Obituaries Archive

Barbara A. Culbertson

Barbara Ann Culbertson, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on August 15, 2024.

Visitation for Barb will be from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Her funeral service will begin at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. Diane Eddy officiating. Following the service a celebration of Barb’s life will be held at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road. The Burial will be at a later date at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Barb was born on December 15, 1945, in Chicago IL, the only daughter of Kenneth and Hazel (Stock) Schmidt. Barb graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964. After a career in administrative support, Barb retired from John Deere.

Barb is preceded in death by her parents, and brothers Thomas, Robert, and Jerry.

Barb is survived by her son Jay (Karen) Churchill, of Thurmont, MD., daughters Darcy (Jon) VanOstrand and Laurie Biggs, both of Dubuque, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

The family expresses gratitude to the staff at Ennoble Manor for their dedication and compassion shown to Barb while she was in their care also to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and kindness given to Barb in her final days.

Loras W. Schuster

Loras Shekleton William Schuster was born to Aloysius and Veronica (Shekleton) Schuster on October 11th, 1939. He departed this life on August 24th, 2024.

Loras grew up in Dubuque, Iowa where he attended St. Columbkille Catholic School and graduated in 1958. After high school, Loras studied Computer Science before joining the Army, also working with computers.

Loras met Therese Brady of East Dubuque, Illinois in 1969 and got married on October 24th, 1970. They leave five children to cherish their memories: Charles of Des Moines, IA, Mark (Dana) of Blue Spring, MO, Ted (Kelly) of North Aurora, IL, Tara (Jared) Flesch of Princeton, IA, and Sara of Wellman, IA; along with six beloved grandchildren: Alexis, Joy, Landon, Nicole, Michelle, and Aden. Loras is also survived by his sister, Imelda Hoffmann; and brother, Vince; and multiple generations of nieces, nephews, cousins; and brother-in-law, Ben (Evie) Brady.

Loras was a devout Catholic and loved to sing. For several years, he shared his talent and love of singing as a member of The Aurora Lamplighters Barbershop Chorus. When Loras wasn’t singing, reminiscing at his high school reunions, or attending his grandkids’ extracurricular activities, he was on his computer working on his highly extensive family tree.

Loras was preceded in death by his parents, Aloysius and Veronica; his wife, Therese; sisters, Virginia Frommelt, Jeannette Fitzpatrick, and Joan Grove; and nephews, Dick Frommelt, Mike Grove, David Grove; and brother-in-law, Jim Brady.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, August 30th, 2024, at 11:00 AM at St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church (1240 Rush St, Dubuque, IA 52003).

Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 30th, 2024, at 1:00 PM in Dubuque, IA with an additional Celebration of Life in North Aurora IL on Saturday, August 31st, 2024 at 1 pm.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

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

John W. Lattner

John W. Lattner, 72, of Peosta, Iowa passed away on August 20,2024 at Mercy One Hospital in Dubuque after a short illness.

Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Road, where there will be a prayer service held at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10 a.m. with Father Dave Schatz, Thursday, Aug. 29, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West. Military Honors will be accorded by the Air Force Honor Guard.

The son of Loras and Helen Ann Lattner, John was born October 28,1951 and grew up in Dubuque, Iowa as the oldest of five siblings. John was educated primarily by the superb Presentation Sister teachers at St Columbkilles Grade school. He graduated with the Wahlert Catholic High School class of  1969 followed by the United States Air Force Academy class of 1973. After serving his country at several bases in America and Japan, he returned to Iowa and worked in the banking industry, retiring as an Iowa State Bank Examiner in 2014.

On May 23, 1992 John married Mary Elizabeth (Arnold) Lattner “Beth” and they had two sons Tyler and Drew.

