Obituaries Archive

Rhonda Feldman

Rhonda “Sue” Feldman, 62, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, July 23, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by her loving family.

According to her wishes, services will be private for the family. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road is assisting the family.

Sue was born April 18, 1956 in Dubuque, the daughter of Donald and Shirley Ann (Larkin) Feldman.

Sue is survived by her dad, Donald, of Dubuque; her siblings; Londie Brauer, and Kim Feldman, both of Dubuque, Gina (Mark) Truninger of Clinton, Iowa, Doug (Tanya) Feldman of Des Moines, Iowa, Todd (Dawn) Feldman of Omaha, NE, Tammy (Curtis) DeWulf, of Dubuque, and Tracy Feldman of Madison, WI; many nieces and nephews; and her family dog, Bubbles.

She was preceded in death by her mom, Shirley; her sister, Heather; and two brothers; John in infancy and Timm “T.D.”

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

John J. Rokusek

John J. “Jack” Rokusek, 86, of Dubuque passed away July 23, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Trinity Catholic Church, with Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded. Friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Friday July 27th at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road where there will be a wake service at 6:30 p.m.

John was born December 29, 1931, in Dubuque, son of Johnny and Lucille (Williams) Rokusek. He married Julitta “Jill” Slaats, July 5, 1952, enjoying 66 years together. They were the proud parents of three daughters, Jan, Jeralyn “Jeri” and Jolene and one son, Jay. John was a devoted, loving and inspiring husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend who touched thousands of people’s lives with his great sense of humor, generous spirit, and positive disposition.

He graduated from the former Loras Academy in 1949 and received a Business Degree at the former Bayless Business College in1951.

In 1952 he was inducted into the Korean War. He served as an instructor and made the rank of Sargent First Class in his two-year tender. He was honorably discharged in 1954.

For 30 years of his professional career John worked as a Supervisor in the Finance Division of John Deere Dubuque Works until his retirement in 1981. After retirement he was a part time courier at the former First National Bank for ten years.

John was a faithful member of Holy Spirit-Holy Trinity Catholic Church, frequently volunteering to do construction and maintenance in the church and school and was amongst the first to be installed as a Eucharistic Minister. His passion for woodworking led him to build homes, boats and many other wood crafts. He delighted in spending time on the river and was an avid athlete especially enjoying bowling, softball, horseshoe, and tennis. He also loved music and played the accordion and organ. John was truly a “Jack of all trades”, frequently lending his time and talents to many relatives and friends. His selfless giving and fun spirit was rewarded by a lifetime of being surrounded by exceptional neighbors, family and friends who extended many acts of kindness and help to John.

Surviving is his wife, Julitta “Jill” Rokusek, of Dubuque; daughters, Jan Mussmann, of Waterloo, IA, Jeri (Terry) Noonan, of Iowa City, IA, and Jolene (Dave) Goedken, of Potosi, WI; grandchildren, Michelle and Angie Spadin and Casey Noonan; great-grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary Friedley; and many first cousins who were like brothers and sisters to him.

He was preceded in death by a son, Jay J. Rokusek, in 1986; parents, Johnny J. and Lucille Rokusek; a brother and sister-in-law, Cletus and Germaine Rokusek; mother and father-in-law, Oscar and Florence Slaats; and brother-in-laws Guerdon Slaats and Jerry Kuepers.

John’s family wishes to thank the teams of caregivers at Oak Park Place, Medical Associates, Stonehill Health Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their dedicated service.

Family requests no flowers. A John J. Rokusek Memorial Fund has been established. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hskfh.com.

Vera J. Finzel

Vera J. Finzel, 74, of Hopkinton, Iowa, formerly of Farley and Epworth, Iowa passed away Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Regional Medical Center in Manchester, Iowa.

Friends & relatives of Vera may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, July 26, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a Memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. with Jenny Hefel officating.

She was born September 15, 1943 in Strawberry Point, Iowa, daughter of Hiram and Gladys (Whitelock) Pierce. She graduated from Guttenberg High School in Guttenberg, Iowa.

On January 11, 1964 she was united in marriage to Sylvester “Butch” Finzel, they later divorced. She met and spent the remaining time with her longtime partner Darwin Goeschel. She worked at the Dubuque Greyhound Park and Casino and retired in 2005.

Vera loved spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed spending time traveling and collecting porcelain dolls.

