Obituaries Archive

Donald J. Stecher

Donald J. Stecher, 80, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 15th, 2019 at Hawkeye Care Center surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, May 20th, 2019 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Tom McDermott officiating and brother Rev. John Stecher concelebrating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with full military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, May 19th, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service and rosary will be held at 2:00 p.m.

Don was born on June 9th, 1938 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of John and Servina (Pfohl) Stecher. He served in the United States Army as Sergeant First Class and was a member of the American Legion Post #6. He was active in the Army Reserves where he taught classes in terrain analysis.
Don worked for Dubuque Insulation and Siding Co. and was a lifelong farmer. He started at the age of seven helping on the family farm. Don loved what he did and worked until he was forced to retire due to illness at the age of 74.

Don married Marilyn Brune on October 14, 1978 at St. Joseph The Worker. They have five children and eleven grandchildren. Don’s grandchildren will miss Papa’s hugs when they come in the door and playing Old Maid with him. He loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn; three sons John (Lindsay) Stecher, of Jersey City, NJ, Jim (Beth) Stecher, of Dubuque, IA and Mike (Anna) Stecher, of Bettendorf, IA; two daughters Michelle (John) Hamilton, of Dubuque, IA, and Jenny Stecher, of Chicago, IL. Eleven grandchildren, Jack and Gemma Stecher, Olivia, Hannah, AJ and Henry Stecher, Isla and Marin Stecher, Tyler, Isabel and Tanner Hamilton. Sisters Jeanette Hohmann, of Dubuque, IA, and Carol Wagner, of Washington, MO and his brother Fr. John Stecher, of Davenport, IA.

Don was preceded in death by his parents John and Servina Stecher.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Eric Engelman and the oncology nurses, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Amy, Scott, Ryan and Suzanne; and to all the health care professionals, family and friends who helped care for Don.

Ronald L. Hanson

Ronald L. (Ron) Hanson, age 66 of Dubuque, Iowa, completed his earthly journey peacefully on Sunday, May 12, 2019 at Dubuque Specialty Care after a short battle with pancreatic cancer. To honor Ron’s life, a private family service is being held. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ron’s family.

Ron was born on December 25, 1952, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Harold and Lois (Walsh) Hanson. Growing up in Dubuque, Ron attended Hempstead High School followed by the University of Dubuque. Ron worked in a variety of management and sales positions throughout his career.

Ron was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes and Chicago Bears fan and rarely missed a televised football or basketball game. Ron also enjoyed a love of baseball and had dual loyalty to both the Oakland A’s and Chicago Cubs. Ron played softball for nearly 40 years and enjoyed spending time outdoors including hunting both for deer and morel mushrooms and summers fishing on the Mississippi River. Ron’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Hospice of Dubuque, for the compassion and caring support they provided to Ron.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ron include,
his mother,
Lois (Walsh) Hanson, Dubuque, Iowa;

his ex-wife,
Rosie Hanson, Dubuque, Iowa;

his three children,
Keri (Kent Eiler) Hanson, New York, NY,
Cory (Sara) Hanson of Colorado Springs, Colorado,
and Kyle Hanson of Mankato, Minnesota;

Ron will also be remembered by his three brothers,
Randy (Karen) Hanson of Dubuque, Iowa,
Dan (Beth) Hanson of Brentwood, Tennessee,
and Jim Hanson of Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Harold Hanson, Ron’s father, preceded him in death.

Memorial contributions may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Online condolences can be shared with Ron’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

John M. McDonald, III

John Manderson “Honest John” McDonald, III, 88, former Chairman of the Board and CEO of A. Y. McDonald Industries, Dubuque, IA and President of Brock-McVey Co., Lexington, widower of Barbara Burnham McDonald, his wife of 36 years, died at his residence Monday after a long illness.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road. A private family service will be held at a later date.

Born in Dubuque, he was the son of the late John Manderson and Eleanor Wood McDonald, Jr.

He was a graduate of Phillips Academy and Yale University before joining the U. S. Air Force in 1952, becoming a 1st Lt. while serving as a Jet Fighter Pilot for five years. In 1957 He joined the A. Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. in Dubuque where he spent his career. In 1964 he moved to Lexington to also serve as President of Brock-McVey Co.

