Obituaries Archive

Robert P. Jochum

Robert P. “Bob” Jochum, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa was called home peacefully on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by his family.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30a.m. Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Very Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery with full military rites accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:0p.m. Monday May 28, 2018 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a parish wake service at 6:30 p.m.

Bob was born on February 17, 1933, in Dubuque, one of the eleven children of Francis and Leona (Maiers) Jochum. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 1951 to 1954 and on September 29, 1956 he married Lynn Becker who preceded him in death.

Bob worked for the former Saint Regis Paper Co and later for Georgia Pacific until his retirement as a supervisor. In his spare time he enjoyed wood working and being a great handyman. He was a Chicago White Sox and Green Bay Packer fan and a honorary Washington Redskins Fan.

He is survived by his siblings Patricia Schumacher, Carol Thul, Joan Wagner, and Gary (Donna) Jochum all of Dubuque; sisters-in-law, DeLee Jochum, of Dubuque, Jolene (Bruce) Drapeau, of Bellevue, IA, Bonnie (Jerry) Roussel, of Dubuque, Betty “Babe” Becker, of Clear Lake, IN, and Barbara Becker, of Dubuque, a brother-in-law Gerald Meyer, of Dubuque and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife and parents; siblings and spouses Mary (William) Fransen, Jeanne Meyer, Dorothy (Lyle “PeeWee”) Reed, Leone (George) Reed, Wayne Jochum, Kenneth (Caroline) Neely, and Donnie in infancy; brothers-in-law David Schumacher, David Thul, John “Jack” Becker, Donald Becker, Robert (Ann) Becker, and sister-in-law Patricia (Tom) Schnee, along with several nieces and nephews.
A Robert P “Bob” Jochum memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to the staff at Bell Tower and No Place Like Home, and all others who helped care for Bob, especially his sister-in-law Jolene and nephew Nick, all your efforts, care and love were greatly appreciated by Bob and his family.

Robert E. Miller

Robert E. “Bob” Miller, 81, of Benton, WI, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away on Wednesday, May 23, 2018 at Manor Care Health Services in Dubuque.

There will be no public visitation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Bob was born on December 15, 1936 in Iowa City, IA, the son of Nick and Charlotte (Droese) Miller. He was united in marriage to Alice L. Brokus on May 8, 1953 in Dubuque, she preceded him in death on May 22, 2013.

Bob was formerly employed at Alter Metals, Jacobsen Recycling and Dubuque Wilbert Vault Company.

He loved going to the casinos and purchasing lottery tickets.

Surviving are five children, Charlotte (Randy) Waterman of East Dubuque, Bonnie Miller of Guttenberg, Alice (Rick) Revenig of Dubuque, Linda (Nick) Martin, of Anamosa, and Robert E. “Bob” (Tressa) Miller of Benton, WI; 16 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and 7 great- great-grandchildren; his siblings, Betty Billmeyer, Marion Wiezorek, Jean Rubie, and Ron Miller.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Jack, Don, Ed, Jim, and Jane Palm.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL, is serving the family. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.

Vincent F. Brimeyer

Vincent F. “Vince” Brimeyer, age 87, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 4:45 p.m., on Thursday, May 24, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center. To honor Vince’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street. To celebrate Vince’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, May 29, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum, where full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Vince was born on June 27, 1930, in Balltown, Iowa, son of Alphonse and Eleanor (Hansen) Brimeyer.

