Obituaries Archive

Bob Schuster

Bob Schuster, age 71, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly at 3:25 p.m., on Friday, February 9, 2018, at home. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church, 1701 Rhomberg Ave, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. Family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main St. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Bob was born on September 30, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Donald and Agnes (Heller) Schuster. He married Carol Vogel on September 7, 1968.

Bob enjoyed walks along the Lock and Dam, always picking up trash to preserve the environment for everyone to enjoy. He enjoyed watching the eagles and fishing, working in the yard, putzing in his workshop and spending time with his family. Bob was an avid reader, and lived a quiet and content life.

Surviving are his wife,
Carol Schuster, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Julianne (Mike) Sixel,
Chris (Tracy) Schuster,
Stacie (Greg) Halverson,
Stephanie (Nick) Maglis
and Alexander (fiancée Nicole) Schuster;

his grandchildren,
Nick, Jon, Matt and Kate Halverson, Ben and Nathan Sixel, Abby Schuster, Sophia, Amelia and Chloe Maglis;

his sisters,
Lavonne “Bonnie” Bigelow
and Jane Lampe;

and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Wilbur “Bill” (Joyce) Vogel; and 2 brothers-in-law, Eldon “Butch” Bigelow and Tom Lampe.

A Robert W. Schuster memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

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

Harold D. Davis

Harold D. Davis, 70, of Cascade, IA and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 9, 2017 at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque, IA.

Friends and relatives of Harold may call from 3 to 8 p.m., Sunday, February 11, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, IA, where a wake service will be held at 2:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

Services for Harold will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, February 12, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Douglas Loecke presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, IA with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Harold was born September 2, 1947 in Postville, IA, son of Oscar and Louise (Erb) Davis. He was a graduate of MFL High School and the University of Wisconsin in Plattville, WI. On August 12, 2005 he was united in marriage to Linda (Markus) Takes in St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, IA.

He was a teacher and also was employed as a postal carrier, he retired from the Dubuque post office. He was also a finished carpenter. He served for 22 years in the Army and the National Guard.

He was a member of St. Matthias parish in Cascade and its Piano Choir. He was also a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528. He was an avid Cubs and Hawkeye fan. Harold was an umpire for 40 years, and referee official for 35 years. He was inducted into the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Takes Davis of Cascade, IA, one daughter, Barb Davis of Ankeny, IA; a son Jim (Mandy) Davis of Marietta, GA; two grandchildren, Charlotte and Oliver Davis; two step children, John (Ginger) Takes of Dubuque, IA, and Jeanine Takes (fiancé, Steve Bethel) of Gilbert, AZ; a brother, Duaine (Linda) Davis of Luana, IA, and a sister, Diane (Curt) Kraus of Postville, IA; brothers and sisters-in-law, Mary Jane Boleyn of Dubuque, IA, Dorrance (Ida) Markus of East Moline, IL, JoAnn Kremer of Farley, IA and Ron (Gloria) Markus of Dubuque, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister-in-law, Gerry Williams; and two brothers-in-law, LaVern Markus and Ben Markus.

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

Kathleen F. Birch

Kathleen Frances (Rettenmaier) Birch 92 of Dubuque, died Thursday, February 8, 2018 in Dubuque of complications from strokes. She was born to Francis and Henrietta Rettenmaier as their sixth child, in Dubuque, IA on May 2, 1925. She grew up and lived her entire life in Dubuque.

She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1943. During WWII, she worked as a telephone operator for Bell Telephone Company while attending high school and following graduation. She married Howard A. Birch on June 12, 1946, he passed away on April 9, 1993 and spent her life as a communicant of Sacred Heart, and later St. Anthony’s in Dubuque. She worked as a telephone operator and gift wrapper at Stampfer’s Department Store until they closed in 1981. Following that, she was a store manager of the GNC at the Kennedy Mall until she retired in 1990.

Mrs. Birch belonged to a social dinner and coffee group for many years. She and her husband traveled annually with a group of former members of the USS San Francisco, visiting many areas of the US and Europe and reuniting after their many tours of duty during WWII. Both groups contributed a great deal of joy and good memories to the lives of both Mrs. Birch and her husband.

