Obituaries Archive

Anthony J. Trenkamp

Anthony J. Trenkamp, 79, of Dubuque, joined Jesus on Friday, October 19, 2018.

Memorial Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Thursday October 25 at Grace Point Church, 3100 Windsor Ave., where friends may greet the family from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. Rev. English will officiate. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements.

Anthony was born June 25, 1939 in Worthington, son of Anton and Mary (Kremer) Trenkamp. He was married to Mary Germaine in 1973 and was employed with John Deere Dubuque Works for 30 years.

Being a man of pronounced faith, Anthony enjoyed talking to people and witnessing for Jesus. He was a devoted volunteer for the YMCA Camp, Red Cross, RSVP, and Salvation Army.

He loved the outdoors and playing dominoes. Anthony was recently blessed with his first grandchild, whom he adored.

Those left to honor his memory are his wife, Mary; a son, Russ (Tanya) Trenkamp of Dubuque; his favorite grandson, Jaxson; sisters: Margaret (R.J.) Bertling and Donna Snitker; a brother, John Trenkamp; and many nieces and nephews. He will be greatly missed by all.

Anthony was preceded in death by his parents; and several brothers and sisters.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque and the staff at Luther Manor for their care of Anthony.

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

Gloriann Egan

Gloriann Egan, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at 5:15 a.m. surrounded by her family on October 19, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

A funeral Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 at Nativity Catholic Church with the Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, October 22nd, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road, where there will be a wake service at 7 p.m.

Gloriann was born on November 8, 1939, in Dubuque, the daughter of Carl and Camilla (Fitzpatrick) McDermott. She graduated from Visitation Academy High School. She attended UW-Platteville and Clarke College, Dubuque where she pursued an elementary education degree. She married Patrick J. Egan on October 12, 1963 at Nativity Church. They shared 44 years of marriage. He preceded her in death on November 27, 2007.
She provided a warm, loving environment to many children through her in-home daycare and her work at both Piglet’s Place and Nativity Parish Daycare Centers. She had a natural ability to make connections with others, especially children.

Gloriann’s devotion to her family and spirituality guided her life. She cherished being a wife and mother. She had an inspiring positive outlook and “can do” attitude. She was a faith-filled woman that always found joy in “precious present moments”. Her warm smile, genuine care, light heartedness, quick wit, and kindness to others was contagious and touched many lives She enjoyed going on scenic road trips, shopping, picnics, baking, dancing, but most of all spending time with her children and grandchildren and keeping family traditions alive.

She is survived by 10 children, Kris Egan of Dubuque, Greg (Megan) Egan of Peosta, Angie Olds of Dubuque, Kevin Egan of Dubuque, Laura (Dave) Heiderscheit of Balltown, Mike Egan of Dubuque, Julie (Andy) Willenborg of New Vienna, Ron Egan of Dubuque, Amy (Brad) Blum of Dubuque, Erin Egan of Dubuque, a brother Gari McDermott, a godson Jeff (Loretta) Sommers, a goddaughter Beth McDermott, a sister-in-law Alice Egan and Maxine Egan, 15 grandchildren, Lauren, Hunter and Katelyn Egan, (step-grandson) Brady Tegeler, LeighAnn (Andrew) Duve, Erica Olds, Rachel (Nick) Nurre, Ryan Olds, Matthew and Connor Heiderscheit, Nathan Willenborg, Madelyn, Benjamin, Allison and Andrew Blum, 3 great grandchildren, Daxton and Kala Duve, Parker Nurre and 13 nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Patrick J. Egan; granddaughter, Faith Willenborg; parents, Carl and Camilla McDermott; her maternal grandparents, Harold “Hal” and Clara (Slattery) Fitzpatrick; her aunt, Adeline Sommers-Sweeney; two children through miscarriage; her mother and father-in-law, Hope (Dolan) and Edward L. Egan; a sister-in-law, Anna Mae Egan and two brother-in-laws, Glenn and Edward “Eddie” V. Egan.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the caring staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Joyce M. Schoenberger

Joyce M. Schoenberger, 72, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, October 19, 2018 at Finley Hospital.

Services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, October 26, at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Rd., Dubuque. Rev. Robin Luckey will officiate. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. Friends may greet the family from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, October 25, at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 1640 Main St., Dubuque.

