Obituaries Archive

Pauline Crimmins

Pauline “Polly” Crimmins, 93, of Dubuque, formerly of Miamisburg, Ohio, passed away peacefully, Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at home, surrounded by her loving family.

To honor Polly’s life, Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 19, at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Ghost Church. Burial will be in Our Lady of Good Hope Cemetery, Miamisburg, OH. next to her husband and infant son. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, February 18, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, where there will be a prayer service at 6:30 p.m.

Polly was born October 31, 1924 in Benton, WI. daughter of Jacob Laurence and Mary Ellen (Dunn) Foht. In 1953 she married William Crimmins in Cuba City, WI. He preceded her in death in 1985.

Prior to becoming a full time loving mother and home maker, Polly was employed at the Battery Factory Dubuque. In 1990 Polly moved back to Dubuque living with her daughter Jeannie and son-in-law Joe for the past 28 years.

Polly was a devout Catholic and loved doing all her volunteer work at Kettering Memorial Hospital and Our Lady of Good Hope Church and School in Miamisburg, OH. She loved her family and attending ALL family gatherings.? She was a very witty, little lady who enjoyed making people laugh. She loved reading, shopping and was a true fashion bug! She especially loved adding to her purse, boots and high heel collection, CONSTANTLY! One of her favorite past times was going out to lunch or dinner and having her “special” glass of wine. And WOW…incredibly, she was a triumphant survivor of breast cancer for more than ten years! God bless her!

Those left to cherish Polly’s memory include two daughters, Jeannie (Joe) Beckmann of Dubuque and Susan (Joe) Amsler of Miamisburg, OH; seven grandchildren, Sean and Troy (Lisa) Haley, Chris (Michelle) and Chad Amsler, Aaron, Erica (Jim O’Connor) and Julie Tyler eight great grandchildren, Mason, Malakhi, Aleea, and Kylee Haley, Zach and Leah Amsler, and Brayden and Maddie Tyler; along with many loving nieces and nephews throughout our great country.

She was preceded in death by her husband Bill, her daughter Connie Tyler and infant son William Michael.? Polly was also preceded in death by four sisters Eleanor, Jeannette, Marie, and Jody. And two brothers Larry, and John “Casey” Foht. Four more siblings died at birth.

In lieu of flowers, a Pauline “Polly” Crimmins Memorial Fund has been established.

On-line condolences may be left for the family at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital, Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding compassion and care of Polly.

Leonard H. Wynkoop

Leonard H. Wynkoop, 91, of Wyoming, Iowa, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2018, at the Clarence Nursing Home in Clarence, Iowa.

A visitation will be held from 4 to 6:45 P.M. on Monday, February 19, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with a celebration of life service beginning at 7 P.M. A private burial will be held at a later date from the Cady Cemetery, rural Wyoming, Iowa.

Leonard Henry Wynkoop was born on October 31, 1926, in DeWitt, Iowa, to Bernice (Quick) and Leonard Henry Wynkoop, Sr. He was raised by his paternal grandparents, Wallace and Amelia Wynkoop. He was a graduate of Delmar High School where he met the love of his life, Phyllis Jane Sleeper. They were married on June 15, 1947, in Delmar, Iowa, and to this union five children were born: Marianne, Brenda, Susan, Todd, and Timm.

Leonard was a farmer all of his life and was known as “Scoop” by many of his friends. In Delmar, he also worked as a butcher. He moved his family to Wyoming, Iowa, in 1958, and later to what became the family farm. He also worked part-time for 25 years at the United Livestock Sale Barn in Maquoketa. After “retiring” as a dairy farmer, he raised and sold registered Paint horses and Boer goats.

Leonard and Jane were lifetime members of the Baldwin Saddle Club. He was also a member of the Wyoming United Methodist Church and the Cedar Valley Coonhunters. They were both very involved in community projects and they made a difference!

