Obituaries Archive

Robert C. Sheehan

Robert “Rob” Curtis Sheehan of Dubuque IA, born June 23 1983, gracefully concluded a journey of heroic proportions on April 14, 2018, having battled cardiac angiosarcoma for the past three years. Cardiac angiosarcoma, an exceedingly rare and aggressive malignancy, occurs in only 0.0001% of the population and leaves those affected with an average survival time of a mere six months. Rob’s incredible feat of survival was, to those fortunate to have known him, clearly the result of his insatiable hunger for life and the immense love he shared with his family and friends. Beginning in childhood, Rob’s precocious sense of humor attracted admirers and forged friendships from all walks of life. The grandson of Dubuque historian Gordon Kilgore, Rob inherited a love of Dubuque and an appreciation for the people of the Tri-State area. Professionally, Rob found great joy in serving the customers of Richardson Motors and previously Runde Chevrolet. Above all, Rob’s true passion in life was his role as father and husband. Rob cherished nothing more in life than the ability to spend time with his loving wife and daughters, to cause a smile to grace their faces and occasionally vex them. Exceedingly passionate for every holiday, Rob cherished the opportunity to connect with family and friends while expressing his love of life and all the wonder it provided. As is typical of the hero’s journey, Rob came into his own during his battle with the most ultimate of foes. Despite being informed by the foremost experts and the latest statistics that he faced certain and imminent death, Rob gratefully rose each morning for three years radiating unfathomable positivity, courage, endurance and strength that will forever serve as humbling examples for all who had the privilege of bearing witness. Characteristic of his generous nature, in passing Rob provides us all a final precious gift…the next time you feel that you cannot possibly go on, that a challenge it is too tough or your goal is unrealistic, remember Rob and know that you will go on, that no challenge is too great nor goal unachievable. Rob attended St. Mary’s Elementary School East Dubuque IL, Washington Jr High and Hempstead High School.

Surviving is his wife, Amy, two daughters, Stella and Sophia Sheehan; his father David Sheehan; his mother, Joyce (Brian) Kilgore-Carlin; brother, Dr. James (Carolyn) Sheehan; sister, Kelly (Nick) Stubbe; his paternal grandfather Thomas Sheehan; mother and father-in-law, Jeff and Linda Schadl; a brother-in-law, Tim Schadl; and numerous other relatives.
He was preceded in death by his Paternal Grandmother, Mary Sheehan; his maternal grandparents, Marilyn Kilgore and Gordon Kilgore; and a maternal uncle, Curtis Kilgore.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m, Tuesday, April 24th, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3680 Asbury Road where the service will be at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery at a future time

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

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

Jeanette Emma Miller Gibson

Jeanette Emma Miller Gibson, 93, of Edgewood, Iowa, died on Sunday, April 15, 2018, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home in Edgewood.

Visitation is from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Edgewood. Friends may also call at Trinity United Methodist Church one hour before the funeral service which starts at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, 2018, with Pastor Mike Jackson officiating. Inurnment will be at a later date in Cass Township Cemetery – Strawberry Point, Iowa.

She was born on March 11, 1925, near Elkport in Clayton County to Mike and Alta May (Smock) Miller. She attended country school in Cass Township and graduated from Strawberry Point High School.

Jeanette married Emory Christensen in 1945, and together they had four children. The couple later divorced. In 1956, she married Melvin Miller. Three children were born to this union.

Jeanette was a group leader and dealer for Stanley Home Products for many years. She also worked at Operation New View as an outreach representative for 13 years. She retired from that position and relocated to Ledyard. She helped to establish and then worked for Iowa Lakes Community College’s Kossuth County Retired Senior Volunteer Program (R.S.V.P.) for three years. Jeanette received the Female Outstanding Senior Citizen Award in 1989 for her efforts on behalf of R.S.V.P.

Jeanette was a former member of the Pythian Sister’s Lodge in Manchester, the Legion Auxiliary, and the Modernettes Club in Ledyard. She was also named Senior Advocate for Kossuth County for several years and was elected to the Older Iowan Legislature, serving four years during the early 1990s. She chose to retire in 1991 after marrying Russell Gibson.

