Obituaries Archive

Gerald R. Pickel

Richard Marricle

Richard Marricle, 86, of Cascade, IA, formerly of Plano, TX, passed away on Wednesday, May  28, 2025, at Stonehill Health Center.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date at Restland Memorial Park in Dallas, TX.

Richard was born to Alton and Bessie (Dieter) Marricle on June 16, 1938, in Goldthwaite, TX,  and raised in Wichita Falls. He graduated from Wichita Falls High School in 1956 and went on  to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Texas Tech University in 1961, where he was  a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.

Richard met Janice Beaty on a blind date in Spur, TX, in the summer of 1960. They were  married on September 15, 1962, at Highland Park Presbyterian Church and made their first home in Dallas. In 1962, he joined the US Army Reserve, and served until his honorable discharge in 1968. Also in 1962, he entered the J.C. Penney Company management training  program. Richard spent the next 36 years with J.C. Penney in various positions, including store manager and regional merchandising manager. Between 1964 and 1981, the family relocated  seven times to five different states. Richard was transferred to Texas in his final job related move and settled in Plano, where he and Jan remained for the next 30 years. He retired in 1998 as the manager of the Six Flags J.C. Penney store in Arlington, TX.

In 2010, Richard and Jan moved to Cascade, IA, to be near their daughter Kristine and her family. His beloved wife passed away in 2014.

Richard kept busy reading, tending his roses, and following his favorite sports teams, with his Labrador Retriever, Pinky, never far from his side. He was thrilled to see the Texas Rangers finally win a World Series, and waited in vain for the Cowboys to make another Super Bowl run. He loved road trips, fast cars, and taking the back roads. His last adventure took him west to South Dakota, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana in his red Corvette.

Richard is survived by his daughter Kristine (Dean) Pfab of Bernard, his grandchildren Matthew and Michael Pfab, Elizabeth (Philippe de La Soujeole) Bruce and Emily Bruce, and his great grandchildren Isla and Augustine de La Soujeole.

He was preceded in death by his parents Alton and Bessie, his wife Janice, his daughter Karen Bruce, and his sister Patricia.

Richard requested that memorials be given to the American Cancer Society, J.C. Penney National HCSC Foundation, or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to express their thanks and gratitude to the Nurses and Staff at Stonehill  Health Center and to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and kindness.

Rita K. Kelly

Rita Kay Kelly, 72, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, after a courageous seven year battle with cancer, fighting until the very end.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, June 5, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rita will be at 10:30 am on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rita was born January 1, 1953, in Centerville, IA, the daughter of Curtis and Mildred Green. As a cheerleader at Indian Hills College in Centerville, Rita met a baseball player from Dubuque named Mike Kelly. They were united in marriage on September 14, 1974 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque. Rita worked at Flexsteel Industries for 30+ years until her retirement.

Rita was the most caring, compassionate, and loving mother/grandma you could ask for. Her kids will always remember that she refused to sleep until they were home for the night! Rita was the proud grandma to Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan. She was at every softball game, basketball game, dance recital, and play performance. The grandkid sleepovers where she got all the lunch table gossip always made her smile. She never judged, just listened and comforted. Although she was taken from us much too soon, the impact she had on our family will never be forgotten. We love you Mom and know you’ll always be waiting for us.

Survivors include her two children, Timothy (Elizabeth) Kelly and Crissy (Jeff) Adams; four grandchildren, Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan; one brother, Barry (Diane) Green; and three nieces and one nephew.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; parents, Curtis and Mildred; and a brother, Dean.

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

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially, Kristina, Karla, and Amy for their loving care and guidance.

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

Capt. William L. Crews

Capt. William Lloyd Crews, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on May 26, 2025, at Sunset Park Place.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Military Honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post #6 and the United States Marine Corps. William will be honorably laid to rest at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

William was born on August 19, 1943, in Dayton, Ohio, to Jack M. and Elizabeth F. (Green) Crews. He graduated from Clinton High School in 1961. A childhood polio survivor, Dad went on to lead an extraordinary and multifaceted life. Over the years, he worked as an underwater welder, at Central Steel, the Johnson Space Center, for Hess Corporation, and with the United States Postal Service. He had a lifelong passion for working on cars—he loved “turning wrenches”—and was an avid baseball player from his youth into adulthood, even participating in farm leagues.