John Lattner was generally a soft-spoken, low-profile gentleman whose life was centered on his immediate and extended family.  He was a talented person with many accomplishments but he modestly never dwelt on the past. As a toddler, John had his picture taken at the Saint Columbkilles Holy Name Society breakfast posing with the 1953 Heisman Trophy winner from Notre Dame, Johnny Lattner. His life in the limelight peaked at age two when that photo was plastered in newspapers across the Midwest. Later in life, our Johnny held his high school’s record for the longest football touchdown pass of 96 yards, but in his unassuming manner he always pointed out that he only threw it five yards and Bob Boleyn ran the other 91 yards.

John preferred to live a faith-based life of service to family, friends, and country. Ultimately, his greatest enjoyment came from his sons and his grandchildren.  He faced his faults and hardships. Then he died a happy and fulfilled man.

John is survived by his son Drew (Deidre) Lattner, his grandchildren Elizabeth, Genevieve, Anna and an unborn baby (due Nov 2024), his step sons Brian (Laurie) and Jonathan Arnold, his brothers Mike (Claire) and Tom (Tammy) Lattner of Dubuque, his sister Mary Ann (Harlan) Roth of Cainesville, MO, his Aunt Esther Fagan as well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Tyler and his sister Lynne Lattner Prendergast.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Dubuque Dream Center.

Joan M. Neuses

Joan Mary Neuses, 95, of Dubuque, died Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Thursday, August 29, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Joan will be 10:00 am Friday, August 30, 2024, at Church of the Nativity with Father Stephen Audu as the Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Joan was born December 21, 1928, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Edward Martin and Viola Ellen McPoland Cupps. On April 30, 1949, she married Leo Francis Neuses at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He passed away on August 17, 2003.

She was a 1946 graduate of St. Joseph Academy.

She worked at Clarke University and the Dubuque Community School District, retiring in 1989.

She was a member of the Church of Nativity and the Rosary Society, as well as the Catholic Daughters of America – Court #1287, Birthright of Dubuque, Key City Genealogy Association, and St. Jude Quilters Club. She enjoyed reading, and traveling and was a talented quilter.

Survivors include one daughter, Janet Lammer of Troy, IL; two sons, David (Rhonda Kirch) Neuses of Temple, TX, and Larry Neuses of Dubuque; six grandchildren, Jessica (Bill) Sifford, James (Sarah Lowman) Hrabak, Michael (Alyssa Jennings) Lammer, Rebekah (Dan) Carter, Aaron (Rachael) Lammer, Angela (Craig) Caddell; seven great-grandchildren, Adam and Katelee Caddell, Henry “Hank” and Owen Hrabak, and Chloe, Leo, and Addison Carter; and three sisters-in-law, Jean Cupps, Margaret Neuses, and Louanne Greene.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one daughter, Susan Hrabak, one son-in-law, David Lammer, her parents, three brothers, Gerald (Virginia) Cupps, Robert Cupps, and Kenneth Cupps; three sisters, Mary Ellen Cupps, Virginia Cupps, and Barbara (Richard) Freund, brothers- and sisters-in-law, Joseph Neuses, Irvin (Marveen) Neuses, Cyril Neuses, Marian (Stanley) Chapman, Ken Konzen, and Helen Kollman.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Birthright of Dubuque and Church of the Nativity.

The family would like to thank Margie and Al Freund, Donna Breitbach, Shirley Lanners, the DuRide drivers, Hospice of Dubuque, and all of her friends and caregivers for the continuous love, support and friendship throughout the years.

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

Verenna E. Dagitz-Stein

Verrena E. (Giesemann) Dagitz-Stein, 94, of Dubuque, formerly of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, August 24, 2024.  Funeral Services will be 11:00 am, Wednesday, August 28, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 9:30 am until services at the church.  Burial will be in St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue.

Local arrangements entrusted with Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Verrena was born November 10, 1929, in Bellevue, Iowa, daughter of John & Amanda (Wiese) Giesemann.  She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, where she was baptized, confirmed, and married.  She married Melvin Dagitz on September 3, 1950.   Together they had three children.  Melvin passed away on November 4, 1984.  She later married Kenneth Stein in 1999.  He passed away on June 25, 2005.

