Obituaries Archive

Patricia C. Frey

Patricia “Pat” C. Frey, 81, of Dubuque passed away at MercyOne Dubuque on Tuesday, June 6, 2024.

Visitation will be held Sunday June 9, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with a rosary service at 12:45 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd Dubuque. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 10, 2024, at Holy Spirit Church, Holy Trinity Parish with Rev. Jeff Frieden officiating. The burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Pat was born on March 17, 1943, in Dubuque to Carl and Monetta (Wilhelm) Pickel.

She was a part of the first graduating class of Wahlert High School. She worked as a secretary for Flynn Ready Mix for 33 years before retiring.

Pat loved playing Duplicate Bridge and was a “Grand Master”, a huge Cubs fan, she also loved reading, movies with Nikki, family gatherings, TV dramas, and hot fudge sundaes. Pat was also an avid church goer and often said the rosary with friends.

She is survived by her children, Nicolette “Nikki” (Steve) Kennedy of Dubuque, David (Nancee) Frey of Bloomington IL, and Jeremy Frey of Dubuque; grandchildren Jennifer (Mike) Nethery, Jodi (Casey) Stelken, Jerrod Croft, Marissa Cornell, Morgan Cornell, Allison (Clayton) Hamilton, Zach (Carly) Frey, Jace (Casper) Frey; nine great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Pat is preceded in death by her parents and brother Carl “Butch” Pickel Jr.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to express a thank you to all of Pat’s friends, caregivers, and extended Assisi family.

Pauline R. Allendorf

Pauline R. Allendorf, age 82, of Galena, IL, completed her earthly journey on June 5, 2024.  To honor Pauline’s life, a private family service is being held.  Burial will be in the Greenwood Cemetery in Galena.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Pauline’s family.

Pauline was born on March 5, 1942, in Galena, IL, a daughter to Earl E. and Ethel (Sanderson) Green.  She was united in marriage to Gerald Allendorf on August 19, 1961.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Pauline include,

her loving husband of 63 years,
Gerald Allendorf, Galena, IL;,

her three children,
Keith Allendorf, Scales Mound, IL,
Leanne (Dave) Heffernan, Galena, IL,
and Wayne Allendorf, Scales, Mound, IL;

her six adored grandchildren,
Danielle Benson, Dustin (Nicole) Allendorf, Chad (Lexie) Allendorf, Cody Allendorf, Jesse Allendorf, and Cole Allendorf;

and her four great-grandchildren.

Pauline’s family would like to thank Dr. Hernandez, along with the nurses and staff at the Medical Associates Clinic, Midwest Senior Care, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sidney W. Scott

Sidney William Scott, 81, of Dubuque, passed away June 3, 2024, after living with Alzheimer’s dementia for the past few years. Sid was born on December 8, 1942 to Ralph and Helen (Bean) Scott in Galesburg, IL. He was united in marriage to Janice (Smith) Scott on August 20, 1966 in Peoria, IL. They moved from Peoria to Dubuque in 1977. Janice served as his primary caregiver for the last years of his life.

Sid earned a degree in studio art from Illinois State University in 1968 and an MBA from Bradley University in 1977. His 50+ year career included leadership positions in art, marketing, public relations, and organizational development for three media corporations–The Peoria Journal Star, Tazwell Publishing, and Woodward Communications, Inc. (WCI)– and he served as the business manager for Mercy Radiologists for several years. Simultaneously, Sid ran two one-man businesses: Scott Graphics in the early years and Scott Consultants, LLC from the mid-1980s on. He also served as an adjunct faculty member at the Beyster Institute, Rady School of Business, UC-San Diego, UW-Platteville, UW-Madison, Clarke College, and Cardinal Stritch College. Sid retired from WCI in 2008 as the VP of Human Resources. He was the author of over 200 articles in national and local trade publications and made over 100 presentations at meetings of the Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) Association, the National Center for Employee Ownership (NCEO), the Inland Press Association, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the American Society of Training and Development. From 1994 to 2006, Sid served on the board of NCEO, serving as co-chair for the last two years, and he was a founding officer and President of the ESOP Association’s Nebraska-Iowa chapter. Sid was especially proud of his instrumental role in helping WCI become a 97% employee-owned corporation. After retiring, he joined the WCI Board of Directors, serving as its chair from 2012-2016.

