Obituaries Archive

Megan E. Pinkham

Megan Emley Pinkham, 45, of Dubuque, Iowa, entered glory on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, after a wonder-woman battle with breast cancer.

Visitation will be from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Celebration of Life service for Megan will be at 10:00 am on Monday, July 7, 2025, at Hope Church with Pastor Travis Roehm and Mr. Jim Gephart officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery, followed by a picnic lunch at Eagle Point Park Riverfront Pavilion. Megan requested that those attending wear one or more of the following of her favorite things: something blue, cute red shoes, a fancy hat (aka a fascinator).

Megan was born April 26, 1980, in Dallas, TX, the daughter of Gary W. and Jane E. (Whitver) Weston. Megan graduated from Brookfield East High School, Brookfield, WI, in 1998. She then furthered her education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where she obtained both her Bachelor of Science in Engineering (2002) as well as her Executive MBA (2013). She was united in marriage to the love of her life Joel T. Pinkham on August 18, 2018, in Dubuque.

That’s the 411 as we used to say in the ‘90s, but the full details of Megan’s life reveal a woman as tough as she was tender, as intelligent as she was nurturing, as fearless as she was curious. A true “obstinate headstrong girl” (see A&E’s Pride and Prejudice), Megan genuinely loved others well with her time, interest, and affection. She traveled the world for different reasons, with missions, with work, and for pleasure. Megan tackled physical and mental obstacles with grit and grace. She learned new hobbies and sports just to spend time with the people she loved, like training and riding in RAGBRAI with her brother and friends. She loved her friends’ children as if they were her own, taught them skills like skiing and cooking and having fun, and proudly earned her Auntie title at numerous band concerts, birthday parties, and sporting events. She extended her affectionate care to her friends’ parents as well. She loved to laugh and had an ear for a corny joke.

Megan was employed as an engineer at John Deere Dubuque Works for 17 years. While she flourished at Deere, she retired in order to pursue her long-awaited role of mother (spreadsheets helped then too). She adored her little boy, Titus, and cherished every moment she got to spend with him and Joel. They enjoyed traveling, hiking, exploring, family movie night, and laughing together.

All of the moments of Megan’s life, both beautiful and difficult, revolved around her commitment to following Jesus Christ as the Lord of her life. She first accepted Jesus as her Savior in 1985 at the age of 5. She continued to grow in her knowledge and love of Him throughout her life, participating in church youth groups (high school) and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship (college). After moving to Dubuque in 2002, she was active in her local churches, first at Galena Bible Church and for the last 10 years at Bridge Christian Church. She served in various capacities from worship team to youth leader to deaconess. Wherever and however she participated, she endeavored to live in the love of Jesus authentically, asking real questions, studying Scripture for true answers, and leading others to a deeper relationship with the Good Shepherd. Above and beyond everything else, she desired to please God, and she increasingly looked forward to spending eternity in Heaven with Him.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband, Joel and their son, Titus, of Dubuque; her mother, Jane Weston, of Dubuque; her brother and sister-in-law, Michael and Sarah Weston; nephew, Mason Weston; her paternal grandmother, PJ Weston and paternal aunt, Shirley Weston, all of Fort Myers, FL; her maternal uncles, Tim Whitver and Dan Whitver; her parents-in-law, Tim and Peggy Pinkham, of Washington, IN; and sister-in-law, Rebekah Pinkham, of Indianapolis, IN; her “first babies” Caleb, Audrey, Peter, and Jasmine Wagner, Galena, IL.

Megan was preceded in death by her father, Gary; her maternal grandparents and her paternal grandfather.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for the family to purchase memorial benches, to InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, and to the Avery Foundation.

The family would like to extend a deeply heartfelt Thank You to Dr. Hermann, Oncology nurse, Bobye Manning, and the entire Grand River Medical Group Oncology Team. Through all the years of treatment, she was so grateful for the care she received both in Dubuque and in Rochester, MN.

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

Additional stories and memories for the family to treasure can be posted on the living memorial page https://murial.life/meganpinkham.

Sr. Veronica Higgins, BVM

Sister Veronica “Ronnie” Higgins, BVM, (Rosine), 79, of Mount Carmel Bluffs, 1160 Carmel Drive, Dubuque, Iowa, died Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

Visitation will be from 9-9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, in the Mary Frances Clarke Chapel at Mount Carmel Bluffs. Sharing of Memories will be at 9:30 a.m., followed immediately by the Mass of Christian Burial. Burial is in the Mount Carmel Cemetery.

