Obituaries Archive

Aria Kay Asbell

Aria Kay Asbell, infant daughter of Nick Asbell and Katelyn McIntyre, of Dubuque was born on August 7, 2025, at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital and gained her angel wings on August 26, 2025, at home surrounded by her family.

Friends and family may visit on Thursday, September 4, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. where a funeral service will begin at 4:30 p.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

Aria was so beautiful, brave and such a strong little girl. She was a night owl just like her daddy, mommy, sissy and brother. We enjoyed the time we had with her at home.

She is survived by her daddy and mommy, Nick and Katelyn; her siblings, Reagan Kipper and Elijah Asbell; her grandparents, Tim and Elissa Murphy, Richard and Christina Asbell, Sherry Cervantes, Randy McIntyre; her great-grandma Glenda Miller; her aunts and uncles, Natalie Murphy, Peyton Bastian, Ben Bastian, Christin (Chris Bossmann) Cervantes, Megan Cervantes, Shuree (Brian) Behr, Tyler Asbell, Michael Wooldridge, Patrick Asbell; her 3 pup pups at home Chase, Ella and Koda; along with several cousins.

Aria was preceded in death by her great-grandma Karol “Kay” Pline, great-grandpa Bruce Miller and aunt Sara Miller.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Leonard Funeral Home in c/o Aria Asbell.

The family would like to give special thanks to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, especially Dr. Lee. Also to Hospice of Dubuque and nurses Buffy and Megan.

Joyce Mezzano

Joyce Mezzano passed away on August 28, 2025, at the age of 97, surrounded by love at the Ennoble Nursing Home.

She was born on February 12, 1928, and raised in Helena, Montana, eventually traveling to Chicago, Illinois. She married and lived in several different suburbs of Chicago. Following the death of her husband, she settled into Galena, IL, and Dubuque, IA, with her daughter, Elaine.

Joyce loved to sew, crochet, golf, and play scrabble. She was a homemaker and also worked outside of the home, There were no rivals to her homemade meatballs and ravioli. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Patricia; her husband, John; and her grandson, Robert.

She is survived by her daughters, Barbara (Ken) Hoving and Elaine Kray; 8 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

The family would like to thank Care Initiatives Hospice for the tender care they gave her in the last few months.

Very special gratitude to every staff member, volunteer and resident at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation for the compassionate, professional care, support, and friendships they have shared with Joyce and her family for the last 2+ years. They have walked us through Joyce’s last journey with so much love that it made the bumps in the road easier to bear.

A private burial service will take place at a later date.

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

Gail Bullock

Gail (Ankrum) Bullock, 73, of Branson, MO, formerly of Maquoketa and Dubuque, IA, passed away on July 28, 2025 surrounded by family and friends after a courageous battle with Ovarian Cancer.

She was born in Des Moines, IA, on March 16, 1952, the daughter of Bill and Regina “Jean” (Deluhery) Ankrum. Gail and her family spent most of her childhood in Maquoketa, IA, where she graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1971.

Gail moved to Dubuque, IA in 1975 where she was employed first by The Shot Tower Inn and later by Mario’s Italian Restauant.

In 1993 she met J. C. Bullock a musician from Branson, MO. They were married a year later and just celebrated their 30th anniversary. In the years she lived in Branson she was employed by Tony Z’s Italian Restaurant where she became the go to person for may of the Stars. After the closure of the restaurant, she enjoyed the last 15 years with Spinnaker’s Resort in the sales department.

Surviving are her husband, J. C. Bullock of Branson, MO; a sister, Donna Ankrum of Hazel Green, WI, and many cousins and friends who will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, IL. She will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Maquoketa, IA, on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. close to her parents, Bill and Regina who preceded her in death.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cancer Society.

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

Robert Potter

Robert (Bob) Potter 79, of Mission Viejo, California and formerly of Dubuque, passed away peacefully on August 22 in Mission Viejo, California after a valiant battle with cancer.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:30 a.m., Thursday. September 11, 2025 at St. Kilian Church, Mission Viejo, California. To view the livestream please click the following link: https://vimeo.com/event/5342094

He was born on March 6, 1946, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Thelma and Arthur Potter.

