Obituaries Archive

Bruce E. Schaal Sr.

Bruce E. Schaal Sr. 93, of Dubuque, IA, died Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at home. Visitation will be from 4 to 6:30 pm, Monday June 8, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a funeral service at 6:30 pm. Burial will be 11:00 am, Tuesday June 9, at Linwood Cemetery where military rites will be accorded.

Bruce was born October 2, 1932 in Cassville, Wisconsin, son of Roy “Tommy” and Alice (Greenwood) Schaal.

On September 28, 1953 he married the love of his life, Annabelle Colson in Dubuque. Six days after their wedding, Bruce was sent to Korea to serve in the US Army.

Bruce worked for Dubuque Packing Company for 38 years before his retirement.

He and Annabelle are members of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

Bruce enjoyed camping, hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed meeting new people and striking up conversations with them. He loved traveling; having traveled to Alaska, Mexico, Florida, Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota, with his favorite being Glacier National Park. He will be forever missed by his loving family and will be forever in our hearts

He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Annabelle Schaal of Dubuque; four children, Bruce (Gina) Schaal Jr. of Dubuque, Wade (Kym) Schaal of California, Lisa (Dennis) Wallace of Dubuque, and Rhonda (Kirk) Gassman of Dubuque. He is also survived by ten grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ronald (Joan) Schaal, and his sister Leola (Richard) Skaife.

Anthony Riesbeck

Anthony “Allan” Riesbeck, 73, of Dubuque, died Thursday, June 4, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 9:45 am on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Allan will be at 10:00 am on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Raymond Burkle as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Allan was born October 27, 1952, in Wheeling, WV, the son of Paul and Jessie (Sapp) Riesbeck. On October 25, 1985, he married Carol Jahn Radloff in St. Clairsville, OH.

Allan was a devoted member of Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church. To say he was a baseball fan would be an understatement. A lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, he and Carol attended many games together over the years, and he was once honored with the opportunity to throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Known as “Buck” to family and friends, Allan was also an avid collector of baseball cards, with Roberto Clemente being his favorite player. In addition to his love of baseball, he enjoyed cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Survivors include his wife, Carol; two siblings, Bill (Loretta) Riesbeck of St. Clairsville, OH, and Paula (John) Vendlinski of Naples, FL; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and two brothers, J.D. Riesbeck and Paul Michael Riesbeck.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hawkeye Care Center for their love and concern.

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 Allan’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Edward R. Gansemer

Edward R. “Ed” Gansemer, 81, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on June 3rd, 2026, at Bethany Home.

Visitation will be on Monday, June 8th, 2026, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd with a wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026, at the Church of the Nativity with Rev. Dwayne Thoman officiating and Rev. Matt McMorrow concelebrating. Burial with full military honors by the American Legion Post #6 and the United States Navy will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Ed was born on December 2, 1944, in Sherrill, Iowa, son of Adolph and Marie (Hefel) Gansemer. He grew up on a farm in Holy Cross, Iowa, and graduated from Leo High School in 1963. He enlisted and served in the Navy from 1964-1968 aboard the carrier ship, USS Hancock, where he trained to be an electrician. Returning home, he asked his brother to set him up with a date. Eight months after a successful blind date, he was united in marriage to Marianna “Ruth” Entringer on September 7, 1968. They shared 54 loving years together and were blessed with three daughters. She preceded him in death on September 17, 2022.

After the Navy, he worked at Keystone Gelatin Company before joining John Deere Dubuque Works in 1974 until his retirement in 2005. He loved going to work each day at John Deere because it “never felt like work”. Being a true problem solver, he enjoyed the variety of challenges he faced each day. One could be assured that each job was done right the first time.

He was a man who lived his core values of faith, family and freedom while giving his time and talent to others. His love of country was best exemplified by his active participation within his VFW community through the Color Guard, military detail, as well as golfing with disabled veterans. He lived his faith by his countless hours of service to Nativity to maintain and improve their buildings and grounds as well as serving at Mass, ushering and his daily morning prayer and Bible study groups.

Ed enjoyed spending time with family, especially if it was over a good meal with lively conversation. He connected with his grandchildren in many small but meaningful ways such as feeding the ducks, reading books, trips to Lowe’s, golfing, fishing, and watching his grandkids in sports, to let them know how important they were to him. His numerous nieces and nephews also have many happy memories of growing up with their “Uncle Eddie”. Family gatherings will definitely be a little quieter without Ed’s hearty laugh and storytelling.