Sister Veronica was an elementary teacher in Des Moines, Iowa; Iowa City, Iowa; East Moline, Ill.; and Chicago, where she also served as a secondary teacher. She worked in the public relations office and the learning center at Mundelein College in Chicago. She ministered as a hospital chaplain in Arlington Heights, Ill.; Springfield, Ill; Belleville, Ill.; and St. Louis.

She was born Nov. 21, 1945, in Chicago, to Joseph and Roseanne (Keenan) Higgins. She entered the BVM congregation July 31, 1963, from St. Bartholomew Parish, Chicago. She professed first vows on Feb. 2, 1966, and final vows on Jan. 6, 1974.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings Bernadette (Edward) Nolan, Pat Higgins, Tom Higgins and Dan Higgins. She is survived by nieces and nephews and the Sisters of Charity, BVM, with whom she shared life for 61years.

Miller Funeral Home 1185 Hwy 35 N, East Dubuque, Ill. 61025 is in charge of arrangements.

Charlene Muntz

Charlene Muntz, 75, of Dubuque, IA passed away June 24, 2025, at Banner Baywood Hospital, Mesa, AZ.

Visitation will be from 4:00-7:00p.m., Monday, July 7, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. Visitation will continue from 10:00-10:45a.m., Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at the funeral home, with memorial services immediately following at 11:00a.m.

Charlene “Char” was born on September 18, 1949, to Charles and Gloria (Hantelman) Skemp in Dubuque, Iowa. She married James Forrest Muntz on May 24, 1969, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Dubuque, Iowa.

Char attended Dubuque Senior High School, where she graduated in 1967. She then attended The University of Dubuque, where she graduated in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in education and a teaching certificate.

Char worked as a teacher for two years at Table Mound Elementary School in Key West, IA and was a substitute teacher for many years in the Dubuque Community School District. Char started her career as a legal secretary at Joseph Bitter, Attorney at Law, then moved to Reynolds and Kenline Law Firm. Char ended her career at Clemens, Walters, Conlon, Runde & Hiatt, LLP.

Char loved arts and crafts and was well known for her homemade cards, she also loved to decorate, especially for holidays. Char had a love for well-worn antiques, shopping, and the art deco style. Char was a card shark who loved euchre, hand & foot, and bridge. She was very competitive (especially in euchre). Char was very active, she loved playing golf, racket ball, and walking. Char and Jim had a love for travel, including taking all-inclusive resort trips, cruises, and an “occasional” trip to Las Vegas. Char cherished time with her many friends and family, but especially with her grandchildren Jake, Savannah and Penelope. After retirement Jim and Char became snowbirds and had a second home in Mesa, AZ, where they enjoyed golfing, playing cards, and going to potlucks with their friends. Jim and Char also loved off roading in their yellow Jeep Wrangler.

Char is survived by her husband, Jim; two daughters, Jenni Anderson (Donald Anderson), of Pingree Grove, IL and Amy Paulsen-Beer (Mark Beer), of Marion, IA; two grandchildren, Jacob Paulsen, of Cedar Rapids, IA and Savannah Beer, of Marion, IA; one great grandchild, Penelope Paulsen, of Cedar Rapids, IA; two sisters, Linda Heyer, of Dubuque, IA and Sharon Parker, of Dubuque, IA; brother, Charlie “Chuck” Skemp (Juli Skemp), of Dubuque, IA; sister-in-law, Andrea Muntz, of Dubuque, IA; four nephews, Brett Heyer, Jared Skemp, Charlie Skemp and Greg Muntz; four nieces, Jodi Schuster, Sarah Cosley, Sophia Skemp and Rachel Muntz.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Charlie and Gloria Skemp, her in-laws, Lowell “Bud” and Betty Muntz and brother-in-law Gary Muntz.

Special Thank you to all friends and family for your love and support.

The family welcomes flowers as a meaningful way to express sympathy. Those wishing to send flowers can have them delivered to Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home at 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque, IA, 52002 for the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in honor or memory of Char Muntz to Wounded Warrior Project at https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org.

