Obituaries Archive

Alice A. Besler

Alice A. Besler, 79, of Worthington, Iowa, passed away, Thursday, July 4, 2024 at MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Alice will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, July 7,2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held 1:30 p.m.  Visitation will also continue after 9 a.m. on Monday, July 8, 2024, at the funeral home.

Services for Alice will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 8, 2024, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Worthington, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus Presiding and Rev. Chris Podhajsky concelebrating.  Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa.

Alice Ann Boge was born on the family farm northeast of Farley on August 4th of 1944 to Ralph & Jeanette (Naber) Boge. She graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1962. After graduation, she worked for Attorney T.J. Gilloon in Dyersville, IA and later for Great Plains Supply Company in Farley, IA.

On New Year’s Eve, 1964, at the Worthington Memorial Hall, she met the love of her life, Robert A. Besler. They were married at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley on September 17, 1966. They were married for 52 years. Together they had seven children and they farmed on the Besler Century Farm.

Alice was a true country girl. She loved the farm, working alongside her husband, milking cows, raising hogs and she especially loved taking care of her chickens. Alice loved all kinds of music (especially old-time country, polka, waltz and big band) and she loved to sing and dance in her kitchen. She loved to bake and cook for Bob and her family and always enjoyed the holidays having her family join her for the delicious meal she prepared for them. Family meant everything to her. She truly loved Bob with all her heart as well as her children and grandchildren.

Alice was a member of St. Paul’s Catholic Church and the Altar & Rosary Society in Worthington, IA. She was a devout Catholic and she loved to pray the rosary daily.

Alice is survived by six children: Kathryn (Wayne) Decker of Holy Cross, IA; Robert J. (Jodee) Besler of Hopkinton, IA; Janet Hoeger of Manchester, IA; Ronald (Courtney) Besler of Dyersville, IA; Alan (Jill) Besler of Worthington, IA; and Steven (Elle) Besler of Hopkinton, IA; 12 grandchildren: Brian (Taylor) Decker of Ankeny, IA; Becky (Ezra) Lange of Des Moines, IA; Danielle Besler of Farley, IA; Jacob Besler of Worthington, IA; Madelyn and Ellie Hoeger of Manchester, IA; Hanah Besler of Dyersville, IA; and Kaitlyn, Natalie, Addison, Caleb and Lauren Besler of Worthington, IA; three siblings: LouAnn Kozicki and Marilyn (Harry) Bortel both of Green Bay, WI; and Roger (Mary) Boge of Farley, IA; one brother-in-law, Charles Kluesner of Farley, IA; and one sister-in-law, Janice Besler of Dyersville, IA.

She is preceded in death by: her husband, Robert A. Besler on June 15, 2019 and her daughter, Karen M. Besler on January 10, 1969; her parents, Ralph and Jeanette Boge; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Edwin and Armella Besler; her sister, Arlene Kluesner; her brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws: Michael Kozicki, Donald Besler, Jerome and Monica Besler, Louis Besler, John and Norma Jean Rave and Joseph and Lila Mae Sperfslage.

An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Jeanette L. Demmer

Jeanette Lois Demmer, 92, of Greeley, IA beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, was called to her heavenly home on July 1. 2024.

Jean was blessed with a long and full life. She was born on May 9, 1932 in Liberty, WI to her loving parents Harold and Agnes (Schumacher) Jacobson. She grew up on a farm in Cashton, WI with her 5 sisters and 3 brothers.  Farming, family and music were the center of their lives.

Jean graduated from Cashton High School. She married Irvin Marx, Sr. on May 9, 1950. Irvin and Jean had  3 sons and 4 daughters.  Irv’s work in the dairy industry led them on adventures through Wisconsin, North Dakota, and Iowa until his death on April 21, 2000.

God said that man should not be alone and joined Loras Demmer and Jean in marriage on June 24, 2005. They have spent the last 19 years enjoying their farm, travels to Texas, their late puppy Paquita, and their many grandchildren and great/great great grandchildren.