Ed is survived by his daughters Sarah (Mark) Weber, Karen (Bob) McMorrow and Teresa (Dave) Reuter. Grandchildren: Nick, Jared, Mitch and Seth Weber; Catie (Joseph) Kemper, Ciara (Oliver) Severance, Moira (José) de Quiroz, Brigid, Deirdre, Bobby and Liam McMorrow; Cole and Luke Reuter. His greatgrandchildren: Rose, Esther, Dominic and baby (due in December) Kemper; Thérèse and Colette Severance; Benedict Alonso Quiroz. His sisters-in-law Dottisue Gansemer, Venita McLaughlin, and Rita Entringer.

Ed is preceded in death by his wife, Ruth; his parents; siblings: Joan (Marv) Lukan, Matt Gansemer, Helen (Dan) Wolf and Rose Ann (Phillip “Bucky”) Breitbach; father and mother-in-law Anthony and Estella Entringer; brothers-in-law Leonard Entringer, Lester (Jean) Entringer, TJ McLaughlin; nephews Michael Wolf, Tony Entringer, Wally McLaughlin and niece Diane Aurit.

The Ed Gansemer family would like to thank Bethany Home and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and attention to Dad during his final days.

Larry J. Wienen

Larry J. Wienen, 75, of Galena, IL, passed away on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at Midwest Medical Center in Galena. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Galena. Friends may call after 10:30 AM at the church until the time of the mass. Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 PM on Monday, June 8, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where a parish rosary will be recited at 3:30 PM. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

Paul H. Schroeder

Paul Howard Schroeder, 81, of Baldwin, Iowa, passed peacefully on June 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born May 11, 1945, Paul lived his life defined by hard work, kindness and an unwavering love for his family.  He proudly served his country as a veteran and carried the values of service, integrity and respect throughout his life. On July 11, 1970, Paul married the love of his life, Rosemary Caruso.  Together they built a life centered on family, laughter and lasting memories. Paul devoted 47 years of service to ADM where he was respected for his strong work ethic, reliability, and dedication.

Outside of work, Paul found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved gardening and was especially proud of the vegetables he grew and shared with family and friends.  He also enjoyed fishing and treasured the peaceful moments spent outdoors.  One of his favorite places was Leech Lake, where he especially enjoyed fishing from his brother-in-law Andy’s boat.

Paul was an outstanding cook who loved sharing meals with family and friends.  He was well known for making the spaghetti sauce for the church supper, a tradition many looked forward to each year.  Within the family he was famous for his pancakes and homemade pizza. Nothing made Paul happier than feeding the people he loved.  He enjoyed gathering around a table filled with good food, good company, and conversation, and he never turned down a slice of cherry pie.

More than anything, Paul loved his family. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, Kaleb, Makena, Carleigh, Aubrey, Maggie and John.

Paul was a sweet and respectful man who kindness touched everyone who knew him.  He never spoke badly about anyone and always treated others with dignity and compassion. He enjoyed a good cup of coffee and meaningful conversation around the kitchen table, where family and friends were always welcome. Paul was blessed with his lifelong friendships that meant so much to him. He was a proud graduate of Correctionville High School, class of 1963, and had fond memories of classmates and stayed in contact with many throughout the years. A personal achievement he was particularly proud of was riding RAGBRAI.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife, Rosemary Schroeder, his children Amy Woods (Matt Ernst) of Calamus, IA; Brian Schroeder of Magnolia, TX; Erin Wilson (Mike) of Clinton, IA.  His cherished grandchildren, Kaleb, Makena, Carleigh, Aubrey, Maggie and John; his brother Charles Schroeder (Stella); his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Bob Caruso (Jovie), Christi Rickersten, Tom Caruso (Lisa), Anne Drinkwine (Rocky), and Andy Caruso (Barb); along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Ruby Schroeder, father-in-law and mother-in-law John and Eloice Caruso, his daughter-in-law Angie Schroeder, his cousin and best friend Wayne Schroeder, his dear friends Jim Beeson, Jack Jepson and Eddie Sterk; his brothers-in-law Stan Rickertsen, John Caruso and sister-in-law Mary Caurso.