Louis McDermott

Louis McDermott, 103, of Dyersville, Iowa passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025 at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Louis will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 on Monday, July 7, 2025 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian burial for Louis will be held at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev. Phillip Agyei presiding.

Louis was born October 27, 1921 in Placid, Iowa, son of William and Julia (Faley) McDermott.  He received his education in the rural country school in Placid and graduated from Epworth High School.  On August 28, 1945 he was united in marriage to Mabel Bradley at St. Patrick’s Church in Epworth, Iowa.  She preceded him in death in January 2011.

He helped his father on the farm during World War II.  He was quite an energetic entrepreneur, at age 16 he started buying farm equipment and doing custom work for other farmers, at 17 he bought a thrashing machine from an area farmer and started doing custom thrashing for all the neighbors around Pleasant Grove.  A year later he took over a creamery route from his father-in-law.  He then sold out and went into a used car business with his brother, Clare in Dubuque.  They were both licensed pilots for some time.  In 1949 Louis purchased the Ford dealership in Dyersville and operated it for 31 years.  He was a big boost for the Dyersville community and he was proud to call Dyersville home.

He was an avid and accomplished golfer.  He golfed until he was 100 and was proud of his hole in one.  He enjoyed cooking and was known for his skills in the kitchen.  He loved to play Euchre and to gamble a bit playing Poker.  He enjoyed traveling, to Lake Havasu City and camping in Colorado with his family in the big blue bus/camper.  He liked to stay busy in the garage working on mowers or just tinkering.

He was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Dyersville, Iowa, a member of the Dyersville Knights of Columbus-Council #1734, and a member of the Dyersville Country Club.

He is survived by his four children, Marie Schuster of Dyersville, Kym (Greg) Hauser of Cedar Rapids, Todd (MaryJo) McDermott of Dubuque, and Tanya (Gene) Schlichte of Dyersville; a daughter-in-law, Sharon McDermott of Marion; 12 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and one sister-in-law, Madonna Bradley of Sebring, FL.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; one daughter, Cherry Beth McDermott on Dec. 10, 1949; two sons, Lanz McDermott on May 31, 2010 and Dean McDermott on April 10, 2024; a son-in-law, Mark Schuster; a grandson, Jeffery McDermott; his siblings, Melvin (Loretta) McDermott, Marie (Gene) Carmody, Callista (John) Secker, Hazel (Jim) Woods, Clare (Bertha) McDermott, Bernice (Clifford) Knippel, and Luanus (Dr. Roger) Ott Sr.; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Truman and Rose (Kroeger) Bradley; and three brothers-in-law, Donald Bradley, Kenneth Bradley and Dale Bradley.

Constance Jo Johnson

Constance Jo “Connie” Johnson, 76, of Spragueville, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Monday evening, June 30, 2025, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

Born January 7, 1949, in Maquoketa, Connie was the daughter of Harold and Gloria Ann (Budde) McCutcheon. She grew up in Andrew, Iowa, graduated from Preston High School, and earned an associate degree from Clinton Community College. Connie spent 35 years with Caterpillar, retiring as a DBSI Learning Consultant. She also worked as a purchasing manager at S & H Fabricating and PMW.

Connie first married Kenneth L. Snyder, with whom she had two daughters, Kimberly Sue and Diane Lynn. During that time, the family home in rural Spragueville was built—a place she lovingly maintained after marrying Jeffrey “Jeff” Johnson in 1981. Surrounded by gardens and animals, Connie found great joy in rural life.

Following retirement, she adjusted from a busy travel schedule to a life centered on home. Her days began with coffee and the Today Show, caring for animals, and tending her gardens. She was an active member of the Andrew Lions Club, Andrew Saddle Club, Caterpillar Retirees Club, and volunteered at Re-Store. Horseback riding with her daughters remained one of her favorite activities.

Connie’s greatest joy was being a grandma. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought light to her life. She never missed a chance to support, cheer, or love them fully.

Survivors include her husband Jeff; daughters Kimberly (Jon) Elizondo and Diane (fiancé Al Lyons) Miller; stepchildren David (Lynda) Johnson and Lisa (Kim) Johnson; siblings Terese (Jim) Berthel, Karen (John) Gibbs, and Nick (Dee) McCutcheon; and many beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her dog Daisy. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers William “Billy,” Mark, and Dwaine.

