Obituaries Archive

Patrick J. Klein

Patrick J. Klein, 69, of Rickardsville, Iowa passed away peacefully, Thursday, December 7, 2023 on the family farm where he grew up and farmed his entire life.

Per Pat’s request there will be no services, a celebration of life will be at a later date at “Uncle Pat’s Shady Rest” on the Klein farm.

Pat was born on November 3, 1954 in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Clarence J. and Rose (Hanson) Klein. Pat graduated from Western Dubuque, Class of 1973.

Pat farmed all his life with his brothers. Pat was quite the story teller. Always a joy to visit, his positive, fun spirit was enjoyed by all who knew him. Uncle Pat taught his nieces and nephews much of history, geography, and many other things.

Survivors include his brothers: Mike (Sue) Klein, Bill (Mary) Klein, Greg Klein, Paul Klein; sisters: Barb (Ted) Maiers, Bev (Mark) Leibfried; brother-in-law, Andy Thomas; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; step-mother, Dee Klein; siblings: Thomas Klein, Lynne Thomas; and a sister-in-law, Cyd Klein.

Pat’s family would like to thank Susie and Pat’s “mid-mart Family “ for all their kindness through the years. A special thank you to the Hospice of Dubuque, especially Buffy, Peggy, and Nicole who showed Pat, great care and support in his final year. Truly Angels on Earth.

Most of all a thank you to Paul for welcoming Pat into his home, so Pat could spend his final year on the farm. Paul, you not only gave this gift to Pat but to all of the siblings. The time, stories, and all the love we shared with Pat will never be forgotten.

Pat, we will think of you often as we continue to create memories at your “Shady Rest.” Rest in Peace, dear brother.

Kramer Funeral Home in Holy Cross 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.

David G. Hoefler

David G. “Dave”  Hoefler,  was born on September 21, 1945, in New Vienna, Iowa. The youngest son of John and Lucille (Huegelmann) Hoefler.

Dave married Joyce in New Vienna on May 24, 1982. He enjoyed spending time on the farm, especially with his nephews. He had a passion for Massey Ferguson tractors, along with cars. “Speedy” especially enjoyed fast and curvy roads in his Plymouth.

Dave passed away on Thursday, December 7, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Joyce; and his children: Bill, Stacy, and Aimee (Jeremy); grandchildren: Kelsey Hoefler-Merfeld, Jacob and Benjamin Lepsch; siblings: Clem (Joanie) Hoefler of New Vienna, Germaine Schilling of Zwingle, Eileen (Jim) Simon of Farley; sister-in-law, Mary Ellen of Lamont; and many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Donna; siblings: Mary Ann (Al) Geers, Arnold Hoefler, and John Hoefler.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville.  Visitation will continue at 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral mass.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 11, 2023, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in New Vienna with burial at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate with Rev. Carl Ries concelebrating.

A special thank you to the MercyOne Team, especially the Oncology, Radiation, ICU and CCU doctors, nurses and staff.

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.

Margaret A. Clayton

Margaret A. “Peggy” Clayton, 68, of Dubuque died December 7, 2023, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church in Dubuque on Thursday December 14, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. follow by Mass at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Jeffrey Frieden officiating. The burial will take place in Half Moon Bay CA. at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Peggy was born April 28, 1955. In 2002 she moved from Half Moon Bay California to Iowa to be reunited with the love of her life Tim. They married on January 1, 2003, in Las Vegas.

Peggy volunteered at Sageville School doing anything they needed her to do. She and Tim enjoyed traveling back and forth from California to see the grandkids. She loved to garden whether it was roses or vegetables. She was an avid reader, preferring romance novels. She read 386 books in one year and reviewed many of them for the authors.  Peggy was a very generous person, and she was known for her handmade crocheted gifts, mostly of all her baby blankets.

Peggy is survived by her devoted husband Timothy; children Joseph Samarzas, Yvonne Najac, Joshua (Emily) Clayton, Michelle (Dallas) Winter, Alex (Sabrina) Clayton; grandchildren Thea, Blythe, Etienie, Kayley, Oliver, Kaycy, Olivia, Juniper, Mia, Abby, Jaxsen, Lincoln, Tyler, Ella, Zane, Penelope, and Eli; special friend Devaun Lehman; sisters-in-law Lisa, Denise, Becky, Julie, and Connie; brother-in-law Kevin; step siblings-in-law Luann, Rick, Lisa, and Jeff; step-father-in-law; Richard Keller and Peggy’s fur babies Daisy, D.O.G., Muncher, and MinMin.

