Obituaries Archive

Loras A. Soppe

Loras A. Soppe, 76, of Cascade Iowa, passed away Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at Shady Rest Care Center in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Loras may call from 2 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, April 3, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friends and relatives of Loras may also call after 9 a.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Services for Loras will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 4, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding,with Flag Presentation afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528. Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born September 8, 1941 in Placid, Iowa, son of Reynold Henry and Albertha K. (Kelchen) Soppe. He received his education in the rural Placid area country schools. On January 15, 1966 he was united in marriage to Erma Theisen at Holy Family Catholic Church in Peosta, IA. He was employed with Steger Construction and also owned and operated Sups Repairs.

He was a member of St, Matthias Parish in Cascade, IA. He is an Air Force Veteran, having served from 1959-1962.

He is survived by his wife, Erma Soppe of Cascade, IA; four children, Christina Soppe of West Union, IA, Michael Soppe (& Merill Guarneri) of Calmar, IA, Jacqueline Goedken of Two Harbor, MN, and Jeremy Soppe of Cedar Rapids, IA ; and a daughter-in-law, Carina Soppe of Lamars, IA; 10 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; seven siblings, Louis (Jeri) Soppe of Monticello, IA, Leo (Donna) Soppe of Cascade, IA, Connie (George) Helle of Anamosa, IA, Diane (Al) Nerney of Oxford Junction, IA, Carol Oberbroeckling of Farley, IA, Beverly (Dave) Holz of Dubuque, IA and Deborah (John) Steger of Dyersville, IA; and a sister-in-law, Doris Soppe of Dyersville, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Chris Soppe on June 18, 2016; one brother, Andrew Soppe in 1988; one brother-in-law, Bill Oberbroeckling in 1996.

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

Roger H. Kunde

Roger H. Kunde, 63, of Bernard, IA passed away March 26th, 2018 at Unity Point Finley Hospital.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday March 31st, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Burial will take place at St. Theresa’s Cemetery in La Motte, IA. Visitation will be on Friday, March 30th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, and after 9:00 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home until time of service.

Roger was born on January 3rd, 1955, the son of Harry and Anna (Miller) Kunde in Maquoketa, IA.

Roger was the rock of our family. He did everything he could for all of us. Family meant everything to him. He started Roger’s Auto Salvage in 1981, from there he bought North End Wrecking Inc. in 2001. In 2005 he rekindled his love of farming, and built over 1000 acres. He bought Wenzel Towing in 2012 to keep the Legacy of Jules Wenzel Sr. going, the same year he started Watershed Cafe. He was also a member of the Hawkeye Vintage Machinery Association. He love to work, when one project was done, it wasn’t time to rest, it was time to start another.

He will be forever remembered by his partners Lois and Joan; his children, Scott (Karrie Thole) Kunde, Jodi (Chad Knight) Kunde, Deven Kunde, Nathan (Rachel Miller) Kunde, and Jerad (Liz Theisen) Kunde; grandchildren, Hailey, Lexi Jo, and Parker, who will continue to build his dream. He is also survived by his brothers David (Donna) Kunde, Gary (MaryAnn) Kunde, Steven (Joan) Kunde, Randy (Samantha) Kunde; his sisters MaryAnn (Russ) Wenger, Kathy (Roy) Snook, Alice Jean Kunde, and Amylou (Dale) Barglof.

Preceded in death by his brother Timothy and his parents Harry and Anna Kunde.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established in his name.

The family would like to extend a thank you to Bernard Fire and Rescue Department for their care.

Stephanie C. Deutsch

Stephanie C. Deutsch, 49, of Dubuque passed away Monday, March 26, 2018 at Dubuque Specialty Care.

Friends may greet the family from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Thursday, March 29, 2018 at Hoffmann Schneider Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1640 Main St., Dubuque, where there will be a service at 11 a.m. Deacon Jim Schmidt will officiate. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Stephanie was born September 14, 1968, daughter of Wayne and Ileane (Baumgartner) Deutsch Sr. She received her Master’s Degree in Community Health Counseling from Drake University in Des Moines, and her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Religious Studies from Clarke University, Dubuque. Stephanie was devoted to her career as a counselor, and she enjoyed the opportunity to help others. She loved the great outdoors, and especially loved riding her bike and kayaking. Stephanie enjoyed adventures with her family, and spending time with her grandchildren. She was deeply loved and will be missed.

