Obituaries Archive

Genevieve Wienen

Colleen Holland Schleicher

Patricia F. Gassman

Patricia F. “Pat” Gassman, age 87, of Dubuque, passed away surrounded by her family at 12:51 p.m., on Friday, September 6, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center.  To honor Pat’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Pat was born on February 24, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, to Raymond J. and Remi (Schaul) Gansemer.

Pat graduated from Leo High School in Holy Cross.  She married Marvin Gassman, and they had a daughter together before deciding to part ways.  Pat would later have a son to complete her family.  She was raised with a strong work ethic.  Pat worked with the Department of Human Services for 27 ½ years and at Mt. Carmel for 19 years before enjoying her retirement years.  Pat’s faith was an integral part of her life.  She was a long time member of Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church and the Catholic Order of Foresters.  In her free time, Pat liked visiting thrift stores, playing Bingo and chatting with people.  She was also an avid reader, and, in her younger days, Pat loved to go dancing.  Pat was a kind person, and she will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

2 children,
Carol (Karl) Froisy, Holly Ridge, NC
and Robert (Lisa) Gassman, Dubuque, IA;

6 grandchildren,
Jody Greve, Jillean Harmon, Kevin (Becky Portzen) Carkeek, John Froisy, Noah Gassman, Natalie (Kyle) Leytem;

7 great grandchildren,
Kara, Joseph, Ryleigh, Maddux, Reid, Winston and Leo;

and her siblings,
Mary (Paul) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA,
Evelyn Brimeyer, Bettendorf, IA,
John (Margaret) Gansemer, Dubuque, IA
and Robert (Joan) Gansemer, Dubuque, IA.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her former husband, Marvin Gassman; her sister, Ann (Dick) Westhof; a brother-in-law, Ralph Brimeyer; and a special friend, John Kohn.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of 3 North at Stonehill for the excellent care they have provided for Pat these past months.

Greeting cards and memorials in Pat’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Patricia Gassman Family.

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

Paul A. Kelly

Paul A. Kelly, age 74, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:35 a.m., on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Harmony Dubuque.  To honor Paul’s life private services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

Paul was born on February 17, 1950, in Sioux City, IA, son of Robert and Betty (Gillis) Taft.

Paul graduated from high school, and after serving in the military was ordained in the Baptist Church in California.  He honorably served his country in both Korea and Vietnam with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines.  Paul was self employed for most of his working career.  He worked at Mayflower and helped people move, but his favorite job painting and installing flag poles.  He was always happiest when he was high up in the air working on a new project.  He married Diane Brokus on March 6, 2001, in Dubuque, and they made a wonderful life together.  In his free time, Paul enjoyed shooting pool and going fishing.  He was a great story-teller and loved spending time with his family, especially the grandkids.  Paul’s faith was extremely important to him, and he was a dedicated member of Old Paths Baptist Church.  Paul will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include

his wife,
Diane Kelly, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Aaron (Amanda) Brokus, Olwein, IA,
Erica (Will) Billington, Clarksville, IA,
Ashley (Kohl) Lee, Indianapolis, IN,
Teasha McManigle, Dubuque, IA
and Cody McManigle, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren,
Lar’iah, Gage, Sophia, Eli, Payton, Kingsley, Ashari, Ashton, Kohlani, Tyra and Trenton;

his children from a previous marriage,
Shane, Nick, Andrew and Becky;

and 3 sisters.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers, Keith and Kenny.

Paul’s family would like to thank the staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, especially Sara; everyone at Tri-State Dialysis; his community at Old Paths Baptist Church; and his special friend from Bingo, Arlo Meiers.  Your care and companionship have meant the world to Paul.

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

Jim Keil

Jim Keil, 74, of Bellevue, passed away on September 6, 2024 in Dubuque, Iowa. A Christian Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 9, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends from 9:00 a.m. until services at the church.  Burial will be in First Presbyterian Church cemetery in Bellevue. 

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

Jim was born on October 14, 1949 in Bellevue and was the son of Alvin and Alverna Keil and the older brother of Joannie (Keil) Kilburg. 

Jim met Barb Reed at a Fourth of July teen dance one glorious evening and from that point forward their lives were forever changed. They began their beautiful marriage and life together shortly thereafter. Jim and Barb raised three children who adored them greatly. 

