Obituaries Archive

Imelda M. Kueter

Imelda M. (Manderscheid) Kueter, 97  of Bellevue, passed away on, Thursday, July 25, 2024 at her home surrounded by her family.

Mary Jo A. Ernzen

Mary Jo Ann Ernzen, 64, of Dubuque IA, formerly of Luxemburg IA, died Thursday, July 25, 2024, as the result of COPD disease progression.

Visitation will be held 2:00 – 7:00 p.m., Sunday, July 28, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross.  Visitation will continue 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 29, at Kramer Funeral Home, Holy Cross prior to funeral services.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., Monday, July 29, 2024, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Luxemburg.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Mary was born May 23, 1960, in Dubuque. Mary experienced a difficult childhood, but held the words of Footprints in the Sand close to her heart.  She married James “Jim” Ernzen. He preceded her in death on July 5, 2016.  Together they raised their family in Luxemburg.  Mary worked in various roles, primarily in childcare, where her love for children was visible.  As a homemaker, her five children remember always having meals to eat and laundry to help put away.  Mary and Jim nourished their family and many others with the fruits of their garden and meat processing skills. She was a devoted daughter in law to the one she called “Mom”, Florence Ernzen.  Mary had a great love for the Iowa Hawkeye Men’s basketball team and recently enjoyed watching women’s basketball too.  Mary was a simple person, who enjoyed playing euchre and spending time with family and friends. She lived for any moment she had with her eight grandchildren.

At Jim’s death, Mary experienced a Traumatic Brain Injury. Over the past eight years, Mary’s health slowly declined, as expected living with a TBI.  Mary became part of her children’s social groups, making inappropriate comments, ensuing laughter and always being feisty.  In the first five years of caregiving, Mary’s children accepted help from her sisters-in-law and the Cozy Corner adult daycare. She was spoiled by all her caregivers.  When she and her children made the difficult decision to admit more help was needed, Mary moved to Sunset Park Place, an assisted living community in Dubuque.  Mary was known for teasing her caregivers, making new friends and playing euchre seven nights a week.  She was everyone’s favorite.

Survivors include her children: David (April) Ernzen, Beth (Will Neumeister) Ernzen, Ben Ernzen, Jessica (Robert) Young, and Robin Ernzen; grandchildren: Ella, Carter and Brie Ernzen, Jack Neumeister, Joseph, Michael and Lucille Young, and Marielle Gossling; siblings: Teresa (Tom) Theisen, Sandy (friend, Terry) Neuhaus, Joe (Kerri) McDermott, Jackie (friend, Tom) Seikola, Tom (friend, Sheonna) McDermott, Bill (Colleen) McDermott and Dan McDermott; siblings in-law: Leonard Kremer, Kay (Dave) Stoffel, Geri (Bill) Hall, Mark (Bev) Ernzen; aunts and uncles, several nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews; and Josh, Nicole, and Montgomery Gossling who Mary thought of as family.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her father, Joe McDermott, her brother Jimmy McDermott, Jim’s parents Harold and Florence Ernzen, brothers-in-law Axel Seikola, Dean Neuhaus, Davey Ernzen, Donnie (Rosie) Ernzen, sister-in-law, Mary Ann Kremer, and Irvin & Lucille Stoffel who were just like family.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque for the tender care over the past two months.  As Mary needed more help, she made new friends with the hospice team who loved on her every need. 

Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family.  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

Gladys T. Didesch

Gladys Theresa (Lansing) Didesch, 89, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center with her loving daughter and son by her side. Beloved wife of 46 years to the late Al M. Didesch, loving mother to her children Alan and Debra, and cherished grandmother to Collin, Grant, and Ava.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday July 28, 2024 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service being held at 4:45 p.m. An additional visitation will be held on Monday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday July 29, 2024 at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Fr. Steve Rosonke. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Gladys was born on October 28, 1934, the daughter of the late Fredoline (Remke) Lansing and Walter Lansing. She grew up on the family farm in Ossian, Iowa, and was educated in the St. Francis de Sales Catholic School System. She later graduated from the St. Joseph Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Dubuque and went to work in the Surgery Department. She met her husband Al while caring for his ailing father. They married on October 12, 1957, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dubuque.