She is preceded in death by her parents, and brother-in-law Tom.

In lieu of flowers a memorial for Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD or CRPS) has been made in Peggy’s name.

The family would like to express a special thank you to the nurses on 1 South at Stonehill, the nurses and staff at MercyOne Dubuque’s ICU, and 3rd floor as well as Hospice of Dubuque.

Roger G. Dix

Roger G. Dix, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on December 7th, 2023, at home.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday December 12th, 2023, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service beginning at 3:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial with begin at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday December 13th, 2023, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta with Father Michael Schueller officiating. Friends and family may also visit from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass on Wednesday at church.

Roger was born on January 24th, 1940, in North Buena Vista, son of George and Iola (Cook) Dix. He attended Sacred Heart and Loras Academy in Dubuque. He was united in marriage to Carol Gruber on May 22nd, 1971. Roger worked in the factory at John Deere Dubuque Works for 40 years. He was a member of the John Deere men’s bowling league, the UAW, and men’s golf league. After retiring he enjoyed traveling, golfing, going to casinos, and spending time with his grandchildren. If you wanted to find him on a Friday afternoon, all you had to do was go to the Moracco Supper Club.

Roger is survived by his wife of 52 years Carol Dix, children Carla (Ron) Brosius and Dan (Michelle) Dix, grandchildren Brian, Catie, Logan, and Bradley Brosius and Camden Dix, sisters Marlene Bastian, Fay (Gene) Hansen, Mary Jean Kohler, and Cindy (Jeff) Hanson, brother Don (Cindy) Dix, sisters-in-law Sharon Dix and Elaine Dix, brother-in-law Jim Connolly, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Christy Dix, granddaughter Leah Brosius, parents George and Iola Dix, brothers Jack, Tom, and Ken, sister Joan Dix, and brothers-in-law Tom Bastian and Carson Kohler, a nephew, Dennis Hansen, and a great nephew Griffin Lamb.

Thank you to UnityPoint Finley Hospital’s 5th floor nurses as well as Hospice of Dubuque.

Margaret A. Becker

Margaret Ann Becker passed away on December 6th, 2023, at the age of 78.

Visitation will be on Monday, December 11th, from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a private family wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, December 12th, at 10:30 a.m. at the Church of the Nativity with Fr. Andy Upah officiating. The burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Margaret was born on April 9th, 1945, in Dubuque, Iowa. She was the daughter of Wilfred S. Clemens and mother Monica E. (Gansemer) Clemens, who predeceased her. She grew up in a family of five sisters and one brother in Dubuque, Iowa. Margaret attended Holy Ghost Catholic School and Wahlert Highschool. She later worked for Sweetheart Bakery where she would meet her late husband, James A. Becker. She spent many years working for Econo Foods, Donut Boy, and Hy-Vee in Dubuque, Iowa. She would pass on the tricks and trades learned in her many years spent in the kitchen to all of her loved ones.

Margaret married the only man she’d ever love, James A. Becker on February 20th, 1965, at Holy Ghost Church. The two young lovers lived their lives happily in Dubuque, Iowa until his death in 1987. Together, they have five children.

Margaret was known for her independent, confident, spunky, loyal, and loving personality. She was passionate about her many grandchildren and embraced every opportunity to boast about them. Margaret was dedicated to being present in their lives and consistently devoted time to them as they developed from children to adults. Margaret was a faithful woman and was committed to the Catholic Church. Margaret loved to volunteer her time as a Eucharistic minister. She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life; Hallmark movies, caring for plants, spoiling her children’s dogs, jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, and spending time in the kitchen with loved ones. She will be remembered for her unique wit, resilient attitude, and ability to make an impression on those around her.

Margaret will be deeply missed by her five children: James, Jr. (Julie) Becker, Steven (Rosanne) Becker, Lynne Becker, Michael (Amy) Becker, and Tracy (Matthew) Flynn; her sixteen grandchildren; three great grandchildren; sister Helen (Wayne, deceased) Gjerde, Cindy (Edward) Krueger, and Evelyn Clemens.

