Obituaries Archive

Rita L. Gavin

Rita L. Gavin, 98 of Cascade, Iowa passed away Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, Iowa.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at. St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade with burial in Calvary Cemetery.  Rev. Douglas Loecke will officiate.

Rita was born on August 5, 1926, at home in rural Otter Creek, Iowa, daughter of Thomas and Anna (Small) Dunne. She received her education in a one room school near her parents’ farm and at St. Lawrence School in Otter Creek.  On October 26, 1944, she married Oscar Gavin at St. Lawrence Church in Otter Creek.  Together they farmed in the rural Cascade area, raising nine children.  Oscar preceded her in death on March 31, 1978.  Rita cherished her Catholic faith, her family and her Irish heritage.

Survivors include her children: Thad (Linda) Gavin, Coralville, Corlas (Bob) Bildstein, Dubuque, Randy (Brenda) Gavin, Cascade, Clay (Diane) Gavin, North Liberty, Brian (fiancé Laura Boeckenstedt) Gavin, Manchester, DaRae (Kevin) Coughlin, Cross Plains, WI, and Amy Vorwald, Dyersville, grandchildren: Chris (Lin) Gavin, Lisa Gavin, Meghan Gavin, Brett (Katie) Bildstein, Brianne (Kent) Foulker, Kay (Aaron) Hornbrook, Jason Gavin, Nick Gavin, Erin (Travis) Foster, Jesse Gavin, Shane (Bree) Gavin, Andrew (Megan) Edwards-Coughlin, Cameron Coughlin, Tyler Vorwald, Riley (Erin) Vorwald, great-grandchildren: Dale Gavin, Izze Gavin, Kinzie Gavin, Brennan Gavin, Aimsley Gavin, Brooks Bildstein, Everett Bildstein, Amelia Foulker, Shawn Hornbrook, Leo Gavin, Eli Gavin, Carter Foster, Madison Foster, Rowan Gavin, Piper Gavin, Avery Edwards, Rory Vorwald, Fae Vorwald, great-great grandchild, Scarlett Gavin, and very special friends: Inge Taylor and Nick (Gabby) Taylor.

She was also preceded in death by her parents and sons: Rodney Gavin and Eric Gavin.

The family is extremely grateful to the nurses and staff at Accura Care Center, Sherry Kelchen ARNP, Rev. Mark Osterhaus, and Hospice of Dubuque staff, especially Kris, for the excellent care they gave to Rita.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the charity of your choice.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

LaVonne L. Kueter

LaVonne L. (Scholtes) Kueter, 80, of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.  Funeral Mass 10:30 am, Monday, April 14, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, April 13, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Brian W. Bonney

Brian W. Bonney, 63, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at his home in Lost Nation.

Brian W. Bonney was born on November 14, 1961 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Harold and Rosemary (Kiesling) Bonney.  He was united in marriage to Jill Wirth on August 7, 1982, at the Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation.

Brian farmed for Duane Rutenbeck of Lost Nation in his younger years. He started driving semi’s first for Ray Hainstock on long hauls and hauling cattle in the area and out of state.  He then drove for Kinney Trucking of DeWitt hauling grain.  Brian also drove for Roger Kinney Trucking and for Crystal Creek Enterprises of Grand Mound.  If it was a Peterbilt Semi, he was in it.  Brian also had a passion for stock car racing.  He raced for many years at the Maquoketa Speedway and traveled to drive in many races around the state. Brian and his family traveled to many NASCAR races in Michigan, also seeing races at Talladega, Bristol and Kansas.  Brian also enjoyed going on side-by-side rides and could always be found tinkering in his garage, sometimes with a Busch Light.  He had a love of music, ranging from country and oldies to rock and roll.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife Jill Bonney of Lost Nation; his son Zach (Jordan) Bonney of Lost Nation; his siblings, Brad (Sandy) Bonney of Maquoketa, IA, Vicki Hulke of Oxford Junction, IA, and Brent Bonney of Dubuque, IA; a granddaughter, Brooklynn Hamilton, and a grandchild on the way; his mother-in-law, Barbara Wirth of Lost Nation; his sisters-in-law, Brenda Smith of Lost Nation, Joy (Bob) Beuthien of Ashland, MO, and Terri (Tom) Hovar of South Dakota, and Lisa Wirth of Lost Nation; a brother-in-law, Tim Wirth (Michelle) of Lost Nation; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Kevin and Kenneth Bonney; father-in-law Gerald Wirth; and brothers-in-law Lynn Smith and Lanny Hulke.