She was preceded in death by her husband Howard in 1993, father Francis (age 89) in 1976 and mother Henrietta (age 96) in 1988, sisters Sylvia and Marion in 1925, Geraldine in 2013, brothers Edward in 1956, Charles in 2011, and grandson John of Davenport, IA in 2017.

She is survived by her four children; Geraldine Birch Hurst of Vancouver, WA, Diane M. and James R. Birch (Laurie) of Dubuque, and William X Birch (Lynn) of Bolingbrook, IL; granddaughters, Dr. Kristine Hurst-Wajszczuk (Joseph) of Fultondale, AL. and Teri Birch (widow of John) of Davenport, IA; grandsons, Brian J. Hurst (Elisabeth) of Portland, OR, Chris J. Birch (Crystal) of Olive Branch, MS, Lee R. Birch (Jodi) of Parkersburg, IA, and Brandon I. Birch of Bolingbrook, IL. She has 2 great granddaughters and 3 great grandsons.

Visiting hours will be at Hoffmann-Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque on Sunday, February 11, 2018 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church on Monday, February 12, 2018 at 10:00 am. Conducted by Rev. Steven Rosonke. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

The family extends a special thank you to the staff at University of Iowa hospitals, Iowa City.

A memorial fund has been established in Kathleen’s memory.

Online condolences may be left at www.hskfh.com

Jesse James Lutgen

Jesse James Lutgen, 32, of East Dubuque, IL formerly of Dubuque passed away on February 7, 2018 from complications of Diabetes.

Funeral mass will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 12th, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Burial will be at a later date in St. Lawrence Cemetery, Otter Creek. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. Monday at the church until time of mass. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is in charge of arrangements.

Jesse was born on July 1, 1985 in Dubuque, Iowa the son of David L. and Janelle (Huekels) Lutgen. He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 2003 and worked for HyVee in Dubuque and lastly for Nordstroms.

Jesse was an avid Iowa Hawkeye, Chicago Cubs, and Green Bay Packer fan, he also enjoyed Disc Golf and was a member of the Dubuque Disc Golf Club; but he especially loved his cousins and spending time with them.

He is survived by his mother Janelle Lutgen; his sister Theresa Lutgen; and his brother David Lee Lutgen, all of Bernard; along with many close cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father David Lutgen; his grandparents; his uncle Alan Lattner and his aunt Carol Lutgen.

In lieu of flowers a Jesse James Lutgen Memorial fund will be established.

Millie Hoerner

Millie Hoerner, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, died on February 7, 2018, at Stonehill Care Center.

The funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, February 12, at St. Joseph Church Key West with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday, February 11, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Key West, IA, where a prayer service will be held at 1:00 p.m.

Millie was born on November 14, 1926, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Roy and Minnie (Kramer) Frederick. After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School, Millie worked as a secretary for Farley and Loetscher Manufacturing Company.

She married Robert “Bob” Hoerner on May 16, 1949, in Sioux Falls, SD, and soon after mothering and homemaking became her highest priority.

Once her children were grown, Millie was easeful, graceful, and useful in her role as teacher’s aide for learning disabled children in the Dubuque Community Schools, nurturing the students she worked with as if they were her own. Special friendships were formed during those years that remain today, and working with special needs children was one more way for Millie to share joy and love, changing lives with her positive influence.

Millie also enjoyed playing cards, caring for birds and flowers, dancing, traveling with her husband, and spending time with friends and family. Her grandchildren brightened her life and gave her great-grandchildren to add even more fun. She lived the last years of her life for the pleasure of being with her brood and flock.

She was a member of the St. Gerard’s Mother’s Club, the Rosary Society in Key West, was active in her support of Area Residential Care, and volunteered in countless anonymous public and private situations.

