Obituaries Archive

Joseph M. Bowerman

Joseph M. “Joe” Bowerman, age 63, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 6, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To honor Joe’s life, funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, May 11, 2018, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating. To celebrate Joe’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Thursday, May 10, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum. Full military honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Joe was born on October 22, 1954, in Baltimore, MD, son of Biays and Lois (Powers) Bowerman.

Joe was a proud graduate of Wahlert High School, Class of 1972, and in true patriotic fashion would immediately join the Marine Corps after graduation. Joe would go on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Marines Corps for 6 years, and then joined the U.S. Navy Reserves, where he spent another 20 years until his eventual retirement from the military in 2001 as a Senior Chief Construction Mechanic, CMCS. During his service, Joe was able to not only visit many of the bases stateside, but he also had the opportunity to make it to Japan and Puerto Rico. He continued to enjoy getting together monthly, with his fellow comrades from the Seabees, to swap stories and solve the world’s problems without any interference from outside forces. Joe was united in marriage to the love of his life, Jane Hartmann, on October 2, 1976, at the Church of the Resurrection in Dubuque. They were truly blessed with 41 wonderful years together, and 4 adored children. Joe was undeniably raised with a strong work ethic and after serving active duty with the U.S. Marine Corps, he continued to put his talents to great use in the maintenance departments at Sears Auto Center, and Loras College, until his final retirement from the working world in 2008. Joe also used his considerable skills to work on his beloved 1968 Dodge Dart, always keeping it in tip-top shape and spending “countless hours” working on his full-body restoration. His spiritual faith was of the utmost importance to Joe also as he was a long-time member of St. Raphael’s Cathedral, and continually strived to be the best man he could be while trapped in his earthly temple. Joe and Jane also enjoyed traveling extensively and loved to share the photos, souvenirs and stories they collected along the way with family, friends and anyone with an open ear. Without a doubt though, spending time with his family was the one thing which brought Joe the greatest joy throughout his life; and when the grandkids, and great-grandkids starting coming along, his joy was abundantly doubled. We are deeply saddened with the loss of our beloved husband, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle and friend, but take comfort in knowing that Joe is finally free of the health challenges he has faced so gracefully the last 2 years. Joe, you were an excellent example of what it means to be a true leader and patriarch of such a loving and extensive family, and we will diligently carry those lessons forward with us until we see you again!

Those left to cherish Joe’s memory include

his loving wife,
Jane Bowerman, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Donald “Don” (Tracy) Bowerman, Fort Worth, TX,
Jennifer Reif, Dubuque, IA,
Nick (Mady) Bowerman, Dubuque, IA
and Katie Jo (Tom) Besler, Dubuque, IA;

7 grandchildren,
Debbie (Mark) Allen, Collin Bowerman, Sam Bowerman, Christian Reif, Ethan Reif, Brock Reif and Morgan Quick;

a great-granddaughter,
Ashley Allen;

his siblings,
Stephen (Janet) Bowerman, Colorado Springs, CO,
Mary Bowerman, Tacoma, WA,
Paul (Stacie) Bowerman, Wilmington, NC,
Beth (Ken) Jaeger, Dubuque, IA,
Rich (Jennifer) Bowerman, Hendersonville, NC
and Pete (Sue) Bowerman, Makanda, IL;

his several nieces and nephews;

and his dear and special friends,
Vince Conner, Doris Hannan, Lisa Williams, Janet Quick and Maurna Stover.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents; and his in-laws, Don and Mabel Hartmann.

Joe’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Joe, and his entire family.

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

Mary Kay Leytem

Mary Kay Leytem, 77, of Dubuque passed away on Monday, May 7, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Friday, May 11, 2018 at Holy Spirit Parish-Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Family will greet friends 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Thursday, May 10, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd with a 7:30 pm Scripture Service, additional visitation will be 9:15 am – 10:00 am, Friday prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Mary Kay was born July 8, 1940 in Dubuque the oldest child of John J. and Lenore M. (Knockel) Leytem. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Academy and worked at various places over the years, until retiring from A.Y. McDonald.