A gathering of family and friends celebrating his life will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, April 14, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites have been accorded.

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

Timothy H. Fuller

Timothy H. Fuller, 52, of Peosta, Iowa passed away after a sudden illness on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025, at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital.

Visitation for Tim will be on Monday, April 14th, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 15th at the funeral home. Private burial will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Tim was born on November 25th, 1972, in Galena, IL the son of Harold and Dorothy (Jones) Fuller. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and was recently employed with First Supply Company.

He was an avid football fan, especially a Green Bay Packer fan. He loved spending time with his children and watching movies with Emilee.

Tim was an outgoing and a true people person, he loved meeting new people. If you were fortunate enough to meet him, you quickly became his friend. He will be deeply missed, and his friendship will be cherished by so many.

He is survived by his three children: Paxton (fiancé Mariah), Ayden and Hailie. His fiancé Rozi “Rose Bud”, and her daughter Emilee; his mother Dorothy, his brother Adam and his faithful companion “Gabby” the dog.

Tim was preceded in death by his father Harold on September 10, 2024, and numerous other family members.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Finley ER staff and to Leonard Funeral Home for all their care and compassion they provided.

Dale J. Kenniker

Dale Joseph Kenniker, 60, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home with family and friends at his side on April 5, 2025.

No services will be held.

Dale was born February 22, 1965, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Kay and Jackie Kenniker.

He graduated Senior High School and soon became a mechanic and semi driver. He had a true passion for the road all of his life. He married Tina Block and they had three children. He enjoyed watching them grow, and his family was everything to him. In his free time, he enjoyed the casino and Shot Tower pizza. He loved making others laugh and would always try to scare those around him as a joke- BOO. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his mother, Jackie Kenniker; two brothers, David Kenniker and Dennis Kenniker; three children, Jacob (Amy) Kenniker, Joey (Jessica) Kenniker, and Steph Haupert; nine grandchildren; and four great-grand-children..

The family would like to extend a thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Hills and Dale’s, and the Dubuque Fire Department for the great care. An extra special thank you Shuree for the laughter and company.

Your shift is over driver, you can rest easy now.

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 Dale’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

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Terry J. LeConte

Terry J. LeConte, 53, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 7, 2025, at home surrounded by his loving family following a courageous battle with Colon cancer

Friends and family may visit from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Wake Service will begin at 12:45 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 14, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, with Monsignor Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Terry was born January 30th, 1972, to Leonard and Doris (Clemen) LeConte. He worked for LeConte Construction and farmed most of his life. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, camping, watching his kids’ sporting events and keeping his farm toys in pristine condition. His memory will never be forgotten by all that knew him.

He is survived by his wife Bonnie of 28 years, his children Tyler (Emma), Paige (Collin) and Lexie LeConte, his parents Leonard and Doris, siblings Kevin, Kim (Steve) Tauke and Lynn (Craig) Kloft, mother-in-law Sue Bries, brother-in-law Jeff (Zelie) Bries and many nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was proceeded in death by his grandparents Albin and Melinda Clemen, Peter and Adeline LeConte and father-in-law Jerry Bries.

The family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and Tammi Noonan and all of the nurses that drew the short straw on his chemo days.

In lieu of flowers, a Terry LeConte Memorial Fund has been established.

