Obituaries Archive

Norman T. Duve

Norman Thomas Duve, 85, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Facility after complications following a surgery.

Norm was born on May 12, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Beatrice Loeffelholz Duve Studier and Engelbert Duve. He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School. On May 26th, 1962, Norm Duve and Rita Koenig were united in marriage at St. Anthony’s Church in Dubuque. They were blessed with four children, Cherie, Norm, Jeff, and Lara. 

Norm was a charismatic man who loved his family. He enjoyed outdoor activities like golfing, bike riding, and skiing. Norm took many road trips out west, frequently visiting the Badlands and Yellowstone National Park. He was an avid reader and was known to recite long excerpts from his favorite books and movies. Norm was a lifelong Chicago Bears fan and was a wealth of sports history knowledge. He enjoyed collecting antiques and made many friends at local auctions. Out of his various hobbies, though, he most enjoyed cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. 

Norm is survived by his children, Cherie Duve of Evanston, IL., Norm Duve (Sandy Morton) of Mesa, AZ., Jeff (Jeana) Duve of Dubuque, IA., and Lara (Loren) LeGrand of Dubuque, IA; seven grandchildren, Jessica (Dustin) Stender, Conor McCaffery, Lyndsey (Tony) Pfohl, Luc LeGrand, Emily (Matt) Hannon, Nicholas Duve, and Sam Duve; four great-grandchildren, Genevieve and Blaise Stender and Fischer and Beckett Pfohl. He is also survived by his brother Harvey (Diane) Duve and his sister Theresa (Ron) Bass along with many nieces and nephews. 

Norm was preceded in death by his wife, Rita; his parents, Beatrice Loeffelholz Duve Studier and Engelbert Duve; stepfather, Ernie Studier; siblings, Ann Duve Gilbertson, Elizabeth Duve Moore, Susan Duve Gonen, David (Bud) Duve, Joseph Duve, and Johnny Duve.

A celebration of Norm’s life will be held this summer. 

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

Shirley M. Moody

Shirley M. Moody, born December 22, 1935, in Keystone Iowa, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 17, 2023, with her beloved husband, Don, at her side at the Luther Manor Grand Meadows in Asbury.

Visitation for friends will be Friday, April 5th, 2024, from 4 pm until 7 pm, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory.

A private, family funeral service for Shirley will be Saturday, April 6th, 2024, at the Linwood Cemetery Chapel with Rick Mihm officiating. Graveside services will immediately follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Don and Shirley married on June 5, 1960, in Vinton, Iowa, but soon moved to Dubuque, where they lived for more than 60 years.  Here, they raised their two sons, Kurt and Jeff.

Shirley was the second oldest of 5 daughters of Clarence and Agnes (Bosler) Steinford. She graduated from Van Horne High School in May of 1954 and went on to receive her degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from the University of Iowa in 1958. She loved working with children and helped many during her career as a speech pathologist in the public schools. She was an active member in the community and a staunch supporter of women’s rights and education.  She was involved in the Sunshine Circle for over 48 years, served as a Mount Pleasant Home board member, and supported the women in education organization, P.E.O.

Shirley was always a lover of sports, beginning with playing high school basketball, and continued as a “dyed in the wool” Hawkeye fan forever. She loved to travel and had visited England, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, France and Spain. Her trips with her family and grandchildren to Costa Rica, Mexico, Italy and Greece will be fondly remembered. Shirley loved her daily walks for many years with her friends, reading, playing bridge, and various types of knitting, crocheting, and cross stitch.

Shirley’s sage advice to her grandchildren came in the shape of loving phone calls and texts, frequent visits and the lessons in how to make her beloved peanut butter balls. Her years of words of wisdom will be so missed.

Survivors include her husband, Donald; one son, Jeffrey (Cheryl Marcus) Moody of Colorado Springs, CO; three grandchildren, Will, Sarah, and Rachel; one sister, Kathy Miller of Fort Myers, FL; two brothers-in-law, Larry Moody, and Wayne Fuller; two sisters-in-law, Marcia Hite and Judy Moody; and many nieces and nephews

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, Kurt, one niece, Carol Wilson, one nephew, Doug Fuller Jr., three sisters, Marilyn Wilson, Sharon Juergens, and Evelyn Fuller, one sister-in-law, Karen Moody, and four brothers-in-law, four brothers-in-law, Keith Moody, John Wilson, Lester Juergens, and David Hite.