She is survived by her daughters Heather (Timothy) Ricklefs, of Titonka, IA and Megan (Dennis) Tarasi, of Terre Haute, IN; two grandchildren, Tyson Ricklefs and Michaela Tarasi; her mother Ileane Deutsch, of Dubuque; brothers, Wayne A. (Nadine) Deutsch Jr. and Erich (Jessica) Deutsch, both of Dubuque; and her nieces and nephew, Madelyn, Gwen, and Korbin Deutsch.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; her father Wayne Sr.; and a brother, Michael Deutsch.

Memorials may be made to the National Parks Foundation.

The family would like to thank the staff at Dubuque Specialty Care and Hospice of Dubuque.

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

Paul A. Stevens

Paul A. Stevens, of Dubuque, and formerly of Maquoketa and Cameron, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.

A Natural Journey Farewell with Cremation has taken place. The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Among survivors include his wife, Donna Ward Stevens of Dubuque, IA.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Paul A. Stevens memorial fund has been established.

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

Steven P. Breuer

Steven P. Breuer, 53, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed away on Saturday morning, March 24, 2018, at his home in rural Baldwin, Iowa.

A funeral mass celebrating Steven’s life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, April 7, 2018, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held on Friday, April 6, 2018, from 4 to 7 P.M. at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, where a 6:45 P.M. Scripture Service will be held. Visitation will also be held on Saturday, April 7, 2018, from 9:30 A.M. until service time at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial will be at the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.

Steven Patrick Breuer was born on August 14, 1964 in Waterloo, Iowa, to Wilfred Paul and Marcella (Weber) Breuer. He was a 1983 graduate of Waterloo Columbus High School and then attended Hawkeye Tech and later Sheldon Lineman School in Sheldon, Iowa. He married Debbie Faye Chipman on September 24, 2005 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Steven, who was affectionately known as “Steve”, “Jinx” or “Brew” was a Journeyman Lineman for over 30 years, currently working for M.J. Electric.

He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa. He enjoyed Trout fishing, hunting, riding his Harley, watching old western movies on television and reading old western books. Additionally, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Debbie Breuer of Baldwin, IA; step-children, Tom (Sarah) Spleas of Hales Corners, WI, Christina (Joseph) Holthaus of Greendale, WI, and Nicholas (Mallory) Chipman of Wauwatosa, WI; 5 step-grandchildren, Emily, Ben, Alex, Nicholas and Zach; five brothers, John Breuer of Jesup, IA, Rick (Angie) Breuer of Waterloo, IA, Jim (Lucy) Breuer of Waterloo, IA, Joe (Carolyn) Breuer of West Union, IA, and Pat (Starla) Breuer of Fredonia, KY; nine sisters, Barb (Steve) Schmit of Elkhorn, NE, Bonnie (John) Gorman of San Diego, CA, Nancy Kreger of Raymond, IA, Teresa (Charles) Lauterbach of Pleasant Hill, IA, Frances (Mike) Miller of Robins, IA, Joan (Rick) Budde of Waterloo, IA, Donna Timmer of Waterloo, IA, Carol (Steve) Gleaves of Houston, TX, and Martha Breuer of Poway, CA; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew Dan Breuer.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Steven P. Breuer memorial fund has been established.

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

Cecilia T. Collins

Cecilia T. Collins, 80, of Walford, Iowa, formerly of Dubuque entered eternal life Sunday, March 25, 2018 at Colonial Manor of Amana.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 pm Wednesday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at St. Raphael Cathedral. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Cecilia was born February 18, 1938 in Dickeyville, Wisconsin, daughter of Vincent and Catherine (Kieler) Loeffelholz. In 1964 she married James W. Collins in Dickeyville, Wisconsin. He preceded her in death in October of 2003.

She worked as a cook at Lady of Lourdes for 17 years. She was a Girl Scout leader for four years and loved to quilt and crochet. She only had one daughter; however, she raised several. She helped raise her brothers and sisters at a young age and she babysat for several years. She was loved, and will be missed by, many. She was a member of St. Raphael Cathedral.