Margaret is preceded in death by her husband, James A. Becker, sisters Monica (Joseph) Locher and Mary (Ernie) Skraby, and brother Bobby Clemens. Mother-in-law Elizabeth and father-in-law James Becker. Brother-in-law Paul and sister-in-law Carol.

Kenneth L. Lane

Kenneth L. “Ken” Lane, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, peacefully passed away on December 6, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 57. He departed this life in the same town he was born, Maquoketa, Iowa, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on July 9, 1966, to the late Robert W. “Red” and Jacqualine Ann “Jackie” (Lancaster) Lane, Ken was a proud Maquoketa native through and through. He was known for his kindness, spirited personality, and an unwavering passion for life. Ken attended Maquoketa Community High School, where he excelled in sports and worked hard at Flapjack’s Restaurant, graduating in the class of ’85. He furthered his education at Clinton Community College, earning an Associate degree that would serve him well in his professional life.

May 1, 1993, marked the beginning of Ken’s most treasured partnership, as he wed the love of his life, Teresa A. “Traci” Galloway, in a beautiful ceremony in Maquoketa. Together, they created a loving home and a life full of joy and laughter.

Ken was a dedicated employee, having begun his career at Precision Metal Works, where he remained for nine years. The majority of his working years, however, were spent at Guardian Glass in DeWitt. For 27 years, he was a reliable and skilled “hot end” technician, respected and appreciated by his colleagues for his work ethic and camaraderie.

An ardent sports fan, Ken’s enthusiasm and support for his teams were unmatched. Whether it was football, wrestling, or hockey, he reveled in the thrill of the game. His heart beat strongest for the Chicago Bears, Blackhawks, and Cubs, and discussing their highs and lows was always a highlight of any conversation with him.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Traci Lane of Maquoketa, IA; daughter, Alexandra “Ali” (Abraham Josephs) Lane of Waterloo, IA; stepson, Ryne (Stephanie Clark) Schaver of Maquoketa, IA; 2 grandchildren, Jayden and Rylan Schaver; brother Robert, Jr. “Bob” Lane of Maquoketa, IA; niece, Kristin Lane; nephew, Matt Lane; in-laws, Don and Malinda Galloway of Monroe City, MO; and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A graveside service and burial celebrating Ken’s life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the family and will be used for a future scholarship for a Maquoketa Community High School Football player.

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

Cynthia J. Sitzman

Cynthia “Cindy” J. Sitzman, 73, of Dubuque, IA, and formerly of Galena and East Dubuque, IL, passed away Sunday, December 3, 2023, at Stonehill Health Center, Dubuque, IA. In keeping with her wishes a private family service will be held at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena. The burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena. Cremation rites have been accorded.

She was born October 11, 1950, in Dubuque, the daughter of Marvin and Virginia (Howe) Sitzmann. Cindy graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School, Dubuque with the class of 1968. After graduation, she moved to California to attend modeling school. Cindy modeled for magazine and department store ads until 1971 when she moved back to Galena. Her father was diagnosed with cancer, and she helped her mother care for him and her other siblings at home. She was united in marriage to Vernon “Butch” Behlke from 1972 until 1990. Cindy later married Alvin Petitgout and he preceded her in death on October 15, 2020.

She worked as a waitress, and housekeeper and decorated spec homes for the annual Christmas walk. In the 80s, she worked at Eagle Ridge Inn and Resort where she helped implement the Rental program as well as the Christmas Walk that continues today. Cindy enjoyed crafts, painting, interior design, and drawing.Christmas was her favorite time of year, and she loved decorating the whole house and displaying her huge collection of Santa Clauses…which her oldest grandson, Brandon, will take over in her memory.

She is survived by her three sons, Cory (Tracy), Jeremy (Angela), and Jody Behlke, her grandchildren, Brandon (Pam), Ben (Lilly), Grace, Lydia, and Shayden Behlke, her siblings, Suzanne (Tom) Riedl, Jenny (Ron) Snyder, Vickie (Terry) Cole, Sally (Don) Reich, Audrey Dittmar, and John (Rik) Sitzmann, her stepsiblings, Connie Hendricks and Gary (Shari) Hillary.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Al, three siblings, Doug, Pete, and Georgia Sitzmann, and a stepbrother-in-law, Bill Hendricks.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Stone Hill Health Center especially Sheila Van Gordon, and Hospice of Dubuque. Your care and kindness will never be forgotten.

