Obituaries Archive

John K. Kane

John Kieran Kane, 82, of Cascade, Iowa, and formerly of Fillmore, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at his home in Cascade.

Visitation for John will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa.

Mass of Christian Burial for John will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding. Burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

John was born on September 13, 1941, in Monticello, Iowa, son of Thomas Frank and Zita Irene (Dolphin) Kane. He received his education from St. Martin’s Catholic School in Cascade, and St. Peter’s Catholic School in Temple Hill.  John graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School, Dubuque, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Patty Conrad on November 4, 1967, at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa.

He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company, farmed, and at Mercy Hospital in the Environment Services Department.  John enjoyed farming, case tractors, trips to the casino, and golfing.  He was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

John was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.  He was a United States Army Veteran having served in Korea.  John was a member of the Cascade American Legion Post #528.

He is survived by his wife, Patty Kane of Cascade; four children, Michael (Karmen) Kane, of Anamosa, Mark (Amy) Kane, Nancy (Jeremy) Davis, both of Cedar Rapids and Matt (Melissa) Kane, of Dyersville; seven grandchildren: Dylan, Kyle (Callie), Emily, Ella, Grace, Ben and Troy; one great grandchild, Salem Kane; brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert (Ramona) Conrad, Mark McAllister, Jean Conrad, and Ron Benke; many nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, M. Sheila (James) Finn; father and mother-in-law, Robert and Eileen Conrad; two sisters-in-law, Linda Benke and Mary Sue McAllister; and one brother-in-law, Gerry Conrad.

Tribute video may be viewed, and online condolence may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Arlene R. McCutcheon

Arlene Rose McCutcheon, a cherished mother, sister, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, at the age of 92, Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa, Iowa. Born on October 12, 1931, in Canton, Iowa, Arlene was the daughter of Floyd Leslie and Freda Gertrude (Carr) DeMoss.

Arlene’s life was one marked by dedication and warmth, beginning with her education at Maquoketa High School, where she graduated in 1950.  She married Reese W. Todhunter in 1951, with whom she had two children, Debi and Denny. After their divorce, she found love again and married Harold P. “Cutch” McCutcheon on May 28, 1960, and together they welcomed a son, Nicholas.

Throughout her life, Arlene held various positions that showcased her versatility and work ethic. She worked as a waitress and bartender, took on roles at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and farmed alongside her husband “Cutch” on the Iron Bridge Road. However, it was her role as a jewelry salesperson for Sarah Coventry Jewelry that highlighted her natural flair for sales and management, eventually leading her to become an area branch manager. In her later years, Arlene continued to engage with the community as a cashier/greeter at WALMART in Maquoketa and Dubuque, and finally, as a car salesperson for Brad Deery Motors in Maquoketa.

Arlene’s zest for life extended beyond her professional endeavors. She was an avid card player, known for her competitive spirit in Euchre Tournaments. Her generosity of spirit was evident in her commitment to helping others and the joy she brought to residents during her visits to area nursing homes.

Those left to honor Arlene’s memory include her loving children, Debi (Kenneth) Shady-Dahl of Colona, IL, Denny (Sandy) Todhunter of Paradise, CA, and Nick (Dee) McCutcheon of Maquoketa, IA. Her legacy continues through her sister, Dora Foster of Spanaway, WA, her 8 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom will miss her deeply. Arlene was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Keith, Stuart, Robert, and Rex DeMoss, and her sister Mary Lou Carlson.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Mary Lou V. Bradley

MaryLou V. Bradley, 87, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on August 27, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves behind a rich legacy of devotion, love, and service to her community.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 2, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the funeral home, with an additional visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.

MaryLou was born on May 18, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of John and Violet (Dohse) Schubert. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1955. On March 30, 1957, she married Richard M. Bradley at Immanuel Congregational Church in Dubuque. MaryLou dedicated 24 years to driving a school bus for the Dubuque Community School District and was a passionate homemaker. In her retirement, she enjoyed working at the Brownstone Art Gallery.

