Obituaries Archive

Gwenith Burk

Gwenith “Marguerite” Burk, 82, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024. Visitation will be from 4 to 7pm, Friday, July 5, at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, July 6, at St Columbkille’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral service can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Marguerite Burk was born on February 8, 1942 to Francis W. and Gwenith (Grant) Blake in Kansas City, Kansas. Marguerite graduated from Bishop Ward High School where she actively participated in theater, dance, and track and was once said to be “the fastest girl in Kansas City”. After high school she was tasked with the challenge of helping to wrangle her four nephews in California, a time she reflected on fondly…mostly.  Marguerite married Larry Burk on December 22, 1964. She supported him through his MBA studies by working at a travel agency and together they moved all over the country for Larry’s career, finally settling in Dubuque, IA where together they raised four children.

As her kids got older, Marguerite invested in her love of antiques, and enjoyed attending auctions to find pieces, refinishing and reselling her finds.  She was also an avid card player and enjoyed her decades-long bridge club, where she developed lifelong friendships, which she cherished.

Marguerite’s quiet strength and love for her family will always be remembered. She was most proud of her title of mother and grandmother. She always went above and beyond for her kids, volunteering to run activities, chaperone field trips and handmade chocolate treats for Valentine’s Day.  She loved spending time with her family, playing competitive games of Acquire, beating her grandkids in Euchre, showing off her dance moves, and an occasional trip to the casino.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her husband Larry, parents Francis and Gwenith Blake, and two brothers, Bud and Jim Blake, and brother-in-law John Colteaux.

Left to remember Marguerite are her children: Jason (Nancy) Burk, Goodland, KS, Genevieve (Erik) Sogge, San Jose, CA, Ryan (Nellie) Burk, Peosta, IA and Nathan (Jessica) Burk, Los Angeles, CA; her 9 grandchildren, Ethan, Simon, Henry and Luke Burk, Olin and Thomas Sogge and Caden, Conner and Allie Burk; her sister Genevieve Colteaux of California, sisters-in-laws Lee Blake and Peg Blake, and many nieces and nephews.

JoAnn Oftedahl

JoAnn Oftedahl, 68, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, surrounded by her family.

According to her wishes, there will be no services. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, is entrusted with arrangements.

JoAnn was born July 30, 1955, in Slayton, MN, the daughter of Edward and Sarah Gieselman.  JoAnn met her soulmate and love of her life; Philip Oftedahl, in high school, and they married on October 20, 1973 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Minnesota.

JoAnn was a devoted wife, and her greatest dream in life was to be a mother. JoAnn and Philip welcomed their three children, and she made homemaking her passion, cooking, baking, and sewing her kids clothes and Halloween costumes. She was delighted when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, and she loved helping to raise all of them. JoAnn was always up for an adventure, and she made many wonderful memories on family trips, especially Maui.

JoAnn is survived by her beloved husband, Philip Oftedahl; three children, Mark (Melissa) Oftedahl, Ryan (Abby) Oftedahl, and Mindy Wiley; her grandchildren, Alex, Cole, and Kayla Oftedahl, Colton Wiley, and Emma Oftedahl; two great-grandchildren, Jaasella and Aaveiya; her mother, Sarah Gieselman; two sisters, Lorie (Brian) Roux, and Janet Anderson; her sister in law, Rachel Mirghavamedin; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Gieselman, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Johnny and Donna Oftedahl; and an unborn grandchild.

JoAnn’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque; especially her nurse Casey, whose care and compassion helped us navigate this tremendous loss.

William R. Reynolds

William R. Reynolds, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 2:20 p.m. on July 1, 2024, at home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 7th, 2024, and after 9:00 a.m. on Monday at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.  A wake service will be held at 12:45p.m. on Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday July 8th, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West with Msgr Thomas Toale officiating.  The burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

William was born July 6, 1939, in Potosi, WI, the son of Lawrence and Lucille (Hauk) Reynolds.  He graduated from Cassville, WI High School.  He was united in marriage to Mary Virginia Donovan on May 14, 1960, at St. Joseph Church Key West.  He was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works; he retired in 1995 after 30 years.