John served on numerous boards in both Dubuque and Lexington. In Dubuque he served on the board of First National Bank, Dubuque Bank and Trust, American Trust, A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co., Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce, the Dubuque United Fund where he was Campaign Chair and Chairman of the Board, Finley Hospital, YMCA where he was chairman of the Fund drive for three years, The Dubuque Summer Festival where he served as co-chairman, the Dubuque Boy’s Club, Clark College Advisory Board, Clarke College Development Council where he served as Co-Chairman of the Capital Fund Drive, Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque Shooting Society where he served as secretary, Plantation Development Corporation, Public Utilities Company and Uniflow Gas Co.

Before moving to Kentucky, he was a member of his family’s church, First Congregational UCC.

John was a member of Lexington Rotary Club, Keeneland Club, Idle Hour Country Club, Lexington Club and had been an avid hunter, golfer and fisherman.

He is survived by his son, John Manderson (Julie) McDonald, IV; two daughters, Mary McDonald Gray (David) and Martha McDonald Coyle (and friend Donnie Anderson); seven grandchildren, Christopher Scott McDonald, Hollie Wood Coyle, Anna Catherine McDonald, Grace Elizabeth McDonald and John Manderson “Quint” McDonald, V, all of Lexington and Barbara Ellen McDonald and Amanda McDonald Scales-Conklin (Dalton), both of Lawrenceburg, his former daughter-in-law, Amy McDonald Ruble and a special and devoted friend, Becky Planck, Lexington.

He was preceded in death by two children, Scott Andrew McDonald and Heather Young McDonald and his sister, Margaret McDonald Humphrey.

Memorials to Blue Grass Community Foundation, 499 E. High St., Ste. 112, Lex. 40507, Lex. Rotary Endowment Fund, 401 W. Main, Suite 305, Lex. 40507 or YMCA, 239 E. High St. Lex., 40507.

Gilbert F. Beringer

Gilbert “Gib” F. Beringer, 75, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away surrounded by his family on Thursday, May 16, 2019 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Gib may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Sunday, May 19, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m., Dyersville American Legion services will be held at 7 p.m. and Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2019 at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, May 20, 2019 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Ralph E. Davis presiding. Burial will be held at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

Gib was born on June 7, 1943 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Nicholas and Bernice (Schlarman) Beringer. He received his education in the rural country schools. On May 4, 1968 he was united in marriage to Sue Ann Urbain at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.

Gib was a Veteran having served in the Army National Guard for 6 years. He drove milk truck for several years and owned and operated the Dyersville Redemption Center where he earned the nickname “The Can Man” for 10 years. He also was a RTA Bus driver for 12 years.

Gib was a simple family man. His biggest loves were his wife, daughters and grandchildren. He was a strong, proud, hardworking man with a very soft heart. Gib was an avid Chicago Cubs Fan. He loved to play cards with anyone and was known for his sense of humor.

He was a member of Basilica St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, IA. Gib was also a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post #137 and the Dyersville Knights of Columbus Council #1734.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sue Ann Beringer of Dyersville, IA; four daughters, Janelle (Eric) Spellerberg of Newton, IA, Angela (Norman) Millman, Melissa Beringer (Special Friend, Kevin Campbell) both of Dubuque, IA and Amanda (Doug) Funke of Dyersville, IA; 8 grandchildren, Nathan and Nicholas Spellerberg, Hunter and Tanner Millman, Courtney and Charlotte Beringer, Gabbi and Grace Funke; his mother, Bernice Beringer of Dyersville, IA; two sisters, Kate (Ron) Leifker of Greenville, Tx, Bonnie (Steve) Brimeyer of Farley, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Celester Rausch of Epworth, IA, Bernie (Mary) Urbain, Bob (Jean) Urbain, Judy M. Koppes, Julie Urbain, Nancy (John) Kramer, Jeff (Sandy) Urbain, Wanda (Dave) Roberts, Sarah (Tim) Ells; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father; two sisters, Joyce Beringer in infancy and Betty Rausch; father and mother-in-law, Earl and Gertrude Urbain, brothers-in-law, Dave Koppes and Mark Urbain; goddaughter, Kathy Ann Rausch.