He grew up in Dubuque and graduated from Wahlert High School in 1964. He married his high school sweetheart, Joyce Heitz, November 30th 1968. In 1966 he joined the U.S. Air Force serving proudly in Korea and the Philippines. After his discharge in 1971 Bob and Joyce moved to Iowa City where Bob attended the University of Iowa. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business in 1972 and began his career with Osco Drug. They eventually moved to Marlborough, Massachusetts where they raised their three children: Jeff, Stephanie and Kristen. In 1991 Bob accepted a position in California with Osco/ Save-On Drugs, where he later became Vice President of Operations for Southern California. After retiring in 2006 Bob embraced his favorite pastimes, playing golf, enjoying his morning coffee while reading the newspaper cover to cover, and traveling with Joyce and various friends.

His greatest joy, however, was spending time with his family, especially on the many trips they took together.

Bob is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Joyce; his children: Jeff (Christine) Potter and their sons Drew and Danny; Stephanie Shaffer and her son Brian and Kristen (Ben) Gordon and their children Jake and Sophie. His siblings Gary (Ann) Potter; Joyce Potter; Carol (Jim) Voelker and Ralph (Ann) Potter. Also surviving are many in-laws and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Duane, in October of last year and looked forward to reuniting with him in heaven.

He will be remembered for his integrity, positive attitude, great sense of humor, and iconic full head of hair.

Memorials can be given to Veteran Emergency Assistance Fund, 215 15th St., Newport Beach, CA 92663

Phyllis Barton

Phyllis Barton, 92, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, August 29, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Phyllis will be 10:00 am Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery – Rickardsville.

Phyllis was born August 1, 1933, in Kieler, WI, the daughter of Clarence and Harriet (Gau) Lenstra. On June 30, 1951, she married Louis Barton in Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on April 12, 2015.

Phyllis worked in retail for twenty years.

She found joy in playing volleyball, square dancing, crocheting, country dancing, and spending time around a card table, especially when playing Euchre. A devoted and family-oriented woman, she was known by her children as “the best mother in the world.” She loved baking, with her apple and rhubarb pies becoming family favorites and a cherished part of many gatherings.

Survivors include her children, Michelle (Mike) Gentili of Stillman Valley, IL, JoEllen Hovind of Dubuque, Doug (Erin) Barton of Dubuque, Dan (Stacey) Barton of Dubuque, Dale Barton of Sherrill, David (Annette) Barton of Dubuque; one daughter-in-law, Diane (Bill) Lawler of Peosta; 17 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 11 great-great-grandchildren; and one sister, Tene Rodriquez of Long Island, NY.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one son, Steven, one daughter-in-law, Rhonda Barton, her parents, a great grandson, Collin Barton, and three siblings, Virginia Kieffer, Marvin Lenstra, and Robert Lenstra.

Phyllis’ family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque and the staff at Stonehill for their care.

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

Charles J. Kluesner

Charles J. “Chuck” Kluesner, 72, of Peosta, Iowa, passed away August 26, 2025.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service starting at 2:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Rev. G. Robert Gross officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in Rickardsville, Iowa.

Chuck was born on November 1, 1952, to Bernard and Dorothy (Engling) Kluesner. He graduated from Leo High School in Holy Cross in 1970.  He married Cathy Klein, on September 15, 1973, in Rickardsville. Together, they raised their son, Chris. She preceded him in death in September 1990.  In August 2007, Chuck married Donna and welcomed three bonus children into his life.