Mary Kay always enjoyed the Cat Fish Festival and enjoyed being around her family.

Survivors include her siblings, Jeanette Loso of Rockford, IL, Jane (Garth) Tomkins of Asbury, Connie Kemp of Mesa, AZ, Madonna (Roger) Sopha of Arlington, WI, Sue (William) Davis of Durango, Luellen Swan of Asbury, Lynn (Richard) Koos of Peosta, William Leytem of Dubuque, John “Whitey” (Lois) Leytem of Asbury, and Daniel “Joe” (Maureen) Leytem of Asbury; also surviving, numerous nieces and nephews.

May Kay was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Michael Leytem; nephews, Steven and John Tomkins, Matthew Sofa, in infancy a nephew Jordan Sopha and a niece, Lori Kemp; brother in-laws, Loras Kemp and George Swan; a great niece, Laura Tomkins; and longtime friend, Donna Ginter.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial find has been established in Mary Kay’s memory.

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

Emery Meeker Jr.

Emery “Fred” Meeker Jr., 90, of Dubuque, IA passed away Friday, May 4, 2018 at Hillcrest Luther Manor in Dubuque, IA.

Friends and relatives of Fred may call from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Saturday, May 12, 2018 at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA. The Reiff Funeral Home of Epworth, IA is in charge of arrangements.
Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church with Pastor Robin Luckey presiding. Burial will be held at Highview Cemetery in Epworth, IA, with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Fred was born January 9, 1928 in Tulsa, OK, son of Emery “Fred” and Elma (Stanzyk) Meeker Sr. He is a 1945 graduate of Lena High School in Lena, IL. He is also a 1955 graduate of Bayless Business College which was in Dubuque, IA. On July 23, 1946, he was united in marriage to Ardrith A. “Ardie” Allen. He was employed with the Illinois Central Railroad for 42 years as a telegrapher and Agent Yardmaster.

Fred was an Army Veteran, serving in the Korean Was from 1951 to 1953 as a Radio Operator for the Peace Convey using international code and was present at The Peace Treaty and exchange of prisoners at Panmunjom in July of 1953.

Fred enjoyed cutting firewood, working on the apartments and square dancing. He was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church, the American Legion John White Post #650, the Highview Cemetery Association and the Epworth Historical Society.

He is survived by his wife Ardrith “Snowball” Meeker; his children Paul (Lorie) Meeker and Robert Meeker; a granddaughter, Arleta Meeker; a brother, Harold Meeker; a brother-in-law, Marvin (Rosemary) Nickol; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He is preceded in death by a son, Dennis Dean Meeker on January 30, 1956; his parents; his father and mother-in-law, Arnold and Minnie (Nickerson) Allen; his sisters-in-law Arlene A. Nickol, Beth Meeker and Betty Meeker.

The family requests in lieu of flowers that memorials be given to St. Peter Lutheran Church, Hospice of Dubuque, Hillcrest Luther Manor Care Center or a charity of your choice.

A special “Thank You” to Cozy Corner, Hillcrest Luther Manor, Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Thomas Sinsky, Medical Associates and family and friends for the good care Fred received.

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

Francis J. Reinert

Francis Joseph “Frank” Reinert, 84, of Dubuque died Friday, May 04, 2018 at Stonehill Care Center. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Church of the Resurrection where visitation will be held Wednesday from 3 to 8 pm with a parish wake service at 7:30 p.m. Entombment will be in Mt. Calvary Mausoleum where military rites will be accorded.
Francis was born January 27, 1934 to Anselm and Henrietta (Deppe) Reinert of Petersburg, Iowa. He graduated from Loras Academy and attended Loras College. He served in the Army in Germany 1956-1958 in the 5th Infantry, 8th Division Hq Co and band. He married Mary Theresa Kraus on April 20, 1960 at Immaculate Conception Church, Sand Springs, IA. She preceded him in death February 20, 2004.