From 1964 to 1970, Sid served in the Illinois Army National Guard as a Specialist E-5. In the last years of his life he was especially keen to revisit cherished memories of this time, including his active duty in the Chicago Riots of 1968 after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King. In both Peoria and Dubuque, Sid was an engaged citizen who participated in community service and fundraising activities for a long list of organizations including (but not limited to) American Red Cross, United Way, Multiple Sclerosis Society, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Dubuque Area Large Employers Health Care Coalition, First Congregational Church- United Church of Christ, Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Rotary, Dubuque Museum of Art, Dubuque Chorale, Northeast Iowa School of Music, and the Dubuque chapter of PFLAG. In 2003, he was selected by Iowa Governor Vilsack to serve a six-year term on the Iowa Health Facilities Council.

The contribution for which Sid will be most fondly remembered by his family and many friends is his musicianship. As a teenager in the heyday of early rock and roll, “Bill” caught the bug. He took a few years of lessons but was a mostly self-taught musician who could pick up any instrument and play it. Primarily a keyboardist, he was in several bands over the years, including The Misfits in the 1960s and most recently, Sid V and the Human Resources, which was formed at his WCI retirement party and went on to play regional gigs for 15 years. Music was Sid’s happy place and he kept to the keyboard until just a few days before he passed.

Sid is survived by his wife, Janice; his children, Britain Scott (Russ Lake) of Hudson, WI, Erin Scott of Woodbury, MN, and Ryan Scott of Dubuque; grandchildren Renn Elkins of St. Paul, MN and Sylvie Lake of Hudson, WI; his brother Steve (Joan) Scott of El Paso, IL and nephews Matt (Nikki) Scott and Michael Scott, both of Illinois.

Sid’s family would like to offer special thanks to Home Instead care providers and Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory. Kindly direct any memorials to the Alzheimer’s Association, the National Museum of the United States Army, or First Congregational Church-United Church of Christ in Dubuque.

The family is planning a celebration of Sid’s life in late July. Details about the date and venue will be forthcoming on social media.

Kenneth B. Mulgrew

Kenneth Bernard Mulgrew, 85, of Pella IA, formerly of East Dubuque, IL peacefully passed away Tuesday June 4, 2024 at home surrounded by his loving family.

A visitation for friends and family will be held on Saturday June 8th from 9-11 a.m. at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, followed by an 11:30 a.m.  Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary’s church, with Rev. Msgr. Daniel Knepper officiating. Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery.

Ken was born on January 2, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence and Helen (Schulting) Mulgrew. Ken married his high school sweetheart Gayle Utzig on June 21, 1958.

He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School, the class of 1957. Ken retired after 40 years of management with the Dubuque Packing company and 10 years of management at Farmland Foods.

Surviving is his wife Gayle, children Scott Mulgrew & Tina, Shelley (Mulgrew) Beecher & Gary, Troy Mulgrew & Sharon, Lance Mulgrew & Deb, Shauna (Mulgrew) Ramsdell & Jay, 15 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents Helen & Clarence, and his brother Dallas.

Kenny loved spending time with his family, especially boating, hunting and playing euchre. We will be forever grateful that we had him in our lives. He will be missed dearly.

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

William E. Spiegel

William E. “Billy” Spiegel, age 81, of Epworth, IA, completed his earthly journey on June 3, 2024, at home, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Billy’s life, please join us for his Celebration of Life at Locals Bar and Coffee Shop, 107 West Main Street in Epworth, on Sunday, June 23, 2024, from 1-5 pm. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Billy’s family.

Billy was born on November 18, 1942, to Albert and Bernadine (Burds) Spiegel. One could say that Billy was a social introvert, a man of few words, and a man of a serious nature in all areas of life.  Billy’s daily motto was ‘all work and no play,’ which in turn made his life relatively dull and boring.  One could certainly say those things, but those comments would be as far from the truth as one could get. For those who knew and loved Billy, and even those who simply crossed his path by random chance, knew he loved life, and didn’t take it too seriously. He never found himself in a moment that couldn’t be improved with one of his many good jokes, pranks, or humorous one-liners, followed by his unforgettable laugh.  His home and work life were blessed, not only because he was surrounded by family and friends that he adored, but undeniably because of his physical presence within both as well.  He was united in marriage to the one he always loved and adored, LuAnn Pitz, in 1964, and from that point on, life would never be the same in every good way that you could imagine.  Billy owned Spiegel Construction Excavating in Epworth for many years, with the last twenty-five years being with his son, Nathan as his partner.  He took great pride while driving around the area and reflecting on the countless projects he was involved in. Billy’s goal each day was to make someone’s day better, work hard, do quality work, and laugh often with those he encountered.