He served in the Navy on the aircraft carrier USS Wasp from 1963 to 1965.  He was a member of UAW 94.  He enjoyed getting together with family, hunting, fishing and spending time at his property in Wisconsin.

He is survived by his wife; son David (Sue) Reynolds; daughters Jane (Scott) Schauer and Connie Reynolds; grandchildren Scott, Eric (Brecklyn) and Ali Reynolds, Jonathan Sutter, Britney Reynolds; step-grandchildren Justin (Katie) and Jason (Kelsie) Schauer and Jaimie (Daniel) Stark; grandson-in-law Tim Berning; great-granddaughter Harper Berning; brothers Jim (Sharon), Joe (Melanie), Jerry (Theresa), Ronnie (Patti) Reynolds; sister Helen (Ron) Udelhofen; sisters-in-law June (Don) Grass, Dorothy Mueller, Carol Reimer; brother-in-law Ron (Pat) Donovan.

William was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law Vincent and Mary (Schuster) Donovan, brothers Jack (Linda) and Bob Reynolds and granddaughter Rachel Berning.

A William R. Reynolds memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kim, Kevin and Peggy for their care and concern for Bill.

Marilyn C. Paulsen

Marilyn C. Paulsen, 91, of DeWitt, Iowa, and formerly of Delmar, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Fieldstone of DeWitt.

Marilyn Carol Kinrade was born on June 28, 1933 in Clinton, Iowa, to Leonard Quinlan and Alice Theresa (Lane) Kinrade.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1951 graduate of Maquoketa High School.   She married Allen Lee Paulsen on November 16, 1952 at the United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Five children were born to this union, Joy, Steve, Jill, David, and Ron.

Marilyn was a mother and farmwife who farmed with her husband on the family farm east of Elwood until retirement.

Marilyn was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, and the Polka Club of Iowa.  She was an accomplished area seamstress who enjoyed sewing, quilting, and dancing.

Those left to honor her memory include children, Joy Sheeley of Moscow, IA, Steve (Brenda) Paulsen of Delmar, IA, Jill (Matt) Goodman of Spragueville, IA, Dave (Tammi) Paulsen of Lisbon, IA, and Ron (Joyce) Paulsen of Elwood, IA; 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren brother, Bill Kinrade of Ames, IA; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandra Kinrade of Maquoketa, IA, Onalee Keeney of Maquoketa, IA, Carolyn Dennis of Lakeland, FL, and Gene Ulvestad of Ames, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Allen Lee Paulsen on February 17, 2023, siblings James “Jim” Kinrade and Doris Ulvestad, daughter-in-law Jeanne Paulsen, son-in-law Kent Sheeley, and a great-granddaughter Katherine Frett.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 12:45 P.M at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be at a later date at the Lost Nation, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marilyn C. Paulsen memorial fund has been established.

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

James L. Breeden

James L. “Jim” Breeden, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, July 1, 2024, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

James Loras Breeden was born on April 16, 1936 in rural Maquoketa, Iowa to Jay and Ruth (Littlefield) Breeden.  He attended country school and then graduated from Maquoketa High School.  He married Sara Ann Clark on September 16, 1955 in Fulton, Iowa at the RLDS Church.

Jim worked as a farmhand for local farmers as well as owning his own farm later in life.  Throughout the years he had also worked as a carpenter, dairy deliveryman, and various factory jobs including at Alcoa and Clinton Engines.  Jim and Sara had also delivered the Sunday Quad City Times for over 15 years.

Jim enjoyed history, nature, gardening, planting trees, farming, and researching cemeteries involved with the Jackson County Pioneer Cemetery Association.   

Those left to honor his memory include children, Wayne Breeden of Clinton, IA, Sue Imming of Jefferson City, MO, Vickie (Bob) Anstey of Cumberland, IA, Diane (Jerry) Sneed of New Orleans, LA, and Shirley (Brad) Schmidt of Thornton, IA; a brother, Bob (Brenda) Breeden of Maquoketa, IA; 10 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sara on August 9, 2018, and a son John Loras Breeden on September 23, 1989.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed in his name to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Margaret C. Larson

Margaret C. Larson, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 12:02 p.m. on June 29th, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christin Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 12th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Family Cemetery.