Francis was a member of Local #289 Dubuque Musicians Association, Clarence Zahina Band, Frank Barry Band, and the Music Masters Band. He retired from Peoples Natural Gas Co after 31 years and was a member of Gas Workers Local 402. He worked as a yardman for Ed and Joan Tschiggfrie for 21 years. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for 60 years and the Northeast Iowa Boy Scouts Council for 42 years. He served as Scoutmaster of Resurrection Troop 91 and was an Order of Arrow Vigil member and advisor. During his years of involvement in Scouting, Francis was honored with receiving; George Meaney Award, Award of Merit, The St. George Emblem, The Founders Award and The Silver Beaver. He was fortunate to be able to go on Honor Flight VIII in 2013. He enjoyed woodworking, crafts and his grandchildren.

He is survived by his children Theresa Schreiber (Bill Howard) of Williamsburg, VA, Robert Reinert (Jill Connors) of Dubuque, IA and Carolyn (Paul) Herman of Peosta, IA; his grandchildren Maria (Luke) Sulentic of Algona, IA, Stephanie (Steven) Cook of Gilbert, AZ, Matt (fiancé Ariel Clark) Herman of Peosta, IA, Courtney Herman of Peosta, IA, Nick Reinert of Omaha, NE, and Aubrey Reinert of Cedar Rapids, IA; and two great grandsons, Peyton and Graham Sulentic of Algona, IA. His siblings, Margaret (Bernard) Monaghan of Manchester, IA, Cecelia (Don) Lueck of Dyersville, IA and Agnes (John) Coakley of Kansas City, KS; Sisters-in-law Ann (Boeckenstedt) Reinert of Dyersville, IA and Janaan (Smith) Kraus of Monticello, IA; Brother-in-law Carl (June) Kraus of Worthington, IA and many nieces and nephews.

He is also preceded in death by his parents, sister Mary Ann (1944) and brother Alfred (2014), brothers and sister-in-law Victor (Janice) Kraus and Walter Kraus.

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

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Skilled Care Unit, Roots, Resurrection Choir members. The family would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to long-time friend and band member Otto Krueger of Dubuque, IA.

Janette M. Strang

Janette M. (Kirby) Strang 74 of Peosta died Friday, May 4, 2018 at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital. Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Thursday, May 10, 2018 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta. Family will greet friends 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home 3860 Asbury Rd. with a 7:00 pm Scripture Service. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Janette was born May 24, 1943 in Hopkinton, daughter of Paul and Helen (Haas) Kirby. She was the only girl in a family with six children. She married Joseph Strang on November 25, 1961 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Monticello, Iowa, he passed on June 21, 2007. Janette worked at Kmart for many years, she also owned and operated the Double J Bar for 30 years. Jan loved the people she got to know as friends at the Double J Bar and became well known for her delicious sloppy joes and broasted chicken; a person never went hungry with Jan around. Jan enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She enjoyed cooking, reading, family get togethers and watching her grandchildren in whatever endeavor they were involved. While always a sweet and kind person, she had no problem taking your money in Euchre, Pinochle, Poker…sitting down and playing cards for a few hours was her idea of a good time. She will be missed and will miss her card partners in crime.

Survivors include her two sons, Brad (Kim) Strang of Dubuque and Brian Strang of Dubuque; her three daughters, Cindy (Tom) Steffens of Peosta, Sandy (Jeff) Urbain of Peosta, and Sarah (Edward) Maloney of LaGrange, IL; twelve grandchildren, Nathan and Nicole Strang, Krystal Hesseling, Billy Patrum, Jessica Fleckenstein, Molly and Michael Steffens, Rachel Millman, Chad and Katelyn Urbain, Samantha and Joseph Maloney; six (almost seven), great-grandchildren, Addelyn, Kaylee, Paige, Carter, Dylan, and Ayden; four brothers, Alan (Lorna) Kirby, Kenneth (Sandy) Kirby, Ronald (Kathy) Kirby all of Strawberry Point; and Thomas (Dorothy) Kirby of Monticello.

Janette was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years; her parents; a brother, Robert Kirby; and her daughter in-law, Cindy Strang.

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

The family would like to thank Jim and Kim Koetz for their spiritual support of Jan the last months of her life and the staff at Finley Hospital who supported Jan. Jan’s family would also like to thank, her good friend, JoAnne McGuire for her help over the last several months.

