Obituaries Archive

Harold R. Burkle

Harold R. Burkle, 91, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on Monday, September 8, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Funeral services will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

Harold was born on July 6, 1934, in Dubuque County, Iowa, son of Paul and Anna (Olberding) Burkle. He was a proud member of the United States Army and was stationed over in Germany. Following his honorable discharge from the military, Harold married Gladys Hermsen on April 12, 1958, in New Vienna, Iowa. Together they farmed and raised their family northwest of Dyersville, Iowa.

Survivors include his wife, Gladys; children: Ann (Ron) Robison of Dyersville, Lori (Dan) Reittinger of Dyersville and Marty Burkle of North Liberty; grandchildren: Shelly (Sam) Murley, Mitch (Brittany) Reittinger, Eric (Nicole) Reittinger, Zach Burkle, Cade Burkle; 10 great grandchildren; siblings: Doris Hermsen of Dyersville, in-laws: Lorraine Burkle, Elizabeth Deutmeyer, Art Hermsen, Grace Hermsen and Diane Hermsen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a daughter-in-law, Ginny Burkle and parents-in-law, Gregor and Anna Hermsen; siblings: Charles (Luetta) Burkle, Leon (Theresa) Burkle, Lorraine (Joe) Stephan, George (Thelma) Burkle, Bernard Burkle, Walter (Verna Mae) Burkle, Betty (Jerome Hermsen & John Gassmann) and Gerald (Rose Ann) Burkle; in-laws: Alvin Hermsen, Richard (Eileen) Hermsen, Helen (Eldon) Gaul, Bernice (Ken) Vorwald, Roger Hermsen, Tom Deutmeyer, Harold Hermsen and Joyce Hermsen.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Hawkeye Care Center for their wonderful care of Harold.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Edward J. Kleitsch

Edwin J. Kleitsch, 103, of Cascade, Iowa, formerly of Monticello passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at River Bend Retirement Community in Cascade,  Iowa.

Visitation for Ed will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 11:00 a.m., at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, IA with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Concelebrating will be Rev. Mark Osterhaus.   Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

Ed was born December 22, 1921 in Walker, Iowa, son of Nicholas and Carrie (Kurt) Kleitsch.  On June 24, 1947 he was united in marriage to Dolores A. Rogers at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa.    He farmed all his life until he retired and moved to Cascade in 1986.  He then took up woodworking which resulted in many items for his family to treasure.  He was an avid card player and enjoyed putting puzzles together.  He was a great father, grandfather, great grandfather and great-great grandfather and was admired by many for his friendly, kind and humble demeanor, we loved all the hugs we were able to receive.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, and the Cascade Knights of Columbus and the 4^th Degree Dubourg Assembly-Council #1573.

He is survived by three sons, Dave (Judy) Kleitsch of Cascade, IA, Marv (Deb) Kleitsch of Monticello, IA and Gary (Terri) Kleitsch of Cascade, IA; 11 grandchildren, Angie (Jeff) Oberbroeckling, Amy Kremer, Luke (Erin) Kleitsch, Carrie (Matt) Menster, Shannon (Ben) Frasher, Nicole (Nate) Meyer, Jessica (Ryan) Sweet, Christopher (JoAnn) Kleitsch, Maggie (Eli) Hunderdosse, Katie Ricciotti and Timmie (Bridget) Kleitsch; 27 great grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; one sister, Sr. Ruth Kleitsch of Dubuque and one sister-in-law Rita Kleitsch of Monticello, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Dolores in 2005; one daughter, Sharon Kleitsch in 1954; a son, Steve Kleitsch in 2017 and an infant granddaughter, Kimberly Kleitsch in 1980; three brothers, Wilfred Kleitsch, Carl (Mary) Kleitsch, Irwin (Carol) Kleitsch; two sisters, Leona (Alve) Onken and Marion (Bob) Hosch; and a sister-in-law, Verna Kleitsch.

The family would like to thank River Bend Retirement Community  and staff; Sherry Kelchen and the staff at Medical Associates Clinic, Cascade; and the Hospice of Dubuque for their thoughtful and compassionate care of Edwin.