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

Mary M. Gereau

Mary M. Gereau, age 73, of Galena, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 3, 2023, at her home.  To honor Mary’s life, private family services were held.  Burial was in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Mary’s family.

Mary was born on April 25, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Donald J. and Mary V. (Anderson) Hesselman Sr.

Mary graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School, Class of 1968.  Mary was employed as a teacher’s aide for special needs children in Barrington Hills, Illinois.  She was very fortunate to be able to retire at a young age and enjoy her free time.  She was married to David Hardin on December 12, 1969, in Dubuque.  They had a son together before deciding to go their separate ways in 1978.  She later married Dale Gereau on April 24, 1981, in Kane County, Illinois, but sadly they divorced in 2015.  Mary liked the simple things in life like cooking, gardening and talking to her family and friends on the phone.  She truly loved her home and her community in Galena and enjoyed keeping up on all the latest events.  Mary was always excited about spending time with her family, especially when it revolved around getting together and cooking.  She participated in the Chili Cookoff several times in Dubuque, Wingfest and making snacks for Superbowl parties was always an event.  Mary also liked spending time at her hobby farm near Dodgeville, Wisconsin.  Mary was one of a kind and will be deeply missed by all of her family and friends.

Those left to cherish Mary’s memory include

her son,
David (Dawn) Hardin Jr., Fallon, NV;

her granddaughter,
Renee Allred, Elko, NV;

a great-granddaughter,
Olivia Garcia;

her siblings,
Don (Gwen) Hesselman,
Steve (Becky) Hesselman,
Mark Hesselman,
Mike (Terri) Hesselman,
Tony (Jill) Hesselman,
Ann (Dave Heller) Volkert,
Julie (Dave) Nauman
and Jane Scarlino, all of Dubuque, IA;

many nieces and nephews;

and her former husbands,
David Hardin Sr., Manchester, IA
and Dale Gereau, Connecticut.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Hesselman.

Mary’s family would like to thank her wonderful neighbor, Joan Wallace, for being a great friend to Mary these past years.

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

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

Shirley I. Daack

Shirley Irene (Sorenson) Daack, passed away November 30, 2023, of complications due to a medical procedure in Rochester, Minnesota. Her loving husband, William (Bill) Daack, of 61 years and daughter, Rachel Daack, were with her. She was born and died in Minnesota and between made her way to Dubuque, IA where she made life wonderful for so many people.

Shirley was born in Warren, Minnesota, on March 5, 1941, to Genevieve and Willard Sorenson.  Her family moved to Hamilton and later to Missoula, Montana, where she grew up and graduated from Missoula County High School in 1959. In 1961 she set sail for Hawaii where she met and married Bill Daack on January 20, 1962. In May of 1963 she, Bill and their daughter, Sandy, moved to Dubuque. Shirley quickly became a Dubuquer giving birth to four more children: Elaine, Bryan, David, and Rachel; learning to play Euchre and Pinochle; attending large extended family gatherings; and becoming a Catholic. Throughout her young adult life, she was an engaged member of her parish, involved in school boards and volleyball teams, and played golf. She, together with Bill, Monsignor Dalton, and Mary and John O’Connell were responsible for bringing CEW to Dubuque.

There is so much we love about Shirley. Here are just few of the many things we treasure about her:  She loved being a grandma, green tea, and Christmas; she made very cool Barbie and doll clothes; her sense of humor and appreciation of a good joke (both clean and dirty); her love language of gift giving and sense of style; her love of nature and of Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. She was a super fan of any and everything her children and grandchildren did and was very proud of their individual accomplishments.  She loved being with friends, social gatherings, and playing games. She was an avid reader, consumer of knowledge, and a self-taught genius. She enjoyed the Little League World Series, Women’s Big 10 Volleyball, and the Westminster Dog Show.

Her biggest and long-lasting legacy is the very strong family she created and led. She was devoted to the creation of a family who valued and cared for each other no matter what. In addition to the physical life she gave to her own children, she accepted those who joined us as her own and cultivated a family who belong to one another. Most of all, she loved her Willy Joseph.