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Jane Wynkoop of Clarence, IA; three daughters, Marianne (Vern) Oepping of Estes Park, CO, Brenda Degner of Muscatine, IA, and Susan Hellmer of Plymouth, WI; two sons, Todd Wynkoop (Sue) of Clarence, IA, and Timm Wynkoop (Lori) of Oxford Junction, IA; Grandchildren: Mark (Jean) Tasker and their children Hunter and Evan; Michelle Tasker; Angela (Jay) Degner-Tuffing; Matt (Tiffany) Degner and their children Emily Degner, and sons Tyler and Trevor Miller; Travis (Jessica) Hellmer; Stacey (Riley) Williams; Lacey Wynkoop; Lindsey Wynkoop; Tara (Steve) Weir and their children Chloe, Cooper, Keegan and Kaitlynn; Dana (Jeramie) Ellefson and their children Jordyn and Payton; and Erin (Nick) Brus and their children Mason and Noah; Also surviving is Leonard’s aunt “Auntie” Evelyn Griebel.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and paternal grandparents.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Wyoming Betterment Committee, Wyoming Museum, the Midland Fire Department or Ambulance Service, or the Wyoming Library.

Leonard’s family would like to express their appreciation to all the staff at Clarence Senior Living for their loving and compassionate care of Leonard.

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

Bernard E. Necas

Bernard E. Necas passed away peacefully on February 14, 2018.

Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17th, 2018 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller Officiating. Military honors will be accorded following mass by the American Legion Post #6. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. Burial will be at a later date in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

He was born the son of Frank and Mary (Sir) Necas on August 15, 1933 in rural Lime Springs, Iowa. He attended a one room country schoolhouse K thru 8th grade. In 1951 he graduated from Lime Springs High School. Bernie married Floriene Roethler at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Ionia, Iowa on June 17, 1958. Bernie graduated from Upper Iowa University in 1960.

He served two years in the Army during the Korean War Era and was a member of the adjutant General Corps and assigned to 3rd Infantry Division Headquarters Company at Fort Benning, Georgia as a Personnel Management Specialist.

After the military, Bernie taught school at Andrew, Iowa, worked for the State of Iowa Social Welfare Department and worked for the City of Dubuque Engineering Department for 30 years.

Bernie enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, fishing, hunting, and listening to polka music. While quite proud of his Czech heritage he was forever proud of his Country and of our Armed Forces. A long-time member of the American Legion Post 6, Bernie served as a past Commander of the Post on several committees and was a member of the Post 6 Funeral Detail since 1996 and served as Commander of the Detail from 2000 until 2015 when his health prohibited him from continuing his passionate service. He also volunteered at Finley Hospital and drove the DAV van to Iowa City.

He is survived by his wife Floriene; son Bruce (Marie) Necas and their children Blair and Lindsi; his daughter Jill (Todd) Link and their children Collin, Connor, Tanya and Blake Necas; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Frank and Leslie; sisters Helen and Mary; and his son, Brian.

We pay our most sincere respects and appreciation to an honorable fallen husband, father, grandparent, friend, and veteran.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Church of the Nativity or a Veteran Organization of your choice.

Bette Schrobilgen

Heaven became a little brighter on February 13, 2018, when it welcomed Bette Schrobilgen, 76 years old, of Dubuque. She passed away at home in the loving care of her husband and three sons. We know she is looking down on us with her beautiful blue eyes and wide smile, as we continue to feel the love she was always quick to share. Her passing was abrupt, but her life was well-lived.

Visitation will be Sunday, 2/18 /18 from 1:00-4:00 at Hoffman-Schneider Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd, Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 4 p.m.
Mass will be at Resurrection Catholic Church Monday 2/19/18 at 10:30 followed by a reception at The Moracco Supper Club. Rev. Joseph Hauer will officiate. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Bette was born in Lafayette, IN on November 30, 1941, and later her family moved to small-town Iowa Falls, IA. It was in Iowa Falls where she lived an idyllic childhood on the Iowa River. She played flute in the high school marching band and orchestra, where she learned to love music.

Bette went to nursing school in Dubuque, and she began her nursing career as an RN at Mercy Hospital. A devoted mother, Bette worked 3rd shift at Mercy to guarantee a parent would always be home during the day when her family was young. Finally, after her death, she is now able to catch up on the many hours of lost sleep.

Later Bette earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Arts, switched employment to Amicare and retired as a case-worker at Scenic Valley Agency on Aging. Through her work she was able to care, nourish and touch many patients with her nurturing manner.

During Bette’s first years in Dubuque, she met the love of her life, Dale Schrobilgen, at a beer party hosted at his parents’ house while they were away. Although his parents may not have been happy about the party, Dale became the luckiest guy by winning Bette’s heart on that night. With genuine and abiding love, they were married in Germany and began a life together that would last 54 years. And it is this example that their teenaged children would turn to when reminding their parents that good things can happen when you bend the rules.