Known affectionately as “Grandma Lou,” MaryLou was a devoted matriarch whose passion for gardening transformed her yard into vibrant landscapes of flowers. She was a member of the Master Gardeners Club, Dubuque Senior Rams Booster Club, and a dedicated volunteer for the Dubuque County Fair’s Creative Arts division. In 2011, she was honored with induction into the Iowa Master Farm Homemaker’s Hall of Fame by Wallace Farmer.

MaryLou’s commitment to her community was evident through her service at Rockdale United Methodist Church, where she served as treasurer and organized various events such as an annual cookie walk, soup supper and auction. Her baking talents, especially her cookies, cinnamon rolls, and candies, brought joy to many during the Christmas season. Additionally, she was known for her craftsmanship in ceramics, quilting, and sewing, often sharing her creations with loved ones.

MaryLou will be deeply missed by her husband, Richard M. Bradley; children Dennis (Tina) Bradley, Cheryl (Tim) Martens, and Joe (Julie) Bradley; daughter-in-law Margie (Zip Gassman) Bradley; twelve grandchildren Emily (Jim) Davis, Eric (Emily) Martens, Rachel (Ryan) Kieffer, Alex (Kate) Martens, Jarred (Hollie) Bradley, Bridget (Ted) Anders, Leah (Brad) Timmerman, Rebecca Bradley, Benjamin Bradley (Hallie Little), Luke Bradley, Stephen Bradley, and Larissa Bradley; and fourteen great-grandchildren, with two more on the way; and her siblings Shirley Bahl, Elda (Tom) Kuehn, and Sandy (Tim) Fiedler.

She was preceded in death by her son, Steve Bradley; her parents; her parents-in-laws, Melvin and Mary “Hazel” Bradley; siblings and in-laws John “Jack” Schubert, Allen (Patricia “Jean”) Schubert, David Bahl, Kenny Droullard, Merlin (Dorothy) Bradley, and cherished nephews Ronnie Bradley and Brian Bradley.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in MaryLou’s name to Key West EMS or an organization of your choice.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and Key West Fire & EMS for their compassionate care.

Joyce A. McDowell

Joyce A. McDowell, age 79, of Manchester, IA, completed her earthly journey peacefully on August 27, 2024, at the Edgewood Convalescent Home, with her loving family holding her hands.  To honor Joyce’s life, a private family graveside service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joyce’s family.

Joyce was born on March 29, 1945, in Latrobe, PA, a daughter to William E. and Vera M. (Billhorn) Uptegraph.  In her younger years, the family made their way to the Manchester area.  She was united in marriage to her husband, Raymond H. McDowell, on November 19, 1961.  They were blessed with 60 years together before he was sadly called home ahead of her in 2021.

Over the years, Joyce worked in the health care field, food service industry, and also invested her time cleaning both homes and offices in the area.  Her greatest joy though was often found in her years in the private home healthcare she provided.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Joyce include,

her children,
Shelley Gorsh,
Dan (Chris) McDowell,
Brian (Pauline Schaffner) McDowell,
Gary (Pam) McDowell,
Amy (Mike) Shipley,
and Meri Helmrichs;

her 17 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ray; her mother and father-in-law, Harry and Ida (Johnston) McDowell; and her grandson, Dylan.

Joyce’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Edgewood Convalescent Home and St. Croix Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care.

Online condolences may be shared with Joyce’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Robert P.A. Hoy

Robert P. A. Hoy, 82, of Dubuque passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024.  Visitation is at 12 pm Thursday, August 29 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a funeral service at 1:30 pm. A livestream of the funeral can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com. Burial will be in Rock Island National Cemetery.

Robert was born January 8, 1942 in Chicago, son of Paul A. and Edith (Pue) Hoy. Robert married Riese Zimmerman in 1970, in Oak Park, IL.

Robert worked at CCH in Chicago before moving to Dubuque IA in 1987 to work at Emmaus Bible College. He also worked at Dubuque Data Services and was self-employed providing data services until he retired in 2021.

Robert was in the US Air Force from 1964-1968, where he studied Mandarin Chinese at Yale and led aerial reconnaissance flights over Vietnam and other conflict zones, involved in live fire combat.