She is survived by a daughter, Kelly (Jeffrey) Pottebaum of Walford, Iowa; three granddaughters, Carolyn, Colleen and Catherine Pottebaum; three brothers, Tom (Connie) Loeffelholz and Fidelis (Nancy) Loeffelholz, both of Platteville and Vincent (Sally) Loeffelholz of Cuba City; seven sisters, Bernadette (Don) Williams of Lancaster, Agnes (Norb) Fritz of Lancaster, Felicia Schmitt of Platteville, Imelda (Bob) Hying of Potosi, Madonna (Mick) Whitaker of Potosi, Mary Lou (Harvey) Kruser of Potosi, and Ruth (LaVern) Wiederholt of Cuba City; a brother in law, Don Novotney; sister in law, Mary O’Hara and brother in law, Michael Collins and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Jane Novotney; brother in law, Leo Abing; brother in law, Jack O’Hara and sister in law, Maureen Collins.

In lieu of flowers a Cecilia T. Collins Memorial Fund has been established.

For Further information, please visit www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com

Richard W. Yerke Jr.

Richard W. “Rich” Yerke Jr., age 58, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 8:20 a.m., on Saturday, March 24, 2018, at ManorCare Health Services, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Rich’s life, family and friends may visit from 12:00 noon, until 5:00 p.m., on Thursday, March 29, 2018, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.

Rich was born on June 19, 1959, in Boscobel, WI, son of Richard W. and Betty L. (Zwolanek) Yerke Sr.

Rich was born and raised in Wisconsin and traveled the country before finally settling in the Dubuque area. Rich would happily find love with Marjorie Engling, and the two would blend their families together, becoming united in marriage on August 6, 1983, at Eagle Point Park, going on to enjoy 34 wonderful years together. To say that Rich was a, “Jack of all Trades”, would be an understatement. Throughout the years he would devote his time and talents as a lifeguard, a clam diver, a car salesman and an auto mechanic; there wasn’t anything he was afraid to try. In his free time, Rich could be found playing a relaxing game of cribbage, trout fishing on the river, or simply relaxing in his favorite easy chair watching Matlock, Walker Texas Ranger, or just about any Classic Western known to exist. Sometimes the tv watching would become quite spirited if he was watching his beloved Green Bay Packers take on a worthy opponent. Without a doubt though, the activity Rich looked forward to most was the time he spent camping with his family and friends, surely enjoying the great outdoors while getting to savor a little quality time with his grandchildren. We are deeply saddened at the sudden loss of our dear husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, but thankfully we discover some comfort in the fact that he is now free of all of his health issues that have plagued him these past few years. We are forever grateful for the abundance of memories Rich leaves behind and we will definitely treasure them all until we meet again.

Those left to cherish Rich’s memory include

his loving wife,
Marjorie Yerke, Dubuque, IA;

his 4 children,
Jeremy (Shannon) Engling, Dubuque, IA,
Chad Engling, Asbury, IA,
Tanya Yerke, Dubuque, IA
and Dana (Joe Kress) Yerke, Dubuque, IA;

his 12 grandchildren,
Kelsey Engling, Kaitlyn Engling, Brandon Engling, Amelia Engling, Natalie Engling, Ashlyn Engling, Trevor Boyd, Isaiah Boyd, Elijah Boyd, Ciara Boyd, Leyla Kress, and Ella Kress;

2 great-grandchildren;

and his 6 siblings,
Crystal (Skip) Peters, Ripley, OH,
Tina Yerke, Mineral Point, WI,
Vicky Yerke, Cuba City, WI,
Tana (Al Atkinson) Schallenberger, Beloit, WI,
Lisa Loeffelholz, Shullsburg, WI
and Brian Loeffelholz, Shullsburg, WI.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents; and an uncle, Kenneth Yerke.

In lieu of flowers, a Richard W. “Rich” Yerke Jr. memorial fund has been established, which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Rich’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff of ManorCare for all of the wonderful care they have provided to Rich, and his family.

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

Martin J. Kruse

Martin J. Kruse, 77, of Petersburg died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on March 23rd 2018.

Friends and relatives of Martin may call from 2:00 to 8:00pm, Tuesday, March 27th as well as 9:30-10:30 am on Wednesday, March 28th at the Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, IA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00am Wednesday, March 28, 2018, at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg, IA with Fr. Phil Kruse presiding. Burial will be held in the parish cemetery.

