Obituaries Archive

Sally L. Cashman

Sally L. Cashman, age 81, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 11:30 p.m., on Saturday, April 28, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Sally’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Thursday, May 3, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Church, 1425 Iowa Street. To celebrate Sally’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Sally was born on February 11, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Gregory and Lucille (Fath) Meyer.

Sally was a lifelong Dubuquer, who worked at the Dubuque Packing Company for a couple of years until she finally met her soul-mate, Cletus “Blackie” Cashman, and they would soon begin their own family together. They were united in marriage on June 9, 1956, at St. Patrick’s Church, and the two were truly blessed with 61 years together, and 6 absolutely adored children. Sally undeniably embraced her full-time role as wife, mother and homemaker, and everyone close to her whom she spent her entire life nurturing will always remember all of the committed love and devotion she so naturally spread, not only upon them, but also upon so many others throughout the world around her. In her free time, Sally enjoyed grabbing her bingo dauber and spending an evening with her sisters, sitting down to watch her Cubbies take the field, trying her luck around the card table with Sr. Dorothy and her card club friends all while sharing her witty sense of humor in between shuffles, or even the countless lazy days of relaxing out at Lake Delhi for over 30 years while surrounded by family and friends. Sally was a friendly, honest and faith filled woman who continually made a positive impact on the world around her. Her absence from our physical lives today leaves a terrible ache within our hearts and minds which only time and faith could ever begin to heal; but we are forever grateful for the treasured memories she leaves behind and find comfort in knowing that she’s once again reunited with her son, Gary, and they are now able to catch up on their new eternal perfect world and can wait patiently together for us all to join them in our time. We miss you Sally, we love you deeply and dearly and thank you very much for the wonderful example you lived while the Lord was kind enough to share you with us for 81 years.

Those left to cherish Sally’s memory include

her husband,
Cletus Cashman, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Gail (Carl) Anderson, Little Rock, AR,
Gregory (Ann) Cashman, Bernard, IA,
Guy (Julia) Cashman, Columbia, MO,
Grant Cashman, Dubuque, IA
and Gina (Rob) Wildman, Potosi, WI;

9 grandchildren,
Nicole (Duane), Sarah Beth (Casey), Laura (Adam), Mary (Tony), Justin (Ashley), Jesse, Taylor, Kyle (Leah) and Spencer;

4 great-grandchildren;

and her sisters,
Sandy Henry, Dubuque, IA
and Sue (John) White, Dubuque, IA.

Sally was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Gary Cashman; a daughter-in-law, Deborah Cashman; and a brother-in-law, John Henry.

Sally’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Finley Hospital for their outstanding care of Sally, and her entire family.

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

Steven Werner

Steven “Steve” Werner, 34, of Dubuque, and formerly of Cottage Grove, MN, passed away Friday, April 27, 2018.

Memorial Services will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., where friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. until the time of service. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6.

Steve was born June 22, 1983 in St. Paul, Minnesota, the son of Dan and Lugene (Menard) Werner. He married his high school sweetheart, Krysta Pawlenty on August 29, 2006.

Steve joined the Army on July 17, 2007 as a proud 19D Cavalry scout, serving almost 8 years and deploying with the 6th Squadron 8th Cavalry Regiment of 4th Brigade Combat Team 3rd Infantry Division 3 times. Steve was an invaluable asset and everyone’s best friend, his indomitable spirit and ability to make anyone laugh carried his team through more times than can be counted. Steve’s awards include the Combat Action Badge, 3 Army Commendation Medals, the Army Achievement Medal, 2 Meritorious Unit Citations, 2 Army Good Conduct Medals, the National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon, NATO Medal and the Drivers Mechanics Badge. “Until Valhalla brother, we will see you on the Fiddlers Green.”

Following his honorable discharge in 2015, Steve was employed at Menards. He earned his EMT certification, and began working at Paramount Ambulance in August of 2017, a job he loved. Recently, he had joined the Peosta-Centralia Fire Department as a volunteer.