Paul’s legacy is one of love, kindness, hard work, friendship and family. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Paul’s life will be held 11 A.M. to 1 P.M., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

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

Rita M. Custer

Rita M. Custer, 97, of Beaver Dam and formerly of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Rita was born on June 6, 1928 the daughter of Thomas and Margaret (Quinlan) Menadue in Dubuque, Iowa.  She was united in marriage to Harold W. Custer on April 12, 1947 at Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ.

Rita attended Hope Free Ev. Church while residing in Dubuque.  She enjoyed being a wife and mother.  Rita loved planning weekly family dinners and spending time with her grandchildren.  The grandchildren fondly remember Rita and Harold’s home as a favorite place to hang out and hold sleepovers. Rita was a talented seamstress.  She made clothes for her children and also Halloween costumes for the grandchildren.  Rita loved music and especially enjoyed going out to listen to local bands.

Rita will be deeply missed by her children: Gary (Lynn) Custer of Fuquay-Varina, NC, Kathy (Mike) Pusateri of Dubuque, IA and Sandy (Tom) Heiar of Beaver Dam, WI; nine grandchildren: Caleb (Diana) Custer, Luke Custer, Kristen (Ryan Fralish) Pusateri, Jarrod (Allison) Pusateri, Andrew (Kara) Pusateri, Emily Worth, Matthew (LaTara) Heiar, Blake (Brittney) Heiar and Cody (Molli Mack) Heiar; ten great grandchildren: Brynlee, Stella, Maddox, Kash, Korah, Banks, Aria, Kade, Cora and Theo.  She is further survived by other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Harold in 2017, grandson Jordan Heiar, brothers: Sam, LeRoy, Charles and Joseph, sisters: Margaret, Adele, Elsie and Gerry.

Rita will be laid to rest next to her husband Harold at Dubuque Memorial Garden Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life for Rita will be held from Noon until 3:00 p.m. on August 15, 2026 at Steeple Square, 101 E. 15th St., in Dubuque, IA 52001.

The Koepsell-Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family.  Online condolences may be made at www.koepselllfh.com.

Bonnie M. Miller

Bonnie Marie (Zahina) Miller, 82, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 2, 2026.

Bonnie was born on August 1, 1943, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Milan Zahina and Marie Slaght. She spent most of her life in Dubuque. On June 1, 1963, Bonnie married the love of her life, Bruce Miller, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque. Together they shared a beautiful life and celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on June 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of their family.

Bonnie worked at the Julien Care Facility for 25 years, retiring in 2004. Following retirement, she and Bruce enjoyed spending time with family and friends. In 2013, they moved to Laughlin, Nevada, where they enjoyed a new chapter of life together, savoring retirement. In 2018, they relocated to Fort Wayne, Indiana, to be closer to loved ones.

Family was the center of Bonnie’s world. She found great joy in cooking for those she loved, especially during the holidays, when family gathered around her table to enjoy her famous German potato salad, Texas sheet cake, sage stuffing and sweet-and-sour chicken wings. She loved doing puzzles, playing bingo and euchre, and spoiling her grandchildren with little trinkets that always brought smiles. Bonnie was happiest when surrounded by family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Milan and Marie; her beloved daughter, Tracey; her nephews, Brett and Blaine Dunne; her sisters, Phyllis (William) Dunne and Carol Barrett; and her brother, Gerald Zahina.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her husband, Bruce; her children, Tina (Scott) Gunderson, Todd Miller, Lisa Miller, Lance (Jane Buse-Miller) Miller, Cary (Bob) Tittle and Chad (LaRue) Miller; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; and 3 grand dogs. She is also survived by her brother, Marvin (Jim Peters) Slaght; her sister, Mary Kay Zahina; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the emergency care team and the staff at Lutheran Hospital for the compassionate care and support they provided to Bonnie and her family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 29 from 1:00 to 5:00pm at the Eagles Club, 1175 Century Drive in Dubuque, Iowa.

Bonnie will be remembered for her love of family, her adventurous spirit and her joy for life. The memories she created and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

Herb F. Link Jr.

Herb F. Link Jr. “Beech”, 88, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa with Fire Department attending at 9:30 a.m. Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Dyersville, Iowa with Rev. Georges Midiangu officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post#137 and Dubuque County Marine Corps League and Ringing of the Four Fives by Dyersville Fire Department and Delaware County Honor Guard.