After marriage Melvin and Verrena lived in Bellevue and were members of St. John Lutheran Church there.  She enjoyed the friendships she made in Elizabeth Circle and Chapter FL PEO.

Prior to marriage, Verrena worked at Roshek’s Grille in Dubuque.  Verrena was a homemaker while her children were growing up. She was a Den Mother and used her sewing skills to alter band uniforms, play costumes, and cheerleading uniforms.   After Melvin’s passing, she worked at Mill Valley Care Center for 15 years, most of that being in the activity department, which she loved.  She volunteered at Mill Valley Care Center and the Bellevue Butterfly Garden, receiving a volunteer award from Governor Ray.

Verrena enjoyed living in the Luther Manor Communities since 2013.

Her family was most important and always came first.  She loved being with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Left to honor her memory are two children, Betty (Ron) Cavanagh of Dubuque, Mark (Amy) Dagitz of Des Moines, and a step-daughter, Sandra Stein of Lawrenceville,  New Jersey.  Also her seven grand-children:  Amy (John) Welter, Brad (Jen) Cavanagh, David Yeager, Matt (Karen) Cavanagh, Christopher Yeager, all of Dubuque, and Wilhelm and Anneliese Dagitz of Des Moines, as well as her great-grandchildren:  Daniel, Sophie, Thomas Welter and Sam, Andrew, Ryan, Collin Cavanagh, all of Dubuque, and many nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husbands, a daughter Judy (Neill) Yeager, and by her three brothers and their spouses, Kenneth (Thelma) Gieseman, George (Adela) Giesemann, and Virgil (Mary) Giesemann; also her in-laws Dorothy Dagitz, Donald (Lois) Dagitz, and Ella King, and two nephews, Tommy Giesemann and Gary Giesemann.

James E. Metz

James E. “Jim” Metz, age 71, Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on August 24, 2024, at home, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Jim’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on November 20, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Ralph “Pete” and Delores (Leppert) Metz. He was a kind and generous man and always gave more of himself than he would ever hope to receive.  Jim spent his working career with Rite Hite, but those who knew him well were quite aware that his happy place was truly getting comfortable in his favorite recliner after he arrived home when the workday was done. Jim enjoyed hunting and fishing throughout his life, but if the opportunity arose to do a little traveling around the world with his beautiful bride in hand, Jim was going to rise to the occasion and allow the next adventure to begin.  He was also a faithful volunteer within our community and when Resources Unite, or a food giveaway was in need of some assistance, you could be sure that Jim was going to be present and accounted for.  His easy-going nature was continually on display and getting in a relaxing walk in with a little sunlight and some fresh air around him was all Jim required to assess the day as a perfect one. We will miss Jim more than words could possibly depict accurately, but we know that his earthly health battles were taking a toll that Jim was simply finished paying.  Thank you, Jim, for reminding us that life can be as humble and rewarding as we choose to make it and we hope that you are resting peacefully today in the loving arms of our Savior as we wait patiently to see your sincere and joy filled smile once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jim include,

his loving wife of 52 years,
Vickie Metz, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Aaron (Tara) Metz, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Olivia Metz, Brady Metz, Carter Fisher, Haley Dressler, and Hunter Dressler;

his sibling,
Kenny (June) Metz, Dubuque, IA,
Danny (Mary) Metz, Dubuque, IA,
LuAnn Metz, Dubuque, IA,
Linda (Chuck) Kleiner, Dubuque, IA,
and Lori (John) Dunwoody, Dubuque, IA;

his brothers and sisters-in-law,
Tom (Becky) Weidenbacher, Dubuque, IA,
Albert (Amy) Weidenbacher, Dubuque, IA,
David (Dana) Weidenbacher, Grundy Center, IA,
Ron Weidenbacher, Leisure Lake, IA,
Linda (Tong) Chong, East Dubuque, IL,
Rhonda (Kenny) Norpel, Dubuque, IA,
and Pam Reding, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Eric J. Metz; his daughter, Alicia Metz; and his mother and father-in-law, Al (Joyce) Weidenbacher.