Jean was involved with the Federated Women’s Club and American Legion Auxiliary Post 137 in Dyersville, IA. She is known for her kind, loving demeanor, devotion to her family and friends and appreciating the value of a good hair day. Jean never met a jumpsuit she didn’t like and never had a shortage of Certs to share or lipstick blotted papers in her purse.  She enjoyed sister tea parties, playing cards, singing, dancing polka, western movies, music and baking. Everyone cherishes the recipes for her chocolate cake, pumpkin bars, cinnamon rolls and the coveted sugar cookie recipe. Unfortunately, all of us try to emulate these recipes, but they just don’t quite measure up to hers. Must be the love only she could put into them.

Jean is survived by her husband, Loras; her children, Kathleen Marx (wife of Butch Marx) of Dallas, TX; Susan (Ronald) Thole of Dyersville, IA; Judy (Lonnie) Fry of Greeley, IA; Jane Moriarity (Gary Chapman) of Manchester, IA; Jennifer (Kent) Thoe of Ventura, IA; Kevin (Doris) Demmer of Dyersville, IA and Dan Demmer of Fairfax, IA; 19 grandchildren, Michelle (Tony) Sly; Randy (Lisa) Thole; Jason (Danielle) Thole; Cheryl (Mario) Habaue; Jessica (Scott) Bolsinger;  Tami (Eric) Hansel;  Cassie (Jeremy) Rinke; Waylon (Robyn) Fry; Jamie (John) Gronewold; Ryan (Katie) Moriarity; Barry (Julia) Moriarity; Amanda (Drake) Stadtlander; Zachary Thoe; Braden Thoe; Brian (Lisa) Demmer, Heidi (Chris) Smith, Nicole (Ryan)Plummer; Tara (Tyler) Nielsen; Abby (Michael) Ruether; 38 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren and several more on the way; siblings Dee Hansen; Alta (George) Buehl, Gary (Diane) Jacobson; Alan Jacobson; and Diane Koebler.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Irvin Marx, Sr., children Joseph; Irvin, Jr. and David;  sisters Pat Willenbring and Avy Widner,  brother David Jacobson and several in laws.

The family would like to thank Dr. Christiansen, Regional Medical Center, Edgewood Convalescent Home, St. Croix Hospice and their personnel.

Friends may call from 2 – 7 p.m. on  Friday, July 12, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home, 750 12th Ave SW in Dyersville, IA.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday July 13, 2024, at St. Mark’s Catholic Church in Edgewood, IA with a one-hour visitation at church before mass with burial in the St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, IA.   Rev. John Haugen will officiate.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Betsy J. Heister

Betsy J. “Pat” Heister, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at home.

Betsy Jane DeLarm was born on May 10, 1936 in Calamus, Iowa, to Archie and Laura (Shirley) DeLarm.  She had worked as a Certified Nurses Aide for over 38 years.  Prior to that she had worked for the Fishing Tackle Company for 5 years, Clinton Engines for a year, and Ensign Coil in Cascade for 9 years.

“Pat” loved all children.  She was a selfless person who loved helping others and always put others needs first.

Those left to honor her memory include children, Rodney Heister of Sabula, IA, and Beverly Koontz of Maquoketa, IA; 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild; brothers, Jerry DeLarm of Maquoketa, IA, and Clifford (Deb) DeLarm of Monmouth, IA; sisters, Linda Eby of Wyoming, IA, and Donna Burroughs of Marion, IA; and several nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, son William Robert Heister, brothers Lavern and Eugene, sisters Betty Etten and Bessie Huffman, and grandchildren Amanda Marie Heister and Kyle Miller.

A private family visitation will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Cremation rites will be accorded, and a private burial will be at the Buckhorn Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

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

Gwenith Burk

Gwenith “Marguerite” Burk, 82, of Dubuque, IA passed away on Saturday, June 29, 2024. Visitation will be from 4 to 7pm, Friday, July 5, at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, July 6, at St Columbkille’s Catholic Church. Burial will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the funeral service can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Marguerite Burk was born on February 8, 1942 to Francis W. and Gwenith (Grant) Blake in Kansas City, Kansas. Marguerite graduated from Bishop Ward High School where she actively participated in theater, dance, and track and was once said to be “the fastest girl in Kansas City”. After high school she was tasked with the challenge of helping to wrangle her four nephews in California, a time she reflected on fondly…mostly.  Marguerite married Larry Burk on December 22, 1964. She supported him through his MBA studies by working at a travel agency and together they moved all over the country for Larry’s career, finally settling in Dubuque, IA where together they raised four children.