Those left to remember and cherish her include her husband, Bill; her children Sandra (Mike Hirsch), Elaine, Bryan (Sally Schwartz), David (Belinda Dunne), and Rachel (Tom Riley); her grandchildren Leah Hirsch (Chuck), William Hirsch (Jess), Calvin Daack, Margaret Daack (AJ), Nathen Riley, Caitlin Daack, James Riley, Claire Daack, and Grace Daack; siblings Donna Lindberg (David), Martha Petersen (John), Neil Sorenson (Darlene); sisters and brothers-in-law Sharon Sorenson, Leota Sorenson, Kenneth Daack (Kay), Ronald Daack, Barbra Weldon, Cheri Schaar, and Steven Daack (Kathy); a host of extended family members and dear, dear friends. She is preceded in death by her parents and two brothers Robert and Dick Sorenson, Bill’s parents Ruth and Merlin Daack, and brother-in-law Jerry Weldon.

We are grateful to the healthcare team at the Mayo Clinic who provided tender care, especially Angela and Courtney who helped transition her to a respectful death and her nurses Brent, Mandy, and Chelsea who remained with her and supported her family until the wee hours of the night.

We will celebrate Shirley with family and friends on January 20, 2024, at Happy’s Place on Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, Iowa from 1-6pm with a tribute and time for sharing from 1:30-2:30 followed by food and a joyous celebration—be prepared to dance!

She had tremendous compassion for people and animals in need and our family would like for people to make donations in support of the Dubuque Rescue Mission or the Dubuque Humane Society in lieu of sending flowers. We love, love, love you Shirley/mom/grandma, always and forever.

Charles M. Ansel

Charles M. “Mike” Ansel, age 76, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 8:01 a.m., on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at Harmony Dubuque.  To honor Mike’s life, family and friends may visit from 2:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 2:00 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, December 11, 2023, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Jeff Frieden officiating.  Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery where full military honors will be accorded by the American Legion Dubuque Post 6 and the Tri-State Vietnam Veterans.

Mike was born on August 2, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Charles K. and Ruby I. (Oldner) Ansel.

Mike graduated from Dubuque Senior High School, Class of 1966.  In October of 1966, he began serving his country with the U.S. Army in the 198th Infantry Brigade, 1st Battalion 52nd Infantry Regiment in Vietnam.  He was honorably discharged in October of 1968, continuing to serve in the Reserves until 1976.  After returning home from the service, Mike attended Madison Area Technical College for electronics and would put the knowledge he attained to good use in his working career.  Mike was employed in the Experimental Division of John Deere Dubuque Works as a Mechanic/Electronic Technician for 40 years, retiring in 2010.  He was married to the love of his life, Linda Buelow, on May 1, 1971.  The couple has been truly blessed with 5 wonderful children and 52 years of married life together.  Mike was a very active member of his community.  He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish, the UAW Local 94, the Tri-State Vietnam Veterans, the American Legion Dubuque Post 6, the V.F.W. and the D.A.V.  He also volunteered at the Veterans Freedom Center, with Reflections in the Park and with the Jamestown Volunteer Fire Department in Kieler, Wisconsin for 15 years.  When Mike found some free time in his days he enjoyed attending athletic events watching his children, especially Women’s Rugby.  Mike was a history buff and took many family adventures across the country.  Some of his favorite trips were going to Colorado every year and an Alaskan cruise with Linda.  He was an avid skier and worked at Sundown Mountain as both a Ski Instructor and with Ski Patrol for several years.  Mike also liked to spend time on the river boating, was very active in canoe racing in the 1980’s and was instrumental in instilling a love of the outdoors in his children.  Mike regularly loaded up the canoes and kids for a trip to various rivers in the tri-state area.  He loved camping with his family and was active in the Boy Scout program as an Assistant Scoutmaster with Troop 48.  Family was always his top priority and Mike was always taking care of everyone trying to make their lives easier.  Mike was an excellent role model, teaching what it means to put others before yourself.  He was reliable, steady and true, always standing up for what was right and fighting for those who could not fight for themselves.  Mike was deeply loved and will be greatly missed!