Margaret was born on April 13, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Michael and Julia (Donovan) McClain and graduated from St. Joseph Academy.  She married Earl Larson on August 26, 1953, and he preceded her in death on July 2, 2020.  She worked at Sears until 1998 and then worked for Carpet One Carpet Shack and officially retired in 2016. Margaret was a cancer survivor and a member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church and a DAR Member.

She enjoyed reading and listening to the sound of rain. Margaret was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an incredibly strong woman; spending time with her family gave her much joy. She loved to cook for her family during all the holidays and she made sure that all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren each had a gift at Christmas.

She is survived by her children and their families:

Michele (Dan) Hoefer and their children, Sarah (Nick) Nelson with son Bohde, Michael (Liz) Hoefer with children Lauren, Makayla and Claire, Tony (Alina) Hoefer and their daughter Hazel, and Peter Hoefer and children Rayne, Zaiden and Silas.

Rebecca (Bruce) Cleland and their children, Kathryn (Nils Schongalla) Cleland, Emily Cleland and Ellen (Matthew Dragon) Cleland.

Christine (Mark) Asbury and their children Adam (Rachel) Asbury with children Aiden, James, William and Christopher, and Carla (Michael) Cloos with children Katherine, Alyssa and Nathan.

Nathan (fiancé Katherine Labarbera and her son Eugene) Larson and children Rachel Larson with children Ariavne and Ainsley, Hannah (Kyle) Harper with Charlie and Cameron, Joseph (Kelly) Larson and Madisyn, Julia (Scott Singer) Larson and Jacob (Morgan) Larson.

Jennifer Larson and son Levi French.

In-laws Jean McClain, Rosie McClain, and Bev Larson along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Mike and Julia McClain; father and mother-in-law Otto and Marguerite Larson; siblings: Earl (Phyllis) McClain, Delores (John) Pake, Grace McClain, Louis McClain, Ralph McClain, Marian (Bob) Dayton, Marie (Louis) Timp, Jean (Edward) Allen, Philip McClain

In lieu of flowers a Margaret Larson memorial fund will be established.

Mark J. McDonald

Mark J. McDonald, 54, of Dubuque, lost his battle with cancer on Monday, July 1, 2024, at the Harmony Care Facility Dubuque surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, July 8, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mark will be at 12:30 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

Mark was born January 15, 1970, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Jim and Gladys (Leibfried) McDonald. He attended Holy Trinity Grade School and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1988.

Mark worked at FDL in security and later at the Mystic Casino, now known as the Q Casino, in maintenance. He also cleaned at Capri College for many years.

Mark had a kind soul, he would talk to everyone, and had a quirky sense of humor. Facebook will be a lot less busy due to his passing, some of you may even miss his weather reports. In his younger years, he spent countless hours at Uncle Tom’s farm where he became an avid KDTH-AM radio listener. Mark also enjoyed watching reruns of old TV shows and movies and was a die-hard Chicago Bears fan.

Survivors include his mother, Gladys McDonald of Dubuque; four siblings, Kelly Mussehl of Dubuque; Carey (Larry) Schilling of Epworth, IA; Jay (Jean) McDonald of Dubuque; and Todd (Tara) McDonald of Dubuque; nine nieces and nephews, Erin (Shaun) Cavanaugh, Dillon (Catie) Hefel, Amy (Dan) Schroeder, Tyler Mussehl, Mallory (Chris Clewell), Molly, Kaity (Brandon Lewis), Meghan McDonald; and Hailey Schilling; five very special great-nieces and great-nephews; and a long-time friend, Robin Wright and her son, Nolan.

Mark was preceded in death by his dad, Jim and brother-in-law, Ron Mussehl.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Harmony Care Facility and Hospice of Dubuque for their great care given to Mark.

In lieu of plants and flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Holy Family Schools.

Michael J. Van Deusen

Michael J. Van Deusen of Bellevue, passed away on July 1, 2024, at Iowa City Hospitals and Clinics after an 18- year inspiring journey with Cancer.   Michael stubbornly fought all the challenges Cancer brought to him.

Graveside Services with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post # 273 will be 3:00 pm, Monday, July 8, 2024, in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue, with a Celebration of Life following Graveside Services from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm at Second Street Station in Bellevue.

