Obituaries Archive

Joyce M. Hildebrand

Joyce Marie Hildebrand, age 71, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2024 at Harmony Dubuque.

To celebrate Joyce’s life, family and friends may visit from 1:00 p.m. until 3:45 p.m., on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory, at 3860 Asbury Road, Dubuque, Iowa 52002, where there will be a prayer service at 4:00 pm.

Joyce was born on January 28, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Albert and Mary (Miller) Hildebrand, Joyce is the 4th youngest of 16 siblings. Joyce graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, where she went on to become a CNA/CMA at NICC. Joyce enjoyed working as a CNA/CMA at Mount Carmel and Sinsinawa Mound with the sisters and working for Home Instead of Dubuque. In Joyce’s free time she enjoyed playing euchre, and man was she a mean player. Joyce enjoyed spoiling her fur babies (Barron, Luna, and Bailey) and her godchildren (Phillip, Kara, and Samuel) and spending time with family and friends. Joyce loved to travel with friends and family all over the US.

Those left to cherish Joyce’s memory include her siblings, Catherine (Roger) Bartels, Durango, IA, Verna (Vesse) Klostermann, Edgewood, IA, Carol (David) Gaul, Guttenburg, IA, Norma (Richard) Kelchen, Farley, IA, Steve Hildebrand, Dyersville, IA, Richard (Donna) Hildebrand, Texas and Albert (Kelly) Hildebrand Jr., Dixon, IL; her five sisters-in-law, Helen Hildebrand, Phyllis Hildebrand, Elaine (Dave) Shaw, Elaine Hildebrand, and Helen Hildebrand; her godchildren; Phillip (Julie) Hildebrand, Dubuque; Kara (Mitchell) Kress (VanOstrand), Platteville, WI; and Samuel Hildebrand, Dixon, IL; best friend and caretaker, Ernie VanOstrand of Dubuque; a very special niece, Patsy Schueller of Epworth; and many other nieces and nephews.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; step-mother, Gladys; siblings, Robert Hildebrand, Mary Milligan, Ruth Wagner, Jerome Hildebrand, Leonard Hildebrand, Thomas Hildebrand, Gladys Gaul, and Loras Hildebrand.

Joyce’s family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Ryan Stille, the nurses and staff of Harmony Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque, for all of their kindness and the wonderful care they have provided Joyce. Also, a special thanks to all our extended family for all of their love and support, especially, Ernie VanOstrand.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

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

Joshua J. Fee

Joshua J. “Josh” Fee, age 38, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on February 13, 2024, at home while surrounded by his loving family. 

To honor Josh’s life, a private family Celebration of Life is being held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Josh’s family.

Josh was born on October 18, 1985, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John N. and Mary Beth (Stockel) Fee.  He was softhearted, thoughtful and had a gentle, kind and loving soul.  His happiest times were spent with his daughters and his four-legged son, Levi, who were the love of his life.  Josh was an auto mechanic by trade and invested countless hours into perfecting his craft, always keeping up with the newest technologies.  He spent many years working with Wheelworks, Riley Subaru, and most recently with Discount Tire.  Josh valued his time away from work as well and found plenty of ways to share his joy with those around him.  He enjoyed sports and being in the outdoors with family and friends.  He was content to watch his Chicago Bears take the field, but truth be known, Josh would rather be playing basketball, baseball, or games his daughters, niece, nephew, and cousins choose and always treasured the opportunity to help coach his daughter’s soccer team.

Josh also made it a priority to take time spending a sunny afternoon walking the nature trails, crawdad hunting and other activities he shared with his daughters at Swiss Valley.  And to top it off, if a little camping, a good campfire and cookout could be fit into the weekend he was beyond satisfied.  Josh was an accomplished cook as well and always looked forward to a new challenge and any unique twist he could add to the recipe to make it his own.  When the day was done and a little spare time remained, Josh would never neglect the chance to grab his video game controller and play with anyone willing to share in the moment. 

His kid at heart attitude was visible quite often to anyone who spent time around Josh and the children especially looked forward to hanging out with the coolest grown up anyone could ever hope to meet.  And most would know that Josh absolutely anticipated the Halloween season.  Costumes, pranks, and good fun overall were had with each year’s celebration and Josh only aspired to always take it to the next level from the year before for all to enjoy.  It’s impossible today to even attempt to envision a world moving forward without Josh’s big heart.  We accept that his earthly battles are now over and eternal peace can now be found, but for those of us who knew and loved Josh, we can only hope that time will help to heal the larger than life void which we hold in our hearts today. 