Surviving are six of Millie and Bob’s seven children: Julie Lester (special friend Leonel Vasquez), of Iowa City; Jerry (Marianne) Hoerner, of Key West, IA; Ted (Stacy) Hoerner, of Pittsburgh, PA; Dan (Linda) Hoerner, of Dubuque; Marianne Maili, of Chicago, IL; and Nancy (Al) Ronek, of Peosta, IA. Her heart also remains in her grandchildren: Jared and Audrey Lester; Adam (Stephanie) Hoerner, Callie (Bobby) Schauer, and Luke Hoerner; Jason, Jordan and Abbie Hoerner; Carlie and Greta Hoerner; Yancy and Axel (Irène) Choquet; and Quinn, Max, Lori and Sadie Ronek; and in her beloved great-grandchildren Faith, Eddie, and Isabelle Millie Schauer; and Dominic, Brody, Paisley, and Ethan Hoerner. Her surviving sisters and brothers in-law are Jean and Ruth Frederick; Phyllis Hoerner; Jim and Sally Hoerner; Darlene (Hoerner) and Donny Schmitt; and Ann Lambe. many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their children.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and Roy; her husband Bob; her first-born, son Tommy, on Feb. 23, 1961; two brothers Bud and Eldie Frederick; and several extended family and life-long friends.

The family wishes to thank the compassionate caregivers at Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, along with countless friends and family who brightened and warmed Millie’s life and have offered support and kindness to her family.

In lieu of flowers, a Millie Hoerner Memorial Fund has been established which the family will distribute among organizations close to Millie’s heart.

Irene C. Theobald

Irene C. Theobald, age 96, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:40 p.m., on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at Ennoble Skilled Nursing and Rehab, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Irene’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. To celebrate Irene’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, February 9, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Entombment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Irene was born on April 3, 1921, in Epworth, Iowa, daughter of Martin and Elizabeth (Urbain) Kennedy.

Irene was united in marriage to the love of her life, Sgt. John P. “Honest John” Theobald, on December 18, 1943, at St. John’s Church in Placid, Iowa. They were blessed with 70 wonderful years together, and 6 loving children, before he was called home ahead of her on May 29, 2014. Irene was completely devoted to her role of loving wife, mother and homemaker. Where family was concerned, Irene was always there to make sure everyone understood clearly that they were forever loved, cared for, appreciated and adored. Irene always maintained a perfect home-life for her family and her skills have systematically continued to trickle down through the generations whom follow her wonderful example. Irene completely embraced and lived by a very simple principle which was quite evident throughout her daily life; “Work is Love Made Visible!” Faith was also an integral part of Irene’s life and she was a long-time and prayerful member of Sacred Heart Church. Our hearts ache today with the very real sorrow of losing our sweet Irene upon the completion of her 96 year earthly journey. We are grateful for the time we had, for the love we shared, the memories she leaves behind, the work which made love visible, and the peace we surely possess in trusting that we’ll all see her and John again one day. Thank you for all you did for us Irene and may the Lord bless you and keep you safe in His loving arms until we meet again.

Those left to cherish Irene’s memory include

her children,
Richard John (Cathy) Theobald, Asbury, IA,
Ronald Edward (Kathy) Theobald, Dubuque, IA,
Randy Martin (Sue Young) Theobald, Farley, IA,
Roger Charles Theobald, Dubuque, IA,
Lynn Elizabeth (William) Meyer, Asbury, IA
and John Jacob “Jake” (David) Theobald, Dubuque, IA;

13 grandchildren;
Kris (Steve) Link, Timothy (Shamay) Theobald, Lynn (Josh) Bestold, Elizabeth (Nicholas) Champagne, Jennifer (Michael) Troxel, Irene Ryan, Janna (Miguel) Cruz, Shawntê (fiancé Marcus) White, Shannon (Rob) Fader, Tara (Justin) Dolezal, Matthew Meyer, Katelyn (Vadim Boyko) Meyer and Michael (Alicia) Meyer;

and 32 great-grandchildren.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband, Sgt. John P. Theobald; a grandson, Micah Theobald; and her 7 siblings, Clarence (Leona) Kennedy, Mary Kennedy, Quirin (Irene) Kennedy, Francis “Frank” (Anastasia) Kennedy, Martin (Helen) Kennedy, Elizabeth (Ralph) Kraus and Helen (John) Deckert.