In 1964, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving as a paratrooper infantry soldier in Alaska before attending and completing Officer Candidate School in 1965–1966. He then served as an Infantry Platoon Leader in Vietnam’s Ia Drang Valley with the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, where he was wounded in combat (shot twice). During his second tour in Vietnam, he completed flight school and flew L-19/O-1 Bird Dog reconnaissance aircraft.

After leaving the Army in 1973, he returned to active duty in 1977 with the United States Marine Corps. He resigned his commission as a Captain, accepted the rank of Staff Sergeant, and was assigned to the 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He completed dive school in San Diego, California, and underwent advanced training in Quantico, Virginia. His military career was cut short after a severe injury during a night parachute training jump, leading to his medical separation.

Throughout his service, he was awarded numerous honors, including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star with “V” device, Air Medal, Scuba Badge, Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia, AR AV Badge with three overseas tours, Pistol Sharpshooter Badge, and Rifle Expert Badge.

William is survived by his sons Scott Crews, William “Bill” Crews, and Tim Crews, twelve grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, nephew Rob Doe, and niece Abby Doe.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sister Phyllis Doe.

Helen L. Ward

Helen Lucille Ward, 91, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held. Burial will be in Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Helen was born on May 15, 1934, in Dubuque, the daughter of Nicholas and Charlotte (Droese) Miller She married William (Doc) C. Ward on Friday, August 13, 1954, and he preceded her in death on March 31, 2014.

Mom loved to cook and sew and loved a great game of cards and family gatherings. She embroidered many tablecloths which will be cherished for years to come. She was especially proud that she made all the bridesmaid dresses for Cindy’s wedding. She enjoyed the trips with dad and was lucky at winning Bingo’s in Las Vegas and wherever she played.

She was a devoted wife and mother and was especially fond of her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She will be forever missed.

Survivors include her two children: Cynthia (Gary) Riniker of Bernard, IA and William J. (Janet) Ward of Tucson, Arizona; three grandchildren: Leann (Michael) Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Joseph Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin, and Lisa Riniker of Dubuque, IA; nine great grandchildren: Michael and Henry Pursell of Clarksville, Tennessee, Maleah and Chasity Riniker of Janesville, Wisconsin, Grace and Wesley Riniker of Evansville, Wisconsin,  Kailee DeMoss of Monmouth, IA, Wyatt DeMoss and Evelynn Riniker of Dubuque, Iowa. Her two sisters: Marion Wiezorek and Jean Rubie; her brother Ronald Miller; sister-in-law Marlene Troy and a special niece Brenda Leib McChristy along with many nieces and nephews.

Helen was preceded in death by her parents Nicholas and Charlotte; her husband William; a son Michael Ward; five brothers, John, James, Lavern, Edward, and Robert Miller; two sisters Jane Palm and Betty Billmeyer and four infant siblings, Loretta, William and twins Carolyn and Marilyn Miller; and several brother and sister in laws.

Helen’s family would like to thank Luther Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all their care.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Helen’s memory.

Sr. Mary Corita Heid, RSM

Sister Mary Corita Heid, RSM, died peacefully surrounded by her family and a Sister of Mercy on May 28, 2025 at the convent of the Presentation Sisters in Dubuque, IA.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, 2025, at Sacred Heart Chapel, Mt. Loretto Convent 2360 Carter Rd, Dubuque, IA 52001. Gathering for family and friends will begin at 9:30 a.m. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

The daughter of Orie Edward and Florence McClain Heid, Lucille (affectionately called Poochie) was born in Pocahontas, IA on May 25, 1937.  She was “the oldest of the five youngest” in the family’s 10 children.

Lucille entered the Religious Sisters of Mercy (RSM) in Detroit, MI on September 7, 1957 and professed her final vows there on August 18, 1965.  After her novitiate she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mercy College of Detroit, a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of Iowa and, later in life, certification as a spiritual director from St. Joseph Educational Center Institute of Spiritual Guidance.

