Obituaries Archive

Marcella C. Jaeger

Marcella “Sally” C. Jaeger, 90, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, August 6, 2018 at Finley Hospital.

Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, August 8, and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Thursday, August 9, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, August 9, at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Fr. Steven Rosonke will officiate. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Sally was born October 8, 1927 in Spechts Ferry, the daughter of Nicholas and Magdalene (Schueller) Koltes. She married Lawrence “Larry” Jaeger on October 14, 1947 at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Sherrill. He preceded her in death on January 9, 2002.

Sally was an Avon dealer for over 20 years, and enjoyed the friends she met and kept over the years. She was a longtime member of St. Anthony’s Parish. Sally enjoyed boating on the river with family, shopping, and spending time with her family and grandchildren.

Sally is survived by three children, Judy (Paul) Demkier of Dubuque, and their children: Dawn (Randy) Avenarius of Dubuque and Dana (Russ) Hamm of Benton, WI; Joan (Mike) Hames of Le Claire, IA and their children: Tracy (Jeff) Little of Dubuque and Chad (Liz) Hames of Long Grove, IA; and Bob (Jackie) Jaeger of Dubuque and their son Sam Jaeger of Dubuque; five grandchildren; ten great grandchildren; one great great granddaughter; five step grandchildren; 2 step great grandchildren; seven step great great grandchildren; and two sisters in law, Ramona Shireman of Dubuque and Alberta “Babe” Lahey of Dubuque.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her infant grandson; five sisters; and four brothers.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Marcella C. Jaeger Memorial Fund for later donation to her favorite charities.

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

Susan Elizabeth Curtis

Susan Elizabeth Curtis, 46, ended her thirty-month struggle with pancreatic cancer on Saturday, August 4th, 2018 at her parents’ home in Dubuque.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at noon Saturday, August 11th, 2018 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller and Rev. Ardel Barta officiating. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Susan was born in Dubuque on August 21, 1971 to John Taylor Curtis and Judith (Grab) Curtis. She graduated from Wahelrt High School in 1989 and from Loras College in 1993 with a B.A. in Speech Communication. She spent most of her adult life in Chicago where she worked as an office manager for several large corporations, most recently for Merisant Worldwide.

Susan loved socializing with her many friends, planning and organizing events, traveling, going to the beach, reading, following the Cubs and the Packers, and being with her beloved Golden Retriever, Dexter.
Susan is survived by her parents, John and Judith of Dubuque; her sister, Sara Curtis Schumacher, and her niece Nora Schumacher, both of Appleton, Wisconsin; aunts Janet (Jerry) Swafford, of Bella Vista, Arkansas, Jackie (Randy) Burke, of Marion, Iowa, and Barbara McDonnell, of Champagne, Illinois; cousins Stacey and Brad Burke; and very special friends who assisted her during her illness: Madelin, Kristen, Patti, Anne, Katina, Kari, Liz, Peggy, Karla, Isabelle and several others.

She was preceded in death by her maternal and paternal grandparents and her uncle, Robert Curtis.

The family would like to thank the wonderful team at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Cindy, Kristen, Elizabeth, Amy, Suzanne, and Jessica, as well as Dr. Mark Liaboe of Grand River Medical Group, for their care during Susan’s final days. A special thank you, too, to everyone at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion, Illinois, who treated and cared for Susan during her long illness.

Memorials can be directed to Hospice of Dubquue, Loras College, or CTCA Midwestern Regional Center, 2520 Elisha Ave., Zion, IL 60099.

Kathryn N. Schilling

Kathryn N. “Kay” Schilling, 74, of Colesburg passed away Monday, August 6, 2018, at her home after a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Thursday, August 9, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. A private family Memorial Service will be held. Burial in the St. Patrick Cemetery in Colesburg.

Kay was born June 24, 1944, in Elkader, Iowa the daughter of Azel and Norma (Warner) Pratt. She graduated from Central High School in Elkader. She married John Schilling on November 21, 1963, in Elkader. Together they farmed near Colesburg. When they retired, Kay worked at Products Unlimited in Guttenburg.

