Obituaries Archive

Charles E. Stork

Charles Edward Stork died on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, surrounded by his family. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM, Monday, September 16, 2024, at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Galena, IL where friends may call after noon until the time of service.

The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Military honors will be accorded graveside by Galena VFW Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

He was born as the oldest twin before his brother Leroy, on June 15, 1933, to parents Edward and Charlotte Stork on the farm in rural Arlington, NE. After serving in the US Navy (1952-54) Chuck married Harriet Van Uxem on May 28, 1955, in Wauwatosa, WI. Together they moved to Lincoln, NE where Chuck attended and graduated from the University of Nebraska in 1959. Chuck spent his entire career working in Human Resources for Deere and Co. While he and Harriet raised their three children, Susan, David, and Jon in Cedar Falls, Davenport and Dubuque, IA. They later divorced.

Chuck married Carolyn Bennett on September 16, 1989, and they made their home in Dyersville, IA, and ultimately, East Dubuque, IL. They have enjoyed a second home in Maricopa, AZ since 2006. In both East Dubuque/Galena and Maricopa, Chuck was active in his church, a longtime member of the Early V-8 Ford of America club, Jaguar Club of North America and the Studebaker Drivers Club, and a lifetime antique, classic and modern car enthusiast. He regularly participated in local and national car shows with many of his prize cars over the years, winning numerous awards. In 2023, Chuck was pleased to participate in the Dubuque Honor Flight to Washington, DC.

Survivors include his wife, Carolyn Bennett Stork, of East Dubuque, his sisters Ruth Doelman, of DuPont, WA, and Eva Stork, of Waukesha, WI, his children Susan Stork, David (Debra) Stork both of Dubuque, Jon (Alice) Stork, of Cedar Rapids, IA, Dennis (Angie) Bennett, of Norwalk, IA, and David (Sarah) Bennett, of Chandler, AZ. Grandchildren include Carly Stork, Krista Stork (Lauren Ghiradello), Dylan Venneman, Emily Venneman, Anderson Bennett, Alexandra Bennett (Chase Schoenfelder), Sara Bennett and William Bennett.

Charles was preceded in death by an infant sister Eunice, his parents, Edward and Charlotte, and his twin brother Leroy.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in memory of Chuck.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Delores I. DeLarm,

Delores I. DeLarm, 86, of Wyoming, Iowa, and formerly of rural Onslow, passed away on Wednesday morning, September 11, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. 

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 12:30 P.M., Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at East Iron Hill Cemetery, rural Maquoketa, Iowa.  A public visitation will take place from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.   

Delores Iona Tracy was born on March 12, 1938 in Milford, Iowa, to Clifford Albert and Esther Charlotte (Sonnemaker) Tracy.  She was a 1956 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  She married Richard Arlen DeLarm at the Tracy Family Farm in Baldwin, Iowa on March 20, 1957.  To this union three children were born, Bret, Diane and Patty.

Following high school, Delores worked as a Bell Telephone Operator for one year.  She then became a housewife and farmed with her husband, first north of Monmouth for 20 years, and for 42 years west of Canton.

Delores was a member of the East Iron Hill Community Church, and its Ladies Aide.  She enjoyed fishing, canning, and baking award winning pies.

Those left to honor her memory include her children, Bret (April) DeLarm of rural Onslow, IA, Diane (Matt) Schaeffer of Wellman, IA, and Patty (Brian) Podhaski of Wyoming, IA; 8 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren; brothers, Burton (Rosemary) Tracy of Wyoming, IA, Mark (Lanette) Tracy of Oxford Junction, IA, and Jerald (Jan) Tracy of WI; brother-in-law, Tom Soppe of OH; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Richard on June 2, 2020, 2 sisters in infancy, 3 sisters Shirley (Keith) Crowe, Maxine (Don) Miller, and Leona Soppe, and 2 brothers Carlyle and Darryl Tracy.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to Hospice of Jackson County.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Please feel free to call or stop at the funeral home with notes of condolence or leave words of comfort on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com. 

Patricia A. Winklehaus

Patricia A. “Pat” Winklehaus, age 85, of Asbury, passed away peacefully at 1:07 a.m., on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Grand Meadows.  To honor Pat’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Saturday at the Church of the Resurrection, with Rev. Phillip G. Gibbs officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Pat’s family.