Billy enjoyed sports of all kinds and played baseball for years in the area, even being inducted into the Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame in 2008.  He enjoyed playing baseball so much that he played on Doubleday Field in Cooperstown, New York, Arizona, and Las Vegas when he was in his 60’s with his oldest son, Chris and his sons. When the Yankee’s were taking the field, Billy gave that game his undivided attention. If a good game of Euchre or 5 Crowns was about to break out, Billy was going to grab a seat at the table and gently remind everyone who truly possessed the skills to win and if he was feeling sympathetic, he may even allow you to win a hand or two just for good measure.  Billy’s greatest joy was any time his grandchildren were by his side.  It’s difficult to imagine that there’s another Grandpa out there who played this role so perfectly, but he would definitely allow you to think so if it made you feel better.  We are all happier and better people for having known Billy, and our world is a better place for having him in it. May the Lord bless and keep you in His grace-filled arms until we all see your contagious smile once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Billy include,

his wife of 60 years, LuAnn Spiegel;

his proud children, Chris Spiegel, Rebecca (Peter) Smith, Abby Spiegel, and Nathan (Tammy) Spiegel;

his fourteen grandchildren that love him dearly, Billy Spiegel, Cayden Spiegel, Shelby Spiegel, Emmalyne Smith (Richie Leahy), Elijah (Amanda) Sifuentes-Smith, Josephine Smith, (Andy Vujnovich), Sophia Smith (Adam Wessels), Augustine Smith, Isaiah Smith, Abraham Smith, Samuel Smith, Nellie Welsh (Andrew Keay), Lilly Welsh (Walker Ochs), and Atticus Welsh;

his siblings, Gerrie (Marv) Roling, A.J. Spiegel, Mary (Buzz) McDermott, and Bob Spiegel;

his brothers and sisters-in-law, Robert (Dorothy) Pitz, Steve (Judy) Pitz, Karen Wendt, Bonnie Pitz, Janet Pitz, Mary (Mark) Brown, and Deby Oberfoell;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents; his mother and father-in-law, Bill and Marie Pitz; his four grandsons, Skylar Hootmann, C.J. Spiegel, Lucas Spiegel, and Cyril Smith; his brother, Bobby Spiegel; and his brothers-in-law, David Pitz, Ronnie Pitz, and Jeff Oberfoell.

Billy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our family, friends and neighbors who have been so generous. We cannot thank you enough for all of the love we have been showered with during these very difficult days and we pray that the Lord blessed each and every one of you for your kindnesses.

To quote Billy…“You never work a day in your life if you love what you do” and “I loved my life”

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

James H. Welbes

James H. Welbes, 87, formerly of Dubuque, died on June 1, 2024 at Woodlands Creek Senior Living, in Clive, IA.

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

The Mass of Christian Burial for James will be at 10:30 am on Monday, June 10, 2024, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Jim was born November 13, 1936, in Sherrill, son of Arthur and Mathilda (Nauman) Welbes. On June 20, 1959, he married Carolu Digman in St. Patrick Catholic Church in Dubuque.

After graduating from high school, Jim attended vocational school.  He worked at the Dubuque Packing Company as well as helping his wife, Carolu, owner and operator of the Dubuque Dance Studio and Gymnastics Club.

Survivors include his wife, Carolu Welbes of Clive; daughter, Candace (Ronald) Winters of Urbandale; brothers, Paul (DeeAnn) Welbes and Pete (Mary Ann) Welbes, both of Dubuque.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

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

Peggy S. Johnson

Peggy S. Johnson, age 62, of Dubuque, passed away at 9:20 a.m., on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  In keeping with Peggy’s wishes there will not be any services held at this time.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Peggy’s family.

Peggy was born on September 21, 1961, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Suzanne (Urban) Shaffer.

Peggy attended Audubon Grade School, Jefferson Middle School and Hempstead High School.  She married Charles Johnson on September 21, 1990, but he sadly preceded her in death after 14 years together on November 8, 2004.  Peggy enjoyed going for car rides, drinking pop, listening to music, watching TV and visiting with her family.

Those left to cherish Peggy’s memory include

3 siblings,
Mike Shaffer, Fox Lake, WI,
Rochelle Beasley, Rock Falls, IL,
Wendy (Jim) McLaughlin, Dubuque, IA
and Pearl Shaffer, Dubuque, IA.

Peggy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles Johnson; and 2 brothers, Randy Shaffer and Tim Shaffer.