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

Alan W. VanOstrand

Alan W. “Web” VanOstrand, 51, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Sunday, April 29, 2018 from injuries received in a motor vehicle accident near Luxemburg, IA.

Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 8, 2018, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where a Christian Prayer Service will be held at 7:30 p.m., with Deacon Tony Kepplerofficiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Alan was born on December 6, 1966 in Dubuque, IA, the son of J. Wade and Marilyn (Doser) VanOstrand. He attended East Dubuque High School. Alan married Debra Leppert on December 8, 2017 in Dubuque, IA.

Alan was a manager at Miracle Car Wash.

Surviving is his wife Debra; two children, Uriah and Olivia; three step-children, Emily Leppert, Brittany Walters and Tori Walters; five step-grandchildren; his mother, Marilyn VanOstrand; his siblings, Terry, David (Deb), Todd (Laurie), Kirk (Michele), Brian (Lisa), Jody (Chad) Clikeman, Joe (Angie), and Jon (Darcie); his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Mike and Dorothy Leppert; sister-in-laws, Theresa (Dave) Hughes and Laura (Jason) Sindahl; numerous nieces and nephews; and his former wife, Dana VanOstrand.

He was preceded in death by his father Wade and two nephews, Nicholas VanOstrand, and Jason Wanke.

In lieu of flowers an Alan W. VanOstrand memorial fund has been established.

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

Joan P. Lawler

Joan P. Lawler, 70, of Peosta, Iowa, passed away on Friday, May 4, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Joan may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 8, 2018 at St. John’s the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, Iowa where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Friends may also call after 9 a.m, Wednesday at the church. The Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa is in charge of arrangements.

A Mass of Christian burial for Joan will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at St. John the Baptist in Peosta, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding and Rev. Richard Kuhn concelebrating. Burial will be held in St. John’s Cemetery in Centralia, Iowa.

Joan was born May 5, 1947 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Merlin J. and Jean (Wilkinson) Connolly. She received her education from the Casey’s School through the 8th grade and graduated from Western Dubuque High School in 1965. Following graduation she worked at Xavier Hospital until going to nursing school at Eastern Iowa Community College in Davenport, Iowa where she graduated with her LPN in 1969. After graduating she returned to Xavier Hospital and worked until 1974. On December 27, 1975 She was united in marriage to William “Bill” Lawler at Holy Family Catholic Church in New Melleray (rural Peosta), Iowa. The couple farmed in the rural Peosta area. Joan was a Nurse at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa for 15 years until her retirement.

She was a member of St. John the Baptist Parish in Peosta, Iowa and past president of St. John’s the Baptist Alter and Rosary Socety and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Joan was a first responder for Centralia – Peosta Fire Department for 22 years.

She is survived by her husband, Bill Lawler of Peosta, IA; five children, Jeff (Colleen) Lawler of Peosta, IA, Tim (Terri) Lawler of Dubuque, IA, Rick (Sue) Lawler of Epworth, IA, Shelly (Jeff) Wolf of Peosta, IA and Dan (Cori) Lawler of Dubuque, IA; 13 grandchildren, Dallas (Ben), Becky (Jake), Garret, Jesse (Kara), Cody (Cali), Austin, Levi, Hannah, Alex, Amya, Keyonna, Noah and Ryley; 5 great grandchildren, Colton, Nate, Caden, Reece and Tatum; three sisters, Madalyn Schilling, Doris (Ronald) McAuliffe, Marla Baumgartner all of Peosta, IA; one brother, Ronald (Linda) Connolly of Dubuque, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; one son, Kevin J. Lawler on November 22, 1988; and a sister-in-law, Mary Connolly; brother-in-law, James Schilling and many aunts and uncles.

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

Terri Ann Conner

Terri Ann Conner, age 52, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 2, 2018, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. To celebrate Terri’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Sunday, May 6, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Terri was born on April 4, 1966, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Robert and Lorraine (Rokusek) Kleinschrodt.