Joyce was born September 12, 1946 in Dubuque, the daughter of Lee E. and Anna C. (Keller) Hadley. While in high school at Dubuque Senior High, Joyce met the love of her life, Benjamin R. Schoenberger. The high school sweethearts graduated in 1964, and married on October 9, 1965.

Joyce held many retail jobs over the years, including Walsh Family Store, Kmart, and Walmart. She was also a paraprofessional for Dubuque Community Schools.

Volunteering was a passion of Joyce’s, and her volunteer work included the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, Grand Opera House, Five Flags Theater, North End Neighborhood, and Crescent Community Health Center. She held many positions with different volunteer organizations, including Local 94, UAW Women’s Auxiliary, VFW Women’s Auxiliary, Salvation Army, and Boy Scout Troop 94, where she and Benjamin loved to spend time.

Joyce and Benjamin shared a love of the outdoors, spending time waterskiing with the Waterski Club, boating, camping, hiking, and fishing. They enjoyed square dancing, and volunteering at Boy Scout Camp C.S. Klaus, where Joyce served as Camp Secretary. Music was a passion of Joyce’s, and she loved everything from classical to rock n roll, and even Metallica! She was a huge fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and Washington Redskins. Joyce loved to shop, and there wasn’t a day that went by that you wouldn’t catch her without a bracelet on. She was devoted to her family, baking cookies for everyone and was known to kick the kids out of the house to play outside during the summer.

Joyce is survived by her two children, Angela (Rob Allemann) (Stapleton) Petsche of Dubuque, and Benjamin (Lori) Schoenberger Jr. of Frankfort, KY; her grandchildren, T.J. (Christina) Stapleton III, Stephanie (Josh) Vondal, LeeAnn (Andy) Peterson, Ryan Petsche, Julie (Mike Moore) Schoenberger, and Danielle (Cody Eads) Schoenberger; her great grandchildren, Alexis, Isabelle, Romyn, Temperance, Fable, Gabriel, Theodore IV, Cameran, Ava, Kaydence, Mack, Brant, Aubrey, Derek, Eziln, and baby Jocelyn on the way; her brother, John D. (Janet) Hadley; her sister, Carolann (Terry) Wright; and her brother in law, Donald (Joyce) Schoenberger.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband Benjamin Sr. in 1994; and her twin sister, Janice Patters.

Memorials may be made to the Joyce M. Schoenberger Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the staff at Luther Manor Grand Meadows; Finley Hospital ICU; and Dr. Hillard Salas, for all their care of Joyce.

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

John T. Gregg

John Thomas Gregg, 49, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on October 18, 2018 at his home.

Funeral service will be at 12:00 p.m. Monday, October 22, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory with Pastor Thomas Shinkle officiating. Family and friends may gather after 10:00 a.m. Monday until time of the service. Burial will be at a later date in Mount Sterling, IA.

John was born on August 8, 1969 in Fort Madison, Iowa, son of Joe and Janet (Bennett) Gregg.

John graduated from Fort Madison High School in 1987. He graduated from Western Illinois University in 1993. He enjoyed weight lifting and going for long walks. He had a passion for all things pertaining to World War II and had a vast collection of miniature tanks, planes and books.

John is survived by his mother, his sister Jancy (Pat) Hagen; their son Dylan of Westminster Colorado, his twin brother Jamie (Lora) Gregg; their children, Shelby & Ethan of Inver Grove Heights Minnesota, his aunt, Sondra Bennett (Ozzie Alibasic) of Dubuque, Betty Roberts of Mount Sterling and numerous cousins.

John was preceded in death by his father, Uncle, Oscar Gregg of Wapello, Iowa and Uncle, Dale Roberts of Mount Sterling, Iowa and his grandparents.

Thank you to the medical staff of Mercy Medical Center and Hillcrest Family Services. In lieu of flowers, memorials made will be directed to Hillcrest Family Services.

Dellane Joy (Schissel) Tressel

Dellane Joy (Schissel) Tressel, 58, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on October 18, 2018 at home following a battle with cancer.

Visitation will be from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 24th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will be at a later date in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Dellane was born on September 20, 1960 at Xavier Hospital in Dubuque the daughter of Vern and Sharleen (Smith) Schissel. She attended St. Raphael’s Grade School, Washington Jr. High, and graduated from Senior High School.