In addition to the accomplishment of raising 4 incredible children: Greg, Dan, Jill and Scott (not necessarily listed in order of most incredibleness), Bette was also blessed with 2 daughters-in-law, Kathleen (Sheehan) and Jodi (Reck), and one son-in-law, Bill Raine. Bette also had another remarkable family member, Imal Pedriana. Imal came from Niger, Africa at 14 years old in 1992, lived with Greg and Kathleen, has been a cherished family member ever since, and is now married to his wife Katie, and father to 4 beautiful boys. Imal became Bette’s 5th child and the youngest brother to all of her children, and the family continues to grow.

But Bette was most proud of her 8 beloved grandchildren: Malachy, Erin, Rory, Grace, Nate, Ava, Maren and Nora . Seeing her grandchildren always brought a beaming smile to her face, and the time spent with them was priceless.

Bette loved music and gardening. In earlier days with her young family, 8-tracks and albums played continuously on the console stereo, while musicals were a joy to her in later years. The garden that graces Bette and Dale’s yard on Asbury Rd. is their labor of love. With subtle insight into what to plant and where to plant it, Bette cultivated a radiant garden, with a richness seen in the faces of her flowers that matches the depth of the enduring love rooted in her family, her legacy inspiring us to share love, be compassionate and embrace life’s journeys.

Bette is survived by her brother, George (Wilma) Oswald Jr and her sister, Carole Schultz as well.

She is preceded in death by her only daughter, Jill Raine, her parents (George W. Oswald and Gertrude N Neidhardt) and her brother-in-law, Randy Schultz.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorials or donations to Resurrection Church or Hospice of Dubuque. Condolences may be expressed online at www.hskfh.com.

Joan A. Lasche

Joan A. Lasche, 82, of Earlville, passed away Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester.

Visitation will be held from 3-6 p.m. Sunday, February 18, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where a parish vigil service will be held at 3:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Monday from 8:30 to 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. Monday, February 19, 2018, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Joan was born January 21, 1936 in Earlville, Iowa the daughter of John and Rose (Roling) Fessler. She married Earl Lasche on July 7, 1953 in Ryan and later divorced. Joan cared for children in her home daycare. She was an avid card player and did many embroidery projects.

Survivors include her 6 children: Carol (Martin) Ries of Dyersville, Doris (Michael) Ries of Dubuque, Linda Baker of Solon, Dave (Penny) Lasche of Bettendorf, Connie (Terry) Domenick of League City, TX, Kevin Lasche of Earlville, 13 grandchildren: Stacey, Cindy and Jessie Ries, Dawn Blaser, Chad (Becca) Ries, April (Ryan Dolan) Ries, Justin Ries, Brandon, Joshua and Dillon Baker, Aubrey Lasche, Heather and Michael Domenick, 8 great grandchildren: Sienna, Kaitlyn, Ember, Ashlynn, Ava, Kenrick, Caden and Braydon and her sister-in-law: Barb Fessler of Worthington.

She was preceded in death by her parents, daughter, Janet Lasche-Bolen, siblings: Catherine (Bob) Reittinger, Rita (Bob) Bremer and Herb Fessler.

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

Melvin J. Hammerand

Melvin J. Hammerand, 85, of Dubuque passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2018.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Monday, February 19, 2018 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dubuque. Family will greet friends 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, February 18, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Rd. Burial with Military Honors will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Melvin was born November 19, 1932 in Dubuque the son of Alfred and Eliza (Smith) Hammerand. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and then served his country in the US Army 1953-1955. Melvin worked at the Dubuque Packing House for 31 years.

He was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church, an avid outdoorsman, especially fishing and hunting. Melvin enjoyed going to auctions, baking, gardening, woodworking and going to the farmers market. He always enjoyed his daily walks down Grandview Avenue overs the years.

Survivors include his sons, Rod (Amy Smith) and Rick (Sandra) Hammerand; 7 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; step-mother, Edna M. Hammerand; a sister, Anita (Danny) Gouge; a nephew, Jimmy (Mia) Minton, Jr.; 2 great-nieces; 3 step-sisters, Janice (Don) Dehn, Julie Kramer, and Joyce (John) Flanagan; and numerous other relatives.