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

Gerald J. Schlarmann

Phoenix, Arizona – Gerald Joseph Schlarmann “Jerry”, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away March 2, 2019, at his son’s home in Phoenix surrounded by his family.

Jerry was born on July 16, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, oldest son of Louis Bernard and Mary (Jurisic) Schlarmann.

Jerry could fix nearly anything from plumbing and home repair to welding and woodworking. He built fantastic furniture from oak, walnut and cherry and enjoyed helping others with their projects.

Jerry attended Sacred Heart School. After school and up to age 18 he worked for Dr. Shortell and considered dentistry at one time. In 1958 he started work at the Dubuque Pack and worked there nearly 44 years until the plant was closed. He was happy to say he did almost every job at the plant and often told stories about cooking food on the steam pipes for dinner.

On Oct 30, 1965 he married Vicki Lee Remy at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Vicki made sure he completed his education and Jerry got his GED in 1983 and an advanced welding certification in 1985. Jerry also worked part-time in law enforcement for the cities of Worthington, Epworth and Farley until his retirement. During retirement he built lots of furniture and every winter he drove from Dubuque to Phoenix with his dogs Lilli and later Oscar to spend time with his granddaughter.

Surviving are his son, Tom (Tegan) of Phoenix, AZ; one granddaughter, Tori. Three sisters: Darlene, Mary Lee (Bill) Miller and Kay (Gary) Nauman, sister-in-law Debbie (Basten) Schlarman and many nieces and nephews.

Private family services will be held at Mt Calvary Chapel. Burial at Mt Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 38 years, Vicki (Nov 2, 2003); his parents Mary (Jan 15, 1981) and Louis (Oct 1, 1981) and his brother, James Arthur (Nov 8, 2007).

His family wishes to thank the staff at Stone Hill Care Center, Chandler Regional Hospital and East Valley Hospice for their care and support. Special thanks to his sisters and cousin Pat for watching over Jerry in his later years.

Elizabeth L. Hingtgen

Cecelia M. “Cis” Meloy, 94, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away surrounded by her family on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Cis may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 17, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 5 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Saturday at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen.
Services for Cis will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 18, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Garryowen, Iowa.
Cis was born September 30, 1924 in Bernard, Iowa, daughter of Mike D. and Marjorie (O’Brien) Noonan. She received her education in rural Jackson County schools and St. Martin’s High School in Cascade, Iowa. She was a school teacher in Dubuque and Jackson County schools. She had a keen wit and was an avid euchre player for many years. She was proud of her Irish heritage and greatly enjoyed a trip to Ireland. She was always interested in the activities of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved hearing from them. She kept their photos nearby.

On September 17, 1946, she was united in marriage to Walter F. Meloy at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa. The couple farmed for many years near Bernard, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 18, 2002.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish and the St. Patrick’s Rosary Society in Garryowen, Iowa.

She is survived by three children, Peggy (Ron) McDermott of Coal Valley, IL, David (Ruthanne) Meloy of Muscatine, IA and Mark (Jeanne) Meloy of Dubuque, IA; 9 Grandchildren, Tanya, Erin, Brian, Lea, Liza, Rob, Marissa, Kevin and Shannon; and 22 Great-grandchildren; two brothers, Michael (Jeanne) Noonan of Peosta, IA and Patrick Noonan of Cascade, IA; two sisters-in-law, Mary Noonan of Cascade, IA and Shirley Noonan of Carmichael, CA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Mary Margaret Noonan and Frances T. Noonan; three brothers, Robert M. Noonan, John “Oz” Noonan and Daniel Noonan; two sisters-in-law, Mary Noonan and Nancy Noonan.
A Cecilia M. Meloy memorial fund has been established.

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

Gary L. McGinnis

Gary L. McGinnis, age 68 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 at ManorCare Health Services in Dubuque, IA. A private family service will be held to celebrate Gary’s life.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gary’s family.