Memorials may be given in Shirley’s honor to Sunshine Circle at Unity Point-Finley Hospital and the Dream Center.

The family would like to thank Dr. Kelley and Dr. Powers, and the care staff at Luther Manor Grand Meadows Butler unit and the Hospice of Dubuque staff.

Nancy L. Spensley

Nancy Lou Spensley passed away March 10, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was 82 years old.

According to her wishes a private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family.

Born on July 29, 1941, in Platteville, Wisconsin, Nancy was the daughter of John and Zella Spensley of Elk Grove, Wisconsin. Nancy was a fighter from the beginning. Born with dislocated hips, she wore a body cast and endured years of physical therapy. But this didn’t slow her down, and she was soon tagging along behind her father to help on the family dairy farm. She’d rather be out driving the tractor, rounding up the sows, or baling hay than helping with household chores. She even learned how to shoot a rifle—her marksmanship was something she was proud of. Her family moved to Darlington where she finished high school, but she always considered Belmont her alma mater.

After graduating from school, Nancy married and began a family while farming. Later, she and her family moved to Stoughton, Wisconsin, and purchased a tavern where she loved to play cards and dance. Nancy spent a number of years in Berthoud, Colorado, working for Hewlett Packard before moving back to Wisconsin and eventually to Dubuque, Iowa.

No matter where she lived, her farm roots were apparent in her love for working the soil. She didn’t have fields of crops, but she always had as big a garden as space would allow. Over the years, she traded the rows of vegetables grown to feed her family for a paradise of flowers and the hummingbirds that they attracted. Nancy was creative and could often be found sewing and making art. She was never afraid to take on a construction project around the house and often said she built things like an old farmer: not pretty, but it would last. She was a proud mother and grandmother and loved her family very much, taking every opportunity to gather everyone around the dining table at holidays.

Nancy is survived by her children, Tami (Dan) Bowser—Hollandale, WI, Tina (Gene)Wojtalewicz—Colorado Springs, CO, Robert (Katy) Wethal—Dubuque, IA; her grandchildren, Dillon (Macy), Tayler, Brooke Bowser; Christopher (Teresa), Jessica, Ashley Wojtalewicz; Grace, Alexandra, Julien Wethal; great-grandchild Aiden Wojtalewicz; and sisters, Karen Smith—Gays Mills, WI and Sally (Tom) Fosler—Oregon, WI.

She was preceded in death by her parents John and Zella Spensley; daughter, Carla Ruth Benson, and her brother, Roger Spensley.

Nancy, we will miss your laughter, cheeky humor, and abundance of love. We are grateful you have now found peace.

The family would like to thank Dr. Runde, Dr. Ram, All of the caregivers at Stonehill Care Center, and Hospice of Dubuque.

For online condolences please visit www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Tammie L. Baker

Tammie L. Baker, age 61, of Cedar Rapids, IA, formerly of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on March 25, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Cedar Rapids, after a sudden illness.  In Tammie’s final moments, she was surrounded by the love of her family and best friend.  To honor Tammie, a Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at Grace Point Church, 3100 Windsor Avenue in Dubuque.  A Memorial Service including time for sharing will be held at 1:30 p.m. with Pastor Jeffrey Durham officiating.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Tammie’s family.

Tammie was born on March 20, 1963, in Dubuque, IA, to Daniel R. and Sharon L. (Boelk) Baker.  She embraced life from an early age and was determined to give back more than she took throughout her 61 years among us.  Tammie earned her Bachelors Degree in Special Education and spent many years as a teacher who truly loved her students and was continually determined to be a positive force in their lives.  Tammie also spent time in retail where she made countless friends along the way, both as co-workers and customers alike.  To meet Tammie was to quickly be welcomed into her inner circle and she embraced the opportunity to be the bright light in someone’s day.

In her free-time, Tammie enjoyed gardening and when her best friend Dennis was by her side, even the obnoxious weeds attempting to ruin the afternoon didn’t stand a chance of gaining any ground on her joy.  Tammie was also well known for her ability to shower her family and friends with an abundance of Dollar Store and Goodwill trinkets.  She always found the perfect gift for the right person and being true to her nature, giving was always better than receiving.  She was also a proud and faithful member of the Cedar Rapids Gratitude Chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous.  She possessed a true passion for this ministry and watched it change countless lives along the way.  But truth be told, spending time with her children and grandchildren was where Tammie found her greatest joy in life.  Her love was limitless, her time was generous, and thankfully the memories she leaves behind are priceless.  We are going to miss Tammie’s love and light shining brightly within the world around us moving forward, but we know and trust that somewhere in this pain the Lord is working all things for good for those who love Him.  We were blessed to have Tammie in our lives and will honor her by telling her story and by emulating her loving and giving spirit.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Tammie include,