An Irene C. Theobald memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

Irene’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Ennoble Manor, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their kind, loving and compassionate care of Irene, and her family.

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

Donald A. Riesberg

Donald A. Riesberg, 78, of Dyersville passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Finley Hospital in Dubuque after a brief illness.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Sunday, February 11, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Monday 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, February 12, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate and Deacon Roger Riesberg will assist and be the homilist.

Don was born May 19, 1939, in New Vienna the son of Clarence and Berneice (Boge) Riesberg. He grew up in New Vienna and graduated from St. Boniface High School with the Class of 1957. He married Donna Manternach on June 30, 1962 at St. Mary Catholic Church in Cascade. Together they had three daughters.

Don spent the majority of his career employed by John Deere, retiring in 1992. He enjoyed many activities including golf, playing cards, traveling and spending time with family.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years, Donna, 3 daughters: Marilyn (Bart) Werner of Delaware, Iowa, Wanda (Ken) Linderwell of Manchester and Annette (Dan) Eckert of Spirit Lake; 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; siblings: Judy (Roger) Westemeier, Justin “Sarge” (Mary Lynn) Riesberg, Roger (Kathy) Riesberg, and Clair (Doris) Riesberg all of Dyersville; and in-laws from the Manternach family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a great grandson, a sister-in-law, Jean Riesberg, and a nephew, Randy Westemeier.

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

Wayne A. Ring

Wayne Anthony Ring, 58, of Dubuque passed away Tuesday, February 6, 2018 at home. A private family celebration of life service will be held at a later date.

Wayne was born on November 5, 1959 in Dubuque the son of Robert A. and Virginia (Hubbard) Ring and his step father Herman Motsch. He worked at the former Dubuque Packing Co, Farmland, and FDL and was a member of the UFCW local 150A. He lastly worked for HyVee.

Wayne was a caring, giving, gentle soul. The simple things in life were a joy to him. Going for a walk, shooting a game or two of pool, going to the thrift stores to hunt for cut glass items for his collection, and listening to the radio, especially when the Cubs or Bulls were playing, or the trivia games where he could win free tickets were some of his favorites. He will be sadly missed.

He is survived by his sisters Linda (Don) Slattery and Barbara McDermott both of Dubuque and a brother Daniel Ring of Bernard, a sister-in-law Sandy Ring, his stepfather Herman Motsch, and step sister Donna Christensen along with nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Ring, his mother Virginia Motsch, a brother Randall Ring, a sister Susan Doerr, and a step sister Carol Upmann.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Richard L. Wagner

Richard L. Wagner, 91, of Dubuque died Monday, February 05, 2018 at home. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Friday 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 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Raphael’s Cathedral. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Richard was born April 9, 1926 in Dubuque, IA, son of Matthew and Clara (Gehler) Wagner. He married the love of his life Mary Charlene Coakley on September 7, 1949 in Otter Creek, Iowa. They were happily married for 52 years. Charlene preceded him in death in 2001.

Richard Wagner worked at Stanley Home Products for 34 years as the warehouse manager. He then worked at Dubuque Insulation and Siding for over 20 years as their warehouse manager where he retired at the age of 72 years old. He was a very hard working man who never complained about anything and was a person who would give his shirt off his back to help someone else.

Richard loved calling square dancing, going out for dinner, dancing, and ice cream with his friends and family. He was very successful with being an award winning horseshoe player and baseball player. Richard enjoyed riding his bike, playing cards, and walking at the arboretum. His faith was very important to him. He was a longtime member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral where he ushered for 20 years. Richard loved spending his time with his family. The most precious thing to him was his granddaughter Katelyn. He loved traveling the countryside while watching his granddaughter perform. He traveled all over the U.S. with his family and never missed a single singing or dance competition of hers. Richard was one of the most loving, genuine, and sweetest men you could have ever met. He will be missed dearly by his family and friends.