Pat was born on February 4, 1939, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, the daughter of Alfred and Dorothy (Kuster) Klein.  

Pat graduated from Cassville High School, Class of 1957.  After moving to Dubuque, she graduated from Bayless Business College.  Pat would put the knowledge she obtained to good use for several companies throughout the years.  She worked at B&G Automotive, Spensley & Gallogly Insurance, Dun & Bradstreet and Dubuque Star Brewing Company.  Pat married Arthur Winklehaus on February 5, 1982, at Sacred Heart Church.  They had a wonderful life together before Art preceded her in death on August 2, 2001.  Pat was always active and was a member of several organizations including Alpha Phi Master Sorority, Tri-State Antique Club, Church of the Resurrection and was a former member Sacred Heart Church.  She had an artistic eye.  Pat enjoyed adult coloring books and has created countless crochet pieces for family and friends, crocheting was her passion.  She and Art also loved to travel and have traversed the globe on several exciting adventures.  Pat has lived a full, wonderful life, and when adversity came her way she always rose up to the challenge.  She loved her family and will be deeply missed by her sisters, nieces and nephews.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include: 2 sisters, Eileen Johnson, Dubuque, IA and Phyllis (David) Koeller, Tiffin, IA; a nephew and 3 nieces; Brett (Karen) Koeller, Fox Point, WI, Lea (Dave) Montross, Williamsburg, IA, Rita (Rick) Elliott, Loves Park, IL and Erin (Mike) Ward, St. Joseph, IL; 10 great-nieces and great-nephews and 1 great great-niece.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arthur Winklehaus; and a brother-in-law, Earl Johnson.

Pat’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Grand Meadows the excellent care they have given Pat these past weeks.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

Greeting cards and memorials in Pat’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Patricia Winklehaus Family.

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

Elaine D. Snider Woodrum

Elaine Doris Snider Woodrum, 92, of Dubuque, died Friday, September 6, 2024.

Services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, September 21, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, with Rev. Marsha Wilfong officiating. Burial will be in Linwood Cemetery. A visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the times of services. The Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road is entrusted with arrangements.

Elaine was born on March 6, 1932, in Hudson, Iowa, the oldest daughter of Ed and Laura Snider. She graduated from West Waterloo High School. Elaine married Duaine Greenfield on July 26, 1950, and this union brought three daughters and two sons into the world.

On March 12, 1976, she married Arden Woodrum and they spent time together with numerous hobbies and adventures. Their most memorable times were traveling the USA and internationally. They became biking enthusiasts, enjoyed singing in the choir and working with the Westminster Church.

Elaine was a homemaker and kept busy raising the family. She was involved with several clubs and service organizations including PEO, TTT, and Mt. Pleasant Home. Cooking, sewing, skiing, glamping, and riding in Ragbrai, created many memorable times and lasting friendships.

She is survived by her children, Kathe (Neal) Rusher of Arizona, Sue (Steve) Butt, of Dubuque, Joan (Tony) Reidsma of Michigan, and Tim (Kristen) Greenfield of Dubuque; Stepson, Douglas (Linda) Woodrum, of California; brother, Norman Snider of Tennessee, and many treasured grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husbands, Duaine Greenfield and Arden Woodrum; sisters, June Rhoades and Marilyn Roberts; infant son, David Greenfield; and stepson, Brian Woodrum.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque or Westminster Presbyterian Church.

Special thank you to the dedicated staff at Oak Park Place, MercyOne, Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Andrea Ries.

George J. Skertich Jr.

George J. Skertich Jr., 86, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at home Sunday, September 1, 2024.

Visitation will be held 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 16, 2024, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Dubuque, Iowa followed directly by a mass. The mass will be live-streamed on the church’s website (stanthony-dubuque.org).  Burial to follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Dubuque.

George was born on August 24, 1938, in Whiting, Indiana.  He is the son of George J. Skertich Sr. and Grace M. (Roberts) Skertich. He met the love of his life Bette A. Furness on a blind date during the time that Bette was attending nursing school. They married April 10, 1965, at St. John Fisher Catholic Church in Chicago, Illinois.