her three children,
Emily (Ken) Valentine, Dubuque, IA,
Daniel Moore, Lakewood, Co,
and Benjamin Moore Cedar Rapids, IA;

her five adored grandchildren,
Avarie Valentine, Wyatt Moore, Haylie Valentine, Zane McCaffery, and Nolan Valentine;

her parents,
Dan and Sharon Baker, Dubuque, IA;

her siblings,
Jeff (Diane) Baker, Austin, MN,
and Cindy (John) Hanson, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

In lieu of flowers, a Tammie L. Baker memorial fund has been established which will be distributed to the Cedar Rapids Gratitude Chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous.  Please make checks payable to Emily Valentine.

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

Rosalie M. Loes

Rosalie M. Loes, 84, of Key West, IA, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at home, surrounded by her family.

Due to family travel commitments, the visitation and funeral services are being delayed until all next of kin can arrive.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 A/M, on Saturday, APRIL 6, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Church, in Key West.  Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Family and friends may call from 3 PM – 7 PM, on Friday, APRIL 5, 2024, at the Miller Funeral Home, 1185 Hwy. 35 N, in East Dubuque, where the parish prayer service will be held at 2:30 PM. Visitation will also be held from 9 AM – 10:15 AM, on Saturday, at the church.

Rosalie was born on May 14, 1939, in Maquoketa, IA, the daughter of Earl and Dorothy (Borgard) Staggs.  She was a graduate of Dubuque Senior High School, the Class of 1957.  Rosalie was united in marriage to John J. “Jack” Loes on May 2, 1959, at St. Patrick’s Church, in Dubuque.

Rosalie operated the Brownstone Art Gallery from 1985 – 1999.  She also loved dancing, playing cards, and enjoyed the winter’s in Arizona. She also had a great love for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Surviving are her husband, John “Jack”; five children, Julie (Dale) Melssen, of Buckeye, AZ, Karen (Rick) Schilling, of Zwingle, IA, David (Laura) Loes, of Island Lake, IL, Steven (Kelli) Loes, of Asbury, IA, and Ann (Matt) Graney, of Lancaster, WI; ten grandchildren, Josh (Christine) Loes, Matt Loes, Jenna (Nick) Rettenberger, Stefan (Hillary) Loes, Kali Schilling, Alexi (Brendan) Mellady, Addison (Seamus) Taylor, Quinn Melssen, Cooper Graney, and Taye Graney; five great-grandchildren; in-laws, Paul (Janice) Loes, Marian Newman; nieces and nephews.

Rosalie was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Dorothy; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Francis and Loretta Loes; siblings, Doug (Juanita) Staggs, Gloria (Eugene) Stierman, Sharon (Mike) Callahan, Earline (James) Seeberger; in-laws, Gerry Newman, Joan (Carl) Heitz, Jane Reilly.

The family request no flowers.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion shown to Rosalie during her final days after returning from Arizona.

Arthur Landen

Arthur “Art” Landen, at age 93 and a treasured member of a large loving family, was brought home to his heavenly Father on January 31, 2024.

Art graduated from North Park Academy Chicago in 1946. He continued his education at Northwestern University, earning a Bachelor of Science in accounting. He later received his CPA certification in 1952. He began his career at Arthur Anderson Accounting Firm and later transferred his talents to John M Smyth Co. and JMS Homemakers. Art finally ended his furniture adventures by closing Polk Brothers retail stores in the Chicagoland area. Deciding to leave the city life behind, Art and Su Landen (his wife) moved to Galena, IL, to create “Poopsies,” a first-of-its-kind retail shop. They decided to retire and sold the thriving business in 2010. Art was a man who embraced life, family, and friends. While missing his laugh and smile, his family will forever hold his love and kindness in their hearts.

Art’s life will be celebrated on April 6, 2024, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM at the Luther Manor Club House at 5300 Grand Meadow Drive, Asbury, IA. Handicap parking is available.

Instead of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Joseph the Worker Church, 2001 St Joseph Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, or St. Croix Hospice, 101 Elkader St, Strawberry Point, IA 52076.

Art’s family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the teams at Luther Manor and St. Croix Hospice. Your compassion and care have indeed been a blessing.