Jim was an accomplished man. He held an undergraduate degree from the University of Dubuque and a master’s degree from Clarke College. He was an avid outdoorsman spending many days in the field with his good friend, Keith Griebel. He was also a golfer, a cyclist, a boater, an economist, a substitute teacher and even a published author. But above all of those things, he was a husband, a dad, a friend and a grandpa and that’s how he will be remembered. He will also be remembered by how much he loved to make people laugh. 

Those left to honor his memory include his three children, Jennifer Keil, of Dubuque, David (Kristin) Keil, of Arlington Heights and Andrew (Kimberley) Keil, of Bellevue; four grandchildren, Jacob, Rachel, Lauren and Zack; sister Joannie (Dean) Kilburg; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, a charitable memorial fund has been established in Jim’s honor with proceeds going to the Bellevue Area Ducks Unlimited with which Jim was an active committee member. 

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

Rev. David M. McGhee

Reverend David Michael McGhee joined his best friend and wife, Alice, in Heaven on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Monday, September 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Deacon David will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Church of the Nativity with Father Stephen Audu as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

He was born September 22, 1937, to Anne (Wunderlich) and Clifton McGhee of Center Grove, Iowa. He received an undergraduate degree in psychology from Loras College and completed his graduate degree in education from the University of Iowa. 

David and Alice were married on August 4, 1962, at St Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Upon completing his graduate degree in 1967, David and Alice took their young family to serve as Missionaries in the Bahamas, serving the poor. David strongly believed in walking the talk and modeling his faith to his family and those around him. David tried to live his life by the example set by Jesus. 

David fulfilled his calling to ministry and was ordained to the first class of the Deaconate in 1977. This was only possible with the support of Alice, who stood by his side as he provided comfort for many families in their time of grief and celebrated milestones such as weddings and baptisms. Being stopped at a shopping mall was not uncommon as people shared updates of children that he had baptized or couples that he married. 

David firmly believed in advocating for those that had no voice. This was a tenant of his life which he instilled in his children. He taught special education at the Western Dubuque school district for 26 years until he was asked by Archbishop Kucera to join the Tribal at the Archdiocese of Dubuque. While he was honored for the request, he quickly found that he was better suited for ministry and in 1994, transitioned to being Associate Pastor at Nativity Church in Dubuque where he continued until his retirement in 2018. Throughout his life, David readily stepped up for requests to volunteer and serve others. He spent several years serving on the Mercy Ethics Committee and as a board member at Area Residential Center. He was particularly proud to serve on the board for The Source as the only non-addict and supporter of people struggling with addiction.   

David found joy in visiting with just about everyone he came in contact with. He was a gifted speaker, an excellent listener, and loved hearing how he was able to make a difference in the lives of those he touched. He counseled thousands of people over his years at Nativity and through his volunteer work. He was particularly proud of his Scottish heritage and wore his kilt with family tartan at every opportunity.

David always wore a dove pin on his shirt to share his commitment to peace. Whenever anyone would ask about the pin, he would immediately take it off and give it to the person who asked about it, taking the opportunity to share his message of love. 

David is survived by his daughter Anne of Schenectady NY, Brigid (Tim) Rahlf of Dubuque, and Christopher (Kimberly) of York PA. He had six granddaughters and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Alice, his older brother Johnny, and his older sister, Mary Pickart. 

The family wants to thank all the friends that came to see Dad over the past few years. Your friendship and attention were incredibly important in helping Dad know that he touched lives and made a difference. Finally, we want to thank the staff at Hospice and Stonehill for their care and love of Mom and Dad.

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

James A. Theisen

James A. Theisen, 73, of Asbury, Iowa passed away on September 1, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Jim passed with his family by his side following complications from a fall.

To celebrate Jim’s life, please join the family at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road on Saturday, October 19th, 2024. A memorial service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a gathering for all of Jim’s family and friends to follow until 6:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com. A private family burial was held at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Below is a write-up that Jim’s family found that he had prepared.

It is better to be lucky than good. Those words sum up my life quite well. Starting with being born to great parents, Ray and Doris (Till) Theisen, on April 29, 1951. Being born on mom’s birthday was always a source of great pride. They instilled in me the importance of faith, family and friends. I was blessed to have had them as my parents. My six siblings and I referred to ourselves as the Lucky Seven; those siblings consist of: Judy (Butch) Merritt, Jerry (Karen), Jeff (Trudy), Joe (Lisa), Jay (Jenny) and Jon (Lisa) Theisen. Having our names all begin with the letter “J” was unique at the time. Some of you can maybe recite our names by birth order: Jim, Judy, Jerry, Jeff, Joe, Jay and Jon. It was confusing at times, but it worked.