She is survived by her longtime partner Darwin Goeschel of Hopkinton, IA; five children, Lynn Finzel of Elkader, IA, Lavern “Buddy” (DeAnn) Finzel of Cascade, IA, Alan “A.J.” (Sara) Finzel of New Vienna, IA, John (Tracy) Finzel and Travis (Angie) Finzel both of Cascade, IA; 14 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; her former husband, Sylvester “Butch” Finzel of Cascade, IA; one sister, Ladonna (Mike) Loetz of Colesburg, IA; two sisters-in-law, Sandy Pierce of Guttenberg, IA and Pat Pierce of Epworth, IA; two brothers-in-law, Dave Sweet of Giard, IA and Ed Wall of Epworth, IA and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; five sisters, Martha Pierce in infancy, Myrtle Kruse, Jane Sweet, Jean Wall and Loretta (Rita) Hefel; six brothers, Robert “Bob” , William “Bill”, Thomas, Dick, Jerry and Perry Pierce.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established in memory of Vera J. Finzel.

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

Rita A. Petersen

Rita A. Petersen, 79, of Dubuque passed away Monday, July 23, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

Services will be at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, July 26, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, with Deacon Paul Peckosh officiating. Friends may greet the family from 3 to 5 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Rita was born May 27, 1939 in Merrill, WI to D.B. and Margaret (Rivard) Cardinal. She graduated from Rock Island Alleman High School in June 1957. She met the love of her life, Gerald R. Petersen, and they married September 19, 1959. He preceded her in death.

She trained as an X-Ray Technician, and then later worked at St. Anthony’s Hospital in Rock Island, IL. Later she was a stay at home mother to their four children.

Rita loved to go out to eat, do circle word puzzles, and enjoyed movies and reality TV; but most of all, Rita’s family was everything to her. She especially loved it when the whole family was together for holidays and special events.

She was a long time member of St. Raphael Cathedral.

She is survived by her 4 children, Teresa Petersen, Mary (Jeff) Melssen, both of Dubuque, Jim (Jenn) Petersen, of Bettendorf, IA, and John (Stephanie Schoeller) Petersen, of Ames, IA; four grandchildren, Mallory Petersen and Marqui Petersen both of Iowa City, Shelby Melssen and Jacob Melssen, both of Dubuque.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

The family wishes to thank the Doctors, Nurses, and Staff at Mercy Medical Center Cardiovascular Unit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

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

John D. Feller

John D. Feller, 72, of Dubuque, was called home by His Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, July 22, 2018, at home surrounded by his loving wife & children.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 26, at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, 2843 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. until the time of service. Tom Dougherty will officiate. Burial will be in Asbury Cemetery. Friends may also greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 25, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd.

John was born September 9, 1945 in Dubuque, the son of John L. and Marian (Jungk) Feller. He attended Dubuque Senior High School, where he met the love of his life, Donna Driscoll. After graduation in 1965, the high school sweethearts married on June 17, 1967 at St. Mary Catholic Church.

John was employed at the Dubuque Packing Company, and at Lewis Systems (later Menasha Corp.) until his retirement.

He was a longtime member of Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel, where he was active with the audio recordings and nametags ministries. He loved to study the Bible and share the Lord’s word. There was nothing that John couldn’t fix-he was an excellent handyman. He enjoyed woodworking, carving, and whittling. John was a HAM radio operator, and taught Morse Code to his HAM radio club. Camping trips all over the U.S. and Canada were a regular summer vacation, and they included the whole family. John was a kind, gentle, and loving husband, father, and grandfather who loved to spend time with his family and granddaughters.

John is survived by his wife Donna, of Dubuque; two children, Angie (Don) Strohmeyer and John J. Feller, both of Dubuque; two very special granddaughters, Molly Strohmeyer and Laura Feller; four sisters, Marilyn Wasmundt of Dubuque, Karen (James) Wieland of Rock Island, IL, Linda (Randy) Prater of Loveland, CO, and Sue Feller of Berthoud, CO; his brother, Richard (Sharon) Feller of Dubuque; two sisters-in-law, Patty Feller of Dubuque and Laura Feller of Clinton, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Lori Feller; two brothers, Paul and Daniel Feller; his sister-in-law, Kathy (Driscoll) Runde; and his brother-in-law, Don Wasmundt.

Memorials may be made to the John D. Feller Memorial Fund for later donation to his favorite charities.