Melvin was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Merlin; a brother in-law, Jimmy H. Minton, Sr.; and his wife, Teresa (Bannon) Hammerand.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Melvin’s memory.

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

Patricia Ann Kemler

Patricia Ann Kemler, 87, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, February 14, 2018 at Luther Manor.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, February 17, at St. Raphael Cathedral. Msgr. Thomas Toale will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, February 16, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a prayer service at 2:30 p.m.

Patricia was born March 24, 1930 in Dubuque, the daughter of Earl and Wilhemina (Lei) Rapp. She married Harold F. Kemler on April 18, 1948 at St. Raphael Cathedral. He preceded her in death on April 15, 2003.

Prior to becoming a full-time mother, Patricia was employed at the Battery Factory, where she met many friends.

Patricia enjoyed playing Bingo and spending time outside. She looked forward to participating in the weekly ice cream day at Luther Manor. In her younger years, Patricia and Harold enjoyed roller skating. She was an avid shopper, and Harold would wait patiently for her on a bench.

Patricia is survived by five daughters, Jane Kemler of Dubuque, Linda (Ron) Jump of Moline, IL, Sandra Kemler, Karen (Tom) Shaffer, and Connie Kemler, all of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Heidi (Chris) Brown, Michael (Caelae) Jump, McFeely (Jen) Jump, Chrissy (Mark) Besler, Kate (Ed) Trujillo, and Andrew and Benjamin Shaffer; seven great-grandchildren; two step great-grandchildren; two sisters, Marilyn (Elmer) Engling, and Jeanne (Gerald) Fudge, both of Dubuque; and a sister-in-law, Elaine Rapp of Dubuque.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Eileen (Joe) Bellings; four brothers, Earl (Myra), Robert, John (Lillian), and Gerald (Dixie) Rapp.

Memorials may be made to Luther Manor, or to the Veteran’s organization of the donor’s choice.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Manor, especially nurse’s aide Diane; her daughter Karen for her loving care of Patricia; and her granddaughter Chrissy for always being there.

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

Ronald Duster

Ronald Duster, age 73, of East Dubuque, Illinois, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, February 12, 2018, at home, with his family by his side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque, with Fr. Alan Dietzenbach officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday and from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque.

Ron was born at home in Holy Cross, Iowa to Edwin Michael Duster and Rita Catherine Freiburger Duster. Ron has 2 sisters, Darlene (Jim) Mullen, Rosemary (Elmer) Arensdorf, and 3 brothers, Roger (Carol) Duster, Bob (Mary) Duster, and Gary (Patti) Duster. He loved his childhood, and spending time with family & friends. Some of his favorite childhood memories include the time he spent on family farms, and building a car with his dad and brothers when they were young.

He married his high school sweetheart, Susan Paar, and they had 3 children; Laura (Jason) Ozenkoski, Lisa (Geoff) Barklow, and Brian (Stacey) Duster. In the coming years their lives were blessed with 8 grandchildren: Codey (Tiffany) Ozenkoski, Jake Atchison, Whitney Barklow, Noah Barklow, Keagan Duster, Payton Duster, Jaylen Duster, and Rylin Duster and 3 great grandchildren; Grayson and Remy Ozenkoski and Ada Atchison.

Ron graduated from Senior High School in 1962. He worked at Renier’s in his younger years and then retired from John Deere at the early age of 49 after 30 years. He was a proud member of the UAW Local 94.

Once he retired, he and Sue took to the road in their RV where they enjoyed traveling, snow birding in Arizona and Florida for many years, and meeting new friends from across the United States.

Ron’s wife, children, and grandchildren were the joy of his life. His love for sports lived on through his kids and grandkids. Through the years he enjoyed coaching children in little league, watching his kids and especially his grandkids play sports. When they weren’t playing, he could be found cheering on the East Dubuque Warriors, Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs or his favorite NASCAR drivers, Dale Earnhardt, Sr, and Dale Earnhardt, Jr. He also enjoyed his own reserved seat at the stock car races at the Dubuque County Fairgrounds and the Farley races. He always loved a good hand of Euchre, game of Rummikub and enjoyed gambling at the boat!