After graduating from Bellevue Marquette in 1969, my luck reached a new level that summer when I started dating one of my classmates, Pat Gothard. We eventually married on Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1971. I could not have asked for a better partner in life.

Together we raised three beautiful daughters: Jodi Theisen, Melissa (Eric) Reeves and Amy (Ben) Larson. They and their spouses provided us with six grandchildren: Maggie & Cooper Hooks, Gavin & Lauryn Reeves and Ella & Avery Larson. My family knows how proud I am of them. My hope is that they will continue to take care of each other. I love you all so much.

My life has also been filled with great friends over the years. I won’t single any of you out for fear of omitting and offending anyone. Some of these friendships were from my childhood and school days. These friendships continued as we raised our families. LYLT! Some were formed while working for 38 years at John Deere. Playing baseball, softball and being in several bands throughout my adult years also put me in touch with some great people. I was fortunate enough to have drummed with some very talented musicians. You know who you are and what those times together meant to me. Remember, drummers are musicians, too!

I want to thank God for putting all of you in my life. You helped me to become who I am.  ~ Jim

In addition to those listed above, Jim is also survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law:  Jim (Mary Jo) Gothard, Mary Jo (Roger Gehl) Gothard, Linda (Brent) Rathje, Doug (Teresa) Gothard, Mari Jo (Jerry) Pitts, Steve (Laurie) Gothard, and Terry (Cindy) Gothard. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Jim is preceded in death by mother-in-law Marge Gothard, father-in-law Ken Gothard, brother-in-law Curt Gothard, nephew Jeremy Theisen, niece Jessica Theisen, as well as numerous lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers a Jim Theisen memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank Asbury EMS for their quick response; the Emergency doctors, nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital, AirCare Emergency Transport, and the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics Surgical Neuroscience ICU for the care and compassion they gave to Jim and his family.  They would especially like to thank all their family and friends for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Barbara E. Hughes

Barbara E. “Barb” Hughes, 88, of Delmar, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, September 4, 2024, at Luther Manor in Dubuque, Iowa. 

Barbara Ellen Wilcox was born on March 29, 1936 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Galen and Ruth (Kingsley) Wilcox.  She was a 1953 graduate of Maquoketa High School and a graduate of Paris Beauty Academy of Cedar Rapids.  She married Robert J. “Bob” Hughes on November 26, 1955 in Delmar, Iowa.  Together they had three children, Mark, Cindy, and Brian.

Barb had worked as a hairdresser in her younger years.  Later, she worked at Osterhaus Pharmacy in Maquoketa for over 20 years.

Barb was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar.  She enjoyed refinishing furniture for her home and for her family.  She also enjoyed gardening, being outside, and was an excellent cook and baker.  Most of all, she enjoyed spending time with family and friends.

Those left to honor her memory are her children, Mark (Michelle) Hughes of Maquoketa, IA, Cindy (Alan) Chittick of Waunakee, WI, and Brian (Wanda) Hughes of Delmar, IA;  5 grandchildren, Jason (Cailey) Hughes, Levi (Erin) Hughes, Bobbie Hughes, Emily Chittick, and Jesse Chittick; 4 great-grandchildren, Aida, Haiden, and Colt Hughes, and Kaia Chittick; sister, Bonnie Schmits of Davenport, IA; brothers-in-law, Paul (Denyse) Hughes of Maquoketa, IA, Dr. Thomas Hughes of Geneseo, IL and Dennis (Debbie) Hughes of Maquoketa, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, husband “Bob”, brother Wayne Wilcox, and 2 grandchildren Molly and Elizabeth Hughes.

A funeral mass celebrating her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Delmar, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, September 9, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Delmar, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Barbara E. “Barb” Hughes memorial fund has been established.

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

David J. Theobald

David J. Theobald, age 52, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on September 4, 2024, at home, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor David’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving David’s family.