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

Donald J. Banfield

Donald J. “Red” Banfield, 88, of Dubuque, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at his home with his wife by his side.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at Cathedral of St. Raphael.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Donald will be at 10:30 am on Thursday, March 28, 2024, at Cathedral of St. Raphael with Father Dennis Quint as the Celebrant. Burial will be at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery in Cuba City, Wisconsin. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #104.

Red was born May 27, 1935, in Cuba City, WI, the son of Andrew and Margaret (Swift) Banfield. He was united in marriage to Jayne M. Kaiser at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Sinsinawa, WI.

Red was an entrepreneur where he owned and operated Banfield Brothers Trucking, Mac Tools, and ServiceMaster by Banfield. Red was a member of the Dubuque Golf and Country Club. He spent many hours meticulously manicuring his LAWN. He also enjoyed spending time playing poker with friends, old and new. Red also enjoyed traveling to Switzerland, many European countries, and throughout the United States with his family and close friends.

Survivors include his loving wife of 66 years, Jayne of Dubuque; three children, Klint (Theresa) Banfield of Dubuque; Jason Banfield of Seymour, MO; Nadine (Mike) DeBoer of Tampa, FL; two grandchildren, Jesse Banfield and Taylor Banfield; one brother, Mike Banfield of Dubuque; two sisters, Sandra Miller of Rapid City, SD; Mary Jo (Keith) Droessler of Cuba City, WI; his three godchildren, Liz Murphy, Lisa Banfield Bubel, and Melissa Banfield; special longtime family/employees, Kelly and Kay Kass and the entire ServiceMaster crew; his faithful companion, Shadow; and many close friends that he loved like his own children and grandchildren.

Besides his parents and parents-in-law, Red was preceded in death by his brother, Tom; sisters-in-law, Joyce Banfield, Genevieve (Merlin) Roling, and Dorothy Kaiser; two nephews, Shane Droessler and Tyler Runde; and a good friend that he loved like a son, Warren Henschel.

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 Red’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Karla Steger

Karla Steger, 82, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, March 25, 2024.

Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the 12:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, March 27, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Key West, 10204 Key West Drive. Msgr. Thomas Toale will officiate. Interment will be in the Resurrection Garden Mausoleum, Mount Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Rd., Dubuque.

Karla was born February 23, 1942 in Dyersville, the daughter of Elmer H. and Marcella (Wessels) Krapfl. She attended Nativity School, Visitation Academy, Loras College, Clarke College, and Cuyahoga Community College in Ohio. Karla was a telephone operator for Northwestern Bell until her marriage.

She married John Steger in 1962 at Church of the Nativity.  The couple moved to Iowa City while John attended dental school, and then to Cleveland, OH after his graduation. John and Karla returned to Dubuque, where John established his practice,  Dubuque Dental Associates, along with Dr. Heyo Tjarks.  Karla loved music, singing in many plays at school and church choirs. She also played the piano, banjo, and accordion.

Karla was an avid collector of dolls, family memorabilia, and Christmas décor. She was a devoted wife, aunt, and friend, and always took care of everyone. Karla’s St. Bernard and Newfoundland dogs were very special to her.

Karla is survived by her husband, John Steger, D.D.S., of Dubuque; her brother,  Fred (Sharon) Krapfl, of Dubuque; her nieces, Jean Sawvel, Cindy (Doug Stonebreaker) Stratton, Kathy (Andy) Tetmeyer, Sue (Doug) Tonn, and Julie (Kwang) Kim; and many great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Barb Krapfl; and her nephew, Larry Stratton.

Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West. 

Connie L. Goepfert

Connie Lee (Eganhouse) Goepfert, 77, of Wilton, IA, and formerly of Bellevue, IA, was ushered into the arms of Jesus on March 23, 2024, while surrounded by those she held dearest here on Earth.

Connie was the oldest by two minutes of a set of twins born on June 22, 1946, in Bellevue, IA, to Mona (Clark) and John Eganhouse. She proudly identified as being a twin her entire life. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Bellevue, but throughout her life she was a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran in Bellevue, Salem Lutheran in Andrew, IA, and Faith United in Maquoketa, IA. She was educated in Bellevue schools graduating from Bellevue High School in 1964.

