Obituaries Archive

Robert F. Kruse

Robert F. “Bob” Kruse, age 84, of Cedar Rapids, and formerly of Dubuque, passed away peacefully into the open arms of Jesus, on October 14, 2024, at The Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy surrounded by his loving family.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Jeffrey I. Fieden officiating.  Following cremation, burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery at a later date.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting Bob’s family.

Bob was born on February 24, 1940, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Eugene F. and Edna E. (Fleckenstein) Kruse.

Bob graduated from high school and then served his country in the U.S. Air Force from 1958 until 1965.  He married the love of his life, Constance “Connie” Butler, on April 30, 1966, in Dubuque, and they had 3 children.  He was a hard worker and dedicated his career to the chemical plant in East Dubuque, Illinois.  Bob truly enjoyed his retirement to the fullest.  He traveled extensively and could often be found out on the course at Lacoma Golf Club, whether he was playing a round or doing some groundskeeping.  While in Dubuque, Bob was very active with his community and was a member of Sacred Heart Church and the American Legion Dubuque Post 6.  After moving to Cedar Rapids, Bob worked at Twin Pines Golf Course as a groundskeeper, and joined St. John’s the 23rd Fairfax.  His family was his main priority, and he looked forward to getting together with everyone, especially for family vacations.  Bob was always willing to help someone out if needed.  This is a trait he acquired from his mother, Edna, and sister, Patricia.  Bob will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Bob’s memory include

his wife,
Connie Kruse, Cedar Rapids, IA;

3 children,
Sally (Brian) Hlubek, Cedar Rapids, IA,
John (Melissa) Kruse, Dubuque, IA
and Joseph (Kate) Kruse, Helena, AL;

10 grandchildren,
Ryan (Liz) Kruse, Kelsey (Geoffrey) Kaiser, Alex (Lauren) Kruse, Allie (Swapnil) Gawde, Carly (Noah) Bix, Robby Hlubek, Jake Kruse, Cameron Kruse, Kyle Kruse and Brandon Kruse;

9 great-grandchildren,
Carver, Kai and Jett Kruse, Creighton, Beckett, Ambrose and Dorothy Kaiser and Fintan and Declan Kruse;

a sister,
Patricia “Pat” (Bill) Doerr, Dubuque, IA;

2 sisters-in-law,
Mary Lou (Larry) Feipel
and Marilyn Butler;

a brother-in-law,
Richard (Sandy) Butler;

and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Lindsay Kruse; a nephew, Richard Doerr; a great nephew, Jason French; his brothers-in-law, Tom Butler and Jim (Betty) Butler; and a sister-in-law, Bonnie (Tom) Villhard.

Bob’s family would like to thank the outstanding staff of Mercy ICU in Cedar Rapids, and The Dennis and Donna Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy in Hiawatha, for the kind and compassionate care they provided for Bob and the entire family.

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

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

Robert J. Lynch

Robert J. Lynch, 84, of LaMotte, IA passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Luther Manor  surrounded by his family from dementia.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Key West, IA. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Martin Obeng officiating. Burial will take place at Holy Rosary Cemetery, LaMotte, IA. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

Robert was born June 25, 1940 in Dubuque, IA. He was the oldest of 9 children of Joseph and Marcella (Theisen) Lynch. He married Charlene Pancratz on Sept. 10, 1966 at St Joseph the Prairie Catholic Church. They just celebrated their 58th Wedding Anniversary.

Robert was a hard-working man. He farmed with his family in Otter Creek, IA after his father’s unexpected death in 1964. He worked for many farmers and mill jobs over the years. Robert retired from Addoco Inc in 2010 at the age of 70. His family was his world. He didn’t say much but what he said spoke volumes. He demonstrated a strong work ethic throughout his life and undoubtedly instilled that in all of his children. The kids have many memories of stacking and cutting wood. They learned how to drive a stick in the 1964 GMC truck and helped him work with area farmers in the fields and baling hay. He was proud of his apple trees and garden produce and would share with many neighbors and family. He would even kid his brother-in-law Gary who had the better tomatoes.

Robert taught his kids to appreciate nature and to hunt, fish, and trap.  The family would fish for bullheads at the Maquoketa Dam or take fishing trips to Minnesota with their Grandparents coming along. Robert and Charlene hosted the Fourth of July in LaMotte for many years. Dad would have the coolers all lined up outside on the porch with all the decorations ready. The day always included playing pool, cards, and visiting. At Christmas time, Robert would have Christmas lights hung all over the yard. The kids kidded him they were the Griswold Family!