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

Celine P. Knockel

Celine P. Knockel, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center with her loving family by her side.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be at 2:30 p.m. in St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Tennyson, Wisconsin. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Celine was born on May 22, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Joseph and Hildagaard (Pickel) Margan. On June 7, 1958, Celine married Walter Knockel at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Celine was a woman who found joy in bringing happiness to others. For more than 30 years, she and her husband Walter delivered Meals on Wheels, and she lovingly cooked for the priests at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. A devout Catholic, she faithfully attended Mass every week. Celine’s talents in the kitchen were endless. An avid baker, she delighted in making pies, Suzie Q cakes, and her chocolate chip cookies, which she shared generously with others but never ate herself. She had a gift for ensuring everyone felt cared for, often baking each grandchild’s favorite treat so no one went without. Her kindness extended far beyond her kitchen, paving a path of love and compassion for her family and friends. Celine also enjoyed bowling, often taking her children along for Tuesday night games, and she remained an enthusiastic Euchre player until her final days. She will be remembered as a woman of unwavering faith, deep love, and endless generosity, who will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Celine is survived by her four children, Deborah (Dave Stokes) Francois of Dubuque, Tim (Patty) Knockel of Elizabeth, IL, Nancy (Kevin) Kainz of Mechanicsville, Iowa, and Wayne (Jim) Lynch) Knockel of Sterling, IL; eight grandchildren, Luke (Sarah) Francois, Eric (Tammy) Francois, Stacy Knockel, Tina (Brian) McVey, Raymond Knockel, Steven Knockel, Robert (Nicole) Miller, and Michael Miller; eight great grandchildren; siblings, Joe (Grace) Margan of Dubuque, JoAnn Stash of Huntington Beach, CA, Eleanor Frederick Bellwood, IL, Lorraine Webb, and June Margan, both of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Walter in 2013; great granddaughter Adrian; siblings Lloyd (Vivian) Margan, Butch (Ursula) Margan, Erma (Alfred) Kerkenbush, Germaine (Arthur) Hense; three brothers-in-law, Mike Stash, Gene Webb, and Donald Frederick.

Roger F. Bries

Roger F. Bries,  76 , of Cascade Iowa, passed away with his daughter Jill by his side, on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation for Roger will be held from 9 to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 8, 2025, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

He was born January 9, 1949 in Dyersville, Iowa, son of Clarence and Rosemary (Berns) Bries.  He was a graduate of Beckman Catholic High School in Dyersville, Iowa.  Roger was employed by the City of Cascade’s maintenance department for over 30 years and retired in 2009.  Roger had certifications in drinking water, waste water and swimming pool management

Roger was a hardworking, kind hearted man.  He was an avid gardener and loved being able to share his vegetable produce with family, friends and neighbors.   He would often mow and shovel snow with diligence and perfection for family and neighbors.  He enjoyed fishing and biking.  In recent years he showed his pride for the Cascade Community by being a dedicated carrier for the TH.  Most of all he treasured the time he spent with family, especially following his grandchildren’s activities.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

He is survived by three children, Karmen (Paul) Heim of Muscatine, IA, Jill  Bries,  and Michael (Katie) Bries both of Dubuque, IA; six grandchildren, Andrew, Ashton, Mya, Eli, Elliott and Quentin; four siblings, Linda (John) Kremer, Judy (Jim) Koppes-Betzner and Patti (Ed “Smiley”) Menster all of Cascade, IA and Dennis Bries of Dubuque, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother-in-law, Chuck Koppes; and a nephew, Chris Gibbs.

An online video may be viewed and condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Roger’s family would like to praise the kind and compassionate care he received throughout his illness including his home care nurse, Melissa Klinkhammer, Accura Care Center and the entire staff at Hospice of Dubuque.  Also a special thanks to Sherry Kelchen, the MercyOne oncology team and Lynne Conlin.

Dennis A. Gottschalk

Dennis A. Gottschalk, age 72, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, September 1, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque surrounded by his family.  To celebrate his life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m., on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:45 a.m., on Wednesday at the funeral home, with Msgr. James L. Miller officiating.  Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Dennis was born on January 26, 1953, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Earl Henry and Dorothy (Becker) Gottschalk. 