Jim’s family would like to thank Dr. Freiburger, his staff, and the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Robert Bradshaw III

Robert “Derrick” Bradshaw III, 55, of Asbury, died Thursday, August 22, 2024, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Derrick will be 6:00 pm Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Derrick was born February 6, 1969, in Tulsa, OK, the son of Robert Donald and Jan (Bass) Bradshaw. On October 28, 2000, he married Lori Blosch in Dubuque.

He attended the University of Oklahoma and graduated from NICC.  Derrick dedicated the last 17 years to working as a respiratory therapist. His selflessness was evident in his commitment to his patients, and he was honored to assist in saving numerous lives.

Derrick cherished spending time with his family and pets, finding joy in cooking, camping, golfing, and fishing with his boys. His love for music was reflected in his talent as a fantastic drummer. He will always be remembered for his warm heart and sense of humor and will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Survivors include his wife, Lori; two sons, Andrew (Molly Myers) Bradshaw of Dubuque, and Michael Bradshaw of Asbury; his mother, Jan Bradshaw of Tulsa, OK; two brothers, Michael Bradshaw and Rick (Brittany) Bradshaw, both of Tulsa, OK; three sisters, Tina (Richard) Koziol of Mauston, WI, Alison (Berry) Beal of Houston, and Tara Brighton of Dallas; his mother-in-law, Victoria Putman of Bellevue; three sisters-in-laws, Lisa Blosch Eaton, Catherine (Tony) Furlin, and Elizabeth (Tyler) Weimerskirch, all of Bellevue; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father; his father-in-law, Rick Blosch; grandparents, Roy and Lola Bass, and Bob and Leta Bradshaw.

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

Frances A. Heilman

Frances Adelia (McGill) Heilman, beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and aunt, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 23, 2024. A sometimes devout Catholic, Frances incorporated what she considered to be the very best aspects of various faiths to create a relationship with God that was uniquely her own— “Catholic-lite,” she called it.  She firmly believed that this world was only one “village” and that in leaving us she was simply moving on to the next one.

Frances lived a life marked by her feisty arguments with the Lord, boundless love, and a deep commitment to her family.  Her nurturing spirit extended to her treasured cats, Eek and Cherry, who brought her joy and companionship.  An avid reader, Frances devoured books of all kinds and became one of the most intelligent conversationalists you’d ever want to meet.  Her curiosity was boundless, and she loved sharing the solace and inspiration she found in the pages of her many books with others.

Frances believed strongly in personal freedom tempered by responsibility, and in holding people in authority accountable.  She raised her children to do the same, but may have regretted that when she was the authority in question.

Frances is survived by her husband, a sister and brother, her children, her grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and a host of other family members and friends who will remember her for her wisdom, independence, and loyalty.  She was a beautiful soul who will be missed beyond words.  We all hope her next village has plenty of strong coffee, lots of chocolate, lemon drops, crispy bacon, oranges, kitty cats, and all the books that have ever been or will be written.  We love you, Mom.

A celebration of her extraordinary life will be planned for some time next year.  In place of flowers, we request that you honor her by donating to the Dubuque County Library – Asbury Branch, your local library, the Humane Society, or St. Vincent de Paul.

Online condolences for Frances’ family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Pamela J. Ohms

Pamela Jill Ohms, 71, of Galena, IL, passed away Saturday morning, August 24, 2024 at home surrounded by her family.

Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 30, 2024 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Schapville, IL, and from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. on Saturday at the church, where funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. James Mehltretter officiating. Burial will be in the Scales Mound Twp. Cemetery. The Miller-Steinke Funeral Home of Scales Mound is assisting the family.