Robert was always involved in the church and a strong Christian. For years he was an elder at Arbor Oaks Bible Chapel. He loved to play the piano for the church as well as at home.

Robert is survived by his wife Riese, children Julie, Jeremy (Cathy), and Kim (Nicholas), grandchildren Paisley and Violet, brothers Don and Dave (Lynette) and nieces Colleen (Nicko) and Kerry (Kris).

He will be dearly missed.

James F. Reuss

James F. “Jim” Reuss, 85, of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.  Funeral Service will be 11:30 am, Friday, August 30, 2024 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 9:00 am until services at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service.  Graveside Services will be at 2:00 pm in St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery in Otter Creek.

 Jim was born August 22, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Wilbert and Mildred (Klasnja) Reuss.  He married Rita Kueter on January 20, 1972 and lived in Bellevue for the last 52 years.  Jim worked for the Railroad, Natural Gas Company, John Deere Works Dubuque, Bob’s Service, and then for Rockwell Collins for 25 years before retiring.  He loved to fish, hunt, woodworking, and most of all his family.

Survivors include his wife, Rita; children, Paul (Mary) Reuss, Becky (Ed) Syrovy, Julie Harford, and Michael Kilburg; a son in-law, Keith Hoffman; a sister, Joan (Ken) Houle; sisters and brothers in-law, Jim (Lisa) Kueter, Jr., Mitz Kueter, Ruth (Duane) Tietjen, Nita (Mike) Kaiser, Lorin Kueter, Donna (Len) Timmerman, Joyce (Dennis) Kloft, Doug (Roxey) Kueter, Sharon (Tim) Bayer, Alan (Monica) Kueter, Annette (Duane) Sullivan, Mary (Glen) Hobart, Tina (Ridge) Willard, and Jean (Angie) Kueter-Almas; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended relatives.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; children, Jon Reuss, Rachel Hoffman; grandson Mathew; a sister, Jean Reuss; brothers, George and Tom Reuss; sister and brother in-law, Linda (Bob) Miller; and numerous aunts and uncles.

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

Rita would like to thank the staff at Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque for all the care and love they have shown to Jim and his family.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.hachmannfuneralhome.com

Mildred A. Schemmel

Mildred A. “Millie” Schemmel, 89, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Millie will be at 10:00 am on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Grand View United Methodist Church with Rev. Thomas C. Shinkle officiating. Burial will be at the Asbury Cemetery.

Millie was born on August 25, 1935, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Lester and Evelyn (Leik) Sahm. She was united in marriage to Melvin Launspach on July 14, 1951, he preceded her in death on September 11, 1970. She then married Wayne Schemmel on September 18, 1971, he preceded her in death on June 28, 2016.

Millie was a hard working farm wife and was so proud of continuing the family Heritage Farm since 1911. She had a deep love for all animals, including her pet dogs, cats, and canaries. Also always made sure the deer, birds, and hummingbirds were taken care of as well. Millie loved doing crossword puzzles, word searches, and watching game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune, while having “lupper” and her “special drink”. Above all, she made sure her family was well fed and taken care of, she was a very selfless and giving person.

Survivors include her eight children, Dan (Karen) Launspach of Dubuque; Cindy (Bob) Schemmel of Dubuque; Sherry (Dave) Brehm of Durango, IA; Steve (Deb Roloff) Schemmel of Sherrill, IA; Jeff “Doc” (Jennifer) Schemmel of Dubuque; Shelly (Kurt) Thumser of Hazel Green, WI; Dave Launspach of Dubuque; and Mark (Becky) Schemmel of Asbury; 17 grandchildren; and 27 great-grandchildren.

Millie was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; and one infant daughter.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hawkeye Care Center and her caregiver, Misty, for all of their loving care.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Millie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

John L. Frutig

John L. Frutig, age 94, of Elizabeth, IL, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024, at Midwest Galena Stauss Senior Care. The family will honor his life with a private celebration.

John was born on June 17, 1930, in Monroe, WI, a son to Hans and Lina (Weibel) Frutig. He proudly served in the U.S. Army.  John owned the Elizabeth Recreation Center, worked for the US Postal Service, the Rural Electric Association, and did painting. The majority of his career was spent with the Savanna Army Depot, serving as a firefighter and the Fire Chief, retiring in 1988 with 30 years of service. He was a dedicated volunteer fireman and Fire Chief with the Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Department. Following retirement, he worked part-time at the Elizabeth Food Center.