As her kids got older, Marguerite invested in her love of antiques, and enjoyed attending auctions to find pieces, refinishing and reselling her finds.  She was also an avid card player and enjoyed her decades-long bridge club, where she developed lifelong friendships, which she cherished.

Marguerite’s quiet strength and love for her family will always be remembered. She was most proud of her title of mother and grandmother. She always went above and beyond for her kids, volunteering to run activities, chaperone field trips and handmade chocolate treats for Valentine’s Day.  She loved spending time with her family, playing competitive games of Acquire, beating her grandkids in Euchre, showing off her dance moves, and an occasional trip to the casino.

Marguerite was preceded in death by her husband Larry, parents Francis and Gwenith Blake, and two brothers, Bud and Jim Blake, and brother-in-law John Colteaux.

Left to remember Marguerite are her children: Jason (Nancy) Burk, Goodland, KS, Genevieve (Erik) Sogge, San Jose, CA, Ryan (Nellie) Burk, Peosta, IA and Nathan (Jessica) Burk, Los Angeles, CA; her 9 grandchildren, Ethan, Simon, Henry and Luke Burk, Olin and Thomas Sogge and Caden, Conner and Allie Burk; her sister Genevieve Colteaux of California, sisters-in-laws Lee Blake and Peg Blake, and many nieces and nephews.

JoAnn Oftedahl

JoAnn Oftedahl, 68, passed away Tuesday, July 2, 2024, surrounded by her family.

According to her wishes, there will be no services. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque, is entrusted with arrangements.

JoAnn was born July 30, 1955, in Slayton, MN, the daughter of Edward and Sarah Gieselman.  JoAnn met her soulmate and love of her life; Philip Oftedahl, in high school, and they married on October 20, 1973 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Minnesota.

JoAnn was a devoted wife, and her greatest dream in life was to be a mother. JoAnn and Philip welcomed their three children, and she made homemaking her passion, cooking, baking, and sewing her kids clothes and Halloween costumes. She was delighted when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren came along, and she loved helping to raise all of them. JoAnn was always up for an adventure, and she made many wonderful memories on family trips, especially Maui.

JoAnn is survived by her beloved husband, Philip Oftedahl; three children, Mark (Melissa) Oftedahl, Ryan (Abby) Oftedahl, and Mindy Wiley; her grandchildren, Alex, Cole, and Kayla Oftedahl, Colton Wiley, and Emma Oftedahl; two great-grandchildren, Jaasella and Aaveiya; her mother, Sarah Gieselman; two sisters, Lorie (Brian) Roux, and Janet Anderson; her sister in law, Rachel Mirghavamedin; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Gieselman, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Johnny and Donna Oftedahl; and an unborn grandchild.

JoAnn’s family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque; especially her nurse Casey, whose care and compassion helped us navigate this tremendous loss.

William R. Reynolds

William R. Reynolds, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 2:20 p.m. on July 1, 2024, at home surrounded by family.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 7th, 2024, and after 9:00 a.m. on Monday at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd.  A wake service will be held at 12:45p.m. on Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday July 8th, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West with Msgr Thomas Toale officiating.  The burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery with military honors accorded by American Legion Post #6.

William was born July 6, 1939, in Potosi, WI, the son of Lawrence and Lucille (Hauk) Reynolds.  He graduated from Cassville, WI High School.  He was united in marriage to Mary Virginia Donovan on May 14, 1960, at St. Joseph Church Key West.  He was employed at John Deere Dubuque Works; he retired in 1995 after 30 years.

He served in the Navy on the aircraft carrier USS Wasp from 1963 to 1965.  He was a member of UAW 94.  He enjoyed getting together with family, hunting, fishing and spending time at his property in Wisconsin.

He is survived by his wife; son David (Sue) Reynolds; daughters Jane (Scott) Schauer and Connie Reynolds; grandchildren Scott, Eric (Brecklyn) and Ali Reynolds, Jonathan Sutter, Britney Reynolds; step-grandchildren Justin (Katie) and Jason (Kelsie) Schauer and Jaimie (Daniel) Stark; grandson-in-law Tim Berning; great-granddaughter Harper Berning; brothers Jim (Sharon), Joe (Melanie), Jerry (Theresa), Ronnie (Patti) Reynolds; sister Helen (Ron) Udelhofen; sisters-in-law June (Don) Grass, Dorothy Mueller, Carol Reimer; brother-in-law Ron (Pat) Donovan.