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

Patrick C. Regan

Patrick Clement Regan, 87, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

A prayer service will be held at 2:30 pm Sunday, June 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 6:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Pat will be 10:30 am Monday, June 10, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Patrick was born April 2, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Peter C. and Mable Friedman Regan. On April 25, 1959, he married Stella Ann Brimeyer at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque. Pat and Stella just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

He was a 1955 graduate of Loras Academy. He attended Loras University before completing his five year apprenticeship as a patternmaker at John Deere Dubuque Works.

He served in the U.S. Army Reserves as a Staff Sergeant from 1956 until 1962.

Pat was a patternmaker and Senior Engineer Analyst at John Deere for 35 and 1/2 years until his retirement in 1992.

He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection. He was an accomplished woodworker and channeled his creativity into crafting beautiful pieces as well as teaching many others on his craft. He was in a group that built 117 homes across the border in Mexico for the homeless. His favorite place to be was in any woodworking shop. He enjoyed traveling, camping, and cherished time spent with family.

Survivors include his wife, Stella; one daughter, Debra Nelson of Dunbar, NE;  four sons, Timothy (Diane) Regan of Baraboo, WI, Michael (Kathy) Regan of Dubuque, Thomas Regan of Bradenton, FL, and Mark (Jeanne) Regan of Ponte Vedra, FL; 13 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; brothers- and sisters- in law, Marvin Brimeyer of Sherrill, Peter Brimeyer of Dubuque, Earl (Kathy) Brimeyer of Dubuque, Diane (Dudley) Huber of Farmerville, LA, Linda Burgess of Dubuque, Laura (Loras) Miller of Dubuque, Lewis (Sharon) Brimeyer of Dubuque, and Patrick (Patrice) Brimeyer of Dubuque; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, Rosemary Howard and JoAnn Scannell, one brother, Verlyn Regan, and one niece and Goddaughter, Pat (Howard) Bell.

Memorials have been established for Hospice of Dubuque and Church of the Resurrection.

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

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

Sabrina L. Andresen

Sabrina Lynn Andresen, 50, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024.

There will be no formal services.

Sabrina was born June 13, 1973, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Robert J. Sr. and Shirley M. (Buchholz) Andresen.

Sabrina graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1993. She most recently was working at KFC. She aspired to become a mechanic one day.

In her free time she enjoyed when her brother would come visit and cut her hair or go for a walk. She also enjoyed listening to music, especially Elvis. Sabrina loved all animals but most of all she loved cats. She will be remembered for doing things her way and living life by her own rules, but in the best way.

Survivors include her three siblings, Tina (Scott) Coulson of Dubuque; Rock-n-Rob “Robby” Andresen II of Dubuque; Donna (Darb) Blackburn of East Dubuque, IL; special aunt, Jody (Wade) Gartner; and ten nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her niece, Tonya Weiner; and a nephew, Tyler Ingles.

The family would like to thank all of the caregivers over the years, especially most recently, the caregivers at her assisted living for making Sabrina feel like a part of their family and teaching her important life skills.

She will be forever missed and never forgotten. “Until we meet again, rest in peace, Brinni.” – from your siblings.

Mary Ann Doyle

Mary Ann “Pat” Doyle, 91, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on June 1, 2024.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Friday June 7, 2024, at the Cathedral of St. Raphael.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at the Cathedral with Fr. Dennis Quint officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Pat was born on June 15, 1932, in Omaha, Nebraska, daughter of John and Caroline (Machacek) Theiler. She graduated high school from St. Joseph’s Academy in Des Moines, Iowa. Pat was united in marriage to Gerald Doyle on April 15, 1953, at St. Augustin Catholic Church in Des Moines, Iowa. She dedicated her life to being an amazing homemaker, wife, and mother.

She is survived by her children Mark Doyle, Susan Black, Tim (Angie) Doyle, Patrick Doyle, and John (Carrie) Doyle, eleven grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gerald and son-in-law Dan Black.

James S. Taylor

James Sidney Taylor 65, of Dubuque IA passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones on Sunday June 02, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd with a service to be held at 7:00 p.m.

James (Jim) Taylor was born on November 23, 1958, in Fennimore, Wisconsin. He graduated from Lancaster High school in 1977, as well as received a 2-year Technical Degree from Southwest Technical College.

He Married Lynn (Schadl) Taylor on July 30, 1996, in Dubuque IA. He worked in Industrial Maintenance at Prairie Farms in Dubuque, retiring after 33 Years.