Verda M. Pattison

Verda M. Pattison passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at the home of her son David in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Verda Margaret Pattison was born on December 19, 1934 to Jesse and Mary Stroup, in Kennewick, Washington. Verda grew up in the small town of Weston in Eastern Oregon with her two brothers and four sisters. She graduated with honors from Weston Union High School after four busy years of club, sports, and leadership activities. She attended La Verne College in La Verne, California where she met Jim Pattison. They were married on January 27, 1956 and graduated together the following year. They were married for 64 years until Jim’s death in 2020.

Verda and Jim had four children. They resided in Mt. Baldy, California, while their children were young and Verda had a small clerical business. She filled in as a kindergarten teacher at the village school on a provisional teaching certificate and eventually relocated to the Palm Springs area where Verda taught elementary school for many years. She attained a Masters Degree, became a school site coordinator and retired after 30 years with the Palm Springs Unified School District.

She enjoyed her retirement in the desert, in Lynden, Washington and Dubuque, Iowa. Verda and Jim were active in Church and Missions for many years, volunteering with various congregations and Christian organizations supporting Missions around the world. She enjoyed crafting, reading and traveling.

She is survived by her three children sons David (Jane) of Grand Prairie, TX; Tim (Michelle) of Yuma, AZ and daughter Tina Jensen (Steven) of Dubuque, IA; eight grandchildren and one great- granddaughter; her brother Stanley Stroup; sisters Kathryn Hunter, Ellen Gilbert, Wilma (John) Leyendecker, and Rosalyn Stroup.

She was preceded in death by husband Jim, her brother, David Stroup and her son, Michael.

Richard D. Current

Richard Dean “Rich” Current, 82, of Maquoketa, Iowa, a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, Iowa.

Richard was born to James and Daisy (Wray) Current Sr., on April 23, 1942 in Maquoketa, Iowa. He was a graduate of Maquoketa High School, and married the love of his life, Shirley Kay Nabb, on June 30, 1963, in Maquoketa, Iowa.

In Oct of of 1966, he answered the call of service by joining the U.S. Army. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him numerous accolades, including a Purple Heart, reflecting his dedication and sacrifice for his country. Upon returning home, he and Shirley welcomed two children, Pamela and Cory, into the world, and nurtured a family that would be his pride and joy.

Rich’s work ethic was unparalleled, starting at Alcoa in Davenport before moving back to Maquoketa in 1976. There, he worked at C & N Automotive with his brother-in-law, Lloyd Nabb, before eventually retiring from WADY Industries. His professional life was marked by the same integrity and commitment that defined his military service.

Beyond his work and service, Rich was a man of many interests and an active member of his community. He was a familiar face at the Coronado Car Club in Maquoketa, a lifetime member of the Maquoketa VFW #3633 O’Connor-Regenwether, a former Boy Scout Leader, and a member of the Knights of Pythias Lodge. His passion for stock car races was well-known, as was his love for playing cards and visiting the casino. However, it was his role as a volunteer that truly showcased his generous spirit, always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

Rich’s greatest joy was found in the time he spent with his family, particularly his three grandchildren, Micayla, Derek, and Rebekah and his nieces and nephews. His presence at family gatherings, his laughter during card games, and his wisdom shared during quiet moments will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Pamela (Marty) Eganhouse of Anamosa, IA, and Cory (Scarlet) Current of St. Louis, MO; his siblings, James Current Jr. of Maquoketa, IA, and Donna Said of Maquoketa, IA; his three grandchildren, Micayla (Bryce) Hettinger of Cedar Rapids, IA, Derek Eganhouse of Anamosa, IA, and Rebekah Stever of Chico, CA; and many loving nieces and nephews. Rich was preceded in death by his father James Current Sr., his mother and stepfather Daisy and Art Otto, his beloved wife Shirley Current, his brothers Robert, George, and Donald Current, and his sister Beverly Durkop.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10 A.M., Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Friday, April 11, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation will follow the services, and inurnment will be at Union Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa, at a later date.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Richard D. “Rich” Current memorial fund has been established.