She worked at the Villa for over 25 years, along with Manor Care, Stonehill and Seven Hills Brewing.

Dellane was a loving mother and grandmother. She took many trips with her mother to National Parks across the United States. She enjoyed movies, bowling and shooting pool. She especially enjoyed going to concerts with her best friends Pam and Martha.

She is survived by her husband Steve; her sons, Anthony, Randy (Katie), and Eddie. Her grandsons, Aiden, Killian and Jemar. Her mother Sharleen Tressel; brothers Jay (Eileen) Schissel, Tom Schissel, John Schissel and a sister Lori Schulz. Her very best friends of 40 years, Pam (Ahern) Lenz and Martha (Grace) Wallace, and brother-in-law Jeff Swift.

She was preceded in death by her father Vern Schissel; one sister Peggy Swift and a brother Frank Schissel; sister-in-law Penny Schissel.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for all the help and care given to Dellane on her final journey.

May she rest in peace.

Dorothy M. Plein

Dorothy Mae (Reittinger) Plein, age 95, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 5:15 a.m., on October 18, 2018, at Hawkeye Care Center, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Dorothy’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Monday, October 22, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. To celebrate Dorothy’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, October 21, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 4:30 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Dorothy was born on May 12, 1923, in Dyersville, Iowa, daughter of William and Hilda (Davidshofer) Reittinger.

Dorothy was born and raised in the Dyersville area before eventually moving to Dubuque. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Leo V. Plein, on November 10, 1943, at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville. The two were blessed with 2 children, and 56 wonderful years together, before Leo was sadly called home ahead of her on December 29, 2000. Dorothy embraced her role as a full time wife, mother and homemaker, but also devoted some of her time to working at Moes Bakery in Dubuque. She was a faith filled woman who was an active, long-time member of Holy Ghost Church.
When Dorothy was able to find some free time in her days, she enjoyed sitting down to work on her latest needlepoint creation. She was a social butterfly who took full advantage of every opportunity she could to sit down and play some cards, and talk about the events of the day with family and friends. Dorothy was also an avid Cubs fan, rarely missing a game on tv, and saw her lifelong dream fulfilled when they won the World Series in 2016. Family was beyond a doubt the most important aspect of Dorothy’s life, and she cherished any opportunity to get together with the children and grandchildren, always making sure they knew how loved and adored they were. Dorothy was a kind hearted, sweet woman, and everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her was definitely changed for the better from that experience. We will miss Dorothy dearly, but are extremely grateful for the 95 years we were blessed to have her here on this Earth, teaching, guiding, listening to us and loving us, and we take some comfort in knowing she is now watching over us from her Heavenly home.

Those left to cherish Dorothy’s memory include

her children,
Beverly A. (David) Unsen, Dubuque, IA
and Steven J. (Karen) Plein, Dubuque, IA;

her 4 grandchildren,
Julie (Sean) Kerr, Colleyville, TX,
Jason Unsen, Dubuque, IA,
Jenna Unsen, Fort Worth, TX
and Lisa Jellison, Dubuque, IA;

her 4 great-grandchildren,
Ryan and Makena Kerr and Aubrielle and Brynlee Jellison;

her brother,
Deacon Paul (Therese) Reittinger, Richardson, TX;

and several nieces and nephews.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Leo Plein; and her sister, Loraine (Eldon) Brown.

Dorothy’s family would like to extend a very special thank you to the nurses and staff of Hawkeye Care Center, who became like her second family, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Tami and Suzanne, for all of the wonderful, professional and loving care they have given Dorothy.

A Dorothy M. Plein memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

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

Kathryn M. Gavin

Kathryn M. “Katie” Gavin, 92, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on October 17, 2018 at UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital.

A funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Steven Rosonke officiating. Entombment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Visitation will be at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, on Friday, October 19, 2018, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a wake service at 7:45 p.m. Family and friends may also pay respects from 9:00 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2018, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church prior to the funeral.

Katie was born on March 2, 1926 in Cascade, Iowa, the daughter of Emeret and Ida (Takes) Koob. She married Thomas L. Gavin April 20, 1948 in Cascade. He preceded her in death on September 1, 2015.