Steve was a fantastic chef, and earned a degree from Le Cordon Bleu. He worked at many high end restaurants in the Minnesota area, and could always be counted on to make “fancy” food for his friends and family. Steve was very creative, and enjoyed sketching, drawing, and most recently woodworking. He also enjoyed hunting and got very excited for 4th of July fireworks. Steve loved his children, and enjoyed taking his son Kaden duck hunting.

Steve is survived by his wife, Krysta, of Dubuque; his children, Kaden, Rilan, Nolan, and Gracen; his parents, Dan and Lugene Werner, of Cottage Grove, MN; his sister, Krissie (Tim) Thrush of Woodbury, MN and their children, Kiley and Timmy; his parents-in-law Leroy and Carolyn Pawlenty of Peosta; and many other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.

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

Sharon Ewert

Sharon Ewert, 71, of Dubuque, passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Memorial Services will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace from Hospice of Dubuque officiating. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 2, at the funeral home.

Sharon was born July 7, 1946 in New Hampton, IA, the daughter of Bill and Loretta (Brincks) Hruska. She married Lawrence Ewert on April 1, 1967 in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on March 2, 2011.

Sharon graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964, and continued her education in Library Science. Sharon was employed as an executive secretary for Charles Kintzinger at Kintzinger Law Firm, and later as a librarian at Carnegie Stout Public Library, retiring in the mid-2000’s.

Sharon enjoyed crochet, music, and reading. She loved children, and especially loved her “granddog” Ember. Purple was her favorite color.

Sharon is survived by her son, Lawrence “Larry” Ewert Jr. of Dubuque; her sister, Mary (Dave) Puetz of Bernard; her brother Harold Hruska of Dubuque; her in-laws, John (Sharyn) Ewert, Cindy (Dennis) Cottrell, Laura (David) Bourquin, Kathy Ewert, and LaVonne Ewert; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, Lawrence Ewert Sr., .she was preceded in death by her parents; her parents in law, John Sr. and Sylvia Ewert; and her in-laws, David and Daniel Ewert, and Sandra Diane Ewert in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Sharon Ewert Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Specialty Care; Hospice of Dubuque; Dr. Mark Hermann and staff; Dr. Jill Powers and staff; Sr. Alice; and the staff at Finley Hospital 5 North.

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

Brian R. Beadle

Brian R. Beadle, 58, of Galveston, TX formerly of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, January 10, 2018 at the UTMB Hospital in Galveston. Visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday May 1, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview funeral Home and Crematory 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd. with a prayer service following at 7:00 pm

Nancy C. Sullivan

Nancy C. Sullivan, 84, of Cascade, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, April 27, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Nancy may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 10 a.m, Wednesday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial for Nancy will be held at 12:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 2, 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.

She was born August 5, 1933 in Cascade, Iowa, Daughter of William L. and Florence I. (Dunn) Kauder. She received her education from St. Mary’s High School in Cascade, Iowa. On October 22, 1955 she was united in marriage to Richard L. “Dick” Sullivan at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa. He preceded her in death on March 17, 2018.

She is a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

She is survived by five children, Shawn (Mark) Curoe of Aurora, IL, Tara (Jim “Jake”) Noonan of Cascade, IA, Lisa (Tom) Roth of Bellevue, IA, Bridget (Mike) Rea of Cascade, IA, Ryan Sullivan of Cedar Rapids, IA; 15 grandchildren, Cameron and Cale, Brynn, Blaine and Kaleb, Nicole, Megan and Rachel, Calvin, Colin, Claire, Chloe and Corinne, Ethan and Rylan; 13 great grandchildren with three more on the way; one sister, Lois (John) Sullivan of Cascade, IA three sisters-in-law, Rita Kauder and Joan Kauder both of Cascade, IA and Diana Kauder of Dubuque, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sisters, Jacquie (Lavern) Lambert and Phyllis (John “Skip”) Dolphin; three brothers, Fred, Kenneth “P.J.” and William “W.J.” Kauder; one sister-in-law, Norma (Robert) Kurt.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Shady Rest Memory Care Unit, Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jeanette Mausser, Sherry Kelchen and the Reiff Funeral Home for all the care and support they have given to Dick and Nancy and their family.
In Lieu of flowers a Nancy Sullivan memorial fund has been established.