Thank you, Josh, for reminding us that life is short and we must attempt to have both moments of seriousness and fun to truly find that perfect balance during the time that we are here.  May the Lord keep you safe in His loving arms until we all see your radiant smile and hear your sincere laugh once again.      

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Josh include, his three adored daughters, Kaylie Mary, Melanie Rebecca, and Lacie Lynn, Dubuque, IA; their mother, Ariel Fischer, Dubuque, IA; his parents, John and Mary Beth Fee, Dubuque, IA; his brother and sister-in-law, Nathan and Ashley (Coyle) Fee, Dubuque, IA; his niece and nephew, Maverick Fee and Everley Fee, Dubuque, IA; his special friend, Jodie Bradbery, Dubuque, IA; along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Josh was preceded in death by his grandparents, John and Mary Jane “Becky” (Betke) Fee and William P. “Bill” and Dorothy (Pollock) Stockel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made in Josh’s name to the Operation Empower-Liberty Recovery Center, 2216 White Street, Dubuque, IA, 52001.

Josh’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to thank all of our family and friends along with the staff at the Tri-State Cremation Center for their love and support during this difficult time. 

Josh’s love and light was just too big for this world to contain and to discover such an outpouring of love in return has truly brought some much-needed comfort to our broken hearts and we are forever grateful for each and every one of you who have helped and played your roles perfectly along the way.

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

Marilyn A. McDonald

Marilyn A. McDonald, 75, of Dubuque, IA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at Stonehill Care Center.

A Mass of Christian celebration will be held on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, where friends may call at 9:30 AM prior to the service. Rev. Dennis Quint will officiate. Entombment will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery immediately following the service. A dinner will be hosted at the Morocco Supper Club following the committal service. 

Marilyn was a beautiful, lively human being.  She was blessed with a kind heart, a fierce mind, and a gentle spirit. Marilyn was very creative and loved musicals and Broadway performances…. So, with that, let us start the show that was this Irish lass’ life and her Tony-Award winning performance…

Born on March 13, 1948, to John and Dorothy (Healey) McFarland, Marilyn, and her beloved older brother, Michael, were raised in a loving home, surrounded by music, art, literature, and a deep knowledge and appreciation for current events and World affairs.

Marilyn had a wonderful and active childhood. Whether it was playing with her neighborhood friends (many lifelong) or attending Sacred Heart School or ice skating at nearby Comiskey Park (and breaking her leg non-show biz style), she was alive and curious about the World. She would take this same curiosity and creativity with her to Wahlert Catholic High School (where she sang and performed in musicals) and later to Mount Mary College in Milwaukee.

While home from college (intermission during the show), Marilyn happened upon a tall, handsome Irish lad with jet-black hair named Gary McDonald. It’s at this point that the music and choreography of the performance changed. In 1968, the Irish lad “married-up” in class (BTW…dad knows this is true) and the music and show continued to play for another fifty-five plus years of blessed and loving marriage. Marilyn and Gary were blessed (and later humorously challenged) with the arrival of two children, Michelle, and Daniel. That’s where the next scene begins…

With Gary working multiple jobs, Marilyn became immersed, fiercely protective, and interested in Missy and Danny’s (those names stuck) childhood development and schooling. Always having fun, exploring, and letting her kids be kids, Marilyn showed them the largess and beauty of the things we all share on the Big Blue Marble. Mom would often pack the kids in the car and take many day trips to various parks and venues (mom could really rock that 1975 mint green Dodge Dart).

Marilyn spoiled her kiddos almost to a fault. When Dad would say “no” mom would say “yes” (many wonderful dogs/family members from the Humane Society). Her kids also knew, however, that she could be a velvet hammer and would tell them they needed to shape-up (or else she would tell dad…which she never did BTW). While having fun teaching her kids (including many of the kids from the neighborhood, too) she kept her show skills sharp as she performed with her beautiful voice in the Saint Patrick’s choir.