Later, Jeanette left retirement behind and went on to work at the Blue Earth Landscape & Greenhouse and Elmore Nursery making Christmas Wreaths, at Seneca Foods as a cook at their canteen in Blue Earth, Minnesota, and as a cook for Dan’s Ledyard Café. She retired for the last time at age 83 and lived in her own home until 2013 when she moved to Lincolnwood Assisted Living in Edgewood and to the Edgewood Convalescent Home in October 2017.

Jeanette enjoyed baking cookies for her children and grandchildren. She also stayed busy vegetable gardening and camping, and she loved to care for her flowers and plants and created a butterfly garden. In 2006, Jeanette published a family cookbook. All copies quickly made their way into the homes of friends, family, and neighbors.

Jeanette copyrighted “Grandma’s Lullaby” in 2006 – a song she wrote when one of her children was a baby. During her winters spent in Arizona, Jeanette realized a couple of her life’s ambitions by learning to paint on canvas and to play the organ. She won numerous ribbons at the Fairbault County Fair, including Grand Champion for her painting entitled “Mom’s Roses.” Copies of her paintings have been made and shared with her children and grandchildren. She also made “Violet,” a porcelain doll, to add to her existing doll collection. In 2015, she wrote a book entitled Things I Remember for her family, which highlights her memories from childhood. Even with so many accomplishments in life, she still felt that her greatest accomplishment was her family.

Jeanette is survived by her seven children, Connie Hilsenbeck of Davenport, Nancy (Jim) Vavricka of Cedar Rapids, Jimmy (Joyce) Christensen of Elk Run Heights, Karen Lee of Perry, and Merri Bohnenkamp, Mike Miller, and Jeff Miller, all of Manchester; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; and one sister, Verla Schultz of Edgewood.

Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Russell Gibson; three sisters, Shirley Ann “Pat” Galloway, Helen Downey, and LaVaune Feulner; two brothers, Homer Miller and Mike Miller, Jr.

The family requests memorials in lieu of flowers.

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

Naoko Crippes

Naoko Crippes, 83 of Dubuque passed away Thursday, April 12, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 16, 2018. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Friends may call from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, April 15, 2018 at Hoffmann-Schneider Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1640 Main Street where there will be a wake service at 6:30 p.m.

Naoko was born April 20, 1934 in Karafato, Japan. She married Robert ‘Bob’ Crippes, November 19, 1968 in Japan.

Naoko grew up in Japan. She enjoyed going to the casinos and play the slots. Also, traveling to South Dakota with her husband. In her younger years she enjoyed knitting and crocheting.

Surviving are her husband Robert ‘Bob’ Crippes; a sister-in-law, Rita (David) Birch, of Dubuque; a brother and sister-in-law, Raymond (Connie) Crippes, of Kieler, WI; five nieces, Laura Crippes, Jill Crippes, Kim (Joe) Schmelz, and Theresa Birch, and Cheryl (Matt) Schromen; one nephew, Tony Birch; and several great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by one infant child.

A special thank you to the staff in the ICU Department at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital for the care of Naoko.

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

John H. Uthe

John H. Uthe, 71, of Fairplay, WI, passed away suddenly on Thursday, April 12, 2018 at home from an apparent heart attack.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 16, 2018 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at Sinsinawa, with Fr. Ken Frisch officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 526 of Hazel Green.

Visitation will be from 1 – 5 p.m. on Sunday, and from 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. on Monday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be at 12:30 p.m. Sunday.

John was born on February 6, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Melvin and Helen (Bonnet) Uthe. The family lived on a farm in rural Hazel Green, WI. John graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964. After graduation, he served in the U. S. Army from 1966 – 1968 during the Vietnam War. He married the love of his life, Joyce DeMuth on September 21, 1968. The couple had two children, Mark & Brian.

During his lifetime John worked at the John Deere Dubuque Works for 38 years, until his retirement in 2004. He was a former member of U.A.W. Local # 94, and a member of American Legion Post # 526 of Hazel Green. After retirement, he worked part-time at Top Notch Plumbing, Heating, & Electrical.

He was an avid Badger and Packer fan. John loved playing golf with his wife Joyce and friends. John enjoyed playing cards with his buddies, and BS-ing at the Barge.

He loved hunting with his sons, brother, and grandsons. When it came to the girls though, it was more of a hot chocolate and donuts kind of hunting morning. John was not a frequent fisherman but he was always there to teach the grandkids how to hook a worm and touch a fish.