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

Mairlyn E. Higgins Blok

Mairlyn Elaine Higgins Blok of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on a beautiful spring day on Friday, April 20, 2018 to the loving comfort of singing provided by Hospice caregivers. A tribute to her life is planned starting with visitation Tuesday, April 24 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 J.F.K. Road, in Dubuque. Funeral services will be held at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2018 starting at Grand View United Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Drive, Dubuque, with Rev. Thomas Shinkle officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery, Farley, Iowa.

Mairlyn was born on December 25, 1933 in Farley, Iowa the daughter of John and Elizabeth (Reimer) Rowe. Each Christmas would be a double celebration in honor of the birth of Christ and the birth of a truly beautiful woman loved by her family and many, many friends.

Mairlyn graduated from Dubuque Senior High School with the class of 1952. She married Warren C. Higgins Sr. June 25, 1953; he preceded her in death in 1979. For several decades she voluntarily organized memorable reunions and events for her classmates. In 1998 she retired from Finley Hospital after 28 years of service as Executive Assistant to the President and Human Resources. Mairlyn was a hard worker who also took part-time positions to help make ends meet while raising her sons on her own. A few of those employers through the years included JoAnn’s Dress Shop, the Sunflower Dress Shop, and the Redstone Bed and Breakfast. For 30 years Mairlyn also served as part-time Executive Secretary to the Dubuque County Medical Society.

In July of 1985 Mairlyn married Cleland Noah of Santa Rosa, CA. They enjoyed a loving union for only two short years due to a short illness that took his life in 1987. During that time they traveled and enjoyed life to the fullest.

In May of 1997 she once again found happiness and love and married Robert W. Blok of East Dubuque, IL. He preceded her in death in 2016. For nearly 20 years they traveled and attended social and volunteer events with their wide connection of friends. She would often organize large group events for shopping and to attend plays throughout the Midwest.

A critical auto accident in 2011 nearly took her life, but her faith was insurmountable. Her inspiration during the hardest times came from Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. She was eventually able to walk again in 2013 after several surgeries, however, a double stroke eventually placed her into 24-hour care for the remainder of her life. We wish to thank the staff of Good Samaritan Society of Davenport, IA, The Village of Legacy Point of Waukee, IA, and Suncrest Hospice of West Des Moines for their care and attention to her needs.

Her love for family kept her strong. Mushroom-hunting outings and years of month-long summer trips to Minnesota will be remembered by her sons. She will also be remembered for her deep love and attention to each grandchild, insisting that she spend personal time with each of them. It was her mission to take each of them to Disney World even when she could barely afford it. She had no greater joy than to see her family members succeed in their own unique ways, and for them to find happiness in their lives. She made great effort to be as involved as possible in her family’s lives. Her earthly presence and love will be missed by us all, but we know she will be watching over us until we all reunite in Heaven one day.

Surviving are her children; Warren (Julie) Higgins Jr. of Fremont, NE and their children Brad Higgins (Alexandria Cudworth and son Elijah) and Michelle (Reece) Kresser and son Benjamin; Paul (Tracy) Higgins of Flower Mound, TX and Brett (Diane) Higgins of Van Meter, IA and their children Boyd (Katie) Higgins and son Jack, and Jenna (Ryan) Boll.

The youngest of her siblings, Mairlyn was also preceded in death by brothers John (Pat) Rowe, and Laverne (Marion) Rowe, and sisters Betty Lou (who died as an infant), Edith (Edward) Kunau, and Esther (Howard) Walter.

As avid supporters of many causes, Mairlyn was especially fond of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in support of helping find a cure for Type 1 Diabetes. Memorial donations will be collected and submitted in her honor. Checks may be made payable to Brett Higgins – all proceeds will be submitted to JDRF in Mairlyn’s honor. Because JDRF is a 501(c)(3) organization, proceeds will be doubled through employer matching by the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines. Thank you FHLB of Des Moines.

Judith A. Wand

Judith A. Wand, 77 passed away Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, April 30 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Friends may call from 3:00 to 7:00 Sunday, April 28, 2018 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road.