With her own children now adults and eventually having their own families, Marilyn was able to dust off the script and musical score for the next scenes with her six, beloved grandchildren. Grandma Marilyn was able to do and show her grandkids some of the very same, wonderful things that she shared with Missy and Danny. It was also at this time that the second act of Marilyn’s wonderful performance was about to begin….

Marilyn had a deep kindness, love, and sincere respect for all people and all creatures. The kind that you can neither fake nor buy with all the money in the World.  Marilyn, with such beautiful qualities in her DNA and spirit, would then share her gifts as a volunteer for many organizations and worthy causes. Yet, there was no place that mom spent more hours, days, and years than she did while volunteering at Stonehill Care Center. Mom would always be present and in the moment if a resident or visitor needed an ear, a shoulder to cry on, or just a good laugh and smile.

Additionally, Marilyn was a proud Southpaw with impeccable hand-writing and beautiful cursive slants & swooshes (a humorous thank you to the Franciscan Sisters of Sacred Heart School for giving us a true lefty). To the previous point, Marilyn was a prolific writer of cards and letters to people she knew and those she had just met. Always a positive thought, word of encouragement, or just a random funny thing or observation. Marilyn’s family has saved many of these letters and cards over the years. They bring us joy to this day and are worth more than all the Gold in Fort Knox.

Marilyn’s kind and gentle award-winning performance (as a daughter, sister, wife, mom, grandma, aunt, and friend to every soul and person she met) will now shift venues. Call it the great gig in the sky. While there is comfort and peace knowing that mom will be in the good hands of the Lord, she will be missed. The show must go on, Mom!!

Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents and brother, as well as many other family members, in-laws, and friends. Marilyn is survived by her husband of 55 years, Gary McDonald; daughter Michelle McDonald-De Tomaso (son-in-law Joey); son Daniel McDonald; Grandchildren Madelyn (Curt) Jantsch-Walske, Alex (Kate) Jantsch, Ryan (India) Jantsch; Brennan (fiancé Abigail) McDonald, Connor McDonald, Caroline McDonald.  She is also survived by former daughter-in-law, Shelly McDonald and former son-in-law, William Jantsch, Jr., as well as many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. In lieu of flowers, and per Marilyn’s wishes, memorials / donations can be given to Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church, Stonehill Care Center, or a charity committed to helping others and spreading kindness.

The family wishes to offer sincere thanks and gratitude to Marilyn’s close friends both past and present (you know who you are), as well as the amazing, caring, and compassionate staffs at both Stonehill Care Center and 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 Marilyn’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Norbert H. Smith

Norbert H. Smith, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away at 5:58 p.m., on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque surrounded by his loving family. 

To honor Norb’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 5131 Sherrill Road, Sherrill, IA.  There will also be visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 10:15 a.m., before Mass at the church.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, February 19, 2024, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, with Rev. Tyler C. Raymond officiating.  Burial will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Norb’s family.

Norb was born on May 11, 1938, in Dubuque County, Iowa, son of William and Mary (Knockel) Smith. 

Norb attended Sts. Peter and Paul School in Sherrill.  He was a life long dairy farmer in Sherrill before moving to Sageville in 1998.  He was also a dealer for Archer Oil.  Norb married the love of his life, Betty Schroeder, on June 10, 1961, at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Balltown.  They were blessed with a large family and celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary last year.  Norb was very active in his community.  He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Church, the Catholic Order of Foresters, Hawkeye Vintage Farm Machinery Association and the Tri-County Sportsman Club.  Norb also served on the Sherrill Fire Department for 34 years.  In his free time, Norb enjoyed spending time outside watching the boys pull tractors, fishing, squirrel and deer hunting, working in his big garden, cutting wood and a warm fire.  He also liked watching Gunsmoke, Westerns and playing Euchre with family and friends.  Norb was an excellent role model for his family, always putting others before himself.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Norb’s memory include: his wife, Betty Smith, Sageville, IA; 8 children, Kevin (Wendy) Smith, Sherrill, IA, Marvin (Kim) Smith, Sherrill, IA, Sheila (Ken) Maro, LaMotte, IA, Patrick (Tina) Smith, Sherrill, IA, Allan (Janet) Smith, Sherrill, IA, Bill (Mindy) Smith, Sherrill, IA, Tom (Rhonda) Smith, Sherrill, IA and Andrew (Abby) Smith, Sherrill, IA; 31 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren; his sister, Neoma Meyer, Dubuque, IA; a brother-in-law, David (Diane) Schroeder, Dyersville, IA; and a sister-in-law, Betty Schroeder, Dubuque, IA.