After raising her children, Gladys worked as a nurse for Drs. Faber and Stork and was then employed for 22 years with the American Red Cross. In 2003, the Red Cross Awarded Gladys with its prestigious “Tiffany Award” for her “employee excellence”.

Gladys is survived by her two children: Alan (Laurie) Didesch of Northbrook, Illinois; Debra (Glen) Schumock of Geneva, Illinois; her grandson Collin (Molly) Schumock, of Jacksonville, Florida; her grandson Grant Schumock, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and granddaughter Ava, of Chicago, Illinois. Gladys is also survived by her sisters Patty McCabe and Geri Maloy; and brothers-in-law Terrence Cobry and Robert Pankow.

In addition to her husband Al and her parents, Gladys was preceded in death by her brother Lawrence Lansing, her sisters Betty Welter, Esther Cobry, Rosalind Henneberry, Vi Pankow, and Inez Nutt, her sisters-in-law Arlene Lansing and Dolores Owsley, and her brothers-in-law John Welter, Arthur McCabe, Melvin Henneberry, Michael Maloy, and Leonard Owsley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Stonehill Health Center or Hospice of Dubuque.

The Family extends their sincere appreciation to Dr. Amy Winski and her nurse Stephanie, the staff at Stonehill Health Center, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their kind and loving care of Gladys.

Joan M. Wentworth

Joan M. Wentworth, 85, died Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at her son’s home surrounded by family.

Public visitation will be held beginning at 10:00 a.m. on August 3, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Public Celebration of Life Service will be at 11 a.m. at Carson’s with ash burial in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Pastor Carolyn Keck officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be her 7 grandchildren,  Billy and Brian Goeke, Walter and Jake Wehr, Laura and Cole Wentworth, and Rachel Denner.

Joan Marsha (Stoll) Wentworth was born January 6, 1939, in Moline, Ill. to Cecil D. & Pearl (Hopson) Stoll.  She graduated from Maquoketa Community High School in 1956, and from St. Luke’s Methodist Hospital School of Nursing, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, on Sept. 9, 1959.

She worked at the Jackson Co. Public Hospital as a Registered Nurse until 1971, when she went to work at Medical Associates of Maquoketa.

She entered into the Family Nurse Practitioner program at University of North Dakota at Grand Forks, N.D. on Oct. 7. 1974, graduating from that program on Sept. 26. 1975. Becoming one of the 1^st 6 Family Nurse Practitioners in the state of Iowa. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Dubuque in 1986. Later she worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner & Program Administrator with Savanna & Carroll Co. Health Service in Savanna IL.

She began as Director of the Home & Community Health Care Department (County Nurse) in 1987 to 1994. She was in charge when the Health Cruise, a weight loss program, was coordinated by several local agencies in the early 1990s. She left that position in 1994.  The next year she resumed her career as a Family Nurse Practitioner with Women’s Health Services.  She retired March 1, 2004.

Joan married Wm. Wentworth, her high school sweetheart, on Oct. 11, 1959 in Maquoketa. They spent most of their married life on the Wentworth ancestral family farm in rural Preston, where they raised 3 children.

She was an avid quilter and a long-time member of the Town & Country Quilters. She spent many years as the Archivist for the Jackson Co. Historical Society. She also loved to read and took special pleasure in her grandchildren and great-grandsons.

Joan is survived by her husband, Wm.; children, LuAnn (Jim) Goeke of Maquoketa, Donald (Carol) Wentworth of Preston and Carolyn (Walter) Wehr of Olathe KS. They have 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandsons. She is additionally survived by several nieces and nephews. Also survived by her self-appointed guardian and caregiver, Marvel, who lay next to her for countless hours, providing comfort, companionship and amusement.