Judith was born on February 27, 1941in Dubuque, the daughter of Robert and Virginia (Boren) Kies. She graduated from Visitation Academy and started working immediately at American Trust & Savings Bank. She met and fell in love with her future husband, Donald W. Wand who also worked at the bank.

Don and Judy started dating in December 1961 and were married on September 8, 1962 at St. Anthony’s Church where she was a member from 1959 until her death.

She left her job at the bank in July of 1963. Their first son, Michael was born in March of 1964; Steven in April 1966; Christopher in December 1967; and finally a daughter, Lisa in March 1971.

Judy was very involved at her children’s schools as a homeroom mother, carpooling on outings or wherever they needed. She was also a Cub Scout den mother for six years.

She enjoyed league bowling in her younger years, doing crossword puzzles, crafts, reading and watching her Chicago Cubs and Minnesota Vikings.

She went to work on the public school lunch program once all the kids were in school. Then she worked at a dress shop for a couple of years until it closed and finished her working years at Sears, retiring in 2002.

Don and Judy took some wonderful trips with the AmeriClub. They traveled to the east coast a couple of times, to England, Ireland, Italy, and Switzerland.

They also took wonderful trips with their children to Disney World, Sea World, Six Flags, New Salem and Springfield Illinois and many trips to Adventure Land with her sister and family. They both enjoyed going to the Casino’s.

She is survived by her four children, Michael W. Wand, Steven R. Wand, Christopher J. (Wil Hatchel) Wand, Lisa (David) Gatena; grandchildren, Courtney (Matt) Wand- Cooley, April Wand, Alexis Wand, Olivia Wand, and Max Gatena; Step- grandchildren, Aaron (Kara) Gatena, Ryan (Jennifer) Gatena, Madison Gatena; step- great- grandchildren, Kinley and Thomas Gatena; brother-in-law, Steven (Julie) Bartmann; many nieces and nephews; two former daughters-in-law, Marlene Wand and Mary Wand who she was still friends with to the end.

Judy was predeceased by her parents, Robert E. Kies Sr., 2008, mother, Virginia, 1996; husband, Donald, 2008; brother, Robert E. (Anne, 2011) Kies Jr., 2013; sister, Barbara (Gail Olson, 1971) Olson Bartmann, 2001; father-in-law, William Wand, 1976; mother-in-law, Lillian Wand, 1989; sister-in-law, Irma (Kenneth, 2003) Heim, 1985; and sister-in-law, Eulalia Wand, 2007.

A Judith Wand memorial fund has been established with proceeds to be donated to her favorite charities.

Judith’s family extends a special thank you to Dr. Mark Hermann and the staffs at Grand River Medical Group and Mercy Hospital for their care and support.

Gene E. Ranney

Gene E. Ranney, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Wednesday April 25, 2018 at home surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be from 9 to 12 pm Saturday at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd with funeral service to follow at 12 pm.

Gene was born March 28, 1943 in Columbus, Ohio, the son of Gene and Philipine (Dirosario) Ranney. Gene married Barbara (Lebben) on May 26, 1996 in Bullhead City, Nevada.

Gene worked as a film editor for various studios including 20thCentury Fox, and Universal Studios for 40+ years. He was passionate about the film industry as he worked his way up from the bottom starting in the mailroom when he was 17. He was an avid memorabilia collector as well, he collected radios, baseball cards, movie posters, and his latest collection was guns. He loved tinkering with guns taking them apart and putting them back together. Gene was an excellent cook, he was famous for his spaghetti and meatballs that was always a hit at family dinners and get togethers. He was a member of the California national Guard where he was deployed in 1971 for the Watts Riot. Gene also worked and managed the Elk’s Lodge #279 for 3 years in Dubuque. He loved to play golf and enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends on the golf course.

He is survived by His wife Barbara; two children Kristina (Eric) Harding, Pamela (John) Merrigan; four Step-Children Steve Whiteside, Jeff Josephsen, Rick Josephsen, and Daniel Josephsen; four sisters Mary Irvin, Sandra Ward, Shirley Torp, and Barbara Tucker; brother Michael Ranney; 11 grandchildren; 4 Great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers Philip and Bill Ranney.