Vince grew up, surrounded by family and friends, in beautiful northern Dubuque County. He honorably served his country with the U.S. Army for over 2 years with the 389th Construction Engineer Battalion in Dubuque, and served another 2 years active duty as a Motor Sergeant, from January 1953 to December of 1954, with the 5th Infantry Division, 11th Infantry Regiment, in Augsburg, Germany. Vince was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go on Honor Flight #9, in May of 2015, with his son Jeff. He was raised with the values of honesty and diligence, alongside a strong work ethic, and put those character traits to use as a child on local farms during the summer, and working side by side with his dad in the shop in Balltown. He then spent 3 years at the Avalon Garage before finally starting at Clemen’s Motors, as a repair technician, working his way up to the position of service manager before he had invested over 23 years of his working career with them. And finally, Vince would earnestly devote his last 15 years of work to the John Deere Dubuque and Horicon plants as a mobile equipment supervisor/senior engineering analyst, until his eventual retirement in 1988. Vince wasn’t all work though, providing for those he loved in his personal life was the reason for the work. He was united in marriage to his soul-mate, Alice Klein, on September 25, 1951, at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville. They were blessed with 59 wonderful years together, and 3 children, before Alice was sadly called home ahead of him on August 29, 2011. He and Alice lived a rich and abundantly full life and were proud to have accomplished visiting all 50 states with family and friends throughout the years. In his free time, Vince enjoyed sitting down to watch his Cubs take the field, or the sights and sounds of a NASCAR race on a sunny day, and was even fortunate enough to have attended the Indy 500 3 times, as well as the Brickyard 400, to watch his favorite drivers, A.J. Foyt and Jeff Gordon, in person. He and Alice also spent as much time as they could in the great outdoors, fishing poles proudly in hand; a love which they’ve continued to pass down to their children and grandchildren today. More than anything though, Vince was a family man through and through. In his later years, Vince always looked forward to any opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; listening intently to all of their stories of daily life all while joyfully watching them attain what he knew to be the magnificent milestones of growing up. He was also very active with several groups around town, including the American Legion Dubuque Post #6, the John Deere Retirees Association, and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. Vince’s faith was also a very important aspect of Vince’s life, and he not only tried to live the Christian life by example, but was also a long-time and faithful member of the Church of the Nativity. We are deeply saddened today at the loss of such a wonderful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, friend, and positive role model to all who knew him. But, we do find peace in knowing that in time the pain will begin to heal, and thankfully we find comfort in trusting that not only will we all be reunited again one day, but that Vince and Alice are finally doing a little catching up as their eternal union begins.

Those left to cherish Vince’s memory include

his children,
Pamela (Steve) Dobbins, Milan, IL,
Janelle (Steve) Pregler, Dubuque, IA
and Jeffrey (Laurie) Brimeyer, Independence, IA;

his grandchildren,
Jason Dobbins, Jami (Marcus) McQueen, Zachery (Delaney Jansen) Brimeyer, Megan (Johnathon) McGhee, Brandon (SaRee) Pregler and Michelle (Brian) Huss;

his great-grandchildren,
Marcus, Mariyah, Maliyah and Makiyah McQueen, Jeremy and Oliver McGhee, Nolan and Sienna Pregler and Aleah and Raena Huss;

his siblings,
Ralph (Evie) Brimeyer, Bettendorf, IA
and Margie Huber, Dubuque, IA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Lucille Brimeyer
and Jane Brimeyer, both of Dubuque.

Vince was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Alice Brimeyer; a grandson, Jeremy Dobbins; his siblings, Robert Brimeyer, Lester Brimeyer. Willard (Rita) Brimeyer, Francis Brimeyer; and a brother-in-law, Ron Huber.

Vince’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Vince, and his family.

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

Grace M. Kagel

Grace M. Kagel, age 89 years, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 10:25 a.m., on Thursday, May 24, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center Dubuque, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Grace’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, with Rev. Richard Ament officiating. To celebrate Grace’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until the time of services at 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, May 30, 2018, at the Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Worthington, Iowa. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Grace was born on May 23, 1929, in Hopkinton, Iowa, daughter of Leo and Mary (Grace) Ament.

Grace grew up in the Worthington area, with her 4 brothers and dear sister, where she would eventually graduate from St. Paul High School before beginning to work on her Bachelor’s Degree at Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, and then finally achieving her Master’s Degree in Education from Western University in Macomb, Illinois. She would go on to invest over 51 years of her time and talents as a special education music teacher in Dubuque, Waterloo and Remsen, Iowa, and Peoria, Illinois. Her love for music and working with some of the Lord’s most precious children brought her true satisfaction and contentment throughout the entire journey. Grace was devoted to her faith life from a very early age and was a member of the Sisters of St. Francis in Dubuque for over 20 years. In time, Grace would also find love in her personal life at home and was united in marriage to John “Jack” Kagel on May 19, 1973, at Sacred Heart Church in Peoria. The couple was blessed with 36 wonderful years together, before Jack was sadly called home ahead of Grace on February 1, 2010. When Grace wasn’t at work, she could regularly be discovered at home with either a crochet needle, or a good book in hand. Grace was definitely a people person and any opportunity to make the world a little better place was never lost on her. Her genuine personality, and love for her fellow man, were continually on display and easily leave behind a legacy which all who knew and loved her can retain through these difficult days ahead. The Lord was generous in giving Grace 89 years, plus 1 day, here on earth and we are forever grateful for her vibrant and gracious presence during that time. We will miss Grace more than she could possibly know, but we are joyful that she is now, once again, reunited with her loving family who’ve been called home ahead of her.