A celebration of her life will be held at 3 P.M., Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, with a gathering from 4–6 P.M. in “The Bistro.” Burial at St. John’s Cemetery, Andrew, will follow at a later date.

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

Martin G. Schuster

Martin G. Schuster, 65, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away June 29, 2025, at MercyOne in Dubuque.

A private family burial will take place at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Dubuque, Iowa. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Martin was born on June 5, 1960, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Alfred and Elizabeth “Betty” (Bakey) Schuster. He attended Dubuque Senior High School, and later received his GED. Martin honorably served in the U.S. Navy, where he was enlisted for 14 years before being medically discharged as a Petty Officer.

He married Kimberly Reinhardt on September 6, 2014, at Breitbach’s in Sherrill, Iowa. Martin worked for Kimbie Enterprises, LLC as a Livestock Hauler until his medical retirement. He enjoyed fishing, playing the lottery, and his canine companions.

Martin is survived by his wife, Kimberly; his mother, Betty; brothers: Mike (Chrystal Miller) Schuster of Omaha, NE, Mark Schuster of Omaha, NE, and Matthew (Lisa) Schuster of LaMotte, IA; his sister, Denise (Kevin Guizar) Schuster of Waukesha, WI; brother-in-law, Randy Reinhardt of Dubuque; sisters-in-law, Karen Orcutt and Karla Reinhardt both of Dubuque, along with many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, Alfred, his sister, Diana Schuster, his mother and father-in-law Ferdinand and Rosemary Reinhardt, brothers-in-law Richard Reinhardt and Ferdinand Reinhardt Jr., and sister-in-law Kathy Schuster.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.

The family would like to thank Dr. Mark Janes, along with his staff, MercyOne ER and the 3rd floor staff for their compassion and excellent care.

Leo A. Kilburg

Leo A. Kilburg, 89 of Bellevue, passed away on Tuesday, July 1, 2025. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 am on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. A Rosary will be recited at 3:30 pm with visitation following until 7:00 pm, Monday, July 7, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. An additional visitation will be held from 9:00 am – 10:00 am at the funeral home prior to Mass on Tuesday. Burial with Military Honors conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery. 

Leo was born on January 15, 1936, in rural Bellevue on the family farm, the son of Dominic and Florence (Weis) Kilburg. He attended a country school and grew up with a strong sense of faith and family. He served his country in the US Army in France. On April 11, 1964, he married Janis Herrig at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Springbrook. Together, they built a life centered on faith, hard work, and love.

 Leo worked at Roeder’s Implement until his marriage at which time he became a dedicated farmer. Leo and Janis raised their children on the farm west of Bellevue and in 1997 they retired from farming and moved into Bellevue.  He then worked for Marquette Catholic School in the lunchroom for many years. Deeply committed to his Catholic faith he was a faithful member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. He attended Mass regularly and recited the Rosary daily.  His quiet strength, steady presence, and warm heart will be dearly missed. He always loved a good Luxembourg conversation.

 Survivors include his beloved wife, Janis; their children, Brian (Cindy) Kilburg of Clinton, Brenda Fox of Davenport, Karen Kilburg of Davenport, Mark (Sarah) Kilburg of Ryan, Lisa (Kevin) Hackenmiller of Springville, Cindy (Shane) Robertson of Springville and Julie Kilburg of Davenport. Nine grandchildren: Cameron Fox, Christina (Brandon) Rodier, Kyle (Emily) Kilburg, Ryan (Kelli) Kilburg, Jacob Kilburg, Lizzie Kilburg, Emily Robertson, Evan Robertson, Dylan Hackenmiller and a much anticipated great grandchild will be arriving in October. His siblings, Vera (Levi) Schmidt and Dula (Leon) Tebbe; sisters-in-law, Katie Kilburg, Jean Kilburg, Bette Herrig, Dori (Randy) Tuftee and brother-in-law Dan (Renee) Herrig. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

 He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings and in-laws, Alvin (Estelle) Kilburg, Albert (Mary) Kilburg, Vernon Kilburg, Rita (Raymond) Roling, Marcella “Sally” (Paul) Banowetz, Earl Kilburg, Edna (Michael) Reuter, Lloyd (Monica) Kilburg, Kenneth Kilburg, Vincent (Judy) Kilburg, Lois Herrig and Dave Herrig. 