His grandkids admired his contagious belly laugh and never left the house with an empty stomach or without a new story about the good ol’ days. John’s grandkids were his pride and joy. Any minute he was able to spend time with them he did. There was not a day that went by that he didn’t see his two youngest and take them for a golf cart ride around Fairplay. John left his family with many great memories that we will cherish forever.

Surviving is his wife Joyce; sons Mark (Julie) Uthe and Brian (Jessica) Uthe both of Fairplay; seven grandchildren, Cassie Jorgensen (fiancé, Michael Foley), Courtney Uthe, Briana Uthe, Hunter Uthe, Dillon Uthe, Colton Uthe and Kylie Uthe; one sister, JoAnne (Don) Gibson and one brother, Dale (Vicki) Uthe, all of Hazel Green; as well as seven brother and sister-in-laws, Mary Jane (David) Busch, Richard (Mary Jean) DeMuth, Betty (Don) Dreessens, Jim (Diane) DeMuth, Eunice (Bill) Oster, Tom (Sandy) DeMuth, Joe (Janice) DeMuth; and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Melvin and Helen, his infant brother Carl, and his father-in-law Clarence & mother-in-law Evelyn DeMuth.

In lieu of flowers, a John Uthe memorial fund has been established.

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

Dale LeRoy Chally

Dale LeRoy Chally, 84, passed away peacefully Thursday, Apr. 12, 2018, surrounded by his huge, loving family.

Visitation will begin at 10 am Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 8300 C Ave NE in Marion where a funeral service will commence at 12:00 Noon. Burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Monticello. Rev. Jody Skogen will officiate and the Monticello Drill Team and the Iowa Army Honors Detail will accord military honors.

Dale served in the US Army from 1954 to 1956 during the Korean conflict. He started raising his family in Plano, Illinois, and ended up in Monticello, Iowa. Dale was a “jack-of-all-trades”. He owned and operated many businesses during his life, including a car sales lot, an excavating business, an auto repair shop and the Millhurst Resort campground in Illinois. He ended his careers as a farmer. His children and grandchildren learned many useful talents from Dad and Grandpa.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife and soul mate of 63 years, Joan Chally, his children: Rod Chally (Jan Jemison), Robin (Earl) Basham, of Cedar Rapids, Tamie (Wendell) Singsaas, Fontana CA, Todd (Teresa) Chally, Anamosa, Lori (Bill) Johnston, Karen Chally, Cedar Rapids and Scott (Patricia) Chally, Monticello; his grandchildren: Jerod (Lindsey) Chally, Jesse (Michelle) Coohey, Justin Coohey (April Valentine), Zantz McConnell (Julitta Weber), Kimberly Brewer, Jason (Christine) Brewer, Cole Singsaas, Heather (Joshua) Sproston, Jennifer Chally (Tony Puetz), Erika Chally, Joanie (Cliff) Hedlund, Cody Johnston (Haley Gillen), Tyler Johnston (Sara Hedlund), Logan Johnston, Alex, Nicholas, Christian, Janik, Vanessa & Dominik Chally and Stevie Neilson; 21 great grandchildren; his sisters: Darlene Brugh, June Thompson; his brother Leonard Jr. (Leora) Chally; a brother-in-law, Louis (Terri) Stemmet; and his puppy dog, Molly.

He was welcomed to heaven by his parents, Leonard & Bertha (Lundy) Chally and sisters, Vivian Walker & Barbara Johnson.

His family would like to deeply thank the staff of St. Luke’s Hospital, Unity Point Hospice and Pastors Jody & Gordon for all of their around the clock support.

Memorials can be made in Dale’s honor to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 8300 C Ave NE, Marion IA 52302.

Information available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Joseph L. Knox

Joseph L. “Joe” Knox, 81, of Cuba City, Wisconsin, died Thursday, April 12, 2018, at UW-Hospitals and Clinics.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City with Pastor Bruce Bennett officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Cuba City. Friends may call from 4-8 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Joe was born on March 21, 1937, in Cuba City, Wisconsin, the son of Jesse and Mary Ann (Glasker) Knox. He married Carol Peacock on August 2, 1958, in Galena, Illinois. Joe worked in the mines until serving in the US Army. After returning he worked as a carpenter for 50 years for Carpenters Union #678.