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

Michael was born to CMSGT (ret) Clarence and Jean Ann “Gert” Van Deusen on October 9, 1958, in Liberty, New York.

The family relocated to Bellevue in 1969, and Michael graduated from Marquette Catholic High School with the Class of ’76.  After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving for eight years.  He worked with the Department of Defense Dependent School Systems as Director of Communications for the Far East extensively travelling the globe for his job.  After living on Okinawa for 17 years, he took a position with the government in Washington, D.C.  He retired returning to Bellevue in 2003.

Michael was an avid sports fan, as anyone who knew Michael could tell you, he could quote sports stats with the best of them. He enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears.  He even made special trips from Okinawa back to Bellevue in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, to watch the Marquette Mohawks at the state basketball tournaments.

Michael is survived by his mother, his sister Susan (Mike) Davids, his brother Richard Van Deusen, his nephew Justin Davids, his niece Kitty (Devin) McSparin, his great- nieces Gabriella Serrano and Lena McSparin, along with numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, his siblings Thomas Van Deusen and Shari Knotts, his paternal grandparents Corliss and Kathryn Van Deusen, and his maternal grandparents Fred and Marie Maiers along with many aunts and uncles.

The family would like to thank Dr. Tim King, Sandy and Michelle, Dr. Christine Holms, Dr. Jared Freiburger, Dr.  Eric Engleman, Dr. Bruce Obbink, Dr. Honorio Caceres, Dr. Mark Niemer and all the fantastic staff of Medical Associates, Mercy One, and Mercy One Cancer Center, as well as the staff of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for all their support of Michael during his journey.

There aren’t enough words of appreciation to say a very special thanks to Shannon and Matt Wedeking and family, and Rick (Hoot) and Beth Michels for all their support and assistance throughout the years. The family is very grateful!

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

Judith A. Simon

Judith Ann Simon, 80, of Peosta, formerly of Dubuque and Cascade, died Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Sunset Park Place Senior Living in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, July 7, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service followed by visitation until 6:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Judy will be 10:30 am Monday, July 8, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Peosta with Father Michael Schueller as the Celebrant. The family will receive friends from 9:00 am until 10:15 am before the Mass. Burial will be in St. Martin Cemetery in Cascade.

Judith was born December 18, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Oscar F. and Frances E. Lannon Burgmeyer. On May 21, 1966, she married Merlin E. Simon in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died April 18, 1998.

She was a 1962 graduate of Wahlert High School.

In 1988, she and her husband co-founded American-Iowa Manufacturing, a venture they managed together until his passing.

Judy was deeply involved in her community, serving as an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, where she dedicated herself to decorating the church’s gathering room. Her commitment extended to various organizations including Rotary, Optimist Club, TTT Chapter GX, and the Thunder Hills Golf Course, where she served on the board. She also contributed her time and passion to initiatives such as the Power of Prayer, Dubuque Arts Council’s Music in the Park, and the Dubuque Chorale. Additionally, she volunteered her compassionate support to Hospice of Dubuque, embodying a spirit of service that touched many lives. She was a gifted artist and enjoyed gardening. She loved animals, especially her cavapoo, Bentley, her favorite companion. She was also a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.

Survivors include three sons, Mark (Tina) Simon, David (Dana) Simon, and Shane (Patti) Simon, all of Cascade;  one granddaughter, Jordan; nine grandsons, Bryce (Regann Pfeiler), Brock, Dilan, Carter, Tanner, Travis, Chase, Evan (Karina), and Blake; in-laws, Jeanette (Paul) Kremer, Loras (Mary Ann) Simon, Marian (Dave) Armstrong, Lucy Sutherland, Matt (Jean) Simon, Lee (Connie) Simon, Tom (Sherry)Simon, Bob (Linda) Budden, Steve McElmeel, Luann Simon, and Sue Burgmeyer; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law, Emmet and Kathleen, one daughter-in-law, Tina Simon, two sisters, Lynn Burgmeyer and Joy Burgmeyer, one brother, Michael Burgmeyer, and in-laws, Marie, Doris, and Irwin.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Judy’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional care

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

Janice Kutsch

Janice Kutsch, 83, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, IA. The Furlong Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with services, which will be held later. 