The son of Emil and Hyacinth (Bruggemann), Martin was born July 14, 1940, in Petersburg on the family farm. He attended SS Peter & Paul Catholic School in Petersburg. Following his 8th grade graduation, Martin began a lifetime journey of farming. He married Joann Ries at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sands Springs, on June 11, 1963, and together they farmed and raised their family.

Martin’s true loves were his faith, family, farming, friends and fishing. As a lifelong member of SS Peter and Paul Catholic church, Martin served on numerous church and school boards and could always be found in the front row of the parish auction. He dearly loved his family and shared their passions for agriculture, his grandchildren’s ball games and the family’s Minnesota fishing trips for 40 years. Martin will be remembered most for his passion for farming, wearing pin-striped bib overalls and having a red hankie in his pocket. Martin loved driving red tractors and looking at his black cows. For 59 years, he made it clear to his family that it was his job to plant and combine the crops. He was so proud of the numerous awards he and Joann won throughout the years, especially Master Pork Producer and Distinguished Dairy Family. For 60 years, the highlight of many weekends was playing poker with his forever Petersburg friends.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 55 years, Joann; children: Mike (Lois) Kruse of Petersburg, Karen (John) Olson of West Des Moines, Steve (Dena) Kruse of Petersburg, Kathy (Tom) Neuberger of Davenport, Mark (Rachel) Kruse of Earlville, Sara (Randy) Sievert of De Pere, WI; grandchildren: Mitch, Logan and Kael Kruse of Petersburg, Ben, Sam, Jake and Ellie Olson of West Des Moines, Isabell, Maddy and Aden Kruse of Petersburg, David and Lucy Neuberger of Davenport, Mason Kruse of Earlville and Isaac and Ian Sievert of De Pere, WI; siblings: Sr Bertha Kruse, OSF of Dubuque, Gene (Betty) of Colesburg, Fr. Phil Kruse of Bellevue and Al (Wendy) Kruse of Colesburg; in-laws: Angie Kruse-Oberbroeckling of Dyersville, Charles (Gerry) Ries of Shellsburg, John (Ruth) Ries of Hopkinton, Mary (Ralph) Brown of Edgewood, Frank (Cheryl) Ries of Hopkinton, Kathy (Jerry) Becker of Dyersville, Fred (Sandy) Ries of Central City, Ed (Eileen) Ries of Hopkinton, Janet Thomas of Cascade, Merle (Sue) Ries of Bernard, Marge (Larry) Gaul of Strawberry Point and; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Pat, parents-in-law: Alphonse and Gertrude Ries; in-laws Bill (Elsie) Ries, Wally and Rita (Larry) Ries-Hartung.

The family would like to thank all the special care givers of Helping Hands, Hospice staff of Regional Medical Center and Dr Nicole Salow for the compassionate care he received.

Memorials are preferred to SS Peter and Paul Catholic Church’s restoration fund.

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

Edwin F. Hageman

Edwin F. Hageman, 92 of New Vienna, passed away on Saturday, March 24, 2018, at home.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday, March 26, 2018, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville. The VFW Post 7736 and American Legion Post #137 will have a military service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue Tuesday from 8:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 27, 2018, at St. Boniface Catholic Church, New Vienna, with burial in the church cemetery, military honors will be accorded by the VFW and American Legion. Rev. John O’Connor will officiate.

Ed was born on March 10, 1926, to Otto and Theresa (Recker) Hageman in New Vienna. He married Inez Lechtenberg at St. Francis DeSales in Ossian, IA on October 15, 1955. Ed fought in the Korean War and spent seven months on the front lines in a foxhole during the cold winter months with no change of clothes. Ed was injured during that time and spent 3 months in the hospital. He earned a SWIA, Purple Heart and a Bronze star for his bravery. Ed was a member of the VFW, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), and the American Legion.

Ed is survived by his wife of 62 years, Inez, children: Michael Hageman of New Vienna, Anne (Leon) Meyer of Monona, Greg (Amy) Hageman of the Quad Cities; 6 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild; siblings: Walter (Irene) Hageman of San Diego, CA, Julius (Betty) Hageman and Eileen Hageman both of Dyersville, in-laws: Jim Hesselman of Niwot, Co, Kathleen Hageman of Dubuque, Veronica Hageman of Dyersville, LaVerne Hageman of Forida, and Irenus (Marcia) Lechtenberg of Bloomingdale, IL.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one great-grandchild, Nora Babcock, siblings, Urban Hageman, Delores Bierman, Joseph Hageman, John Hageman, Cindy Hageman, James Hageman, Joan Hesselman and a brother in infancy, Charles, and a brother -in-law, Leon Lechtenberg.