William was preceded in death by his parents, mother and father-in-law Vincent and Mary (Schuster) Donovan, brothers Jack (Linda) and Bob Reynolds and granddaughter Rachel Berning.

A William R. Reynolds memorial fund has been established.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kim, Kevin and Peggy for their care and concern for Bill.

Marilyn C. Paulsen

Marilyn C. Paulsen, 91, of DeWitt, Iowa, and formerly of Delmar, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at Fieldstone of DeWitt.

Marilyn Carol Kinrade was born on June 28, 1933 in Clinton, Iowa, to Leonard Quinlan and Alice Theresa (Lane) Kinrade.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1951 graduate of Maquoketa High School.   She married Allen Lee Paulsen on November 16, 1952 at the United Methodist Church in Maquoketa, Iowa. Five children were born to this union, Joy, Steve, Jill, David, and Ron.

Marilyn was a mother and farmwife who farmed with her husband on the family farm east of Elwood until retirement.

Marilyn was a member of the Elwood United Methodist Church, the United Methodist Women, and the Polka Club of Iowa.  She was an accomplished area seamstress who enjoyed sewing, quilting, and dancing.

Those left to honor her memory include children, Joy Sheeley of Moscow, IA, Steve (Brenda) Paulsen of Delmar, IA, Jill (Matt) Goodman of Spragueville, IA, Dave (Tammi) Paulsen of Lisbon, IA, and Ron (Joyce) Paulsen of Elwood, IA; 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren brother, Bill Kinrade of Ames, IA; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Sandra Kinrade of Maquoketa, IA, Onalee Keeney of Maquoketa, IA, Carolyn Dennis of Lakeland, FL, and Gene Ulvestad of Ames, IA. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Allen Lee Paulsen on February 17, 2023, siblings James “Jim” Kinrade and Doris Ulvestad, daughter-in-law Jeanne Paulsen, son-in-law Kent Sheeley, and a great-granddaughter Katherine Frett.

A celebration of her life will be held at 1 P.M., Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life in Maquoketa, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 11 A.M. to 12:45 P.M at the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial will be at a later date at the Lost Nation, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marilyn C. Paulsen memorial fund has been established.

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

James L. Breeden

James L. “Jim” Breeden, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, July 1, 2024, at Clover Ridge Place in Maquoketa.

A celebration of his life will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the service from 9:00 A.M. until service time at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Sutton Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.

James Loras Breeden was born on April 16, 1936 in rural Maquoketa, Iowa to Jay and Ruth (Littlefield) Breeden.  He attended country school and then graduated from Maquoketa High School.  He married Sara Ann Clark on September 16, 1955 in Fulton, Iowa at the RLDS Church.

Jim worked as a farmhand for local farmers as well as owning his own farm later in life.  Throughout the years he had also worked as a carpenter, dairy deliveryman, and various factory jobs including at Alcoa and Clinton Engines.  Jim and Sara had also delivered the Sunday Quad City Times for over 15 years.

Jim enjoyed history, nature, gardening, planting trees, farming, and researching cemeteries involved with the Jackson County Pioneer Cemetery Association.   

Those left to honor his memory include children, Wayne Breeden of Clinton, IA, Sue Imming of Jefferson City, MO, Vickie (Bob) Anstey of Cumberland, IA, Diane (Jerry) Sneed of New Orleans, LA, and Shirley (Brad) Schmidt of Thornton, IA; a brother, Bob (Brenda) Breeden of Maquoketa, IA; 10 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sara on August 9, 2018, and a son John Loras Breeden on September 23, 1989.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed in his name to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Margaret C. Larson

Margaret C. Larson, 93, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at 12:02 p.m. on June 29th, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christin Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 12th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Tom McDermott officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Family Cemetery.

Margaret was born on April 13, 1931, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Michael and Julia (Donovan) McClain and graduated from St. Joseph Academy.  She married Earl Larson on August 26, 1953, and he preceded her in death on July 2, 2020.  She worked at Sears until 1998 and then worked for Carpet One Carpet Shack and officially retired in 2016. Margaret was a cancer survivor and a member of St. Columbkille Catholic Church and a DAR Member.

She enjoyed reading and listening to the sound of rain. Margaret was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was an incredibly strong woman; spending time with her family gave her much joy. She loved to cook for her family during all the holidays and she made sure that all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren each had a gift at Christmas.