Terri was united in marriage to the love of her life, Mark Conner, on September 25, 1999, at Eagle Point Park in Dubuque. The loving couple has been blessed with 18 years together, and 2 adored children. Starting in 2004, she began working at Dubuque Internal Medicine and was able to earnestly share her “sometimes overly organizational skills” with many co-workers and friends for almost 12 years until her health restricted Terri from continuing on a daily basis. Terri was also a great lover of the outdoors; whether it was a weekend of camping at Waupeton with the family, enjoying a lazy day under the sun out on the pontoon boat, relaxing with her canine companion Lucy by her side, or hitting the open road with Mark on the Harley for the day to enjoy the wind in her hair, anytime Terri was outside in the fresh air, she was surely smiling. Above all though, family was always the most important aspect of Terri’s life and nothing could ever bring her true joy like a little personal time with the grandkids. Sadly, the last few years have presented a series of health challenges for Terri to face. But, in true Terri fashion, they were all faced with the courage and positive spirit of a real fighter. She never gave up, always kept those around her positive and her attitude through it all has been nothing short of a real life inspiration of the type of character we’d all wish to possess through even the toughest days along our earthly journey. We will miss Terri more than words could ever possibly depict, and only time and faith can possibly heal our hearts now; but we are forever grateful for the 52 years the Lord shared Terri with us, the beautiful memories and wonderful example she leaves behind, along with the knowledge that Terri is not only reunited with her Dad once again, but also gets to spend a little quality time relaxing with her other favorite canine companion, Lucky.

Those left to cherish Terri’s memory include

her loving husband,
Mark Conner, Dubuque, IA;

her children,
Leland (Megan) Conner, Dubuque, IA
and Amanda (Daniel) Wallin, Dubuque, IA;

her 5 grandchildren,
William and Camden Conner
and Travis, Derrick and Amelia Wallin;

her mother,
Lorriane Kleinschrodt, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Kevin and Kimberly;

and also several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Terri was preceded in death by her father, Robert Kleinschrodt.

Terri’s family would like to thank Dr. Mark Hermann, the Oncology Department, along with the nurses and staff on 4th Floor at Finley Hospital for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Terri. The family would also like to extend a very special thank you to Terri’s long-time and dear friend, Deb Newcomer, for always being there through each and every day.

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

Robert P. Thill Sr.

Robert P. “Bob” Thill Sr. 85 of Dubuque passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at home.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday May 7, 2018 at St Joseph the Worker Church with Rev. Gabriel Anderson officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with full military rites accorded by American Legion Post #6. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday May 6, 2018 at the Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with a parish wake service at 4:00 p.m.

Bob was born on June 13, 1932 in Hanover, IL the son of Hilbert and Dorthea (Lombard) Thill Sr. Bob served in the United States Air Force from 1950 to 1953 during the Korean War. He married Betty Gansemer on April 27, 1963 at St Mary’s Church in Dubuque.

He worked for many years as a ready-mix truck driver for Dubuque Ready Mix and for Molo Ready Mix. He was a member of the Teamsters Local #421. Bob later worked driving Shuttle Vans for Heartland Medical Transport and for several Dubuque care facilities.

Bob enjoyed being outdoors, working in the garden, watching the birds and taking a ride on one of his tractors. He enjoyed doing woodworking, and being Mr. Fixit with baling wire; more of an artist with it.

He is survived by his wife Betty; six children Penny Thill, Robert Thill, Jr., Marty Thill, Kenneth (Rhonda) Thill, Kathy (Chris) Soeder, and Kerry (Rob) Rogers; 22 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; his sister Kay Pink of Monroe, WI, and brother Thomas (Mick) Thill of Baraboo, WI, and his good friends Thomas & Del Rose McGraw, and Dennis & Linda Noel.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Jerry Thill and two brothers Donald and Hilbert Thill Jr.

The family would like to thank Dr. Ron Schope and his nurse Lori, Dr. Michael Ward, Hospice of Dubuque, and especially his granddaughter Tana Thill for all the great care they gave to Bob over the years.

Marilyn Jayne Houtakker

Marilyn “Jayne” Houtakker, 75, of Cuba City, WI, passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at home.