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

John Francis Bamrick, Ph.D.

John Francis “Jack” Bamrick, Ph.D., 91, of Rochester, MN and formerly of Dubuque, peacefully passed from this world on Friday evening, March 23rd, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 28th, 2018 at Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Rev. Msgr. Lyle Wilgenbusch officiating. Visitation is will be from 4:00p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 27th, 2018 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 7:00 p.m. Burial will be on Thursday, March 29 at 11:30 am at Sacred Heart cemetery, Rockwell, Iowa with military honors accorded by the Rockwell American Legion.

John was born in Dougherty, IA on December 15, 1926, to Martin (“Jimmy”) and Bridget (Gallagher) Bamrick. John was one of nine children, born and raised on the family farm (Siblings: Martin, Mary, Joe, Richard, Helen, Rose Ann (Bridget), Marge and Paul). He attended primary education at a one-room schoolhouse, and secondary education at Sacred Heart Academy, Rockwell, IA, graduating in the class of 1945. Following high school, John served in the U.S. Army (1946-’48) and was stationed in Frankfurt Germany, where he decoded encrypted messages. Through the support of the GI Bill, John was able to attend Loras College in Dubuque, IA, and graduated in the class of 1953 with a B.S. (Major in Biology). John received his M.S. from Marquette University, 1955, and a Ph.D. (Zoology) from Iowa State University in1960.

John married his true love, Eunice Ermer, on Dec 29th, 1956, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Rockwell, IA.

John’s career at Loras College (his 2nd true love) began in 1956, when he joined the Faculty in the Biology Department. Early in his career, John enjoyed summer research and educational opportunities at Iowa State, Ohio State, Oregon State and Colorado State Universities, and, later in his career, a sabbatical at Iowa State (where he was sure to take in a Cyclone athletic event or two). John was an enthusiastic supporter of Loras College athletics- go DuHawks! While working at Loras, he served on a committee to support a coeducational campus, which became a reality in the Fall of 1971. John inspired countless students to go onto careers in medicine and research.

John loved Loras students and his fellow faculty members. He frequently enjoyed a round of golf at Lacoma, travels abroad, and most especially, visits to his ancestral home of Ireland with his wife and daughters. He was a loyal fan of the Chicago Cubs, Green Bay Packers and Iowa State Cyclones. He tipped a cold beverage at the DuHawk Den, and enjoyed a good Manhattan at the Moracco on Friday evenings.

John is survived by Eunice, his wife of 61 years, and his children: Margaret (Brad) Yocum, Jane Hein, and Tom (Deb) Bamrick. John was adored by his 6 grandchildren: Timothy (Maddi), Stephen (Alejandra), Marlee (Will), Wyatt, John and Elyse. John’s siblings, their spouses, and in-laws will miss him dearly.

A memorial in John’s name is set up at Loras College to support scholarships for female students pursuing a degree in Science.

A heartfelt “Thank You!” goes out to the staff of Seasons Hospice, Rochester, MN, the nursing staff at Shorewood Commons Assisted Living, and to Dr. Juan Bowen (Mayo Clinic) for supporting and guiding us through the final chapter of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather’s life.

Charles Pierce

Charles “Chuck” Pierce, 78, of Cascade Iowa, passed away, Thursday, March 22, 2018 at his home in Cascade, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Chuck may call from 2 to 7 p.m., Sunday, March 25, 2018 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a wake service will be held at 1:30 p.m. and a KC Rosary will be held at 7:00 p.m. Friends and relatives may also call after 9 a.m., Monday, March 26th at the Funeral Home.

Services for Chuck will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, March 26, 2018 at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Douglas Loecke Presiding. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

He was born March 9, 1940 in Temple Hill, Iowa, son of Charles and Ruth (Ball) Pierce. He received his education in the Temple Hill area schools. On June 20, 1970 he was united in marriage to Geraldine Lewis in Cascade, Iowa. She preceded him in death on May 3, 2013.

