Obituaries Archive

Shella Kobza

After a courageous battle with breast cancer for several years, Shella Kobza, 84, of Dubuque passed away on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center, with her dedicated son, Daryl at her side.

Funeral services will be 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, February 28 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road, with Sr. Margaret Anne Kramer officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Friends may call from 5:00-7:00 p.m., Tuesday at the funeral home.

Shella was born on January 24, 1934 in Beech Bottom, West Virginia the daughter of, Detmer and Jessica Eicholtz. She attended Wellsburg high school in West Virginia, class of 1951, where she played women’s basketball, played piano and sang, participated in many missionary camps and was lead majorette in the marching band.

In 1954 she graduated from Wheeling Hospital School of Nursing, The Sisters of Saint Joseph, the Mother Hospital of West Virginia. She started her career in nursing at Wheeling Hospital and eventually became house supervisor.

She met the love of her life, Frank Kobza in Wheeling, West Virginia. The two were married on November 3, 1956 and moved to Gary, Indiana.

In 1963 they moved to Dubuque where her husband owned Stampfers Shoe Department and she worked at Finley Hospital in the nursery until retirement.

Shella was very active in the Dubuque Women’s Club, serving and chairing several projects and fund raisers. She produced and edited the first TV Christmas Program for the Dubuque Women’s Club.

Shella was also involved in St. Anthony’s Church. She worked and chaired several programs and Fall Festivals.

She was a talented artist, working with watercolors, oils and acrylic. She attended many art classes at Mt. Carmel. She had a love of gardening and enjoyed working in her rose garden with her husband, Frank. She won numerous awards for her roses, including her and Franks pride and joy, the ribbon for Best of Class- Tri state Garden Club at the show at the Dubuque Arboretum. Her roses were showcased in many shows at the Arboretum. Shella also enjoyed cooking and baking cookies, especially during the Holidays.

Surviving are her two sons, Daryl Kobza, of Dubuque and Detmer Kobza, of West Burlington, Iowa.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank; and her parents, Detmer and Jessica Eicholtz.

A Shella Kobza Memorial Fund has been established.

Anna Mae Powers

Anna Mae Powers, 89, of Dubuque, died Thursday, February 22, 2018 at UnityPoint Health- Finely Hospital.

Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m., Monday, February 26 at Resurrection Catholic Church, where a visitation will be held from 9:00-10:45 a.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road is in charge of the arrangements.

Anna Mae was born on November 8, 1928 in Dubuque, the daughter of Leo and Esther (Fransen) Reiter. She married James K. Powers Sr. in 1955 in Omaha, Nebraska. She was a housekeeper at Americana for many years until retiring in 1987.

Anna Mae was a woman of very few words but stern in her thoughts and beliefs. As she and Jim started their family, they enjoyed camping and started out the old- fashioned way and progressed to purchasing their motor home. Together they traveled the country and visited many sites and state parks.

She was a quiet individual and enjoyed baking and needlework. However, her greatest enjoyment would find her on Wednesday and Friday evenings at the bingo hall or an occasional visit to the casino.

As soon as the air had the warmth of the spring she could be found daily sitting on their front deck with Jim at the home they have lived in for 61 years.

She is survived by her husband, James; children, William L. (Bonnie) Powers, James K. Powers, and Lori (Vincent) Tillman, all of Dubuque; grandchildren, Billy Powers, of Dubuque, Lisa (Cornelius Johnson) Powers, of Chicago, IL, Jacey (Brian) Shea, of Belmont, WI, Paige Powers, of Chilton, WI, Michael (Keri) Tillman and Tracy (fiancé Steve) Tillman, all of Dubuque, and Thom (Sheri) Wasmund, of Lena, IL; 8 great- grandchildren; siblings, LaVern (Gayle) Reiter, Virginia Lyons, all of Dubuque, and Carol Godwin, of Galena, IL; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Merlin (Janaan) Reiter, Leroy Reiter, in infancy, Orvetta Reiter, Jeanette Reiter and Marion (Homer) Jewell; brothers-in-law, Francis Callahan, Lacy Godwin, Bob Brotheridge and LeRoy Lyons and two nieces, Susan and Linda Lyons; mother and father-in-law, William and Lucille Powers; brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert (Jo) Powers, Rosemary (Lloyd) Valley and Larry (Carmen) Powers and a niece, Michelle Powers.