Norb was preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Bill Smith and Clarence (Mae) Smith; a brother-in-law, Emmett Meyer; and his in-laws, Yvonne (Gerald) Nauman and Bob Schroeder.

Norb’s family would like to thank the volunteers from the Sherrill Fire Department for their help and support.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Norb’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Norb Smith Family.

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

Doris L. Brandel

Doris L. Brandel, age 85, of Dyersville, passed away at 4:32 a.m., on Monday, February 12, 2024, at MercyOne Dyersville Medical Center. 

To honor Doris’ life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Monday, February 19, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue.  Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday at the church.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Doris was born on September 1, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of John and Lena (Schultz) Meyer.  

Doris graduated from St. Joseph Academy in Dubuque.  Not long after that she married the love of her life, Ronald Brandel, on December 28, 1957, at Sacred Heart Church.  They spent 64 fun filled years together before Ron passed away on July 10, 2022.  She was an excellent wife and mother who also worked with the Dubuque Community Schools.  She spent 31 years at Central School before she finally decided it was time to retire.  Doris loved her job there, and she and her co-workers always made sure their days were full of laughter. 

Doris was a wonderful hostess and loved to entertain.  She was an outstanding cook and beautiful floral designer, both of which come in very handy when having family and friends over for special occasions.  Doris also had a very thrifty side and enjoyed going to garage sales and thrift stores looking for treasures.  In her younger days, she and Ron spent countless hours at their cottage on Esmann Island.  Her faith was also an important part of her life, and she was a long time member of Sacred Heart Church.  Her family meant the world to Doris and she made sure each and every person knew how special they were.  The world was a better place because Doris was in it.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Doris’ memory include: her children, Beth (Robert) Schmerbach, Dyersville, IA, Lynne (Patrick) Einarsen, Dubuque, IA and Chris Brandel, Wauwatosa, WI; 5 grandchildren, Jeffrey (Alysia) Schmerbach, Ellen (Michael) Hirsch, AnnaRose Einarsen, Olivia Einarsen and Max Einarsen; and 6 great-great grandchildren, Jacobe (Gabrielle), Lukes, Isabella, Joseph, John and Natalie.

Doris was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ronald Brandel; a son, John Charles Brandel in infancy; a great-grandson, Derek Hirsch; a great-granddaughter, Audrey Hirsch; and her siblings, Merlin (Bonnie) Meyer, Darlene (Red) Spoerl, Jeanette Billmeyer and Marian Meyer.

Doris’ family would like to thank the wonderful people at MercyOne Dyersville for their exceptional care and Ellen Kennedy Assisted Living Center for taking wonderful care of Doris over the last 1 ½ years, we cannot thank all of you enough.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Doris’ memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Doris Brandel Family.

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

Racheal Bartle

Racheal Bartle, 67, of Dubuque, passed away on February 13, 2024 at home surrounded by loved ones.

In keeping with her wishes, private family services were held with a public celebration of life to be held on March 9, 2024, from 1:00-6:00 at the Oxus Grotto, 3011 Autumn Dr, Dubuque, IA 52002. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery.

Racheal was born on March 31, 1956, to Emil and AnnaMae (Jackson) Otting in Dubuque, Iowa.

She was a cook at Ennoble Manor, Dubuque Senior Highschool, and Area Residential Care. 

Racheal was an avid antique glass collector. She also loved teddy bears.

Family brought great joy to Racheal and she loved spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Racheal is survived by her children, Curt (Sherry) Saunders of Dubuque, and Laura (Jay) Reding of Dubuque; fiancé, James Lorence of Dubuque; grandchildren, Heather (Kevin) Sheahan of MO, Mitch Haufe of Dubuque, Devon (Ieisha) Woodard of Dubuque, Dayjanae (Tim) Bertucci of Asbury, Kietra McCullough of Dubuque, Ahliyah Saunders of Longview TX, Tea Saunders-McCullough of Dubuque, Curtavion Saunders of Longview TX, Akayja (Lucas) Nelson of Dubuque, Charissma Cruz of Dubuque, Skylynn (Seth) Johnson of Clovis NM, Douglas Saunders of Cedar Rapids IA, Curt Saunders Jr. of Dubuque, Laila Saunders of Dubuque, and Makayla Cooper of Asbury. She is also survived by 23 great-grandchildren. Racheal is also survived by her siblings, Elizabeth Otting, Emil Otting, Rosemary Otting, Phillip Otting, Grace Brade, Helen Mitchley, and Christine Light.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Marsha Saunders; Harry Saunders, and William Bartle; siblings, Mary Weber, Sylvester “Fess” Otting, Margaret Maize, and Raymond Otting

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to the funeral home in care of the Racheal Bartle family.