Kay enjoyed her grandchildren, gardening and her flower beds, reading, and driving around with John. She also enjoyed her morning coffee group and visiting with family and friends. She enjoyed baking cookies for her grandkids as the cookie jar was never empty.

Survivors include her husband, John, 4 children: Lisa (Steve) Kroeger of Petersburg, Linda (fiancé Dean Dempster) Schaul of Delhi, Julie (Duane) Staner and Mark (Melissa) Schilling, all of Colesburg; 10 grandchildren: Chris (Jenna Simon) Kroeger, Jessica (Brian) Stover, Nikki ( friend Brock Berto) Kroeger, Cassidy (friend Riley Walter) Schaul, Hayley Schaul, Rick Schilling, Kelly (friend Justin Curtis) Staner, Austin Staner, Mason and Makayla Schilling; 2 great grandchildren: Carter and Owen Stover; in-laws: Sharon Pratt of Waukon, Harold (Alice) Schilling of Colesburg, Mary (Joe) Goebel of Luxemburg and Diane Schilling of Guttenberg.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings: twin brothers that died in infancy, Ray Pratt and Anna Marie Butikofer and a brother-in-law, James Schilling.

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

Grace V. Vondran

Grace V. Vondran, age 89, of Potosi, WI, was called home peacefully at 9:35 a.m., on Sunday, August 5, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Grace’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, August 9, 2018, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating. Burial will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Kieler, WI. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Grace was born on October 4, 1928, in Grant County, Wisconsin, daughter of Michael and Barbara (Riley) Kirchberg.

Grace was born in rural Wisconsin and she would happily call the rolling hills of the Badger State home for her entire life. She was united in marriage to Robert Vondran, and together they would settle in Potosi to raise their 10 children, before he was sadly called home ahead of her on May 30, 2014. Grace was a devoted wife, mother and homemaker, who, to everyone’s delight, had a passion for cooking and was excellent at creating a wide variety of wonderful dishes. She was a caring mother and was quite proud of her ability to make sure all of the children were well taken care of, always making sure each knew how loved they were. Grace was a straight-shooter and you never had to guess how she felt about any subject, whether you were on her side or not. In her free time, Grace loved to get in the car and head out for a “Sunday drive”, no matter what day of the week it was, and her happiest destinations were the ones that led to visiting with family and friends. She also enjoyed years of a little down time listening to Betty Thomas on the radio. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our kind mother, grandmother, sister and friend, and will surely miss her more than words can convey; but we are also grateful for the 89 years we had to spend with her and the memories we created which will last a lifetime.

Those left to cherish Grace’s memory include

her 10 children,
Daria Vondran, Potosi, WI,
Robert (Tina) Vondran, Monticello, IA,
Debra (Dennis) Byrnes, Bettendorf, IA,
Dennis Vondran, Platteville, WI,
Doug Vondran, Dubuque, IA,
Daniel Vondran, Dubuque, IA,
Randy Vondran, Cuba City, WI,
Donna Hessling, Dickeyville, WI,
Doris Vondran, Cuba City, WI
and Denise Vondran, Cuba City, WI;

11 grandchildren,
Scott Bradley, Andrew (Sarah) Bradley, Heather (Scott) Byrnes Isley, Brendan Byrnes, Catherine Byrnes, Joshua (Dominque) Vondran, Zachary (Lindsey) Vondran, Randi Lynn (Adam) Berning, Nathaniel Vondran, Isaih Hessling and Rachel Hessling;

6 great-grandchildren,
Kaitlyn, Tytus and Baryn Vondran, Persephone Berning, Chloe Isabel Isley and Haven Victoria Vondran;

and her sisters,
June (Ray) Owens, Madison, WI
and Rita (Glenn) Hansen, Bellevue, IA.

Grace was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Vondran; a grandson, Chad Michael Vondran; a daughter-in-law, Vikki Vondran; and a sister, Edna (Orrin) Lenstra.

Grace’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kind, attentive and professional care of Grace and her entire family.

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

Jerome J. Meyer Sr.

Jerome J. “Jerry” Meyer Sr., age 82, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:15 a.m., on Sunday, August 5, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Jerry’s life, funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 8, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street with Deacon John Stierman officiating. To celebrate Jerry’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m., until the time of service at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, August 8, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Jerry was born on August 6, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Bart and Lucy (Tench) Meyer.