An Anna Mae Powers Memorial Fund has been established.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the 5th floor nurses, doctors and staff at Finley Hospital, especially Nurse Chrissy and Dr. Boone, Deacon Jim and Mary Schmidt at Resurrection Church and to the EMT and first responders for their exceptional care and compassion.

Helen L. Metcalf

Helen L. (Roth) Metcalf, 78, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque, follow a sudden illness, surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, February 27, 2018 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Dean Smith officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, and from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 3:30 p.m. on Monday.

Helen was born on October 2, 1939 in East Dubuque, the daughter of Valentine and Freda (Helbing) Roth. She was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, class of 1958. Helen was united in marriage to Ronald Metcalf on November 23, 1968 at St. Mary’s Church. He preceded her in death on December 15, 2014.

She was a member of St. Mary’s Parish and its’ Altar & Rosary Society. Helen was employed at Frommelt’s, later known as Rite Hite in Dubuque for 18 years.

Helen was known for her big heart, and putting others first before herself. She enjoyed shopping and traveling with friends and relatives, going to the movies, car rides and out for dinner with her grandchildren, and the special times spent with Abigail and her great granddaughter, Lilly Ann. Helen loved attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and cheering them on. “Her pride and joy, and the apple of her eye was her great-grandchild, Lilly Ann”.

Surviving is her son, Bradley J. Metcalf of East Dubuque; four grandchildren, Abigail (fiancé Jordan Block), Samuel, Isabel and Laila Sue; one great grandchild, Lilly Ann Metcalf-Block; her sister, Darlene Gibson; inlaws, Margie Roth, Lois Roth, Ed Splinter, and Victoria Metcalf all of East Dubuque, and Jean (Derald) Schrobilgen of Dubuque; many nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Valentine & Freda; her husband, Ron; a daughter, Sara Ann Metcalf on September 17, 2008, siblings, Johnnie Speaker, Carrie Johnston, Amby, Louie, Wayne, Don and Edward Roth; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Leonard & Helen (Maury) Metcalf; and sister-in-law, Doris Splinter.

In lieu of flowers, a Helen L. Metcalf memorial fund has been established.

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

Carla J. Rhomberg

Carla Jean Rhomberg, 70, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 18, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

According to her wishes no public visitation or service will be held. Carla didn’t want anyone crying over her, she wanted her family and friends to remember her memories and celebrate her life. Her youngest daughter Suzanne along with her siblings will be planning a celebration of Carla’s life on her birthday, May 8th. Any questions please feel free to call 563-542-6662.

She was born on May 8, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Albert and Edith (Larson) Cupps. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and in 1966 married Ronald L. Rhomberg in Dubuque. She worked as a waitress, a housekeeper and an in-home care provider.

Carla loved Christ, spending time with her family and friends. She enjoyed teaching her grandkids different crafts. She also enjoyed sewing, reborning dolls, and doing crafts along with spending time with her pigs, Benny, Jake and Rosie.

She is survived by her husband Ronald; her children, Suzanne (Gary) Miller-Rhomberg, Angella Rhomberg, Tonya (Paul Stant) Kieler, Stacy Rhomberg, Sean Rhomberg and Jonathan Rhomberg. Grandchildren, Dylan and Michael Dean, Cash Yeoger, Tony Shaffar, Trenton Avenarius, Ashley (Jessica) Yoeger, Shauna Ray Peterson and Stormy Yeoger; two great granddaughters Haylee and Malinda Peterson. Siblings, Wendy Mullen, Bonnie Fink, and Chris Cupps.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her son Ronald “Boy” Rhomberg; a grandson Daniel “D.J.” Peterson; siblings, Albert (Jenny) Cupps, David and Leroy Cupps; Sandy Kuhn and Judith Cupps.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Mercy Medical Center, Leonard Funeral Home. A special thank you to her husband, children and grandchildren for caring for Carla at home and having her last days be as best as they can be.