Chuck loved to garden and to share the fruits of his labor with his loved ones. Tending to the garden gave him a welcome excuse to give tractor rides to his grandchildren.  He watched the Iowa Hawkeyes whenever he had a chance and filled the gaps in with television westerns.  He also enjoyed providing for the birds, bunnies, and squirrels that graced their yard – always making sure they were well fed.  Chuck retired from Mi-T-M corporation after 27 years as a shipping supervisor.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Donna; his children, Chris Kluesner, Kayla (Ben) Schmidt Osborn, Mike (Samantha) Schmidt, and Tim (Aimee) Schmidt; his grandchildren, Theodore and Margaret Osborn, Brynnlee and Haylee Schmidt, and Henry and Hudson Schmidt; his siblings, Al (Jeanne) Kluesner, Peter (Karen) Kluesner, Duane (Mae) Kluesner, and Sherri (Ron) Hogan; and his siblings-in-law, Deb (Dan) Hogan, Joe (Lisa) Klein, Bob Klein, Lois (Darin) Berning, and Andy (Sharon) Klein. He is also survived by his step-siblings, Judy Vonderhaar, Mark (Jen Stansberry) Lucas, Jon (Bev) Lucas, Joe (Michelle) Lucas, Dan (Angie Phillips) Lucas, Carrie Schmitt, Connie (Leon) Jaeger, and Barb Lucas.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy; his parents Bernard and Dorothy; his step-father, Lawrence Lucas; his sister, Jean Kluesner; his mother- and father-in-law, Emmet and Elaine Klein; his sister-in-law, Lori (Klein) Garner; and his beloved dog, Bella.

In lieu of flowers, the family has established a memorial fund. Memorials can be sent to Leonard Funeral Home c/o Chuck Kluesner.

John L. Werner

John L. Werner, 67, of Galena, IL, passed away on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may gather after 9 AM until the time of the service. Burial will take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery in Galena, where military honors will be accorded at the graveside by the Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193.

He was born on September 9, 1957, in Hazel Green, WI, the son of John J. and Carolyn (Wilkinson) Werner. He attended St. Mary’s School and graduated from Galena High School in 1976. He enlisted in the United States Army on December 29, 1976, and served until his honorable discharge on December 13, 1979. John married Rose Coulthard on June 12, 1980, in Darlington, WI, and she preceded him in death on March 25, 2021. John worked at Country Cast in Galena for over 30 years, followed by a stint at Andersen Window and Door in Dubuque, IA. He enjoyed fishing, gambling, football, wrestling, and spending time with his grandkids.

He is survived by his father, John J. Werner; three daughters, Amy (Joe) Kibling, Bobby (Donny) Werner, and Nicole Budde; and seven grandchildren: Madison, Summer, Zander, Wyatt, Jay, Stephen, and Aubrey.

He was preceded in death by his mother, his wife, and his favorite dog, “Tubby.”

The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the Finley and Mercy therapy floors, doctors Matthews and Gullone, and UW-Madison for their care and support during this difficult time.

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

Kelly J. Jones

Kelly J. Jones, 69, of Apple River, IL, passed away on August 13, 2025, at UW-Madison Hospital in Madison, WI. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Apple River Event Center from 1 to 4 PM. The Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting with arrangements.

She was born on June 28, 1956, in Hazel Green, WI, the daughter of Leo J. and Donna J. (Radabaugh) Marsden. Kelly graduated from Warren High School in 1974. She married Paul Jones on July 6, 1985, in Schapville, IL. Kelly worked at Apple River Bank as a teller for 20 years before becoming a teacher’s aide and cook at Warren High School. She loved attending auctions and garage sales and collecting a variety of items.

She is survived by her husband, Paul; three sons, Cory (Chris) Blair, Brandon (Ashley Warner) Blair, and Robbie Jones; her grandchildren, Cassie (Colton Jansen) Blair, Matt Smith, Jer Mueller, Braysen, and Brielle Blair; a sister, Jan (Ed) Bussan; three sisters-in-law, Karen “Missy” Marsden, Peggy (Charles) Dannels, and Ann Marie (Bob) Heinkel, two brothers-in-law, Tom (Marge) Jones and Greg (Barb) Jones, an aunt, Janice Radabaugh; and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Kevin and Kyle, and two nephews, Jaime and Jacob Marsden, and her aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, the family will make a donation to Kelly’s favorite charities.

Online condolences can be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Allen D. Steinke

Allen D. Steinke, age 86, of Galena, Illinois, passed away on August 26, 2025, at Midwest Senior Living Community in Galena.

Friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, Monday, September 1, 2025 at the Miller and Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound, IL. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Schapville, IL. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena, IL

Allen was born on March 16, 1939, in Belvidere, IL, the son of Alvin and Virginia Steinke. He graduated from Harlem High School with the Class of 1957, and attended Rockford College, and Worsham College of Mortuary Science in Chicago. On April 22, 1961, he married Jeannine (Dahlberg) Steinke. Together they raised four children: Todd, Mark, Joellen, and Jill.