George grew up in Whiting, Indiana, Harvey, Illinois and Crete, Illinois. George graduated from Thornton Township High School and later Colorado State College in Greeley, Colorado with a degree in teaching. George started his career at his alma mater Thornton Township High School District 205.  It was there in 1962 that George began the very first special education class for children in Harvey, Illinois.  Over the summers George later attended the University of Arizona to earn his Masters of Special Education.  In 1967 George was named the Director of Special Education for the Thornton Area Public School Association.  This organization encompassed Thornton Township High School District 205 and 9 elementary school districts.  In January 1968 the Association added Public School District 215 in Calumet City, Illinois and 6 more elementary school districts, bringing the total to 17 public school districts covering 48 square miles in South Suburban Cook County, Illinois.

In 1968 George was asked to write the educational specifications for a public school day building to serve severely mentally and physically handicapped children age 3-21 years of age.  A 15 acre site in South Holland, Illinois was selected and under George’s direction the building was completed in 1972.  The school was named E.C.H.O. School, which stands for Exceptional Children Have Opportunities.  On opening day the school welcomed 250 children from those 17 school districts.  George was named the Principal of E.C.H.O. School and served in that capacity until his retirement in 1994 after 32 years of service.  E.C.H.O. School is still in operation today.

George was one of the hardest workers. He was always thinking of others and putting others before himself, especially his loving wife Bette and family.  He used to throw fund-raising dinners for the students at E.C.H.O. School – shopping for and cooking the entire dinners himself.  He used to throw dances for the children where they would get to dress up and dance to a D.J. all evening.  Three to four times a year he would have lamb roasts at his home and invite many friends and family to partake in the festivities, including tractor rides around the property.  Many games of baseball were played in the yard, as well as kite-flying, Croatian smoked sausage making; Tamburitza playing and singing.

George was passionate about all things in life and a family man through and through.  He taught his children to work hard, play even harder, go to church, “keep it in the family”; change a tire, shoot a gun, skin a squirrel, clean a chicken, hunt for mushrooms in the forest and “have a deer walk into your freezer”.

In the 1980’s George organized the Skertich Family Reunion.  There were 9 uncle’s and 1 aunt on his father’s side and long before computers, the internet or Facebook he compiled a Skertich Family History Book with a family tree and contact information of all the family members. To this day the Skertich family still refers to this book.

After retirement George continued to enjoy cooking, lamb roasting, wine making, tennis, trap shooting, fishing, gardening and travel.  In 2014 George and Bette moved to Dubuque, Iowa to be closer to their grandsons.  George relished spending time with his grandsons Michael and Matthew and was very proud to say he was always on time and never missed a day picking them up from school.  He loved being their bus driver, #1 sports fan, chief chicken soup / salami sandwich maker, and fishing rig tie-er.  One of grandpa’s many talents was being able to fit 20 lb. of stuff into a 10 lb. box and his motto seemed to be anything could be fixed with an old piece of electrical wire, a piece of string or if you pounded on it hard or cussed loud enough.

George is survived by his wife Bette; son George J. Skertich III; daughter Nancy; son-in-law James Bodnar; grandsons Michael and Matthew Bodnar; brother Lee (Olive) Skertich of Phoenix Arizona; sister-in-law Marilyn Morgan of Clayton, North Carolina and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

George was preceded in death by his parents George Sr. and Grace M. (Roberts) Skertich; his in-laws Carl and Dorothy (Troyer) Furness; sister and brothers-in-law Carol Blagg, Tom Blagg and Jack Morgan.

The family would like to thank Lisa Crawford and the staff and fellow residents of Assisi Village for their loving compassionate care and friendship of George the last 10 years of his life.

Leonard Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements (leonardfuneralhome.com).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be forwarded to Hills and Dales, 1011 Davis Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001 (hillsdales.org) or Misericordia Heart of Mercy, 6300 N. Ridge, Chicago, Illinois 60660 (misericordia.com).

Dorothy M. Link

Dorothy M. Link, 96, of Dubuque formerly of Key West and Bernard, completed her earthly journey on Monday September 9, 2024.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 13th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Her Funeral Service will be at 10:30 a.m.  on Saturday September 14, 2024, at the funeral home with Fr. Martin Obeng officiating. The burial will follow the service at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Dorothy was born on August 11, 1928, in Rickardsville, Iowa, the daughter of Charles and Frances (Ellerbach) Wilwert. She married Lavern Link at Saint Joseph Church in Rickardsville on November 20, 1947, and together they shared 60 years of marriage until his passing on Feb. 25, 2008.