A Carla Jean Rhomberg memorial fund will be established and memorials may be sent to 2675 Kerper Blvd.

Edna M. (Hawe Haynes) Hammerand

Edna M. (Hawe Haynes) Hammerand, 95, of Dubuque passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2018.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Monday, February 26, 2018 at Center Grove United Methodist Church in Dubuque. Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Sunday, February 25, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service 3860 Asbury Rd. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Edna was born May 31, 1922 in Dubuque County the daughter of Robert and Wilhelmina (Wall) Hawe. She married Warren Haynes and later married Alfred H. Hammerand on August 6, 1977; he passed on September 14, 2001.

Edna was a school teacher first in a country school in Delhi, Greeley and finally in the West Delaware School System in Manchester before retiring.

She enjoyed flowers, going to auctions, garage sales, dancing and playing euchre.

Survivors include her daughters, Janice (Don) Dehn of Manchester, Julie Kremer of Clinton, and Joyce (John) Flanagan of Ryan; 6 grandchildren, Heather Davis, Deidra (Robert) Hundley, Tracy (John) Boardman, Paul (Amanda) Dehn, John (Krista) Flanagan, and Matt (Windy) Kremer; 12 great-grandchildren; step-daughter, Anita (Danny) Gouge of Bristol, Florida; 3 step-grandchildren, Rod ( Amy Smith) Hammerand, Rick (Sandra) Hammerand, and Jimmy (Mia) Minton; 1 4 step-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Edna was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 2 brothers, Elmer (Gladys) Hawe and Robert (Mary) Hawe; 2 step-sons, Merlin and Melvin Hammerand.

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

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

Robert F. Fisher

Robert F. “Bob” Fisher, 95, of Edgewood, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2018, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids. He was born on November 6, 1922, on the family farm, the son of Fred and Bess (Michael) Fisher.

Bob graduated from Edgewood High School on May 22, 1940. He then worked for a couple years before enlisting in the United States Army. He honorably served his country during World War II, landing on Normandy Beach on D-Day Plus 3 and participating in the Battle of the Bulge.

On June 1, 1950, Bob was united in marriage to Rayma Pilgrim in Earlville. Two children were born to this union. The couple farmed, living south of Strawberry Point for a year before moving north of Edgewood. Bob also worked as a clerk at the Edgewood post office and as a substitute rural mail carrier. In 1958, Bob and Rayma bought the home farm northeast of Edgewood. They moved to town in 1978.

The couple were members of Trinity United Methodist Church. Bob served as commander of the Edgewood American Legion Post #512 for many years. He was also a member of the Knights of Pythian and a former board member for the SilverEdge Cooperative and Clayton County Farm Bureau. Bob also served as a Lodomillo Township Trustee and Township Clerk and received the Retired Dairy Producer Award.

Bob loved to fish. He was the grandkids biggest fan when they showed dairy cows at the county and state fairs. Most of all, Bob cherished time with his family.

Survivors include his wife of 67 years, Rayma of Edgewood; his children, Bonnie (Steve) Sanders of Dubuque and David (Mary) Fisher of Edgewood; six grandchildren, Amanda Sanders (Bryant Tanguay), Mark (Sarah Borchart) Fisher, Chris (Lara) Sanders, Craig (Morgan) Fisher, Gina (Josh) Mashek, and Tyler Fisher; five great-grandchildren, with another baby due in August; and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Keltner of Edgewood.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Charles Fisher; his sisters, Teresa Mrazek and Irene DeLaHunt; his father- and mother-in-law, Ralph and Luella Pilgrim; and a brother-in-law, Robert Keltner.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Edgewood Veteran’s Memorial Fund.

Online condolences may be sent to www.leonard-mullerfh.com.

Funeral Service: 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Edgewood, with Pastor Mike Jackson officiating.

Visitation: 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Edgewood.

Interment With Military Rites: Edgewood Cemetery – Edgewood, Iowa

Beatrice M. Payne

Beatrice M. Payne, 89, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on February 20th, 2018 at Hawkeye Care Center.

Funeral mass will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, February 24th, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Church with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensa officiating. Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 23rd, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be at 7:00 p.m. Family and friends may also gather after 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the church until time of mass.