Services will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, May 7, 2018, at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cuba City with Rev. David Flanagan officiating. Burial will be in Holy Ghost Cemetery in Dickeyville. Friends may call from 2-6 p.m. Sunday at St. Rose of Lima Church where the parish and Catholic Daughters of the Americas rosary will be at 1:45 p.m. Friends may also call from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Monday at the church before the service. Casey Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is in charge of arrangements.

Jayne was born on February 1, 1943, to Charles and Geneva (Schmitt) Arlen in Graf, IA, the 3rd of 15 children. She graduated from Senior High School; then was employed at Dubuque Community Schools and John Deere Dubuque Works.

She married the love of her life, Gerald F. Houtakker, on August 22, 1964. They moved onto the family farm in Cuba City where they raised their five children.

Jayne was known for her love of flowers and gardening, dahlias being her favorite. Cinnamon rolls, divinity pie and cherry dessert were the most requested homemade treats from the grandchildren. Spending time with her siblings was important; a highlight was baking sour cream cookies at Christmas with them.

A favorite winter hobby was picking out walnuts and playing Crazy 8 and Rummy with her grandchildren. Together as a couple Jerry and Jayne enjoyed being a part of the same euchre club for over 50 years. Jayne touched many lives through her strong work ethic, caring heart and generosity.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald; children, Tammy (Shane) Marti, David (Joni) Houtakker, both of Cuba City, Tina (Doug) Williams, Mount Horeb, WI, Lisa (Jamie) Kumhala, Oshkosh, WI and Jennifer (Ryan) Downey, Williamsport, MD; grandchildren, Samantha, Kayla, Jessica and Benjamin Marti, Cody and Cheyanne Houtakker, Rachael, Alexander, and Elijah Williams, Katelyn, Joshua and Emma Schuttenhelm, Jay and Brody Kumhala and Jack Downey; siblings, Rosene Moreland, Dubuque, IA, Marlene (Glenn) Stoner, Charlottesville, VA, John (Dana) Arlen, Wilton, IA, Richard (Caroline) Arlen, Boise, ID, Connie (Allan) Connolly and Cindy Bartels, both of Dubuque, IA, Darwin (Becky) Arlen, Hartford, NY, Charles (Julie) Arlen, New Vienna, IA, Denise McNatt, Cary, IL, Christina (Bruce) Dokkebakken, Big Lake, MN, Russell (Karen) Arlen, Dubuque, IA, Audrey Zankle, Woodstock, IL, and Mary Monroe, Davenport, IA; brother-in-law, Bill Ament, Epworth, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Julie Ament; and brothers-in-law, Francis Moreland and Robert Bartels.

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

Prosper Hammerand

Prosper Hammerand, 82, of Sherrill, passed away Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, May 5, at United Methodist Church, Sherrill, with Rev. Emily Blue officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6. Friends may greet the family from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, May 4, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home, 3860 Asbury Rd., Dubuque.

Prosper was born March 1, 1936 in Sherrill, the son of Gilbert and Selma (Hartbecke) Hammerand. He married Karen M. Kupferschmidt on June 15, 1963 at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. She preceded him in death on December 12, 2006. He served in the Army National Guard with the 133rd Infantry, 34th Division for eight years.

Prosper spent his life farming in Sherrill, first on the farm he grew up on, and later with his wife Karen on his own farm. He could fix anything, and made sure his four daughters knew how to change a flat tire. Prosper also worked as a rural letter carrier for 27 years, retiring on March 30, 1996, and was a member of the National Rural Letter Carrier Association.

His faith and church were very important to him, and he was a lifetime member of Sherrill United Methodist Church, where he held many positions, offices, and served as a lay speaker for many years.

Prosper was a devoted husband and father who loved his family and provided for them all his life.

