Obituaries Archive

Melvin N. Brecht

Melvin N. Brecht, 95, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away Friday, March 14, 2025, at MercyOne Senior Care in Dyersville, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 8: 30 – 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa. Funeral services will commence at 11 a.m. with burial following in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Melvin was born on May 6, 1929, in Holy Cross, IA, son of Aloysius and Lorraine (Jaeger) Brecht. He married Dorothy Hannan on October 3, 1953, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rickardsville, Iowa.

Survivors include his wife of 71 years, Dorothy; children: Daniel (Brenda) Brecht of Monterey, TN, Karen Brecht of Edgewood, MD, Ann (Kevin) Jasper of Holy Cross, Peggy (Brian) Plunkett of Dubuque; 12 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren; brother, Kenneth Brecht of Dubuque; in-laws: Dianne Brecht of Dubuque, Carol Hannan of Dubuque, and Norma Perry of Dubuque.

Melvin was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He was a Korean War veteran and dedicated volunteer fireman for 45 years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law, Harold and Grace Hannan; siblings: Delbert (Nancy) Brecht, Walter Brecht; in-laws: Evelyn Brecht, Delmar Hannan, John (Delores) Hannan, Kay (Leon) Link, Richard Hannan, Bill Hannan, Alice (Delbert) Manders, and Gene Hannan.

The family would like to thank the staff at MercyOne Senior Care, especially Rosalie and June, and Hospice of Dubuque for their compassionate care.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Sandra Ernst

Sandra “Sandi” Ernst, 78, of Asbury died Thursday, March 13, 2025, at her home surrounded by family.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 pm Monday, March 17 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road followed by a memorial service at 7 pm.

Sandi was born September 7, 1946 in Dubuque, daughter of Jim and Margaret (O’Regan) Cota. She graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1964.

On August 5, 1967 she married Frank A. Ernst. He preceded her in death on October 16, 2012.

Sandi retired from US Bank after working many years as a bank teller where she built meaningful relationships with her customers. She was a life-long member of Holy Spirit Parish. Sandi enjoyed playing cards and being part of her card club, and she cherished visiting new places around the country with her siblings and her own family.

Sandi’s greatest joy was being a mother and raising her three sons. She later treasured spending time with her grandchildren.  Sandi also loved hosting family gatherings where she would prepare many favorite dishes and treats.

Sandi is survived by three sons, Greg Ernst of Dubuque, Brian (Sarah) Ernst of Cedar Rapids, and Brett (Samantha) Ernst of Decatur, Georgia; three grandchildren, Braden, Regan and Theia Ernst; three sisters, Cindy (Pat) Grace, Mary Cota, and Jane (Tom) McLaughlin; a brother, Mike (LeAnne) Cota; sister in law, Karen Kieffer; and many nieces and nephews.

She was also preceded in death by her parents.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of Sandi’s friends and siblings for their unwavering support during her health battles over the past four years. Their love and encouragement have been invaluable during this challenging time. They would also like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Andrea Ries, Dr. Eric Engelman and the MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center team for their care over the years.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Hospice of Dubuque would be appreciated.

Samuel Sandberg

Samuel Sandberg, husband, father, and respected physician, passed away on March 13, 2025, in DeWitt, Iowa, at the age of 72. Born in Pusan, South Korea, on May 11, 1952, Sam’s journey brought him to the United States at the tender age of two. He spent his formative years in Pennsylvania before moving to Davenport, Iowa, during his junior high school years.

Sam’s academic pursuits were marked by a dedication to excellence. After graduating from Davenport West High School in 1970, he continued his education at St. Ambrose University, earning his degree in 1974. His passion for medicine led him to the University of Iowa College of Medicine, where he graduated in 1978. Sam completed his residency at Davenport Family Practice in 1981, setting the stage for a career in medicine.