Memorials may be made out to the Gene E. Ranney Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the Staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their compassion and care for Gene.

Robert C. Lehman

Robert C. (Bob) Lehman, 89, of Dubuque died Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Monday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 255 W. 10th Street, where visitation will also be held Tuesday from 10 to 10:45 am. Military rites will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League in the church courtyard following the funeral service.

Bob was born December 18, 1928 in Des Moines, son of Ralph and Florence (Hildreth) Lehman. He served in the US Army during the Korean War.

On June 21, 1955, Bob married Joann Van Zomeren at Eden Reformed Church, Herman, Minnesota.

Following his graduation from Colorado State University in 1957 with a degree in mechanical engineering, Bob began his career with John Deere Waterloo Works. In 1968, he transferred to Dubuque and continued working there until his retirement in 1984; with a year long transfer to Europe in 1982.

After his retirement, Bob and Joann traveled throughout the world. They wintered in Green Valley, Arizona where Bob volunteered with the GVR computer club.

Bob was always very mechanical and began building his tool collection at the age of six. While he worked at John Deere, and after his retirement, he owned a building where he converted many vans. He built his largest project, a motor home that was later donated to Camp Courageous. He could take any vision and turn it into a reality.

Bob was a loving and caring family man. He was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ and a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers.

He is survived by his wife, Joann Lehman of Dubuque; three children, Mary (Merlin) Santjer of Dubuque, Linda (Regis Rusnock) Lehman MD of Ames, and Sharon (Tom Burt) Jones of Cedar Rapids; eight grandchildren, Megan (Matt) Geerts of Omaha, Nebraska, Matthew Santjer of Iowa City, Erin Lehman Gamble of Ames, Jesse Lehman Gamble of Iowa City, Paul (Holly) King of Valdosta, Georgia, Bethany (Michael) Lancaster of Cedar Rapids, Rachel King VanderGaast of Cedar Rapids and Rebekah (Heath) Tuma of Fordham, Norfolk, UK; and nine great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David Lehman.

Memorials may be made to First Congregational United Church of Christ, Camp Courageous or Bethany Home.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Home, and the doctors, nurses and staff at Medical Associates and Mercy Medical Center for their excellent care.

Steven D. Manthey

Steven D. Manthey, 33, of Dubuque passed away Friday, April 20, 2018. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Saturday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where funeral services will be held Saturday at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia.

Steven was born January 27, 1985 in Dubuque, son of Greg “Skip” and Laurie (Boots) Manthey.

He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 2003 and has been employed with Guardian Industries in DeWitt for 10 years.

He was an avid Atlanta Falcons fan and always looked forward to family vacations to Hawaii. He especially enjoyed dinner at Eichman’s on Friday nights with family and friends.

He is survived by his parents, Greg “Skip” and Laurie Manthey of Dubuque and a sister, Debbie (Paul) Gauger of Wausau, Wisc. He is also survived by his aunts and uncles; Scott, Tim and Sharon Manthey of Dubuque. Joy Manthey and Cindy Williams of Houston, TX. And Cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents; Dewain and Lila (Briggs) Manthey, Clarence J. and DeAnne (Bartmann) Boots; and uncles; Bob Williams and Jim Boots. His uncle, Wayne Manthey went to be with him on April 23, 2018.

For further information, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Eugene J. Ahmann

Eugene J. Ahmann, 81, of Farley, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Thursday, April 26, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Gene may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Sunday, April 29, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 2 p.m. and Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m, Monday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian burial for Gene will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, April 30, 2018 at St. Clement’s Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa with Msgr. Lyle Wilgenbusch presiding. Burial will be held in St. Clement’s Cemetery in Bankston, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Farley American Legion Post #656.

He was born February 28, 1937 in Farley, Iowa son of Clem and Marie (Soppe) Ahmann. He is a graduate of the former St. Joseph’s School in Farley, Iowa. On September 9, 1961 he was united in marriage to Helen T. Duggan at St. Clement’s Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa. She preceded him in death on December 7, 2008.