Jerry grew up in Dubuque’s North End and graduated from Senior High School in 1953. He joined the Navy in hopes of seeing the world, and eventually was stationed in Lake Michigan, where he met his future wife, Anita. In his younger years, he enjoyed hunting, especially his trips to Wyoming with “the guys”. Later, he gave up hunting and took up golfing, sometimes playing seven days a week. On August 17, 1957, he married Anita Elaine Kubitz, and they were married for over 50 years, raising 4 children together. Jerry was proud of the fact that he worked at “The Pack” for 38 years, especially in the “good ol’ days”, when it was a great place to work, having spent a majority of the time in the beef cooler or freezer. Jerry had been active in the Knights of Columbus as a Fourth degree Knight. In more recent years, he was a member and helped out at the local Moose Lodge Family Center, especially when his friend, Gordy Neumann, was tending bar or putting on a meal. Jerry and Anita traveled widely, often with their good friends, Gordon and Rosemary Neumann and Bob and Bobby Rogan, having visited too many places to list! In addition to the many other friends they made along the way. After they both retired, Jerry and Anita became “snowbirds”, following Anita’s brother and sister-in-law, Ray and Wanda Kubitz, down south to Florida. The warmer weather agreed with Jerry and after Anita passed away in 2008, he moved to Florida full-time, where his circle of friends continued to grow. In recent years Jerry started going for morning walks and doing crossword puzzles, staying healthy and keeping his mind sharp, and also took up reading thriller novels. In Florida, he was active in the Loyal Order of Moose and the VFW. In recent months, Jerry returned to his hometown of Dubuque, Iowa, where he enjoyed the best Midwestern steaks, Iowa cut pork chops, sweet corn and garden fresh tomatoes. He was fortunate enough to enjoy a few Maker’s Mark Manhattans and to say goodbye to friends and family.

Those left to cherish Jerry’s memory include

his children,
Jerome J. Meyer Jr.,
William T. Meyer,
Jolene A. (Emmett) Young
and Keith R. Meyer, all of Dubuque, IA;

4 grandchildren,
Jason (Stacy) Meyer, Bart (Katie) Meyer, Jessica Young and Christopher Young;

3 great-great grandchildren,
Wesley, Elayne and Quinn Meyer;

his siblings,
Teresa Pluym, Dubuque, IA,
Robert “Bob” (Joyce) Meyer, Maron, MO
and John (Marian) Meyer, Dubuque, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Debbie Meyer, East Dubuque, IL;

and several nieces and nephews.

In death, Jerry is reunited with his parents; his loving wife, Anita Meyer; 3 sisters, Eileen (Richard) Breese, Alice (George) Mootz and Armella (Cyril) Grassel; a brother, Mark “Bud” Meyer; and a brother-in-law, Richard Pluym.

Jerry, and his family, would also like to give a very special thanks to the nurses at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kristin, Stephanie and Stacy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials will be accepted and donated to Jerry’s favorite charities.

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

Monica L. Morse

Monica Louise Morse was born 5th to Marjorie & Cleve Morse in Cedar Rapids Iowa on August 16, 1979. Monica came with a zest for life. Early years had lots of hospital time for Monica. Marjorie especially dedicated her life to trying to keep Monica safe. Monica on the other hand spent her life trying to do as much as possible and safe wasn’t her priority. Monica graduated from Kennedy High School in Cedar Rapids, May, 1999. She loved to travel and it didn’t matter if it was by car, plane, boat or her two feet she wanted to go. Monica loved the water and learned to swim at an early age. She tackled water slides, but she wanted to jump off diving boards. Monica had NO depth of field. So the board length, width, bounce of the board and her mom yelling she could NOT do it had always kept her from jumping. However, her nephew Andrew helped her overcome that challenge by standing on the side of the pool giving directions. He also had to yell at the other kids who wanted her to hurry up. She was ecstatic and after practicing with him as coach was able to do it without the coach. Monica had many pets: goats, rabbits, hamsters and dogs, however she was a cat person and Monique was her cat of choice for over 15 years. Monica loved projects and power tools. Screw guns were one of her favorite way to fix things. Monica enjoyed many things but helping in Kindergarten Sabbath School class, holding babies, saying scriptures with Rebekah and listening to Elvis.