Katie was a meticulous homemaker and worked at Leiser’s Supper Club for many years. Faith and family were the core of her life. She was Tom’s loving caregiver for over 25 years as he declined due to Alzheimer’s disease. Even when circumstances seemed to make it impossible, she found joy in each new day. She loved to travel, and looked forward to meals with family and friends, including the monthly Koob family breakfasts, and lunch with her friends at the Lifetime Center. She loved the falling snow in winter (even in April). Katie was a lifelong seamstress. She made over one hundred beautiful, hand-sewn quilts, which she gave as gifts to her family and charities. She had a strong work ethic and taught it by example to her children and grandchildren.

She is survived by her children Shirley (Dan) Lanners, of Dubuque, Lou Ann (Robert) Austin, Reno, Nevada, and Gary (Rosemary) Gavin, of Iowa City. She is also survived by her grandchildren Carrie (Richard) Brown, Jason (Mandy) Charley, Roger (Lori) Brown, Amy (Phillip) Wagner, Thomas Pike, Joshua (Brittany Lippstock) Pike, Jonathan Pike, Heidi (Zachary) Williams, and Katie Wolf; and many great-grandchildren: Collin, Eric, Chloe, Julie, Kaylee, Matthew, Lily, Amelia, Bailie, Jase, Max, Alyssa, Lilly, Sawyer and Finley. Katie is also survived by her siblings Florence Coyle of Anamosa, Rosie (Al) Smith of Cascade, and Mary Lu (Frank) Takes of Cedar Rapids, and in-laws Dale Weidemann of Bradenton, Florida, Rita Gavin of Dyersville, Celia Gavin of Cascade, Jack (Bea) Gavin of Maquoketa, and Dave (Lois) Gavin of Bernard, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Tom, her siblings Irene Rogers, Joseph Koob, and Helen Weidemann, and her in-laws Merlin Rogers, George Wilmer Coyle, Cecelia Koob, Oscar Gavin, Justin Gavin, Arlene and Jack Cook, and LaVonne Gavin.

Rather than flowers, Katie requested that memorials be directed to The Dubuque Community YMCA/YWCA Shelter for Women and Children or Hills & Dales, both in Dubuque.
Special thanks to the caregivers at Manor Care, Sunset Park Place, and UnityPoint Health – Finley Hospital for the wonderful care and respect for her dignity that they gave Katie as she declined.

Mary J. Manning

Mary J. Manning, 78, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday, October 15, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and family may gather in remembrance of Mary on Saturday, October 20, 2018, from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. at the Clinton Engines Museum Community Center, Lower Level, in Maquoketa. Public graveside services and burial will be held at 1 P.M. from Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Mary Jane Hines was born on September 6, 1940 in Dubuque, Iowa, to Ernie and Delilah Hines. She married William Manning in 1956 in Maquoketa and to this union ten children were born. William preceded her in death on August 26, 1976.

Mary was a homemaker for many years. She enjoyed playing cards, gardening, singing and dancing. Her most prized possession was her family.

Those left to honor Mary’s memory include eight children, Judy Dague of Monmouth, IA, Gary (Linda) Manning of Baldwin, IA, Bruce (Gloria) Manning of Maquoketa, IA, Rick (Flo) Manning of East Moline, IL, Joyce (Paul Hammerhand) Manning of Maquoketa, IA, Shirley Risden of Maquoketa, IA, Mike (Tonia Delong) Manning of Geneseo, IL, and Robert Manning of Maquoketa, IA; 28 grandchildren, 52 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; a brother Kenny Hines of Dubuque, IA; a sister Ida (Buck) Marcus of Moline, IL; and a daughter-in-law, Michele Manning of Maquoketa, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, daughter Jenny, son Ron, sons-in-laws Charlie Risden and Tom Dague, 10 siblings, and grandchildren Robbie Dague and Damien Wallroff.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

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

Patricia Louise (Mason) Conzett

Patricia Louise (Mason) Conzett, 90, of Dubuque passed away on Monday, October 15, 2018 surrounded by family.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, October 19, 2018 at the Church of the Nativity on Alta Vista with Msgr. Jim Miller officiating. Friends may call from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. that morning at Nativity Church. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is entrusted with arrangements.

Pat was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota on January 16, 1928, the oldest and only daughter to Carl Oscar and Beatrice Fern (Dumprope) Severson. Pat’s life took her for a short while through California, to the longest 7-year-span of human existence in Dickinson, North Dakota and finally, Dubuque.