Bea was born on November 6, 1928 in Wisconsin the daughter of Virgil and Juanita (Alderman) McCollough. On October 17, 2003 she married John “Jerry” Payne at Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

She retired from the Dubuque Packing Company after 28 years. After retirement Bea went to school to become a cake decorator. She specialized in wedding cakes and even made her own wedding cake.

Bea was a loving mother who raised her six children on her own. She was the rock of the family, and was an amazing grandmother and aunt.

Bea enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and attending the casino on Saturday’s with her son Ken and his wife Maureen. She loved to travel, and she spent winters in Texas for the last 13 years. Her greatest trip experience was traveling to Ireland where she was able to Kiss the Blarney Stone.

She is survived by her husband Jerry; her children, Gloria Harrison, Kathryn Luher, David (Gayle) Erickson, and Daniel Erickson all of Dubuque. Jerry’s children, Alice Pregler, Jim (Jenny) Payne, and Steve (Kathy) Payne. Five grandchildren, seven step grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and 4 step great grandchildren. Her siblings, Lyle (Jean) McCollough, Betty (Orville) Taylor, and Carol (Red) Auderer. Her brothers and sisters in laws, Tim (Myra) Payne, Ray (Colleen) Payne, Mary Johnson, Ann (Jack) Ginter, Ellen (Dave) Willis, Sheila (Larry) Blatz, Betty Payne and Karen Payne.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a son Ken Erickson, two daughters Barbara Erickson and Sandra Kay Erickson; siblings, Jack McCollough, Larry McCollough, and Patricia McCollough; brothers-in-law Jack Payne, Billy Payne and sister-in-law Rita Ambrosy.

The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and to her doctor Sara Loetscher for all their wonderful care they gave to Bea.

James E. Walsh

James E. “Jim/JE” Walsh, 91, of Dubuque, reached his eternal destination surrounded by his wife and children Sunday, February 18, 2018 at Grand Meadows.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday at 10:00 am at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church where visitation will be Thursday 3 to 7 pm with a wake service at 6:45 pm. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery where military rites will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.

James was born January 8, 1927 in Dubuque, son of Arthur and Rita (Ryan) Walsh. While attending Loras Academy Jim was active in the ROTC. After graduation from high school Jim enlisted in the US Army and served in the Philippines during WWII. He attended North Dakota State, Kansas State and Loras College.

Jim married his best friend and love of his life Geraldine Roethig on October 16, 1948 at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Together they had nine children – just enough for him to field his own baseball team which is always a bonus to a diehard Cubs fan.

Jim recognized the importance of family time. He loved caring for his dream home and could be found every Friday riding the John Deere as he and his children manicured the 5 acre lawn. Saturdays he was often armed with the chain saw as he groomed trees and shrubs. The Sunday ritual included piling all of the kids into a station wagon for a ride around the city and county. Even after the kids left home, Jim and Geri could be seen cruising in his red convertible. Jim always enjoyed hosting large get-togethers and barbeques at the house. Any time he had a family gathering he would start up a football, baseball or basketball game for the grandkids. After the games ended he would hook up the wagon to the tractor and give the youngest children rides around the yard.

Jim raised his family on a firm well-balanced foundation of the importance of family, work, service, and sports. His final legacy will be the lessons he taught us about loving life, embracing change and confronting adversity.

Jim took great pride in his role at Bird Chevrolet Company beginning in 1947. He served as President of the company from 1968 to 2008 and Chairman of the Board from 2008 to 2015. Jim truly loved the business and had a true passion for the automobile business. He could usually be found meandering around the show room floor greeting potential customers and joking with the old familiar faces. He knew the value of his employees, chatting with them to find out about their lives and problems. Jim always had a quick wit, and laughter often punctuated those conversations. Along with his time at Bird Chevrolet, Jim served on the board of the former First National Bank.