After beginning her ministry as a nurse, Sister Corita quickly moved into administration in Mercy Hospitals in Iowa and Michigan.  She served as assistant administrator at St. Joseph Mercy Hospitals in Sioux City, IA and in Ann Arbor, MI; administrator at Mercy Medical Center, Dubuque, IA and St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Mason City, IA.  Later she became President and CEO in Dubuque then President and CEO of the Sisters of Mercy Health Corporation headquartered in Farmington Hills, MI.  From 1994 to 2015 she served as Full-time Trustee for Mercy Health Network of Iowa.  A publication of MercyOne North Iowa described  Sister Corita as “a mentor and confidant to many chief executive officers and leaders.”

In 2006 she received the Outstanding Alumni Award from the University of Iowa, College of Public Health.  She published several professional articles including “Getting Ready to Govern” in Chicago Trustee (2013) and “Urban Hospitals: Their Plight and Mission” in the Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal, available at https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfmedjournal/vol40/iss1/19.

Sister Corita was a deeply spiritual woman with a warm sense of humor and an infectious laugh.  From 1998 until shortly before her death, she lived in Mason City, IA and was a spiritual director/companion to many while continuing to serve on health care boards for several religious congregations in the U.S. and Canada.  She also served on committees for the Religious Sisters of Mercy including the Detroit Community’s response to Pope Francis’ invitation to send input to the Vatican Synod.

Sister Corita is survived by her siblings Marge (Dave) Ipsan, Nancy (Bob) Garretson and Lori (Richard, deceased) Wignall and sister-in-law Sharon Heid.

She was preceded in death by her parents Orie and Florence Heid and siblings, June (Emmett) Lawler, Jenny (Don) Davis, Joan (Bob) Davis, Lavonne (Matt) Ward, Jack Heid, Kenny Heid, and numerous loving nieces and nephews, grand and great grand nieces and nephews.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, IA is assisting the family.

John P. Ernst

John Peter Ernst, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, May 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A private memorial service will be held later according to John’s wishes. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

John was born on March 28, 1960, in Bellevue, Iowa, the son of Richard and Dorothy Ernst. He honorably served in the United States Marine Corps for ten years. He was a self-employed carpenter for many years. Later, for fourteen years, he was an over-the-road semi tractor driver. He enjoyed hunting, classical music, four wheeling, and most of all spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and his many nieces and nephews.

Surviving are his best friend and love of his life, Lizzy Peterson, his children Dan (Susie) Ernst and their children Paige, Ashton, Quinton, and Rowan, Missy Ernst of DeWitt and her children Kaylee and Lilly, and Mathew (Danielle) Ernst of Monmouth and their children Harper and Ripley.

Also surviving are his siblings Nancy (Larry) Schwager of Bellevue, Paul (Sandi) of Dubuque, Leonard (Marge) of Bellevue, Tom (Diane) of DeWitt, Bill, and Ron, both of Bellevue.

He was preceded in death by his parents and Mary Carlson.

Julitta M. Rokusek

Julitta “Jill” M. Rokusek, 95, of Dubuque, died Friday, May 30, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jill will be at 10:00 am on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Julitta was born April 1, 1930, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Oscar and Florence (Bode) Slaats. She married John “Jack” J. Rokusek on July 5,1952. They were the proud parents of three daughters, Jan Marie, Jeralyn “Jeri”, and Jolene, and one son, Jay. Jack preceded her in death in 2018, and Jay in 1986.

There are not many people in the Dubuque area that Jill did not know. So many of you have touched Jill’s life in a positive way and she graced you with hers–her presence brought an energy that made it clear that “Jill was in the building.” Jill lived faithfully, loved deeply and gave generously. She led a very fulfilling life and was most uplifted if there was something she said or did that brought a smile to your face, made you laugh, or just made you feel good about yourself.