She was born to Ernest and Dorothy Schumacher on September 11, 1940, in Galena. Janice was a 1958 graduate of Galena High School and received her Nursing license after attending Highland Community College. For many years, she worked as a lab technician and then as a nurse at the Galena-Stauss Nursing Home, where she retired.  She had a love for antique dolls. Throughout her life, she collected and sold dolls and enjoyed shopping for them on eBay and taking trips to flea markets.  Jan loved animals, especially her dog and faithful companion, Albie.

She is survived by her brother, James Schumacher; brother-in-law, Jerry Kieffer; nephews Matt Schumacher and Paul (Heather) Kieffer; nieces Megan (Casey) Kaiser and Amy (Tim) Hiller and many great-nieces and great-nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Dorothy; her stepfather, Bernard Peschang; her sister, Mary Ann Kieffer; and her sister-in-law, Pam Schumacher.

Her family would like to extend a special thank you to friend Ramona and her friends at the Coatsworth Center for their care and compassion over the last several years.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Deborah J. Deppe

Deborah J. Deppe, 56 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away on Saturday June 29, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

Public visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Wednesday July 3, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  A private funeral service will take place after the public visitation for immediate family and close friends.

Deborah was born on August 26, 1967, in Guttenberg, Iowa, the daughter of Howard “LeRoy” Hansel and Linda (Froelich) Hansel.  She married Carl Deppe on November 14th, 1986, and lived on a farm outside Petersburg, Iowa where they raised their three children. Deb taught preschool for many years before going on to graduate from NICC with a Certified Medical Assistant degree. Deb enjoyed playing softball, being with her grandkids, Sunday afternoon drives and was always up for an adventure. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy.

Survivors include her loving husband, Carl Deppe; children: Jeffrey (Lainey Kress) Deppe, Christina (Jordan) Soppe, Thomas Deppe; grandchildren: Rhett, Ember, & Briar Soppe; siblings: Kim Froehle, Julie Steger, Michelle Ingles; in-laws: Doris Soppe, Phyllis (Jim) Bries, Dan Deppe, Jim Deppe, Patricia (Joe) McDermott, Mary Kaye (Dick) Tucker, Laurie (Dan) Scherbring, Elaine (Dan) Klostermann, Diane (Randy) Reth, Lisa Deppe.

She was preceded in death by her father, father & mother-in-law Bill & Rosie Deppe; in-laws: Andy Soppe.

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.

Clinton O. White

Clinton O. White, 87, of Galena, IL, passed away Friday, June 28, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A funeral mass will be held at Noon on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of mass. The burial will be at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on January 28, 1937, in Apple River, IL, to Russel and Mildred (Wickler) White. Upon completing the 8th grade, Clinton started his farming and trucking career. On August 24, 1957, he was united in marriage to his wife, Elaine, at Nativity BVM Church, Menominee, IL. Clinton and Elaine raised their four children: Darrel, Karen, Joyce, and Mary Beth on a small farm in Galena, IL.

After retiring in 1999, Clinton spent most of his retired days attending events for his grandkids, “tinkering” in his shop and watching his beloved horses graze in the pastures. He had a passion for antique farming and was a proud supporter of “Echos of the Past” in Apple River for many years.

Clinton treasured his four grandkids: Nick, Alex, Megan, and Stephanie. He enjoyed steadfastly supporting their concerts, tournaments, 4-H fairs, and more in retirement with his wife.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; son, Darrel White; daughters, Karen White, Joyce (John) Wills, and Mary Beth Hyde, grandsons Nick (Kelsey) Hyde and Alex Hyde; granddaughters, Megan (Cody Heuer) Wills and Stephanie (Trevor) Mullin, his first great-granddaughter due in September, sister, Linda Van Gordon, and sister-in-law, Dawn White.

In addition to his parents, Clinton was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Albert and Theresa Erner; brothers, Tom, Jerry, and Terry White; sister, Kathy White; brothers-in-law, LeRoy Fields and RJ Spillane; sisters-in-law, Sandy White, Grace Fields, Judy White, and LaVonne Spillane, son-in-law, Patrick Hyde, nephews, Brian and Rusty White, and great nephew, Tylor White-Richardson.