Ron was always a very handy guy and could build or fix anything needed. No project was ever too big; he built the second home he and Sue lived in with their kids. Ron loved cars but his pride and joy was building his 1940 Ford Pickup and taking it to car shows. His pick-up won several awards throughout the years at the car shows.

Ron lived a very large life, always had his family at his side and the enjoyment of many great friends, especially Pat Dillon, Lynn Tharp and Darel Hilkin who are just like family.

Being a good husband, dad, and grandpa were the most important things he did, and it remained so until his last day with us. He doesn’t want his family and friends to mourn his passing, he wants us to hug our family and friends, tell them we love them every day and enjoy life!

Ron has joined his mother, father, mother-in-law, father-in-law, uncles, aunts, and cousins in God’s Kingdom where he will continue to watch over us until we are all reunited.

We would like to send a very sincere thank you to Dr. Kristen Nelson and her nurse Joanie Hoppman, Patty Copeland with Finley Homecare and Kristen, Melissa and Peggy with Hospice of Dubuque for your continued support, compassion and care you gave Ron and his family.

In lieu of flowers a Ronald E. Duster memorial fund has been established.

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

Sharon L. Heller

Sharon L. Heller, 81, of Dubuque passed away Monday, February 12, 2018 surrounded by her loving family at Luther Manor.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where visitation will be held Saturday from 9 a.m. until time of service. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Sharon was born on July 20, 1936 in the Twin Cities, daughter of Harold and Mamie (Reid) Lorenz. After graduating from Lion’s Township High School in La Grange, Illinois, she received her BA and master’s degree from the University of Iowa. She taught special education at the University of Iowa Hospital School.

On August 13, 1960, she married Dr. Joseph Heller at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Iowa City. They enjoyed 53 years of married life until Joe’s death on June 1, 2013. In 1964, they moved to Dubuque where Joe started his pediatric practice at Medical Associates.

During the 1970’s, Sharon served two terms on the Dubuque Community School Board. She completed her final term as president. Also, Sharon was employed by the Department of Human Services as a Volunteer Coordinator for Information and Referral. In 1984, they relocated to Mesa, Arizona where she taught pre-school. They spent their retirement years in the Tampa, Florida sunshine.

Sharon enjoyed furthering her education, reading, shopping, volunteering and was a wonderful gardener, growing many award-winning roses. Her gardening skills earned her the opportunity to be a test grower of new roses for Jackson Perkins. She and Joe supported their daughters in their love of raising and showing American Saddlebred horses. She had a passion for her pets especially her pugs. She was a proud, loving mother to of her four daughters, “The Heller Girls” and their families.

She is survived by four daughters, Julie (Larry) Vogt of Dubuque, Joy Carlson of Dubuque, Kathy (Franc) Djennas of Maui, Hawaii, and Karen (Anthony) Monaghan of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada; grandchildren, Austin (Mallory Schmid) Vogt, Sydney Carlson (fiancée, Cameron Sohl), Jessica (Michael) Djennas Vasquez and Liam, Aidan and Claire Monaghan and three great grandchildren, Aizlyn, Mikie and Roman Vasquez. Susan Stanley Hamilton, a special niece who has spent extra time with Sharon.
She is also survived by her twin sister, Karon (Dr. John) Stanley of Kansas City; a sister in law, Dr. Mary Ann Lorenz of Manchester and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her oldest grandson, Grant Vogt; her brother, Harold Lorenz; sister, Patricia Chantry; brother in law, Dr. William Chantry, and sister in law, Floy Lorenz.

Memorials may be made to the Miracle League of Dubuque in honor of her lifelong love of helping individuals of all ages with special needs.

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

The family would like to thank Medical Associates Dr. Jennifer Mohr and staff, Kelly Hall McMahon, the doctors, nurses and staff at Mercy Medical Center, as well as the nurses and staff at Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their outstanding compassion and care.

Thomas A. Ries

Thomas A. Ries, 65, of Farley, Iowa passed away Tuesday, February 13, 2018 at Unity Point Health, Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of Tom may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa. Friends may also call after 9 a.m, Saturday at the funeral home.

Services for Tom will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, February 17, 2018 at Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, with Deacon James Kean Presiding. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

He was born November 25, 1952 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of LuVerne and Madaline (Allen) Ries. He is a graduate of the former St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa. On November 25, 1972 he was united in marriage to Ellen R. Ehl. He was employed at Eagle Supermarket in Dubuque, Iowa.