Racheal’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Cao for the wonderful care and compassion given to Racheal.

Chad R. Hansen

Chad R. Hansen, 45, of Dubuque, died Sunday, February 11, 2024.  Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon, Friday February 16, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road with family sharing at 11:30 a.m.  The funeral service will follow at noon.  Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Chad was born March 3, 1978 in Dubuque, Iowa.  He was easy-going, had a big heart and was always there to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. His infectious personality and sense of humor brought smiles to many. He could always make anyone laugh.

He loved the outdoors and enjoyed squirrel hunting, bow hunting, fishing, and golfing. He also enjoyed playing pool and cooking.

Although Chad did not attend a church regularly, his faith was very important to him.

He is survived by his father, Ronald Hansen; mother, Diann Habel; children, Daniel, Cody, Kurt, Chloe, and Noah; siblings, Cherisse and Angela Hansen, and Krista (Steve) Hansen-Shaffer.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, April Mae, and his grandparents.

Joyce A. Westhoff

Joyce A. Westhoff, 69 of Orlando, FL passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024, after an extended illness.

Visitation will be held from 4 – 7 PM on Friday, February 16, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, IA.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 AM prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville, Iowa with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Joyce was born December 3, 1954, in Rochester, PA, to Capt. Charles and Anna (Zarillo) Tarazano. Her father’s career in the U.S. Air Force gave Joyce the opportunity to grow and learn in Georgia, Illinois, Arizona, Guam, Michigan and Pennsylvania. Joyce graduated from Rochester High School, Rochester, PA in 1972. After high school, she studied at Penn State before joining the U.S. Navy. Joyce served as a Hospital Corpsman from 1974-1976. Joyce returned to school in 1982 and earned a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1984.

While stationed at Great Lakes Naval Hospital, IL, Joyce met and married Paul J. Westhoff. Joyce and Paul shared 48 years together, welcoming three children as they moved around the country while Paul continued to serve in the U.S. Navy. The family lived longest in Pensacola, Florida, and most recently in Orlando, Florida.

Joyce was a devoted wife and mother, insisting that we all be the best humans we could. Family time always included UNO, where her luck ensured a wealth of Draw 4s aimed at the rest of us. Joyce’s strength and infinite love will be deeply missed by her family. She is survived by her husband, Paul; her children: Alicia Reid of Brighton, MI, Dr. Erica (Dr. Ned Schoolman) Westhoff of Reno, NV and David (Jessica) Westhoff of Black Diamond, WA; her grandchildren: Darcy Reid, Gordon Reid, Anna Reid, Jack Schoolman, Alex Schoolman and Charles Westhoff; her sisters: Annette Costanza and Terri (Frank) Cottone; her brothers and sisters-in-law: Dennis (Ginny) Westhoff, Clare Westhoff, Steve (Marie) Westhoff, Lola Westhoff, Luann Schrock, Amy (Bruce) Goldsmith, Donna (Jeff) Thomas; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, parents-in-law, Ambrose and Isabel Westhoff; son-in-law, Mark Reid, and brother-in-law, Luke “Jeff” Westhoff.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Orlando Health Cancer Institute.

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.

Nancy M. Leslein

Nancy M. Leslein, 68, of Dubuque IA, died at home after a long battle with cancer on Monday February 12, 2024.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date with burial at Linwood Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Nancy was born on January 30, 1956, in Dubuque to Charles and Rudy (Oldner) Ansel.

She worked as a C.N.A in the Dubuque area for 30 years.

Nancy is survived by her son Craig (Joellle) Burns; and daughter Lisa (Dorian Sr.) Harrison; and three grandchildren, Sativa, Austin, and Dorian Jr.; siblings Sheila, Steve, and Kevin.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Mike, and Dennis.