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

Rosalita V. Brass

Rosalita V. Brass, 80, of Asbury, died Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

Visitation for Rosalita will be from 9:30 am until 11:15 am Friday, April 11, 2025 at First Baptist Church, 2143 Judson Drive in Dubuque.  The Funeral Service will follow at 11:30 am with Reverand Timothy Bees officiating.  Burial will be in Oak Wood Cemetery in Ackley, IA at a later date.

Rosalita was born December 17, 1944, in Iowa Falls, IA, the daughter of Robert and Gertrude Klooster Renken. She was the third of four children and grew up on the family farm near Wellsburg, IA.  Rose graduated from Wellsburg High School and Ellsworth Community College in Iowa Falls.  Her first full-time employment was at Parkersburg State Bank in Parkersburg, IA.

From a casual knowledge of each other at Ellsworth, to an opportunistic meeting in Ackley, she met Ronald Brass in 1966. There was a mutual attraction and they were married on December 17, 1967, at Aplington Baptist Church in Aplington, IA. They briefly resided in Falls Church, Virginia before Ron was deployed to Vietnam. Back together again, Rose and Ron moved to Ames, IA, so Ron could complete his education. Rose supported Ron with a position at University Bank in Ames.

In 1969, Rose and Ron relocated to Bettendorf, Iowa, where their daughter, Stacy, was born in 1971. Rose embraced life as a full-time mother, dedicating herself to helping family and friends, volunteering in the community, and developing her crafting skills. She was deeply devoted to Stacy’s schooling and activities, never missing a single event and always offering unwavering support. Her bond with loved ones was exceptional. She made it a priority to keep connections strong across generations, from cousins to nieces and nephews, and even their children. She brought everyone together through family picnics and special events-each one thoughtfully documented with photos and heartfelt write-ups, carefully placed into cherished albums.

She had an unwavering faith and was a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Dubuque. Her love for children shone through her 25 years as a Sunday school teacher, and she also gave her time visiting elderly women in the church community. She generously shared her creativity, using her crafting talents to make banners for the church, as well as handmade gifts for family, friends and the children she loved. She had a special love for gardening-roses were her favorite, but she also enjoyed planting tulips and other spring flowers. An excellent baker, she was known for her delicious sugar cookies. She took pride in her home and had a wonderful circle of friends. She had a gift for making everyone feel welcome and was someone who could engage anyone in a conversation.

Survivors include her husband, Ron; one daughter, Stacy Brass of West Des Moines, IA; one sister, Rosemary (Doug) Neymeyer of Ackley, IA; two brothers-in-law, Dale (Carlleen) Brass and Merlyn (Linda) Brass, both of Ackley, IA; and one sister-in-law, Marcia Renken of Iowa Falls, IA; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one daughter at birth in 1974, Jodi Lyn, one brother, Robert G. Renken, and one sister, Roberta (Harold) Aukes.

The American Diabetes Association and the ALS Association will be the favored charities for memorials received by the family.

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

Luella M. Pape

Luella M. Pape of Dubuque, died peacefully Saturday, April 5, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian burial will be at 12:00 p.m., Thursday, April 10, 2025, at Resurrection Catholic Church, with Rev. Mark Ressler officiating. Visitation will be held 9:00-11:15 a.m., at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. A private family burial will be held at later date.

Luella was born on October 13, 1933 in Balltown, IA, daughter of Edward and Avalona (Stillmunkes) Link.
She was united in marriage to LaVern Pape, the love of her life, on June 19, 1954, at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque, IA. He preceded her in death on October 21, 2022. Lou was an active and involved mother raising four children, and later worked for 18 years in the Dubuque Community School System assisting students with special needs.

If there is one thing Lou exemplified in her life, it was the importance of community. She was a devoted wife, proud of her husband Vern until the very end. Consistent and dependable, she was the family member who was the first to arrive with a large plate of baked goods. Lou was a true friend, open to conversation with anyone, and always ready for a game of euchre.