Those left to cherish Grace’s memory include

her brother,
Wilfred (Mary) Ament, Decorah, IA;

her sisters-in-law,
Nina Ament, IL
and Irene Ament, NV;

and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John “Jack” Kagel; and her siblings, Leo (Joan) Ament, Donald (Beth) Ament, Leonard (Ophelia) Ament and Pauline (Richard) Guise.

Grace’s family and friends would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, and Luther Manor, for all of their wonderful care, concern and support of Grace. And a very special thank you to her Dubuque Angels; Rachel, Bev, Mike and Mary Pat, Bill and Sue, and Karlyn for all of their loving care, time and devotion to Grace.

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

Della E. Jaeggi

Della E. Jaeggi 106, of Stonehill Care Center and formerly of 261 Owen Ct., passed away Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, May 29, 2018 at The Church of The Resurrection with Rev. Joseph Hauer officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, May 28 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. where a parish scripture wake service will be recited at 6:30 p.m.

Della was born on October 13, 1911 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Dewitt and Lena (Dale) Kelley. She married Frank Jaeggi on September 13, 1931. He preceded her in death on November 3, 1985.

Della was a homemaker and enjoyed reading, baking, going for long car rides and fishing – especially in Minnesota. She was a wonderful mother and grandmother who will be greatly missed.

Surviving are her children, William (Phyllis) Jaeggi of Dubuque, IA and Rose (Jake) Frank of Mason City, IA; grandchildren, Mark (Karen) Jaeggi, Christine Tigges, Laurie Tschiggfrie, Kevin (Cheryl) Lehnen, Paul (Kristy) Dean, David (Kay) Dean, Marilyn Housner, Rita (Kurt) McMahon, Jake Frank Jr., Brenda, Dawn, Kandi, Kim and Ronnie Frank; numerous great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her daughter and son-in-law Darlene (Donald) Dean; her grandson James Dean and her granddaughter Kathy Kelly.

Della’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill Care Center, especially Toni, Payton and Will and Hospice of Dubuque for their constant care and support.

Memorials will be given to Della’s favorite charities.

Mary Janice Knapp Manternach

Mary Janice Knapp Manternach, 85, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away peacefully Monday, May 21, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque.

Friends and relatives of Janice may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Thursday, May 24, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Services for Janice will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 25, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Key West, Iowa.

Janice was born January 15, 1933 in Anamosa, Iowa, daughter of Joseph W. and Virgina C. (McCabe) Federspiel. She graduated from the former St. Patrick’s High School in Garryowen, Iowa.

On August 28, 1951 she was united in marriage to William P. Knapp at St. Aloysius Catholic Church in South Garryowen, Iowa. He preceded her in death on June 27, 1995. On November 22, 1996 she was united in marriage to Orland “Bub” Manternach at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Fillmore, Iowa. He also preceded her in death on June 11, 2005.

Janice was a strong, proud, and faithful farmwife for nearly 40 years before she started her second career working for the Sisters of Charity BVM at Mt. Carmel.

Her main focus in life was to care and pray for others in her family, always wishing prosperity and happiness for each and every one of them. Cheering on her beloved St. Louis Cardinals, the Iowa Hawkeyes, or any team her kids or grandkids were a part of was one of her favorite pastimes. She loved to travel including a memorable trip to the Vatican in Rome with her son, trips to Hawaii and Alaska with Billy and the many adventures with Bub near the lake in Texas. Janice was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She was a member of St. Matthias Parish.