The family would like to express a thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, a special niece Peggy Ohmert, and her Applewood family.

Tim A. Biedermann

Tim A. Biedermann, (68), of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on February 7th, 2024, after a courageous and heroic battle with Pancreatic Cancer.  For five and a half years Tim gave cancer the fight of its life. He battled with such ferocity, strength, and grace.  His unwavering determination and relentless effort allowed him to defy all odds on his journey to slay the Dragon.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 17th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. with Dr. Steve Garner officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Dubuque Memorial Gardens.  Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Born on November 20th, 1955, in Dubuque, Iowa.  The son of Lyle “Ike” Biedermann and JoAnn Biedermann (Meyer).  Tim or as many knew him, Biedz, grew up on the north end. He went on to purchase his childhood home so that he could raise his own family there. It was known from a young age, that he was a kind and gentle soul.  It wasn’t out of character to find him walking a holy sister to church nor was it out of the ordinary for him to be seen shoveling neighbors’ sidewalks or cutting their lawn.  Man did he love his lawn.

Tim’s greatest accomplishment was being a dad, and an amazing one at that. Every kid wanted him as a father.  The love and devotion he showed his children was unparalleled. Tara, Laura, Kevin and Joseph surely hit the jackpot however, the neighborhood kids did as well. Tim, Timbo, Mr. Tim or whatever you were fortunate enough to call him was a blessing. He included everyone, excluded no one, and led by example in all aspects. He taught us to listen, show respect, take care of your siblings; possess integrity and above all else, remain humble and kind.

If you recall the fort in the attack, squirt guns, tether ball, the sandbox, roller-skating, softball games, football at the field, tennis at Eagle Point, water balloon fights out the bed of his truck, playing long after the streetlights came on, catching lightening bugs, dodging bats…actual north end bats.  Camping on the front lawn, canoe trips…so many canoe trips. Wackey Waters, Noah’s Ark, the Maquoketa drive-in, hiking the bluff, sleigh riding at Mathius, picnics, Swiss Valley Cheese, OJ out of a carton, licorice, atomic fire balls, lemon heads, Halloween, skiing, numerous visits to the cemetery learning to drive, fishing, frequent trips to the DQ on behalf of dads “hidden” change jar.

As much as dad loved being a dad, he adored being a Papa even more.  He spent so much quality time with his 6 granddaughters and 2 grandsons, both named after Papa Tim.  Some of our fondest memories are coloring, trampolines, swimming, pumpkin patches, apple orchards, numerous trips to Disney World, and a Disney Cruise.

Tim is survived by his children: Tara (Terrance) Bowman, Laura (Nathan) Miller, Kevin Biedermann, Joseph (Ashley) Biedermann.  Siblings: Terry (Dee) Biedermann, Tracey (Rick) Wieser, Toni (Steve) Burkholder, Tina Cottier, Todd (Pamela) Biedermann. Grandkids: JoAnne, Zoey, and Emma Bowman, Alyvia, Aubrey and Nathan Miller, Logan and Thea Biedermann.

He was preceded in death by his Mother and Father; his brother Toby Biedermann, his sister Tammy Redmond, and his guardian angels David and Evelyn Hickey.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mark Truty and Dr. Engelman who reset the clock.  Our family would also like to thank Grand River Medical Group, Medical Associates and MercyOne Dubuque hospital staff for all the amazing care.

We will forever be looking for his truck in the driveway, hoping to find him sitting on the couch taking one of his many powernaps.  If the love we had for this man could have saved him, he would have lived for an eternity.

In lieu of flowers, a fund has been established to procure a memorial at Bergfeld Pond, where our family will continue to support the fight against pancreatic cancer and walk with the Michael W. Oglesby foundation yearly.

Sandra J. Williams

Sandra Jean Williams, 78, of Davenport, died Monday, February 12, 2024, at the Genesis Medical Center in Davenport.

The Funeral Service for Sandra will be 1:00 pm Monday, February 19, 2024, at Mount Calvary Cemetery with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating.

Sandra was born August 1, 1945, in Portland, OR, the daughter of Howard and Lucille Hunt Williams.  She married Thomas Maas and they had one daughter.  They later divorced.