Joe enjoyed watching Badgers, Packers and Brewers on TV. He also enjoyed gardening, bowling and Sunday afternoon joy rides. Joe loved to tinker; there was never a project he was afraid to take on. He also enjoyed playing with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Joe was everyone’s friend and was always there to lend a helping hand.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; two daughters, Deb (Jack Carrington) Burlison, of Dousman, WI, and Pam (Jason) Mootz, of Cuba City; two sons, Dennis Knox, of Cuba City, and Tim (Chris) Knox, of Oregon, WI; a sister, Adeline Gibbons, of Cuba City; a brother, Jim (Carol A.) Knox, of Cuba City; seven grandchildren, T.J. (Nicole), Jen (Matt), Krystal, Bart, Blake, Natalie, and Nicole; and six great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Brielle, Aleria, Brayden, Camden and McKinley “Sissy”.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Mable Knox, Lillian (Norbert) Kowalski and Mary Ann Shaffer; a brother, Willis (Helen) Knox; a brother-in-law, John Gibbons; and his father and mother-in-law, Al and Fran Stotmeister.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net.

Peggy Ann Dannatt

Peggy Ann Dannatt, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday morning, April 12, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

A celebration of Peggy’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Monday, April 16, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. until 11:15 A.M. Burial will be at the Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Peggy Ann Wallroff was born on February 12, 1951 in Cascade, Iowa, to Charlie A. Wallroff and Ruth H. (Lazenby) Wathier. She attended Maquoketa schools. She married William L. “Bill” Dannatt on September 9, 1988 in Clinton, Iowa. He preceded her in death on June 21, 2003.

Prior to being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, Peggy had worked as a waitress and cook at various restaurants in Maquoketa, Ottumwa and Clinton, sometimes working three jobs.

Peggy was a past member of the Maquoketa VFW Ladies Auxiliary, and had served as a past president of the Andrew AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary and the Clinton AMVETS Ladies Auxiliary. She enjoyed playing Bingo and Yahtzee. She especially enjoyed all holidays and spending time with her family. She was an avid collector of rabbits.

Those left to honor her memory include her sisters, Linda Campbell of Maquoketa, IA, Janet (Gene) Chase of Oxford Junction, IA, Mary (Don) Brooks of Maquoketa, IA, and Gerry Wallroff of Des Moines, IA; brothers-in-law, Weaver Crouch and Dennis Glaser; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, an infant brother Albert Wallroff, a brother-in-law Larry Campbell, and sisters Hazel Crouch and Connie Glaser.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Peggy Ann Dannatt memorial fund has been established.

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

Donna Boll

Donna “Mick” Boll, 80, of Dubuque passed away on Wednesday, April 11, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center.

Funeral Services will be 10:30 am, Monday, April 16, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd. Family will greet friends 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, April 15, 2018 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Donna was born December 1, 1937 in Dubuque the daughter of William and Dorothy (Haupert) Radloff. She married Sylvester J. Boll on June 21, 1958, he passed on January 10, 2004.

Donna worked at the Dubuque Packing House, Galena Glove & Mitten, Dubuque Community Schools, and Walsh True Value over the years.

She was an avid Cubs Fan, Chicago Bears Fan, enjoyed a trip to the casino, and bowling. Donna enjoyed playing cards with her friends at the Rose, and going out to eat with her bowling friends. She found the greatest joy spending time with her great grandson, Cayden.

Survivors include her children, Donald Boll and Suzanne (Richard) Roussel; granddaughters, Lindsay (Nick) Rozinek and Melissa Roussel; great-grandson, Cayden Rozinek; a step-brother, George Brandel, Jr.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; 2 infant sons, Joseph and William; and a step-brother, Robert Duehr.

The family would like to thank the staff of ICU Mercy Hospital for her care.

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

Online condolences may be left for the family at Hoffmann-Schneider Funeral Homes and Cremation Services, www.hoffmannschneiderfuneralhomes.com

Mellita Virginia (Hanten) Pommerich

Mellita Virginia (Hanten) Pommerich, 81, passed away surrounded by loved ones on April 10 at Assisi Village in Dubuque, Iowa.

Mellita was born at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque on February 27, 1937 to Salome (Walsh) and Raymond Hanten.
Mellita attended St. Joseph’s School in Key West; Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque; and Clarke College, where she graduated with honors. She taught elementary school for five years in Rockford, Illinois and Dubuque Public Schools.