He enjoyed camping, playing cards and especially spending time with his granddaughters.

He was a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen Ries of Farley, IA, two sons, Steven (Sandi) Ries of Dubuque, IA and Dave Ries of Macomb, IL; one daughter Melissa Sarazin of Farley, IA; 2 granddaughters, Dylan and Natalie and a grandson to arrive in June; two sisters, Sue Ann Davis of FL and Andrea (Fred) Steffensmeier of Farley, IA; two brothers-in-law, Bill (Myriam) Ehl of Flower Mound, TX and Dan Ehl of AZ; a sister-in-law, Mary Armbruster of Maquoketa, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, LeRoy Ries, Vernon Ries, and Loras “Chief” (Betty) Ries.

The family of Thomas would like to thank the Farley Emergency Medical Services, Tri-State Dialysis and the Drs. And staff at Finley Hospital for all the wonderful care given to Tom.

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

Gerald W. Doyle

Gerald W. Doyle, 88, passed away Sunday, February 11th, at home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 16th, at St. Raphael Cathedral with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. until time of mass Friday at the church. Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors by American Legion Post #6. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.

Gerald was born at home in Dubuque, IA, on October 12th 1929, the youngest son of Joseph and Rachael (Barry) Doyle.

After graduating from Dowling High School in Des Moines, IA, Gerald served in the U.S. Army during the Korean war. Upon his return home, he married his sweetheart, the girl next door, MaryAnn Theiler. He then moved on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa, and later his Master’s Degree in counseling from the University of Wisconsin, Platteville. For over 30 years, he served as a District Supervisor for Vocational Rehabilitation for the State of Iowa.

Gerald enjoyed music, reading, and traveling with his wife. He was an active member of the Dubuque Men’s Choir as well as the St. Patrick’s and Cathedral Choirs. He was also an avid reader of topics from politics to historical fiction, and could frequently be found in his favorite chair either with his nose in the daily newspaper or listening to an Iowa Hawkeye game.

He is survived by his wife of almost 65 years, MaryAnn (Pat); as well as his children Mark, Susan, Tim (Angie), Patrick, and John (Carrie). He also leaves behind 13 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; and his sisters Kathleen Doyle, OSB of Duluth, MN, and Veronica Benetti, of Belmond, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, several siblings, and his son-in-law Dan Black.

In lieu of flowers a Gerald W. Doyle memorial fund will be established.

Earl J. Brehm

Earl J. Brehm, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa, formerly from north of Centralia, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 12, 2018 at his home in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Earl may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Thursday, February 15, 2018 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m., Friday at the church. Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, IA is in charge of arrangements.

Services for Earl will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, February 16, 2018 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding, Rev. Richard Kuhn concelebrating, Deacon Dan O’Connell assisting. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Centralia, Iowa.

Earl was born on December 17, 1924, at Lore, north of Asbury, to Theresa (Schiessl) and John L. Brehm. Earl was the oldest of 10 children and grew up in Lore and rural Peosta, helping his dad on the family farm.

On May 3, 1950, Earl married Esther Ann Koch of Hickory Valley at St. Boniface, New Vienna. They raised 10 children on their dairy and hog farm north of Centralia: Ken (and the late Connie) of Holy Cross; Mary (Paul) Mausser, of Epworth; Fritz (Carol), of Placid; Tom (Molly), of Placid; Jack (Dianne), of Peosta; Carl (Debbie), of Rickardsville; Mike (Sara), of Peosta; Ann (Brian) Ruden, of Dubuque; Steve (Sharon), of Centralia; Susan Brehm (Kevin Doolan), of Chicago; and special family Sandy and Jerry Powers and their children.

Earl and Esther were blessed with 55 grandchildren and (at last count) 66 great-grandchildren. Family was the joy of Dad’s life. He never passed up a chance to rub the head of a little nütnik, butter a cracker, read about going downhill through a chicken yard, lend a hand, or eat . . . anything, but preferably something sweet. His characteristic words often funnily come out of the mouths of those grandchildren and little great-grandchildren, and he regularly imparted some bit of wisdom without quite telling you what you should do.