He was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and loved to go fishing with family and friends. 

John is survived by his wife Ruth Frutig, Elizabeth, IL; his two children, Marsha Huttenlocher, Galena, IL, and Mark Frutig, Roscoe, IL; his two grandsons, Bryan (Brooke) Huttenlocher, Galena, IL, and Brandon Huttenlocher, Basalt, CO; and his two great-grandsons, Bryce and Brady Huttenlocher.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his son-in-law, Jerry Huttenlocher. 

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Midwest Galena Stauss Senior Care for their professional and compassionate care.

Memorials will be donated in John’s name to the Elizabeth Fire Department.

The Tri-State Cremation Center is assisting John’s family.

Online condolences may be shared at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Connie Rohr

Connie Rohr, 85, of Cascade, formerly of Clermont, FL, died Monday, August 26, 2024, at her home in Cascade.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Friday, August 30, 2024 at St. Anthony Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Connie will be at 10:30 am on Friday, August 30, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant and Father Mark Osterhaus as the homilist. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Connie was born on December 25, 1938, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Roland and Mary (Klecker) Rutledge. On June 22, 1957, she married Earl Louis Rohr Jr. in Dubuque.

Connie attended The Visitation followed by Dubuque Senior High School  for her senior year, graduating in 1957. She worked as a cosmetologist from 1967-1971 and later within the Dubuque Community Schools for 25 years as a Nursing Assistant then as Activities Secretary at Hempstead High School.

Connie was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. As a young girl, she achieved highest honor in Girl Scouts, The Curved Bar and later in life, she was the treasurer for the Women’s Recreation Association.

Connie and Earl loved traveling together, in particular to the Caribbean Islands. She also enjoyed square dancing, reading, playing the slot machines, and spending time with friends dining and taking cruises. Most of all, Connie was happiest when spending time with family.

Survivors include her husband of 67 years, Earl of Cascade; three children, Rick Rohr of Little Suamico, WI; Randy (Amy) Rohr of Iowa Falls, IA; and Debra (Bill Trumm) Rohr of Cascade; six grandchildren, Brian Droullard, Jake Spiegelhalter, Rita (Dylan) Rieber, Sarah Rohr, Forest (Alicia) Rohr, and Colton Rohr; two great-grandsons, Jackson and Rory Rieber; two brothers, Gary (Lori) Rutledge of Seattle, WA; and Paul (Lynn) Rutledge of St. Louis, MO.

Connie was preceded in death by her parents and one brother, David Rutledge.

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

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque and Fr. Mark Osterhaus for their care and compassion.

Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Connie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Sonja S. Arensdorf

Sonja Sue Arensdorf, 80 of Key West passed away on Monday, August 26, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. Friday, at Saint Joseph Key West with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. The visitation will be from 3:00 p.m.  to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, August 29, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service at 2:45.

She was born in Colorado on January 25, 1944, the daughter of Robert and Evelyn (Maus) Schweikert. Her family later moved back to Dubuque. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1963 and later from the University of Dubuque. On April 18, 1964, she married Martin Arensdorf at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church.  She worked for several Dubuque businesses including Sears, Pusateri Restaurant, Finley Hospital, Carlisle Communication, and Shepherd Inc.

Sonja was an avid Dubuque Saints Hockey supporter and was a former housing mom. She also enjoyed watching golf and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. Reading, crossword puzzles, bingo, music and playing euchre were also among her favorite things to do, and she was known to skip a doctor appointment if “Happy Hour” got in the way.

She is survived by her husband Marty; children Tami Hill, Amy (Jerry) Turner, Brett Arensdorf, and Drew Arensdorf. Her grandchildren Ryan (Megan Kunnert) Hill, Tyler (Nick) Jones and Holly (Doug Clancy) Hill, and 5 great grandchildren. She is also survived by a brother Tom (Jan) Schweikert, along with her in-laws Mary Jo (Jim) Gothard, Alice (Jon) Davis, Ruth (Steve) Arlen, Dan (LouAnn) Arensdorf, Nancy (Dean) Herbst, Neil (Tammy Prescott) Arensdorf and many nieces and nephews.