Survivors include one daughter, Sherry (Ron) Lohneis of Dubuque, three grandsons, Travis (Amber) Lohneis, Ethan (Janna Johnson) Lohneis, Austin (Darian) Lohneis; six great-grandchildren, Jordan, Carson, Kinsley, Blair, Brayden, and Chase; one sister, Diane Meskimen of Guttenberg.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Phillip Williams; and one granddaughter, Felicia Lohneis.

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

Condolences sent to the family by visiting Sandra’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Steven S. Sprague

Steven Samuel Sprague, 53, of Dubuque, IA, finished his final race on February 11, 2024.  He crossed the finish line proudly, receiving his gold medal in Heaven, to be held in Gods arms and be with “Mudder” and Les forever.  His brother Randy along with his best friends and buddies Brewster boy, Bruno, and Panda were by his side.  And, yes of course his camera too.

Visitation will be on February 18, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA. A Celebration of Steven’s life will begin at 3:00 p.m. with Deacon David Roth Officiating.  A private burial will be held in Mt. Calvary cemetery at a later date.

Steven was born October 16, 1970, the youngest child and son of Leslie and Gloria (Entringer) Sprague.  Steve was born with many challenges, special needs, and intellectual disabilities.  Later in life he faced each one head on and did not let any of them stop him.

Steven received special education at Audubon, Eisenhower, and Hempstead High School, graduating in 1992.  He was proud to wear his cap and gown and to receive his diploma.

He attended vocational training programs here in Dubuque at Goodwill, Area Residential Care, and Hills and Dales.  He met many great people during those years and received so much love and care.  Somehow or another he left a memory for each person he met to remember him.

Steven finally slowed things down and “retired” but he did not stop by any means and spent the rest of his days having the time of his life attending Cozy Corners doing the things he liked best. Dancing, singing and of course taking pictures.  Never was there a day he did not wear a smile at Cozy Corners.  Thank you, Bob, Mariko and Staff.  You all are simply the best.

For many years, Steven was a Special Olympian, participating in many different events, bike racing, bowling, weightlifting, baseball, swimming, and skiing in the winter.  He was proud of the numerous medals and ribbons he worked so hard for and won.

Those left with great memories to hold in their hearts forever are his brothers Randy Sprague of Dubuque, IA, Ronald (Monika Stefan) Burke of Deerfield, IL, sisters Julie Burke and Laura Burke of Chicago, IL.  Steven is also survived by four other siblings Connie, Barb, Terry, and Gary.  Many nieces and nephews, great nieces, and nephews, and one great-great nephew and another one on the way.

Steven was proceeded in death by his parents Leslie “Les” and Gloria Sprague, his maternal and paternal grandparents, a brother-in-law, and a great niece.

To Peggy O’Neill, there are not enough words to express the thankfulness for the love and care you gave Steven over the past 10 years.  I could never have done this without you.

Also, a special thank you to the entire staff at Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jennifer, Ryan, and Kevin, your loving care made this difficult time easier to bare.

The family request no flowers. A Steven Samuel Sprague memorial fund will be established.

Roger L. Young

Roger Lynn Young, 73, of Delhi, died Sunday, February 11, 2024, surrounded by his family at the Good Neighbor Home in Manchester.

A celebration of Roger’s life will be held at a later date.

Roger was born November 21, 1950, in Manchester, IA, the son of Robert and Marian L Salow Young. On May 12, 1972, he married Lana K. Gibbs in Galena, IL.

He was a 1969 graduate of Maquoketa Valley High School in Earlville, Iowa.

While spending years in manufacturing, his accident allowed him to fully enjoy his passions. An avid lifelong fisherman, he found immense joy in sharing the serenity of fishing with his cherished grandkids. The quiet hours spent tinkering in his garage were a testament to his passion for creating and fixing. A devoted NASCAR enthusiast, the thrill of the race brought a sparkle to his eyes. He loved watching and listening to Hawkeye sports, along with enjoying the wildlife visiting his patio every day. His generosity knew no bounds, as evidenced by the trophy fish he donated to the Bailey Ford Conservation Center in Manchester.