She married William Mason in Minneapolis on September 18, 1946. He preceded her in death in January of 1987. She married Richard Conzett June 15,1991 and he preceded her in death in December of 1993.

Pat was a homemaker, mother of six, and member of the Nativity choir. Her home, as well as her dinner table, were open to all. She later worked at Seiferts advising clientele on ladies fashion.

Pat enjoyed many activities including painting, Tai Chi, and prayer with the Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary at Mt. Carmel, where she became a BVM Associate. Any given day could be gameday as she spent enumerable hours playing cards and dominoes with family and friends.

Surviving her are sister-in-law Wilma (Richard) Severson, brother Lawrence (Nancy) Severson, children: Michele Schroeder, Richard (JoAnn) Mason, Michael (Susan) Mason, Perry (Polly) Mason, Lisa (Daniel) Brandel, Laura (Ronald) Robertson, 14 grand-children and 17 great-grandchildren as well as Mary Ann Conzett (Nick), Kathy (Richard) Noonan, Barbara (Roger) Beau, David (Jane) Conzett, Sandy (Ken) Link, 14 step-grandchildren and 26 step-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents Carl and Fern Severson, brother Richard Severson, husbands William Mason and Richard Conzett, daughter-in-law Polly Mason and stepson Nick Conzett

The family would like to thank the wonderful, caring staffs of Luther Manor, Grand Meadows, and Paramount Ambulance, Dr. Tom Sinsky and staff, Msgr. Jim Miller and Hospice of Dubuque.

A memorial fund has been established.

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

Judith Ann Jobgen

Judith Ann Jobgen, 79, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on October 10th, 2018 at her residence.

According to her wishes no public visitation or service will be held. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road is assisting the family.

Judith was born on March 29, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Irwin and Mildred (Foell) Lesch. She married Gerald Jobgen on August 27, 1960 at Sacred Heart Church.

She worked for Stampfers Department Store and had 25 years of service at Creslanes Bowling Alley. She was a member of the 600 Bowling Club.

Judy was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She loved decorating for the holidays and special occasions. She was also very skilled at creating centerpieces for family and friends.

She is survived by her two children James Jobgen and Paula Tschudi; her daughter-in-law Donna Jobgen; grandchildren, Adam, Matt, Caleb, and Jarrett Jobgen, Sydney and Sebastian Fox and Carter Tschudi. Great granddaughter Natalie Fox and future great granddaughter Zoey Jobgen along with her sister-in-law Loretta (Cook) Lesch.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Gerald; a son Timothy; brothers Jack (Kay) Lesch and Jim Lesch; sisters Jane (Ken) Hefel, and Joan (Roger) Hoskins; brothers-in-law Joe, Gene, and Charles Jobgen; sisters-in-law Virginia, Leonora and Amelda.

Duane T. Horton

Duane T. Horton, 85, of East Dubuque, IL passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 14th, 2018 at home.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Friday, October 19th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where services will be held at 4:00 p.m.

Duane was born on June 21, 1933 in Frost, Minnesota the son of Kelley and Martha (Bosma) Horton. He married Mary Kircher Smothers on June 27, 1980 in Dubuque, Iowa. The couple merged their two families and enjoyed spending time with their seven children.

Duane retired from Flexsteel and his true passion was truck driving for John and Jean Herbst, J&R Trucking. Duane enjoyed 68 years total of driving until he retired in 2016.

Duane is survived by his wife Mary; their children Kelly Rae (Kevin) Mueller, Kim (Bob) Runde, Cary (Don) Lumley, Kelly Jo Smothers, Sean (Jeff) Smothers, and Eddie (Nora) Mulgrew. Five grandchildren, Erica, Justin, Aaron, Toni, Zachary, Jennifer, Dallas, and Landyn; and his three special “Little People”.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son Chuck Smothers and his special companion “Ted Bear”.

The family requests no flowers.

To my husband, Duane, you were the best truck driver to me and our family. You will be greatly missed. A special thank you to his trucking friends and to Dr. Chris Stille and his nurse Amanda

Mae E. Kramer

Mae E. Kramer, 94, of Dyersville passed away Tuesday, October 16, 2018, at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held 2 – 8 p.m. Thursday, October 18, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. Visitation will continue Friday, October 19 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. Friday, October 19, 2018, St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with burial in St. Joseph Cemetery, Farley, Iowa. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate.