Dennis attended Dubuque Senior High School, and was part of the 1st graduating class from Hempstead High School, Class of 1971.  He then served in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserves from 1973 until 1983.  Dennis was employed with Eagle Window and Door and at the Theisen’s warehouse for several years.  He was a former member of the 5513 Knights of Columbus.  In his free time, Dennis could be found enjoying the great outdoors.  He was an avid hunter of deer and pheasant.  He enjoyed attending stock car races with family and friends, and he liked to watch sports, especially the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs.  Dennis was also known to try his luck with lottery tickets, always hoping to “win the big one”.

Those left to cherish his memory include

his siblings,
Cindy Gottschalk, Freeport, IL,
Timothy “Fuzzy” (Kelli) Gottschalk, Dubuque, IA,
Jane Connolly, Dubuque, IA,
Don (Kelly Becker) Gottschalk, Dubuque, IA,
Dorothy “Dottie” (Dennis) Anderley, Austin, MN,
Sarah (Dan) Zenner, Dubuque, IA,
Greg (Debbie) Gottschalk, Dubuque, IA,
Tammy (Max) Osman, St. Louis Park, MN
and Marty (Teresa) Gottschalk, Peosta, IA;

his goddaughter,
Hillary Gottschalk;

and his aunts, nieces and nephews.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to thank the outstanding staff at Bethany Home for their wonderful care of Dennis.  A special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff of Mercy Medical Center for their professional and compassionate care.

Cards and memorials in his memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Dennis Gottschalk Family.

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

Alan W. Link

Alan W. Link, 90, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Ellen Kennedy Living Center in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville prior to funeral mass.

Funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with burial in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137.  Rev. Georges Midiangu will officiate.

Alan was born April 14, 1935, in Dyersville, Iowa, son of Andrew and Dorothea (Walker) Link. He married Karol Ann Milbert on October 18, 1958, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa.  She preceded him in death on February 20, 1987. Al served in the US Navy from 1954-1956 during the Korean conflict.  Upon his return, he worked as a dairy supervisor at Tegeler Dairy for over 25 years. He would later work at Swiss Valley in Cedar Rapids and Gillette Dairy in Norfolk, NE. He retired and moved to Omaha, NE until settling back home in Dyersville in 2020.

Al was an avid golfer in his retirement. Although he moved to Nebraska and cheered on the Huskers, he remained an Iowa Hawkeyes fan at heart. While he lived in Dyersville, he was a member of the Dyersville Fire Department and became an EMT First Responder, and longtime member of the Basilica Choir. He also assisted Harry at McBride Funeral Home and later, Dave Kramer at Kramer Funeral Home.

Survivors include his children: Mora Link of Omaha, NE, Gail (Tom) Kruse of Peosta, Gwen (Jim Steger) Link od Dyersville, Jan (Greg) Martin of New Providence, NJ, Amy (Bill) Tratnack of Scottsdale, AZ; special friend, Leona Tauke of Dyersville; grandchildren: Rodney Meyer, Crystal Doland, Amber Mathias, Shaina Miller, Joel Steger, Miles Link, Kirsten and Hannah Smith, Ethan Neumueller, Emily Bouland, Ryan and Nicholas Kruse, Brendan Martin, Courtney Otskey, Elizabeth Tratnack, 20 great-grandchildren with one on the way; sister, Judy Hills of North Fort Meyers, FL; sisters-in-law, Mary Jo Frericks of Cedar Rapids, Lisa Milbert of Dyersville, Sally Link of Peoria, IL, and Peg Link of South Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Karol Link in 1987; son-in-law, Jay Smith; siblings: James Link, Steve Link, Carol Pettinger; in-laws: Marv Pettinger, Roger Milbert, Jude Milbert, and Melvin Frericks.

The family would like to thank the staff at Ellen Kennedy Center for welcoming him to his new home and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care, especially Kris, Jenny, Morgan, and Jesse.

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

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Linda K. Davis

Linda K. Davis, age 75, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey suddenly on September 1, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Linda’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Tri-State Community Church, 12937 Derby Grange Road in Dubuque.  A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Jack Redmond officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Linda’s family.