Sam’s professional life was as rich and varied as his personal interests. From 1981 to 1990, he practiced family medicine in Lowden and Lost Nation, delivering babies and providing compassionate care to his patients. His career took him to Maquoketa Medical Center, Dyersville Mercy Health Center, Commodore Cruise Lines, and Work Fitness Center. Sam also served at the Acute Care Center at Dubuque Medical Associates from 1990 to 1998. He concluded his medical practice at Genesis Convenient Care in Davenport and Bettendorf, retiring in 2015 after a fulfilling career.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sam was a man of many passions. He was a generous individual, always ready to share his time, talent, and resources. An active member of the United Church of Christ Maquoketa, he served on various committees, contributing to the life of the church. Sam’s love of tennis led him to create the Maquoketa Community High School Tennis program, where he was the head coach for three years.

Sam’s zest for life was evident in his legendary St. Patrick’s Day parties, which he hosted for nearly two decades. A passionate Beatles fan, he attended The Fest for Beatles Fans in Chicago annually for nearly 30 years and was an avid collector of Hard Rock Café pins. His musical talent shone through as a guitarist in local bands, and he was a fervent supporter of the Iowa Hawkeyes and all Chicago professional sports teams. Travel was another of Sam’s joys, and he explored the United States, Europe, Central America, and the Galápagos Islands.

On June 29, 1974, Sam married the love of his life, Susan “Sue” Tulk, in Long Grove, Iowa. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Sarah and Sheri, who brought immense joy to his life. Sam’s family grew to include his cherished granddaughter, Alice Siegel, who held a special place in his heart. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Sandberg of Maquoketa, IA; his daughters, Sarah Sandberg of Maquoketa, IA, and Sheri (Antoine) Siegel of Luxembourg, EU; his granddaughter, Alice Siegel; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Donna and Joseph Shaffer of Taylor Ridge, IL; and two nephews. Sam was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Ann Sandberg.

A celebration of his life will be held on St. Patrick’s Day at 11 AM, Monday, March 17, 2025, at United Church of Christ in Maquoketa. A gathering of family and friends will begin at 10 AM at the church. Cremation rites have been accorded. A private family burial will be held at a later date at the Davenport, Iowa Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Sam Sandberg memorial fund has been established.

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

Gary L. Jahnke

Gary L. Jahnke, 73, of Dubuque, died peacefully on Friday, March 14, 2025, at his home surrounded by family, after a courageous 22 month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, with a Celebration of Life time of sharing at 7:00 pm at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Gary will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. A private family burial will be at the Asbury Cemetery where full military honors will be rendered by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Gary was born October 16, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Walter and Virginia (Merritt) Jahnke. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in Dubuque, IA in 1970. In 1971, he was drafted and served two years in the Army while stationed in Germany. Gary was married to Katy O’Meara for 27 years, they then went their separate ways but stayed friends.

Gary attended Area I Vocational-Technical School and was the top of his class, earning his Welding diploma in 1975, Auto Mechanics diploma in 1976, and Tractor/Trailer Truck Driving diploma, with full endorsements, in 1999 from Northeast Iowa Community College.

Gary enjoyed a career of utilizing his technical repairs & maintenance and intra personal skills. He worked  for John Deere Dubuque Works from 1977-1982, managed several residential complexes, and then drove a tanker truck for Fassport/Molo Oil Company for the last 21 years.

Gary was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church. He enjoyed volunteering and served on the Church Council, Building and Grounds Committee and Garden Club at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church. He was on the Board of Directors for the Rescue Mission in Dubuque serving community members in need.

Gary enjoyed bicycling and helping his community by donating over 13 gallons of blood through the Dubuque Red Cross. Most of all, he enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s activities and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his son, Jason (Jane) Jahnke, and their son, Josh, of Crystal Lake, IL; his daughter, Jill (Lance Smothers) Jahnke and her children, Gio and Jace Martinez and Madison Smothers all of Dubuque, IA; his mother, Virginia Jahnke of Dubuque; four siblings, Allan (Kathy) Jahnke of Littleton, CO and their son, Jordan; Kevin (Linda) Jahnke of Ramona, CA and their children, Adam (Kai), Andrew (Hannah), and Aaron, and Grace; Steve Jahnke of Dubuque and his children, Eric (Kalli) and Sarah; and Lavonne (Aaron) Cohen of Chicago, IL; and Gary’s former wife, Katy O’Meara.