John’s family would like to thank his longtime physician, Dr. Longo; Dr. Liaboe and his staff; Dr. Ringold and his staff; Dr. Whalen; and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Betsy, for all their love and care.

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

Larry W. Bockenstedt

Larry W. Bockenstedt, 68 of Earlville passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2018, as the result of a sudden illness.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 24, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Wednesday from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 25, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Earlville, with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate. Military honors will be accorded.

Larry was born December 1, 1949 to William and Alice (Helle) Bockenstedt. Larry was raised west of Manchester and attended West Delaware High School. Larry served in the National Guard.

On May 26, 1973 Larry married Diane Clemen at the St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville. They were blessed with five children in this union. Together they farmed west of Manchester. In 1979 they moved to their farm in Earlville where they currently reside. Farming was Larry’s passion and he loved sharing that with his family. He also enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife, Diane, their children: Brian, Pat and Mark Bockenstedt all of Earlville, Michelle (Chuck) Funke of Dyersville, Mitchell (Catherine) Bockenstedt of Brooklyn, IA, six grandchildren: Megan, Ryan, and Leah Funke, Hayden, Tristan and Noah Bockenstedt, sister, Susan (Jerry) Nefzger of Delhi, brother, Ronald (Shellie) Bockenstedt of Manchester, brothers in law: Ronald (Joan) Ronnebaum of Earlville, Donald Clemen, Loras Clemen both of Dyersville, sisters-in-law: Clara Mae Hoeger, Mary Jane Clemen, Jean (Alan) Roling, and Betty Clemen all of Dyersville.

He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Arnold and Rosella Clemen, a sister Jeanna Ronnebaum, brothers-in-law, Frank Hoeger, Jerome Clemen, Ralph (Geri Kay) Clemen, and his sister-in-law, Theresa Clemen.

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

Velma M. Coohey

Velma M. Coohey, 83, of Dubuque died Friday, July 20, 2018. Visitation will be held from 3 to 8 pm Tuesday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be held 10 am Wednesday at St. Peter Lutheran Church where visitation will also be held Wednesday from 9 to 9:45 am. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Velma was born April 8, 1935 in Manchester, Iowa, daughter of Herman and Velma (Hugh) Reth. She graduated from Coggan High School in 1952.

On July 23, 1957, she married John “Jack” Coohey at St. Martins Church, Cascade. He preceded her in death on May 16, 1995.

Velma loved to sew and garden. She was an avid Stock car and Nascar Fan with Mark Martin being her favorite. Velma would never turn down a good game of Yahtzee or “May I”. She also loved to camp and fish with her family. She treasured time spent with family especially Her great grandchildren.

She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church where she was a Stephen’s Minister for many years. Attending Church was important to her.

She is survived by a daughter, Denise (Steve) Goedken; a son, Steve (Sue) Coohey; four grandchildren, Nick (Tiffany), Andy (Chelsy), and Cody Goedken and Madison Coohey; and three great grandchildren, Jack, Evie and Finn Goedken; all of Dubuque.

She is also survived by three siblings, Evonne (Harold) Wurst of Marion, Iowa, Mary (Ralph) Roling of Dubuque and Ken Reth of Cedar Rapids; brothers and sisters in law, Joyce Coohey, Pat and Carol Coohey, Rose and Denny Topping, Mike and Sandy Coohey, all of Dubuque and Margie and Steve Frye of Cuba City; and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; a granddaughter, Abby Goedken in 1994; brother in law, Donnie Coohey; nephews, Mike Wurst and Kevin Coohey; and a niece, Jackie Scholbrock.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and Sunset Park Place Memory Care for their kind and compassionate care.

Merlin P. Kaiser

Merlin P. “Mert” Kaiser, 86, of Dubuque died Thursday, July 19, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center surrounded by his children. Visitation will be from 3 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the Church of the Resurrection. Entombment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Mert was born May 26, 1932 in Sylvia Switch, Iowa, son of Gerhard and Lorena (Brink) Kaiser. He served in the US Naval Reserve from 1950 to 1958.

On May 27, 1952, he married Jane Reinecke at St. Thomas Church in Potosi, Wisconsin.

Mert worked as a supervisor for The Dubuque Packing Co. and FDL foods for 44 years before his retirement in 1994. After his retirement, he worked part time at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory.

He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection where he served as an usher for many years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and was inducted into the Dubuque Fast Pitch Softball Hall of Fame.