Dorothy and Lavern farmed together in Bernard from 1953 until retirement in 1980 when they moved to Key West.  She was an active member of Saint Joseph Key West parish and was a member of the Rosary Society, the prayer group, the craft league, and volunteered with the school lunch program.

She is survived by her two sons, David (Joyce) Link of Weatherford, Texas, Kenneth (Debra) Link of Bernard, two daughters Leann Link of Key West, and Linda (Thomas) Bergfeld of Otter Creek, eleven grandchildren Jason Link, Jeremy (Misty) Link, Kristy Link, Tracy (Eric) Konrardy, Jennifer (Dennis) White, Andrew (Anne) Link, David (Michaela) Ward, Michael Ward, Melissa (Tom) Kieffer, Stacey (Andy) Rufer, Josh (Kelly Rojemann) Bergfeld, twenty-four great grandchildren, a sister-in-law Luella Pape, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Lavern on Feb. 25, 2008, a son Robert R. Link on Nov. 30, 2003, her brothers Gilbert (Alice) Wilwert, Herman Wilwert, and Ralph (Elaine) Wilwert and sisters Calista (Paul) Hoppman and Mary Frances (John) Maiers.

The family would like to thank Sunset Park Place and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion. 

In lieu of flowers a Dorothy Link memorial fund has been established. 

Mark A. Beckman

Mark A. Beckman, 78, of Dubuque, formerly of Peosta, Iowa, died Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center, Dubuque.

Mark’s family and friends are encouraged to attend a celebration of his life at 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road. Food will be served from 2 to 3 p.m. A private visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday, at Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, 894 Peosta St., with a Mass to follow at St. John the Baptist Church, 235 Peosta St. A private interment of ashes will be held at St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Centralia.

Mark was born on Sept. 4, 1946, in Dubuque, son of LeRoy and Eleanor (Radloff) Beckman.

He married Darlene Bakey on Jan. 7, 1967, at Holy Family Church in the New Melleray area of rural Peosta. Darlene preceded Mark in death on March 19, 2005.

Mark went by many names: Dad, Boppa, Grandpa, Uncle Mark, “Calhoun” and Marky. He was a loving and supportive husband, brother, father, grandfather, uncle, great-uncle, father-in-law and friend. Mark was determined to support the young people in his life by attending as many of their sports events and extracurricular activities as possible.

Mark excelled in baseball and softball, as a player and a coach. As a coach, he taught many of the Peosta area’s finest players the fundamentals of the game.

Mark was happiest tailgating at Milwaukee Brewers games, fishing at “The Ranch” outside Graf, cheering for his beloved Brewers and Iowa Hawkeyes, watching vintage Western movies on television, playing euchre with family and friends (“this hand looks like a foot,” he would say when dealt less-than-promising cards), and sitting on the deck of his home listening to the “Saturday Night Kat Cruise” on the radio.

“You can’t roller skate in a buffalo herd,” Mark would say, and what seemed like a head-scratching non sequitur turned out to be a lyric from a Roger Miller hit single of the 1960s. Mark loved music and would sing along to Johnny Cash, Johnny Horton and Alan Jackson.

Mark was a hard worker. After graduating from Western Dubuque High School, he worked at Kalb Feed Store, Ridge Motor & Machine Company, John Deere and Flexsteel Industries, where he retired.

Mark is survived by three daughters, Jill (Erik) Hogstrom, of Dubuque, Cindy (Chris) Shaffer, of Grimes, and Kelly (Matt) Murley, of Bondurant; a son, David (Kimberly) Beckman, of Cedar Rapids; seven grandchildren, Trey (Grace) and Gabrielle Beckman, K. Lovisa (Tori) Railstrom, Annika Hogstrom, Morgan Olivia Shaffer and Finn and Ainsley Murley; and sisters Beverly Hedrick, of Dyersville; and Georgia Ann Carpenter, of Hastings, Minn.; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to Darlene, Mark was preceded in death by his sisters and brothers, Patty Heiar, Marlene Miller, Roger “Butch” Beckman and Michael Beckman in infancy.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations in Mark’s name to Hospice of Dubuque, Stonehill Franciscan Services and Dubuque Regional Humane Society.