This desire to serve others was another key element in Jim’s life, which led him to become active in many aspects of his community. Among the many organizations he was a member of were The American Legion Dubuque Post 6, Knights of Columbus, and the Dubuque Lions Club. He also served as president for the latter. Jim was also actively involved with Project Concern in Dubuque, the Boys Club where he served as president, and Junior Achievement. He was a member of the Dubuque Golf and Country Club, Thunder Hills Country Club and the Dubuque New Car Dealers Association. Jim was the driving force, founder and past president of the Westside Business and Professional Mens’ Association. Recognizing the importance of his faith in his life, he became a Charter member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.

Jim enjoyed a good round of golf with his friends or family. He also loved watching all sports as well as playing them. As an avid Hawkeye fan, he enjoyed using his season tickets to attend multiple sporting events. Family vacations were often planned around the Chicago Cubs baseball schedule.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Geraldine Walsh of Dubuque, nine children, Tim (Connie) Walsh, David (Judy) Walsh, Jane (Chuck) Northup, James A. Walsh, Mike (Christine/Tina) Walsh, and John (Renee Wedewer) Walsh, all of Dubuque, Kathy (Rick Venable) Brothers of Pleasant Valley, IA, Tom (Carman) Walsh of Iowa City, IA, and Mary (Mike) Hermansen of Shorewood, MN; 20 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; three siblings, Michael (Mary Alice) Walsh, Ellen Schlueter and Sr. Catherina Walsh BVM.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and two sisters, Mary Ann Pufahl and Kathy Walsh, two brother-in-law’s Werner Pufahl and Bob Schlueter.

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

In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials will be distributed to Jim’s favorite charities.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Runde and his staff for their compassionate care and attention. A special thank you for the staff at Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care of Jim and the support they gave to the family.

Sucyn A. Tenney

Sucyn “Sue”A. Tenney, 86 of Dyersville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Sucyn’s family services are private. A Memorial service for Sucyn are pending at The Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Dyersville.

Sucyn was born August 28, 1931 in Albert Lea, MN the daughter of Albert and Selma (Anderson) Ehlert. She married Harold D. Tenney on September 24, 1949 in Spring Valley, MN. She was a waitress in many area restaurants. She collected teddy bears. She was a very cheerful person who had a strong spirit.

Survivors include her 4 children: Julie Tenney of Dyersville, Robert Tenney of Dyersvlle, Barbara (Henry) Mills of Forest City, Jefferey (Lori) Tenney of Vinton, 5 grandchildren: Shay Tenney, Hattie Mills, Thomas Mills, Ian Tenney, Kyle Tenney and brother-in-law, John Steffen of Farley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Harold in 1999, daughter-in-law, Darlene Tenney in 2008, granddaughter, Lisa Tenney, siblings: Barbara Steffen, Wally Ehlert and Mary Ehlert.

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

Dorothy N. Maiers

Dorothy N. Maiers, 85 of Dyersville, passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2018, at Oak Crest Manor in Dyersville.

Visitation will be held from 2-8 p.m. Friday, February 23, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville where an American Legion Auxiliary Rosary will be recited at 4 p.m. 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 a.m. Saturday, February 24, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Dorothy was born June 7, 1932, in Petersburg the daughter of John and Irene (Koelker) Dingbaum. She married Merlin “Dixie” Maiers on April 14, 1953, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville. He preceded her in death in 1977. She remained on the acreage near Worthington until she moved to Dyersville in 1983. She waitressed at the Cardinal Lounge and the Shot Tower Restaurant, worked as a CNA at the Dyersville Hospital and was a cashier at Theisen’s in Dyersville for 22 years until her retirement in 2002.

Dorothy was an avid card player and enjoyed going to the casino. She was proud to have been able to put her children through Catholic Schools and was especially proud of her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include her children: Diane (Steve) Seim of New Richmond, WI, Karen Maiers of Stillwater, MN, Jolene (Jon) Feltz of Beaman, IA, Wayne (Kelly) Maiers of North Liberty, IA, Bruce (Gail) Maiers of Cedar Rapids, IA, Jason (Michelle) Maiers of Manchester, IA, and Dennis (Shawn) Maiers, Kyle (Robyn) Maiers and Jeff (Tricia) Maiers, all of Dyersville; 18 grandchildren: Becky, Nicki, Josh, Mariah, Chapin, Adeline, Jessica, Jeremiah, Jenna, Michael, Sage, Heather, Nicholas, Tyler, Sarah, Chance, Tori and Mia; 13 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild; siblings: Lester Dingbaum of Manchester, Veryl Voss of Guttenberg, Rita (John) Garside of Dubuque, and a sister-in-law, Eileen Dingbaum of Dyersville

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Merlin, siblings: Alver Dingbaum, Julie (Leo) Gerken and Therese (Bill) Gibbs; in-laws: Anthony Voss, Virgie Dingbaum, Norma (Fred) Wessels and Gladys (Virgil) Knipper.