On July 16, 1966, she married Lorin Arthur Goepfert at St. John’s Lutheran church in Bellevue. Together, they dairy farmed on the family farm in rural Bellevue. They were blessed with one daughter, Tina. While a town girl by birth, she nonetheless took on the role of farmwife with diligence and dedication and was Lorin’s partner in business as well as life. From milking the cows to driving the tractor to fixing fence to cooking farm meals for the many hired teenagers and neighbors who crossed her threshold, she was by his side for every hill and valley of farm life. When asked what she was good at, she would say, “working hard.” After Lorin’s death on April 9, 2006, she relocated to Wilton, IA, where she enjoyed many happy years attending her grandchildren’s concerts, plays and swim meets. In August 2023, following a turn in her health, she moved into the “barndominium” on Brian and Tina’s property.

Connie was known both on her Bellevue farm and her home in Wilton for her beautiful flower beds and her hybrid day lilies, especially. In addition, she enjoyed sewing, crafting projects, riding her bike to the ice cream shop and, especially, collecting and trying new recipes from her many cookbooks and magazines. Many a neighbor, friend and family member enjoyed a good meal and even better conversation around her kitchen table. Upon moving to Wilton, she became fond of hunting for treasures at thrift stores and the city-wide garage sales. She was a huge animal lover who nurtured many an abandoned kitten, including her most recent furry companion, Roxy the cat. She strongly believed everything was better with a little sparkle or glitter on it. She enjoyed dancing, including country two-stepping with Lorin. Above all, she cherished her time spent with her family, especially her daughter and beloved grandchildren, Max and Victoria. Her Christian faith was a rock and guiding force in her life, and she faced her final days knowing she was going to her true “home” in heaven with Lorin and many other loved ones.

She is survived by one daughter, Tina (Brian) Roth of Wilton, Iowa. Two grandchildren, Maxwell (Michiko Erikson) Roth of Maple Grove, MN, and Victoria (Marcus Cole) Roth of Minneapolis, MN. Also mourning her death are a sister, Patti (Jim) Eggers of Bellevue, IA; and a sister-in-law, Carol DeWulf of Hiawatha, IA; a maternal aunt, Norma Borman, of La Motte, IA; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Lorin, in 2006. Also preceding her in death are her mother, Mona (Clark) Niemann; her twin sister Bonnie Gilbert; a sister, Jeanne Eganhouse; nieces, Dawn, Michelle and Rachelle and nephews, Jason and Gene; sisters-in-law, Judy Wulf and Armilla Goepfert and brothers-in-law, Arnold Wulf and Darrell DeWulf.

Connie was laid to rest in St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Bellevue following a private family service. Family, friends and neighbors may offer their condolences and remembrances of Connie at a Celebration of Life reception from 4 to 8 p.m. on April 19, 2024 at The Bellevue State Park Lodge. A prayer service and sharing of memories will begin at 6 p.m. A dinner will be provided, but people are encouraged to bring a dish to share. We all know how she loved a good potluck.

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

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

Donald M. Michel

Donald M. “Don” Michel, age 90, of Bellevue, IA, completed his earthly journey on March 22, 2024, at the Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Don’s life, a Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 105 E. Main Street, Springbrook, IA, with Rev. Robert Gross officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 10:00 – 10:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Sts. Peter &Paul Church Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the Bellevue American Legion.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Don’s family.

Don was born on October 12, 1933, on the century family farm south of Springbrook, IA, a son to Mathew and Julia (Kilburg) Michel.  Don honorably served his country with the U.S. Army and was a proud member of the Bellevue American Legion for over 40 years.  He devoted his time and talents in the Maintenace Department at John Deere Dubuque Works until eventually retiring in 1983.  In his free-time, Don was an outdoorsman through and through.  He enjoyed fishing and hunting of all kinds, especially deer, squirrel, rabbit and raccoon.  He also spent countless hours working on setting his traps waiting for the best racoon and mink skins of the season.  We are going to miss Don and the positive imprint his continually left on the world around him.  We are forever grateful for the lessons he always taught along the way as well.  Thank you, Don, for all that you have left behind for the generations to follow in your legacy and may the Lord keep you safely in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Don include,

his three children,
Macheal Marie Heidesch, Dubuque, IA,
John M. (Denise) Michel, Bellevue, IA,
and Richard J. Michel, Dubuque, IA;

his grandchildren,
Eric Heidesch, Chad Heidesch, Joshua (Sarah) Michel, Danielle (Nathan) Mohr, Manessa Michel, Mitchel Michel, Jenna (Eric) Smith, John Michel II, Daniel Michel, Austin (Natalie) Michel, and Kristin Michel;