Richard is survived by his only daughter, Linda (David) Soat of Dubuque; and only granddaughter Katelyn (Special friend, Brandon Weber) Soat of Dubuque; and a brother, Merlin (Mary) Wagner of LaMotte.

He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Rita Hartman and Aggie Williamson.

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

Richard Wagner memorial fund has been established.

A special thanks to Dr. Abou-Arab, Dr. Waldo Guerrero, Dr. Regan Wolbers, Juliane Rossman, The VA Clinic, David Soat, Brandon Weber, Holly Campbell, Levi Hongsermeier, Makenna Bullerman, Tom, By Your Side Care, and many others who took care of Richard.

Marvin J. Rolfes

Marvin J. Rolfes, 78, of Colesburg, passed away Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Edgewood Convalescent Home in Edgewood.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 pm Friday, February 9, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Saturday from 9 – 10 am at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, February 10, 2018, SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Petersburg with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. John O’Connor will officiate.

Marvin was born August 24, 1939, near Petersburg the son of Lawrence and Mathilda (Willenbring) Rolfes. He married Patricia Goedken on April 8, 1967, in Petersburg. She preceded him in death on August 8, 1976. He later married Janet Vorwald Morley on December 26, 1987, in Petersburg. Marvin farmed on his family dairy farm his entire life.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Rolfes; 7 children: Robert Rolfes and William Rolfes both of Petersburg, Kathleen Hefel of Dyersville, Lori (Larry) Clark of Osage, Lana (Douglas) Hollar of Calmar, Lisa (Todd) Miller of Charles City and Lee (Christina) Morley of Greenville, SC; grandchildren: Nicki (Nick) Klein, Adam Rolfes, Aaron (Jenna) Hefel, Shana Wyman, Christopher (Paige) Clark, Caleb (Hailey) Clark, Dusty (Marshall) Perkins, Nathan (Heather) Hollar, Brandon (Tessa) Miller, Jacob Miller, Shane Miller, Zackary (Sasha) Morley and Heather (Will Thompson) Morley; 11 great grandchildren; in-laws: Germaine Goedken Lavern (Patsy) Goedken, John (Marilyn) Goedken, Norma Brunsman, Inez (Francis) Hermsen, Valeria Bockenstedt, Carol (Dale) Clemen, Mary (Mike) Klein, Barbara (Roger) Bear, Bill Wright, Pat (Mark) Larson, Cindy (Jim) Johnson, Jane (Dave) Moose, Jennifer (Gary) Schroeder, Jeff (Ross) Vorwald and Jeri (Bill) Vincent.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Patricia, an infant son, Thomas Rolfes in 1976, a daughter-in-law, Kim Rolfes; a sister: Mary Ann Willenborg, and a brother and sister in infancy; in-laws: Gilbert Goedken, Helen (Emil) Wilgenbusch, Stella (Leo) Demmer, Mary Lou (Elmer) Engelken, Vernon Brunsman, Irvin Bockenstedt, Kathleen Wright.

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

Janet D. Howell

Janet D. Howell, 65, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side at 5:51 P.M. on Tuesday, February 6, 2018.

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Janet on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Janet Denise Horkheimer was born on February 21, 1952 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Edwin and Irene (Broadhead) Horkheimer. She grew up in Dubuque and married Dennis Howell August 16, 1969 and they had three children together. They later divorced in 1991.

Janet worked for several years at DynaGear, Hoof, Wady’s and Pacific Coast Feather Factory. She enjoyed fishing, puzzles, reading, playing dice and cards, and spending time with her grandchildren and three boys.

She is survived by her three boys, Jeffrey (Danielle) Howell of Maquoketa, IA, Duane (Dana) Howell of Maquoketa, IA, and Jeromy (Brandi) Howell of Maquoketa, IA; 11 grandchildren, Meagan, Taylan, Katelynn, Kansas, Theresa, Aubrey, Alison, Tinlsey, Marcus, Tayden and Teagyn; her siblings, John (Carol) Horkheimer of Dubuque, IA, Paul (Judy) Horkheimer of Dubuque, IA, and Mary Wharton of Dubuque, IA; many nieces and nephews; and her aunts and uncles, Doris Parr of Soldiers Grove, WI, Helen (Donnie) Parr of Viroqua, WI, George (LuAnn) Broadhead of WI, Jim (Liz) Broadhead of WI, Darrel Broadhead of WI, and Eustace Horkheimer of MI. She was preceded in death by her parents, nephew Jimmy Wharton, granddaughters Averee, Olivia and Gabriella Howell, and special friend Dave Leibfried.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Janet D. Howell memorial fund has been established.