Playing baseball was an important part of Mert’s early life as he continued to play and umpire softball as long as he could. He was an avid lover of nature and the outdoors, spending time on family mushroom hunts, and golfing and fishing trips were always highlights.

Mert’s many lifelong friendships and the stories that accompanied them are cherished. His face always lit up with visits from his family, especially his grand and great-grandchildren and time with his dog, Chloe. A highlight of his later life was the privilege of going on an Honor Flight to Washington DC.

Mert is survived by five children, Connie (Terry) Hutchcroft of Dubuque, Gary (Wanda) Kaiser of Dubuque, Ken (Cheryl “Charlie”) Kaiser of Dubuque, Laurie (Jeff) Knott of Marion, Iowa; and Greg Kaiser of Dubuque; 14 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters in law, Evelyn and Lucille Kaiser, Mary Langkamp, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Jane; parents, Gerhard Kaiser and Lorena (Brink) Kaiser Droessler and step father, Henry Droessler; two brothers, Vince and Jerry Kaiser; three sisters, Esther Busch, Sr. Helen Kaiser and Lillian Salzmann; brothers in law, Joe Salzmann, Fran Busch, Bill Reinecke and LeRoy Langkamp; two grandsons, Justin (J.T.) Kaiser and Gaylin Leirmoe and two great grandsons, Jack and Gage Leirmoe.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mert Kaiser Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Oak Park, and all of the other doctors, nurses and health care professionals who helped with Mert’s care.

Clara M. Weber Hess Tobin

Clara M. Weber Hess Tobin, 88, of Worthington passed away Thursday, July 19, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 am, Monday, July 23, 2018, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am Monday, July 23, 2018, at St. Paul Catholic Church in Worthington with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Clara Mae was born on May 5, 1930, in Chadron, NE the daughter of Herman and Leona (Sherlock) Weber. She married Henry Hess at St. Paul’s Church in Worthington, and he died March 3, 1974. She later married Richard Tobin in 1977. Clara was a terrific cook, liked taking care of her flowers and enjoyed a good game of euchre. Above all she loved spending time with her family.

Survivors include her children: Michael Hess of Worthington, LuAnn (Pat) Putz of Dyersville and Kenneth Hess of Prairie du Chien, WI, daughter-in-law, Dianne Hess of Dyersville, grandchildren: David Hess, Casey (Becky) Hess, Jennifer (Brian) Akerberg; Kurt (Angie) Mullen, Joe (Elizabeth) Mullen; Joshua Hess, Abby (Luke) Wilgenbusch; Nicole, Brad, Jason Hess, 12 great-grandchildren, siblings: Bernadette Weber and Richard (Barb) Weber and Betty Weber all of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husbands, son, Pat Hess, daughter-in-law, Wendy Hess, great-grandchild, Jayden Wilgenbusch, and seven siblings.

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

Loras F. Manders

Loras Francis Manders, 80, of St. Catherine’s Iowa went to be with the Lord on Monday July 16th, 2018 while driving his four-wheeler on the family farm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 24th, 2018 at St. Catherine Catholic Church with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday, July 23rd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 3:00 p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church until time of mass.

Loras was born on February 3rd 1938. He is the son of Raymond and Gertrude Manders. He married the love of his life Barbara Mitchell on July 11th 1959, celebrating 59 years this July.

A humble, faith filled man who wore many hats, Loras never stopped learning. He enjoyed reading, playing piano and writing. Loras took pride in farming with his brother and best friend Roger Manders, leaving a legacy of carrying on the century family farm. He was a huge family man who loved family gatherings, an active member of the community and church and found much joy singing in the choir.

He is survived by his wife and their five children, Martin (Tressa) Manders, JoAnn (Kevin) Herrig, Linda (Rick Heiar) Manders, Jeff (Dawn) Manders, Richard (Cindy) Manders; Grandchildren, Kyle (Nicole) Manders, Trisha (Dan) Petersen, Bethany Manders, Kristin Manders, Chad Herrig, Jayden (Kassy) Herrig, Abbey (Casey) Skrivseth, Ashley (Dave Bake) Wiley, Taylor (Joe Goris) Manders, Logan Manders, Vincent Manders, Monica Manders, Danny Manders; 18 great grandchildren.

Also survived by his sister Betty (Robert) Jaeger and brother Roger (Gail Michels) Manders, sister-in-law Belva (Jeannie) Mitchell and brother-in-law Pete (Julie) Mitchell, along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Gertrude and Raymond Manders, father-in-law Loras Mitchell, mother-in-law Ann Mitchell, sister-in-law Linda Manders and brother-in-law Darwin Mitchell.