He loved fishing, fishing and even more fishing, and listening to Johnny Cash. He was well known as the “Music Man” at Stonehill Care Center as he often shared his love of country music with the other residents. He is an Army Veteran, having served from November 14, 1955 to September 12, 1957. He farmed in Bankston and was also employed at FDL Packing Company in Dubuque, Iowa.

He was a member of St. Clement’s Parish in Bankston, Iowa and the Knights of Columbus Council #2001.

He is survived by nine children, Vicky (Larry) Hubanks of Epworth, Bill (Barb) Ahmann of Naples, FL, Mary Lou Flury of Epworth, Joe (Donna) Ahmann of Cedar Rapids, Barb (Bill) Nauman of Farley, Tom (Kelly) Ahmann of Marion, Anne Ahmann (& friend, Mike Meier) of Lancaster, WI, Mike Ahmann (& friend, Kari Kugler) of Waterloo, Matt (Angie) Ahmann of Epworth; 22 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; 3 sisters, Ann Shaw of Dubuque, Nancy Dolphin of Farley, and Mary Jane Ahmann of Dubuque; sisters and brothers-in-law, Mae Elgin of Dyersville, Don Duggan of Dubuque and Bill (Jane) Duggan of Dubuque.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Ellie Ahmann, a son-in-law, John Flury; 4 siblings, Jim (Shirley) Ahmann, Kay (Ken) Boge, John Ahmann and Joan Ahmann in infancy; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joe Link, Dallas Dolphin, Reece Shaw, Ann and Bill Weber, Jack Duggan and Jeanie Duggan.

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

Delbert L. Pillard

Delbert L. Pillard, 88, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on April 26th, 2018 at home.

Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, May 2nd, 2018 at St. Joseph Church, Key West with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Family and friends may visit after 9:00 a.m. at the church until time of mass. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Del was born on August 21, 1929 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of Louis & Mary (Murphy) Pillard. He married Rita Schmitt on September 4, 1948 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. She preceded him in death on October 18, 2004.

Del was a lifelong member of St Joseph Church, Key West and the Key West community. Del and Rita owned Dels TV all their working days and we’re proud small business owners. Del would take a call day or night, even Christmas, to help someone with their television woes. Dels strong work ethic and dedication to integrity set the tone for his family. And his family was everything to him, he never missed a game, a concert, or a grandparent’s day.

He will be missed by everyone who knew him. He is now reunited with Rita, they were very proud of the life and family they created together. He was so sad to lose his oldest son Joe unexpectedly last fall, their shared passion for the Cardinals was a thing to behold, go Cards! Goodbye dad, grandpa, great grandpa and friend. You lived a long fruitful life and you will be missed.

Del is survived by his children, Brian (Jenni) Pillard, of Dubuque and Laura (Terry) Dement, of Cedar Rapids; his daughter-in-law Sheila Pillard, of Dubuque; along with 8 grandchildren, Amy Studier, Jim Pillard, Anne (Mark Trocinski) Pillard, Ted Pillard, Nick (Julie) Pillard, Ben Pillard Zach Pillard, and Avery Dement; five great grandchildren, Harper, Charlie, Mitch, Madeline, and Henry.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Rita and his son Joe, a son in infancy, and his sister Lucille.

We would like to thank Sheila, Del’s daughter-in-law for the extra love and care she gave dad.

Charles E. Wernimont

Charles E. Wernimont, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on April 26, 2018, at UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 1st, 2018, at St. Joseph Church, Key West with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday, April 30th, 2018, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 3:00 p.m.

Charles Edward Wernimont was born in Dubuque, Iowa on August 22, 1934, the son of Cyril (“Cy”) Wernimont and Mary (Cavanaugh) Wernimont. Charlie lost his mother, Mary, at age 5 and was raised by his father and his aunt (Aunty) Elizabeth. He attended Buncombe School in rural Dubuque County through 8th grade. Thereafter he worked on the family farm and on neighboring farms until 1957 when he left for the service. Charlie took a 3 day train ride to California where he met up with his company of 192 men and they took one of United Airlines first flights overseas. The flight was 33 hours to Japan and then a 3 day ship ride to Korea where he served his country in war for 16 months until, one day on the 38th Parallel, he received a telegram and he was called home due to the failing health of his Aunty. In addition to his duties as a soldier, Charlie served as an altar boy and worked with the Army chaplains, a privileged opportunity that he really enjoyed.