She is survived by her children and their families:

Michele (Dan) Hoefer and their children, Sarah (Nick) Nelson with son Bohde, Michael (Liz) Hoefer with children Lauren, Makayla and Claire, Tony (Alina) Hoefer and their daughter Hazel, and Peter Hoefer and children Rayne, Zaiden and Silas.

Rebecca (Bruce) Cleland and their children, Kathryn (Nils Schongalla) Cleland, Emily Cleland and Ellen (Matthew Dragon) Cleland.

Christine (Mark) Asbury and their children Adam (Rachel) Asbury with children Aiden, James, William and Christopher, and Carla (Michael) Cloos with children Katherine, Alyssa and Nathan.

Nathan (fiancé Katherine Labarbera and her son Eugene) Larson and children Rachel Larson with children Ariavne and Ainsley, Hannah (Kyle) Harper with Charlie and Cameron, Joseph (Kelly) Larson and Madisyn, Julia (Scott Singer) Larson and Jacob (Morgan) Larson.

Jennifer Larson and son Levi French.

In-laws Jean McClain, Rosie McClain, and Bev Larson along with many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Mike and Julia McClain; father and mother-in-law Otto and Marguerite Larson; siblings: Earl (Phyllis) McClain, Delores (John) Pake, Grace McClain, Louis McClain, Ralph McClain, Marian (Bob) Dayton, Marie (Louis) Timp, Jean (Edward) Allen, Philip McClain

In lieu of flowers a Margaret Larson memorial fund will be established.

Mark J. McDonald

Mark J. McDonald, 54, of Dubuque, lost his battle with cancer on Monday, July 1, 2024, at the Harmony Care Facility Dubuque surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Monday, July 8, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mark will be at 12:30 pm on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery.

Mark was born January 15, 1970, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Jim and Gladys (Leibfried) McDonald. He attended Holy Trinity Grade School and graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1988.

Mark worked at FDL in security and later at the Mystic Casino, now known as the Q Casino, in maintenance. He also cleaned at Capri College for many years.

Mark had a kind soul, he would talk to everyone, and had a quirky sense of humor. Facebook will be a lot less busy due to his passing, some of you may even miss his weather reports. In his younger years, he spent countless hours at Uncle Tom’s farm where he became an avid KDTH-AM radio listener. Mark also enjoyed watching reruns of old TV shows and movies and was a die-hard Chicago Bears fan.

Survivors include his mother, Gladys McDonald of Dubuque; four siblings, Kelly Mussehl of Dubuque; Carey (Larry) Schilling of Epworth, IA; Jay (Jean) McDonald of Dubuque; and Todd (Tara) McDonald of Dubuque; nine nieces and nephews, Erin (Shaun) Cavanaugh, Dillon (Catie) Hefel, Amy (Dan) Schroeder, Tyler Mussehl, Mallory (Chris Clewell), Molly, Kaity (Brandon Lewis), Meghan McDonald; and Hailey Schilling; five very special great-nieces and great-nephews; and a long-time friend, Robin Wright and her son, Nolan.

Mark was preceded in death by his dad, Jim and brother-in-law, Ron Mussehl.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to the staff at Harmony Care Facility and Hospice of Dubuque for their great care given to Mark.

In lieu of plants and flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Holy Family Schools.

Michael J. Van Deusen

Michael J. Van Deusen of Bellevue, passed away on July 1, 2024, at Iowa City Hospitals and Clinics after an 18- year inspiring journey with Cancer.   Michael stubbornly fought all the challenges Cancer brought to him.

Graveside Services with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post # 273 will be 3:00 pm, Monday, July 8, 2024, in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue, with a Celebration of Life following Graveside Services from 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm at Second Street Station in Bellevue.

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

Michael was born to CMSGT (ret) Clarence and Jean Ann “Gert” Van Deusen on October 9, 1958, in Liberty, New York.

The family relocated to Bellevue in 1969, and Michael graduated from Marquette Catholic High School with the Class of ’76.  After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force serving for eight years.  He worked with the Department of Defense Dependent School Systems as Director of Communications for the Far East extensively travelling the globe for his job.  After living on Okinawa for 17 years, he took a position with the government in Washington, D.C.  He retired returning to Bellevue in 2003.