Linda was born on July 24, 1950, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Howard and Maxalinda (Carroll) Smothers.  She was a kind and generous soul who loved her family, especially her grandchildren, and made the most of each day she was given.  Linda eventually met the love of her life, Clem Davis, and the couple were united in marriage and enjoyed many wonderful years together.  She also spent many years working at Caradco and Bacon Veneer where she faithfully devoted her time and talents along the way.  Linda bravely faced her share of health issues over the years, but thankfully didn’t let them slow her down any more than necessary.

Linda cherished her free time, filling her days with things she loved. She enjoyed ceramics and was always up for a trip to the Meskwaki Casino to play bingo with Clem. She never passed up the chance to enjoy catfish at Bluff Lake, and if she had a spare moment on the road, you’d find her on her phone, absorbed in a coloring app. But, for those who knew her best, there was no denying her number one priority was her family. Her happy place was sitting in the bleachers, cheering on her grandkids on the field or at the rink. Linda loved her family with all her heart, leaving behind a wealth of memories for them to lean on during the difficult days ahead. We will miss Linda’s sweet spirit. Her loving presence and the best parts of her life will live on in those she touched. Thank you, Linda, for leaving your mark on the world. May peace be yours now as we wait to be reunited with you in time.

Those left to cherish the memory of Linda include,

her loving husband,
Clem Davis, Dubuque, IA;

her two sons,
Clem (Jessica) Davis Jr, Dubuque, IA,
Gene Jurisic, Dubuque, IA;

her adored grandchildren,
Abby Davis, Aiden Davis and Ava Davis;

her siblings,
Eleanor Ward, Dubuque, IA,
Gert (Mark) Frommelt, Dubuque, IA,
Donna (Dick) Haberkorn, Dubuque, IA,
Janet Smith, Dubuque, IA,
Howard Smothers, Dubuque, IA,
Curran (Lynn) Smothers, Dubuque, IA;

her sister-in-law,
Pat Smothers, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Rick Smothers, Fred Smothers, Carol Canfield, and Wanda (Saul) Ortiz; her brothers-in-laws, Don Ward and Bill Puccio; her sister-in-law, Rose Smothers; her niece, Tammy Edgar; and her nephews, Rick Smothers and Jay Kinney.

Linda’s family would like to thank Dr. Whalen, Dr. Moore, their staff and everyone at Tri-State Dialysis, along with the Dubuque Fire Department and EMS for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Julie A. Tenney

Julie Anne Tenney, 75, a resident of Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa, passed away on August 7, 2025.

Julie was born on July 1, 1950, in Cresco, Iowa, the oldest child of Harold and Sue (Ehlert) Tenney. She is survived by siblings: Robert Tenney, Jeff (Lori) Tenney and Barbara (Henry) Mills, as well as several nieces and nephews: Shay Tenney, Hattie and Thomas Mills, Brock, Kyle and Ian Tenney.

Julie graduated from Linn-Mar High School in Marion, Iowa. She worked a variety of jobs, including teacher’s aide, nursing assistant and at the egg factory in Monticello, Iowa. She had many interests, including genealogy research and writing. To know Julie was to love her. She had her own way and a story or experience to share on most topics.

The family wishes to thank all the staff at Mill Valley Care Center where Julie spent her last 15 months and became a part of their family, Dr. Hunter who really let Julie do things her way, St. Croix Hospice who assisted in Julie’s comfort in her final days.

A celebration of Julie’s life will be 10:00 am, Monday, September 29, 2025 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa, conducted by Chaplain Michael of St. Croix Hospice.

Local arrangements were entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, Iowa.

Germaine C. Schilling

Germaine C. Schilling, 91, of rural Zwingle passed away Tuesday September 2, 2025 at Hawkeye Care Center. A parish wake service will begin at 1:45 pm on Sunday September 7, 2025, followed by public visitation from 2 to 6 pm at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 am Monday September 8, 2025, at Saint Joseph Church Key West with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Germaine was born on February 17, 1934, the daughter of John and Lucille (Huegelmann) Hoefler. She grew up on the family farm in New Vienna, Iowa. On June 13, 1955, she married Lloyd Schilling at Saint Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna. After marriage they farmed together in the Zwingle area. They worked together side by side on the farm while raising their family. Farming and family was her way of life.

Although she never formally retired, she loved to travel; visiting all 50 states and even taking a few international trips. She also enjoyed square dancing and a good game of euchre with her friends Margaret, Joanne, and Ethyl. ​

She was a very faith filled person and a member of Saint Joseph Key West Catholic church and the Catholic Theresians.