Beech was born on July 27, 1937, in Dyersville, Iowa, the son of Herb and Agnes (Marold) Link Sr. He graduated from Xavier High School in Dyersville in 1955. He joined the US Marine Corps, serving from 1956 – 1958 in the Korean War. After his return, he worked for Dubuque Pack Co. retiring after 28 years. He would also work for Alliant where he met many good friends. Beech was a past Councilman, member of the Iowa Fire Association and a 20-year member of the Dyersville fire Department, lifetime member of the Dyersville Sportsman’s Club and St. Francis Xavier Parish. He was inducted into the Dubuque County Firefighters Association Hall of Flame.

Beech had a heart of gold. Deep in faith, he very seldom missed mass on Sunday, sometimes going twice.  When he was unable to go to church he would watch up to three masses on TV.  He prayed the rosary every day.

He was a walking historian. If anyone ever had any questions about the City of Dyersville, all you had to do is ask him. He could tell you who lived in any house, when and who had built it. He could tell you what businesses were in town, who ran them and what they sold. His memory was amazing right up till the end. He was Google before Google.

Beech also enjoyed just sitting with his cooler and snacks at a local parade. He loved to get to the parade early and find “his spot”. Each morning you could find him at various business’s talking to friends or meeting new friends. He truly had a gift to socialize and enjoyed those he met. He really loved the small things in life and time in Dyersville.

Survivors include his sister, Janet Robichaud; nephew, Dr. Marc (Jan) Robichaud; nieces, Lise-Rachelle, Ann-Renee Nowlan, Dr. Rhea Robichaud, Aline Robichaud, Michelle Robichaud; sister-in-law, Judy Link; 11 great-nieces and nephews; and several friends.

Beech was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, David Link; brother-in-law, Dr. Langis Robichaud, and special godmother, Mae Wierzba.

Beech would like to thank staff at fourth floor Mercy Hospital in Dubuque, MercyOne Senior Care, Dyersville Skilled Care, Hospice of Dubuque & Harmony, and Amy and Jason and Mike for the kindness and help they have provided over the past years.

As Herb would say, “God Love You and, Have a nice day!”

Darrell R. Noel

Shawn P. McDermott

Shawn Patrick McDermott, 51, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Shawn will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

Shawn was born September 25, 1974, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Gari and Judith (Palmer) McDermott.

Shawn graduated from Storm Lake St. Mary’s High School and later graduated from Briar Cliff College in Sioux City, IA.

Despite being hearing impaired, Shawn had a deep appreciation for the arts. He enjoyed singing in choir, performing in theater productions, and relaxing while watching movies, especially the original Star Wars films, Ghost Busters, and The Blues Brothers. Music also brought him great joy, and he loved listening to artists such as Weird Al Yankovic, Huey Lewis and the News, and They Might Be Giants, just to name a few. Shawn also had a passion for writing, collecting toy cars, attending car shows, cheering on the New York Giants, and had a great love for animals. He will be remembered for his kind, loving, and gentle spirit, as people were naturally drawn to his warmth and compassion. As one final act of generosity, Shawn was able to help save several lives through organ donation.

Survivors include his siblings, Beth McDermott of Chicago, IL, Jeff McDermott of Dubuque, Russ McDermott of Dickeyville, WI, and Daniel McDermott of St. Paul, MN; nephew, Garrett McDermott; niece, Calla Mae McDermott; and several cousins of the Egan family including, Kris, Greg (Megan), Angie Olds, Kevin, Mike, Julie (Andy) Willenborg, Ron, Amy (Brad) Blum, and Erin (Tim) Sprengelmeyer.

He was preceded in death by his parents; cousin, Laura (Egan) Heiderscheitt, and his aunt and uncles, Gloriann and Patrick Egan, Roland Palmer, and Jon Palmer.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to Dubuque Specialty Care, Finley Hospital ICU, the Iowa Donor Network, and the staff at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home for all of the care and guidance they provided in these last few months and days.

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

Jon Clingman

Jon Clingman, 67, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on June 1, 2026. A gathering will be held from 1 to 3 PM, on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, IL. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be held at a later date.