She is survived by seven children, Rick (Mary) Knapp of Dubuque, IA, Mike Knapp of East Dubuque, IL, Kayla (Mike) Melloy of Coralville, IA, Ken (Kim) Knapp of Fayette, IA, Tom Knapp (Dr. Al Martin) of Denver, CO, Lori (Tony) Lust of Coralville, IA and Beth (Tom) Duccini of Dubuque, IA; six step-children, Eric (Susan) Manternach of Cascade, IA, Terry Manternach of Elgin, TX, Charles (Mary) Manternach of Elkhorn, NE, Linda (David) Stoverink of Carthage, IL, Diane (Dave) Boardman of Asbury, IA, Lori (Jeff) O’Brien of Cascade; one step-son-in-law, Randy Kurt of Kansas City, MO; 18 grandchildren; 22 great grandchildren; 12 step-grandchildren; 13 step-great grandchildren; one sister, Shirley Curoe of Dubuque, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a step-daughter, Amy Kurt; one step-daughter-in-law, Kathy Manternach.

In lieu of flowers a Mary Janice Knapp Manternach memorial fund has been established.

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

Jeffrey C. McDermott

Jeffrey C. McDermott, 55, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at home, surrounded by family, after battling Squamous Cell Carcinoma since November of 2016.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Thursday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Friday at St. Peter Lutheran Church where visitation will also be held Friday from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Jeff was born November 13, 1962 in Dubuque, son of Clement and Imelda (Decker) McDermott. He was a graduate of Dubuque Hempstead High School and the University of Dubuque.

On October 11, 1992 he married Pam Hubert at St. Peter Lutheran Church. He was a loving husband and father, and doting grandfather endlessly devoted to his family.

He was a chef at Timmerman’s Supper Club for over 30 years and was a product support analyst at Change Healthcare (McKesson Relay Health). He enjoyed skiing and golfing.

Jeff is survived by his wife, Pam McDermott of Dubuque; two daughters, Emily (Nathan) Roberts of Iowa City and Megan (Brandon) Valentine of Dubuque; granddaughter, Temperance Valentine; three siblings, Nancy (Chuck) Ashelin of Dubuque, David (Marilyn) McDermott of Dubuque and Wayne (Nancy) McDermott of Bonita Springs, Fla.; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Special thanks are extended to the family’s caring neighbor, John Kirk.

Aurora P. Vander Meulen

Aurora P. Vander Meulen, 5 month old daughter of Curtis Gilbert and Melina Vander Meulen, of Dubuque, was called home suddenly on Friday, May 18, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Aurora’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista Street, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating. To celebrate Aurora’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, June 9, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Aurora was born on December 3, 2017, in Dubuque, daughter of Curtis Gilbert and Melina Vander Meulen.

Our hearts are beyond broken today with the realization that our beautiful Aurora has been called home much too early for our minds to even comprehend. The five months the Lord was gracious enough to share her with us were beyond words. Her contagiously happy smile every morning, her joyful eyes followed up with a perfectly timed pouty lip when necessary, the tender touch of her little hands against your skin, and the essence of innocence she displayed so naturally will always hold a special place in our lives. Sadly, there are only the memories that remain which will allow us to feel her in our days now, and the mere thought of that is almost more than we can bear. Thankfully though, we are able to find peace in the fact that we trust the Lord has a plan in everything, and we also know that Aurora went straight from our arms to the loving perfection of her Heavenly Home. We will miss you everyday we’re apart Aurora and thank-you for the beautiful love you shared while you were here.

Those left to cherish Aurora’s memory include

her parents,
Melina Vander Meulen and Curtis Gilbert, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Payton Healey, Dubuque, IA;

her maternal grandparents,
Russel Vander Meulen, Dubuque, IA
and Dawn (Joe) Pray, Necedah, WI;

her paternal grandparents,
Neilda Howell, Dubuque, IA;

and her aunts,
Kylee Vander Meulen, Des Moines, IA
and Danielle (Eric) Carmen, Fort Dodge, IA.

Aurora was preceded in death by her great-grandparents; and her cousin, Bentley Randall.

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

Timothy James Widmeier

Timothy James “Tim” Widmeier, 61, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 19th, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, May 25th, 2018 at the Church of the Nativity with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday, May 24th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 7:45 p.m.

Tim was born in August 11, 1956 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Mark Widmeier and Biddy (Evans) Ramstedt. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1974, and in 2002 was a Cum Laude Graduate of the University of Dubuque where his major was Special Education, Multiple Categories.

He married Victoria Lorenz on August 9, 1975 at New Melleray Abbey in Peosta.