Rest in peace gentle servant of God.

Irmagene R. Pfiffner

Irmagene R. ‘Irma’ Pfiffner, 87, of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 23, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., where friends may greet the family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass. Rev. Andy Upah will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. Friends may also greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 22, at Hoffmann Schneider and Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road where there will be a prayer service at 7 p.m.

Irma was born July 13, 1931 in Dickeyville, WI, daughter of Philip and Stella (Digmann) Ginter. She married Thomas D. Pfiffner, July 6, 1957 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Dubuque. 

She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy in 1949. In her early years, Irma worked at the First National Bank and Nurre Glass Co. Later, she went to work at the West Dubuque Tap, where she was instrumental in the invention of the “Magic Muffin“. For 19 years, Irma was a cook for the Sisters of the Visitation, until her retirement at age 81.

Irma was an active member of Resurrection Parish, where she was a member of the Cursillo team, CEW team, Teens Encounter Christ, served on the Liturgy Committee and Ladies of the Altar, volunteered at Resurrection School, and taught CCD at-home program. She was a devoted homemaker and excellent baker. She especially loved spending time with her family.  

Surviving are her husband, Tom; a daughter, Mary Ellen (Jerry) Gogel, of Bettendorf, IA; a son Tom M. (Sheila O’Donoghue) Pfiffner, of Chicago, IL; two grandchildren, David Lincoln and Max Gogel; her sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Mary Ann Ginter, Jerry (Mert) Pfiffner, Carol Hannan, Connie Pfiffner, and Mary Kay (Don) Sisler; and many nieces and nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Joe and Vince Ginter and two sisters, Priscilla “Toots” Bahl and Maleta “Skeets” Dietz.

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

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at both Stonehill Care Center and the Hospice of Dubuque for their care and devotion. 

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

Sister Mary Sharon Kelchen, PBVM

Sister Mary Sharon Kelchen, PBVM, 72, died on Thursday, July 19, 2018 at Mount Loretto Motherhouse, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque IA.

Funeral Services will be Monday, July 23, 2018 at 10:30 am at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, with burial in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West. Friends may call from 1:30 – 6:00 pm on Sunday, July 22, 2018 at Sacred Heart Chapel, where there will be a vigil service at 3:30 pm. The Leonard Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Sister Sharon, daughter of Lawrence and Florence (Hosch) Kelchen, was born Donna Mae Kelchen on May 8, 1946, in Manchester, IA. She entered the Sisters of the Presentation in September 1964 and professed her perpetual vows on August 23, 1970.

She received a BA from Clarke College, Dubuque. Sister Sharon’s ministries took her to Farley, Bankston, Mason City, Sheldon, Key West, Algona, and Storm Lake, all in Iowa, where she taught music. She later became principal in Farley and Storm Lake and was the liturgy coordinator at Our Lady of Guadalupe parish in Chicago, IL. She served as house coordinator at Mt. Loretto from 1993-2003. In 2004, Sister Sharon began as minister of care in St. Elizabeth Pastorate, where she found herself ministering, visiting and praying with grandparents of children she previously taught.

She enjoyed golfing, reading, playing cards and baking.

Surviving are her sisters, Dorie Kelchen, Kay (Paul) Ostwinkle, Karen (Ken) Tobin, Jean (Dennis) Loesche and Chris (Dean) Klosterman and her brothers, Joe (Susan) Kelchen and James (Mary) Kelchen, many nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 54 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Larry, and brother-in-law Paul Pheles.

A special thank you to Dr. Sara Loetscher, the staff at Mercy Hospital and Stone Hill Care Facility and Mount Loretto nursing staff for the love and care they provided Sister Sharon.

Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dubuquepresentations.org.

Merle J. Krapfl

Merle J. Krapfl, 89, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at 3:30 a.m. at his home in Dyersville, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Merle may call from 4 to 8 p.m., Friday, July 20, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Saturday at the Reiff Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial for Merle will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 21, 2018 at Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Dennis Quint presiding. Burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa.

Merle was born on March 24, 1929 in Dyersville, Iowa, son of Leonard and Clara (Buenker) Krapfl. He received his education from St. Francis Xavier School in Dyersville, IA. He was united in marriage to Madonna T. “Donna” Esch on June 30, 1952 at Basilica St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, IA. She preceded him in death on September 21, 2017.
He was employed as a mechanic at Tauke Implement and later at Helle Implement in Dyersville, Iowa until his retirement.