Monica was pronounced dead on July 27th, 2018 at University of Iowa Hospitals. She went into St Luke’s hospital Wednesday morning the 25th and by the time she got to Iowa City she was not responding neurologically. She touched many people’s lives while she was alive and will continue to touch others with donated organs & tissue. Her death was caused by problems with the fluid in the brain. Monica had been born with Hydrocephalus in conjunction with Dandy-Walker syndrome. She had shunts that originally drained the fluid over time the shunts stopped working with what appeared no change in Monica. However, fluid was building up and it became too much.

At the Celebration of Life done July 30th words that people wrote to share with us were: Never saw her without a smile, always willing to help, caring, spitfire, kept her word, courageous, funny, passionate, friendly, always count on her to help me move things- she was so strong.

Monica is survived by Julie Morse Cedar Rapids, Iowa Rebekah (Clayton) Morse Cleburne Texas, Dave (Jen) Morse Marion Iowa, Donald Morse Midland Texas. Nephews Andrew & DeMarcus Stokes, Brandon & Dylan Morse. Many aunts, uncles, cousins and many very special friends.

Her parents Marjorie and Cleve proceeded in her death.

Family would like to thank the staff from Systems Unlimited for all their hard work with Monica over the last several years as Monica wanted to spread her wings and stop living at home.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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

Dianne M. Smith

Dianne M. Smith, 72, of Bloomfield, Iowa formerly of Hiawatha, Iowa, died Tuesday, August 2, 2018 at 7:40 a.m. at the Davis Center in Bloomfield, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Dianne may call after 9:00 a.m., Monday, August 6, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, where services will be held at 10:30 a.m., with Rev. Douglas Loecke officiating. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa. The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Dianne was born April 14, 1946 in Lancaster, WI, daughter of Frank and Margaret Heilman. On June 2, 1973 she was united in marriage to Leo Smith at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He preceded her in death on May 29, 2005. She was employed as a CNA for many years.

She is survived by a daughter, Connie Studnicka of Prairie Du Chein, WI; six sisters-in-law, Annette (Donald) Even of Worthington, IA, Ann (Steve) Lansing of Rochester, MN, Carleen (Bruce) Rehmke of Peosta, IA, Anita (Tom) Gleason and Margaret Smith both of Cascade, IA; and a brother-in-law, Donald Takes of Cascade, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Mary Steinhof; three sisters-in-law, Ruby Smith, Mary Ann Weber and Aileen “Teene” Takes; two brothers-in-law, Thomas and Jim Smith; one niece, Julie Even.

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

Kenneth D. Vorwald

Kenneth D. Vorwald, 87, of New Vienna, passed away Friday, August 3, 2018, at his home.

Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, August 5, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Monday from 9-10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, August 6, 2018, St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Ralph Davis will officiate.

Ken was born January 25, 1931 in New Vienna, the son of George and Clara (Klostermann) Heying Vorwald. He married Bernice Hermsen on January 9, 1965 at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna.

Ken loved all sports, his favorite teams were the White Sox, Celtics and the Detroit Lions. He liked New Vienna softball, and in his later years he enjoyed golfing and making new friends.

Ken was a high school basketball coach for St. Boniface High School and was very successful at it. He was instrumental in starting the Heritage House, the history of the area was very important to him. He was a life-long farmer and he was proud of his heritage farm. He loved his wife and son very much and his special dog Molly.

Survivors include his wife, Bernice, son, Kevin Vorwald of New Vienna, siblings: Alice (Jim) Oberbroeckling of Coggon, in-laws: Richard (Eileen) Hermsen of Edgewood, Roger (Grace) Hermsen of Manchester, Gladys (Harry) Burkle of Dyersville, Diane Hermsen and Art Hermsen both of New Vienna and Elizabeth Deutmeyer of Petersburg.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Gregor and Anna (Klostermann) Hermsen, half-sister, Bernice Reagan, three half-brothers; Arthur, Louis and Walter Heying, in-laws: Tom Deutmeyer, Harold Hermsen, Helen (Eldon) Gaul and Joyce Hermsen.