Mae was born September 6, 1924, in Dyersville, the daughter of John and Rose (Froning) Vaske. She married Herbert G. Kramer on May 26, 1948, in Bankston, Iowa. Together they farmed North of Farley until retiring in Dyersville in 1995.

Mae was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish. She loved spending time with family and friends, baking cookies, playing cards and dominos.

Mae is survived by her 7 children: Nancy (Bob) White and Richard J. (Sharon) Kramer, both of Dyersville, Wayne (Teresa) Kramer of Farley, Jean (Gary) Domeyer of Earlville, Julie (Leo) Kluesner of Worthington, Donna (Kim) Olberding of Dyersville and Alan (Connie) Kramer of Farley; 24 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren and expecting another; siblings: Carol (Patrick) Gehl of Cascade; in-laws: Grace Vaske of Dyersville and Marguerite Kramer of Lamont.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Herb in 2010, one son, Daniel on Feb. 9, 1963, great grandchildren, Natalie Kluesner and Aidan Barry; siblings: Lu Ann (Orland) Manternach, Don Vaske, and James (Mary) Vaske; in-laws: Ray (Agnes) Kramer, Leonard (Margaret) Kramer, Clarence (Lucille) Kramer, Joe (Mary Ann) Kramer, John (Lorraine) Kramer, LaVerne Kramer, Martha Jane (Charles) Demmer and Arlene (Jerome) Jaeger, Evelyn (Joe) Winter, Mercedes (Vince) Ries, Bernice (Laverne) Lansing and Marcella Kramer.

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

Norma Kirby

Norma “Jane” Kirby, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on October 13, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics.

Funeral mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 17th, 2018 at St. Joseph Church Key West, with Rev. Rodney Allers officiating. Burial will follow in St. Aloysius Cemetery, South Garryowen. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 16th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a parish wake service will be at 3:00 p.m.

She was born on July 5, 1940 in in Rickardsville, Iowa, the daughter of Bernard & Betty (Jacobsmeyer) Steffen. She was married on September 13, 1960 to Robert J. Kirby, Sr. at the South Garryowen Church in Bernard, Iowa.

Jane was a farm wife for several years; after retirement from farming she worked at Sears, Armstrong’s and as a Domestic Engineer. Her favorite job was working at Frog Hollow taking care of babies.

She was a talented baker, crafter & cook. She was notorious as a pie maker and her hobbies included flower gardening, canning, and playing cards; she was also an avid Chicago Cub and Iowa Hawkeye fan.

She was a loving mother, grandmother & great grandmother, and was an inspiration for her children. Jane was always thinking of her family and sending cards in the mail for all occasions and support.

She is survived by her husband Robert Kirby Sr.; her children Mary Beth (Clark) Bastian, Penny (Richard) Capesuis, Bob Kirby and Brian (Joanne) Kirby. Her grandchildren Cassi Appelquist, Carly Capesius, Mitchell & Kortney Kirby, Leslee & Nathan Bastian, and Cody Kirby; Great Grandchildren Ava and Rayden Appelquist. Siblings, Bob (Melinda) Steffen, Mary “Mazie” (Mike) Arthofer, Gary (Patti) Steffen,, Phil (Vicki) Steffen; sister-in-law, Connie Steffen; brother-in-law Richard (Cindy) Kirby.

She was preceded in death by her parents Bernard & Betty Steffen; her brother Tom Steffen; two sisters Carol and Diane Steffen.

In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Research For The Kids (RTFK). RFTK directly benefits research programs for pediatric brain tumors and heart defects at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.

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

Sr. Bernardine Dillinger, OSF

SISTER BERNARDINE (EUDES) DILLINGER, OSF of the Clare House, Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 12:00 PM, October 13, 2018 at the Clare House.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be October 16 2018 at 1:00 p.m. in Francis Chapel. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 15, 2018 with Funeral Vigil at 7:00 p.m. in Francis Chapel.

She was born on November 9, 1923 in Plankinton, SD to Fred and Gertrude (Sihrer) Dillinger.

She entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 24, 1940 and made final profession of vows August 10, 1946. Sister received her high school education through American High School courses. She ministered in Iowa as a homemaker at Rickardsville, Webster City, Sioux City, Oyens, Sugar Creek, and Bode. In Dubuque, she ministered at St. Francis Home, Stonehill Franciscan Services and Mount St. Francis. She ministered in Illinois Corpus Christi in Chicago and Hazel Crest, IL. She also ministered at St. Cloud in Minnesota.