Also surviving are Earl’s siblings, Marion Connolly, of Dubuque, Rita Ernst and Clara Ernst, of Bellevue, Paul, of Dubuque, and Kay (John) Gaul, of Peosta; as well as a brother-in-law, Tom (June) Smith, of Caledonia, Ill., and sisters-in-law Mildred Wente, of New Vienna, and Dorothy (Bob) Pitz, of Epworth.

Earl was a man who lived his faith every day and prayed at Holy Family New Melleray, Annunciation Catholic Church in Lattnerville, and St. John the Baptist, Peosta. He read anything and everything he could get his hands on-from Louis L’Amour to the great classics-and enjoyed cracking black walnuts for the family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two grandsons, Davy and Earl, a brother, Bill, three sisters, Helen Steffen, Theresa Smith, and Margaret Brehm, and his well-loved brothers-in-law and sister-in-law.

The family is deeply grateful for the loving care provided to Dad by No place Like Home over the past several years and in particular those who went well beyond to comfort and encourage him and respect his dignity: Dianne Stecklein, Tom Lentner, Steven Kingsolver, Jan Thomas, and Ann Schaal. We cannot thank you enough.

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

Kenneth J. Dietz

Kenneth J. Dietz 83 of Dubuque passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m.; Friday, February 16, 2018 at the Church of the Resurrection. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery with Military Honors. Family will greet friends from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, February 15th at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Rd with a 6:30 pm Scripture Service.

Kenneth was born April 28, 1934 in Dubuque the son of Clarence and Christine (Koster) Dietz. Kenneth served his country in the US Army 1954-1956 before being Honorably Discharged. He married Sylvia J. Herbst on October 8, 1960 at St. Philomena Catholic Church in Asbury. Kenneth was a truck driver for Ruan and for Milligan Brothers retiring in 1991. Ken enjoyed playing euchre, and horseshoe. He was a Cubs fan and loved Nascar racing. He was a member of Resurrection parish and Teamster’s Union Local 421.

Survivors include his wife, Sylvia; children; William (Maria) Dietz, Beth (Guy) Parkin, Patrick (Rene) Dietz; grandchildren, Curtis (Rebecca Daniels), Dalton, Emma, Maggie Dietz, and Lucas and Trevor Parkin; step-grandchildren, Gage Brosius, Zach (Jackie) Crowe and Brittany (Bill) Boan; three step great-grandchildren; grand puppies; and brothers, Clarence “Bud” (Gert) Dietz, and John “Jack” Dietz; brother and sister in-laws, Bill Theisen, Irene Herbst; and Jim (Anita) Gulyash; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister in infancy Jean Marie; two sisters Myrene and Loaine ; and in-laws, Ken Schromen, Charles (Florence) Weiland, Charles (Arlene) Chapman, Thomas (Roslyn) Ehrlich, Leo J. Herbst, Betty Theisen, and Leo (Lavon) Abitz.

The family would also like to thank staff at Finely Hospital as well as Hospice of Dubuque and Hawkeye Care Center for your care and concern during this time.

A Kenneth J. Dietz Memorial Fund has been established.

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

David N. Joy

David N. “Dave” Joy, age 57, of Kieler, Wisconsin, was called home suddenly at 7:18 a.m., on Sunday, February 11, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center-Dubuque, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Dave’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, February 16, 2018, at the Immaculate Conception Church, Kieler, Wisconsin, with Rev. Bernard E. Rott officiating. To celebrate Dave’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., on Thursday, February 15, 2018, at the Parish Center at the Immaculate Conception Church, 3685 County Road HHH, Kieler, Wisconsin, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 2:45 p.m., and also from 9:30 a.m., until the time of services at 10:30 a.m., on Friday at the Church. Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery. Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, is in charge of arrangements.

Dave was born on July 6, 1960, in Eastman, Wisconsin, son of Bernard and Norene (Wanamaker) Joy.