Michael was an avid sports fan, as anyone who knew Michael could tell you, he could quote sports stats with the best of them. He enjoyed watching the Iowa Hawkeyes, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago Bears.  He even made special trips from Okinawa back to Bellevue in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, to watch the Marquette Mohawks at the state basketball tournaments.

Michael is survived by his mother, his sister Susan (Mike) Davids, his brother Richard Van Deusen, his nephew Justin Davids, his niece Kitty (Devin) McSparin, his great- nieces Gabriella Serrano and Lena McSparin, along with numerous cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, his siblings Thomas Van Deusen and Shari Knotts, his paternal grandparents Corliss and Kathryn Van Deusen, and his maternal grandparents Fred and Marie Maiers along with many aunts and uncles.

The family would like to thank Dr. Tim King, Sandy and Michelle, Dr. Christine Holms, Dr. Jared Freiburger, Dr.  Eric Engleman, Dr. Bruce Obbink, Dr. Honorio Caceres, Dr. Mark Niemer and all the fantastic staff of Medical Associates, Mercy One, and Mercy One Cancer Center, as well as the staff of the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for all their support of Michael during his journey.

There aren’t enough words of appreciation to say a very special thanks to Shannon and Matt Wedeking and family, and Rick (Hoot) and Beth Michels for all their support and assistance throughout the years. The family is very grateful!

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

Judith A. Simon

Judith Ann Simon, 80, of Peosta, formerly of Dubuque and Cascade, died Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Sunset Park Place Senior Living in Dubuque.

A prayer service will be held at 2:00 pm Sunday, July 7, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service followed by visitation until 6:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Judy will be 10:30 am Monday, July 8, 2024, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Peosta with Father Michael Schueller as the Celebrant. The family will receive friends from 9:00 am until 10:15 am before the Mass. Burial will be in St. Martin Cemetery in Cascade.

Judith was born December 18, 1943, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Oscar F. and Frances E. Lannon Burgmeyer. On May 21, 1966, she married Merlin E. Simon in Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque. He died April 18, 1998.

She was a 1962 graduate of Wahlert High School.

In 1988, she and her husband co-founded American-Iowa Manufacturing, a venture they managed together until his passing.

Judy was deeply involved in her community, serving as an active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, where she dedicated herself to decorating the church’s gathering room. Her commitment extended to various organizations including Rotary, Optimist Club, TTT Chapter GX, and the Thunder Hills Golf Course, where she served on the board. She also contributed her time and passion to initiatives such as the Power of Prayer, Dubuque Arts Council’s Music in the Park, and the Dubuque Chorale. Additionally, she volunteered her compassionate support to Hospice of Dubuque, embodying a spirit of service that touched many lives. She was a gifted artist and enjoyed gardening. She loved animals, especially her cavapoo, Bentley, her favorite companion. She was also a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother.

Survivors include three sons, Mark (Tina) Simon, David (Dana) Simon, and Shane (Patti) Simon, all of Cascade;  one granddaughter, Jordan; nine grandsons, Bryce (Regann Pfeiler), Brock, Dilan, Carter, Tanner, Travis, Chase, Evan (Karina), and Blake; in-laws, Jeanette (Paul) Kremer, Loras (Mary Ann) Simon, Marian (Dave) Armstrong, Lucy Sutherland, Matt (Jean) Simon, Lee (Connie) Simon, Tom (Sherry)Simon, Bob (Linda) Budden, Steve McElmeel, Luann Simon, and Sue Burgmeyer; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law, Emmet and Kathleen, one daughter-in-law, Tina Simon, two sisters, Lynn Burgmeyer and Joy Burgmeyer, one brother, Michael Burgmeyer, and in-laws, Marie, Doris, and Irwin.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Hospice of Dubuque and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Judy’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their exceptional care

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

Janice Kutsch

Janice Kutsch, 83, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 14, 2024, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque, IA. The Furlong Funeral Chapel is assisting the family with services, which will be held later. 

She was born to Ernest and Dorothy Schumacher on September 11, 1940, in Galena. Janice was a 1958 graduate of Galena High School and received her Nursing license after attending Highland Community College. For many years, she worked as a lab technician and then as a nurse at the Galena-Stauss Nursing Home, where she retired.  She had a love for antique dolls. Throughout her life, she collected and sold dolls and enjoyed shopping for them on eBay and taking trips to flea markets.  Jan loved animals, especially her dog and faithful companion, Albie.