David was born on April 3, 1972, in Des Moines, IA, a son to Herbert A. and Janet D. (Hoskins) Moorman.   He was a kind soul who was naturally gifted and talented in the art of language.  Whether in spoken, written, or sign, his limits were only ever stifled by his uninhibited imagination.  David earned his Associates Degree from Iowa Western Community College and went on to complete his Bachelors of Arts and Legal Interpretation Certification from the University of Northern Colorado.  He faithfully participated in the Iowa Board of Sign Language Interpreters and Transliterators and eventually earned his Masters level as a NAD5.  His love for others and ability to share his time and talents without hesitation was continually on display throughout his life and he most recently invested his years with the Dubuque Community School District.  David faced life as his mission field to serve others and all who knew and loved him can easily attest to the fact that it was truly a success story in each step along the way.

David always took time to enjoy life as well and his interests were what some would call eclectic, but in David’s mind, it all brought him great joy and made absolutely perfect sense.  Reality TV was near the top of the list for sure, but comic books, action figures, toys, and LEGOS rarely took second place to any competition for his time and attention.  David also enjoyed Winnie the Pooh and tulips any time of the year, but hands down, his family and friends were always where his pride and joy was best satisfied.  The world around us today is sadly a little darker and missing the bright light and love that David continually enjoyed sharing with everyone he came in contact with.  We will miss him dearly and more than words could ever accurately describe, but we find peace in knowing that he didn’t have to fight his earthly battle with cancer any longer than necessary.  Thank you, David, for simply being you and for diligently reminding us that it’s ok to prioritize a little personal time after we’ve committed the majority of our time to serve others whenever possible. 

Those left behind to cherish the memory of David include his beloved partner of 28 years, John J. “Jake” Theobald, Dubuque, IA; his parents, Janet (Robert) Rice, West Des Moines, IA; his sister, Jennifer “Jensa” (Carl Randall) Hutchinson, Cedar Rapids, IA; his “niblings”, Ava “Pretty Bird” Hutchinson, Cedar Rapids, IA, Camille “Little Flower” Hutchinson, Cedar Rapids, IA, and Isaiah “Silly Turtle” Hutchinson, Cedar Rapids, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

David was preceded in death by his father, Herb Moorman; and his grandparents, Imogene and Archie Moorman, Deane and Arlouine Hoskins, and Elizabeth Rice.

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

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

Acel J. Nowachek

Acel J. Nowachek, 81, of Wyoming, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday morning, September 4, 2024, at UnityPoint Health – St. Lukes Hospital, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Acel Joseph Nowachek was born on October 12, 1942, in Monmouth, Iowa, the son of Joseph Howard and Mildred (Hudrlik) Nowachek. He grew up on the family farm, developing a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the land and community that would remain with him throughout his life.  He was a 1960 Monmouth High School graduate, and then served is country in the U.S. Army from 1962 to 1965, receiving an honorable discharge for his dedicated service. It was during this time that he married his lifelong love, Rita Rae Bramer, on May 14, 1962, in Wyoming, Iowa. The couple was blessed with two children, Dean and Mary Jo, who brought immense joy and pride to Acel’s life.

Upon returning home from serving his country, Acel embarked on a career that was as diverse as it was fulfilling. He initially farmed and worked for Caraway Feed’s in Maquoketa, followed by positions at G.L. Stockham and Son Construction and Lamborn Construction Co. His career path eventually led him to Farmer’s Supply Company in Delmar, Iowa, where he dedicated many years before retiring in 2012.

Acel’s life was marked by his involvement in his community.  He was a respected member of the Wyoming American Legion Post #259 and served as an elder at the First Presbyterian Church in Onslow. His leadership extended to the next generation as he guided young minds as a 4-H leader for several years. Acel’s contributions to these organizations were a testament to his belief in service and his desire to make a positive impact on those around him.

An avid outdoorsman, Acel found solace and excitement in the natural world. He was passionate about hunting, particularly deer hunting, and cherished the quiet moments and the thrill of the chase. Fishing on the river was another pastime that brought Acel peace and happiness.

Acel’s legacy is carried on by his devoted wife, Rita Nowachek of Wyoming, IA; his children, Dean (Jodi) Nowachek of Monmouth, IA, and Mary Jo (Kerry) Huston of Cedar Rapids, IA; his adored grandchildren, Jessica (Kolton) Chaplin, Drew (Grace) Nowachek, Haley (Jake Bruck) Huston, and Tyler Huston; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Alaina Nowachek and Kohen Chaplin. He also leaves behind his sisters, Judy (Duane) Heath of West Valley, UT, and Jan (Jerry) Merrill of N. Richland Hills, TX. Acel was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Ronnie Nowachek.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the First Presbyterian Church in Onslow, Iowa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, September 13, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Monmouth, Iowa Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Acel J. Nowachek memorial fund has been established.