Sonja was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Cindy Eudaley, a daughter-in-law Pam Arensdorf, her mother and father-in-law Leo and Joan Arensdorf, and brother and sister-in-law Leonard (Donna) Arensdorf along with Larry, Sam and Jimmy Arensdorf.

In lieu of flowers a Sonja Arensdorf memorial fund has been established.

A special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care along with Medical Associates and Dr. Amy Winsky and Hospice of Dubuque especially Kelly for all the wonderful care and kindness they gave to Sonja.

Alexis M. Johll

Alexis Marie Johll, 19, of Dubuque passed away on Friday, August 23, 2024. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque. A time of remembrance will be held at 7:00 p.m.

Alexis was born on December 7, 2004, the daughter of Steven M. Johll and Amber L. Wentz. She Graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School, Class of 2024.

Alexis enjoyed spending time with family, friends and all of her animals. She was an animal lover at heart and will be missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her parents, her sister; Katie Oswald of Lake Pleasant, Arizona, her brother; Silas of Dubuque, IA, her maternal grandparents; Kenneth (Renae) Wentz of Platteville, WI, and Michelle (Rick) Doles of Dubuque, IA, her maternal great-grandmother, Carol Wentz, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Alexis was preceded in death by her sister Annayah, her cousin Kelsey, paternal grandparents and her aunt Amy.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established along with a GoFundMe in Alexis’ name.

Jose Perez

Jose “Joe” Perez, 83, of Victorville, CA died Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Desert Valley Hospital in Victorville.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until 11:00 am Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Celebration of Life Service for Jose will be at 11:00 am Saturday, September 14, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Jose was born July 16, 1941, in Havana, Cuba, the son of Jose Perez and Elina Francisco. On August 29, 1987, he married Patricia “Pat” Wernimont in Dubuque.

He had a thirst for knowledge.   Joe held many degrees, including a PHD in Metaphysical Counseling, and was a certified hypnotherapist.  In addition, he held technical degrees and spent the majority of his life working in Computer Technology and Consulting.

Joe enjoyed trap shooting, traveling and road trips.  He held a private pilot’s license and loved flying.  One of his favorite pastimes was spending time with his grandchildren in the hot tub, as they listened to “Papa” stories. Joe was also a hospice volunteer for over 25 years, providing comfort and compassion to so many.  One of his favorite quotes: “I cannot give all the help the world needs, but the world needs all the help I can give.”

He is survived by a loving family: his wife, Pat of Victorville, CA, two daughters, Monica (Steve) Barron of Sherman Oaks, CA, and Marisa (Mike) Dritlein of Peoria, AZ, five grandchildren, Logan, Hudson, and Grayson Barron, Solana Royston and Reid Dritlein.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Eduardo.

Joe will be remembered and acknowledged as a hardworking, loving husband, father, grandfather, unselfish friend, and an esteemed colleague.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to St. Jude’s or the local Hospice.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences sent to the family by visiting Joe’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Richard D. Walker Sr.

Richard D. “Dick” Walker Sr., 85, of Bettendorf, and formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa¸ passed away peacefully on Saturday evening, August 24, 2024, at the Clarissa C. Cook Hospice House in Bettendorf.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Friday, August 30, 2024, at First Lutheran Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:30 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the church.Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Richard David Walker Sr. was born on April 26, 1939 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to David Calvin and Eulane Lillian (Flagel) Walker.  He grew up in Maquoketa and was a proud graduate of Maquoketa High School, class of 1957. His early life set the stage for a journey filled with love, laughter, and music. He first married Judy Whitmore, and they were blessed with two children, Richard Jr. and Lori. After their divorce, he married Nancy Henton, with whom he had his son, Matthew. The chapters of his life brought him to February 4, 1994, when he married Denyse Louise Dodds in Moline, Illinois. Dick and Denyse shared over three decades of marriage and made their home in Bettendorf since 1995.

