Laughridge, Carolyn Jennings and four great-grandchildren; Justin Simonin, Rylin Simonin, Jaxon Laughridge and Finley Laughridge.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband and a sister Patsy.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, All Saints Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids or the Ohnward Fine Arts Center in Maquoketa.

The family would like to thank the staff at Cottage Grove Place for their loving care of Phyllis, and thank the staff from Mercy Palliative Care and Mercy Hospice for all of their support.

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

Elwood J. Van Vleck

Elwood J. “Van” Van Vleck, 82, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, February 20, 2019, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by family.

Mass will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, February 26, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Rev. Steven Rosonke will officiate. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery, with Military Honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, February 25, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 2:30 p.m.

Elwood was born May 21, 1936 in Iowa City, the son of Earl B. and Delphine (Theisen) Van Vleck. He served his country with the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1964. Van married Elaine C. Jacobs on May 25, 1968 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church.

Van served as a police officer in East Dubuque for several years, during which time he was also known as “Big Al”. He then went to work for Dubuque Community School District as a custodian, eventually becoming a head custodian, and retiring after 29 years. Van was devoted to the Dubuque Community Schools, and loved being a part of the school community. He always made sure to take treats to the people he worked with at school. Van worked at several schools in the district, but especially loved Hoover and made sure to keep up with all the news, even after retirement. In 2002, he retired and became a paraprofessional/security for Hoover, where he was proud to work with his son, a teacher, and his grandson, a student. He retired from his paraprofessional duties in 2017.

Van could often be found driving his Monte Carlo around town, working on the house and yard, and train watching. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and will be sadly missed.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; his son, Steven (Pamela) Van Vleck of Dubuque; his grandson Evan Van Vleck of Dubuque; his sister Joyce Sanders of Dubuque; his in-laws, Joseph Behnke, Robert (Annamarie) Jacobs, Ruth Ann Yarborough, and Sharon Kay Jacobs; many nieces and nephews; family friend Sharon Heiderscheit; and his former police partner and special friend, John Tuckett.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Joy Behnke; his brother Charles Van Vleck; his in-laws Willard Sanders, and Joseph and Dale Jacobs; and his parents in law, Joseph and Leona Jacobs.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jessica and Amy.

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

Kathlene L. Hayes

Kathlene L. “Kathy” Hayes, 51, of Clinton, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Wednesday morning, February 20, 2019, at her home in Clinton.

A celebration of Kathlene’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, March 2, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, March 1, 2019, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation has taken place, and a private burial will be held at a later date at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Kathlene Lyn Hayes was born on October 14, 1967 in San Diego, California, to David and Darlene (Brady) Hayes. She attended Maquoketa schools and graduated in 1989. In 1990, she moved to Waiver Home in DeWitt and worked at Skyline Sheltered Workshop in Clinton, Iowa. She retired in 2014 and has attended Skyline Day Hab Services since that time.

Kathy kept busy with many activities including Special Olympics, “Truth Singers”, Summer Camp, Able Trek Tours, PEP programs and lots of parties and dances. She enjoyed visiting her dogs on the farm, holidays, her birthday, music and dancing, potato chips and pop. She loved spending time with her family, especially her nieces and nephews.

Kathy is survived by her parents, David and Darlene Hayes of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Andrea and her husband Tim Sheridan and their son Jack of Wausau, WI, Eric and his wife Bridgette Hayes and their children Christophe and Henrik of Kenilworth, IL, and Matt and his wife Alicia Hayes and their children Emma and Claire of Cedar Rapids, IA; and aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents Marvin and Helen Brady, paternal grandparents Harold and Lola Hayes, and an infant sister.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Special Olympics of Iowa, or to Camp Albrecht Acres in Sherrill, Iowa.

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