Gary was born on April 19, 1951, in Dubuque, a son to Lawrence “Snuffy” and Elizabeth “Betty” (Ring) McGinnis.  Gary always felt blessed to have been able to spend his entire life in the Dubuque area, enjoying the time spent with family and friends.  He married his bride Debra (Ben) McGinnis on June 23, 1990 with whom he spent much time shopping, camping, relaxing by a fire and the occasional catfish dinner (his favorite).  They also enjoyed trips with the family to Jellystone and Adventureland and checking out his favorite toys at car shows.  Gary was not a homebody, though, always eager to trek the outdoors.  Gary cherished his time spent in Strawberry Point hunting for a trophy buck, a big tom turkey and morels (another favorite). He also spent countless hours fishing for catfish and trout. Being a forever kind and generous soul was in Gary’s nature. He made friends with all who crossed his path and so many of those friendships lasted a lifetime.

Gary’s professional life spanned operating as a CDL licensed semi-driver, 19 years at Georgia Pacific as an equipment operator and even into retirement as a driver of the local mini bus.  He drove both for the City of Dubuque and Luther Manor for 7 years until health difficulties compelled him to turn keys in for the last time.  Gary’s love for people, the ability to share his wisdom, experiences and “goofy” sense of humor made a lasting impression on those around him, even while struggling with his declining health.  Gary’s passion and good-nature was not relegated to his friends, but extended to his favorite pets as well.  He enjoyed a good walk as much as anyone, but if a good nap or a Packers game was finding its way into his day, you could be sure to find his puppies enjoying it alongside him.

It’s quite difficult to imagine living in a world without Gary. He had the natural ability to brighten everyone’s day and his attitude toward life is that which we can only hope to emulate moving forward. Gary’s physical absence will leave a marked void which even time will find challenging to fill and heal.  But we trust that the Lord will finally deliver the peace which Gary has been seeking and we are eternally grateful that any sufferings he may have endured have now ceased.  We will miss him, love him, laugh and cry for him, but most importantly, we will never forget him. We thank you Gary for all of the wonderful memories you’ve left behind for your family and friends to treasure. We will always remember to spread and share our love and devotion for others as you would have. God bless you Gary!

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Gary include,

his loving wife,
Debra McGinnis, Dubuque, Iowa;

his children,
Tammy (Bill Kaufmann) Sprecher, Dubuque, Iowa,
Tera (Aaron) Turner, Marion, Iowa,
Laura McGinnis, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Doug (Cindy) Siegert, Farmington, Minnesota;

his beautiful grandchildren,
Cody Sprecher, Cailee Sprecher, Alex Sprecher, Chloe Kaufmann, Jack Kaufmann, Logan Turner, Lucy Turner and Ellie Siegert;

his brothers,
Dave (Kim) McGinnis, Parrish, Florida,
and Ronnie (Kelley) McGinnis, Dubuque, Iowa;

his in-laws,
Tim (Jean) Ben, Dubuque, Iowa,
Tammy Ben, Dubuque, Iowa,
Jerry (Pam) Ben, Sherrill, Iowa,
Roger (Linda) Ben, Sioux City, Iowa,
Doug (Vicki) Ben, Durango, Iowa,
and Kathy Ben, Dubuque, Iowa;

his dearest friends,
Eldon (Sue) Fenton, Max (Jody) Fenton, Steve (Pam) Heinz and David Steines;

along with countless nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters, Mary Lee McGinnis and Kathleen McGinnis; his brother, Timothy McGinnis; his father-in-law, Harry Ben; and a niece, Krista Ben.

Gary’s family would like to extend a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Deacon Mike, Dr. Whalen and Dr. Steffen, along the nurses and staff at ManorCare and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care of Gary, and his family.

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

Dennis W. Grant

Dennis W. “Denny” Grant, age 65, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 6:55 p.m., on Wednesday, May 15, 2019, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Denny’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. To celebrate Denny’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, May 20, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Denny was born on March 15, 1954, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Robert and Immogene (Weber) Grant.