Survivors include his wife. Lana; four children, son, Lance Young of Manchester, IA, son, Philip (Cassie) Young, of Yukon, OK, and their children, Samantha Young, Danielle Young, and Zachariah Young, daughter, Tanya Geer of Waterloo, IA, and her children, William Geer, Benjamin Geer, and Calvin Nosbisch, and daughter, Tara Young of North Liberty, IA; one brother, Terry (Patricia) Young of Earlville, IA; one sister, Cheryl Meader of Sun City, FL; and brothers- and sisters-in-law, Terry Gibbs, Gary Gibbs, Diane Welte, Kent Gibbs, and Laurie Becker.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one sister, Bonnie Rodriguez, and two sisters-in-law, Beverly Skaja and Deborah Morehouse.

The family thanks the doctors, nurses, and staff at Manchester Regional Medical Center, Care Initiatives Hospice, and the Good Neighbor Home for their help during this time.

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 Roger’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kathleen M. Mundell

Kathleen M. “Kathy” Mundell, age 72, of Gratiot, WI, formerly of Viola, MN, completed her earthly journey on February 6, 2024, at MercyOne Hospital in Dubuque, IA, while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Kathy’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held this summer back home in Minnesota with details to be announced at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Kathy’s family.

Kathy was born on March 6, 1951, in Winona, MN, a daughter to William and Rose (Kaiser) Sholes.  She was blessed to spend the majority of her life in Viola, Minnesota surrounded by family and friends until three years ago when she and Jon moved to Wisconsin to be closer to their daughter after some health issues arose.  Kathy and Jon were united in marriage on July 28, 1973, and were blessed with over 49 years together.  In their early years together, Jon and Kathy enjoyed traveling the U.S. on their motorcycle whenever possible and creating countless memories together.  Kathy was primarily a housewife who loved and adored her family, but over the years did step into the working world from time to time delivering the Star Tribune and Post Bulletin as a rural route carrier.  She also worked as a home care aid with Bear Creek Services and volunteered at Mayo Clinic as well.  Kathy was also a proud Gopher Gal with her friends in Viola, MN.

In her free-time, Kathy always enjoyed a little gardening and sewing at home when time allowed and if her Minnesota Vikings were playing, you could be sure to find her rooting on her favorite team.  She also found joy in checking out the latest finds at the flea market and antique shops as she discovered them.  A little retail therapy was also an acceptable way to spend the afternoon and trying her luck on the slots was a good way to round out the day.  Kathy loved spending time with her family the most though, especially if the grandkids were involved.  Her physical presence will surely be missed in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her and we hope to find peace and healing in time through the abundance of wonderful memories which she leaves behind.  Thank you, Kathy, for continually reminding us that love, family, and friends are truly the most valuable things in this life and may the Lord bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Kathy include,

her four children,
Scott (Maria) Styba, Fort Walton Beach, FL,
Jon (Amy) Mundell, Jr., Louisville, KY,
Jami (John) Boss, Gratiot, WI,
and Jesse (Maiko) Mundell, Syracuse, UT;

her nine grandchildren,
Anthony (Alyssa) Styba,
Seth Styba,
Jon Mundell, III,
Josephine Mundell,
Jane Mundell,
June Boss,
Jett Boss,
Skyler Mundell,
and Lance Mundell;

her two brothers,
David (Linda) Sholes, Utica, MN,
and Larrry (Cindy) Sholes, Utica, MN;

many beloved nieces and nephews;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Kathy was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jon A. Mundell, Sr.; her ex-husband, Bill Styba; and her sister, Nancy Anderson.

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

Debra L. Morgan

Debra Lynn Morgan, 67, of Dubuque, died Friday, February 9, 2024, at her home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 12:00 pm until 1:00 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Debra will be at 1:00 pm on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Pastor Mark Smith officiating. Burial will be in Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA.

Debra was born on July 24, 1956, in Vallejo, CA, the daughter of Walter and Carol (Thorsted) Hooper. On November 8, 1980, she married George Morgan III in Anaheim, CA. He preceded her in death on May 31, 2008.

Debra worked as an accountant for Tavaglione Construction & Development Inc. in Riverside, CA.  She enjoyed time in her greenhouse in California. She was very passionate about Donate Life.

Survivors include her mother, Carol (Walter) Hooper; her sister, Gloria Schleicher of Dubuque; three nieces, Sandra (Matt) Wienen, Kelly (Jeremy) Hall, and Pamela Hooper; and one great-niece and three great-nephews.

Debra was preceded in death by her father, Walter, and one brother, Raymond Hooper.

A special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care and support.

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