Tim was a self-employed flooring installer from 1975 to 1993; Special Education Teacher from 2002-2009 at Hillcrest School in Dubuque and from 2009 to 2018 he was manager of Widmeier Flooring and Furniture in Dubuque.

Tim was a devoted family man, he lived for his wife, children and grandchildren. He was a great story teller and a friend to all those who knew him, he could carry on a conversation with anyone.

Tim enjoyed Sunday dinners with his family and a great game of golf. Tim never worried about “who” was right, he always concerned himself with “what was right”. The most special characteristic of Tim was that, without exception, he always saw the very best in everyone.

He is survived by his wife Victoria; his children, Joseph (significant other, Rachel Erschen Kluck) Widmeier, Jamie (Jay) Blake, Jill (Jason) Conrad, Nicholas (Fiance Laura Borley) Widmeier, and Katie (Bob) McDermott. Grandchildren, Cody, Colton and Marisa Widmeier, Whitney and Austin Putchio, Michael, Jessica, and Johnny Blake, Dayton and Lillian Weldin, Joseph Grobstick, Christian Kemp, Carter Widmeier, Dalton and Chloe McDermott; his Godchildren, Sarah Fischer and Hannah Widmeier. His mother Biddy Ramstedt, and his brother Michael Widmeier both of Dubuque along with numerous beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Tim was preceded in death by his father Mark Widmeier, stepfather Dr. Ron Ramstedt, M.D., his sister Anne (Widmeier) Wallace and brother John R. Widmeier.

Memorials in Tim’s memory may be made to Hillcrest Family Services, 2005 Asbury Road Dubuque, IA 52001.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ramabadran in the Cardiology Dept., Dr. Brian Sullivan in Internal Medicine, and Dr. Honorio Caceres all with Medical Associates in Dubuque; the entire medical and nursing staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, especially Dr. Travis Snyders. A very special thank you to Julie Carroll-Petrarca, RN, for her unconditional love, support, commitment and nurturing guidance to our entire family as we navigated the heartbreaking journey.

Helen E. Rubie

Helen E. Rubie, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on May 20th, 2018 at home.

Funeral service will be at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Private family burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home until time of service.

Helen was born on July 7, 1938 in Georgetown, WI the daughter of Edward and Louise (Scharff) Hamilton. She graduated from Cuba City High School in 1956. On July 19, 1958 she married Arthur Rubie in Dubuque, Iowa.

Helen was a stay-at-home mom until 1980 and she then worked for the Telegraph Herald as a Librarian for 20 years.

She spent her life doting on her kids and grandkids. She enjoyed going to their sporting and music events along with baking their favorite cookies. She was an avid reader, Chicago Cub fan, and card player. She loved watching “her” birds and animals and enjoyed her many family vacations across the country. Helen was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother.

She is survived by her husband of almost 60 years, Arthur “Buzz” Rubie; her children, Michael (Bonnie) Rubie, Diane (Dale) Reuter, Patrick (special friend, Laurie Meyer) Rubie, and Suzanne (Stephen) Gassman. Grandchildren, Andrew, Zachary and Elizabeth Reuter, Jeromy (Deidre) and Mitchell Rubie, and Brook and Cooper Gassman. Siblings, Donald Hamilton, Leonard (Janet) Hamilton, and Virginia Bertram.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother Kenneth Hamilton; a still-born daughter; several brothers and sisters-in-law and her mother and father-in-law.

Joan R. Murphy

Joan R. Murphy, 78, of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at home, surrounded by her family.

Funeral services will be 6 p.m., Monday, May 21 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd, where a visitation will be held from 2 p.m. until the time of services.

Joan was born on May 27, 1939 in Dubuque, the daughter of John and Della (Lebben) Barrett Sr.

She married Robert Murphy on November 26, 1956. After 13 years of marriage Robert preceded her in death in August of 1969, leaving her to raise their 5 children. Providing for her family while being a young widow was her greatest accomplishment.

After Robert’s death Joan met Lefty Dalsing, with whom she shared 30 years. Together they owned and operated the Chateau Supper Club. They enjoyed spending winters in Texas, where they made many friendships. Lefty preceded her in death in February 1999.

Joan enjoyed playing cards and spending time with her children and grandchildren.