She was an active member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She was one of the first to be installed as Eucharistic Minister, and also ministered to the elderly and shut-ins. She was also a cross bearer at funerals. Jill was a member of the Alter and Rosary Society, a mentor at Holy Trinity School, and a member of the Seven Sisters Apostolate. She was active in the Prayer Line of the Holy Spirit Parish. Jill was also an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for over 60 years. She attended mass daily, and if she could not get to church, she watched mass on TV.

Jill was known as the “Hat Lady of Dubuque and Tri-States.” She enjoyed presenting “Creative Hat and Fashion Shows” for over 40 years. One of her highlights was presenting a hat show at the Governor’s Mansion in Des Moines, IA. Her biggest joy was giving all of her proceeds to charity, especially to Rev. Thomas Vos, a former pastor of Holy Trinity Catholic Church who built the first Catholic church in the Appalachian Mountains.

In her early years, Jill tap-danced with her three daughters and performed in several shows. Her love for tapping resurfaced as she tapped with musical performers at Stonehill.

Survivors include her three daughters, Jan Mussmann of Guttenberg, IA, Jeri (Terry) Noonan of Edmond, OK, and Jolene (Dave) Goedken of Potosi, WI; three grandchildren, Michelle Spadin, Angie Spadin, and Casey (Nikki) Noonan; two great-grandchildren, Alexis and Zachary Friedley; and two brothers, Merlin (Doris) Slaats, and Roger (Mary) Slaats.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; son; one brother, Guerdon (Donna) Slaats; one sister, Betty (Jerome) Kuepers; one brother-in-law, Cletus (Germaine) Rokusek; and father- and mother-in-law, John and Lucille Rokusek.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name.

Jill’s family would like to extend a special Thank You to all of those who have had a positive presence in her life.

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

Thomas J. Becker

Thomas J. “Tom” Becker, age 80, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on May 26, 2025, at MercyOne in Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Tom’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tom’s family.

Tom was born on December 9, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Joseph and Margaret (Leppert) Becker.

A man of strength and dedication, Tom was the foundation of his family. He worked tirelessly throughout his life, often holding two jobs to ensure his family never went without. His work ethic was unmatched, but he never let it get in the way of what mattered most to him, his loved ones.

Tom had a gift for cooking that brought the family together around the table. Whether it was a holiday feast or a simple dinner, the meals he prepared were truly made with love.

Tom had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and found joy in hunting and fishing, a passion he loved sharing with his children and grandchildren. He also had a deep love for country music, which reflected his values of strong family ties, love, and hard work.

Throughout the years, he loved watching and attending NASCAR races and cheering for his favorite driver, Bill Elliott. His love for family extended beyond everyday moments to countless vacations and memorable trips.

Tom had a natural warmth and loved a good conversation, able to talk to anyone he encountered. He was always ready to share a story or lend a hand.

He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a cherished friend, a loyal brother, and a wonderful grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved his wife, Lois, with all his heart, and they were married for nearly 60 years. Being a father and grandfather was one of the greatest joys of Tom’s life.

Known for his honesty and fairness, Tom’s genuine spirit touched the hearts of many. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Those left to cherish the memory of Tom include,

his two sons,
Brian (Tammy) Becker, Dubuque, IA,
and Randy (Michelle) Becker, Mitchell, S.D.;

his six adored grandchildren,
Adam (Chloe) Becker, Autumn (Tyler) Ernzen, Dakota Becker, Alyssa Becker, Kira Hunter, and Nathan Hunter;

his four great-grandchildren,
Ozzie Ernzen, Gianna Becker, Isabella Becker, and Gabby Becker;

his sister,
Kathy (Merlin) Dalsing, Hazel Green, WI;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife of almost 60 years, Lois Becker; and his brother, David (Ginnie) Becker.

Tom’s family would like to thank Dr. Finch, along with the nurses and staff at Mercy Hospital, especially Shelly, for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Larry J. Bramer

Larry J. Bramer, 80 of Baldwin, Iowa died on Thursday May 29, 2025 at the VA Hospital Hospice in Des Moines, Iowa.