Joan was preceded in death by her parents, grandparents, her brother, Jack, who was killed in the Great Belvedere (IL.) Tornado of April 21, 1967. Also, a half-brother, Jackie, who died when he was 10.

Special Thank You to Hospice of Jackson County, and, Caroline Bredekamp, (night caregiver), who made it possible for Joan to stay at home with her family during her final year.

Thank you as well to all her friends at the Jackson Co. Historical Society, who accepted her as she was and offered her unwavering friendship and support.

Memorials may be made to the family.

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

Donald W. Culbertson

Donald W. “Don” Culbertson, age 80, of Dubuque, passed away on Monday, July 22, 2024, at his home.  To honor Don’s life, private family services were held.  Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Don’s family.

Don was born on July 3, 1944, in Dubuque, Iowa, the 2nd of 10 children, to Donald Edward and Clara Ann (H’ore) Culbertson.

Don lived his entire life in Dubuque and East Dubuque.  He was very pleased to have just celebrated his 80th birthday with his family.  4th of July was by far his favorite holiday. Don loved to ride the bus and walk around town.  He liked going out to breakfast and checking out the pawn shops looking for a hidden treasure.  Don also enjoyed working with his family when he was able.

Those left to cherish Don’s memory include

his siblings,
Bonnie (John) Cate,
Tom (Linda) Culbertson,
Pam (Jerry) Bussan,
Joe Culbertson,
Sue (Mark) Epperhart,
Wally (Julie) Culbertson
and Jim Culbertson;

and several nieces and nephews.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Robert C. Culbertson and Patricia (Harold) Brandenburg; and Joe’s long time significant other, Lisa McNett.

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

Larry J. Maule

Larry Joseph Maule, 71, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Graveside military honors were held at Dubuque Memorial Gardens with military honors rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Mid-Atlantic Region Navy Honor Guard.

Larry was born December 11, 1952, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Harry and Mary (Konzen) Maule.

Larry was a U.S. Navy Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War from February 16, 1971 until February 1, 1973.

Larry worked for the City of Dubuque as a bus driver for 21 years, in that time he learned 21 different languages. He will be remembered most for his love of fishing, hunting, and helping others.

Survivors include his daughter, Sonya (William Malone II) Moran of Sparta, WI; three siblings, Maureen Erickson of Dubuque; Harry Maule of Wilton, WI; and Mary Maule-Lott of Olathe, KS; three grandchildren, Yasmine, Aidan, and Azden; and several nieces and nephews, including Tyler Lott, who was like a son to Larry.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Doctors and Nurses at Finley Hospital 5th floor and ICU for their loving care given to Larry, as well as the Dubuque County Veterans Affairs for their help and care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Make A Wish of Iowa.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Larry’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Genelda E. Krafjack

Genelda E. Krafjack, 95, of Dubuque, IA, formerly of Lancaster, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. Private graveside services for Genelda will be held on a later date in Cassville, WI. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.

Genelda was born on June 5, 1929, in Ellenboro Township, WI, the daughter of Leonard and Hannah (Koeller) Pierce. She was united in marriage to Carl E. Martin from October 5, 1948 to 1957. From this union came five children, Shirley (Doug) Orr, Connie Hamilton, Dyke (Joan) Martin, Patty (Phil Beckman) Kehoe and the late Sharon Martin.

In 1968 she married Richard Krafjack. She and Richard enjoyed traveling and owned and operated the Westward Ho Bar in Oshkosh, WI for many years. In her younger years, she worked at the Dubuque Packing Company. She also held many waitress positions at various restaurants. She worked very hard to support her five children. Genelda loved to quilt and crochet. She made many cherished items for her children and their families.

Genelda will be deeply missed by her children; her sisters, Louise Koelker of Lancaster, Helen (Norman) Hoffmann, of Madison, WI; her 9 cherished grandchildren, Michael (Julie) Trujillo, Dianna (Leon) Nafus, Sara (Jonathan) Lee, Stephanie (Owen) Warren, Stacey (Bret) Stubblefield, Courtney (Mike) Lorenz, Shannon Martin, Carey Martin and Dacia Kehoe; 13 great grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren with another great great granddaughter on the way.