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

Beverly L. Drapeau

Beverly Louise “Bev” Drapeau, age 96, of Galena, IL, completed her earthly journey on September 3, 2024, at home while surrounded by her loving family. To honor Bev’s life, a private family Celebration of Life will be held. Burial will be in the Prospect Hill Cemetery in Galena, IL. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bev’s family.

Bev was born on March 17, 1928, in Vincennes, IN, the first of two children born of Roland E. and Pansy I. (Borden) Grumieaux. Bev grew up in Vincennes, where she absorbed the cultural and culinary traditions of her extended Belgian and French family. Bev had particularly close relationships with her mother and grandmother Rosa (Williams) Borden who instilled in Bev her lifelong love of gardening, flowers, sewing, dolls, and cooking.

Bev attended her first years of high school at St. Rose’s Academy in Vincennes. In the winter of her junior year, she and her family moved to Oberlin, Ohio. After graduating from Oberlin High in 1946, she attended one year of college at Purdue University, where she met Joseph “Joe” Edward Drapeau the 3rd, who she married on February 7, 1948.

Following marriage, Bev’s life revolved around keeping their many homes and raising her six children. Over the course of their 41-year marriage, Bev and Joe moved over two dozen times across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Iowa, and Minnesota, following Joe’s career as a manager of Montgomery Ward and Wickes Furniture stores.

Bev nurtured her growing family with elaborate meals, spotless homes, abundant vegetable gardens, gorgeous flowerbeds, and inexhaustible energy and enthusiasm. Across their many relocations, Bev also proved herself a resourceful craftswoman, working with her husband and children to remodel and build home after home, as Joe’s job pulled them from town to town across the Midwest. Bev and her family especially enjoyed their lakeside cottages in Newaygo, Michigan and Brainerd, Minnesota, where they boated, fished, hunted, trained dogs, skied, and otherwise reveled in the great outdoors.

Bev planted deep roots in Dubuque, IA, where her four oldest children graduated high school, and in Galena, IL, where, in the late ‘70s, she and her family built a row of houses along Rocky Hill Road. Following her husband’s death at their home in Coon Rapids, MN, Bev finally settled in her beautiful home on Rocky Hill Road, where some of her children and grandchildren continue to live.

For the last thirty years of Bev’s life, she continued to be the warmest and most attentive mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother that any family could hope for, always offering her listening ear, her easy laugh, her glowing smile. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall, her house was a feast for the senses, permeated by delicious aromas of cookies, cakes, and pies, from spectacular Christmas displays, to vibrant summer blooms, to hearty Thanksgiving Banquets. Her family will forever treasure memories of joyful birthday and holiday celebrations; long evenings of Scrabble, puzzles, and gin rummy; and ample breakfasts and lunches that she lovingly prepared for all who were lucky enough to visit her.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bev include, her six children,

Joseph E. Drapeau IV, Galena, IL,
James A. Drapeau, Bellevue, IA,
Jeanette E. (Daniel) Dahlquist, Galena, IL,
Bruce L. (Jolene) Drapeau, Bellevue, IA,
Michael P. (Mary) Drapeau, Bellevue, IA,
and Brent R. (Jeanne) Drapeau, Hayward, WI;

her twenty-four grandchildren,
Joseph (Sherri) Drapeau, Marie (Kelan) Manning, Jennifer (Michael) Wilking, Ben Dodds, Nick (Courtney) Dodds, Sam (Vickie) Dodds, Luke Dodds (Erin Crouse), Bryce (Roseanne) Drapeau, Joel (Heidi) Drapeau, Kyle Drapeau (fiancé Brittney Kohlfenbach), Elizabeth (Cameron) Clinton, Matthew (Rachel) Drapeau, Blake Drapeau, Andrew Drapeau, Stephanie Drapeau, Tara Drapeau, Logan Drapeau, Mitchell Drapeau, Anthony Drapeau, Lexi Drapeau, Riley Drapeau, Erica Drapeau, Jamison (Katie) Drapeau, and Jaiden Drapeau;

her thirty-four great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Bev was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband of 41 years, Joseph E. “Joe” Drapeau III; her lifelong friend and brother, Roland J. “Bud” (Ilene) Grumieaux; her daughters-in-law, Diane Drapeau and Nancy Drapeau; and her son-in-law, David J. Dodds.