Denny married Diane Nadermann on May 5, 1984. He served proudly in the U.S. Navy, U.S. Naval Reserve and National Guard, retiring in 1998, with the rank of E-6. He received his education with St. Anthony Catholic Grade School and went on to graduate from Wahlert High School, Class of 1972. Denny also received a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Dubuque in 1978, and finally earned his M.A. from Loras College in 1982. He felt a human services calling given the fact that he had a handicapped brother and a very compassionate mother. Denny started his mental health career at Hillcrest Family Services in 1979, going on to work for several places, including The Gannon Center, until his early retirement in 2014. Denny served on several mental health committees, as well as the NICC Human Services Advisory Board. He was diagnosed with stage IV prostate cancer in 2011, and underwent various treatments over the past several years. Upon surviving 5 years, he wrote a book about his experiences called “5 Years and Beyond: Surviving Cancer”, which was published in 2016. Denny always had an optimistic outlook and never complained about his illness. The book was intended to be a reflection on his own experiences and serve as an inspiration to others. Denny was known as a jokester who liked to laugh and get others to laugh right along with him. He was a very kind and giving person who always made time for others. He believed that keeping your word was very important and the most valued aspects of his life were his family, country and career. Denny was part of the The Four Horsemen, along with Pat, Ski and Dan, they were friends for 60 years. He had many other close friends and associates that he liked to visit with. Most of all he loved spending time with Diane and his sons, whom he was very proud of. Denny also had a soft spot for animals and had several pets throughout the years. Denny loved to golf, travel and play black jack at the casinos. He was also known as a trivia wizard on morning talk show trivia contests.

Those left to cherish Denny’s memory include

his loving wife of 35 years,
Diane Grant, Dubuque;

his 2 sons,
David Grant, Dubuque, IA
and Daniel Grant, Washington D.C.;

his brothers,
Gary Grant, Plano, TX,
Rodney Grant, Dubuque, IA,
Paul (Diane) Grant, Fort Worth, TX
and Bob (Amy) Grant, Worthington, IA;

3 brothers-in-law,
Dan (Connie) Nadermann, Dubuque, IA,
Don (Suzanne) Nadermann, Hot Springs, AR
and Paul (Maria Alcordo) Nadermann, Dubuque, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Judy (Steve) Bries, Sherrill, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Denny was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Todd Grant; and a sister-in-law, Charlene Grant.

Denny’s family would like to thank Dr. Engleman and the entire Oncology Department at Medical Associates, as well as the staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Melissa G., they were angels that came into his home, creating “Memories in the Making”. We love you Denny, Rest in Peace!

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

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

Thelma A. Meier

Thelma Alice Meier, 103 a long-time resident of Bellevue, IA and Bethany Home in Dubuque, IA entered Heaven’s gates on December 18, 2018.

Thelma was born April 27, 1915 in Bellevue, IA to Roy and Anna Cheney. After graduating from Bellevue High School in 1932, she earned her beauty license in Chicago, IL and then opened her own beauty shop in Bellevue. Later in life, she worked in Bellevue’s Elementary School cafeteria for many years.

She was a long time and very active member of the Bellevue Presbyterian Church and Eastern Star.

Thelma was also a great “cooker” according to her grandkids. She loved to dance, golf, bowl, travel, and play cards.

She enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She was also a big Chicago Cubs fan. She loved to watch and root them on. Over the years, she indicated she wasn’t going anywhere until the Cubs won a World Series. God answered that prayer allowing her to see them win the 2016 World Series at the age of 101.

Thelma was united in marriage to Urban N. Meier on September 2, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 7, 2001. They were married for 61 wonderful years. After retirement, they wintered in Mesa, AZ for many years.

Thelma’s family include her oldest son Lynn (Mary) from East Dubuque, IL, her twin sons; Douglas (Debbie) from Casa Grande, AZ, and Dean from Mesa, AZ. Her family included nine loving grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, plus one on the way, and one sister, Lois Petesch from Hopkins, MN (formally from Hanover, IL).

Thelma was predeceased in death by her parents, Roy and Anna Cheney, loving husband; a brother, Roger Cheney; sisters, Jeanette Rathje, Dorothy Jess, and Vivian Williams. The sisters were inseparable and coined themselves…” The Cheney Chickens”.