He was born on August 29, 1958, in Dubuque the son of Roy and Joan (Smith) Clingman. Jon’s passion was in building and supporting his community through his work and life. He was an active member of many organizations including Galena GOATS biking club, and Galena Rotary in addition to his time spent as the owner and proprietor of Clingman Pharmacy in Vinton, IA.

In his free time, he enjoyed biking and exercising, including riding RAGBRAI each July. Those who knew him will remember him for kind heart, willingness to help, and community mindedness. Above all, Jon cherished his family and friends. His love, guidance, and presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

He is survived by his wife Julie, his daughter Emma and son-in-law Zach, a sister, Connie (Dan) Consedine, a brother, Doug (Lea) Clingman, and his nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in support of the Ocular Oncology Excellence Fund to the University of Iowa Center for Advancement, PO Box 4550, Iowa City IA 52244-4550. Please indicate “Gift in memory of Jon Clingman.” Credit card gifts may be made at www.givetoiowa.org/clingman

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Mary Edna Ohnesorge Thielen

Mary Edna (Sheber) Ohnesorge Thielen, affectionally known as “Grannybird,” passed away peacefully at her daughter and son-in-law’s Debra and Ron Hagerty’s home where Mary lived (Epworth, IA), on May 30, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Friends and family may visit from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Paul Gammelin officiating. Burial will follow at Bellevue Cemetery.

Mary was born on January 19, 1936, in Mechanicsville, Iowa, to Edward and Pauline (Spencer) Sheber. She went to school in Lisbon, Iowa. During high school, she babysat and waitressed at a local diner before moving to Dubuque in 1952. On September 25, 1954, she married William “Bill” C. Ohnesorge and together they had six children. Bill preceded her in passing on March 3, 1987. In 1973, Mary began working at Stampfers Dinette. After six years she bought the dinette and ran it for three years. In 1996, Mary moved to Bellevue, Iowa where she married Fred L. Thielen on December 9, 2000. Mary belonged to the VFW of Dubuque, American Legion of Bellevue, and attended St. John’s Lutheran Church.

Mary enjoyed playing cards with friends. She loved playing bingo and taking her grandchildren with her, one of the many memories they cherish. Mary enjoyed camping with her family. She truly enjoyed traveling and has been across the USA, from East to West, including Alaska and Hawaii. She traveled to Canada, Mexico, Wales, England, and Ireland. Most of all Mary/Grannybird cherished her time spent with her family and was known for her entertaining stories of her early years. 

Mary leaves behind her husband Fred L. Thielen; five children Debra (Ron) Hagerty, Melody “Mickie” (Ed) Osburne, Rebecca O. (James) Ohnesorge, Robert “Ohney” (Kimmie) Ohnesorge, and Darla Ohnesorge-Bruns (Chris Cupps, Sr.); daughter-in-law Nancy Ohnesorge; very special niece Jane Heim; 12 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; stepchildren, Alan Thielen, Jane Thielen, and Amy Thielen; sisters-in-law Karen Sheber, Charlotte Ronek and Phyllis Fishnick; and brother-in-law Cliff Heim. 

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Pauline Sheber; her first husband William “Bill” C. Ohnesorge; her son William “Chuck” C., Jr.; grandson Dusty Ohnesorge; great-granddaughter Kaitlyn “Kitten” Ohnesorge; sisters Dorothy Heim and Joann Robinson; brothers Edward, Robert, and Bill; and sister-in-law Carol.

We would like to thank the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kris, Ava, and Jenny, and Eric of AdvoCare. 

Deborah Hirsch

Deborah Hirsch, 72, of Durango, died unexpectedly Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:15 am on Monday, June 8, 2026 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Deborah will be at 11:30 am on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Deborah was born June 20, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Martin and Delores (Scannel) Koenig. On September 11, 1981, she married Paul Hirsch in Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque, IA.

She graduated from Hempstead High School in 1972 and continued her education at Area 1 (NICC). Deborah worked as a registrar at Divine Word for 25 years prior to her retirement.

Deborah found great joy in life’s quieter moments, especially losing herself in the pages of a good book and expressing her creativity through crocheting. Her talented hands crafted countless treasured pieces, each made with care, patience, and love.

Survivors include her husband of 45 years, Paul Hirsch of Durango; three siblings, Mike (Mary) Koenig, Sarah (Mark) Fondell, and Jenny (John) Hochberger all of Dubuque; brother-in-law, Lyle (Nancy) Hirsch; sister-in-law, LaVon Klauer; and several beloved nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; and one brother-in-law, Mel Klauer.