He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, Iowa. He enjoyed fishing and camping. He especially enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by four children, Gary Krapfl of Dyersville, IA, David (Kathy) Krapfl of Geneseo, IL, Dan Krapfl of Dyersville, IA and Ann Fessler of Durango, IA; 8 grandchildren; four siblings, Floyd (Carol) Krapfl and John (Velma) Krapfl both of Dyersville, IA, his sister, Joan (Ralph) Werner of Strawberry Point, IA and Bill Krapfl of New Vienna, IA; one sister-in-law, Julie White of Maquoketa, IA; one brother-in-law, Phil (Nikki) Manternach of Cascade, IA.

He was also preceded in death by his parents, one son-in-law, Mike Fessler; one sister, Arlene (Jim) Tauke; five sisters-in-law, Kay Ament, Mary Williamson, Patricia Billmeyer, Ellen Manternach and Karen Krapfl; three brothers-in-law, Nick Esch, Earl Brimeyer and Ken White.

The family of Merle would like to thank Dr. Ridgely, Hospice of Dubuque, Julie Reicher and Cookie Sherrman for all the wonderful care and support.

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

John L. Kennedy

John L. “Jack” Kennedy, 88, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at 12:20 a.m. at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, Iowa. He was a man who loved life so much he was afraid to let go.

Friends & relatives of Jack may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Sunday, July 22, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. They may also call after 9 a.m., Monday, July 23, 2018 at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 23, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Epworth John White American Legion Post #650.

He was born April 12, 1930 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of George and Lillian (Haigh) Kennedy. He attended Prescott and Jefferson School in Dubuque, Iowa. On November 27, 1948 he was united in marriage to May Lou “Moomie” Schmitt at the Priest house in Galena, Illinois.

He was employed at the former Dubuque Packing Company until his retirement in 1980 and a member of International Union of Operating Engineers.

He was an avid bowler, a member of the 700 club and was very proud to have won a National Bowling Tournament. Jack loved the great outdoors! He enjoyed fishing, hunting, morel and agates searching, camping, spending time with family and friends singing around a campfire.

He was an army veteran having served in the Army in Germany during World War II; he later served in the Army National Guard unit.

He is survived by his wife May Lou “Moomie” Kennedy of Epworth, eight children, Jean (Steve) Ernst of Dubuque, Lily (Robert) Lange of Asbury, Mary Lou (Bill) Graham of Kingston, Ontario, Canada, Dan Kennedy of Dubuque, Linda (Kevin) Goerdt, Lori (Phil) Kramer both of Epworth, Robert (Rianne) Kennedy of Dubuque, Tom Kennedy of Epworth; two daughters-in-law, RaeAnn Kennedy of Dubuque, and Val Grimm Kennedy of Farley; 26 grandchildren, 40 great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; one sister, Joan (Terry) Vosberg of Hazel Green, WI; two brothers, Milton “Sonny” (Rayetta) Gassman of Dubuque and Terry (Tammie) Gassman of Galena, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sons, John L. Kennedy II October 1984, Michael Kennedy on March 1990 and James A. Kennedy in February 1979; one daughter-in-law, Nancy Kennedy, four brothers, Robert D. Kennedy, George (LaVonne) Kennedy, Jerry (Joyce) Kennedy, Jim (Dean) Kennedy; two sisters, Jean (Duane) Langtimm and Juanita (Leo) Oswald.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care and support they gave to Jack.

In lieu of flowers a John L. Kennedy Memorial fund has been established to purchase a bench to go on the Heritage Trail in memory of him.

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

Madonna L. Ludovissy

Madonna L. Ludovissy, age 83, of North Buena Vista, Iowa, was called home peacefully at 6:10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, 2018, at home, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Madonna’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, July 21, 2018, at Immaculate Conception Church, North Buena Vista, with Rev. Marvin J. Bries officiating. To celebrate Madonna’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, July 20, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, and from 10:00 a.m., until the time of services at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, July 21, 2018, at Immaculate Conception Church. Burial will be in Immaculate Conception Cemetery.

Madonna was born on December 5, 1934, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, daughter of Aloysius and Evelyn (Felder) Riniker.