Dave grew up on the family farm, but would eventually venture off after high school to continue his education and soon begin his career in the Ag dealership industry with the John Deere dealership in Bloomington. While living there, he would meet, and within a year, marry the love of his life, Terri Wilgenbusch. They were united in marriage on July 20, 1985, at St. Joseph Church in Rickardsville, Iowa. Dave continued to work in Bloomington until a position at the John Deere Dealership in Cuba City caught his eye. The family decided to move to continue down Dave’s career path and began establishing more family roots in their new community. Dave eventually discovered his final working destination at Ritchies Case/IH dealership in Darlington. Dave absolutely enjoyed his new position and was able to put his “natural people skills” to good use. He not only knew his business inside and out, but also knew everyone around him, most by name, and always had a kind word for all he dealt with. Dave was a fun loving man, with a great sense of humor, who was often referred to as a “big kid” himself. Dave was well known for his uncanny ability to get right down on the floor and play with his kids when they were small, and now that tradition continues with his grandkids. Dave also had a great appreciation for photography and was well known for “stopping” alongside the road to take a quick photo of a spectacular sunrise to share with his family and friends. Above all though, Dave loved his family and the simple pleasures in life. He made sure no one ever doubted his love and devotion for them through both his words and actions. We are devastated at the sudden loss of our dear husband, dad, grandpa, brother and friend; but we know and trust that he will be watching over us through each and every day as the sun continues to rise and set on the abundance of beautiful memories he leaves behind. Thank you Dave for all of the real love and JOY you shared so easily along your much too short 57 year earthly journey with us. Our lives will never be the same without you, and they are definitely better because of you!

Those left to cherish Dave’s memory include

his wife,
Terri Joy, Kieler, WI;

his children,
Amanda (Zach) Duerksen, Dubuque, IA,
Heather Joy, Kieler, WI,
Melissa (Brad) Huekels, Asbury, IA
and Tyler Joy, Kieler, WI;

his grandsons,
Noah Duerksen and Archer Huekels;

,his siblings,
Mike (Sharon) Joy, Oconomowoc, WI,
Mary (Greg) Fisher, Eastman, WI,
Jim (Sharon) Joy, Fond du Lac, WI,
Rob (Trudy) Joy, Eastman, WI,
Mark Joy, Eastman, WI,
Julie (Michael) Garcia Joy, Mc Clean, VA
and Pat (Vicki) Joy, Eastman, WI;

his in-laws,
Eldon (Gin) Wilgenbusch, Rickardsville, IA;

and many nieces and nephews.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents.

A David N. “Dave” Joy memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Dave’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the 1st Responders from Dickeyville and Jamestown, the Grant County Sheriff Department, Dr. Ram, and everyone in the Mercy Cardiac Unit and Emergency Room, for all of their kind, professional and attentive care of Dave, and his entire family.

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

Mary Elizabeth Eiffes

Mary Elizabeth (Block) Eiffes, 75, died on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at home surrounded by her loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 17, at Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque, with the Rev. Andrew Marr officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation with family and friends will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, February 16, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Key West.

Mary was born October 2, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Joseph and Matilda Spark. She married Richard R. Block on October 10, 1964, and to this union four children were born. She later married Paul J. Eiffes on September 27, 2008.

Mary graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1960. She went to work at Frommelt’s, working as a seamstress, and continued working there when the company was later purchased by Rite Hite. After retiring from Rite Hite, she continued to work part time at Home Instead, helping to care for people so they could remain in their homes.

Mary’s faith was strong, and she was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and later Church of the Resurrection. She loved traveling, and her trips with Paul and her children and grandchildren included Mexico, Punta Cana and Disney World. She enjoyed hosting for holidays and family events. There was never a shortage of food when Mary was planning a family trip or meal.

Mary was devoted to her family. She lovingly raised her children and adored her grandchildren, faithfully attending their activities and performances. She was very proud of all of their achievements. She will be dearly missed by all those who loved her.

Mary is survived by her husband, Paul; her first husband, Richard; her children, Richard (Kathy) Block Jr., of Dubuque, Maryjo (Michael) Williams, of Asbury, Karla (John) Scherf, of Dubuque, and David (Amy) Block, of Dubuque; 17 grandchildren, Hunter, Jackson and Landon Block, Madisyn and Brooklyn Bennett, Noah McGowan, Michaela, Allison, Cassandra and Nathaniel Williams, and Cody, Logan, Natalie, Robert, Justin and Tyler Scherf; Kadin Perry; a great-grandchild on the way; her sister, Patricia (David) Cosley, of Dubuque; and her nieces, Lysa Cosley, of Dubuque, and Lynda (Scott) Bohlmann, of Cedar Falls.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like give a special thank-you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Sarah for her care and compassion for Mary.