his great-grandchildren,
Madelynne, Elaina, Michael and Olivia Michel, Evelyn and Ezra Cooper, Anjolie Mohr, Leanna and Wyatt Gaul, Mathias and Hendrix Michel, Pryor and Quinn Smith, and Archibald and Henry Michel;

his siblings,
Bernard “Bun” (Darlene) Michel, Bellevue, IA,
Helen Zeimet, Bellevue, IA,
Marian Kloft, Maquoketa, IA,
Bernadine Hartung, Preston, IA,
and Carma Frank, Lancaster, WI;

his ex-wife,
Rose Willey, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Daniel Mathew Michel; his daughter-in-law, Sandi Michel;  and his siblings, Dolores (Delbert) Heiar, Sr. Mary Mathew, Alvina (Eldon) Stillmunkes, Arlene (Orville) Hager, Alverda (Arnie) Heiar and Herman Michel; his brothers-in-law, Harold Zeimet, Doman Kloft, Joseph Hartung, and Lloyd Frank; his dear friend, Velma Holmes.

In lieu of flowers, a Donald M. Michel memorial fund has been established which will be distributed among his favorite charities.

Don’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Mill Valley Care Center and Hospice of Jackson County for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Alicia J. Dressler

Alicia J. Metz Dressler, age 38, of Patch Grove, WI, formerly of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on March 21, 2024, at the University of Wisconsin Madison Hospital after complications from cancer and brain surgery.  To honor Alicia’s life, her Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  Burial will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Alicia’s family.

Alicia was born on November 25, 1985, in Iowa City, IA, a daughter to Jim and Vickie (Weidenbacher) Metz.  As a newborn, Alicia had to fight her very first battle with cancer almost immediately upon entering this world.  Through the Lord’s grace, her leukemia was sent into remission, but only to await another battle at some undetermined time in her future.  Alicia, bound with a strong will and personality, which coupled perfectly with her kind and loving heart as well, never allowed her battles to define her life.  After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School, Alicia became a Surgical Technician and invested many years with Mercy Hospital in Dubuque before eventually making her way over to Wisconsin.  She continued to share her talents faithfully in Prairie Du Chein, and most recently moved to the Grant Regional Health Center in Lancaster after she had proudly moved into the Environment Services Department to add a little extra financial security to her yearly income.

Alicia’s love for animals was continually on display and came in a close second only to her love for others.  A dog person through and through, she never met a pet she couldn’t love unconditionally.  Alicia’s love for family and friends was clearly visible to all who knew and loved her.  The only thing better than visiting with friends while her favorite canine companion by her side was when she also had a freshly baited hook in her hands while relaxing on the water’s edge.  Alicia was truly a force of nature to be reckoned with and her determination surely helped her achieve so much in the too short 38 years we were blessed to have her walking among us.  It’s beyond comprehension and impossible to process the pain of losing such a wonderful soul so early in life.  Thankfully, the memories of Alicia will reside concretely within the hearts of all who were blessed to walk in her light and we know that she is now residing in absolute perfection, only waiting patiently for our arrival to once again see her beautiful smile looking directly back at us.  Thank you, Alicia, for always being true to yourself, leading by example, and knowing when to be firm and when to be gentle.  We will miss you more than words could ever depict accurately and will love you dearly until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Alicia include,

her husband,
Jeff Dressler, Patch Grove, WI;

her three step-children,
Haley Dressler, LaCrosse, WI,
Carter Fisher, Beetown, WI,
and Hunter Dressler, Beetown, WI;

her parents,
Jim and Vickie Metz, Dubuque, IA;

her brother,
Aaron (Tara) Metz, Dubuque, IA;

her niece and nephew,
Olivia Metz and Brady Metz, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Alicia was preceded in death by her brother, Eric Metz; and her grandparents, Ralph “Pete” (Delores) Metz and Albertus “Al” (Joyce) Weidenbacher.

Alicia’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the University of Wisconsin Madison for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Sr. Mary Jeanine Kuhn, PBVM

Sister Mary Jeanine Kuhn, PBVM, 86, died on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at the Sisters of the Presentation (Mount Loretto), 2360 Carter Road.

On Monday, March 25, friends may call from 3:30 – 7 p.m. at Sacred Heart Chapel, Sisters of the Presentation, where there will be a vigil service at 7 p.m. The funeral Mass will be at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26 at Sacred Heart Chapel. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Key West.