A Video tribute is available to view online and online condolences may be left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com.

Elinor M. Bowling

Elinor Mae Bowling, 93, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Sunday morning, September 8, 2024, at home.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Friday, September 13, 2024, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, Iowa.  There is no visitation.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Elinor Mae Beaman was born on July 1, 1931 in Bellevue, Iowa, to Ralph and Rebecca (Holstein) Beaman.  She was a 1950 graduate of Bellevue High School.  She married George Bowling on September 12, 1952 at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bellevue, Iowa.  Three children were born to this union, Everett, Thomas, and Kenneth.

Through the years Elinor had worked various jobs, most notably for five years at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa, and for 15 years at Pacific Coast Feather Company in Maquoketa.

Elinor enjoyed crocheting, sewing, gardening, fishing with her husband, reading books, and watching western television shows.

Those left to honor her memory include a son, Everett (Brenda) Bowling of Maquoketa, IA; daughter-in-law, Jeannie Bowling of Maquoketa, IA; 11 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband George on January 17, 2016, sons Kenneth and Thomas, brothers Clarence and Robert Heister, sisters Arlene Fultner and Alice Milne, and a grandson Matthew Bowling.

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

Genevieve Wienen

Colleen Holland Schleicher

Patricia F. Gassman

Patricia F. “Pat” Gassman, age 87, of Dubuque, passed away surrounded by her family at 12:51 p.m., on Friday, September 6, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center.  To honor Pat’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Monday, September 9, 2024, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church, 2921 Central Avenue, with Rev. Steven M. Garner officiating.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum.

Pat was born on February 24, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, to Raymond J. and Remi (Schaul) Gansemer.

Pat graduated from Leo High School in Holy Cross.  She married Marvin Gassman, and they had a daughter together before deciding to part ways.  Pat would later have a son to complete her family.  She was raised with a strong work ethic.  Pat worked with the Department of Human Services for 27 ½ years and at Mt. Carmel for 19 years before enjoying her retirement years.  Pat’s faith was an integral part of her life.  She was a long time member of Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Church and the Catholic Order of Foresters.  In her free time, Pat liked visiting thrift stores, playing Bingo and chatting with people.  She was also an avid reader, and, in her younger days, Pat loved to go dancing.  Pat was a kind person, and she will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Pat’s memory include

2 children,
Carol (Karl) Froisy, Holly Ridge, NC
and Robert (Lisa) Gassman, Dubuque, IA;

6 grandchildren,
Jody Greve, Jillean Harmon, Kevin (Becky Portzen) Carkeek, John Froisy, Noah Gassman, Natalie (Kyle) Leytem;

7 great grandchildren,
Kara, Joseph, Ryleigh, Maddux, Reid, Winston and Leo;

and her siblings,
Mary (Paul) Schmitt, Dubuque, IA,
Evelyn Brimeyer, Bettendorf, IA,
John (Margaret) Gansemer, Dubuque, IA
and Robert (Joan) Gansemer, Dubuque, IA.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents; her former husband, Marvin Gassman; her sister, Ann (Dick) Westhof; a brother-in-law, Ralph Brimeyer; and a special friend, John Kohn.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of 3 North at Stonehill for the excellent care they have provided for Pat these past months.

Greeting cards and memorials in Pat’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Patricia Gassman Family.

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

Paul A. Kelly

Paul A. Kelly, age 74, of Dubuque, passed away at 2:35 a.m., on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at Harmony Dubuque.  To honor Paul’s life private services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting his family.

Paul was born on February 17, 1950, in Sioux City, IA, son of Robert and Betty (Gillis) Taft.