Gary is preceded in death by his father, Walter Jahnke.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque, Mercy Cancer Center, and all of Gary’s caregivers, especially, Kirsten and Renee.

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

Donna Kutsch

Donna (Dolphin) McCarthy Kutsch, 92, of Dubuque, passed on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Assisi Village in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Donna will be at 11:00 am on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Holy Family Cemetery in rural Peosta.

Donna was born December 21, 1932, in Cascade, IA, the daughter of Louis and Mary (MacArthur) Dolphin. On May 21, 1955, she married James McCarthy at St. Martin Catholic Church in Cascade and to this union they were blessed with five children. James preceded her in death on February 15, 1970. Donna then found love again and married Kenneth Kutsch on August 16, 1973, at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Dubuque and she was blessed with four bonus children.

Donna graduated from St. Martin High School, Cascade, in 1951. She then graduated from Mt. Mercy, Cedar Rapids, in 1954.

After her first husband, James, passed, Donna began working as the school nurse at Wahlert Catholic High School for several years, then other schools within the Dubuque Community School District.

While working and raising nine children didn’t leave much time for other hobbies, Donna loved to go dancing with both husbands, she also loved hosting holidays and family gatherings. Family was of utmost importance to her. Later on when the children were grown, she and Ken enjoyed traveling to Canada, Ireland, and throughout the US. They were also very active in and gained many lifelong friends through the Tri-State Antique Car Club.

Survivors include her nine children, Kevin (Dana) McCarthy of Hiawatha, Mike (Carla) McCarthy of Westchester, IL, M. Beth (Mike) Remakel of Dubuque, Mac McCarthy of Schaumburg, IL, Michelle McCarthy of Phoenix, AZ, Kevin (Jane) Kutsch of Maquoketa, IA, Sheri Kutsch of Des Moines, IA, Greg (Jan) Kutsch of Appleton, WI, and Jon (fiancé, Kristine Burgwald) Kutsch of Cologne, MN; daughter-in-law, GlenNiece Kutsch of Chaska, MN; 10 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and one brother, Ken (Bernadette Martin) Dolphin of Dubuque.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents; both husbands; and one sister, Elaine (Bill) Rogers.

In lieu of plants and flowers, the family requests memorials be given to Hospice of Dubuque.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt Thank You to Eagle Pointe Place, Assisi Memory Unit, Mercy 2nd Floor, and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their loving and compassionate care.

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

Robert Redington

Robert (Bob) Redington, 88, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Thursday, March 13, 2025 at Midwest Senior Care Community, Galena, IL. We are certain he was joyfully met by his wife Ferna.

Family and friends may call from 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 23, 2025 at the Miller-Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound, IL, where the parish rosary will be recited at 12:45 p.m. There will be an additional visitation from 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. on Monday at Holy Trinity Church in Scales Mound, where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Howard C. Barch, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow in Grant Hills Cemetery, rural Council Hill.

Robert was born in Dubuque, Iowa on February 8, 1937.  He was the first born of nine children, to Clarence & Leola (Skaggs) Redington. Robert was baptized at St Michael’s, attended Millbrig one-room school, and graduated from the old Galena HS in 1955.

Robert married Ferna Stevermer at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Easton, MN on 5-7-57.

Robert stayed busy with Ferna, raising 7 children and farming.  Robert, also retired from John Deere Dubuque Works with 30+ years as a machinist.

Ferna, his wife, and partner passed away in January 2005.

Robert met his second farm girl, Shirley Curoe and they married at Sacred Heart, Fillmore, IA on December 27, 2011.  They both enjoyed dancing while living in Dubuque.   Age and health concerns forced them to each move nearer their respective families.