We would like to thank the staffs of Oak Crest Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for their excellent and compassionate care.

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

Frederick Charles Smith

Frederick Charles Smith, 88, of Dubuque, returned home on Monday, February 19, 2018. He has escaped the confines of his imprisonment with Alzheimer’s disease. Fred was a friend to all and an enemy to none.

Fred is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Joyce, and their son, Kevin (Tessa) Smith.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, February 22, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. Rev. Gabriel Anderson will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery, with military honors accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, February 21, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque.

Fred was born in Garden Grove, IA, the son of Howard and Dorothy (Stiles) Smith. He was the oldest of three sons, and was preceded in death by his brothers Richard and Bert. Though growing up in meager surroundings, his mother’s influence as a teacher formed Fred’s ambition for studies. He excelled at Garden Grove School and was president of his graduating class of 1947. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951 until 1953. He served in Mannheim, Germany as part of the Psychological Warfare Department. He often reminisced about his younger, single days with his comrades-in-arms in Germany where he often said he “fought the war with a pencil”. After his discharge, Fred returned to Iowa where he attended Iowa’s Teacher College (University of Northern Iowa) in Cedar Falls, graduated in 1955, and later obtained his Master of Arts in Education in 1960.

After graduation, Fred met, courted, and married Joyce (Teeple) of Waterloo in 1957. A year later, their son Kevin was welcomed into their lives.

He taught elementary school in Garrison, IA and then moved and lived in Tripoli where he split his time working as Principal at Tripoli and Fredericka Elementary Schools. Fred sought and received a position with the Dubuque Community School System, and the family moved to Dubuque in 1966. In Dubuque, Fred served as Principal for Audubon (1966-1968) and Eisenhower (1968-1984). He retired as Principal from Marshall in 1991.

Fred loved his community, his fellow teachers, and the students. He was an engaged and fair Principal. He cared for the well-being and the future of his students and teachers, and at times went out of his way to help a struggling co-worker or student. After his retirement, it was not unusual to hear his hearty laugh when he was approached by past students and co-workers who would recall the experiences they shared.

Fred loved to fish and as a Dubuquer, loved his Euchre. Keeping involved with the schools, for twenty-five years Fred was a lineman for the football games held at Senior High. And for several years you could find Fred and Joyce kicking up their heels to big-band music at the Cock’n Bull. His most cherished were his wife and son, but he also loved his Boston Terriers, of which he owned five over the years: Lady, Princess, Angel, Molly, and Sadie. And let’s not forget the Hawkeyes; Go Hawks!

Fred will be missed but is now free of the earthly binds. He is with his family, friends, and Boston Terriers. I can now hear his laugh that has been silent for too long. Fred is also survived by his step-grandchildren, Kyoko (Christian) Felland and Kalen (Randi) Bales.

Kevin and Joyce would like to thank everyone at Hawkeye Care Center for all their hard work and care over the last several years. In lieu of flowers, all gifts will be donated to Alzheimer’s Association.

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

Doris O. Weis

Doris O. Weis, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Friday evening, February 16, 2018, at the Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Doris will be held at 3:30 P.M., Thursday, February 22, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 2:30 P.M. Cremation will follow the service and a private burial will be held at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

Doris O. Jessen was born on March 31, 1928 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Hans and Lulu (Taylor) Jessen. She was a 1945 graduate of Maquoketa High School. She married Marvin J. Weis on July 7, 1948 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Doris was a homemaker and had worked for Howard Woods at Iowa Production Credit Association in Maquoketa as a secretary and office assistant for several years. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, the Joinerville Boat Club and the Maquoketa Garden Club.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband, Marvin J. Weis of Maquoketa, IA; many nieces and nephews; and sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Dorothy Davis of Metairie, LA, Coletta Littell of Eldgridge, IA and Velma and Dale Hovey of Maquoketa, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents and sisters Francis Wygie Jessen and Arlene Duhme.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Doris O. Weis memorial fund has been established.