Clinton had an innate ability to light up every room with his goofy humor. He welcomed everyone into his life with open arms and treated everyone as family. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of Dubuque or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank Deacon Jay for his many visits, and Hospice of Dubuque team, Jessica, Haley, Stephanie, and Melody, for the excellent care they have given him over the last eighteen months.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Timothy M. Mauer

Timothy M. “Tim” Mauer, age 84, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on June 28, 2024, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To honor Tim’s life, a Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, July 5, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West, 10204 Key West Drive in Dubuque, with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship for one hour prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tim’s family.

Tim was born on August 23, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Carl “Red” and Dora (Zuber) Mauer.  He was a good and decent man to his inner core and strived to enjoy the simple moments in life as he understood true joy was found in the humbleness of the day.  Tim possessed a strong work ethic and invested his time and talents at John Deere Dubuque Works before finally moving into retirement after his mission was complete.  In his free-time, Tim never passed up an opportunity to spend a relaxing afternoon on the golf course, but if his Hawkeye’s were playing, that was well known to be a perfect way to pass the time also.  He was an avid bowler as well and spent countless hours showing off his skills while visiting with his family and friends.  Tim was an amazing father and grandfather throughout his life.  His love and devotion to his family were continually on display and his enduring patience and compassion never wavered.  Tim gratefully  possessed an intrinsic and natural ability to play the role of father to many youngsters who crossed his path from time to time.  He proudly carried the title of “Dad” to numerous young men throughout the years and always graciously welcomed all into his home who needed nothing more than a solid and secure place to rest from the strife of the world outside.  But, again, at the end of the day, Tim’s happy place was simply sitting at the table with a hot coffee, or cold Pepsi with his freshly delivered newspaper in hand.  The complications of life were always kept at bay as much as possible and his heart and mind were continually focused on all that is good in this life.  We will miss Tim dearly and always treasure the legacy and lessons he leaves behind.  Thank you, Tim, for leading by example and may your rewards for intentionally living a life well lived be abundant as we wait to see your kind and generous soul once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tim include,

his wife,
Joanne (Mootz) Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Jolene (Mike) Raffensperger, Iowa City, IA,
and T.J. Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

his daughter-in-law,
Renee Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

special friend,
Lori Dee-Duve, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Michael Plumtree, Zachary Mauer, and Tara Mauer;

his great-granddaughter,
Aubrey Plumtree;

his first sister,
Diane Mauer Hetzler and Harold, Grays Lake, IL;

his sisters-in-law,
Janet Entringer, Dubuque, IA,
and Dorine Mauer, Dubuque, IA;

his niece,
Vicki Woodyard, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Carl “Red” and Dora (Zuber) Mauer; his mother and father-in-law, Delbert and Mary (Riley) Bringham; and his siblings, Ernest (Martha) Wilson, Rosemary (Jim) Glenn, Gloria (Dusty) Potter, Betty (Lee) Soppe, Georgeann “Rusty” (Joe) Felton, Butch Mauer, and Stan Mauer.

Tim’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care for all of their kind and compassionate care.

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

Victor R. Soat

Victor “Vic” Raymond Soat, 85, of Menominee, IL, passed away on Friday, June 28, 2024 peacefully at home.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Nativity BVM Parish and Holy Name Society will recite the rosary at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday. There will be an additional visitation from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday at the church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday at Nativity B.V.M. Church in Menominee, with Fr. Ediberto Jarapa officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by members of East Dubuque American Legion Post # 787.

Victor was born on February 26, 1939 in East Dubuque, IL, the son of Henry A. and Irene C. (Opgenhafen) Soat. He met his future wife, Esther L. Wubben at Moonlight Gardens Dance Hall in Menominee and they were united in marriage on July 21, 1962 at Nativity B.V.M. Church at Menominee.

Vic served in the U.S. Army from 1957 – 1959 where he was stationed in Germany. Vic worked most of his professional life at John Deere Dubuque Works from 1964 – 1995 where he worked in a variety of departments including flame cutting, tool grinding, and inspection. After retiring from John Deere, he enjoyed working as a greenskeeper at The Meadows golf course, The Sinsinawa Dominican Motherhouse, and Enterprise Rental Car.