On August 22, 1964, Mellita married Robert Pommerich, a Loras College professor, at St. Columbkille Church in Dubuque. After living in Madison, Wisconsin, while Bob was in graduate school, they returned to Dubuque and settled at 1150 Edina Street where they reared four children.

Mellita came from a musical family. She was the drummer in the seven-piece Hanten Family Orchestra, which played for weddings and dances in area venues in the 1950s. She also enjoyed playing the piano, especially by ear, in the company of friends and family. Together she and Bob fostered a love of music in their children. They attended concerts in Dubuque and afar, and they were season ticket holders for the Dubuque Symphony Orchestra (in which their daughter performed). She and the family used to present musical programs in nursing homes. In recent years, Mellita entertained residents and guests at Assisi Village with her broad repertoire on the piano.

In her earlier years, Mellita was active in the Loras Faculty Wives organization and with the Stonehill Care Center Auxiliary. She and Bob enjoyed playing bridge and were regular partners at the Dubuque Area Lifetime Center. Mellita liked traveling to visit her children and their families. She once voyaged by ship to Europe with her mother, and she and Bob especially savored touring in England and Greece (where their son’s family was living).

Mellita is survived by her husband of fifty-three years, Bob, and by four children and five grandchildren: Karen (Mike Hosford) Pommerich of Swannanoa, North Carolina; Jim (Finola Keohane) Pommerich and their children Liam, Tara and Rory, of Ann Arbor, Michigan; Mary (Skip Kadish) Pommerich of Marina, California; and John (Karen Saxer) Pommerich and their children Earl and Raymond, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Mellita is survived by four siblings: Geri (Tom) Goodman, Loras (Pat) Hanten, and Dan (the late Barb) Hanten, all of Dubuque; and Gene Hanten of Lodi, California. Mellita also is survived by eleven nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 3 PM – 7 PM on Friday, April 13 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home at 3860 Asbury Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM Saturday, April 14 at Church of the Nativity with Monsignor James Miller presiding. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Condolences may be offered at hoffmannschneiderfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Clarke University, the Dubuque Rescue Mission, or the Sisters of St. Francis.

The family would like to thank the staff of Assisi Village and Dubuque Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.

Tom and Mary Lou Aird

Heaven gained two very special angels on April 7, 2018. Thomas M. “Tom” Aird, 62, and Mary Lou Aird, 60, of Dickeyville, Wisconsin passed as a result of injuries suffered in a car accident while visiting family in Tennessee. Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, April 16, 2018, at St. Rose of Lima Church in Cuba City with Rev. Bernard Rott officiating. Burial will be in Holy Ghost Cemetery in Dickeyville. Friends may call from 1-6 p.m. Sunday at the Immaculate Conception Parish Center in Kieler where the parish wake service will be at 12:30 p.m. Friends may also call from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Monday at Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Cuba City before the services.

Tom was born September 9, 1955, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Arthur and Rose Marie (Gagne) Aird. He grew up in the Hazel Green area and attended Southwestern High School. Mary Lou was born July 7, 1957, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Robert “Bob” and Darlene (Droessler) Lange. She was a proud lifelong resident of West Lane, and attended Cuba City High School. Tom and Mary Lou were high school sweethearts and were married on February 28, 1976. Tom and Mary Lou settled on West Lane and raised three children while Tom worked at the Cuba City School District for 30 years and Mary Lou worked at Honeywell in Galena for 33 years. Both had just recently found their dream job of being retired and full time grandparents.

Tom and Mary Lou cherished their family more than anything in the world. Their family went far beyond what most call family, as they had so many close friends. Their favorite people in the world however, were their grandchildren. If Tom and Mary Lou were not home, you could almost guarantee they were somewhere chasing one of them. Mary Lou and Tom were amazing grandparents. They spent their time wisely as all the grandchildren have special memories of them. When asked what was the most special, they talked about sneaking out for ice cream (if grandma wasn’t watching), early morning fishing…the earlier the better, Johnson Lake, Northerns the size of the kids, the many adventures with the porcupines, and the cabin…they all loved the cabin. Desserts will never be the same and some of their moms are going to have to learn to cook now. The fishing boat, which Mary Lou did more reading than fishing in. Raised as a dairy farmer’s daughter, she never cared much for milk but loved her wine. She was the only grandma they knew that enjoyed sledding as much as they did, and she could sit and listen to them play the piano and sing “you are my sunshine” for hours. Tom’s love for the outdoors has been passed along to the next two generations. Grandpa was a hunting buddy to all. Some of their best trips resulted in snacks and stories but no shooting. Tom was also notorious for teasing, but secretly they loved it. There wasn’t a ref around that was safe from Mary Lou and if they were not doing their job she’d let them know. Her voice could always be heard and the mandatory two arm hug after every competition will be fondly missed. Their unconditional love for anyone they came in contact with, has taught us all how to love no matter what, and they leave behind a community who they loved so dearly.