Prosper is survived by four daughters, Connie (Pat) Hennings and Cindy Reding, both of Dubuque, and Julie (Karl) Buerger and Diane (Jeff) Miller, both of Farley; nine grandchildren, Stephanie, Audrey, and Susan Reding, Chelsea (Eric Gleason), Sean, Josh, and Tyler Buerger, and Samantha and Alyssa Miller; three siblings, Virgil (Luella) Hammerand of Sherrill, Phyllis Remakel of Dubuque, and Delight (Delbert) Brimeyer of Dubuque,two siblings-in-law, Lynn and Gary (Mary) Kupferschmidt, both of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers-in-law, Vince Remakel and Edward “Kenny” Kupferschmidt.

Memorials may be made to the Prosper Hammerand Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank everyone who contributed to Prosper’s care over the last few years.

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

Gloria L. Jacobson

Gloria L. “Tootsie” Jacobson, 77, of Dubuque passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at home surrounded by her family.

Family and friends may gather from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque.

Gloria was born on May 31, 1940 in Dubuque the daughter of John H. and Violet (McKeown) Morton.

Gloria loved her family and had a special love for animals. She loved her interior decorating and beautiful things.

She is survived by her daughters, Sue (Mike) Herrick and Kelly (Scott) Miller; sisters, Rita M. Hicks and Marylou Morton; six grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and three special friends, Mary Gordon, Patricia Rodriguez and Shirley Dunne.

Gloria was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Carl “Jake” Jacobson; daughter, Kimberly Kiefer and son Dave Jamison; brothers, James “Jim” Morton and Wayne “Buddy” Morton; and a sister, Darlene Nauman.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care they gave to Gloria especially her nurse Shirley.

Richard D. Paar

Richard D. “Dick” Paar, age 80, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 5:15 p.m., on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, at home, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Dick’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Dick was born on May 27, 1937, the youngest of 11 children, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Victor and Marie (Berg) Paar.

Dick was a proud life-long Dubuquer who naturally developed his character, learned the value of hard work, and understood the concept of love and respect for family and friends all by the time he graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. He was also a very patriotic gentleman who honorable served his county with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, and was a longtime member of the American Legion Dubuque Post #6. Dick was united in marriage to Loretta Weires, on July 29, 1981, in Dubuque, and the two were truly blessed with 36 wonderful years together. Dick would invest almost 40 years of his working career as a lineman with Northwestern Bell and was forever grateful to be able to find a nice balance in life between work, family and fun. In his free-time, Dick enjoyed spending time at the bowling alley perpetually working on his 300 game, chasing that ever elusive hole-in-one under the warm summer sun, or casually moving the pegs around the cribbage board with family and friends. Dick also enjoyed traveling to Florida with Loretta every winter, definitely missing their family during their stays, but gratefully welcoming the opportunity to get away from the cold, snow and ice all while comfortably embracing the warmth of the southern climate. Above all though, Dick loved to be in the company of his family! They absolutely meant the world to him and an hour of playing with the grandchildren and great-grandchildren always brought an extra bright smile to his face. We are deeply saddened today with the new reality we must face without Dick’s physical presence in our daily lives, but we know that he’s in a much better place now and we trust that the memories he leaves behind will bring us some peace until we meet again. Thank you Dick for all of the love, laughs and lessons you shared throughout your 80 years and may your legacy of integrity carry on throughout generations to come. “I loved you every day and I’ll miss you every day!”

Those left to cherish Dick’s memory include

his loving wife,
Loretta Weires Paar, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Angela Walden, Henderson, NV,
Pamela (Phil) Williams, Henderson, NV,
Daniel (Hallie) Paar, Dubuque, IA,
Neal (Debra) Paar, Homassa, FL,
James (Carol) Rowell, Colorado Springs, CO,
Jannell (Gary) Borgstahl, Dubuque, IA,
Michelle (Ric) Schickel, Dubuque, IA
and Amy (Tom) Correll, Dubuque, IA;

his 20 grandchildren;

his 8 great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Arlene Reisen, Dubuque, IA,
Joan (Bill) Herrig, Dubuque, IA,
Bill Paar, Fairfield Bay, AR
and Bob (Sue) Paar, Sylmar, CA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Pat Paar,
Maxine Paar,
June Paar
and Millie Paar.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; 2 grandchildren; his siblings, Art Paar, Donald Paar, Walter Paar, John Paar, Fred Paar and Marion (Leroy) Hefel; a sister-in-law, Marilyn Paar; and a brother-in-law, William “Buzz” Reisen.