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

Jeane E. Mika

Jeanne E. Mika, 90, of 511 County Rd Z, Hazel Green, WI, passed away at 10:30 p.m. Sunday, February 4, 2018 at home to be with her husband Donald.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 17, 2018 at the Gathering Place at the Dominican Motherhouse at Sinsinawa, with Fr. Louis Morrone, OP, Fr. Andrew Carl Wisdom, OP, Fr. Jack Risley OP, and Fr. Dan Davis, OP, concelebrating. Burial will be in St. Clara Cemetery.

Visitation will be after 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 17th at the Gathering Place. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Jeanne was born on July 8, 1927 in St. Paul, MN, the daughter of George and Rose (Brosseau) Trefethen. She was united in marriage to Donald J. Mika on November 25, 1946 at Holy Rosary Church in Minneapolis. He preceded her in death on February 13, 2010.

She modeled women’s clothing, and was a receptionist in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. She was voted top receptionist three different times for the Minneapolis region.

Surviving is a daughter, Sister Debra Mika, OP, of Sinsinawa, WI; a brother, Todd (Joyce) Trefethen of Crosby, MN; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Rose; her husband, Donald; and a sister Phyllis Trefethen.

Memorials may be sent to the Sinsinawa Dominicans and Hospice of Dubuque.

Sister Debra wishes to thank Dr. Greg Vandigo, Dr. Bruce Obbink, and the staff and nurses from Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Stephanie, Stacey, Melanie, Katie G. and Kathy P. for their wonderful care and support.

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

Dennis U. Recker

Dennis U. Recker, 77, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, February 06, 2018 at 3:50 a.m. at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester, Iowa.

Friends and family of Dennis may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Friday, February 9, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Concelebrating will be Rev. Aloysius Vorwald. Friends may also call after 10:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. Services for Dennis will be held at noon on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa with Rev Dennis Quint Presiding. A private family burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery at a later date.

Dennis was born on September 7, 1940 in New Vienna, Iowa, son of Leo and Henrietta (Schilmoeller) Recker.

He received his education in the New Vienna area school system, and was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works for 34 years, followed by an abundant, well deserved retirement. On August 25, 1962 he was united in marriage to JoAnn L. Vaske at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa. She preceded him in death on March 10, 2014. He enjoyed fishing on the Mississippi. Dennis also had a great love for golf. Dennis was a committed, selfless man, especially to his wife, JoAnn. He was a very proud grandfather.

He was a member of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Parish, and the Dyersville American Legion Post #137. Dennis served proudly in the Army Reserves.

He is survived by his two sons, Jeff Recker of New Port Richey, Fl and Randy Recker of Plantation, FL; one granddaughter, Cassandra Recker and a great granddaughter, Brianna Recker; his siblings, Ethel Vorwald of Placid, Cy Recker of New Vienna, Gladys Wessels of Dyersville, Doris Wright of Montgomery,IL, Norma (Ken) Eike of Manchester, Roger (Linda) Recker of Ryan, Joyce (Leo) Davidshofer of Dubuque, Larry (Alice) Recker of Tucson, AZ; brothers and sisters-in-laws, Joe (Diane) Vaske of Freeport, IL, Jim (Karin) Vaske of Inver Grove Heights, MN, Mary (Rick) Rauen of Farley, Linda (Bob) Sigwarth and Jack Banwarth both of Dubuque.

He is also preceded in death by his parents Leo and Henrietta; four brothers, Earl Recker, Jim Recker, Melvin and Marvin Recker (infancy); his father and mother-in-law, Joseph and Louise Vaske; sister-in-law, Kay Banwarth and three brothers-in-laws, Paul Vorwald, Ernst Wessels and Wayne Wright.