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

C. Howard Rogers

C. Howard Rogers, 81, of Cascade, IA, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 18, 2018 at his home in Cascade, IA.

Friends and relatives of Howard may call from 11 to 2 p.m., Saturday, February 24, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, IA, where arrangements are pending.
Services for Howard will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, February 24, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, with Sr. Jane Rogers and Sr. Marlene McDonnell presiding. Burial will held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, IA with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

Howard was born September 5, 1936 in Monticello, IA, son of Charles and Margaret (O’Shea) Rogers. He received his education from country schools and St. Martin’s Elementary and graduated from St. Martin’s High School. Howard served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958.

On September 7, 1963 he was united in marriage to Carolyn Fisher in St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ottumwa, IA.

He was a lifelong farmer and he also worked for Robertson Seco for 25 years until his retirement.

Howard loved helping others, taking them to doctors and dialysis appointments. He also volunteered for Meals on Wheels for many years. He was an avid Notre Dame Football and Chicago Cubs Baseball fan. Howard was a wonderful storyteller and enjoyed telling stories to his family and friends. He enjoyed playing poker and bowling.
He was a member of the Cascade American Legion Post # 528 and the Cascade Knights of Columbus Council #930.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Carolyn Rogers of Cascade, IA; two children, Bernadette (Pete) Merchlewitz of Fountain City, WI and their son, Sean Merchlewitz, Michael (Tien) Rogers of Claymont, DE and their children Kevin and Jared Rogers; 3 step-grandchildren, Jana (Kellen) Haynes, Jacob (Sarah) Merchlewitz and Josh (Special Friend Nikki) Merchlewitz; 6 step-great grandchildren with one more on the way in May; one sister, Sr. Jane Rogers of Dubuque, IA; two brothers-in-law, Carl Fisher of CA, and Tom Fisher of Ottumwa, IA; one sister-in-law, Andrea (Special Friend George Hopkins) Dalbey of Ottumwa, IA; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; father and mother-in-law, Winfred and Hazel Fisher; two sons, Sean Rogers on May 10, 1972 and Kevin Rogers on November 24, 1996; one brother, Leo Rogers; two sisters, Patricia Rogers and Annabelle (Jim) Cigrand.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The family would like to give a Special Thank You to the Staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela for all the wonderful care and support they have given.

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

Lynn L. Disney

Lynn L. Disney, 85, of Grinnell, Iowa, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Saturday afternoon, February 17, 2018, at St. Francis Manor in Grinnell, Iowa.

A celebration of Lynn’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, February 24, 2018, at the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, February 23, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:45 P.M. Masonic Service will be held. Burial will be at the Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Lynn Lamont Disney was born on January 4, 1933 in Wellman, Iowa, to Lester and Opal (Green) Disney. He was a 1950 graduate of Wellman High School and then received his Bachelor of Arts degree with a Double Major in education from Iowa Wesleyan University in 1954. He then received his Masters in 1963 from the University of Iowa with additional postgraduate studies being done at Western Illinois University, University of Northern Iowa and Bemidji State College. He also enlisted in the Army Reserves serving for nine years. He married his college sweetheart, Norma J. Topp on June 26, 1955 in Radcliffe, Iowa, and to this union two children were born: Brian and Rhonda.

Lynn spent over forty years in education serving as an instructor, coach and administrator. He taught his first nine years at Keota, Keswick and Ainsworth. In August of 1963 he began a 32 year career with the Maquoketa School District. From 1969 to 1983 he was the Assistant Principal at the Maquoketa Middle School, and from 1983 until retiring in 1995 he served as the Principal. Lynn and Norma also owned and operated “Disney’s Shoe Barn” in Maquoketa for 7 years.