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

Minnetta Fortner

Minnetta “Nettie” Fortner, 96, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, August 2, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by her family.

Friends may greet the family from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, August 5, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 6, at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ, 1795 Jackson St., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Rev. Pamela Starr will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Nettie was born May 2, 1922 in Dubuque, the daughter of George “Pat” and Minnie (Jonas) Avenarius. She attended Dubuque Public Schools, and married Charles “Bob” Fortner on August 9, 1947 at General Grant’s home in Galena, IL. He preceded her in death in 1996.

Nettie was very active with the Fraternal Order of Eagles, serving as Past President of REAC. She was a lifetime member of Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ. She volunteered as a Foster Grandparent at Fulton School and Young-Uns Daycare.

Nettie enjoyed shopping, playing cards, going out to eat, talking on the phone with her sisters, and taking walks with her daughter. She loved to visit her granddaughter in Phoenix, AZ, and enjoyed playing with all her great grandchildren.

Nettie is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Bob) Friedman; her grandchildren, Rob C. (Sarah) Friedman and Lisa (Jason) Steines; her great grandchildren, Wil and Wesley Friedman, and Lily and Hunter Steines; her sister, Nina Jurisic; special nieces Janeane Lee, June Crimmins, and Diane Lyons; and special nephew Gene Jurisic.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Harold “Cyril”, Milton, Gerald, Norman, and Eldon Avenarius; and her sisters Mona “Sis” Fens and Delaine Vogt.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque, and Finley Pain Clinic for their care of Nettie.

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

Robert P. Takes

Robert P. Takes, 84, of Cascade, Iowa passed away, Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at his home in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Bob may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, August 3, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m., and a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 9:00 a.m., Saturday, August 4, 2018 at the funeral Home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, August 4, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

He was born January 8, 1934 in Cascade, Iowa, son of Paul and Sybil K. (Davis) Takes. He received his education in the former St. Martin’s school in Cascade. On May 26, 1955 he was united in marriage to Rita Sadler at Sacred Heart Catholic church in Fillmore, Iowa.

He was employed at Cascade Lumber and Mfg. in Cascade for 53 years. During his retirement Bob drove for the Monastery delivering caskets. Bob was a very social, caring, genuine, hard working and selfless person.
He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa, a member of the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930, the 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573. Bob was the President of the following: Tri-State Historical Society, JC’s, Library Board, Aquin School Board, St. Martin’s School Board and the Aquin Booster Club. Bob was a dedicated life-long Chicago Bears fan.

He is survived by his wife, Rita Takes of Cascade, IA; four children, Cliff (Kathy) Takes of Anamosa, IA, Diane (Don) Stephenson of Cedar Rapids, IA, Steve Takes of Mount Vernon, IA, A.J. (& girlfriend, Lori) Takes of Cascade, IA; 4 grandchildren, Chelsea, Brittany, Robbie and Shae; 2 great grandchildren, Braylen and Emma.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one grandson, Jason Stephenson in 2005; one daughter-in-law, Chris Takes in 2009.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting that memorials be made to the Cascade Historical Society in memory of Robert P. Takes.

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

Jayne Marie Walker (Link)

“If there ever comes a day where we can’t be together, keep me in your heart. I’ll stay there forever.”

Jayne Marie Walker (Link), 93, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 17, 2017, surrounded by family.

A memorial mass to celebrate Jayne’s life will be held Saturday, August 11, 2018 at 10 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will follow in Center Grove Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. at the church until time of mass. Wherever Jayne “GG” went, she always had on something purple and her favorite purple glasses, so to honor that, the family requests that those who attend the memorial also wear something purple. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

A native of Dubuque, Jayne was born on September 16,1924, to John B Link and Elva J Roberts. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1942 and married her husband, the late Robert (Bob) Edward Walker, on July 13, 1946, thereafter becoming a proud firefighter wife and mother of three.