Charlie had met Gladys Denlinger at the Melody Mill prior to his deployment however they did not have a chance to date. He thought of Gladys much, however it was not until he returned from his service that they had their first date. Charlie enjoyed the dances at Melody Mill, their various nights out at the Grand, A&W and the Monte Carlo in his blue, two door 1959 Chevy Biscayne. In 1961 Charlie and Gladys were married and they spent the next 57 years together as a dedicated husband and wife. Charlie was proud of Gladys and how she managed to shoot bales in the wagon with the kicker baler and how she operated the D17 Allis on the farm. He was the proudest man in the country to have a wife who balanced family with bringing in the crops. Most importantly he admired Gladys’ gentle way with our family and how she always managed to stay calm and brave on the outside through the tough times of life.

Charlie is widely known for his kindness, gentleness and compassion (he is often referred to as one of the nicest people on earth) as well as those kind blue eyes. He had generations of work ethic forged by generations of farm culture. When combined with Gladys’ strong work ethic and sense of humor, these traits created children of which Charlie was very proud.

Surviving Charlie, in addition to his wife Gladys (Denlinger) Wernimont, are Ronald (Ronnie) Wernimont (Amy), Diane Miner (Dave), Kevin Wernimont (Jennifer), Donna Busch (Flint Drake), Kenny Wernimont, Joyce Cravens (Shane), Joanne Reynolds (Shawn) and Julie (Buddy) Wernimont. Charlie is also survived by 15 grandchildren, Ryan (Molly) Wernimont, Brianna Wernimont, Jake (Ashleigh) Miner, Brandon Miner, Alyssa Miner, Mackenzie Wernimont, Myles Wernimont, Mitchel Wernimont, Jalee Frommelt (Cody Leib), Cody Frommelt, Alea Frommelt, Lucas Busch, Adam Busch, Jayda Reynolds and Holland Reynolds. Charlie also has two great grandchildren, Mason & Gavin. Charlie has a surviving sister Liz Decker and brother-in-law Hubert Decker. Charlie also is survived by Gladys’ siblings, Luann Weber (Milton), Marilyn Bergfeld, John Denlinger and Clair Denlinger. Charlie has many surviving nieces and nephews. Predeceasing Charlie was an infant son, Bobby Wernimont, his sister, Mary Decker and brothers-in-law, William Decker, Ralph Bergfeld and two sisters-in-law, Carol Clemens and Ruth Denlinger.

Charlie most recently worked at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church and retired at the age of 79. Charlie often commented that this was his most rewarding job, bringing him much joy. He looked forward to going to work each day and the fun he had with co-workers, students and guests of Holy Trinity. Charlie loved time with his family, going for drives and following the various construction projects around the Dubuque area.

Prior to his death, Charlie expressed to his family that he wanted his obit to express gratitude and love to his wife, Gladys. Her support and love as a wife and friend were invaluable. Those who knew Charlie wish to express gratitude to him. A life of service to his country, a reputation for hard work and kindness, a loving and supportive wife and a family that had the privilege to call you our Dad and Grandpa. You were our treasure and we have been blessed. Dad, on earth you were so humble. You had a tough journey in life and yet you always managed to say, “It will be ok”. We love you Dad. Fly High in Heaven.

Genevieve M. (Goldsmith) Olberding

Genevieve M. (Goldsmith) Olberding, 87, of Dyersville, passed away Friday, April 27, 2018, at her home in the presence of her sons.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 8 p.m. Sunday, April 29, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where an American Legion Auxiliary and Catholic Daughters of America Rosary will be recited at 4 pm. Visitation will continue Monday morning from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 30, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Gen was born March 22, 1931, in Earlville the daughter of Arthur and Minnie (Melchert) Goldsmith. She graduated from Earlville High School in 1948. She then attended Mercy College of Nursing in Dubuque, graduating in 1952, and then worked at the VA Hospital in Madison, WI until 1955. Gen also worked at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque from 1955 – 1987 and then Medical Associates from 1984 – 1996, completely retiring in 1996.