A memorial service to celebrate Thelma’s life will be held on June 1, 2019 at the Bellevue Presbyterian Church, 503 Market Street, Bellevue, Iowa starting at 10:30 am. We welcome all those who want to attend a “Celebration of Life and Remembrance” gathering at 9:00 am. She will be laid to rest in the Presbyterian Cemetery in Bellevue.

The family wants to thank her doctors, the many nurses, and staff members from Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque who cared for Thelma. It was their love and caring that made her life comfortable and enjoyable. We are so grateful!

In lieu of flowers, a “Thelma Meier Memorial Fund” has been established.

“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10

Evelyn Callahan

Evelyn Callahan, age 109, of Bethany Home, Dubuque, formerly of 702 Caledonia Place passed away on March 27th, 2019 at Bethany Home. Evelyn was born in rural Clayton County, Iowa. She was the daughter of Joseph and Mary (Lange) Ferris of Guttenberg, Iowa.

She was a member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque. A semi-private service, for family and close friends will be held in the small chapel of Bethany Home. No Flowers, please. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery Dubuque, Iowa.

In her youth, Evelyn taught in a one-room schoolhouse in rural Iowa. She then returned to school and attended Metropolitan Business College in Chicago and worked at United Insurance Company. Evelyn married Hugh Callahan of Dubuque, Iowa in 1932, at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Chicago, Illinois. He preceded her in death.

Evelyn lived a very active life. She was President of the Policeman’s Auxiliary and the Loras Academy Mother’s Club. She was also secretary of the Mercy Hospital Auxiliary where she volunteered in the library. She was an avid and skilled bridge player. She was also an active democrat and worked the election polls for many years.

Evelyn is survived by her son Hugh (Sonia) Callahan, of Piedmont, California and his four children, David of Augora Hills, CA, Amy of Istanbul, Turkey, Carolyn and Anne, both of Piedmont, CA. Her son John Callahan (deceased) has five children. Michael, Susan, Tricia and Margie, all of Houston, Texas, and Christopher, of Birmingham, Alabama.

She has twelve great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

David A. Huseman Jr.

David A. Huseman Jr. 42, of Dubuque, IA passed away Sunday, May 12, 2019.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2019 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque.

Dave was born in Dubuque, IA on May 16, 1976, the son of David A. Huseman Sr. and Mary Lyons, (Donath). He attended Dubuque Senior High School and worked as a welder/custom fabricator. On October 8, 2011 he married Christine Roth and together they shared 11 wonderful years together.

Music was Dave’s life, whether it was around a campfire, on stage, or simply in a basement. When a guitar was in his hand, he was at his happiest. Dave loved spending time with his family, friends and especially his many cousins, he was recently overjoyed to find out he was to become a first-time grandpa.

He enjoyed hanging out with his dad and working on various projects together. His ongoing project was rebuilding a “Burt Reynolds” Trans-Am “Bandit” for Chris. Dave had a great sense of humor and his presence was undeniable to so many throughout his life.

He is survived by his wife, Christine; daughter, Chelsey of Dubuque; a son, Tyler of Dubuque; two stepsons, Christopher and Gage; his father, David; his mother, Mary; a brother, Dan; and a sister, Mary (Eric) Avenarius and his Lil’ Penny; along with nieces, nephews, cousins and many extended family members.

Cecelia M. Meloy

Cecelia M. “Cis” Meloy, 94, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away surrounded by her family on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Cis may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, May 17, 2019 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 5 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Saturday at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen.
Services for Cis will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 18, 2019 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Garryowen, Iowa.
Cis was born September 30, 1924 in Bernard, Iowa, daughter of Mike D. and Marjorie (O’Brien) Noonan. She received her education in rural Jackson County schools and St. Martin’s High School in Cascade, Iowa. She was a school teacher in Dubuque and Jackson County schools. She had a keen wit and was an avid euchre player for many years. She was proud of her Irish heritage and greatly enjoyed a trip to Ireland. She was always interested in the activities of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and loved hearing from them. She kept their photos nearby.