Her family left to cherish her memories are: Her daughter Diane (Tim) Weitzel; sons Mike (Theresa) Pape, Kevin (Dawn) Pape; grandchildren, Bradley (Meaghan) Weitzel, Erica Weitzel, Skylar Pape, Ariana Pape, Mason Pape, Maxwell Pape; great grandchildren, Mia, William, & Hannah Weitzel; brother in-law Eldon Pape; sister-in law Maureen Pape; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, LaVern Pape; son Curtis Pape; sister Armella (Emil) Meyer; brothers, LaVern (Dorothy) Link, Norman (Joanne) Link, Delbert (Lucille) Link; In-Laws, Norbert Pape, Bernice (Burt) Albrecht, Betty Pape; niece Kathy Decker and nephews Robert Link, Paul Link.

Special thank you to the wonderful Hospice of Dubuque nurses and caregivers, especially Julie, Nicole, and Jill. The kindness and support they have given Lou in the last few months was a blessing.
In lieu of flowers donations may be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

Gwen Blakeman

Gwen Blakeman, 91, of Dubuque, died Friday, April 4, 2025, at the MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque.

There will be no visitation or services.

Gwendolyn was born June 7, 1933, in Dubuque, the daughter of Kai and Kathryn (Noehl) Sommers

She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She enjoyed sewing, loved nature and animals, and cherished time with her grandchildren.

Survivors include two daughters, Karen Blakeman and Kristine Blakeman both of Dubuque; one son, Kent (Sarah) Blakeman of Dubuque; seven grandchildren, Brian Koster, Amy Koster, Anthony Williams, Carissa (Josiah) Downs, Jacoby Blakeman, Colin Blakeman, and Camden Blakeman; five great-grandchildren, Alaina Downs, Jolina Downs, Leona Downs, Aaliyah Koster, and Gabrielle Koster; one sister-in-law, Margo Sommer; and her faithful companion, Chico.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, one son, Kevin Blakeman, one brother, Ken Sommer, and one sister, Mary Sommer.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to our sister Karen, who took such good care of our mother, and to Randy Perry of Dubuque.

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

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

Eldora S. Steines

Eldora Susan (Wilming) Steines, 92, of Bellevue, passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at Mill Valley Care Center surrounded by her family. Funeral Mass 10:30 am, Thursday, April 10, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am prior to Mass at the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Deacon James J. Thill Sr.

Deacon James J. Thill Sr., 82, of Dubuque, died Sunday, April 6, 2025, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:30 pm Thursday, April 10, 2025 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church where a prayer service will be held at 7:30 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Deacon Jim will be 10:00 am Friday, April 11, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Archbishop Thomas Zinkula as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

James was born January 3, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Gerald  and Marjorie Apel Thill. He attended grade school at Sacred Heart and graduated from Wahlert High School. He attended multiple Continuing Education Sessions and Conferences at the University of Notre Dame. As a teenager and into middle age, he enjoyed playing softball in city recreation league, handball, sandlot basketball and soccer, golfing, and bowling. He played the guitar for about 30 years. As a young teenager, he went to work at Bassler’s Shoe Store for eight years and then worked for 39 years as a journeyman meat cutter in the retail market at the “Pack”. He was a member and leader in the United Food and Commercial Works Union Local 431.