Victor served many years on the Nativity B.V.M. Holy Name Society as well as a volunteer fireman for both the East Dubuque and Menominee-Dunleith fire departments.  He was also a former member of U.A.W. Local # 94.

Throughout his years, Victor enjoyed: Snowmobiling, Deer Hunting, & Card Club with close friends. Victor & Esther continued their card club with friends for over 50 years. He also greatly enjoyed fishing & golfing with friends and family, coaching his sons in baseball as kids and softball later as they grew older.  Additionally, he was experienced at woodworking – making dozens of handmade beanbag sets & personalized birdhouses for friends and family.   He also treasured watching the Packers & Cubs as well as the Galena Pirates & River Ridge Wildcats games and drama performances.

Victor most enjoyed spending time with his 5 kids, 10 grandkids and 6 great grandkids. His heart was truly full with visits from his family who will always be amazed by his “match trick” performed at birthday parties at the house.

Victor is survived by his wife of 62 years Esther; sons, Marty (Julie Scott) Soat, Tim (Tami Wheelwright) Soat, Andrew (Jennifer Moser) Soat, and Ben (Christine Flack) Soat all of Galena, and a daughter Tina Soat of Menominee; grandchildren, Tori (Mark) Weber of Grimes, IA, Taylor (Zac) Ozee of Galena, Makenzie Soat and fiancé Bryton Melenas of Dallas, TX, Riley Soat, Gage Soat, Evan Soat, Caleb Soat, Conner Soat, Caitlyn Soat, & Cullen Soat all of Galena; great grandchildren, Cael, Trey, Hayden, Zane & Clara Ozee and Theo Weber; sister-in-law, Dorothy Soat, brother-in-law, Cy Schulting, sisters-in-law, Janet Valder and Joyce Honkamp, brothers-in-law, Carl (Pat) Wubben, Tom (Terri) Wubben, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Dasenbrook and Elizabeth (Earle) Peters, and brother-in-law Robert (Diana) Wubben; and many nieces and nephews.

Victor was preceded in death by his parents, sister & brother-in-law, Bertilla (Jerry) Westemeier, brother & sister-in-law Elmer (Helen) Soat, Merlin (Marlene) Soat, and brother Bernard Soat as well as sister-in-law Kay (Erwin) Schneider, Dorothy (Tom) Schlueter, Carol Schulting, brothers-in-law Michael Valder, Arnold Honkamp and James Halsey.

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

Marie E. Dierks

Marie Ella Dierks, 93, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on June 26, 2024, at Eagle’s Trace Senior Living in Houston, Texas.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, July 5th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a Rosary to be said by Jim Foust at 5:45 p.m.

Catholic Mass and Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 6th, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

Marie was born on October 17, 1930, in Bellevue, Iowa at the family farm, the second daughter and third child of James C. and Catherine C. (Entringer) Dunne. She attended two years of business school in Dubuque and later received her GRI (Graduate, REALTOR® Institute) and CRS (Certified Residential Specialist).

Marie was an accomplished and passionate real estate agent. She was first licensed in 1979 in New Hampshire before moving to Texas in 1983. At the peak of her career, Marie was recognized as the #1 real estate agent at Coldwell Banker either regionally or at the state level during a five-year period spanning 1991 to 1995. She worked at Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate before retiring at 85 years old, when she could no longer drive at her preferred speed.

She was united in marriage to her loving husband Robert O. Dierks on July 20, 1959, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Dubuque. They resided in Iowa, before work brought them to Wichita, Kansas; Amherst, New Hampshire; and Spring, Texas, where they lived together the longest.

Marie was active with her Church and civic communities throughout her life. She was the longtime primary sponsor of the July Fourth parade and fireworks show in Northwest Houston. With her husband, her philanthropy included the Church, education, and medicine. She was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and a devoted follower of Duke Blue Devil basketball.

Marie is survived by her husband Robert; sons Stephen and Michael; daughters-in-laws Leslie and Suein Hwang, and grandchildren Henning, Graeme, Kaya, and Kian.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Martin Dunne and William Dunne, both of Dubuque, and sister Geraldine Foust of Zwingle, Iowa.