Through the years, Robert was a member of the National Guards, 4-H, Farm Bureau, UAW Local #94 and Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Robert was proud to join the Knights of Columbus in 1997, a 4th Degree Knight in 2004 and then a lifetime member.

Robert is survived by his wife Shirley Curoe, children Mary (Stuart) Ohms, Theresa Redington, Tony (Linda) Redington, Margaret (aka Meg) Tibodeau, Tim (Vickie) Redington, Tina (Mike Clark) Redington, Bridget (Jerry) Overbeck, 16 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. Surviving siblings include Ann (Bob) Blewett, Paul (Denyse) Redington, Roger (Nancy) Redington, Lloyd (Lucia) Redington, Kathy (Randall) Price, Dennis (Gayle) Redington, LaVonne (Ron) Deininger, and sister-in-law, Kathy Redington.  His extended family includes Shirley’s family, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Ferna, parents, daughter-in-law Jackie, brother Daniel, and sister-in-law, Cherie Redington.

In lieu of flowers and plants, memorials can be made to Holy Trinity Church (Alter and Rosary), local food pantries or a charity of donor’s choice

A special thanks to the wonderful staff at Hospice of Dubuque, Midwest Senior Care Assisted Living and Community Nursing Home for the thoughtful, gentle, patience and understanding given towards Robert and his family.  Thank you for your kindness.

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

Lynn Ware

Lynn Ware, 76, of Dubuque, died on Monday, March 10, 2025, at the MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.

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

Lynn was born on July 10, 1948, in Wauzeka, WI, the son of Bill and Maddie (Wooley) Ware. He was united in marriage to Theresa Maas on November 4, 1987 in Dubuque, IA.

Lynn worked for Arby’s in Dubuque for 26 years. He loved doing small craft projects, such as painting, diamond dots, and latch hooks. Although, his favorite thing to do was to spend time with his family and his cats.

Survivors include his wife, Theresa of Dubuque; his four sons, Bill, Ryun, Jayme, and Jordon Ware; sister-in-law, Gidget Maas; brother-in-law, Chris (Tammy) Maas; and one niece, Ashley Maas.

Lynn was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

Brian J. Hosie

Brian J. Hosie, 61, of Rockford and Galena, IL, passed away on Monday, March 10, 2025. A private family burial will take place later. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

He was born on January 24, 1964, in Chicago, IL, the son of John and Phyllis (Crall) Hosie. Brian attended elementary school in Chicago and completed his education at Galena High School. Throughout his life, he was actively involved in the Special Olympics, particularly enjoying the winter sporting events at Chestnut Mountain Resort, where he even had the honor of lighting the torch one year. Brian loved bowling and frequently went with his friends and family. He worked at the Galena Workshop and later at Milestone Industries in Rockford, IL, where he made many friends.

Brian is survived by his sister, Kim (Michael) Kresol; his nieces, Rachel Kobischka and Rebecca (Adam) Vaiden; his nephew, Evan (Rachael) Reifsteck; seven great-nieces and nephews; and his housemates, Alan, Tom, Zack, and David.

He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials may be made to Milestone Industries or the Galena Workshop.

The family extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone at Milestone Industries for their love and support for Brian and their family.

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

Janice Richmann

Janice Richmann, 101, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday morning, March 12, 2025, at Fieldstone in DeWitt, Iowa.

Janice Ruggeberg was born on February 4, 1924 in Rural Lost Nation, Iowa, to Harry and Dorothy (Schunter) Ruggeberg.  She attended German Valley Country School, a one-room schoolhouse, and graduated from Lost Nation High School in 1941.  On November 28, 1946, she married Raymond Richmann in Lowden, Iowa. Together, they welcomed three children into the world: Kay, Allen, and Karen.