She was preceded in death by her husband Richard; a daughter, Sharon Martin; brothers, Robert and Leonard Pierce; sisters, Leona Friedman and Marie Stoney; and brothers-in-law, Clarence Stoney and Gale Koelker.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Julie and Morgan for making mom’s last journey so peaceful. A special thank you to Dr. Mark Moore and Dr. Andrew Bland for taking such wonderful care of mom.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Genelda’s name.

Suzanne L. Shaffer

Suzanne “Susie” L. Shaffer, 73, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away at home with her family by her side on July 21, 2024.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home with Deacon John Stierman officiating. An additional visitation will be held Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the start of services. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Susie was born on October 21, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Frank and Joan (Hirsch) Foulk. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in the class of 1968. She was united in marriage to Thomas Cleary Shaffer on January 25, 1969.

Susie enjoyed needle point, bingo, slot machines and cheering on the Green Bay Packers. She also loved her family and enjoyed it when they could all get together.

Susie is survived by her children Rick (Stacy Thommen) Shaffer of Epworth, Ron “Red” Shaffer, Dawn (Bill Jr.) Mayne, and Brian (Tiffany Axtell) Shaffer, all of Dubuque, grandchildren Amanda Shaffer, Tyler Mayne, Alex Mayne, Kiernan (Kyleigh) Shaffer, Logan Mayne, Mikhayla Dalton, Madison Shaffer, and Peyton Shaffer, three great grandchildren Allyanna Mayne, Rosalie Dalton, and Eileen Shaffer, and four siblings Linda (Dennis) Krough, Frank Foulk, Mike Foulk, and Bruce Foulk.

She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Shaffer, mother Joan Foulk, siblings Dennis Foulk and Lonna and Ron Dress.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, and special friend Diane for all the amazing love and care for mom.

Norbert J. Ahlers

Norbert J. Ahlers, 60, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at his home, after battling an illness for over eleven years.

Visitation for Norbert will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Services for Norbert will be held at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Gabriel Mensah presiding.  Burial will be held at a later date.

Norbert was born on June 18, 1964, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Lawrence “Peanuts’ and Mary (Merfeld) Ahlers.  He was a graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  On September 24, 2011, he was united in marriage to Edna Scherbring in Worthington, Iowa.  He was an Independent truck driver and worked at John Deere Dubuque works.

Norb was a kind man with a personality with many facets, he loved to garden, loved his dogs and horses when they had the farm. He had a deep love and respect for his parents, and often reminisced about them.

He dreamed BIG…and was quite unique in his thoughts, as you could never predict what he would do next.  He loved to watch NASCAR races and dirt track races, having a box seat in Farley for many years.  He could often be found in the garage tinkering on something or other.

Most of all Norbert cherished his grandkids, and loved attending their sporting events.  He was their biggest fan.

He was a member of the Basilica St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, Iowa.

He was survived by his wife Edna Scherbring of Dyersville; five children, Brandon Ahlers, Mikayla Ahlers, Matthew Ahlers, Jacob Ahlers and Gage Ahlers; 4 step children, Jeremy (Sharon) Scherbring, Sara (Jason) Brashaw, and Jon Scherbring, and Drew (Laura) Scherbring; 8 grandchildren; two brothers, Kevin (Lisa) Ahlers and Jerome “Jerry” Ahlers; and three sisters-in-law, Edith (Doug), Anna (Joe) and Mary.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and a step-son, Brian Scherbring.

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

A Norbert J. Ahlers memorial fund has been established.

Krystyna Pacut

Krystyna Pacut (Janiec), 74, died peacefully, July 19, 2024, with family by her side in Iowa City following a sudden illness.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Now let me tell you how this FORCE in our lives LIVED and the sacrifices she made for her family so they could live the American Dream!