Chuck farmed his entire life in the Temple Hill area. He enjoyed going to tractor pulls and visiting with family and friends. He truly enjoyed his time spent with the grandchildren and the traditional family get togethers, he took extra efforts to make sure everyone was at the Christmas eve get together.

He was a member of St. Matthias Parish in Cascade and the Cascade Knights of Columbus-Council #930.

He is survived by one brother, Chancy (Roberta) Pierce of Montana; one sister, Mary (Herb) Heim of Dyersville, IA; two step sons, Donnie (Rosie) Topping of Onslow, IA and Denny (Rose) Topping of Dubuque, IA; one daughter-in-law, Joanie Topping of Cascade, IA; 11 grandchildren; 2 step grandchildren; and 30 great grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; two brothers-in-law, Kenny Lewis and Terry (Linda) Lewis both of Monticello, IA, 1 sister-in-law, Donna (Steve) Koob of Monticello, IA.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one step-son, Thomas Topping; 4 brothers in law, Ron Egger, Carl Gudenkauf, Carl Merfeld and Maynard Lewis; and 3 sisters-in-law, Mary Gudenkauf, Peggy Merfeld and JoAnn Egger.

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

Wallace E. Soenksen

Wallace E. “Wally” Soenksen, 85, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, March 22, 2018, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Friends and family may gather for One Last Party® celebrating “Wally’s” life from Noon to 2 P.M. on Sunday, March 25, 2018 in “The Bistro” at Carson Celebration of Life Center. A private burial will be held from the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

Wallace Eugene Soenksen was born on October 8, 1932 in Elwood, Iowa, to Eugene and Berniece (Hamilton) Soenksen. He grew up in Elwood and attended Elwood schools through the 8th grade. He married Thelma I. Slaughter on May 12, 1956 in Clinton, Iowa. She preceded him in death on July 31, 1988.

“Wally” first worked as a farmhand to families around the Elwood area. He then began helping Blaine Bock with the wrecker service at Dude’s 66 and later Bock’s Texaco. When Blaine and Mary started farming in 1972, Wally became their right hand man and has been a part of their family ever since.

“Wally” was a member of the Buckhorn Community Club. He enjoyed fishing, going to the casino boats, having a good card game at McDonald’s, and his morning coffee group at River Village. He especially enjoyed his “road trips” with his special friend Larry Fuller.

Those left to honor his memory include a brother, Harvey Soenksen of Maquoketa, IA; a special friend Barb Graves of Maquoketa, IA; and his adopted family, Blaine and Mary Bock of Maquoketa, IA, Michele and Kevin Foley and their children Devon and Ryan of Boston, MA, and Marisa and Matt Hefner and their children Jack and Jace of Cedar Rapids, IA. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, sisters Beulah and Lulumay, and 1 infant brother.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Wallace E. “Wally” Soenksen memorial fund has been established.

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

Doris M. Pitz

Doris M Pitz, 86 of 2700 Matthew John Drive, formerly of 1320 Cummins Street, passed away on Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Iowa City. Services will be held at 10:30 am Monday, March 26, 2018 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call from 3:00-7:00 pm Sunday at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Westview Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road where there will be a wake service at 6:30 pm.

Doris was born on June 9, 1931 in Sherrill, Iowa, daughter of Charles and Josephine (Nauman) Anthony. In growing up and working on the family farm, she knew a better life was awaiting her and took a taxi-cab from Sherrill to Dubuque where she began employment at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co . It was there that she met and married the love of her life, Walter Pitz on Thanksgiving Day, November 22, 1956 at SS Peter & Paul Parish in Sherrill, Iowa. Throughout her life, she worked as a bartender (where she developed her sharp wit), Loras College and Jocille’s Fashion Corner. She was very generous with her time and helping others. Volunteering and giving back to the community was extremely important to her. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Nativity bingo and parish festivals, and countless charitable organizations and events. She was a member of the Church of the Nativity in which she was very involved.

Doris was a wonderful and abundant cook. The door was always open and an extra plate set at the table. She loved to entertain and share stories, but most of all she loved time spent with her family. She enjoyed playing euchre several times a week with her friends at Eagle Pointe Place, was a huge Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed country & western music which she would play all hours of the day. She loved attention and we loved to shower her with it.