Jim was an avid bowler for over 35 years and is a part of the USBC 700 club in Dubuque, IA. Jim also loved fishing and hunting with his boys when they were younger, as well as going golfing with his kids, even though he thought he was not good at it. He thoroughly enjoyed picking on his daughters, instilled his values and beliefs within them and never to change. Jim was truly a best friend to all his kids.

He enjoyed riding free on his Harleys with his wife Lynn, they loved to take long rides and end up at Kalmes in St. Donatus for dinner, where they always had a special table they would sit at. He liked to take car cruises with his car club friends, enjoyed putzing around in his buddies’ shops, as well as working on his motorcycle and took so much pride in restoring his 1967 Chevelle. Jim was always looking for something to fix or build and was always willing to lend a helping hand to whoever needed it.

Jim was one the of biggest Green Bay Packers fans, who looked forward to Sunday Packer games with his kids and wife, this was definitely the highlight of his week having everyone together. Cookouts and pool parties with family was something he loved to do, he would probably have a cheeseburger and fries everyday if he could. Jim looked forward to the yearly family reunion at his brother Ron’s farm where they would grill out, shoot at targets, and enjoy family time. He also loved listening to rock music. Jim would go camping with his wife Lynn to make her smile, even though we all knew he strongly disliked camping but he loved that it made Lynn happy.

Jim had an infectious smile and laugh that instantly made life better. He was always up for a good joke and having some Busch Lights and reminiscing about life. Jims love for their dogs was undeniable. He will be remembered for his devotion as a husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great grandfather.

Jim is survived by his loving wife Lynn of 28 years; his children Jesse Taylor; Chris (Mandy Baus) Taylor; Jennifer (Jamie Post) Taylor; Kelli (Alex) Schweitzer; David Jackson; Erica Pelfrey; Danny (Kayla) Taylor; Zach Taylor; His siblings Marsha Mueller; Ron (Chris) Taylor; Kim Taylor; Chris (George) Little; Todd (Kelly) Taylor and Tom (Carrie) Taylor, His Grandchildren Mitchell (Sarah); Sydney (Dakota); Will & Andrew Taylor; Brandi (Ryan); Wesley; Kennedy; Will & Halie Schweitzer; Rhylee; Tailynn; Keegan; Lincoln; and Zoey. His Great Grandchildren Vivian; Lilah; Sutton; and Sophia and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Arden and Lorraine (Lenzendorf) Taylor; mother-in-law Kathleen (Kay) Schadl; brother Bob Taylor; sister-in-law Sue Schmitt; brothers-in-law John Kuepers; Ron Mueller; and his Nephew Wayne Taylor; and Ryan Taylor.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Hermann of the Dubuque Finley’s Oncology Department as well as Hospice of Dubuque for their dedicated care.

Bob Simon

Bob Simon, 83, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at Harmony Dubuque.

Per Bob’s wishes, there will be no formal services.

Bob  was born April 30, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert F. and Violet (Schweitzer) Simon. On December 30, 1966, he married Kathryn L. Backes in Galena, IL. She preceded him in death on February 25, 2018.

Bob graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for many years, retiring in 2006.

Bob enjoyed music, even dabbled in playing the steel guitar. He also was a lover of all animals from a young age. Bob was also an avid Chicago Blackhawks fan. He enjoyed traveling with Kathy to Door County, Wisconsin and going to the 3 Mile House with his son, Kris.

Survivors include his son, Kristopher Simon of Dubuque, IA.

Besides his parents, Bob was preceded in death by his wife and his sister, Nancy (Jim) Rice.

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

Vincent R. Thomas III

Vincent Ray Thomas, III, infant son of Tiassia Simmons and Vincent Ray Thomas Jr, was born into Heaven on May 31, 2024, at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque Iowa assisted the family.

He is survived by his Mommy (Tiassia Simmons), Daddy (Vincent Ray Thomas, Jr.), and Sissy, (Scarlett Marie Thomas). His grandparents Patricia Williams, Leroy Williams, and Grandma Debra and Grandma Ada. Along with his aunties, uncles, cousins, friends and his God Mommy.

Vincent joins in Heaven: Grandpa Timothy, Grandma Levorn, Grandma Sarah, Grandpa Elton and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

The family wishes to thank Finley Hospital nurses and doctors along with Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory for their care and compassion.