Janice and Raymond worked side by side on their farm, cultivating not only the land but also a family. After Raymond’s passing March 28, 1974, Janice continued the spirit of hard work and transitioned to a role as a bookkeeper for Gilroy Brother’s in Lost Nation.

Beyond her professional life, Janice was involved in her community. She was a member of the Union Presbyterian Church in Lost Nation, serving as both a trustee and financial secretary for many years, as well as a 50-year member of the Order of the Eastern Star.

Janice’s creative talents shone brightly through her passion for sewing and quilting. She was a prolific creator, making hundreds of items for family and friends. Each stitch was a symbol of her love and care, and her handmade treasures will continue to provide warmth and comfort for generations to come.

Those left to honor Janice’s memory include her children, Kay Myatt of Lost Nation, IA, Allen (Pam) Richmann of Lost Nation, IA, and Karen Phillips of Zwingle, IA. Her legacy also lives on through her six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the memories and lessons she imparted. Janice was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Raymond, her brothers Donald, Paul, and Ivan, and sons-in-law Frank Myatt and David Phillips.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Lost Nation, IA Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made in her honor to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Loretta Fahrion

Loretta Fahrion, 81, of Asbury, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at  8:30 pm, surrounded by family telling her how much we loved her.

Loretta was born on June 18, 1943, in Rockford, Illinois, to Floyd and Dorothy (Jordan) Clendenin. She grew up in Rockford and graduated from Rockford Memorial Hospital  School of Nursing in 1964.

Loretta was a registered nurse for 44 years and said it was a calling rather than a job.

Loretta was united in marriage to James Fahrion on December 27, 1964 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Derinda, Illinois, by Jim’s brother, Cletus.

She was so blessed and grateful for family, and so proud of her children. She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church since 1970.

Loretta enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, walks, and reading. Earlier she enjoyed camping, canoeing, skiing, and traveling.

She is survived by her husband, Jim, three children, Michael (Lisa) Fahrion, Daniel (Tracy) Fahrion, Stacy (Christopher Long) Fahrion, four grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, mother and father-in-law, Charles and Rosena Fahrion, brother, Wade Fox (Mary), sister, Jean Neff (Bernard), brother-in-law, Clyde (Peggy) Fahrion, sister-in-law, Virginia (Everett) Clark, and brother-in-law, Harvey Fahrion.

Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque.

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 Loretta’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Jack E. Wirtz

Jack Elwyn Wirtz, 91, passed away on February 19, 2025, with his family by his side.

A former resident of Old Mill Creek, Illinois, Jack resided in Elizabeth Township since 2000.  Jack graduated from Wauconda High School in 1951, and began grain and dairy farming with his father in Volo, Illinois. In 1956, Jack was drafted into the U.S. Army and trained at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He completed his active-duty service in Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and was honorably discharged in 1958. Jack met his wife, Lillian, of 65 years, on a blind date in 1956 and married her on January 24, 1959. They settled in Volo, Illinois to continue their married life farming and raising a family. Jack joined the Temple Farms Group in 1968, in Wadsworth, Illinois.  After 20 years, he retired from farming and worked with Petersen Masonry and Boller Construction, until his final retirement and move to Hanover, Illinois.

Jack led his life by example. His virtue of honesty, respect, kindness, humor and perseverance were evident in everything he did. Always the first to extend a helping hand to everyone without any hesitation. Jack’s love and care for his family was unyielding and never ending.

Jack was born on November 26, 1933, to William and Alice (Rita) Wirtz. He was a member of the Millburn Congregational United Church of Christ.

Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian (Neubert) Wirtz, his parents, his siblings and in-laws: Marvin and Audrey Wirtz, Marion and Philip Brown, and Arnold and Sharon Wirtz.