Jayne had an unwaveringly strong faith and for many years walked to daily morning mass through sun, snow or rain. Close to her favorite chair you would always find her daily prayer book, the morning newspaper, and a crossword puzzle book or two. During evenings you would often find her visiting with family and friends – cooking delicious homemade meals, laughing and telling stories, and enjoying a nice chilled glass of Rhine wine. Family came first, and Jayne raised her children to be humble, hardworking, appreciative individuals, traits passed down to future generations, though she did love to spoil her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Whether friend or family, Jayne welcomed all into her home and made sure you were comfortable, well-fed and never thirsty.

She is survived by children Robert (Maureen) Walker, John (Donna) Walker, and Sher Rice; grandchildren Amy (Brad) Kraft, Erin (Ben) Gardner, Sierra (Nathanael) Powell, Eric (Laurie) Miller, and Nathan (Laura) Miller; and great grandchildren Hannah and Sarah Kraft, Ella and Walker Gardner, Benjamin Powell, Ayden, Connor and Tierney Miller, and Alyvia, Aubrey and Nathan Miller, Jr.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; brother, Jim Link; sister-in-law Marlyn Link; and son-in-law, John Rice.

Jayne was always well cared for, and her family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center, as well as Dr. Kirkendall and Nurse Kate for their dedication and compassion towards Jayne through recent years and her final days.

Affectionately nicknamed “GG” by her grandchildren and great grandchildren, Jayne will be dearly missed, but continually celebrated for her unshaking, genuine love and concern for all of those close to her heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

Judy A. Brown

Judy A. Brown, 76, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, August 1, 2018, at Crestridge Nursing Home in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating Judy’s life will be held at 2 P.M., Tuesday, August 7, 2018, at South Mineral Cemetery, rural Onslow, Iowa. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 7, 2018, from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

Judy Amanda Eye was born on January 28, 1942 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Clifford Edward and Faye Arlene (Moore) Eye. She grew up in Maquoketa and married James Lee Brown on November 12, 1960 in Dubuque, Iowa.

Judy had worked at Collis Company in Clinton, Iowa as a machine operator for 22 years until retirement. She enjoyed puzzles, camping, reading, taking walks, crocheting, going on trips, and relaxing on her swing. She was very devoted to her family.

Those left to honor Judy’s memory include her husband, James “Jim” Brown of Delmar, IA; sons, Dwayne Brown of Maquoketa, IA, and Michael Brown of Maquoketa, IA; a sister, Peggy Miller of Maquoketa, IA; 5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; and a son-in-law, Brian Keeney of Maquoketa, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Larry and William “Bill” Eye, a daughter Pamela Lynn Keeney, and a granddaughter Alexandra Michelle Brown.

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

Jane Ellen (Turner) Kouba

Jane Ellen (Turner) Kouba, 72, of Dubuque died Saturday, July 28, 2018 at home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Visitation will be held Thursday August 2,2018 at Summit Congregational United Church of Christ from 9:00 to 11:15 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m.

Jane was born September 13, 1945 in Aurora, Ill., daughter of Harry and Sylvia (Klaub) Turner. On January 15, 1998 she married Steven Bruse in Dubuque.

Jane was passionate about music and she sang, played the piano and viola. She loved her family, reading, gardening, and storytelling. She loved having fun and making people laugh. She received her BA in contemporary literature from the University of Dubuque. For the past 20 plus years she was the pianist for Summit Congregational UCC.

She is survived by her husband, Steven Bruse; three children, Peter Schilling, Charles (Kimberly) Schilling and Mark Yamashita, her sister Mary (George) Cayro, three step children, Cherie (Don) Regan, Kelly (Rob) Liddle, and Shanon (Christy) Bruse; 13 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Dr. J. Robert Turner and Charles Turner.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

A Jane Kouba memorial fund has been established.
Thanks to all her amazing support systems: family, church, medical, and friends.

Robert Phillips Stokesberry

Robert Phillips “Bob” Stokesberry, 82, of Otter Creek, Iowa passed away Monday July 30, 2018.
Mass of Christian burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, August 4, 2018 at Saint Lawrence Catholic Church, Otter Creek with Fr. Austin Wilker officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors accorded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday at the church. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.