Tom and Mary Lou are survived by their three children, Michael (Amanda) Aird, Darlington, WI, Sarah (Jeremy) Wagner, Mondovi, WI, and Matthew (Misty) Aird, McKenzie, TN; Tom’s mother, Rose Marie Aird, Rolling Meadows, IL; their eight grandchildren who were their pride and joy in life, Ethan and Eli, Brandon, Cody, and Anna, Maggie, Zach, and Gracie; Mary Lou’s brothers, Rick (Mary Kay) Lange, Prairie du Chien, WI and Kevin (Jean) Lange, Dickeyville, WI; Tom’s sisters, Sue (Bob) Heller, Munford, TN, Blanche Hough, Katy, TX, and Nancy Pelletier, Darien, IL; and Tom’s brother, Kenny (Cindy) Aird, Cuba City. They were preceded in death by Tom’s father, Arthur; Mary Lou’s parents, Robert “Bob” and Darlene; and their nephew, Jeremy Heller.

A Thomas M. “Tom” and Mary Lou Aird Memorial Fund has been established. Memorials may be sent to 837 Valley View Court, Darlington, WI 53530.

Online condolence for the family may be left at www.caseyfuneralhome.net

Bonnie L. Brimeyer

Bonnie L. Brimeyer, age 59, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 1:40 a.m., on Wednesday, April 11, 2018, at home, surrounded by her loving family, following a lengthy battle with neuroendocrine cancer. To honor Bonnie’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 14, 2018, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Andrew Awotwe-Mensah officiating. To celebrate Bonnie’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, April 13, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where a parish scripture wake service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Family and friends may also visit on Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m., at Behr Funeral Home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Bonnie was born on March 12, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Clifford and Doris (Ritt) Brimeyer.

Bonnie surely enjoyed growing up in Sherrill and was a proud graduate of Hempstead High School, Class of 1977, and later in life even went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Clarke College in 1999. She was a diligent and devoted worker at Flexsteel who just recently celebrated her 40th anniversary with all of her friends she’s made over the years. In her free time, Bonnie enjoyed traveling extensively whenever the opportunity would present itself and was thankful to be fortunate enough to see both Alaska and Hawaii firsthand. She also thoroughly enjoy quilting and has created many beautiful keepsakes, and made countless treasured friends throughout her journey in the sewing community. Bonnie’s faith was also very important to her as Bonnie was a long-time member of Holy Ghost Church. The most important aspect of Bonnie’s life though was definitely her family. She was always there for anyone who needed a little moral support, and also graciously played the most wonderful role of “Aunt” the world has ever seen. Bonnie’s impact on the world around her is undeniable. Whether within her circle of family, friends, or even with her furry felines; Bonnie had enough love and devotion to fill a lifetime of memories to be cherished by all whom she leaves behind today. We will miss our dear Bonnie, her radiant smile, along with her endearing typical red-headed character traits; but we know and accept that the Lord has decided to allow Bonnie to finally quit fighting cancer to join Him, and her father, in a glorious state of perfection where she can wait peacefully for her loved ones to eventually join her again one day.

Those left to cherish Bonnie’s memory include

her mother,
Doris Brimeyer, Sherrill, IA;

her siblings,
Diane (Harold) Breitsprecker, Jr., Dubuque, IA
and Paul Brimeyer, Dubuque, IA;

2 nephews,
Chad (Angie) Breitsprecker
and Nathan (Lisa) Breitsprecker;

and 5 great-nephews,
Lane, Tate, Ian, Danny and Tommy.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her father, Clifford Brimeyer.

A Bonnie L. Brimeyer memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among her favorite charities.

Bonnie’s family would like to thank the doctors and staff at Medical Associates, Mercy Hospital and UIHC in Iowa City, and the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Cindy and Amy, for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care. We would also like to thank Bonnie’s Flexsteel family for all of the love and support they’ve provided throughout her 4 year battle. May God bless you all for your kindnesses!