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

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

Mary C. Nessan

Mary Catherine Nessan, 32, of Dubuque passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024.  Visitation will be from 2 to 3 pm Sunday at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road, followed by a funeral service at 3 pm.  Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral can be found at www.stpeterdbq.org.

Mary was born May 8, 1992, in St. Louis, Missouri.  She was baptized into Jesus Christ on October 11, 1992, at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Mary graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 2010, where she was an exceptional athlete and teammate in track, basketball, and volleyball. She was also a marvelous musician. Mary excelled in singing and keyboard, serving as accompanist for many years at Faith Lutheran Church in Cuba City, Wisconsin.

She was a loving mother to her son, Mason, and a loving godmother to her goddaughter, Elise.  She was also a wonderful aunt and sister. As a certified medical assistant, she was very dedicated to her residents at Luther Manor.

Mary was a member of the recovery community in Dubuque and devoted the last 8 months of her life to recovery. The family thanks Mary’s counselor, doctor, sponsor, and others in the Dubuque recovery community who supported her on the journey.

Mary is survived by her son, Mason Craig Nessan-Hillery, of Dubuque; parents, Craig and Cathy Nessan of Dubuque; five siblings, Jessica Zoe (Todd) Kluck of Dubuque, Andrew Craig (Jerée) Nessan of Broomfield, Colorado, Sarah Elizabeth Nessan of Dubuque, Nathaniel Christopher (Anna) Nessan of Des Moines, and Benjamin Lee (Connie) Nessan of Dubuque; and nieces and nephews, Olivia and  Elise Kluck; Lennox Nessan; Hayden Nessan; and Betsy and Noelle Nessan. She is also survived by her significant other, Corey Ary. She was preceded in death by her grandparents.

Memorials may be given to the “Mary Nessan Memorial Fund” and are designated for the care and education of her son, Mason.

Deep gratitude is extended to St. Peter Lutheran Church in Dubuque and Pastor Matt Agee.

Frank L. Meyer

Frank L. Meyer, 85, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm on Monday, September 9, 2024 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Frank will be at 1:00 pm on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Frank was born December 5, 1938, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Frank and Cecilia (DeSotel) Meyer. On April 22, 1961, he married Jacqueline Sheean at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Frank worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 38 1/2 years retiring as a General Supervisor. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, he was a Boy Scout leader, and belonged to the Isaac Walton League and Bass Pro Fishing Club. He also was a member of the Catholic Order of Foresters for over 60 years, as well as, the Dubuque Rifle & Pistol Club for over 60 years.

Frank had a passion for the outdoors, he was an avid fisherman, enjoyed trap shooting, and boating. He also loved his garden and had a green thumb for his tomato plants. In his younger years, Frank enjoyed photography, which helped him pay his way through college. He was honored to have one of his pictures of a hummingbird published by the Telegraph Herald. Frank was a talented woodworker and made custom bedroom sets for all of his kids and grandchildren from “Frankie’s Woodworking Shop.” Most of all, he was happiest when he was spending time with his children and grandchildren, they were his world.

Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Jackie of Dubuque; four children, Ken (Carrie) Meyer of Minnetrista, MN; Tom (Gina) Meyer of White Bear Lake, MN; Christine (Dan) Soltau of Becker, MN; and Julie Tressel of Asbury; nine grandchildren, Christian & Marie Meyer, Katelyn & Jordyn Meyer, Jada & Mitchell Soltau, and Lauren, Lynne & Luke Tressel.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents and mother and father-in-law.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

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

Daniel G. Schumacher

Daniel “Dan” G. Schumacher, 64, of Dubuque, passed away on September 1, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd., with a funeral service to be held at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Katie Kemp.

Dan was born in Dubuque, on November 30, 1959, the son of David A. and Patricia J. (Jochum) Schumacher.  He married Lori K. (Klaas) Graves Schumacher on June 8 at the Schumacher home in Dubuque.  Dan was employed as a Senior Project Administrator for 31 years and two months at AY McDonald Manufacturing.  He also was a member of First Congregational United Church of Christ and an active member of the café group that served meals to the community.