She is survived by her brother, James Schumacher; brother-in-law, Jerry Kieffer; nephews Matt Schumacher and Paul (Heather) Kieffer; nieces Megan (Casey) Kaiser and Amy (Tim) Hiller and many great-nieces and great-nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest and Dorothy; her stepfather, Bernard Peschang; her sister, Mary Ann Kieffer; and her sister-in-law, Pam Schumacher.

Her family would like to extend a special thank you to friend Ramona and her friends at the Coatsworth Center for their care and compassion over the last several years.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Deborah J. Deppe

Deborah J. Deppe, 56 of Dyersville, Iowa passed away on Saturday June 29, 2024, at home surrounded by her family.

Public visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Wednesday July 3, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  A private funeral service will take place after the public visitation for immediate family and close friends.

Deborah was born on August 26, 1967, in Guttenberg, Iowa, the daughter of Howard “LeRoy” Hansel and Linda (Froelich) Hansel.  She married Carl Deppe on November 14th, 1986, and lived on a farm outside Petersburg, Iowa where they raised their three children. Deb taught preschool for many years before going on to graduate from NICC with a Certified Medical Assistant degree. Deb enjoyed playing softball, being with her grandkids, Sunday afternoon drives and was always up for an adventure. Her children and grandchildren were her greatest joy.

Survivors include her loving husband, Carl Deppe; children: Jeffrey (Lainey Kress) Deppe, Christina (Jordan) Soppe, Thomas Deppe; grandchildren: Rhett, Ember, & Briar Soppe; siblings: Kim Froehle, Julie Steger, Michelle Ingles; in-laws: Doris Soppe, Phyllis (Jim) Bries, Dan Deppe, Jim Deppe, Patricia (Joe) McDermott, Mary Kaye (Dick) Tucker, Laurie (Dan) Scherbring, Elaine (Dan) Klostermann, Diane (Randy) Reth, Lisa Deppe.

She was preceded in death by her father, father & mother-in-law Bill & Rosie Deppe; in-laws: Andy Soppe.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040.

Clinton O. White

Clinton O. White, 87, of Galena, IL, passed away Friday, June 28, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A funeral mass will be held at Noon on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of mass. The burial will be at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on January 28, 1937, in Apple River, IL, to Russel and Mildred (Wickler) White. Upon completing the 8th grade, Clinton started his farming and trucking career. On August 24, 1957, he was united in marriage to his wife, Elaine, at Nativity BVM Church, Menominee, IL. Clinton and Elaine raised their four children: Darrel, Karen, Joyce, and Mary Beth on a small farm in Galena, IL.

After retiring in 1999, Clinton spent most of his retired days attending events for his grandkids, “tinkering” in his shop and watching his beloved horses graze in the pastures. He had a passion for antique farming and was a proud supporter of “Echos of the Past” in Apple River for many years.

Clinton treasured his four grandkids: Nick, Alex, Megan, and Stephanie. He enjoyed steadfastly supporting their concerts, tournaments, 4-H fairs, and more in retirement with his wife.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine; son, Darrel White; daughters, Karen White, Joyce (John) Wills, and Mary Beth Hyde, grandsons Nick (Kelsey) Hyde and Alex Hyde; granddaughters, Megan (Cody Heuer) Wills and Stephanie (Trevor) Mullin, his first great-granddaughter due in September, sister, Linda Van Gordon, and sister-in-law, Dawn White.

In addition to his parents, Clinton was preceded in death by his father and mother-in-law, Albert and Theresa Erner; brothers, Tom, Jerry, and Terry White; sister, Kathy White; brothers-in-law, LeRoy Fields and RJ Spillane; sisters-in-law, Sandy White, Grace Fields, Judy White, and LaVonne Spillane, son-in-law, Patrick Hyde, nephews, Brian and Rusty White, and great nephew, Tylor White-Richardson.

Clinton had an innate ability to light up every room with his goofy humor. He welcomed everyone into his life with open arms and treated everyone as family. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten by those who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Hospice of Dubuque or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank Deacon Jay for his many visits, and Hospice of Dubuque team, Jessica, Haley, Stephanie, and Melody, for the excellent care they have given him over the last eighteen months.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com