Memorials may be given in Deborah’s name to the American Heart Association.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to the Peosta/Centrailia Fire Dept, Dr. Hillard Salas, MD, and the nurses and staff at UnityPoint Finley Emergency Department for their compassionate care.

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

Eleanor A. Dirks

Eleanor A. “Ellie” Dirks, 72, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Monday morning, June 1, 2026, at MercyOne Genesis Medical Center, East Campus, in Davenport, Iowa.

Eleanor Ann Jones was born on August 4, 1953, in Clinton, Iowa, to Robert C. and Ollie M. (Baughman) Jones. She grew up in Camanche and carried the values of family, hard work, and kindness throughout her life. On May 15, 1971, she was united in marriage to Melvin J. “Spike” Dirks in Camanche, Iowa. To this union, two children were born, Melissa and Michael, who remained a source of great pride and joy to her throughout her life.

Ellie was a hardworking woman who spent many years contributing to the places where she worked and the people around her. She first worked for Pacific Coast Feather in Maquoketa as a filler, and later went to work at Beatrice Cheese in Preston until the plant closed. She then returned to Pacific Coast, where she continued her employment until retirement.

Ellie especially enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. She liked playing Bingo and found happiness in spending time with her husband fishing, camping, and riding the motorcycle. Family was at the center of Ellie’s world, and she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.  Above all, she dearly loved being with her grandchildren and took great joy in spoiling them whenever she could.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Melissa “Missy” (Randy) Cutler of Maquoketa, IA, and Michael “Mike” (Sarah) Dirks of Camanche, IA; 4 grandchildren, Allyson, Rylan, Dakota, and Mikey; and siblings, Violet (Brian) Askren, Dale (Connie), Tom Sr., David, Tuff, Jacob (Penny) and Wade (Kristy).  She was preceded in death by her parents, step-mother Eleanor Jones, husband Melvin “Spike” Dirks on November 24, 2012, and grandchild Tricia.

A celebration of her life will be held at 12 P.M., Monday, June 8, 2026, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M., at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Salem Lutheran Cemetery, Spragueville, Iowa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, an Eleanor A. “Ellie” Dirks memorial fund has been established.

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

Riley M. Pfeiler

Riley M. Pfeiler of Holy Cross died by suicide on Sunday, May 31, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 7:00 pm on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue Monday from 8:45 am – 9:45 am at the funeral home in Dyersville.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross.  Committal prayers will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate with Rev. Carl Ries concelebrating. Deacon Mark Otting will assist.  

Riley was born July 6, 1996, to Mike and Lori (Krause) Pfeiler.  He grew up in Holy Cross and graduated from Western Dubuque High School with the class of 2014.  Riley was a gifted athlete excelling in track and field, baseball, football and basketball.  Riley later attended UNI and graduated with a degree in finance and real estate in 2018.  Riley enjoyed Hawkeye football, the Dallas Cowboys, golfing and spending time with those he loved, especially his dog, Nala.

Riley was kind, respectful, and the life of the party.  He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and could light up any room he walked into.  Riley was always asking about others even when he was silently struggling.  His Mom was always his rock and biggest supporter.  He could count on her love and guidance and unwavering support.  He shared many interests with his dad, though their ongoing debate over who had the better shoe collection may never be settled.  His presence, energy and genuine care for people will deeply be missed.

Riley is survived by his parents; sister, Regann (Bryce) Simon; grandparents: Gary Krause and Dan and Grace Pfeiler; aunts and uncles: Tim (Kelly) Krause and their sons, Jadyn and Max; Amy (Doug) Pfeiler-Wunder and daughter, Annabel; and Amanda (Kyle) Krambeck and their children, Keldon and Alayna; and great-grandmother, Eldora Pfeiler Pins.  Riley also leaves behind his beloved dog Nala.     

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Connie Krause. 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to NAMI Dubuque and Julie Homb – Homb Therapy, as well as his friends and family, for all their support, kindness and love during this difficult time. 

A Riley Pfeiler Memorial Fund has been established and memorials are preferred.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home (Dyersville, Guttenberg, Garnavillo, Monticello, Holy Cross) is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.