Larry John Bramer was born on May 29, 1945, in Maquoketa, Iowa to Lyle and Viola Bramer.  He grew up on a farm in Monmouth, Iowa.  He graduated from Midland High School in 1963 & University of Northern Iowa in 1972 with a degree in Business and Marketing. After high school Larry enlisted in the Air Force in 1964 and spent time in the Philippines and Vietnam during the Vietnam war. Larry married Linda Wallroff on August 22, 1970, at Baldwin Catholic Church. They together had 2 children, Brian and Kimberly.  They later divorced.

Larry worked for International Harvester in Des Moines and Bettendorf until 1978.  He then bought into a partnership with Dostal & Waters Implement in Maquoketa, Iowa until 1986.  He then went on to work for Ron Mohr farms for several years and was also the director of Jackson County Veterans Affairs for 18 years in Maquoketa, Iowa until he retired in 2000.

Larry was also a member of Lubben Kegley Post 513 of Baldwin, Iowa. He had a passion for Nascar and his favorite driver Jeff Gordon.  He took things a step further and decided to take on racing his own car for many years with Jess Shady and Logan Marr in Maquoketa.  He loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his kids/grandkids and great grandkids.

Those left to honor Larry’s memories are his children: Brian (Tracy) Bramer, Monmouth, IA, Kimberly Bramer, Maquoketa, IA.  His siblings: Carol Ann Mitten, Auroa, CO, Terry (Airene) Bramer, Mt. Vernon, IA, Nancy (Charlie) Updegraff, Cedar Rapids, IA, Gary Bramer, Baldwin, IA. There are 6 grandchildren: Sasha (Chris), Brittney, Dakota, Timothy, Brilee, Kailee(Trevor), Cayden (Jaeden) and 6 great grandchildren: Alivia, Brooklyn, Remington, Nayvee, Ledger, Blaze and his prize possession, “Sammy” the cat.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother-in-law Alan Mitten.

A celebration of Larry’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A memorial visitation will be held prior to the service from 9 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial with military honors will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery, followed by a luncheon at Franzen’s shop on Hwy 64 in Monmouth, IA.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy a Larry J. Bramer memorial fund has been established.

Online condolences may be left at WWW.Carsonsandsons.com.

Owen S. Skott

Owen S. Skott, 80, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at home.

Owen Steven Skott was born on November 16, 1944, in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Oskar T. and Camilla M. (Owen) Skott.  He grew up on the family farm half a mile south of the Buckhorn Creamery.  Owen helped with the farming operation and eventually moved to the Imagine The Possibilities Home in Maquoketa.

Owen was a very gentle and kind person.  He enjoyed working at the recycling and assembling jobs at Imagine The Possibilities.  He also enjoyed traveling with his friends at Imagine The Possibilities, especially his trips to Branson, Missouri, and was a huge Iowa Hawkeyes fan.

Those left to honor his memory include a brother, Craig Skott of Clear Lake, IA; and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

LeRoy J. Robey

LeRoy J. Robey, 85, of Dubuque died Tuesday, May 27, 2025.  Visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, June 2, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road, followed by a funeral service Monday at 11:00 a.m. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

LeRoy was born January 13, 1940 in Dubuque, son of Kirtland and Pearl (Witter) Robey.

LeRoy grew up in Dubuque. He spent many years living in ARC group homes, Dubuque Specialty Care, and most recently at Sunnycrest Manor. He was a joyful, happy man who made friends easily and was much loved by all who knew him.

He attended Dubuque Community Church.

LeRoy loved going fishing with his fishing buddies, Jim Potter and Carl Sieverson.

He is survived by nieces and nephews.

LeRoy was preceded in death by his brothers, Stanley and Harlan Robey; and sisters, Marigold Patters, Adele Knuckle, and Lila Marshall.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Sunnycrest Manor for their wonderful care and making LeRoy “one of the family.”

Nancy H. Maury

Nancy Hope (Neises) Maury passed quietly in her home on May 28th, 2025, under the care of her husband of 45 years, Dennis Elbert Maury and her eldest daughter, Terry Lynn Holloway, both of Lancaster, WI.  To honor Nancy’s life, a graveside service will be held at St. Charles Cemetery in Cassville, WI, at a later date.