A memorial fund has been established in Leo’s memory.

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

Duane A. Nemmers

Duane A. “Minnow” Nemmers, 69, of Bellevue, passed on Saturday, June 21, 2025.  Graveside Services will be 11:30 am, Saturday, July 19, 2025, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.   Family will greet friends 10:00 am – 11:00 am prior to Graveside Services at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. 

Duane was born on May 25, 1956, the son of Virgil and Algean (Berthel) Nemmers.  He graduated from Bellevue Community High School in 1976.  Duane enjoyed spending most of his life at the cabin, fishing on the river, hunting, driving truck, socializing with many of his friends, and giving out M&M’s to his nieces and nephews. There never was a fish he didn’t catch or an animal he didn’t hunt, including mushrooms.  Duane had many friends that he enjoyed hanging out with, it seemed no matter where you went someone knew who Minnow was and could share great times they had with him and shared those stories with his family.  Duane drove semi-truck for many companies including Bimbo Bakeries, and Tracy Export, later retiring in 2023. 

Survivors include his mother, Algean; his brothers Larry (Deb) Nemmers of Bellevue, Iowa, Joe (Judy) Nemmers of Des Moines, Iowa, and a sister Mary Beth (Rick) Michels of Bellevue, Iowa and many nieces and nephews. 

Duane was preceded in death by his father Virgil Nemmers and a brother Darrell Nemmers.

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

Dennis E. Schlarmann

Dennis E. Schlarmann, 79 formerly of rural Preston, passed away on Monday, June 30, 2025 at Ramsey Village in Des Moines, IA.  Funeral Service will be 11:00 am, Monday, July 7, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Visitation will be 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue. Additional visitation will begin at 10:00 am, Monday morning at the Church prior to services.  Burial with Military Honors conducted by the American Legion  will be in St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery in Bellevue.

Dennis was born December 24, 1945 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Eugene and Imelda (Budde) Schlarmann and graduated from Marquette High School in Bellevue.  Dennis married Rose Marie Pataska on June 29, 1968, she passed on November 8, 2013.  After serving in the US Army, he worked for the Chicago Northwestern/Union Pacific railroads as a welder and carpenter, until retiring.  Dennis spent much of his retirement crafting and woodworking, making beautiful projects for his family and friends. He loved spending time with family, especially his 5 grandchildren.

Survivors include his children, David Schlarmann (Shauneen Linton), Steven (Sally) Schlarmann, and Melissa (Ahmet) Senyurekli; grandchildren, Kirsten Schlarmann, Rowan Schlarmann, and Aydin, Leyla, and Teo Senyurekli; siblings,  Sandy (Dick) Birch, Marlene (Greg) Hying, Mike (Sharon) Schlarmann, Brian (Arleigh) Schlarmann, and Barb (Doug) Stoughton; sisters and brothers in-law, Julie Schlarmann, Rochelle Pataska, Erma Labolabo Schlarmann, Dale (Judy) Pataska, Darrell (Ellen) Pataska, and John (Olinda) Pataska; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Michael Feltes

Michael “Mike” Feltes, 77, of Dubuque, died Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the MercyOne Medical Center in Dubuque.

To honor Mike’s wishes, no services will be held. A private family burial will be held at Linwood Cemetery.

Michael was born August 31, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Ivan and Mary (Schenker) Feltes.

Mike worked for 60 years. He worked at Kraft Corporation for 12 years, UPS for 36 years, and the Jule Transit for 12 years.

Mike was involved in softball, bowling, and golf.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Carolyn Feltes of Dubuque; son, Allen (Mochelle) Feltes of Richmond Heights, OH; two brothers, Dave and Mark (Judy Lange) Feltes, of Dubuque; one sister, Barb (Paul) Horsefall of Dubuque; and siblings-in-law, Mary Feltes, Allen (Sue Hammord) Zahina of Dewitt, IA, Ken (Alaine) Zahina, Richard (Kathy) Zahina, Susan Pregler, Mary Ellen (Milton) George, Kathy Zahina of West Palm Beach, FL, Jean Steuer of Hazel Green, WI, Joan (Dr. Larry) James of Mililani, HI, David (Marie) Zahina of Snohomish, WA, Donna Zahina of Juneau, AK, William  (Lisa) Zahina of Bristol, CT, Dr. John (Eddy) Rames Zahina of Crystal Lake, IL, and Kevin Zahina of Chimacum, WA.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Tom Feltes, and siblings-in-law, William (Joyce) Thul, Jan Feltes, and Lynn Feltes.