Jim was a life-long member of Holy Spirit Parish and a member of the Holy Name Society (men’s club). On September 15, 1962, he married Sandra Jones in Sacred Heart Church and devoted his life to his marriage and his family. He confided in a few close confidants, “If I fail as a husband and a father, nothing else really matters.” Strong believers in Catholic School education, Jim and Sandy graduated all their children from Wahlert High School. Sandy preceded him in death on September 5, 2016. They were among the founding members and leaders of the Living Word Catholic Charismatic Pray Group for 55 years. In Charismatic Renewal, he served on the National Advisory Council to the National Service Committee for 24 years and was a member of multiple Conference Leadership Teams at conferences throughout the United States in those years. In 1990, he attended, by invitation only representing the United States, a nine day conference on The Holy Spirit and Evangelization in Rome, Italy. He was very active in Christian Experience Weekends for a long time. In 2007, he received the duty to God Award for helping further the mission of Scouting in the Catholic Church. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 510. He was a member of the ad hoc committee that developed the Directory for the Permanent Diaconate in the Archdiocese of Dubuque. He was a speaker at conferences, days of renewal, evenings of renewal, study clubs and facilitated bible sharing groups and bible study groups over the years. He developed and led a Confirmation Preparation Program in the parish. He served on various committees in the parish: liturgy committee, evangelization committee, parish life committee, and pastoral council. He began full-time service in the parish in 2000 as a Pastoral Associate. He found great joy in visiting the classrooms at Holy Ghost School. On October 22, 2005, he was ordained a permanent deacon for the Archdiocese of Dubuque and since then has been assigned ministry in Holy Spirit Parish, Dubuque. He was a strong encourager…wanting to activate and animate the lay faithful in their roles of service.

He often said, “The most profound thing that could be said of someone is that they were a person of faith, family, and friends.” He tried to live his life according to that belief. He used to think you had to go somewhere to do some big thing to experience the glory and kingdom of God but he discovered that puttzing around the garage with his son, dad-daughter date nights, trying to teach his kids how to ski, his kids concerts, choir programs, recitals and plays, family picnics and gatherings, weekly date nights with Sandy, and things like this is where the kingdom of God and the glory of God is found and can be readily seen. Jim and Sandy’s family celebrations of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, as well as other holidays were celebrations of the glory of God found in their family.

Survivors include his three children, James (Jennifer) Thill, Jr., Kelly LeGrand, and Renee (Harold) Benedict, all of Dubuque, IA; 12 grandchildren, Lisa (Steve) McGrath, Caitlynn (Alex) Helbing, Jacob Thill, Sadie Thill, Wyatt Thill, Lucas (Morgan) LeGrand, Travis (Jaidyn Behrle) LeGrand, Trenton Wolbers, Heather (Jharid) Minor, Alisha (Charles Rubio) Weis, Zshawn Weis, and Malysa (Darren) Hanson; ten great-grandchildren, Collin and Maxwell McGrath, Leo and Lincoln Helbing, Crew and Coen LeGrand, Nicholas Ray LeGrand, and Maialyn and Charles Rubio, and Zshawn Luke Weis; one son-in-law, Curtis Wolbers of Eldridge, IA; his four siblings, Thomas (Diane) Thill of Dubuque, Barbara Jungk of Houston, TX, Dennis Thill, and Gary (Lory) Thill, all of Dubuque; and in-laws, Barbara Fecker and Susan Jones of Dubuque, Steve Jones of Maquoketa, and Jean Jones of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by one daughter, Roberta Wolbers, two grandsons, Nicholas LeGrand and Hunter Thill, his parents, his father- and mother-in-law, Robert Sr. and Mildred Jones, two sisters-in-law, Judith (Delbert) Bischoff, Joyce Thill, and three brothers-in-law, Ronald Jones, Joseph Fecker, and Robert Jones Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Deacon James J. Thill Sr. Memorial Fund.

The family would like to thank the priests, staff, and people of Holy Spirit Parish and the Diaconate Community for your love and compassion.

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 Deacon Jim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Linda A. Slattery

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Linda A. Slattery, 76, of Dubuque, Iowa, on April 4, 2025. She passed peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Linda was born on July 7, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter of Robert and Virginia (Hubbard) Ring.  She shared numerous, happily married years to her husband, Donald Slattery. Together they raised four children. She worked for many years in data management at Trilog and as a customer service sales representative at The Swiss Colony. She found her greatest joy at home, surrounded by family.

Linda was always filling life with warmth and laughter. She enjoyed cooking and baking for others, gardening, and spending time with the people she loved most. Linda was adventurous. She found pleasure in traveling to new places, attending live musicals, and camping and relaxing on the river when she was younger. She was skilled at home improvement projects and never hesitated to start a new DIY project on her own. Linda embraced every moment and made lasting memories along the way.