Surviving are her children, Kim (Mitch) Reed, Tim “T.J” Murphy (Laurie Chapman), Chris (Russ) Reed, Jeff (Teresa) Murphy and Billy (Lynn) Murphy, all of Dubuque; grandchildren, Shelly, Bob, Randy, Alicia, Katie, Amy, Kimmie, John, Cory, Amanda, Kelly, Lindsey, and Rob; 23 great- grandchildren; sister, Joyce Helling; sister-in-law, Nita Barrett, all of Dubuque; brother-in-law, Dick Murphy, of Osceola, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Tony Murphy; her parents; brothers, Billy and John Barrett; sister, Shirley (Vincent) Scardino; brother-in-law, James Helling; sister-in-law, Patty Murphy and her nephew, Tommy Murphy.

A Joan Murphy Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Dawn, Angela, Linda, Jan and Cindy, Dr. Janes, and her special care givers, Jessica and Connie for proving comfort and care to mom; and to her special neighbors and friend, Gwenie, for always looking out for mom.

Ralph J. Ernst

Ralph J. Ernst, 73, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away at 1:20 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, Iowa City, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial, 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 21, 2018 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque. Burial in the East Dubuque Cemetery, where full military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post #787.
Visitation 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday and from 9 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be at 1:30 p.m. Sunday. Members of American Legion Post #787 will meet at the funeral home at 2:00 p.m. Sunday.

Ralph was born on November 2, 1944 in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Orville M. and Marie H. (Till) Ernst. He graduated from Marquette High School in Bellevue. Ralph served in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1965 – 1967. He married June “Bonnie” Splinter on July 8, 1972 at Nativity Church in Dubuque, IA.

Ralph was a member of Local #94 U.A.W. and American Legion Post #787 of East Dubuque. He retired after 33 years from the John Deere Dubuque Works.

Ralph and Bonnie were caretakers at the East Dubuque Cemetery for 15 years. He loved to hear and tell good jokes, play golf, take care of his immaculate lawn at home and also enjoyed watching the Cubs, Packers and Bears with his wife by his side. Ralph loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife of almost 45 years; his children, Cindy (Jeff) Apel of East Dubuque, Jeff Driscoll and (special friend Angie) from Louisiana, Lisa (John) Mueller of Farley, IA, and Tanya (Pat) Schilling of Dubuque; three grandsons, Jake Schroeder of Dubuque, Joe Apel of Germantown, MD, and Michael Atchison of Dubuque; great-grandaughters, Ava and Audrey; and one great grandson, Kellen; his siblings, Juneva Sagers, Cleo Manning, and Annaclete (Julius) Nimms all of Maquoketa, IA; and many nieces and nephews; his in-laws, Edward Splinter, Brenda Halfhill and David “Pete” Splinter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother-in-law, Jerry Manning; niece Chris Manning; sisters-in-law, Doris Splinter and Debbie Levins; brother-in-law Mike Levins; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Ed and Dorothy Splinter; great nephew, Nick VanOstrand and great niece, Donna Splinter.

Ralph’s family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Officer Kyle Huseman and the East Dubuque Area EMTs for their quick response and compassion.

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

Marijo M. O’Brien

Marijo M. O’Brien, 95, of Dubuque died Tuesday, May 8, 2018.

A memorial mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m., on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. Gabriel Anderson officiating. A visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until time of services Saturday at the church.

Marijo was born on March 21, 1923 in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Joseph D. and Mary A. (Fleming) Martin. She attended Trinity High School in Oak Park, Il and the University of Iowa where she met her husband, Dr. Stephen A. O’Brien. They were married on May 4, 1946.

She was a volunteer at Mercy Hospital, active in Theresians and the Sunshine Circle service group as well as an avid golfer and bridge player.

She is survived by her children, Kathy of Oak Park, IL, Steve (Alice Kilgo), David (Nancy) of Dallas, TX, Molly (Bill Beyer) of St. Louis Park, MN, Sheila (Michael Kelty) of Oak Park, IL, and Meg Northey (Tom) of Oak Park, IL; her grandchildren, Sean (Carrie) O’Brien, Shay and Bridget O’Brien, Kelsey and Dannel Beyer, Kiernan and Griffin Kelty, Kirby, Liam, and Henry Northey; her great-grandchildren, Nico and Isabela O’Brien.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Stephen A. O’Brien in December, 1968 and her sisters, Jeanne Martin and Helen McManus.