Those left to cherish Mike’s memory include

his loving wife,
Linda Ansel, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Michelle (Brian) Bahr, Dubuque, IA,
Tonya (Ben Boyle) Ansel, Wondai, Australia,
Andrew Ansel, Washington D.C.,
Jeremy (Laura) Ansel, North Port, FL
and Nicholas “Skip” (DeDe) Ansel, Dubuque, IA;

6 grandchildren,
Trenton, Isabelle, Lucas, Charlotte, Huckleberry and Everett;

his siblings,
Sheila Sharkey, Dubuque, IA,
Steve (Carol) Ansel, Colorado Springs, CO,
Nancy Leslein, Dubuque, IA
and Kevin (Stephanie Niedert) Ansel, Waverly, IA;

his in-laws,
Barb (Mel) Green, Dubuque, IA,
David Buelow, Dubuque, IA,
Al (Geri) Buelow, Asbury, IA,
Doris Buelow, Tioga, LA
and Dan Tuegel, Dubuque, IA;

and several nieces and nephews.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Dennis (Betty) Ansel; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Erwin and Dorothy Buelow; his in-laws, Tom Sharkey, Norm Dorst, Al Stuart, Sandie Buelow, Richard Buelow and Donna Tuegel; and his faithful dog, Copper.

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

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

Lynn M. Hobbs

Lynn M. Remakel Hobbs, age 60, of Dubuque, Iowa passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on November 30, 2023.

A celebration of life will take place on Thursday December 28, 2023 from 5pm-8pm at the Days Inn on Highway 20 in Dubuque, IA.

Lynn was born on September 21, 1963 in Dubuque, Iowa, she is the daughter of James and Elaine (Timmerman) Johnson. She grew up in Dubuque, IA and graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School. Lynn married Jonathan Remakel in 1988. She worked at AY McDonald manufacturing company as an administrative assistant for many years before becoming a stay at home mother when her children were born. Lynn and Jonathan had 3 children together, Stephany, Hope and Andrew.

Many years later in 2009 she was remarried to John Hobbs while she was working in the service industry. Lynn liked to spend her time watching Bohemian Rhapsody and listening to Queen. She also liked to spend time with her family and doing various arts and crafts. She especially enjoyed crocheting and would crochet items for family and friends.

Lynn is survived by her husband, John Hobbs; her children, Stephany (Philip) Elking, Hope (Zach) Kracke and Andrew Remakel; grandchildren, Calvin and Maxwell Kracke, future baby Elking; siblings, Lori (Ben) Schoenberger, Lisa (Steve) Greenwood and Erik (Jen) Johnson and by her former husband, Jonathan Remakel. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins and distant relatives that loved her very much.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Elaine Johnson.

The family would like to thank the staff at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for their wonderful care of Lynn.

Mary M. Legler

Mary M. Legler, 91, of East Dubuque, Illinois, formerly of rural Hazel Green, Wisconsin, passed away Monday, December 4, 2023. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, Benton, Wisconsin. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Friends and family may call from 9-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the service. Casey-McNett Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Cuba City is assisting the family.

Mary was born on April 1, 1932, the daughter of Vincent and Genevieve “Jane” (McKillip) Chadwick. She graduated from Hazel Green High School and earned her teaching certificate from Wisconsin State College of Platteville. Mary was united in marriage to John “Joe” Legler on June 11, 1955. He preceded her in death on November 13, 2011.

Mary taught in a one-room schoolhouse for several years before leaving to raise her two children and help Joe on the farm. She was a master seamstress, loved reading, and enjoyed crossword puzzles. Upon selling the dairy herd, Mary and Joe began traveling extensively throughout the United States and beyond.

Mary is survived by two children, Allan (Diane Miesbauer) Legler, Hartland, WI, and Rosemary (Gary) Keleher, Dubuque, IA; six grandchildren, Christopher (fiancée, Andrea) Legler, Danita (Steve) Legler, Allan M. (Crystal) Legler, Paula (Brandon) Duve, Peter (Riley) Keleher and Patrick Keleher; six great-grandsons; and one great-great-grandson.

She was also preceded in death by her parents; two siblings, Loren (Peg) Chadwick and Mazie (Orlie) Merfeld; and her sister-in-law, Martina (Bud) Runde. 

The family wishes to thank the staff of Ahva Living and Hospice of Dubuque for the exceptional care given to Mary. 

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

Rev. Msgr. James O. Barta

The Rev. Msgr. James O. Barta, PhD., 92, died on Monday, December 4, 2023, in Dubuque, at Stonehill Health Center. A native of Fairfax, Iowa, he was born on October 22, 1931, to Omer and Bertha (Brecht) Barta.