Mike’s family would like to thank Dr. Caceres, Dr. Ram, Dr. Janes, Dr. Dolehide, Karina Sauser, Amy McDermott, the East Campus Lab, and the nurses in the ICU for the awesome care during Mike’s final days. Thank you, Dad for the encouragement each day to fight the good fight, run the good race, and keeping the faith.

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

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

Donald P. Schmitt

Donald P. “Don” Schmitt, age 80, of Dubuque, IA, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  Services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, July 9,  2025, at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 1199 Main Street in Dubuque, IA, with Pastor Stephanie Schlimm officiating.  Visitation will be from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.

Don was born on October 23, 1944, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Bernard and Sylvia (Klein) Schmitt.  He married Charlotte “Char” Baal, on September 28, 1968.  They were blessed with 56 wonderful years together and a son, Dale, to love and nurture along the way.   Don served six years in the Army National Guard.  He faithfully devoted his time and talents as a maintenance mechanic at the Dubuque Packing Co. until it closed.  Don enjoyed spending time with his family on the Mississippi River fishing, skiing, and boating.  Don truly made the world around him a better place in every way possible.  We will miss him dearly, and are grateful for every loving memory.

Those left to cherish the memory of Don include,

his loving wife,
Charlotte “Char” Schmitt, Dubuque, IA;

his son,
Dale Schmitt (Jen), Solon, IA;

along with numerous extended family, and many wonderful friends, and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; and his mother and father-in-law, Ralph (Marcella) Baal.

Rose M. Huseman

Rose Marie (Doyle) Huseman passed away on June 29, 2025 at Stonehill Care Facility. Visitation will be from 9:30-11:45 Thursday July 3rd at Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road. Funeral Services will immediately follow at at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Rose was born on December 17, 1932 to Harvey and Faye (Heffern) Doyle in Dubuque, Iowa.

She attended St Raphael’s Cathedral and graduated from St Peter’s High School in Clermont, Iowa where she cooked and cleaned to earn her tuition. She was in the Drama Club and Musicals. She was united in marriage to Richard Huseman at St Raphael’s on June 28, 1952. The two shared 73 wonderful years together.

She worked as a nurse’s aide at St Mary’s Hospital from 1949-1951. She retired from Mercy Hospital after 25 years of service.

In her free time she enjoyed painting ceramics. She painted all of her children Christmas Village pieces. She enjoyed shopping with her daughters. She had a special daughter-in-law, Judy (Vestal) Huseman. She enjoyed helping other people saying “that’s how you get to heaven”. Rose was loved by everyone. She was a very loving and compassionate person. She always had a smile on her face.

She is survived by her children; Jane (John) Kiefer of Dubuque, Kay (Al) Muller of Cassville, Cindy Strub of Dubuque, Richard Jr (Judy) of Davenport, Mary (Mike) Oldham of Dubuque, Cheri Cochran of Dubuque. Brother in laws Ray (Joanne) Huseman, Vern (Donna) Husemann, 13 grand children and 30 great grand children.

Rose was preceded in death by her husband Richard Huseman on May 25, 2025. Parents; Harvey and Faye Doyle, son-in-laws Tim Strub and Jacky Cochran, Siblings; Colleen (George) Smith, Kate (Louis) Husemann, Betty (Louis)Wagner, Donald (Betty) Doyle, in-laws; Donald and Joyce Husemann, Audrey Husemann, Adele and Red Heiderscheit, Larry Ties, Dick Maas, JoAnne Husemann.

Rose’s family wish to extend a most heartfelt thank you to the wonderful and caring staff at Stonehill Care Facility and Hospice of Dubuque. Your kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

Lonnie Shaben

Lonnie Shaben, 85, of Dubuque, died Monday, June 30, 2025, at Eagle Pointe Place in Dubuque.

Private family graveside services will be held at the Cassville Cemetery in Cassville, Wisconsin.

Lonnie was born on April 9, 1940, in Cassville, WI, the son of Clifford and Agnes (Brinkman) Shaben. On July 31, 1984, he married Helen Walker in Lancaster, WI.