Surviving are his three children: Frederick Wm. (Cathy) Wirtz, Island Park, New York; Linnea Marie Wirtz, Elizabeth, Illinois; Margaret Ann (Robert) Wirtz-Schuster, Antioch, Illinois. Also surviving are 5 grandchildren: William (Brittany) Wirtz, Timothy Wirtz, Emily Wirtz, Jacquelyn (Scott) Grimon, Anna (Matthew Roche) Rindahl, and 5 great-grandchildren: Oliver Grimon, Lydia Grimon, Maisie Grimon, Jackson Rindahl, and Audrey Roche, and sister-in-law Ruth Wirtz.

To honor Jack’s life, a private family service is being held at a later date.

Online condolences for Jack’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com.

Lee J. Wiest

Lee J. Wiest, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center surrounded by his family and friends after complications from a stroke.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Deacon David Roth officiating.

Lee was born on June 21, 1959 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Elgie J. and Barbara J. (Udelhofen) Wiest. He played football for the Hempstead Mustangs and the Iowa State Cyclones. Lee worked at The Adams Company, and later in life he went to NICC to earn his RN. He was then employed at Finley Hospital and Dr. David Field’s office. He won awards for the compassionate care he had for his patients.

He had an adventurous spirit and he left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. Lee’s two greatest loves were fishing and hunting; he was a true outdoorsman. He was a member of the Bass Club.

I am sure Elgie had a bass boat ready to pick Lee up when he left this world. Lee had many friends; some would stop by daily for coffee and to lend a helping hand after his cancer diagnosis.

Lee is survived by his mother Barbara Wiest-Schnee, sister Kris (Dave) Ahmann, step-sisters Jackie (Steve) Whitehead, Sherry (Bob) Wittman, and Chris (Joe) Hinderman, and step-brothers Mike (Roxy) Schnee and Mark (Crystal) Schnee.

He was preceded in death by his father Elgie J. Wiest, and step-father Jack Schnee.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in Lee’s name.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Care Center, Finley Hospital, and the University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics. And a special thank you to his friends that were like his family: Benny, Cair, Carol, Dan, Lee, Megan, Mike, Pollock, Scott, Thad, and Tony.

Ralph “Hank” Linden

Ralph “Hank” Linden, 70, of Dubuque, left this world for his heavenly home on Saturday, March 8, 2025.

Visitation will be from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 15, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, where there will be a funeral service held at 4 p.m. on Saturday. Pastor Dennis Schmitt will officiate.

Hank was born on September 3, 1954 in Dubuque, the son of Ralph and Rita (Loes) Linden. He graduated from Wahlert High School, and went on to attend Mount Senario College in Ladysmith, WI, where he studied music on a full scholarship.

Hank was a longtime salesman, which he excelled at due to his compassion and outgoing personality. Education was very important to him, and he served on the Dubuque Community School Board for three years.

Hank was a devoted father and grandfather, and loved spending time with his family. He enjoyed golfing, shooting hoops, watching movies, and in his younger years, boating on the river. He was a talented musician, and played the saxophone in several bands, including “Roller” and “Bad Axe”.  He loved Christian music and classic rock. Hank had a soft spot for animals, and will be sadly missed by his dog, Nic.

Hank is survived by his daughter, Heather Linden, of Dubuque; his son, Adam Linden, of Dubuque; his granddaughter, Addison Linden, of Dubuque; his former wife, Debbie Schmitt Linden (David Dolan), of Dubuque; three sisters, Ruthie (Paul) Franzen, of Peosta, Nancy Dorr, of Bettendorf, and Peggy (Greg) Lippe, of Hillsboro, WI; and 18 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Bill Linden; two sisters, Joan and Mary Lou Linden; his brother in law, Dick Dorr; and his longtime special friend, Kathy Menadue.

Memorials may be made to the family for future installation of a memorial bench.

The family would like to thank the staff at University of Iowa Hospital and Unity Point Finley Hospital for their care of Hank.

“To be away from the body, is to be at home with the Lord” 2 Corinthians 5:8.