Krystyna was born March 13, 1950 in Nisko, Poland to Kazimierz and Maria Janiec.  From the time she was very little she lived a life of farming that was good but also had its difficult times.  We cherish the stories she would tell us of those hardships and to be grateful for all the little things in life.  These stories would often come up during celebrations and Christmas when my mom remembers having fruit like oranges as a treat or the local store actually carrying some fresh bread and baked goods.  Stores were not lined up with items like they are here in the United States. Most items were rationed so they relied heavily on their farming skills to provide but she always talked about how lovely that simple life was.  She absolutely adored doing chores with her father and just being by his side.

In 1971, she moved to Vienna, Austria where she would eventually meet and marry her husband of 46 years, Jack (Kazimierz) Pacut in 1975.  Again, we remember the stories my mom would tell us of working odd jobs while in Vienna, barely making any money and sometimes living on two rolls and a pint of milk for a week. I suppose these and her childhood memories were what set the base for my mom to love to cook and always provide food not just for the people she loved but for anyone that might be hungry.  She would always say that it was a basic right to be able to eat and one of the worst feelings was to be hungry, especially as a child.  My mom would ALWAYS stop at any corner or street for anyone asking for help.  She didn’t need to know why they needed help, just that they needed it.

In 1975, Jack and Krystyna immigrated to the United States, seeking the American dream with $300 in their pockets and their daughter, Anna Danuta on their lap.  Upon entry they asked and were granted asylum (Poland was communist at the time, hence why they set up residency in Vienna).  Upon settling in Newark, New Jersey, both she and Jack became permanent residents and again worked several jobs to pay the bills while learning the English language as well.  We would often laugh about how I would say we grew up in the projects but it was the truth and was some of the best times of our lives.  The diversity and ability to live and love people of every color and race was instilled in us from a young age by our parents but particularly by my mom.  Her genuine love for the human soul is something I will forever be grateful for.  She eventually settled on what she would say was her dream job with some of her best friends.  She was a cook at the local hospital in Somerville, New Jersey when everything was made from scratch and she absolutely loved it.  In 1980, they would welcome my brother, Joseph Henry.

In 1987, they were given an opportunity to expand on that American dream even further and move to the Midwest.  Dubuque, Iowa to be exact and were actually able to purchase a home, with a pool!  With this move came more sacrifices of which my mom was always making for her family and she left her job to work on the line for the plastics company my father became a maintenance manager for in Peosta, IA, Captive Plastics now Berry.  Here we made our home that was always full of the absolute best parties, food, friends (the Polish Mafia my husband would call them), music and Polish traditions that at times I know was so much work for my mom to prepare for but she always had a smile on her face, unless my dad had too much vodka or scotch of course.

In the years following, there were graduations, a wedding and travel to Poland, even family coming to visit from Poland.  You see it was not as easy as just booking a flight to travel from Poland to the United States.  You had to apply for and be approved for a travel Visa or be lucky enough to win one in the lottery.  The pursuit of the American dream again came with sacrifices like leaving her family in Poland and only communicating via phone calls, cards and packages she would send with items not available to them in Poland yet readily available here.  My mom also had been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and it is this battle that she fought day in and day out her whole remaining life that really made her stand out to be that force in my life. She taught me work ethic, love for family and friends, what is right from wrong and female empowerment.  She was always so proud of my accomplishment of becoming a nurse and working in Intensive Care and she made sure to let anyone she met know it.

In 2000, two of their biggest dreams came true.  My parents, including myself became US Citizens along with becoming grandparents to Liam Robert McComas.  In 2006, another dream came true when they welcomed granddaughter Emmy Krystyna McComas.  My mom adored and loved these kids with every single ounce of her soul.  There wasn’t anything they could do wrong in her eyes and she made sure to let them know it by letting them have all the full sugar sweet tea they ever wanted when visiting.  Even making a jug or two to send home with them because she knew I would never buy it.  She was so proud of these two and all their accomplishments and she made sure to let them know even up to her last day here with us on earth.