Paul graduated from high school, and after serving in the military was ordained in the Baptist Church in California.  He honorably served his country in both Korea and Vietnam with the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marines.  Paul was self employed for most of his working career.  He worked at Mayflower and helped people move, but his favorite job painting and installing flag poles.  He was always happiest when he was high up in the air working on a new project.  He married Diane Brokus on March 6, 2001, in Dubuque, and they made a wonderful life together.  In his free time, Paul enjoyed shooting pool and going fishing.  He was a great story-teller and loved spending time with his family, especially the grandkids.  Paul’s faith was extremely important to him, and he was a dedicated member of Old Paths Baptist Church.  Paul will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include

his wife,
Diane Kelly, Dubuque, IA;

his children,
Aaron (Amanda) Brokus, Olwein, IA,
Erica (Will) Billington, Clarksville, IA,
Ashley (Kohl) Lee, Indianapolis, IN,
Teasha McManigle, Dubuque, IA
and Cody McManigle, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren,
Lar’iah, Gage, Sophia, Eli, Payton, Kingsley, Ashari, Ashton, Kohlani, Tyra and Trenton;

his children from a previous marriage,
Shane, Nick, Andrew and Becky;

and 3 sisters.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; and 2 brothers, Keith and Kenny.

Paul’s family would like to thank the staff at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, especially Sara; everyone at Tri-State Dialysis; his community at Old Paths Baptist Church; and his special friend from Bingo, Arlo Meiers.  Your care and companionship have meant the world to Paul.

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

Jim Keil

Jim Keil, 74, of Bellevue, passed away on September 6, 2024 in Dubuque, Iowa. A Christian Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 9, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends from 9:00 a.m. until services at the church.  Burial will be in First Presbyterian Church cemetery in Bellevue. 

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

Jim was born on October 14, 1949 in Bellevue and was the son of Alvin and Alverna Keil and the older brother of Joannie (Keil) Kilburg. 

Jim met Barb Reed at a Fourth of July teen dance one glorious evening and from that point forward their lives were forever changed. They began their beautiful marriage and life together shortly thereafter. Jim and Barb raised three children who adored them greatly. 

Jim was an accomplished man. He held an undergraduate degree from the University of Dubuque and a master’s degree from Clarke College. He was an avid outdoorsman spending many days in the field with his good friend, Keith Griebel. He was also a golfer, a cyclist, a boater, an economist, a substitute teacher and even a published author. But above all of those things, he was a husband, a dad, a friend and a grandpa and that’s how he will be remembered. He will also be remembered by how much he loved to make people laugh. 

Those left to honor his memory include his three children, Jennifer Keil, of Dubuque, David (Kristin) Keil, of Arlington Heights and Andrew (Kimberley) Keil, of Bellevue; four grandchildren, Jacob, Rachel, Lauren and Zack; sister Joannie (Dean) Kilburg; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, a charitable memorial fund has been established in Jim’s honor with proceeds going to the Bellevue Area Ducks Unlimited with which Jim was an active committee member. 

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

Rev. David M. McGhee

Reverend David Michael McGhee joined his best friend and wife, Alice, in Heaven on Thursday, September 5, 2024.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Monday, September 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Deacon David will be at 10:30 am on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Church of the Nativity with Father Stephen Audu as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

He was born September 22, 1937, to Anne (Wunderlich) and Clifton McGhee of Center Grove, Iowa. He received an undergraduate degree in psychology from Loras College and completed his graduate degree in education from the University of Iowa. 

David and Alice were married on August 4, 1962, at St Anthony’s Church in Dubuque, Iowa. Upon completing his graduate degree in 1967, David and Alice took their young family to serve as Missionaries in the Bahamas, serving the poor. David strongly believed in walking the talk and modeling his faith to his family and those around him. David tried to live his life by the example set by Jesus. 

David fulfilled his calling to ministry and was ordained to the first class of the Deaconate in 1977. This was only possible with the support of Alice, who stood by his side as he provided comfort for many families in their time of grief and celebrated milestones such as weddings and baptisms. Being stopped at a shopping mall was not uncommon as people shared updates of children that he had baptized or couples that he married. 

David firmly believed in advocating for those that had no voice. This was a tenant of his life which he instilled in his children. He taught special education at the Western Dubuque school district for 26 years until he was asked by Archbishop Kucera to join the Tribal at the Archdiocese of Dubuque. While he was honored for the request, he quickly found that he was better suited for ministry and in 1994, transitioned to being Associate Pastor at Nativity Church in Dubuque where he continued until his retirement in 2018. Throughout his life, David readily stepped up for requests to volunteer and serve others. He spent several years serving on the Mercy Ethics Committee and as a board member at Area Residential Center. He was particularly proud to serve on the board for The Source as the only non-addict and supporter of people struggling with addiction.   