Dick’s professional life was as diverse as it was fulfilling. He spent many years as an over-the-road truck driver, a job that took him across the country and back. He then shifted gears and worked as a car salesman for Lujack’s Auto in Davenport for five years.  During his marriage to Nancy, he co-owned and operated the Lakehurst Supper Club in Maquoketa with Glen “Red” and Bernice Henton.  There, he showcased his talents as a drummer and lead singer in the family band.  Dick eventually found his calling as the CDL Truck Driving Program Coordinator at Scott Community College in Davenport, from which he retired in 2013.

Margaret C. Hosier

Margaret C. Hosier, 95, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on Sunday, August 25, 2024.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 29th, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church. Her Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. with Fr. Jeff Friden officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

She was born on January 21, 1929, the daughter of James and Mildred (Berryman) Horan. She grew up in Scales Mound, IL on the family farm and attended grade school there. She later graduated from Saint Clara Academy in Sinsinawa, WI, and finally attended Bayless Business College in Dubuque for two years.

She married John Hosier on February 5, 1948, and together they shared almost 70 years together until his passing on July 2, 2017. She began her working career at the former Dubuque Packing Co., later working in sales at Montgomery Ward and Sears until her retirement in 1986. After retiring she helped with tax preparation at One Stop Tax Service into her 90’s.

She was a great caregiver and was devoted to her family and friends. She also loved gardening and being around horses.

Margaret is survived by six children, Jim (Donna) Hosier, Mike (Paula) Hosier, Tim Hosier, Kathy (Mark) Corcoran, Mary (Paul) Meus, and Diane (Aaron) Lincoln. Nineteen grandchildren, three step grandchildren, and twenty-four great grandchildren; her three sisters Mary Green, Barb (Fritz) Haag, and Kate (Terry) Lowe, along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband a son Patrick, two grandchildren Hailey Lincoln and Nathan Corcoran, and a sister Lois McIntosh

The family wishes to thank her caregivers Thelma & Ray Breitsprecker and Shiloh Bennett along with the staff of Eagle Point Place and Hospice of Dubuque, for all the wonderful care.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of Dubuque.

Merlin T. Steffen

Merlin T. Steffen, 77, of Peosta, Iowa, formerly of Holy Cross, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 23, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 27th, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a prayer service at 3:30 p.m. The Funeral Mass will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, August 28th, at Holy Family New Melleray, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with military honors by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Born on February 6, 1947, in Dyersville, Iowa, Merlin was the son of Arnold and Catherine (Brunkan) Steffen. He married Karen Mueller on September 24, 1971. Merlin was a proud member of the Iowa National Guard. Following his service, he took over the family farm with his wife, Karen, and together they raised four wonderful children.  He farmed the land for 47 years then continued to work in construction for 20 years until retirement.

Merlin was known for his hard work and dedication, but his greatest joy came from spending time with his family. He loved playing cards, dominoes, and side-by-side outings, and enjoyed gathering for family dinners. Merlin cherished his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, often taking them fishing and spending time in his garden.  One of his greatest passions were his dairy cows, from finding him in the show barns to being an active member of various organizations. He enjoyed going to auctions, tinkering in his shed, building and fixing things, and he took great pleasure in putting up Christmas lights. Merlin loved his sweet treats and was always sharing mints with his family.

He was deeply devoted to his wife, Karen, with whom he would have celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary this September. Merlin is survived by his wife, Karen; their children Sheila, Tony (Heather), Nicole (Joe), and Valene (Shane); six grandchildren—Tyler (Rachel), Brittany, Casey, Riley, Gavin, and Olivia; two great-grandchildren, Lydia and Cora; and bonus family Katelyn (Matt, Allie, Cassie, Bradley) and neighbor Vince. He is also survived by his sister, JoAnn; his brothers- and sisters-in-law Jeanette, Nick, Dave (Dawn), and Elly, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Roger; his father and mother-in-law, LeRoy and Dorothy; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law Judy, Jim, Joan, Don, Artie, and Eugene.

Merlin will be remembered for his unwavering love and dedication for his family and the joy he brought to those around him. He will be deeply missed.