Bob was born on October 29, 1935 in Dubuque the son of Chris and Mary (Phillips) Stokesberry. He graduated from Loras Academy in 1953 and entered the US Army in December of 1954. He served in the 82nd Air born until Sept. 1956. On November 26, 1960 he married JoAnn Even at Saint Anthony Catholic Church in Dubuque. He farmed up until 1969 when he became a meat inspector for the US Department of Agriculture until his retirement in January of 1995. He was a member of the American Legion Post #528 in Cascade and served as Sargent of Arms.

He enjoyed boating on the Mississippi, riding his Gold Wing, and helping care for the church cemetery. Some of his greatest pleasures were attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.

He is survived by his wife JoAnn a daughter Susan Siegwarth, a son in law Doug Biehl, grandchildren Johnny and Lexie Biehl, and Jed and Marcus Siegwarth.

He was preceded in death by a son Chris on July 7, 1987, a daughter Cheryl on January 18, 2014, his parents Chris and Mary, and a sister Mary Clare Stokesberry.

In lieu of flowers memorial may be given to the Saint Lawrence Cemetery Fund.

Alfred J. Kerkenbush

Alfred J. Kerkenbush, age 93, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:50 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Al’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, August 3, 2018, at St. Columbkille’s Church, 1230 Rush Street, with Rev. Thomas J. McDermott officiating. To celebrate Al’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 2, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish wake service held at 4:30 p.m. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens, where full military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Al was born on May 15, 1925, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, son of William L. and Adeline (Meoska) Kerkenbush.

Alfred Kerkenbush died peacefully with his brother, Roger, by his side . He was a fiercely loyal man deeply dedicated to his family and Catholic faith. Coming from modest beginnings, the eldest boy in a family of 7 hailing from Tennyson, Wisconsin. He answered his call to service in World War II as a member of the U.S Navy. He then met and married Erma Margan, his devoted and loving wife of 63 years before her passing in 2010. Al and Erma had 7 children together (Shirley, Tommy, Patty, Denise, Donna, Julie and Sarah). While Tommy passed in his infancy, the six girls grew to be beautiful adults, each with families of their own totaling 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Al’s daughters and other family members were in Dubuque when he passed. He worked at the Dubuque Packing House, retiring after over 40 years of service. He enjoyed time on and near the Mississippi whether it was helping to build and maintain The Margan Family Cottage, driving his speedboat, teaching all his girls to water ski or fishing on her shores. He lived in Dubuque for 70 years, spending most of those, raising his family on Levi Street where he enjoyed time outside feeding and watching the birds, in his workshop and doing projects around the house. He was an avid CUBS fan! He was often heard, especially in his later years, expressing deep gratitude for all the gifts God bestowed upon him. He is so deeply loved by so many. He was truly the rock upon which his family was built. He will be dearly missed. His family will forever be grateful for his love as that was one thing that never wavered as life presented its many challenges. Rest In Peace Dad, Brother, Grandpa, Great Grandpa and Uncle. We love and thank you.

Those left to cherish Al’s memory include

his 6 daughters,
Shirley (John) Copeland, Sumter, SC,
Patricia “Patti Jo” Hodge, Akron, OH,
Denise (David) Parochetti, LeClaire, IA,
Donna (Michael) O’Brien, McHenry, IL,
Julie Stumpf, Iowa City, IA
and Sara (Eric) Fisher, Ridgecrest, CA;

11 grandchildren,
Laura Bellcase, Craig (Kristin) Parisot, Rachel Stumpf, Calla (Matt) Parochetti-Poulter, Kyle Parochetti, Alyssa (Brian) Jones, Megan Hodge, Aaron and Alex O’Brien, and Ivan and Shane Fisher;

6 great-grandchildren,
Leah, Jake, Jackson, Conner, Avery and Cora;

and his siblings,
Roger (Frankie) Kerkenbush, Monroe, MI
and Marie Capesius, Key West, IA.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Erma Kerkenbush; a son, Thomas “Tommy” Kerkenbush; a granddaughter, Samantha Stumpf; 3 sisters, Virginia “Ginny” (Jim) Droessler, Eileen (Harlan) Droeszler and Betty (Calvin) Lindecker; a brother, Gerald “Gerry” Kerkenbush; and a brother-in-law, Paul Capesius.

Al’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital, and Eagle Point Place, for all of their wonderful care and support during these difficult days.

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