Family meant everything to Linda. Her gentle nature, kindness, humor, and effortless way of making every family gathering special brought joy to everyone. She had a gift for creating meaningful moments, always focused on spending quality time with the people she cared for most.

It’s difficult to imagine life without her steady love, wisdom, and support. She will be missed terribly. She was a selfless caregiver. The world feels a little smaller without Linda in it—but her example, her strength, and the way she lived will continue to guide us. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who loved her, and we’ll always feel her presence leading us forward, just as she always did.

Those left to cherish the memory of Linda include,

her loving husband,
Donald Slattery, Sr., Dubuque, IA;

her adored children,
Laura (Steven Caisse) Payne, Palm Coast, FL,
Donald (Gerlie) Slattery, Jr., Galena, IL,
and Andrew (Consolata) Slattery, Grimes, IA;

her seven cherished grandchildren,
Kevin (Kahlei) Payne, Jr., Alyssa Payne; Kayla Slattery, Rhea Bautista, and Travis Slattery; Cole Slattery, Cade Slattery;

her two great-granddaughters,
Evelynn and Eleanor Payne;

her brother,
Daniel Ring, Bernard, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents; her stepfather, Herman Motsch; her son, Timothy Slattery; and her siblings, Randall (Sandra) Ring, Barbara McDermott, Susan Doerr, and Wayne Ring.

A private celebration of her life is planned with her immediate family.

The family would like to thank all of those who have been involved in her care and for the Tri-State Cremation Center for assisting the family throughout these hard times.

Online condolences may be shared at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Verna M. Lueck

Verna Mae Lueck, 93, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Thursday, April 3, 2025 at Mercy One in Dyersville surrounded by her family.

Private family visitation will be held at Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, where a private funeral service will follow with Rev. Phillip Agyei. Burial will follow in St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in Dyersville.

Verna Mae was born October 3, 1931 in Petersburg, Iowa, the daughter of Anton “Tony” and Marcella (Kruse) Putz. She received her education at Petersburg school. On January 21, 1954, she was united in marriage to Donald W. Lueck at SS. Peter and Paul Church in Petersburg.

Verna Mae and Don owned and operated a dairy farm west of Dyersville. Verna Mae loved life on the farm, especially tending to her large garden and working with her beloved cows. Her strong work ethic, perseverance and heart of gold have made a lasting impact on all who loved her. Verna Mae was a devoted wife and the most loving and nurturing mother, grandma and great-grandma. Her family and her “kids” were her entire life. They will cherish so many memories, including her hand-written letters, her birthday roses, her never-ending candy tray, family gatherings with her famous deviled eggs, competitive games of Old Maid, her joyful laugh and her healing hugs. Everyone deserves to have a ‘Grandma Verna’ in their life and we were so blessed to have had you. We’ll love you, “forever more”.

Verna Mae is survived by her husband, Don; one daughter, Joyce (Jerry) Tucker of Dyersville; three grandchildren, Janelle Tucker of Dyersville, Jill (Jim) Mitchel of Dyersville and Jeff Tucker (special friend, Kindra) of Davenport; three great-grandchildren, James, Lauren and Logan Mitchel; four sister-in-laws, Agnes Putz of Dyersville, Grace Putz of Cedar Rapids, Ruth Willenborg of Dyersville and Judy Putz of East Dubuque, Illinois; and many nieces, nephews and godchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Pearl (Alvin) Gaul and Alice Putz; five brothers, Walter Putz, Harold Putz, Fred Putz, David (Delores) Putz and Jerry Putz; her father and mother-in-law, Aloysius and Emma (Klaus) Lueck; and in-laws, Marilyn (Paul) Schaul, Delores (Julius) Recker, Sally (Ray) Langel and Fred Willenborg.

The family of Verna Mae would like to thank Mercy One Dyersville, Fr. Chris Podhajsky, Fr. Agyei, the Iowa City VA Clinic, Regional Medical Center and especially Mary, Skylar and Dr. Snyder.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com.