To know Dan was to love him, he was the kind of man who was always there for you.  Dan was never impatient, unkind, or too busy for others.  He was a warm, caring man who always had time for you and showed interest in your life.  Dan’s generosity, work ethic, humility, and selflessness are qualities of his that we admired.  Dan was an incredible friend who put your happiness, principles, and values first.  The kind of person with whom you can be yourself without fear of judgment.  People like Dan are one in a million.  He will be incredibly missed.

Dan is survived by his wife Lori, his sons Daniel and Jason; his daughters Sara and Hope Elizabeth; grandchildren Alex, Ashley, Aleahia, Addalyn, Aria, Aason and Wyatt; step-daughter Amber Graves (Dre Collins); step-son Tyler Graves; step-grandchildren Raelee, Ky’Rae and Harvey Jo; siblings Pete, Sharon (Lance) Hoefflin, Paul (Kelly Mayne), and Beth (Tom) Potts; bonus grandchildren Zianna, Andre Jr., Anthony, Valenciyah and Laniyah; very special friends Craig (Rett) and Janet Rettenmaier; along with many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 31 years, Mary Beth (Decker) Schumacher and his parents David A. and Patricia J. (Jochum) Schumacher.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Mark Runde and the 3rd floor nurses at MercyOne.  Also, Julie, Jenny and Buffy from Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care and kindness throughout this journey.

So, let us celebrate Dan’s life and continue his legacy.

Al Heitzman

Al Heitzman, 97, of Dubuque, passed away September 2, 2024 at home.

Visitation will be from 9:00-10:00a.m., Friday, September 6, 2024 at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with a Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. Inurnment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Post 6 of Dubuque.

Al was born on July 23, 1927, to Adolph and Mathilda (Kiefer) Heitzman in Dubuque, IA.  Other than his years in the Navy and University of Iowa he was a lifelong Dubuquer.  He would regale stories of playing pranks with his Lowell Street gang growing up.  He treasured fond memories of visiting Sherrills Mound during his youth to visit his grandparents at the Heitzman Homestead or Kiefer’s Place (The Barn).

He graduated from Loras Academy and cherished lifelong friendships with the class of 1945. After high school, he enlisted in the US Navy and was assigned to the recruitment station in downtown Chicago.  After leaving the Navy, he attended Loras College, and in 1950 graduated from the University of Iowa. When the Korean War began, he served at the 10th Naval District Headquarters in San Juan, Puerto Rico.  He was Past Commander of American Legion Post 6, a 72 year member and frequent visitor to the “club” to play a game of euchre and enjoyed time with friends.

He was united in marriage to Shirley Ann (O’Connor) Heitzman on November 4, 1961 at Corpus Christi Church in Fort Dodge, IA. She preceded him in death on December 2, 2018.  Together they raised five children.

Al was employed by the City of Dubuque for nearly 30 years until his retirement in 1992 as Finance Director. He served as President of the Iowa Municipal Finance Officers Association and was appointed by Governor Branstad to the State of Iowa, Cities Finance Committee.

He was an avid fisherman with the Twelve Mile Slough and Lake Lacoma as two of his favorite spots.  During retirement he and Shirley golfed most weekdays at Fillmore Fairways.  They enjoyed gardening, Caribbean Cruises, bus trips around the United States and winter vacations to Las Cruces, NM.  He also served as Treasurer of the Dubuque Food Pantry.

Al is survived by his children, David Heitzman of Dubuque, IA, James Heitzman of Dubuque, IA, Mary (Paul) Prososki of Spirit Lake, IA, Ann (Tim) Gillispie of Tucson, AZ, and Joseph (Shelly) Heitzman of Urbandale, IA. He is survived by grandchildren Will Shellenberger, Jake and Josh Prososki, Kendall and Jordan Gillispie, and Anna and Emily Heitzman.

Al was preceded in death by his parents; wife; grandson, Charlie Shellenberger; son-in-law, Timothy Shellenberger; and five siblings: Loretta (Francis) Berens, Richard (Celeste), Harold (Marie & Bernice), Walter (Mary) and Robert.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Dubuque Food Pantry, St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Steeple Square, Archdiocese One or Hospice of Dubuque.

Al’s children would like to express their gratitude to his medical professionals and primary caregivers:  Dr. Mark Moore and his nurses, Christine with 24 HR Care and Meghan, Angelia, Ryan, Kim with Hospice of Dubuque staff.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory are entrusted with arrangements.