She is survived by her children Shirley (Lorin) Deppe of Maquoketa, Rick (Karen) Schilling and Connie (Tim) Fisch both of Zwingle, a daughter-in-law Jacki Schilling, her grandchildren Adam (Amanda) and Sarah Deppe, Jonathan Schilling, Staci (Tyler) Wandsnider, Jenna (Nick) Rettenberger, Kali (Isaac Sutton) Schilling, and Justin (Shelley) Fisch, her 6 great grandchildren, sister Eileen (Jim) Simon, brother Clem (Joan) Hoefler, and two sisters-in-law Mary Ellen Hoefler and Joyce Hoefler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Wayne in 1993, her husband Lloyd in 1995, and siblings Arnold, John (Marilyn), David Hoefler and Mary Ann (Al) Geers.

The family would like to thank all the people who cared for her, especially the staff at Hawkeye Care.

Joan R. Heneke

Joan R. Heneke, 92, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, September 1, 2025, at Good Samaritan Society in Davenport, Iowa.

Joan Ruth Hensen was born on February 4, 1933 Davenport, Iowa, to Gilbert and Verna Marie (Helkenn) Hensen.  She was a 1950 graduate of Bennett High School.  She married Howard Heneke on November 16, 1952 in Davenport, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Roger and Rhonda.

Immediately following high school, Joan worked for Newport, Bybee and Wine Law Office in Davenport for two years.  Upon her marriage to Howard, she became a farmwife and farmed with her husband in the Delmar area until his passing on October 31, 1989.

Joan was a member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa and had served as the secretary and treasurer for the Delmar Evergreen Cemetery for 32 years.  Additionally, she was a longtime member of the Over 60 Club and had been a volunteer election coordinator and official for Delmar and Clinton County for several years.  She enjoyed gardening, word search puzzles, playing bingo, and was well-known for her black raspberry pies.

Joan is survived by sisters, Joyce (Jim) Brus of Bennett, IA, and Jolene Whyte of Davenport, IA; 6 nieces, 1 nephew; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; and a son-in-law Ed Sunderland.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, brother Virgil Hensen, and two children Rhonda Sunderland on May 6, 2006, and Roger Heneke on February 11, 2009.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, September 8, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:30 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Evergreen Cemetery, Delmar.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Church, Camp Courageous of Iowa, or the Delmar Evergreen Cemetery Association.

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

Janet K. Banwarth

Janet K. Banwarth, 67, passed away peacefully at home on August 30, 2025, surrounded by those she loved most. She left this world with grace after a valiant three-year fight with cancer, her strength fueled by an unwavering love for her children and grandchildren. Janet was born in Dubuque, Iowa, on August 17, 1958, to Donald and Pearl (Jansen) Meyers. Happily married since July 18, 1981, to David J. Banwarth of Sherrill, Iowa, Janet was a devoted wife of 44 years, a generous mother to four children, and a proud grandmother to five grandchildren with one more on the way.

Janet was preceded in death by her father, Donald Meyers; her mother, Pearl (Jansen) Meyers; her father-in-law, Alvin Banwarth; and her mother-in-law, Armella (Sigwarth) Banwarth.

She is survived by her husband, David Banwarth; her children, Kelly (Nathan) Klinge, Russell (Kelly) Banwarth, Sarah (Scott) Short, and Emily (Kevin) McGivern; and her five grandchildren, Miles Klinge, Lydia and Wesley Banwarth, and Allison and Blair McGivern.

In honor of her benevolent life, a small private ceremony has been held. There will be no public service. The family is grateful to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassionate services. We also appreciate the support of Dr. Engleman and the full staff at the Mercy One Dubuque Cancer Center.

In keeping with Janets wishes no public services will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Janet C. Miniaci

Janet C. Miniaci, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on August 29, 2025, at Oak Park Place.

A committal service will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 10556 Military Road. Burial will follow. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Janet was born on February 2, 1931, in Peosta, Iowa, the daughter of Hubert and Lucile (Matt) Fassbinder. She graduated from Peosta High School and from Dubuque School of Practical Nursing in 1969. She worked at Luther Manor as a LPN from 1969 to 2014. Janet was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West Parish for over 55 years. To fill her time, Janet enjoyed reading books.