Pamela was born in Dubuque, IA to Genevieve May Wilson Northcraft and Ronald Everett Northcraft on May 16, 1953. She grew up on Jail Hill in Galena, IL & attended the Galena Schools.  On March 25, 1978, Pam married Stephen E. Ohms.  She began her teaching career at Virden Illinois Junior High and High School teaching vocal music and classroom guitar.  She later taught music for 1 year in Scales Mound, IL with 10 HS band students in the fall & left that spring with 25 signed up for the following year.  Pam retired from the Galena Public Schools after teaching music & numerous grade levels in the regular classroom for 35 years.  She loved all the grades & students. Pam loved traveling & making music with others, especially being the Galena Choral Society’s youngest member in 7th grade, a friend of Grace Episcopal Choir, Galena Center for the Arts Love Notes & Summit Street Singers.  She was an organist at Shepherd of the Hills Luther Church as well as substitute organist throughout the tri-state region.  She accompanied many school & community musicals as well as concerts, solo & ensemble contests and area festivals.  Pam was an avid reader & life-long learner and, as an adult, learned to play the flute & harp for numerous weddings and her kindergarten students during quiet time.

She grew up in the First Presbyterian Church in Galena & it’s choir & was active in many churches throughout the area & a member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church as well as a Stephen Minister in Schapville, IL.  She enjoyed Bible & text studies as well as diakonia classes.

Survivors include her loving husband of 46 years, Steve Ohms, of Galena, her son Dr. Adam (Amanda) Ohms of Edwardsville, IL, grandchildren Aria Ohms and Alexander Ohms who she loved beyond measure, a sister, Dr. Sally Nador, of Willmette, IL who traveled the world with her. Pam is also survived by her brothers-in-law & sisters-in-law, Kathy Holland, Stuart & Mary Ohms of Galena, Pat & Sheila Ohms, Roxanne (Bill Foley) Foley, of Scales Mound, Laurel (Rick) Gile, of Freeport, & Paula (Larry) McPeek, of Stockton, Tom (Julie) Ohms of Apple river, as well as many cousins, numerous nieces/nephews & great nieces & nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws Charles & Irma Ohms, and her brother-in-law Larry Holland & a nephew Michael Nador.

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

Susan M. Goldsmith

Susan Marie (Fleming) Goldsmith, 61, of Dyersville, passed away early on August 21, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, after a six-year journey with breast cancer that had metastasized to her brain, skin, and several bones.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. Monday, August 26, 2024 at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 2024 prior to the Mass of Christian Burial.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 27, 2024 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, celebrated by Sue’s brother, Fr. David Fleming, with Fr. Michael McAndrew and Fr. Chris Podhajsky co-celebrating. Burial will be in St. Francis Cemetery at a later date.

Sue was born on October 9, 1962, to Robert and Mary Ann Fleming, in Des Moines. She graduated from Dowling Catholic High School in 1981. Sue earned a B.A. in Education from the University of Northern Iowa in 1986, and M.A. in Education from Viterbo University in 2008.

Sue met her husband, Thomas Goldsmith, when she was a bridesmaid for his sister, Sue Miles. Despite his puka shell necklace, Sue “just knew” before the end of that weekend they would get married.  They married one year later on July 12, 1986, at Visitation Catholic Church in Des Moines.

Tom and Sue were blessed with two children—Ian, in 1989, and Hannah, in 1994—who were Sue’s greatest joys.  She also had a heart full of love for her granddaughter, Josephine Susan Goldsmith.

She loved being a teacher and taught at St. Joseph in Key West, St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville and Maquoketa Valley CSD in Delhi, Earlville, and Hopkinton. Before retiring in 2020, Sue spent 23 years at M.V., first as an associate, then Talented and Gifted instructor, and most recently, a fifth-grade teacher. M.V. was her “school family.”