Visitation for Monsignor Barta will be held on Friday, December 8 at Loras College, Christ the King Chapel from 3:00 – 6:30 p.m. with a vigil service at 6:30.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Saturday, December 9, 2023, at Loras College, Christ the King Chapel at 10:30 with Most Reverand Thomas Zinkula officiating and Rev. Ardel Barta as homilist.  A livestream of the funeral mass will be on Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory’s Facebook page.

Msgr. Barta will be laid to rest in the St. Patrick Cemetery, Fairfax, IA on Monday, December 11th, at 11:00 a.m.

Father Barta was ordained to the priesthood on December 17, 1955, at the North American College in Rome.  His first assignment was as associate pastor of St. Wenceslaus Parish, Cedar Rapids, where he served for a year before moving to Loras College where he would spend the next 37 years as a member of the faculty, Academic Dean, acting president and then for the final 7 years at Loras as its President.  During his early years at Loras he completed graduate studies at Fordham University.

In 1994, Archbishop Daniel Kucera appointed him the Episcopal Vicar for the Cedar Rapids Region of the Archdiocese, which he served at until 1999, when Archbishop Jerome Hanus appointed him Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar for the Dubuque Region.  He served as Vicar General and Episcopal Vicar until his retirement in 2009.  He was chaplain of Clarke College from 1972-1987. He also served as Chaplain of the Sister’s of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVMs) from 1999 until 2009.

Father Barta was named a Prelate of Honor (Monsignor) by St. Pope John Paul II in 1987, and was made a Protonotary Apostolic in 2004.  He served the Archdiocese of Dubuque over the years on many boards, commissions and councils.

He was preceded in death by his parents Omer & Bertha; brother, Melvin (Mike) & Dorothy Barta, and sister, Arlene and Max Thompson.

Monsignor Barta is survived by his brother Ron (Darlene) Barta, of Hot Springs Village AR, and his brother Rev. Ardel Barta, of Dubuque; along with nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to “Catholic Charities of Dubuque”.

Kathleen Kuriger

Kathleen “Kathy” Kuriger, 84, of Dubuque, passed away December 3, 2023. Visitation will be held from 9:00-10:15a.m., Thursday, December 7th at the Church of the Nativity. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:30a.m., with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Inurnment will be in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Monticello.

Kathy was born on January 31, 1939, to Bernard and Mary (Minnis) Kuriger in Monticello, IA. As a little girl she loved to sing and dance. She loved cars, especially her blue Mustang convertible, and taking frequent road trips. Kathy made friends easily and we are quite certain she was the original Chatty Kathy.

She attended nursing school at Mount Mercy in Cedar Rapids and according to her sister Mary Anne became a nurse because she loved people. After graduation she joined the Sisters of St Francis and began her early nursing career included work at the Anamosa Penitentiary, Xavier, and Dyersville before heading west to California. There she spent 39 years at Stanford University Hospital where she worked in Pediatrics, ICU and the Cardiac Care recovery room. She made many lifelong friends and had many adventures in CA.

Kathy was blessed with her son Nathan in 1977 and being a mom was her greatest joy. They shared many happy years in Menlo Park. Family was always a priority and following retirement she came back to Monticello to care for her father, allowing him to remain at home. She loved dogs, babies, cooking, traveling, cinnamon rolls, artichokes, avocados, and the Bay Area. A highlight was walking across the Golden Gate Bridge on its 50th anniversary with Nathan.

She is survived by her son Nathan, his fiancé Meg McGowan, her sister Mary Anne (late husband Frank) Miller, her brother Jack (Renee) Kuriger and a huge extended family.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Patricia Kuriger and Shelia (Jim) Chambers, her niece Lisa Finnegan and her husband Brian Finnegan.

Memorials can be sent to the funeral home on behalf of Nathan Kuriger. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home & Crematory 2659 John F. Kennedy Road Dubuque, Iowa 52002

Special Thank you to the Nurses at Finley Hospital and the wonderful care they provided for Kathy.

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

Eric I. Evers

Eric I. Evers, age 78, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 1:10 a.m., on Friday, December 1, 2023, at Stonehill Health Center.  To honor Eric’s life private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Eric’s family.