Janet is survived by her daughters, Dolores Miniaci of San Francisco and Lynn Miniaci of Peosta; son Michael Miniaci of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren, Adam Hutchins, Melissa Hutchins-Kirk, Ryan Hutchins, Michael A. Miniaci, and Cecily Mininaci; great-grandchildren, Dexter Kirk and Cru Kirk; sister, Jeanne Busch of Clearwater, Florida; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hubert and Lucile; brother, Robert Fassbinder; sisters, Mary Schiffer, Dorothy Ehlinger, Dolores Cooper, and Lois Cunningham.

The family requests no flowers. Donations may be made in Janet’s name to American Cancer Society, Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of your choice.

Alois H. Wolter

Alois Henry Wolter, 94, of Dubuque, Iowa, was reunited with his wife, Olive “Buzzy”, in Heaven on August 26, 2025, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00pm- 7:00pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory,  2595 Rockdale Rd, a wake service will be held at 3:45 p.m.  Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 4 at St. Catherine’s Catholic Church with Fr. Andy Upah officiating.  Burial will follow at St. Catherine’s Cemetery.  Military Honors will be accorded by the Bellevue American Legion Post #273. A livestream of the funeral mass will be on the funeral home Facebook page.

Al wrote his own obituary, plus some updated notes. Putting the notes together and adding the updates, we honor the words he chose describing his life.

He was born on June 9, 1931, at North Buena Vista, Iowa, son of Harold and Barbara (Junk) Wolter. He married Buzz Keller on December 7, 1951, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque.

He loved to hunt small game and deer and liked fishing and boating. April and May were the months he hunted morel mushrooms. Thirty to forty pounds a day-an extraordinary day for most-but was nothing for Al.

He and his wife, Buzz, spent winters down South: Arizona one year, Florida two years, and San Benito, Texas, twenty plus years. He loved shuffleboard. The Texas State Shuffleboard Association classified him as an expert, winning trophies and medals.

For a pastime, he cro-knitted. He made over 170 afghans for family and friends.

He had thirteen ponies at one time for riding and driving. He had two wagons and two sulkies, and he drove them in parades . His children and grandchildren enjoyed riding them.

He was a member of the St. Catherine’s Parish for over fifty years, a Trustee of the cemetery for fifty plus years. He started the Avenue of Flags in 1986 and dug graves for 47 years.

He retired from Dubuque Packing Company in 1983 after thirty-one years. He farmed for twenty-seven years and always had a big garden.

He is a veteran from the United States Air Force serving during the Korean Era.

Al is survived by his daughters, Terry (Ron) Sheedy, Tracey (Mark) Hueneke, Trudy (Jeff) Theisen, Tammy (Don) Zimmer; sons, Tim (Jill) Wolter and Toby (Nicole) Wolter; 18 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 2 bonus grandchildren, and 7 great bonus grandchildren 5 great great bonus grandchildren ; siblings, Harry (Sharon) Wolter, RuthAnn (Jerry) Burger, Barbara Jean Tuthill, in- laws Janet Wolter, Rosemary Wolter, Barb Wolter, Karen Wolter, Helen Gourley, John (Marilyn) Keller, and Joan Lester Keller. Alois was preceded in death by his wife, Olive “Buzzy” Wolter, his son Thomas Wolter, his parents, his mother and father-in-law, Oliver “OJ” and Iris Keller; siblings, Rosemary (Earl) Fagen, Lavern Wolter, Loren Wolter, Duane Wolter, Denny Wolter in-laws, Tom Tuthill, Dorothy (Mickey) Marty, Dolores “Toots” (Don) Jungblut, Ruth (Ed) Neyens, Oliver “Wimpy” Keller, Doris “Cookie” (Ron) Kuehn, Don Gourley, and Peter (Carol) Keller.

Our family wrote a much more expanded obituary, but in keeping with his simple direct style, we are brief in our closing thoughts.