Although she loved being in the classroom with her students and sharing a laugh with friends, Sue considered herself an introvert, often joking, “I’m one step away from being a hermit.” She most enjoyed spending time together with her family, sharing laughs and playing games.  Sue also valued having quiet time to read, having a hard time putting down a book once she began it, often finishing it in one sitting.

Sue is survived by her husband, Tom; children, Ian (and Jackie) Goldsmith of Atlanta, Ga. and Hannah (and Kevin) Goldmink of Cuba City, WI; her granddaughter Josephine,; mother, Mary Ann Fleming of Ankeny; siblings: Joe (Therese) Fleming of San Diego, Cal., Rev. David Fleming of Des Moines and Karen Fleming (Dave Richards) of Des Moines; in-laws: Cheryl (Gary) Gates of Hopkinton, Jeff (Pam) Goldsmith of Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., Bruce (Amy) Goldsmith of Earlville, Andy ‘Grover’ (Ellen) Goldsmith of Delhi, Sue (Joel) Miles of Hopkinton and Gary (Lana) Goldsmith of Iowa City; aunts and uncles: Linus ‘Butch’ Flick, Alice ‘Tudy’ Lockwood and Doyle DeVoe; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her dad, Bob; parents-in-law, Leo ‘Duff’ and Doris Goldsmith; nephew, Austin Goldsmith; grandparents, Marvin and Alma Fleming and Cletus and Laura Flick; aunts and uncles: Leota DeVoe, Joan and Vernal Thompson, Donald and Phyllis Flick, Madonna Flick and Donald Lockwood.

The family would like to thank all the staff at MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, especially Dr. Eric Engelman, the oncology nurses and staff and the Palliative Care team of Diane Rambousek and Kelly Skrivseth, for their compassionate care. Thanks also go to Hospice of Dubuque and the entire staff at Stonehill Care Center for their excellent care in the final life stage.  Special thanks goes to Kris Wilson, Sue Miles and Cheryl Gates for their exemplary “chauffeur services” to Sue’s many appointments; to Sue’s ‘Girlfriend Group” of Lynne Moser, Diane Sperfslage, Nancy Schlueter, Sandy Jaeger, Cathy Juran, Lisa Goedken, Sarah Goedken and Kate Lueken, who made sure Sue got out of her bubble and had lots of fun; and to everyone who visited, called, sent cards and lifted Sue up through prayer during her six-year journey.

In lieu of flowers or memorial items, Sue expressed her wish for donations to Maquoketa Valley Dollars for Scholars or St. Francis Xavier School Scholarship Fund.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Online condolences and memorials may be sent to Kramer Funeral Home, c/o Sue Goldsmith Family, 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Darlene H. Ertl

Darlene H. Ertl, 91, of Dyersville passed away Thursday, August 22, 2024, at her home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 am – 12:30 pm on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate.

Darlene was born March 21, 1933, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Herman and Lena (Jaeger) Straub.  She graduated from Immaculate Conception Academy and spent 2 years in nursing.  Darlene married Robert Ertl on May 5, 1956, in Dubuque, and together raised their family in Dyersville. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of America Court St. Rose, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 137, The Red Hat Ladies and Farm Bureau.

Survivors include her children: Karolyn (Steve) Olberding of Dyersville, Krisanne (Kelly Kluesner) Ertl of Dubuque, IA, Karl (Pam) Ertl and Daniel (Kelly Angell) Ertl, both of Estes Park, CO, and David (Becky) Ertl of Cascade; grandchildren: Dawn Olberding and Jeremy (Carisa) Olberding, Steven, Matthew (Nicolle) and Elizabeth (friend Kyle Welty) Ertl, Jarrett (friend Ruth Walker) and Samuel (fiancé Amy Cabalka) Ertl, Ryan (Sherill) and Alex Funke, and Jade Ertl; great grandchildren: Zachary and Marcus Chetto, Everlee and Amara Olberding, Marcus and Cadence Cardona, Lincoln and Jackson Funke, Evie and Greta Verhulst, Holden Ertl, Mya and Scarlett Stiefel; in-laws: Carol (Mike) Lundergan of Cedar Rapids, IA, Joseph (Helen) Ertl and Susan Ertl, both of Dyersville, Patricia Ertl of Guttenberg, and several close friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Robert in 2005, parents-in-law, Fred F., Sr. and Gertrude (Sauser) Ertl; granddaughter, Stefanie Olberding; siblings: Karl Straub, Harold H. (Kathryn and Kay Hoppmann) Straub; in-laws: Loras Benn, Fred (Nancy) Ertl Jr., Allan Ertl, and John Ertl.