Jerald A. Watters

Jerald A. “Jerry” Watters, 88, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully early Tuesday morning, March 11, 2025, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Jerald Alvie Watters was born on May 19, 1936 in Iowa City, Iowa, to Alvie and Velma (Meyer) Watters.  He went to school in Clinton and graduated from Clinton High School.  He then entered the military and served his country in the U.S. Air Force earning an honorable discharge.  He married Barbara Ann McCrady on November 23, 1959, at Barb’s parents’ home in Maquoketa.

Upon returning home from serving his country, Jerry worked for ARA Vending Machine Company, and then Stickley Electric in Maquoketa.  He then worked for a combined 30 plus years, first with the Chicago Northwestern Railroad, and later Union Pacific Railroad in DeSoto, Missouri, until retirement.

They had lived in Maquoketa prior to the closing of the Chicago Northwestern Railroad.  They then moved to DeSoto, Missouri for 24 years, moving back to Maquoketa in 2018.

Jerry was a member of First United Methodist Church in Maquoketa and Mt. Olive Methodist Church in DeSoto, Missouri.  He enjoyed wood carving, and loved planes, trains and old cars.  He had a passion for vegetable gardening and loved to sing.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and reading the funny pages to the grandchildren.

Those left to honor his memory include children Kim (Sonny) Goble of Wyoming, IA, Cindy (Les) Monson of Maquoketa, IA, James (Stacey) Watters of Hobart, IN, Mike (Shelley) Watters of Michigan City, IN, and Jennifer (Eric) Waltert of DeSoto, MO; 10 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren; special cousin, Gary (Mary) Watters of Clinton, IA; sister-in-law Elaine Watters of New Orleans, LA; brother-in-law, Robert (Bonnie) McCrady of LeClaire, IA; and nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, wife Barbara on May 10, 2024, brothers Junior Watters and Harold “Louie” Watters, brother-in-law Steve McCrady, and sister-in-law Lorraine McCrady.

A graveside service celebrating Jerald’s life will be held at 11 A.M., Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa. There is no visitation. 

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Jerald A. “Jerry” Watters Memorial Fund has been established.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

David A. Hankemeier

David A. Hankemeier, 64, of Maquoketa, Iowa, went home to be with Jesus His Lord and Savior on Sunday, March 9, 2025.

David Ardo Hankemeier was born on October 3, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Ardo and Doris (Thillmony) Hankemeier.  He was a 1979 graduate of Andrew High School, where he was a member of the basketball team. On March 23, 1979, he married Pamela Todhunter in Andrew, Iowa, and together they welcomed their son, Adam. Although David and Pam later divorced, they continued to share a bond of friendship and co-parenting that lasted throughout the years.

David’s work ethic was evident from a young age as he farmed alongside his father and worked for the Andrew COOP. His life took an unexpected turn in August of 1983 when a swimming accident resulted in paralysis. Despite this challenge, David’s determination and positive outlook on life never wavered. He adapted to his new circumstances with grace and continued to contribute to his community in meaningful ways.

For many years, David served as the secretary/treasurer for the Andrew Cemetery (Perry Township Cemetery Association), a role that allowed him to connect with his community and honor its history. His commitment to his faith was evident through his membership at Salem Lutheran Church in Andrew and his attendance at several area churches. David’s social nature shone through in his enjoyment of visiting with others and sharing his faith, which remained a cornerstone of his life.

David’s interests extended beyond his community work. He relished in taking country rides, visiting with friends along the way, and recounting the residents of nearly every home he passed—a testament to his deep roots and connection to the area. In his younger years, he found joy in snowmobiling, embracing Iowa’s winters.

Those left to honor David’s memory include his son, Adam (Melissa) Hankemeier of Clarksville, TN, and his five grandchildren, Caleb, Landon, Ellie, Seth, and Evan. He is also survived by his sister, Linda (Randy) Duhme of Maquoketa, IA, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and three aunts. David was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Ronald, and a nephew, Jeff.

A celebration of his life will be held at 12:30 P.M., Friday, March 14, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 5 to 8 P.M., Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the David A. Hankemeier memorial fund c/o Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060.

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