Upon retirement, life was filled with travel to all of the grandchildren’s activities, cooking, eating and Polish traditions at the holidays.  It’s these traditions that she instilled in us that will be missed but we will do our best to keep them alive.  Although, I am not sure I will ever be able to live up to and make her traditional white borscht at Easter or mashed potatoes but I will do my best.

With great memories came sorrow as well.  The passing of my father, Jack in September of 2021 followed shortly after by my brother Joey in March of 2023 really took a toll on my mother’s heart but as always, she picked herself up and fought through those tragedies to be present for our family.  She was fiercely independent and again the FORCE that kept us going.  She quickly learned how to use an iPhone after my brothers passing and our daily Facetime sessions began.  There wasn’t but maybe two days where we did not Facetime each other.  Her Facetime calls with Liam and Emmy were a highlight in her day and she continued to join me on the bleachers for all their activities.  Her love for my “Big Guy” Rob was immeasurable and she always told me how proud she was of him and how safe he always made her feel.  She loved him as her own son.  He was never introduced as “in law”.

Krystyna’s surviving family include daughter Anna (Rob) McComas, grandchildren Liam and Emmy, niece Beata and nephew Edek of Poland.

There will be a fun and casual Celebration of Life for my mom, dad and brother at a later date.  While this obituary is long, believe it or not, it still in no way tells my mother’s full story.  There is a reason why I call her our FORCE and there are no amount of words that will ever convey that level to anyone.  But what will help you understand is to ask us about her.  Ask us to tell you stories about her life.  Look and talk to our kids and you will see her in them.  She is a FORCE.  Until we meet again…. Muah!!

Frank B. Reinert

Frank B. Reinert, age 89, of Dubuque, passed peacefully at 8:35 a.m., on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center.  There will be a Celebration of Life held for Frank on Friday, August 23, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., at Hope Church, 11893 John F. Kennedy Road.  The family requests that you dress casually.  There will be desserts available and plenty of story telling.  Burial was in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery, Sherrill, Iowa.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Frank’s family.

Frank was born on March 21, 1935, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Joseph A. and Ida (Lowen) Reinert.

Frank proudly served his country with the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Beverly Schetgen, on August 23, 1958, at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque.  They had a wonderful life together and raised a loving family.  Frank was employed with John Deere Dubuque Works for 33 ½ years before retiring in 1992.  He was always on the go, and volunteered countless hours with several organizations in the Tri-State area including, the Washington Tool Library, St. Vincent de Paul and the Presentation Lantern Center.  Frank was a member of the Eagles Club, the American Legion Dubuque Post 6 and Nativity Church.  His faith was a very important part of his life.  If Frank could do something to help someone in his community he was always up to the challenge.  He also enjoyed being in the great outdoors.  He helped out on the farm caring for the animals, always planted a big garden and enjoyed going for long walks.  Frank was an extremely devoted family man who loved spending time with everyone.  He especially looked forward to spending time with the grandchildren.  Frank was a great man who always put others before himself.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Frank’s memory include

his wife,
Beverly Reinert, Dubuque, IA;

4 children who were always #1,
Laurie L. (Geoff) Weinschenk,
Carleen M. (Scott Austin) Schroeder,
Daniel J. (Becky) Reinert
and Ronald J. (Robin) Reinert, all of Dubuque, IA;

8 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren;

his siblings,
Bernard (Lori) Reinert, St. Louis, MO,
Cathy Ormen, San Raphael, CA
and Molly Murray, Olney, IL;

a sister-in-law,
Betty Reinert, Hazel Green, WI;

and several nieces and nephews.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Robert W. Reinert; his sisters, Sr. Clare Reinert, S.S.N.D., Mary (Paul) Noesen and Lucy (Ken) Donovan; his brothers, a twin brother, Herman Reinert, Anthony (Pauley) Reinert, Joseph (Karol) Reinert, John (Marjorie) Reinert, Charles (Deloras) Reinert, Raphael (Glenda) Reinert and Peter Reinert; and 2 brothers-in-law, Stan Ormen and Mike Murray.