Even though it was only for a short time, we feel like we’ve known you forever. Mommy, Daddy and Sissy love you forever and always. We will never forget and will always remember you. You were ready but our hearts were not. XOXO, Love Mommy and Daddy, we love you always.

Russell R. Kuennen

Russell R. Kuennen, 83, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00 a.m. with Father Steve Garner officiating. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque is assisting the family.

Russell was born on February 20, 1941, in St. Lucas, Iowa the son of Arnold and Florence (Tallman) Kuennen. He received his education from St. Patrick Catholic Grade School, Loras Academy and Loras College. Russ also served in the Army Reserves. 

On January 23, 1965, he married the “Prettiest bride of 1965”, Maureen Delaney at St. Anthony Catholic Church. Together they shared almost 60 years of marriage.

Russ was a supervisor for John Deere Dubuque Works in the Experimental Department, retiring in 1995. He then worked for the Dubuque Community School District as a bus driver for 10 years, retiring in 2010. He often said that was one of the nicest jobs he ever had. Russ was a member of “That Man is You” with Holy Ghost Church and was a Board Member for DuTrac Community Credit Union.

Russ enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Meadows Golf Club. He will be missed at his Thursday morning coffee meetings with his friends and his Saturday morning breakfast at HyVee. Russ loved his winters in Florida with Maureen. Every summer Russ was spotted regularly on his lawn mower and took great pride in meticulously manicuring his lawn.

Russ is survived by his wife, Maureen; his sons, Jim (Jackie) Kuennen and Eric (Vanessa) Kuennen, seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his in-laws, Emmett and Bertha Delaney; a sister Aileen Klinck and a son Jefferey A. Kuennen to ALS on June 26, 2010.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

Kim M. Pins

Kim Marie Pins, 66, of Asbury, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at her home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Mass of Christian Burial for Kim will be 10:30 am Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Father Noah Diehm as the principal celebrant and Father Steven Garner as the concelebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Kim was born November 29, 1957, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Norbert “Jake” and Doris Frye Tigges. Kim’s best decision was to marry her best friend, Don. Their serendipitous meeting at Hickory Farms Cheese Store, where Kim worked part-time during high school, foreshadowed the beautiful bond they would share. She married Donald Joseph Pins on July 16, 1977, at the Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque, marking the beginning of their beautiful journey together.

She was a Hempstead High School graduate and attended Cornell College in Mount Vernon.

Kim worked in banking for 45 years, beginning her career in 1979 at First National Bank and transitioning to Fidelity Bank and Trust in 2003.

Kim, a devout Catholic and a member of the Church of the Resurrection, exemplified a life of service and dedication to her community. As a longstanding board member of RSVP and a devoted Girl Scout Leader for a decade, she tirelessly contributed her time and efforts to enriching the lives of others. Kim’s unwavering commitment to volunteerism was recognized with a Leadership Award from Women of Achievement and the esteemed State of Iowa Governor’s Volunteer Award. Guided by the core values of faith, family, personal integrity, and the strong work ethic instilled by her parents, Kim lived a life marked by compassion, generosity, and purpose. Her legacy of service and devotion to her beliefs will continue to inspire those fortunate enough to have known her.

In the quiet moments, Kim found joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her love for flowers and gardening blossomed alongside her talents in sewing, embroidery, and quilting. She had various friend groups including “Quilt Bee”, “Holy Ghost Girls”, “Shopping Sisters”, lifelong dear friends she grew up with, as well as, new found friends in her neighborhood and whom she worked with. She cherished the warmth of family gatherings, especially the family book club with her two daughters. Kim’s love for literature was matched only by her appreciation for the arts, particularly theatre, where she found inspiration and delight. Above all, Kim cherished the company of her beloved family and friends, whose presence illuminated her life with laughter, love, and endless memories.

Survivors include her husband, Don; one son, Brian (Tiffany) Pins of Lexington, VA; two daughters, Kaitlyn (Joe) Lilly of Bettendorf, IA, and Rachel (Danny) Rose of Iowa City, IA; four grandchildren; three grandpups; her mother, Doris Tigges of Dubuque; one brother, Rick Tigges of Dubuque; sisters – and brothers-in-law, Mary Sue (Gene) Schultz, Nancy (Ron) Drees, Janet (Joe) Kluesner, Tom (Carrie) Pins, and Mark (Barb) Pins.

She was preceded in death by her father; in-laws, Sylvester and Rosemary Pins; niece, Becky Drees; and good friend, Jan Theisen.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Bell Tower Theatre, where Kim and Don were season ticket holders for many years.

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