Sister Mary Jeanine, daughter of Sylvester and Elizabeth (Sullivan), was born Margaret Lee Kuhn on July 1, 1937, in Osage, Iowa.  She entered the Sisters of the Presentation from Osage, Iowa, on September 8, 1956, and professed her perpetual vows on August 22, 1964.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clarke College (now Clarke University) in Dubuque, Iowa, and a Master of Arts from both Loras College in Dubuque and Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Sister Jeanine served as an elementary teacher and principal in Catholic schools in Dubuque (St. Columbkille) and Farley, both in Iowa, and in St. Paul, Minnesota; in congregational leadership as president and councilor; in congregational formation ministry; as a pastoral minister in Charles City, Iowa; as administrator, spiritual and retreat director at American Martyrs Retreat House, Cedar Falls, Iowa; and at St. Stephen the Witness Catholic Student Center at the University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, guiding students on their spiritual journey. She celebrated her 60th Jubilee in 2016 and retired to Mount Loretto in 2017. Sister Jeanine enjoyed playing the piano, singing, playing cards and Scrabble, softball, basketball, horseback riding, hiking, driving, working with flowers, and providing environment in church.  She valued prayer and community service. Sister Jeanine reflected, “I am so grateful to all who supported me along the way with their love, joy and friendship. God gifted me with a call to follow in faith and has given me many blessings to serve in a variety of ministries.”

Surviving are her sisters, Kathryn Peterman and Betty (Ronald) Lovejoy, sisters-in-law, Kathye Kuhn and Cathy (Jim) Berry, nieces, nephews, and the Sisters of the Presentation with whom she shared her life for 67 years.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her sisters, Phyllis and husband Lincoln Drake, Joan and husband Frank Guest and her brothers, Rev. Richard Kuhn, Robert (Kathye) and James (Cathy).

The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Sisters of the Presentation, 2360 Carter Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or online at: www.dbqpbvms.org.

Ronald D. Hayes

Ronald D. Hayes, age 85, of Dubuque, passed away at 10:50 p.m., on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at home with his loving family.  To honor Ron’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m., on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at St. Patrick Church, 1425 Iowa Street.  Funeral services will be held immediately after visitation at 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday at St. Patrick Church, with Rev. Dennis J. Quint officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Ron’s family.

Ron was born on January 11, 1939, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Patrick C. and Marjorie (Schmitz) Hayes.

Ron attended Sacred Heart Grade School, Jefferson Middle School and Dubuque Senior High School.  He was united in marriage to his true love, Donna Priest, on April 29, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church.  In 1966, Ron and Donna joined St. Patrick’s Church and have been members ever since.  His faith was extremely important to him, and Ron had a special devotion to praying the Rosary.  He generously volunteered his time and talents for several years at St. Patrick’s Church, Stonehill Care Center, Mount St. Francis and Clare House.  Ron was employed at Sears for 30 years, starting in the automotive department and ending up in the service department.  After Sears closed, Ron went to work at  Medical Associates in their maintenance department and retired again after 10 years.  Ron had several hobbies, but his favorite was spending time in the garage working on his cars.  He restored several, and his grandson still has Ron’s prized 1939 Chevy.  He also liked to spend time watching old movies and listening to Buddy Holly.  Ron loved his family and spending time with the grandbabies brought him great joy!  They knew he always had a pocket full of Tootsie Rolls to share.  Ron regularly picked his granddaughters up from preschool when they were small and took them to Sunshine Restaurant for lunch, a memory that they will always treasure.  Ron had a generous nature and was always willing to help someone in need.  He had a special way of making people feel comfortable and everyone enjoyed his teasing personality.  Ron’s famous quote was, “If I don’t see you later, so what”, a tribute to his jokester side.  Ron was truly one of a kind and he will be greatly missed!

Those left to cherish Ron’s memory include

his loving wife,
Donna Hayes, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Connie Hendren, Dubuque, IA,
Patrick (Karol) Hayes, Dubuque, IA
and Gary Hayes, Sauk Centre, MN;

11 grandchildren,
Chansey (Alex) Dix, Justin Hayes, Jordan (fiancé Minnie) Hayes, Jeremy Hayes, Kayla (Cory) Gotherman, Emily Hayes, Alek Hayes, Austyn (Ashley) Hayes, Andrew Hayes, Avery (Hannah) Hayes and Arianna (Clayton) Foxx;

5 great-grandchildren;

his sister,
Kathy (Tom) Arensdorf, Eldridge, IA;

and many nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Ruth (Ralph) Auer, Patsy (Bud) Gatewood, Sandra (Mike) Wagner, Sheryl (Robert) Reinelt, Kenneth (Marilyn) Hayes; and a niece, Melissa Reinelt.