Frank’s family would like to thank all of the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they have provided for Frank these past weeks.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards in Frank’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Frank Reinert Family.

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

JoAnne V. Bergfeld-Lehmann

JoAnne V. Bergfeld-Lehmann, 92, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at River Bend Retirement Community in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for JoAnne will be held from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 26, 2024 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 2:30 p.m. and the Dyersville American Legion Auxiliary will attend in a body at 7:00 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at the Funeral Home.

Services for JoAnne will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller Presiding.  Burial will be held in the church cemetery.

She was born April 8, 1932 in Dyersville, Iowa, daughter of Jerome and Helen (Westermeier) Ernster.  She was born at the height of the Great Depression, was 9 years old at the bombing of Pearl Harbor and graduated from St. Francis Xavier School in Dyersville.  Being forged by these historical events, she had an iron will and steely determination to get things done and done right.   She was a perfectionist in everything she did, her career as a waitress during high school and jobs at Interstate Power, Ertl Toy Company and lastly at Divine Word Seminary as an office clerk, Director of Financial Aid and completed her career as Registrar.  Through the years she continued to gain new skills and hobbies.  She was an excellent seamstress, leather crafter and calligrapher.  Her greatest accomplishment was her art.  She continued her art education by correspondence classes, attending art classes at Divine Word Seminary and the Roberta Kuhn Center, continuing to improve her skills to the end of her life.  She never considered her art to be good enough.

On February 5, 1951 she was united in marriage to Charles Bergfeld at St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on September 7, 1994.  She was united in marriage to William “Bill” Lehmann on September 14, 2002.  He preceded her in death on October 11, 2015.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Parish of Epworth, the Dyersville American Legion Auxiliary and the New Vienna VFW Auxiliary.  She was a member of several card clubs, was a Charter member of the Cup of Jo coffee club in Dubuque, and was on a golf league with her nephew, Gary Olberding.

She is survived by three children, Kathy (Terry) McDermott of Peosta, Bill Bergfeld (Anne McKinney) of Bethany Beach, DE, and Jeanne (Gary) Finder of Cantrall, IL; and an ex-daughter-in-law, Laura Bergeld of Ada, MI; seven grandchildren, Brett McDermott, Bethany McDermott, Jeremy Bergfeld, Sarah (Patrick Johnson) Bergfeld, Stacey Bergfeld, Courtney (Jeremy) Johnson, and Aaron (Allyssa) Finder; seven great grandchildren, Ainsley, Willa, Carrick, Maisie, Alina, Keira and Kai.  She is also survived by three siblings, Marjorie Olberding of Dyersville, IA, Judith Gempler of Edina, MN and Jerry Ernster of Birch Bay, WA.

She is also survived by five step-children, Robert (Anne) Lehmann of Ankeny, Susan (James) Schlichte and David Lehmann both of Farley, Nancy (John) Steffensmeier of Dyersville, and Gary (Lisa) Lehmann of Salem SC.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; one sister, Mary Balsamo; and one son Kenneth Bergfeld on November 11, 1989.

A memorial fund has been established in her name and funds will be distributed to her favorite charities.

An online Video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and the Staff of River Bend Retirement Community for all their care and support during this difficult time.

Shawn A. Troester

Shawn A. Troester, 42, of Dubuque, died Sunday, July 21, 2024, at his home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, July 26, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Shawn was born on May 28, 1982, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Steven M. and Diane M. (Olson) Troester. On July 22, 2017, he married Miriah Roath in Dubuque, Iowa.

Shawn graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 2000. In his high school years, Shawn enjoyed bowling, accomplishing a 300 game. After high school he went on to attend NICC for two years before graduating from Loras College in 2004 with his BA in Accounting. Shawn began working for RT & T Trucking out of East Dubuque, IL before going to work at John Deere Dubuque Works, where he has worked for the past 10 years.