She is survived by her husband Walter “Wally” Pitz and daughter Michelle (Jay) Johanningmeier both of Dubuque, IA; sisters-in law Geri Anthony of Dubuque, IA; Jane Anthony of Dyersville, IA; Mary Jane Anthony of Holy Cross, IA and Carol Anthony of Kieler, WI; brother-in-law Dorrance Pitz of Dubuque, IA; extended family members Kris Latham and Mark Johanningmeier both of Dubuque, IA and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Marla in 1986, her parents, brothers Wilfred, Herbert, Jack (Doris), Melvin, Charles, James, and Merlin, sister-in-law Loretta Pitz and brother-in-law Ronald Pitz.

A Doris Pitz memorial fund has been established.

Rev. Dr. Ralph W. Quere

Rev. Dr. Ralph W. Quere, 82, of Dubuque died Thursday, March 22, 2018. Funeral services will be 3 p.m. Sunday at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road where visitation will be Sunday from 1 p.m. until time of service. Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery, St. Donatus.

Ralph was born to Walter and Helen (Czar netski) Quere on Sept. 26, 1935 in Cleveland, Ohio, joining sisters Arline and Joyce. He graduated from John Marshall High School and received a NROTC scholarship to Princeton where he graduated in 1957 with a degree in history. He married Janice Meeter where Ralph served his Navy years. In 1960, Ralph entered Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio.

Ralph and Janice were parents to 6 children, John, David, Cynthia, Paul, James, and Jennifer. The first three preceded him in passing along with Janice. After graduation in 1964, the family moved to New Jersey where Ralph began doctoral studies in historical theology at Princeton Seminary and Jan tutored math. They left Princeton in their Volkswagen Bug in 1967 for Dubuque for a teaching position at Wartburg Seminary and parish ministry at St. John’s in St. Donatus and St. Paul’s in LaMotte. Ralph received his doctorate in 1970.

The children attended Hempstead High School where Jan taught math. They attended Concordia, Luther and Wartburg colleges during the 1980’s. Janice was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2003, at which time Ralph retired from his full-time teaching at his beloved Wartburg Seminary. Janice died in 2008. Ralph continued to contribute to Wartburg Seminary through emeritus teaching and also was active in the Lutheran Church, and especially St. Peter of Dubuque.

Any memorials may be sent to Wartburg Seminary or St. Peter Lutheran in Dubuque.

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

Kathy M. Hefel

Kathy Mae Hefel, 61, of East Dubuque, IL passed away surrounded by her family Wednesday, March 21, 2018 at Unity Point – Finley Hospital.

Funeral service for Kathy will be at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 26, 2018 Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Family and friends may visit on Sunday, March 25, 2018 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory.

Kathy was born July 29, 1956 in Dubuque to James “Jiggs” and Beverly (Wenzel) Maus. She married the love of her life Dan Hefel on September 28, 1973 at Holy Ghost.

They were blessed with 44 years of marriage.

Kathy was a unit secretary at Mercy Medical Center in Dubuque for 38 years.

She enjoyed time with her family, grandkids, and time at the track. She will be remembered for her laugh, quick wit and her Bloody Mary’s. Kathy was a true friend to many.

She is survived by her husband Dan; her devoted children Jolene (Jason) Timmerman, Nicole Hefel, Danielle (Mike) McGurn, and Brian Hefel and special granddaughter, Samantha Fries. Grandchildren, Austin and Tyler Timmerman, Kristin, Abigail and Sophia Fries, Annika Hefel and Peityn McGurn. Siblings, Mike Maus, Luann (Steve) Hurst, Peggy (Mark) Bagstad, and Billy (Angie) Maus. Her in-laws Richard (Mary Ann) Hefel, Donna (Vern) Husemann, Marvin Hefel, Eldon (Janet) Hefel, Laurinda Hefel OSF, Delaine (Joe) Gartner, Doris (Terry) Gartner, Russ (Chris) Hefel, Debbie (Richard) Folk and many nieces and nephews.

Kathy is preceded in death by her parents, mother and father-in-law Harold and Lorraine Hefel, sister Debbie Brown, and in-laws Dixie and Jerry Rapp, Eileen Hefel, and Hal and Judy Hefel.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

A very special thank you to her medical team Dr. Kirkendall, Dr. Schope, and Dr. Khan.