Lonnie graduated from Cassville High School in 1958. He worked for John Deere Dubuque Works until his retirement after 35 years.

Lonnie loved the great outdoors. He spent any free time either hunting or fishing.

Survivors include his wife, Helen Shaben of Dubuque; three children, Lori (Tom) Tracy of Cassville, WI, Sheri (Paul) Leibfried of Lancaster, WI, and Rich (Christine) Shaben of Portage, WI; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; two sisters, Gloria Hudson and Judy (Dennis) Laufenberg both of Cassville, WI; and brother-in-law, John Schnorrenberg.

Besides his parents, Lonnie was preceded in death by seven siblings, Jean (Vincent) Vondrum, Leroy Shaben, John Shaben, Lea Mae (Lester) Esser, Joanne “Sis” (Gerald) Duncan, Lila (Jupe) Hochhausen, and Rose Mary Schnorrenberg, and one brother-in-law, Bob Hudson.

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

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

Lois E. Ronek

Lois E. Ronek, age 95, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on June 30, 2025, at Luther Manor while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Lois’ life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Lois’ family.

Lois was born on March 27, 1930, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Robert and Ella (Thompson) Waller.  She was gifted with an energetic spirit and a drive and determination to get the most out of each day.  Lois was united in marriage to the love of her life, Charles Ronek and the two were blessed with many children to raise under their love and care.  Sadly, Charles was called home ahead of Lois in the July of 1969.

Lois possessed a strong work ethic which never wavered.  She faithfully devoted her time and talents with Clinton Engines and Carrigan’s, before finally spending her last years as a seamstress with Rite Hite before moving into retirement.  Lois made many friends along the way and always gave her best with every task she was given.  In her free-time, Lois rarely sat down, but when she did, you could usually find her sitting comfortably in her favorite chair with Lawrence Welk on the TV and her trusty crochet needles working vigorously in her productive hands.  Lois was blessed with 95 years among us and the memories she leaves behind are both beautiful and abundant.  We are forever grateful for all of the love she so generously shared with the world around her and now only wait patiently to see her beautiful smile once again.  Thank you, Lois, for keeping life simply, reminding us that each day is what you make of it, and may you find eternal peace now as you are reunited with all of your loved one’s who’ve been called home before you.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Lois include,

her children,
Al (Nancy) Ronek, Bradenton, FL,
Donna (Robert) Steines, Dubuque, IA,
Wayne (Colleen) Ronek, TN,
Shirley Blakenship, Belgrade, MT,
Norma Ronek, Dubuque, IA,
and Thomas Ronek, IA;

her 18 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren;

her sister-in-law,
Donna Cummings, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Lorraine (Justin) Ronek, Joyce (James) Cartmill, Helen (Frank) Hedrick, Donald (Kay) Waller, and Ralph Cummings.

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

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

Gary L. Koeller

Gary L. Koeller, age 82, of Potosi, WI, completed his earthly journey suddenly on June 30, 2025, at the Lancaster Nursing Home.  Per Gary’s request, there will be no public services.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Gary’s family.

Gary was born on March 29, 1943, in Potosi, WI, a son to Harold and Virginia (Meyer) Koeller.  He was a proud member of the 32nd Division National Guard and honorably served his country throughout his years.  Gary faithfully devoted his time at talents at John Deere Dubuque Works and eventually moved into retirement in 1994.  Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing in his free-time and always found joy in building his bird houses and placing them around the Potosi area.  He was a good and decent man who loved his family, friends and community.  We will miss Gary until we meet again and seek peace and comfort within the memories he leaves behind.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Gary include,

his loving wife,
Sandra (Peake) Koeller, Potosi, WI;

his son,
Jeff (Jody) Koeller, Potosi, WI;

his adored grandchildren,
Jacy Koeller, Boynton Beach, FL,
Jordan Koeller, Denver, CO,
and Jade (Mike) Loehe, Edgerton, WI;

his great-grandchildren,
Trey and Jace Loehe;

his sisters,
Sharon Bierman, Potosi, WI,
and Bonnie (Bruce Wackershauser) Dailey, Glen Haven, WI;

his brother,
David (Phyllis) Koeller, Tiffin, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Dennis Koeller.

Gary’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the Lancaster Nursing Home for their compassionate care.

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