Madonna was born and raised in Buenie, surrounded by her family and friends daily all while learning the most important values in life. She would eventually cross paths with her soul-mate, Clarence C. Ludovissy, and the couple was united in marriage on September 21, 1954, at Immaculate Conception Church in North Buena Vista. The two were blessed with 58 wonderful years together, and 8 adored children, before he was called home ahead of her on December 26, 2012. Madonna was a loving and devoted full-time wife and mother, who took meticulous care of her family and their home. Madonna had a strong work ethic, and after the children were raised and out on their own, she would put her numerous talents to good use outside of the home at many community establishments and mainstays. Madonna’s faith was a very important aspect of her life and was constantly on display for all to see. She was a life-long member of the Immaculate Conception Church and their Rosary Society; and was also a determined staple in the parish, always lending a hand whenever possible. In her free time, Madonna could easily be found out in the yard tending to her colorful flower gardens on the farm, heading to the church on Tuesdays to work on her next quilting or craft project, or occasionally even trying her luck with the “one-armed bandits” at the local casinos. Madonna was well known for her “heavy foot” and undeniable love of car rides and traveling. If anyone was heading out on a trip, she always volunteered without hesitation to jump in the car and eagerly ride along. She was also a joy-filled person, and without a doubt, her greatest joyful moments came during the opportunities she was able to spend time with her family, especially if the grandchildren and great-grandchildren were in the mix somewhere. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our wonderful mom, grandma, great-grandma, great-great grandma, sister and friend, but we know that she is now happily reunited with her beloved husband, Clarence, their son, Dana, and all of their family members who’ve been called home ahead of them. We will miss her more than words could ever possibly convey, but we are forever grateful for the 83 years the Lord was kind enough to share Madonna with us, and the beautiful memories she leaves behind.

Those left to cherish Madonna’s memory include

her children,
Dale (Kathy) Ludovissy, Dubuque, IA,
Robin (Rose) Ludovissy, Holy Cross, IA,
Neal (Sandy) Ludovissy, Peosta, IA,
Jan Ludovissy, Dubuque, IA,
Terry Ludovissy, Guttenberg, IA,
Dawn (Scott) Ferguson, Center Point, IA
and Denise (Colin) Grafft, Solon, IA;

her 16 grandchildren,
Danielle (Jason) Sadewasser, Theresa Ludovissy, Joe (Chris) Dudek, Melissa (Jeff) Domeyer, Tracy (Terry Gotto) Ludovissy, Heidi (Nick) Gansen, Joe Ludovissy, Jon Ludovissy, Levi Ludovissy, Justin (Melissa) Ludovissy, Truman Ferguson, Samantha (Jared Jirak) Ferguson, Andrea Ferguson, Docker Ferguson, Finnegan Grafft and Blake Grafft;

20 great-grandchildren,
Ethan and Natalia Sadewasser, Cassandra Siegert, Michaela and Katelyn Ward, Will, Jake, Keeley and Elijah Hammel, Anthony Dudek, Quinton Kelley, Cole, Evan and Cooper Domeyer, Caden, Riley and Max Gotto, Delila Ludovissy and Baylen and Kylie Ludovissy;

2 great-great-grandchildren,
Jessie Johnson and Croix Kaiser;

her sisters,
Joanne Hefel, North Buena Vista, IA,
Jeanette Ludovissy, North Buena Vista, IA
and LaVonne Coyle, Epworth, IA;

and her sisters-in-law,
Joan Riniker, Dubuque, IA,
Mary Engling, North Buena Vista, IA,
Louise Ludovissy, Guttenberg, IA
and Laurie Ludovissy, North Buena Vista, IA.

Madonna was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Clarence Ludovissy; a son, Dana Ludovissy; 2 sisters, Geraldine (Tom) Hefel and Ivanelle (Celestine) Ludovissy, 2 brothers, Walter Frank (Judy) Riniker, and Aloysius “Junior” Riniker; 6 brothers-in-law, Mickey Hefel, Merlin Ludovissy, Robert “Bob” Coyle, Ronald Engling, Francis “Duke” Ludovissy and Walter Ludovissy; and a sister-in-law, Kathy Ludovissy.

The family would like to send their sincerest appreciation to Mary Eulberg and her staff at River Living Center; all the care providers at the Guttenberg Cornerstone Family Practice and Hospital; to Dr. Kyle Brown and Roxanne at UIHC; and a special thank you to Mary Engling for all of her love and care over the years.

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