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

Joey R. Adams

Joey R. Adams, 57, of Kieler, WI passed away on February 2, 2018 at his parents home in Dickelville, WI after a battle with cancer.

Funeral mass will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday, February 10th, 2018 at Kieler Immaculate Conception Church with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Family and friends may gather from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass. Burial will follow in Hillside Cemetery in Lancaster, WI. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Joey was born on February 19, 1960 in Lancaster, WI the son of Richard and Janis (Bass) Adams. He attended school in Cuba City and worked as a master carpenter his whole life.

He loved working with his hands and building things in his garage. He also enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, horses and gardening. Joey loved his two daughters and his family and especially loved spending time with them during the holidays.

He is survived by his daughters, Crissy (Mike) Gantenbein and Tammy (Brandon) Gann, both of Texas; three grandsons, Lucas & Wyatt Gann and Tanner Gantenbein; his parents, Richard & Janis Adams, of Dickeyville; his siblings, Randy Adams, Lyle Adams and Linda Adams.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Clifford and Beatrice Bass and Frank and Elizabeth Adams and his sister Julie Weber.

Rodney E. Benedix

Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix, 62, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Rod’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Friday, February 9, 2018, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Cremation rites have been accorded.

Rodney Eugene Benedix was born on October 5, 1955 in Sioux City, Iowa, to Dale Eugene and Dolores Virginia (Wendel) Benedix. Rod was a 1973 graduate of Moville, Iowa High School and then earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa in 1977 and his music endorsement from Loras College in Dubuque in 1992.

He married Rebecca Ann Conry on July 28, 1979 in Moville, Iowa and they had two children, Ashley Ann-Marie and Katherine JoAnn.

Rod first worked as the K-5 Elementary Music Instructor for the Midland Community Schools from 1992 to 1998. He then became the 6th thru 8th grade Vocal Music Instructor for Maquoketa Community Schools from 1998 to 2014.

Rod was of the Lutheran faith being baptized on November 27, 1955 in Correctionville, Iowa, and confirmed on May 4, 1969 in Holstein, Iowa. He had been a longtime member of First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa where he had served as a part-time organist from 1983 to 2017.

He had also been a former member of the Iowa State Education Association and the Iowa Choral Directors Association.

Rod loved his family and especially loved giving presents at Christmas and birthdays. He especially enjoyed cooking Thanksgiving dinner with his Aunt Katherine for 20 years, having lunch with Katie, always knowing that Ashley had his back, watching Becky change the decorating in the house each and every holiday, taking his mom out to lunch at Red Lobster and shopping with her at Younkers, and family time with his girls.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Rebecca “Becky” Benedix of Maquoketa, IA; daughters, Ashley Ann-Marie Benedix of Beaver Dam, WI, and Katherine JoAnn Benedix of Marion, IA; his mother Dolores Benedix of Moville, IA; brothers, Steven Benedix of Renton, WA, Kelly (Suzanne) Benedix of Moville, IA, and Brian (Rochelle Ehlers) Benedix of Moville, IA; sisters, Lisa (Eric) Hunter of Federal Way, WA, and Kimberly (Alberto) Laureano of Temple, TX; step-mother-in-law, Joyce Conry of Orange City, IA; brother-in-law, Dennis (Rita) Conry of Moville, IA; sisters-in-law, Leanna Bottger of Moville, IA, and Janette Conry of West Des Moines, IA; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews; and special canine granddogs, Cali and Betsy; and grandcat, Tigger.

He was preceded in death by his father Dale Benedix, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Don and Shirley Conry, maternal grandparents Emile and Ida Wendel, paternal grandparents Fred and Marie Benedix, and numerous aunts and uncles.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Rodney E. “Rod” Benedix memorial fund has been established with funds being divided towards the following: a scholarship for a Maquoketa High School graduate who is a continuing vocal music major, First Lutheran Church Choir fund, and Trinity Lutheran Church in Moville, Iowa towards the kitchen fund.

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