David found joy in visiting with just about everyone he came in contact with. He was a gifted speaker, an excellent listener, and loved hearing how he was able to make a difference in the lives of those he touched. He counseled thousands of people over his years at Nativity and through his volunteer work. He was particularly proud of his Scottish heritage and wore his kilt with family tartan at every opportunity.

David always wore a dove pin on his shirt to share his commitment to peace. Whenever anyone would ask about the pin, he would immediately take it off and give it to the person who asked about it, taking the opportunity to share his message of love. 

David is survived by his daughter Anne of Schenectady NY, Brigid (Tim) Rahlf of Dubuque, and Christopher (Kimberly) of York PA. He had six granddaughters and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Alice, his older brother Johnny, and his older sister, Mary Pickart. 

The family wants to thank all the friends that came to see Dad over the past few years. Your friendship and attention were incredibly important in helping Dad know that he touched lives and made a difference. Finally, we want to thank the staff at Hospice and Stonehill for their care and love of Mom and Dad.

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

James A. Theisen

James A. Theisen, 73, of Asbury, Iowa passed away on September 1, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. Jim passed with his family by his side following complications from a fall.

To celebrate Jim’s life, please join the family at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Road on Saturday, October 19th, 2024. A memorial service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with a gathering for all of Jim’s family and friends to follow until 6:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com. A private family burial was held at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Below is a write-up that Jim’s family found that he had prepared.

It is better to be lucky than good. Those words sum up my life quite well. Starting with being born to great parents, Ray and Doris (Till) Theisen, on April 29, 1951. Being born on mom’s birthday was always a source of great pride. They instilled in me the importance of faith, family and friends. I was blessed to have had them as my parents. My six siblings and I referred to ourselves as the Lucky Seven; those siblings consist of: Judy (Butch) Merritt, Jerry (Karen), Jeff (Trudy), Joe (Lisa), Jay (Jenny) and Jon (Lisa) Theisen. Having our names all begin with the letter “J” was unique at the time. Some of you can maybe recite our names by birth order: Jim, Judy, Jerry, Jeff, Joe, Jay and Jon. It was confusing at times, but it worked.

After graduating from Bellevue Marquette in 1969, my luck reached a new level that summer when I started dating one of my classmates, Pat Gothard. We eventually married on Thanksgiving Day, November 25, 1971. I could not have asked for a better partner in life.

Together we raised three beautiful daughters: Jodi Theisen, Melissa (Eric) Reeves and Amy (Ben) Larson. They and their spouses provided us with six grandchildren: Maggie & Cooper Hooks, Gavin & Lauryn Reeves and Ella & Avery Larson. My family knows how proud I am of them. My hope is that they will continue to take care of each other. I love you all so much.

My life has also been filled with great friends over the years. I won’t single any of you out for fear of omitting and offending anyone. Some of these friendships were from my childhood and school days. These friendships continued as we raised our families. LYLT! Some were formed while working for 38 years at John Deere. Playing baseball, softball and being in several bands throughout my adult years also put me in touch with some great people. I was fortunate enough to have drummed with some very talented musicians. You know who you are and what those times together meant to me. Remember, drummers are musicians, too!

I want to thank God for putting all of you in my life. You helped me to become who I am.  ~ Jim

In addition to those listed above, Jim is also survived by his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law:  Jim (Mary Jo) Gothard, Mary Jo (Roger Gehl) Gothard, Linda (Brent) Rathje, Doug (Teresa) Gothard, Mari Jo (Jerry) Pitts, Steve (Laurie) Gothard, and Terry (Cindy) Gothard. Along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Jim is preceded in death by mother-in-law Marge Gothard, father-in-law Ken Gothard, brother-in-law Curt Gothard, nephew Jeremy Theisen, niece Jessica Theisen, as well as numerous lifelong friends.

In lieu of flowers a Jim Theisen memorial fund will be established.

The family would like to thank Asbury EMS for their quick response; the Emergency doctors, nurses and staff at UnityPoint Health, Finley Hospital, AirCare Emergency Transport, and the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics Surgical Neuroscience ICU for the care and compassion they gave to Jim and his family.  They would especially like to thank all their family and friends for their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.