Dick’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind, compassionate and professional care of Dick and his family.

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

Veronica E. Gogel

Veronica E. Gogel. 98,of Worthington, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Veronica may call from 4 to 7 p.m., Thursday, May 3, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 3:30 p.m.

A Mass of Christian burial for Veronica will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, May 4, 2018 at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa with Rev. Dennis Quint presiding. Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa.

She was born April 29, 1920 in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Jacob and Catherine (Schultz) Foxen. She received her education in the Holy Cross country schools. On April 29, 1946 she was united in marriage to Thomas Gogel in Holy Cross, Iowa. He preceded her in death on September 1, 1991. The couple farmed together in the Worthington area. She was also a great homemaker.

She loved making quilts, playing cards and doing puzzles.

She was a member of St. Paul’s Parish in Worthington, Iowa, and was also a member of the Parish choir.

She is survived by four children, Virginia (Clem) Henry of Marion, IA, David (Judy) Gogel of Dyersville, IA, Jerry (Mary) Gogel of Bettendorf, IA and Terry (Connie) Gogel of Freeport, IL; 13 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; and 1 great great grandchild; 2 sisters-in-law, Germaine Foxen of Luxemburg, IA and Romilda Westenhofer of Louisville, KY; and a brother-in-law, Andrew “Jack” Gogel of Mariah Hill, IN.

She is also preceded in death by one son, Larry Gogel on August 20, 1951; five brothers, Joe, Louis, Leonard, Emmett and Clarence Foxen and one sister, Lorraine Foxen.

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

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Shady Rest Care Center and the Ellen Kennedy Living Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Allison,

Kathleen M. (Currie) Kiefer

Kathleen M. (Currie) Kiefer, 84, of Asbury, passed away Tuesday, May 1, 2018 at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque.

Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Saturday, May 5, 2018 at Church of the Resurrection. Friends may call from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, May 4, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road, where there will be a parish scripture service at 7:00 pm. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery.

Kathleen was born April 9, 1934, in San Antonio, TX, daughter of Paul W. and Margaret M. (McCall) Currie. Kathleen graduated from Notre Dame Academy in Belleville, IL. She married Edward H. Kiefer, November 26, 1955 at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Belleville.

Kathleen was also known as Kathy by friends, and Katie, Kate, and Kiki by her family. She was also fondly called the “Lege” (short for “Legend”) by her son. She was a volunteer at the Resurrection School Library, enjoyed reading, eating out with the family, attending the grandchildren’s activities, cake decorating, sewing, knitting, working with ceramics, and shopping at Younkers. Kathleen always enjoyed doing sparklers with her family during the 4th of July. She was funny, sweet, and generous. Kathy was a member of Mother’s Club, Classy Red Hatters Club, Catholic Daughters of Americas Court #1287 of Dubuque, and she was a 50 year member of Church of the Resurrection.

Surviving are her husband, Edward H. Kiefer of Asbury; children, Ann (Alan) Kirschbaum of Bloomington, WI, Eddie Kiefer of Eagan, MN, Karen (Frank) Kilcoyne of Lancaster, WI, Cheryl (Tom) Hilby of Cuba City, WI, Janet Kiefer and Mike (Wendy) Kiefer, all of Dubuque; ten grandchildren, Jeremy (Brianna) Kirschbaum, Nathan Kirschbaum, Andy (Charlotte) Kilcoyne, Amanda (Justin) Abing, Alyssa Kilcoyne, Adam Hilby, Katie Hilby, Emily Hilby, Ella Kiefer, and Anthony Kiefer; three great grandchildren Hunter Abing, Haileigh Abing, and Hannah Abing. Kiki is also survived by her two sisters, Barbara Cogan of Port St. Lucie, FL, and Helen (Jim) Mennes of Miami Shores, FL; a brother, Jack Currie of Louisville, KY; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother, Patrick Currie, and a niece, Chrissy Mennes.

Memorials may be made to the family for later donation to Kathleen’s favorite charities.

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