She is survived by her daughters,
Kelly Marie Holloway of Quincy, IL,
and Hope Lee (Rob) Breuer of Neillsville, WI,

her son,
John Joseph (Linda) Holloway of Gastonia, NC.

her sister,
Joan Neises, Lancaster, WI;

She is also survived by two nieces, a nephew, several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She was preceded by her parents, Joseph and Florence Neises of Cassville; her father and mother-in-law, Elbert (Ruth) Maury; her granddaughter, Trista Mumm; her great-granddaughter, Natalee Jo Mumm; and her brother-in-law, Dan Maury.

She was a loving mother and devoted wife.  She will be missed and never forgotten.

Online condolences for Nancy’s family and friends may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Sharon Loewen

Sharon “Bunny” Loewen, 88, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Sunday, May 25, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Visitation will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at a later date in Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque, IA.

Bunny was born on May 1, 1937, in Dubuque, IA to Leo and Loraine (Lyttle) Baumann. She attended Holy Trinity grade school and graduated from the Immaculate Conception Academy in 1955, both in Dubuque. She Married Aloysius “Fritz” Loewen on June 29, 1957.

She worked at the Dubuque Packing Company before she became a stay-at-home mom. She later became a part owner of the Yarn Over Shoppe before retiring. She enjoyed her daily trips to the casino with Fritz and her grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband Fritz, a daughter Lori (Randy) Childers; grandchildren, Lindsay (Jake) Majerus, Adam (Ashley) Childers; great-grandchildren, Landon and Reese Majerus, Aiden and Autumn Childers; sister Karen Nickolas; and nephew, Arnie Nickolas.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Loraine Baumann; brothers-in-law, Arnold Nickolas, Don (Mary) Hocking, Carl (Anna Mae) Loewen, Maury (Shirley) Loewen, Clarence (Elaine) Loewen.

The family would like to thank the staff at Home Instead Healthcare and Jamie and Ann with Hospice of Dubuque.

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon

Connie Elvira Ann Bunyon, a beacon of pure love and joy, graced this earth for a brief but impactful eight months. Born in Iowa City, Iowa on September 4, 2024 to the loving arms of her parents, Roger Travis-Xavier and Denise Christina (Riniker) Bunyon, Connie was a cherished gift to all who knew her. She inherited not only her name from her beloved paternal grandmother Connie and her aunt Elvira but also their spirit of resilience and courage. She has two special birthday buddies, her Uncle Danny & Grandpa Alvin who were also born on Sept. 4th. On May 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family, Connie passed away in Iowa City, Iowa, due to complications from Trisomy 18.

From the moment of her birth, brought immeasurable happiness to her family. Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she met each day with strength and determination, teaching those around her the true meaning of perseverance.

Connie’s parents, Roger and Denise, along with her extended family, cherished every moment spent with her. She was a constant reminder of the preciousness of life and the bonds that tie us together.

Connie is survived by her parents, Roger and Denise Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA; siblings, Andre, Sadie, and Elizabeth Bunyon of Maquoketa, IA, and Ishmael, Isaiah, Xavier, Roger II, and Tre Bunyon of CO; maternal grandmother, Martha Riniker of Maquoketa, IA; maternal great aunt Elvira (Fred) Donovan of DeWitt, IA. Maternal Uncle Danny (Jenny Wisco) Riniker of Maquoketa, IA, Paternal aunt Theresa (Larry) Aragon-Patrick, Ricki Morris, Becky Aragon all of Colorado, Paternal Uncles Vince (Kayleen) Aragon of Maquoketa, Iowa, and Clayton “June Bug” Bunyon of Colorado. Uncle Bob and Uncle Vern of Colorado. And many cousins and very special loved ones.

She was preceded in death by a sister Edna Ann Bunyon, a great grandmother Edna Doty, a grandma Connie Whitley, a grandpa Keith Wilson, a grandpa Clayton Bunyon, an uncle Kenny and several other family members.

Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery.

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