Allen began his career as a Deputy Coroner in Winnebago County and worked as a funeral director in Rockford and Loves Park, IL. In July 1970, he purchased Nash-Schmadeke Funeral Home in Galena, and opened a second funeral home in Scales Mound in 1980.  He owned and operated Steinke Funeral Home in Galena and Scales Mound until his retirement in 2002.

In addition to his work as a funeral director, Allen served as Jo Daviess County Coroner, for 20 years, from 1972-1992. Early in his career, he also operated an ambulance service in Galena.

His professional affiliations included membership in the National Funeral Director’s Association, the Illinois Funeral Director’s Association, the Illinois Coroner’s Association, and was past President of the Northern Illinois Funeral Director’s Association.

He was active in his community, serving as past President of both the Galena Chamber of Commerce and the Lion’s Club. He was also a member of the Elks, Eagles, Masons, and Oddfellows organizations. He belonged to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Schapville, IL. He loved music and sang in many choirs and at many events throughout his lifetime.

Allen was a kind and caring man with a wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, and cruising, spending time with his friends, and meeting with his coffee group at Apple Canyon Lake, where he lived for many years. Above all, Allen enjoyed spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jeannine; his children: Todd (Ann) Steinke, Mark Steinke, Joellen (Joel) Holland, and Jill (Damon) Muehleip; nine grandchildren: Lyndsi (Kevin) Scharpf, Sam Steinke, Luke Steinke, Ryan, Julia, and Reid Holland, and Mackenzie, Kaleb, and Chloe Muehleip; two great-grandchildren, Lola and Lloyd Scharpf; and his sister, Sharon Burns.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Midwest Senior Living Community and Hospice of Dubuque for their kindness and compassion.

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

Douglas S. McClaflin

Douglas S. “Doug” McClaflin, 64, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Douglas Scott McClaflin was born on March 26, 1961 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to John Wayne and Zelma Dolly (Sagers) McClaflin.  He was a 1979 graduate of Andrew Community High School.  He married Jacqueline “Jackie” Eggers in 1984 in Jackson County, Iowa.

Doug had worked as a carpenter all his life.  In 2008 he founded Northfork Construction, until he retired in January of 2023.

Doug was a member of Faith Community Church in Maquoketa.  He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, camping, fishing and trapping.  He was a master carpenter who could fix anything.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Jackie McClaflin of Maquoketa, IA; sisters, Brenda (Lowell) Carlson of Maquoketa, IA, and Denise Felderman of MO; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of his life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Faith Community Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M. on Tuesday at the church.  Burial will be at Streets Cemetery, rural Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Douglas S. “Doug” McClaflin memorial fund has been established.

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

Dale C. Ernst

Dale C. Ernst, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 26th, 2025.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29th, 2025 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a funeral service and military honors to be held at 7:00 p.m.

Dale was born May 21, 1950, in Bellevue, IA, the son of Carl and Olivia (Ambrosy) Ernst. He graduated from Marquette High School in 1968. He served in the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1973. He completed his apprenticeship to become a licensed electrician and worked many years with Kinsella Electric and was a proud, active IBEW member.

He married Carla Noel on September 28, 1974, at Nativity Church in Dubuque. They have three daughters, Dawn (Joe) Sabin, Lynn (Nathan) Kidwell, and Laura (Ryan) Castelline. They have eight grandchildren: Jonathan, Michael, Brenden, Hunter, Daniel, Adam, Lucy, and Alice.

Dale loved his family and enjoyed playing cards. He spent a lot of time mentoring his children and grandchildren on how to do everything from fixing the car, electrical work, fixing things around the house, finances, and living life well. He was a great supervisor.

Dale is survived by his wife; his children and grandchildren; his mother, Olivia (Ambrosy) Ernst; his siblings, Elaine (Bill) VanderMeulen, Diane (Len) Kotz, Steve (Gail) Ernst, and Carla Ernst; his brothers-in-law, Dave Noel, Gary (Kathy) Noel, and Mike (Lisa) Noel; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Carl Ernst; Carla’s parents, Alice (Rahe) and Carl Noel; his brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Carol Ernst; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Tom and Janet Noel; and his nephews, Billy VanderMeulen and Chris Noel.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wycliffe Bible Translators – MBR-Zapotec TdV Translation Project (ID: M803406) in Dale’s memory. This will help provide Scripture in Zapotec for the area where Lynn and Nathan work and where they lived for the last five years.