Special thank you to the staffs of Hospice of Dubuque, Making A Difference, Helping Hands, Tri-County Care, and family and friends, Joe and Helen Ertl, Emily Nurre and Linda Werner for all of the wonderful care Mom received over the last few years.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA 52040.

James K. Cheney

James K. “Jim” Cheney, 81, of Dubuque passed away at home surrounded by family on August 20, 2024, from complications of cancer. He was born on September 1st, 1942, to Clyde J. and Erma G. (West) Cheney.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a service of sharing to be held at 4:30 p.m. An honor guard will be provided by the City of Dubuque Police Department from 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Jim graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in the class of 1963. He married his high school sweetheart, Sherry Meister, on August 21st, 1965. In 1966, he joined the Dubuque Police Department, where he served as an officer for 30 years. After retiring from the department, he worked as the head of security at Finley Hospital for 15 years.

Jim is the father of three wonderful daughters: Gina (Tim Douglas, fiancé) Reichel, Dubuque; Jamie (Cristian) Chavez, Garland, Texas; and Jolyn (Wayne) Miller, Dubuque. Jim was a very proud father and supported the girls in all of their interests. He was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader for 6 years, an AYSO soccer coach, and an avid fan of his daughters’ and grandchildren’s sports activities.

Jim is survived by his wife, Sherry; his three daughters; his grandchildren, Wayne Miller Jr.; Jenna (Alec) Lyster; Jason (Kaitlin Rodriguez, fiancée) Reichel; Stanleyck Chavez; Jayme Miller; and Jacey Miller; and great granddaughter, Aspen Lyster. Also, surviving Jim are his mother-in-law, Loyette Eby; son-in-law, Jeff Reichel; sister-in-law, Pam Cheney; niece, Christina Cheney; nephew, Chris Cheney; and several cousins.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law, William C. Meister, and his brother, Richard “Dick” Cheney.

Jim will be missed by his family, and the family truly believes the world was a better place because he was in it.

The family would like to thank Jim’s doctors and nurses that gave him such great care at Finley Hospital, and Dubuque Hospice for making it possible for Jim to be at home, with his family that he loved. A special thank you is given to Jim’s son-in-law, Wayne, for all his compassionate care and assistance in Jim’s final months.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Finley Hospital, Hospice of Dubuque, Hawkeye Care Center, and the Dubuque Police Protective Association.

Diana Smith

Diana Smith, 69, of West Des Moines, IA, formally of Dubuque, IA  passed away on Friday, August 9, 2024 surrounded by her family.

Diana was born on November 6, 1954 to Dorrance and Violetta Pluym in Dubuque, IA. She attended Wahlert High School in Dubuque and graduated in 1972. During her adolescence, she was an avid member of the Colts Drum and Bugle Corps and she continued to follow them throughout the years.

She went on to marry Terry Smith and had three children, Jeromy, Adam and Talli Smith.

Diana retired from McKesson Corporation and moved to West Des Moines, IA in 2019 so she could be closer to her children and grandchildren. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister and friend who was always there when we needed her the most, offering support, and love in abundance. On the weekends, you would find her racing from field to field and gym to gym, to watch her grandchildren play in various sports. She loved to travel, especially if there was a beach. She cherished her children and her grandchildren were the center of her universe. This sudden loss leaves a profound imprint on the heart of her family as well as all those who were lucky enough to know her.