Through the years Lynn had served on many educational and community boards some of which included the Maquoketa Education Association serving as a past president, Iowa Education Association, School Administrators of Iowa Area IX, Maquoketa Masonic Helion Lodge #36 AF & AM serving as a past Master, and the First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa.

Lynn enjoyed serving on committees, showing horses, playing any card game especially Euchre, fishing, hunting, boating, golfing, and attending grandchildren’s activities.

Those left to honor Lynn’s memory include his children, Brian (Bonnie) Disney of State Center, IA, and Rhonda (Galyn) Gohlmann of Grinnell, IA; 4 grandchildren, Joseph (Brittni) Disney, David Disney, and Teresa Disney, and Trey Gohlmann; 2 great-grandchildren, Bailey and Brody; a sister, Loretta (Don) Gardner of Washington, IA; brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Carole Topp of Radcliffe, IA, and Mary Lou Topp of Hubbard, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother Ray, and his wife Norma on May 13, 2010.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Lynn L. Disney memorial fund has been established.

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

Alicia Rose Vandermillen

Alicia Rose Vandermillen, 26, of Dubuque, IA became an angel on February 16, 2018. The University of Iowa Hospital in Iowa City took exceptional care of Alicia before she surrendered to compilations from Pneumonia. The family would like to thank them and the staff of the Finley Hospital in Dubuque for their excellent care.

To celebrate Alicia’s life, you are welcome to pay your respects from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 with a short memorial service to follow at 7pm. There will be a private burial ceremony held on Wednesday morning at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

Alicia’s precious life began on October 3, 1991. She was born in Dubuque to Mike Vandermillen and Kelly Uhlrich who will always thank God for the privilege of being her parents.

Though she was brilliant, she graduated from Dubuque Senior High School by the skin of her teeth after being bribed by her mother with a trip to Mexico. She played by her own rules and knew she could wrap anyone and anything (including her diploma) around her finger with one flash of her beautiful smile. That’s our girl.
Beyond that smile, captivating eyes, and incomparable beauty, Alicia was born with more compassion then could ever be taught. She was adored by all those that she had the pleasure to care for as Certified Nursing Assistant. The crankier the patient, the more of a challenge, the more determined Alicia was to win them over. And she always did.

Alicia was fiercely loyal, remarkably compassionate, determined, stubborn, loving, and of course a force to always be reckoned with – she was truly her father’s daughter. Alicia had an unwavering love for every animal and as much candy as she could get her hands on. Alicia enjoyed shopping and while she had enough clothes, purses, shoes and jewelry to outfit half of the country, she always seemed to find another reason to “pop some tags”.
Alicia loved her family unconditionally. She was affectionately called “Bear” by her Daddy who was her ultimate protector and champion. Her momma Kelly was Alicia’s biggest fan and in reverence, Alicia would scold anyone using the Lord’s name in vain. Her stepdad Greg instilled a love for both the American Flag and the Iowa Hawkeyes. Alicia was a favorite of her grandparents and had a special bond with her Aunts Lynda “Nina” and Melissa.

The love of her life, her best friend, and partner in crime was her brother, Michael Henry. And vice versa, as evidenced by the tattoos they each bear of the other’s name. Michael gave her two beautiful nephews, Jace and Liam. No one will ever be able to replace the huge spot in his heart he has for her.

Those left to cherish her memory include her parents, Mike Vandermillen and Kelly and Greg Uhlrich; her beloved brother Michael and his sons Jace and Liam; and step-brother Dakota. Alicia’s Grandparents are Larry and Rose Abresch, Joe and Sandy Vandermillen and step-grandpa Paul Uhlrich. She is also survived by many Aunts, Uncles and Cousins who loved her so very much.

Alicia was met in heaven by her Uncle Kenny, Aunt Beth, Great Uncle Ray and Greg’s mom Pat.

In lieu of flowers please be kinder than necessary to everyone you meet, regardless of their circumstance, and especially if they are Grandpa’s age. That’s what she would have wanted.

Tough it out, that was Alicia’s attitude. It is our wish for all who read this to not take for granted the smallest sign of a true illness and please go to the Doctor. Even the strong fall.