Sister is survived by her sister-in-law Toshiko Dillinger, nieces and nephews, and her Franciscan sisters with whom she shared over 77 years of her life.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers John, Thomas, and Vernon (Nola) Dillinger.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is in charge of arrangements.

Marilynn J. Jacobs

Marilynn J. Jacobs, age 90, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 12:08 a.m., on Friday, October 12, 2018, at home, surrounded by her loving family. To honor Marilynn’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, October 16, 2018, at St. Columbkille’s Church, 1230 Rush Street, with Rev. David A. Schatz officiating. To celebrate Marilynn’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 pm. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, October 15, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Marilynn was born on November 16, 1927, in Eldon, Iowa, daughter of Claude and Caroline (Leinhauser) Steele.

Marilynn grew up in Eldon, Iowa, where she graduated from high school and went on to earn her teaching certificate from the Ottumwa Community College. She taught elementary school in Eldon for a few years, before a nice young man, Paul Jacobs, would catch her eye and change her path. Marilynn and Paul were united in marriage on August 26, 1950, in Eldon, and the two were blessed with 8 children and 26 wonderful years together, before Paul was sadly called home ahead of her on September 15, 1976. After they wed, Marilynn happily became a full time wife, mother and homemaker, who took great pride in making sure her family was well cared for. Much to her family’s delight, Marilynn was very talented in the kitchen and was famous for her delicious pies. Marilynn’s faith was of utmost importance to her, she was a long time member of St. Columbkille’s Church, and was extremely active in several organizations where she could share her beliefs with others. She and Paul were very involved with Cursillo, CEW and Marriage Encounter, as well as several Bible study groups within the parish and city-wide. She was part of the Mothers Prayers Group, an associate of the Sisters of the Presentation, a founding member of the Community of the Living Word and was a staple with the Meals Program at the Rescue Mission for over 35 years. She wrote a column for The Witness called “Family Alive”, and was passionate about her work with the Spiritual Growth Program and the Social Justice Community with Sister Parish of Our Lady of the Sioux in Ogalala South Dakota. When Marilynn found some quiet time in her days, she enjoyed bird watching, getting outside to enjoy the sunshine and tend her flower gardens, or simply sitting down to read a book or put together her next puzzle. She had a great appreciation of music, which she gladly shared, by playing piano and singing in the church choir. Beyond a doubt, family was the one thing that brought the greatest joy to Marilynn’s days, especially when the grandchildren were involved. Marilynn was always their favorite “babysitter”, and she would set up sleep-overs and movie nights on a regular basis, as well as going along on family vacations. She knew how to make everyone feel special, and took joy in writing letters and sending cards for every occasion. We are deeply saddened at the loss of our sweet mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, but take some comfort in the fact that she is now reunited with all of her loved ones called home ahead of her, and awaits our arrival one day in her Heavenly Home.
Those left to cherish Marilynn’s memory include

her children,
Steve (Sherry) Jacobs, Dubuque, IA,
Paula (Ron) Payne, St. Joseph, IL,
Mary (Mike) Cass, Rockford, IL,
Joan (Phil) First, Atlanta, GA,
John (June) Jacobs, Madison, WI,
Don “Jake” (Cheri) Jacobs, East Dubuque, IL
and David (Roxanne) Jacobs, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Amy (Jason) Cassady, Carrie (Mike) Kane, Joshua (Lynda) Payne, Margot (Nate) Lombardi, Lauren Cass, Thomas (Jessica) Cass, Jacob First, Emily (Benoit Welsch) First, Matthew (Kaety) Jacobs, Maggie Jacobs, Paul Jacobs, Austin (Emmy) Jacobs, Christian (Emily) Jacobs, Zachary Jacobs and Dylan Jacobs;

her 15 great-grandchildren;

and her grandson-in-law,
Jim Mitchell, Dubuque, IA.

Marilynn was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul Jacobs; a son, Gregory Jacobs; a granddaughter, Laurie Mitchell; and her 4 sisters and 5 brothers.

Marilynn’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Roots of Dubuque, Hospice of Dubuque, and everyone who has helped to care for Marilynn these past months, allowing her to stay in the home she so loved.

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