Diana is lovingly remembered by her children, Jeromy, Adam (Sarah) and Talli Smith; siblings, Doris Feipel, Donna Engler and David (Diane) Pluym; grandchildren, Rylee, Jack, Henry, Aiden, Greta and Olivia, great-grandchild Murphy, and a community of friends.

She rejoins her parents, Dorrance and Violetta Pluym, and brother-in-law David Feipel in eternal peace.

A celebration of life will be held at St John the Apostle Catholic Church in Norwalk, IA on September 28, 2024 at from 12:00-3:00.

Roger L. Clark

Roger Lee Clark, 72, of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, August 21, 2024, at UnityPoint Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, August 26, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa.

Roger Lee Clark was born on October 9, 1951 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Frances Clayton and Evelyn (Peoples) Clark.  He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School.  He married Christine Viriginia Clapham on October 2, 1971 in Dubuque, Iowa.  Two children were born to this union, Elizabeth and Robert.

Roger had first worked for 17 ½ years for ESKA Motors in Dubuque as a quality control inspector.  He then worked for 25 years until retirement at McGraw Hill (formerly William C. Brown Publishing and Times Mirror) in Dubuque as a senior foreign processing specialist and associate.  Roger loved working for McGraw and missed his McGraw family.  He always enjoyed getting to work early and making sure there was a full pot of coffee.  He especially missed his good friends Jason, Moose, Lynn and Wendy.

Roger enjoyed deer hunting and sight-seeing trips with his wife Christine.

Those left to honor his memory include children, Elizabeth (Aaron) Bruns of Zwingle, IA, and Robert Clark of Zwingle, IA; 2 grandchildren, Ava and Emily; siblings, Larry “Butch” (Carol) Clark of Zwingle, IA, Darlene Clark of Dubuque, IA, and Betty (Tom) Streets of Scotch Grove, IA; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Christine on April 1, 2014, a brother Robert, and sisters Lois Elkins, LaVonne Morehead, and Ruth Siegel

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the Key West Fire Department and Rescue Squad.

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

Bart D. Butler

Bart D. Butler, passed away on August 18, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. Born to Ellen Dominy and Burton Butler on July 7, 1969, in Dubuque, Iowa, Bart was a cherished husband, father and friend throughout his 55 years.
‍
Bart’s early years were spent in the company of his siblings, Brett and Beth in Dubuque. After graduating from Stephen Hempstead High School in 1987, he pursued his passion for technology at Iowa State University, earning a degree in Computer Science in 1992. This was not just the start of a successful career but the laying of a foundation for a life full of achievements and service.

Professionally, Bart was respected as an innovator and leader. He began as a programmer at Pioneer Hi-Bred in Johnston, Iowa and grew to a technology executive at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida and European Wax Center in Aventura, Florida and later as a proud founder of his own consulting business. His work shaped the future of technology within those companies and the lives of those he mentored. Bart never shied away from pushing the boundaries of creativity and storytelling in all aspects of his career.

In 1993, Bart married his best friend and great love, Elizabeth Zenti. Together, they built a family, and a life filled with love and laughter in Celebration, Florida and Bart was a devoted father to his daughter, Fiona.
‍
Bart’s life was one of dedication to his family and friends. Whether it was supporting his daughter in her competitive soccer career or passing along his wisdom, Bart cherished making a difference in people’s lives that helped them to be better. Bart loved learning and never stopped teaching and mentoring all around him.
‍
Predeceased by his mother Ellen, Bart’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Elizabeth, and his daughter, Fiona. Bart had a wide circle of family, friends and colleagues who will also feel his absence.

Bart Butler will be remembered as a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His comedy, wisdom, and the joy he brought to every gathering will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

In lieu of funeral services, family and friends will gather at a later date to celebrate Bart’s life.

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

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