Shawn had a passion for all things car related, working on cars, going to car shows, and buying and selling cars. He also loved to watch any type of car racing. His pride and joy was his 2000 Mustang GT. Shawn also dabbled in the stock market.

Survivors include his wife of seven years, Miriah Troester of Dubuque; his son, Chris J. Troester of Dubuque; Chris’s best friend, whom Shawn loved as a son, Dylan Zuccaro; three furry children, Kloe, Bear, and May; his parents, Steven and Diane Troester of Dubuque; his mother-in-law, Candy Roath of Dubuque; paternal-grandma, Nancy Moore of Dubuque; godmother, Kelly Dickson of Marco Island, FL; godfather, David Goffinet of Dyersville, IA; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

Shawn was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Eileen & Clarence Olson; paternal grandpa, Calvin Troester; paternal step-grandpa, Darrlle Moore; his father-in-law, Robert Roath; cousin, Landy Atencio; and three uncles, Gary, Stan, and John.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Randall J. Vaske

Randall J. “Randy” Vaske, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on July 19, 2024, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.  To honor Randy’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Randy’s family.

Randy was born on June 13, 1954, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Jim and Mary (Callahan) Vaske.  He loved his family and friends, enjoyed life, and kept things uncomplicated whenever possible.  Randy eventually found his soul-mate, LaVonne Wenzel, and the two were united in marriage and embraced each day hand in hand moving forward.  He faithfully invested his time and talents with IWI Auto Parts over the last 4 years, but had spent another 18 years at Tandem Tire prior, and even gave 12 years of his working career as a city bus driver where he made many friends along the way, including his wife. 

Randy was a gifted artist and thankfully leaves behind many of his creations for those who knew and loved him to treasure through the years ahead within the physical absence of Randy in their daily lives.  He was also an avid NASCAR fan and was always ready to sit down to the weekend race when time allowed.  Randy and LaVonne also enjoyed 4-wheeling and made many runs in their Jeep while enjoying the fellowship of friends and fellow enthusiast.  He possessed a contagious sense of humor and was truly generous to a fault.  Randy was surely the friend you always wanted to have in your corner when life happened around you.  We will miss Randy and his old hippy attitude towards life, but trust that he is at peace now from his earthly struggles and only waits patiently for us to arrive as well. 

Thank you, Randy, for keeping life simple and reminding all around you that life is short, don’t miss the moments as they pass by, but rather embrace each one with vitality and vigor until we’ve enjoyed our last one.   

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Randy include, his loving wife of 24 years, LaVonne Vaske, Dubuque, IA; his son, Sean (Traci) Vaske, Dubuque, IA; his granddaughter, Adelyn Vaske, Dubuque, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents.

Randy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Lyle H. Schepers

Lyle H. Schepers, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery.  All family and friends are welcome to attend.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Lyle Harold Schepers was born on June 15, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Harold H. and Anita E. (Busch) Schepers.  He grew up on the family farm south of Elwood and was a 1975 graduate of Delwood High School.  He then attended the University of Dubuque and later the Brown Institute of Broadcasting in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He married Nancy Jo Crouch on August 27, 1988 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.

Lyle had first worked for Hoffman Eggs in Maquoketa.  He then went into the radio broadcasting field and worked at KMAQ Radio Station in Maquoketa as an announcer and news director for several years.  He retired in 2022 after working for many years at Kraft/Heinz/Oscar Meyer in Davenport.

Lyle had served on the Elwood Cemetery Association board for several years.  He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan, loved traveling and helping people when he could, feeding the birds, and spending time with the family cats.   

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Nancy Schepers of Maquoketa, IA; sister and brother-in-law, Alice and Dennis Mans of Maquoketa, IA; mother-in-law, Mary Jo Crouch of Maquoketa, IA; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Randy (Lori) Crouch of Maquoketa, IA, and Mark (Diana) Crouch of Maquoketa, IA; and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Anita Schepers.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Jackson County Humane Society or the Maquoketa Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad.

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