Ron’s family would like to thank the wonderful nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque, especially Jennifer, Stephanie and Melanie, for the outstanding care they have provided for Ron.

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

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

Myrtle K. Canfield

Myrtle Kathleen (Kay) Canfield, 96, of Dubuque, went home to be with her Lord on March 21, 2024.

Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 am, Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at Journey Church, 3939 Pennsylvania Ave., Dubuque, IA 52002. Funeral service will immediately follow at 11:00 am, with Rev. Terry Bemis officiating. Burial will be at Westlawn Cemetery in Omaha, Nebraska.

Kay was born on November 2, 1927, to Carman and Laura (Mack) Alder in Sarles, North Dakota. She grew up on the family farm along with 7 brothers and 1 sister in southern Manitoba. After high school, she moved to Fort Frances, Ontario, where she worked as a CNA for several years. Fort Frances is where she met her future husband, Eddie! Eddie and Kay were married at Crystal City, Manitoba on August 20, 1955. They enjoyed 50 years of marriage until Eddie’s death on September 18, 2005.

Kay resided in Omaha, NE from 1955-1997, then Kerrville, TX, from 1997-2005, and Ninette, Manitoba, from 2006-2023. She moved to live with family in Dubuque, IA on October 16, 2023. She resided at Luther Manor, Dubuque, from Feb. 22, 2024 until her death on March 21, 2024.

Kay was a daycare provider for several years. She was also a pre-school Sunday school teacher for many decades. Kay was a wonderful cook and homemaker with the gift of hospitality. She enjoyed having people in her home. Both Eddie and Kay were active in various church activities.

Kay is survived by her children, David (Linda) Canfield of Dubuque, IA, and Jim (Carol) Canfield of Euless, TX. Grandchildren, Jon (Kelsey) Canfield of Champlin, MN, Jillian Canfield of Fridley, MN, Joslyn Canfield of Champlin, MN Ryan Canfield of Euless, TX, Rebekah of Arlington, MA, Great Grandson Liam Canfield of Champlin, MN. She is also survived by one sister, five brothers, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brothers Garth Alder and Tom Alder. Sisters-in-law, Eileen Alder, Myrtle Alder, Esther Alder, Elsie Alder, Ardella Alder.

A Kay Canfield memorial fund has been established.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Elizabeth Zimmer

Elizabeth “Betty” Zimmer, 83, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully Friday, March 22, 2024, at the Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque surrounded by her family.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.  Additional visitation will be from 9:30 am until 10:30 am Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Betty will be 11:00 am Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Betty was born October 16, 1940, in Dubuque, the daughter of Leonard and Louise Stecher Stecklein. On May 16, 1964, she married Norman “Norm” Zimmer at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Dubuque.

She was a graduate of Immaculate Conception Academy.

Betty was an administrative assistant at Wahlert High School the year the school opened in 1959, where she continued to work for 32 years.

She was a member of Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Holy Rosary Society. She was always present with her infectious smile at family gatherings and grandchildren events.  She was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes. Her hands crafted warmth through crocheted blankets for both kids and grandkids. A master baker known for her apple pies, and crescent rolls, and often baked cookies with her grandkids. Her spirit found joy in traveling, leisurely walks, and playing games with her grandkids.

Survivors include her husband, Norm; three sons, Brian Zimmer of Round Lake Beach, IL, Jay (Pamela) Zimmer of Asbury, and Bob (Carol) Zimmer of Gurnee, IL; seven grandchildren, Molly (Mitch) Boge, Morgan (Dyllon) Phillips, Madisen (Dimitri) Humpal, Michael (Kirsten Davis) Zimmer, Krista Zimmer, Kayla Zimmer, and Kayden Zimmer; four great-grandchildren, Jude, Wyatt, Hallie, and Zoey; five siblings, Theresa Houselog of Milwaukee, WI, Len Stecklein of Milwaukee, WI, Mary (Jim) Smith of Columbus, MO, Denny (Nancy) Stecklein of Dubuque, Luann (Dan) Hillary of St. Catherine, IA; and one sister-in-law, June Stecklein of Dubuque.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Jerry Stecklein, one sister, Kathy (Morrie) Klocker, and one brother-in-law, Wayne Houselog.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the American Diabetes Association and the Stonehill Memory Unit.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Chris Stille, Dr. Scott Brock, Luther Manor, Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and support.

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