She married Raymond Olberding on November 28, 1957, in Earlville and he preceded her in death in 2015.

Gen was a member of the CD of A, American Legion Auxiliary, Resurrection Choir, Hospital Auxiliary, Mercy Alumni and she also volunteered at Mercy Hospital.

Survivors include two sons: Scott (Debbie) Olberding of Lena, IL, and Mark Olberding of Miami, FL, two grandchildren: Jacob and Brooke Olberding; siblings: Betty (Hank) Ehrlich of Dyersville, Nellie (Bob) Krapfl of New Vienna,; in-laws: Bernie Nefzger of Earlville, Marjorie Olberding, Don (Darlene) Olberding and Eileen Olberding, and special nephew & niece, Ken & Lois Olberding.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond, siblings: Margaret (Clem) Kapler, Delores (Ed) Nefzger, Mary (John) Kupferschmidt, Mildred (Larry) Kramer, Floyd (Marie) Goldsmith, George (Laura) Goldsmith, James (Bertha) Goldsmith, Fred (Darlene) Goldsmith, Arthur Goldsmith Jr.; in-laws: Gerald (Erma) Olberding, Bob Olberding, Mercedes (Gilbert) Singsank, Germaine (Joe) Schlichte, Catherine (Jim) Griffin and Delbert Olberding.

Memorials are preferred.

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

Chad M. Breen

Chad M. Breen, 46, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at 8:10 p.m. on April 24, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, surrounded by his family and friends.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 30th, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Key West with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 6:00 p.m.

Chad was born on December 12, 1971 in Dubuque, IA, son of Michael Breen and Bonnie (Sabers) Breen. Chad graduated from the University of Northern Iowa.

He married Chris (Urbain) Breen on June 9, 2001, together they had three children, Hayley, Nathan and Natalie. Chad founded Breen Financial Services Inc in 2002. He was a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a member of the NFLPA. He built his career connecting with athletes across the U.S.

Chad was a positive, strong, courageous man who always put his family first, including the family dog, Blitz. He was an avid sports fan, with a special love for the Chicago Bears and White Sox. Sports was a love he shared with his children, often playing ball, hoops, or watching a game together. But Chad’s favorite was watching and coaching their games. Friends were also very important to him. His positivity and his infectious smile drew people to him. His joking manner and ability to bring laughter wherever he went will be fondly remembered.

Chad was a transplant survivor, receiving a liver on December 18, 1997. He was grateful to have 20 additional years to build his family, never forgetting the selfless gift of his organ donor family. Chad participated in several Transplant Olympic Games with Team Iowa, gaining meaningful friendships and fun memories. He appreciated the support received from this inspiring transplant community, including the Iowa Donor Network.

Surviving are his wife, Chris; their children, Hayley, Nathan and Natalie Breen; mother, Bonnie (Sabers) Breen; father Michael (Mary) Breen; sister, Jodi Breen King; step sister, Aimee (Troy) Long; father-in-law Mick Urbain; brothers-in-law Rick (Laura) Urbain and Randy (Janet) Urbain; nephews, Alex Breen, Jayden King, Brandon (Katy) Urbain, and Nick and Zach Urbain; niece, Savannah King; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Paul and Alverna (Carroll) Breen; maternal grandparents, Floyd and Cecilia (Ruden) Sabers; mother-in-law, Shirley Urbain; uncles, James Breen, Michael Sabers and Harold Helbing; and cousins, Patrick Breen, Dawn Jellison, and Dale Sabers.

The family would like to thank everyone for their support. Special thanks to the medical team at University of Iowa Hospital, especially Dr. Michael Voigt, Dr. Henning Gerke, Nurses Mary Jeanne (MJ) Perino-Phillips and Gretchen Warkentin, and the many other doctors and nurses that cared so well for Chad over the years. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Wu, Chad’s transplant doctor.

In lieu of flowers, a Chad M. Breen memorial fund will be established or donations can be made to the Iowa Donor Network.