Dale’s deep love, quick laugh, and kindness to all will forever live in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

Clifford P. Green

Clifford P. “Cliff” Green, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on August 24, 2025, at Luther Manor Grand Meadows while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Clifford’s life, a private graveside family service will be held at the Asbury Cemetery.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Clifford’s family.

Clifford was born on November 28, 1954, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Arnold F. and Lois C. (Reuter) Green.  He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Patricia A. Breiner on November 10, 1979.

Clifford was a life-long dairy farmer.  He began his time on the farm working with his parents and siblings.  Over time he worked the same land with his children and grandson, Isaac, and even with some of the same equipment.

Aside from farming, Cliff earned his pilot’s license and liked to give plane rides to family.  In his youth, he was an avid adventurer flying all the way to the Farm Progress Show in Indiana and took a motorcycle trip around the country with his brother, Ed.  Some of Cliff’s other favorite activities included spending time with his grandson, relaxing in his glider, and eating cheese.  He was also a big fan of music, especially anything with heavy drums, and liked to go see musicals.  Whenever asked for a song request, he would choose Cher’s “Believe”, or “Highway to the Danger Zone” from Top Gun.

Cliff lived a simple life and knew how to enjoy the simple things.  Should you like to honor him, we ask that you raise your glass of milk in a toast to Clifford Green and the appreciation of all the little things life has to offer.

Those left to cherish the memory of Clifford include,

his loving wife of 45 years,
Patricia Green, Dubuque, IA;

his two adored daughters,
Stephanie (Jade) Doyle, Dyersville, IA,
and Rebecca Green, Dubuque, IA;

his grandson,
Isaac Doyle;

his siblings,
Melvin (Barb) Green, Dubuque, IA,
Edward Green, Dubuque, IA,
JoAnn Heber, Dubuque, IA,
Barbara Barth, Dubuque, IA,
Joseph (Michelle) Green, Cascade, IA,
Karen (Joe) Meier, Cascade, IA,
and Mary (Kevin) Love, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Clifford was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother-in-law, Loren Heber.

Clifford’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Grand Meadows and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to thank all of our family, friends and neighbors who have reached out to help during this most difficult time.

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

David D. Schmid

David D. Schmid, 74, of Galena, IL, passed away on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals in Iowa City, IA. A private family service will be held at a later date. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family. He was born on May 25, 1951, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Clarence and Ann {Ross} Schmid.

David graduated from Galena High School in 1969. He was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War on February 18, 1971, where he served as an MP assigned to Germany until his honorable discharge on February 9, 1973. On October 5, 1974, he married Neva Bautsch in Galena, who survives him. David worked for over thirty years at Signcraft as a screen printer, retiring in 2021. He enjoyed spending time with his family, traveling, hunting in his younger years, and playing slots at the casino. David was a loyal fan of the Chicago Bears and the Pittsburgh Pirates.

He is survived by his loving wife Neva; his siblings, Patricia Ballhagen and Robert (Bonnie) Schmid; his mother-in-law, Alice Muchow; sister-in-law, Cindy (Joe Sargent) Glesne; and his aunts, Elsie McNett and Juliette Schmid, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

David was preceded in death by his parents; three siblings, Dennis, Don, and Lori; and his brother-in-law, Duane Ballhagen.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Galena EMS, the doctors and staff at MercyOne CV-ICU, and the University of Iowa Hospitals’ CV-ICU units, as well as to Michelle, Blake, Cindy, Kathy, Gary, Jody, Tammy, Chase, and Amanda. Your care, compassion, and unwavering support will always be deeply appreciated and remembered.

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

James J. Appel

James Jay Appel, 81, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in East Dubuque, Illinois, on Monday, August 25th, surrounded by his devoted family and his wife of 59 years, Gini.