The family would like to thank her incredible caregivers, Kathy and Angie whose devotion allowed Mom to be in her home and to Hospice Care of Dubuque for their compassionate care as well.

In accordance with her wishes, Marijo’s remains were sent to the University of Iowa Medical School as part of the Deeded Body program. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The University of Iowa – Deeded Body Program, 1-402 BSB, 51 Newton Road University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.

William J. Hennings

William J. “Burt” Hennings, 56, passed away on Tuesday, May 15, 2018.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 19, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd. with Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 18, 2018 at the funeral home.

Burt was born William Joseph Hennings on April 16, 1962 to Wayne and Jeneene (Hines) Hennings. On November 29, 1986, he married Mary Peterson at the Dubuque Boat Club.

Burt was an avid outdoorsman who loved to be fishing and hunting when he wasn’t working and if he was working, he was thinking about it. His biggest accomplishment in his fishing career was a walleye tournament where he and his brother-in-law, Billy Peterson, finished “in the money”.

Burt was a family man to the core. He loved his family with all his heart and would do anything for them. He loved being a “Papa”, he loved his wife Mary and all his children and grandchildren so much. Burt was such a kind hearted man, a big ole teddy bear. Burt also enjoyed spending time with his friends at the Dubuque Boat Club. He was also a football fan, We know he’ll be rooting for the Packers from above. Burt will be greatly missed by so many and we know he is still with us.

Burt worked at Addoco Inc. for many years as a fork lift operator.

Surviving are his wife of 31 years, Mary; his children Mike (Brenda) O’Toole, Heather (Ray) Lara, John (Alyssa) Hennings and Jessica (Mark Kohn) Hennings; his grandchildren Madaline, Autumn and Lauren O’Toole, Mackenzie, Kyler, Noah and Abby Lara, Jordan, Juliyanah and Hadlei Hennings and Aubreigh Cockrell, Antonia, Alexandria and Ava Naab, and Brianna King; his mother Jeneene Hennings; his siblings C.J. (Debbie) Hennings, Shelly Holland, Kevin (Lynn) Hennings and Jack (Yolanda) Hennings; brothers and sisters-in-law, George Peterson Jr., William (Linda) Peterson, and Vicky (Arnie) Henry, as well as numerous nieces and nephews on the Peterson side.

He was preceded in death by his father Wayne Hennings; his grandmother Rita Hennings; his; father-in-law and mother-in-law George and Joann Peterson, brother-in-law Dan Holland; his nephew Austin Hennings; and many other aunts and uncles.

A William J. Henning’s memorial fund has been established.

Burt’s family would like to thank Billy Peterson, and the first responders at Addoco, Inc. and the nurses and doctors at Unity Point Finley Hospital ER and ICU for their compassion and unending efforts in helping Burt.

Lucille M. Donovan

Lucille M. Donovan, 92, of Bernard, Iowa passed away on May 15, 2018.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 24th, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Garryowen with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 23rd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

Lucille was born on October 3, 1925 in Jackson County the daughter of Matt and Mary (Sterbenz) Gregorich. She married Arnold J. Donovan on November 28, 1946 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church Garryowen. He preceded her in death on February 10, 2000.

She was an active lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Garryowen, where she was on the Altar and Rosary Society.

She enjoyed gardening, playing cards, going down to the farm and a half of glass of beer.

Lucille was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and she enjoyed spending time with her family.

She is survived by her children, Fred (Elvira) Donovan, of DeWitt, Tom Donovan, of Milan, IL, Paula Strang, of Phoenix, AZ, Janet (Jerry) Feeney, of Dubuque, and Steve (Shannon) Donovan, of Tipton, IA; her son-in-law Norman Ottman. Sixteen grandchildren and ten great grandchildren. One sister Rita Hoffman, of Freeport, IL and 2 sisters-in-law Lois Donovan, of Bernard and Delores Gregorich, of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Arnold; a daughter Mary Lou Ottman; six brothers and two sisters.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to St. Patrick’s Garryowen Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the Memory Unit at Grand Haven Retirement Community in Eldridge, Iowa for all their loving care, kindness and friendship they gave to Lucille.