On September 17, 1946, she was united in marriage to Walter F. Meloy at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa. The couple farmed for many years near Bernard, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 18, 2002.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish and the St. Patrick’s Rosary Society in Garryowen, Iowa.

She is survived by three children, Peggy (Ron) McDermott of Coal Valley, IL, David (Ruthanne) Meloy of Muscatine, IA and Mark (Jeanne) Meloy of Dubuque, IA; 9 Grandchildren, Tanya, Erin, Brian, Lea, Liza, Rob, Marissa, Kevin and Shannon; and 22 Great-grandchildren; two brothers, Michael (Jeanne) Noonan of Peosta, IA and Patrick Noonan of Cascade, IA; two sisters-in-law, Mary Noonan of Cascade, IA and Shirley Noonan of Carmichael, CA; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Mary Margaret Noonan and Frances T. Noonan; three brothers, Robert M. Noonan, John “Oz” Noonan and Daniel Noonan; two sisters-in-law, Mary Noonan and Nancy Noonan.
A Cecilia M. Meloy memorial fund has been established.

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

Venson L. O’Hara

Venson L. O’Hara, 70, of Monmouth, Iowa, passed away on Monday, May 13, 2019, at the VA Medical Center in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Venson from 1 to 3 P.M. on Sunday, May 26, 2019, at Eden Valley Camp Refuge, 1415 50th Avenue, Baldwin, Iowa. Cremation has taken place and a private burial will be held at a later date.
Venson Lee O’Hara was born on January 11, 1949 in Clarinda, Iowa, to Charles Robert and Beatrice (Tamerius) O’Hara. He grew up in Clarinda and after the 8th grade joined the carnival. He then entered the military serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps and earning an honorable discharge. He married Mary Ann Scholtes on November 19, 1996 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Venson was a jack-of-all-trades. He had worked as cook for several years, and then co-owned and operated their business called the “Dog House” where he worked as a self-employed mechanic.

Venson was an avid collector of coins and old beer cans.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Mary Ann O’Hara of Monmouth, IA; a daughter, Jenny Lynn (and husband Joshua Shepherd) O’Hara of Monmouth, IA; 1 grandson, Isaac Lee Shepherd; and sisters Verna Lou of St. Louis, MO, and Viola of MT. He was preceded in death by his parents, and 3 brothers Victor, Vernon and Virgil.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Venson Lee O’Hara memorial fund has been established.

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

William E. Gurske

William E. Gurske, 82, of Rickardsville, Iowa passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 14, 2019 while traveling with his wife and daughter in Minnesota.

Memorial services will be 11 am, Friday, May 17 at Summit Congregational Church, where a visitation will be held from 10 am -10:45 am. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is assisting the family.

Ice Kay Horkheimer

Ice Kay Horkheimer, stillborn infant daughter, of Brittany Horkheimer and Antwoine Shealey, was called home on May 10, 2019. To celebrate Ice’s memory, family and friends may visit from 12:00 noon, until 2:00 p.m., on Friday, May 17, 2019, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Those left to cherish Ice’s memory include

her parents,
Brittany S. Horkheimer, Dubuque, IA
and Antwoine D. Shealey, Chicago, IL;

a brother,
Lazarick “JoJo” Childs-Horkheimer, Dubuque, IA;

her grandparents,
Donna S. (Terry) Thompson, Dubuque, IA
and Scott A. Morales, Davenport, IA;

her great-grandparents,
Judy (Paul) Horkheimer, Dubuque, IA
Karen Thompson, Dubuque, IA
and Joyce Bennett, Davenport, IA;

her aunt,
Brandy Phend-Bostic, Dubuque, IA;

her uncles,
Brandon Horkheimer,
Cameron Thompson
and Dakota Thompson, all of Dubuque, IA;

and many cousins.

Ice was preceded in death by her grandma, Claudia “Cookie” Shealey; her great-grandmothers, Alice Shealey and Katherine Kelly; her great-grandfathers, Gene Thompson and John Morales; and an uncle, Michael Thompson.

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