Al Wolter would say, “If you want something done, ask a busy man.” He was a doer; he got things done. He forgot to mention, he was one of the founding fathers of the Key West Sportsmen’s Club. He taught shuffleboard lessons so others could enjoy it. He gave away morels, garden produce, and in general shared his talents. His obituary did not show his deeply emotional side: how much he cherished family, how much he loved Buzzy, how he loved his parish community and how he felt about his second family of friends in Texas. There is much we could say, but his last note said he wanted a “smile on my face” and that will be enough said. We believe our parents are happily reunited.

The family is deeply grateful for the support of family,  friends, and community.

A special thank you to Mill Valley Care Center and Jackson County Hospice for the comfort and care given to our Dad in his  final days. Memorials may be made to St. Catherine’s Avenue of Flags or according to family wishes.

John J. Welu

John J. “Jake” Welu, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 29, 2025, at Bethany Home, with his family lovingly at his side.

Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 4th, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 7:00 p.m. Additional visitation will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Jake was born on January 10, 1936, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Edward and Loras (Duggan) Welu. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and on September 14, 1957, he married Beverly “Bev” Howes at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

He worked for Eagle Pitchers/Inspirational Development in Shullsburg, WI as an Office Manager. After retirement he worked for AMOCO Convenience stores which included the Dodge Street and JFK/Pennsylvania locations for 20+ years.

Jake was a long-time parishioner of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, where he also served as an usher for many years.

Jake was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was always smiling and was very witty. He enjoyed ice cream and the occasional visit to the casino. He was his daughter’s biggest fan when she played volleyball at Wahlert and at the University of Iowa.

He is survived by his daughter Jennifer (Jeff) Harding of Navarre, FL; his grandchildren Quentin Welu of Dubuque, IA and Alex (Lola) Aragon of Colorado Springs, Co.; great grandchild Ezekiel “Zeke” Aragon; one sister Pat Brown, of Dubuque, IA; in-laws William “Bill” Howes of East Dubuque, IL, Linda Howes, Roxanne (Ron) Bahl, and Doris Howes all of Dubuque.

Jake was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Beverly “Bev” Welu on Oct. 21, 2018, father and mother-in-law Lloyd and Mary Vivian Howes; brothers Edward Welu Jr. and Thomas Welu; brothers-in-law Robert “Bob” Howes, Thomas “Tucker” Howes, James “Jim” Brown, and sister-in-law Betty Welu.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Bethany Home or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Bethany Home, particularly Joan Hoerner, for her love and support and to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angie G., our personal angel here on earth, for all their compassionate care.

Richard Meehan

Richard Meehan, 78, of Dubuque, died Sunday, August 17, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:30 am until 11:15 am on Tuesday, September 9, 2025 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Richard will be at 11:30 am Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Richard was born May 2, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Carlyle and Louise (Birkel) Meehan. On January 28, 1967, he married Glady Theis at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Richard graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1966 and went on to further his education at NICC.

Richard worked as a switchman, brakeman, conductor, and yardmaster for the Milwaukee/St. Paul Pacific, Pacific North West, and the Chicago Central Pacific Railroads. He worked at various machine shops up until his retirement.

Richard was an avid sports fan, whether it was watching Notre Dame, the White Sox, or attending his granchildrens’ sporting events. He was a talented woodworker, and enjoyed making cedar chests, toy boxes, and rocking horses for his family. He never turned down a game of Euchre or Trivia.

Survivors include his wife, Glady of Dubuque; four sons, John (Jill) Meehan, Pat (Pam) Meehan, Chad (Liz) Meehan, and Cory (Jennifer) Meehan all of Dubuque; 11 grandchildren, Ryan, Kayla, Jenna, Joe (Katelyn), Julia, Carlyle, Kylie, Carter, Collin, Keegan, and Carson; one great-grandchild, Liam; one brother, James (Judy) Meehan of Williamsburg, VA; three sisters, Lorraine Dietrich, Shirley Kane, and Fran (Larry) Brietbach; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, Richard was preceded in death by four sisters and in-laws, Patsy (Donald) Balk, Marlene “Mickey” (Dennis) McCarthy, Donna (Dennis) Runde, Regina “Mae” (Jack) McCarty, Owen Dietrich, and Stanley Kane, two nephews, Tim McCarty and Karl Runde, and one niece, Dawn Manders.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque and the dedicated nurses and staff at MercyOne and Luther Manor for all of their care given to Richard.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

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