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

Susan K. Gregory

Susan K. Gregory, 61, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, at her home in Maquoketa.

A celebration of Susan’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, April 19, 2018, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the service beginning at 9:30 A.M. Burial will be at the Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Susan Kay Gregory was born on January 9, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Arthur “Red” and Dorothy (Duhme) Gregory. She was a 1976 graduate of DeWitt High School and while in high school had worked at Martha’s Café in DeWitt. Following graduation, Susan worked at ADAC and later DAC, Inc., both in Maquoketa.

Susan was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church. She enjoyed board games, cards, puzzles, and was a Los Angeles Dodgers fan.

Those left to honor her memory include her brother James “Jim” Gregory (and his girlfriend Carol Schwien) of Delmar, IA; and her very, very special friend and significant other, Duane Westphal of Maquoketa, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents, and her beloved dogs Hawkeye and Dusty.

Online Condolences may be left at www.carsonandson.com

Melvin E. Zmudka

Melvin E. Zmudka, 89, of Bernard, Iowa passed away peacefully on Monday, April 9, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Melvin may call from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 13, 2018 at the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa. The Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

Mass of Christian burial for Melvin will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, April 13, 2018 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Garryowen, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He was born May 7, 1928 in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Anthony and Rose (Brzozonaski) Zmudka. He received his education from Holy Ghost Catholic Schools in Dubuque, Iowa and St. Patrick’s Schools in Garryowen, Iowa. He served in the United States Army during the Korean War, serving most of his time in Germany. He was proud to serve his country alongside his fellow comrades. His love for his country continued on after the army by serving in his local Legion, VFW and AM Vets Post. Melvin farmed all his life in Bernard, Iowa.

Melvin was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish in Garryowen, Iowa. He was also a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528, Maquoketa VFW Post #3633 and the AM Vets Post #62 in Andrew, Iowa.

He is survived by many cousins.

He is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Tony, Alex and Pat Zmudka.

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

Stephen J. Knipper

Stephen Joseph Knipper, 68, of Manchester, Iowa, passed away on Monday, April 9, 2018, at the Hospice House in Hiawatha. He was born on March 7, 1950, in Edgewood, the son of Raymond and Betty (Martens) Knipper.

Stephen graduated from Ed-Co High School in 1968. He was united in marriage to Susan Shea. Three children were born to this union. They resided in Manchester, where Stephen worked at United Building Center. The couple later divorced.

Stephen was an avid ice fisherman. He loved spending time with family, especially his children and granddaughter.

Survivors include Stephen’s mother, Betty Knipper of Edgewood; his two sons, Stephen (Amy French) Knipper Jr. of Wadena and Shane (Kat Richman) Knipper of Marion; one granddaughter, Isabella Knipper; and three siblings, David (Ann) Knipper of Melcher, Marilyn Sundermeyer of Edgewood, and Dennis (Annette) Knipper of Edgewood.

Stephen was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Knipper, and his daughter, Sharon Knipper.

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

Mass of Christian Burial: 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 16, 2018, at St. Mark Catholic Church in Edgewood, with Reverend John Haugen officiating.

Visitation: 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 15, 2018, at Leonard-Muller Funeral Home in Edgewood. Friends may also call one hour before Mass at the church on Monday.

Inurnment at a Later Date: St. Mary Catholic Cemetery – Manchester, Iowa

Angeline (Arvanitis) Rittenburg

Angeline (Arvanitis) Rittenburg, 88, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, April 3, 2018.

Funeral Services will be 12:00 pm (noon), Saturday, May 12, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home 1640 Main St. Family will greet friends 10:30 am until service times on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at the funeral home. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Angeline was born June 8, 1929 the daughter of George P. and Edna (Borek) Arvanitis. She married Everett C. Rittenburg on October 30, 1949; he passed in 1989.

Survivors include her sons, Kurt (Carol), Karl, and Kenton Rittenburg; grandchildren, Christina (Rob Candiano) and Kathryn (Chris Tobin); great-grandchildren, Lani, Matthew, Lena, Daisy, and Morgan; siblings, Dorothy Kobs, and Deana Gulyash; 2 nieces, 2 nephews; and several great nieces and nephews; and one great-great niece.

Angeline was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; and brother in-laws, Clarence Kobs and Ronald Gulyash.

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

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