Jim was born in Dubuque, IA, the son of Robert and Elsie (Rapp) Appel on December 27, 1943.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque, with Pastor Crystal Weber officiating. Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday at the church. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Jim found joy in the simple pleasures of life—boating on Frentress Lake, gathering around bonfires, and playing his cherished accordion. He treasured time with lifelong friends, cheered enthusiastically at his grandson River’s track meets, and proudly supported his granddaughter Liliana in her softball and volleyball games. To River and Lili, he was simply “Pa”—a title worn with love and pride. His warmth extended beyond family, touching the lives of Candie, Susie, and Sharon, who became like family to him.

A graduate of Dubuque Senior High School and the University of Dubuque, Jim was drafted into the Army shortly after marrying Gini and served honorably in Munich, Germany. Upon returning home, he joined the family business, Appel’s Crystal Cleaning, and later held various occupations before retiring from the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Jim’s commitment to service was unwavering. He was honored with a Quilt of Valor and participated in the Honor Flight this past May. He proudly served on several positions with Wesley Methodist Church and on the East Dubuque School Board. His musical spirit lived on through the Sweetwater Quartet—now reunited in heaven for an eternal performance.

In his later years, Jim embraced every moment: sharing laughs at Aldi’s and Hy-Vee, finding the best deals, and he looked forward to playing the accordion in Galena. He is survived by his loving wife Gini (Beck), daughters Lisa Appel and Kristi (Manny) Alvarado, and grandchildren River and Liliana Alvarado. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother John.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Jim’s medical team, especially Dr. Morgan-Ihrig, her exceptional staff, and Bridget Schmidt, ARNP.

A memorial fund has been established in Jim’s honor.

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

Karen M. Wienen

Karen M. (Wubben) Wienen, 60, of Scales Mound, IL, and formerly of Menominee, IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at home surrounded by her family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Scales Mound, with Fr. Robert Chinnappan officiating.  Burial will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Scales Mound, IL.

Family and friends may visit or call from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday at the MILLER FUNERAL HOME IN EAST DUBUQUE, IL, and from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. on Friday at Holy Trinity Church in Scales Mound, IL.

Karen was born on August 3, 1965, at Hazel Green, WI, the daughter of Leo G. and Rosalinda M. (Middendorf) Wubben. She was a graduate of Galena High School, the class of 1983. Karen was united in marriage to, high school sweetheart, John M. Wienen on September 26, 1987, at St. Mary’s Church in Galena, IL.

She received her associate’s degree from NICC at Peosta, IA. Karen was a legal assistant with Attorney Phil Jensen since 1988. She was a member of Holy Trinity Parish at Scales Mound and St. Mary’s Parish in Galena.

Karen loved genealogy, quilting and spoiling her grandchildren.

Surviving is her husband, John; and loving mother of her two children, Jordan (Alex) Ertmer of Scales Mound, IL and Kyle (Alexis) Wienen of Galena, IL; two grandchildren, Cameron and Jaxson and one on the way. Her siblings, Marilyn Reed of Scales Mound, IL, Judy (Dan) Webster of Shullsburg, WI, David (Twila) Wubben of Mason City, IA, Richard (Lois) Wubben of Menominee, IL, Mary Carol (Reid) Batteram of Hazel Green, WI, Beverly (Jeff) Leahy of Shullsburg, WI, and Daniel (Betty) Wubben of Hazel Green, WI; many nieces and nephews; her uncle, Walter (Marceline) Middendorf and aunt, Jane Middendorf; her nine sisters-in-law, Betsy (Jim) Udelhofen, Barb Wienen, Rosie (Terry) Deininger, Cheryl (Joe) Waite, Linda Holland, Eileen (Mark Anger) Townsend, Susie (Gary) Schultz, Peggy Schultz, and Jeanne Pooley, her seven brothers-in-law, Terry (Deb), Chuck (Toni), Tim (Gretchen), Richard, Bill (Kathy), Bob (Patsy), and Donald (Sandra) Wienen, and sister-in-law, Edie (Tom) Thies.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Rosalinda, her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Luras and Helene (Marsden) Wienen, her in-laws, Bill Reed, Luras Wienen, Jr, Ellen “Tuddy” Wienen, Nancy Wienen, Jack Pooley and DuWayne Schultz.

Karen’s family wishes to thank Dr. Mark Hermann and Tony, the Wendt Center Staff and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Becky for their kind and compassionate care shown to Karen and her family.

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