Robert married the love of his life, Charlene Pancratz on Sept.10, 1966, at St Joseph the Prairie Church. They met at the KC Hall in LaMotte.  Charlene always said Bob swept her off her feet with his smooth dance moves. Together they had 7 children and built a life of love, faith, and family.  Robert had profound hearing loss. In 2013, he received a cochlear implant that changed his life. He could hear his sweet grandchildren’s voices and have conversations that he never had before. We hope you are enjoying feeding the birds, visiting with family, growing the biggest pumpkins, and playing bingo or canasta in heaven. You earned your heavenly reward.

Robert will be greatly missed by his loving family, devoted wife Charlene; children: Loren (Chris) Lynch, Wayne (Lisa) Lynch, Nancy (Ricky) Schilling, Charles (Terri) Lynch, and Gina Lynch. His 9 grandchildren, Jamie (Evan) Dubach, Missy (Keaton) Hermsen, Trever (Cassie) Lynch, Ty Lynch, Charlie Lynch, Dakotah (Sammy) Schilling, Morgan (Mitchell) Pfohl, Ashden (Afton) Schilling, Forrest (Nolan) Smith. His 7 great grandchildren, Mitchel Horkheimer, Aliyah Dubach, Zoey, Nevaeh, and Abbigail Lynch, and Ford and Race Schilling. His sisters, Barbara (Dwain) Kilburg, Janaan (Don) Junk, and Lois Lynch and brother-in-law Dale (MaryJo) Zeimet. His in-laws Emily (Robert) Fisher, Patricia (Jerry) Oberhoffer, and Cindy Pancratz.

Robert is preceded in death by his 2 sons, Justin and Timothy Lynch, in infancy, his parents, his brothers, Richard and Raymond Lynch, his sisters, Arlene (Cletus) Engelken, Diane Lynch, and RoseMary Zeimet. His in laws Charles and Dorothy Pancratz,  brother in law Gary Pancratz, and son in law Joseph Sullivan.

The Lynch Family would like to thank the Luther Manor Memory Care Unit, Hospice of Dubuque, Dr Benjamin Kumor, Leonard Funeral Home, and Rev. Martin Obeng. We greatly appreciate all your kindness and care for Robert. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the family.

William S. Kenyon

William Scot Kenyon, 68, of Bettendorf, passed away peacefully on October 13 in his home, tenderly cared for by his wife and daughters.

A memorial gathering to celebrate his life will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 19 at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home in Bettendorf.  An additional celebration of his life will be held in Dubuque at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family.

He was born in Dubuque to William T. Kenyon and Katherine Porter Kenyon. In 1976, he married Karen Mayberry, his devoted wife of 48 years, at Nativity Church.
Scot was a skilled sheet metal worker, a proud member of the Union Sheet Metal Workers Local 91.

An outdoorsman at heart, Scot cherished time spent camping, riding his ATVs, kayaking, fishing and canoeing.

He was also a passionate music lover and a member of the Mississippi Valley Blues Society. Music flowed through his veins, whether playing his guitar or attending blues festivals with those he loved.

Skippy’s memory will forever be cherished by his beloved wife, Karen; his daughters, Nicolette Ann (Ted Spracklin) Kenyon. Darcie Lynn Kenyon. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Taylor Neofotist, Aiden Neofotist, Cora Barton, and Porter Albracht; his sisters, Jill (Ray) Gassman and Rebecca Kenyon; and his nieces and nephews, Emily (Andy Kelly) Lindecker, Caleb (Kerry) Bechen, Hannah Gassman, Derek Gassman, Kayla Kenyon, Douglas Spratt. Luke Griebel. Brothers and sisters in law: Gary (Nancy) Mayberry, Greg Mayberry, Rhonda (Dave) Mayberry, Brain Mayberry, Norman Mayberry, Kevin (Patty) Mayberry, Marvin (Karen), Lisa (Ethan) Bolte, Luan (Jeff) Scott.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Kimberly Kenyon and Douglas Kenyon; and his nephew, Steven Kenyon Gassman.
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting Scot’s obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.

Kathleen M. Furlong

Kathleen “Dolly” May Furlong, 94, of Galena, IL, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Mercy One Hospital, Dubuque, IA. A funeral mass will be held at 11 AM, Monday, October 21, 2024, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, where friends may call after 10:30 AM at the church until the time of mass. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena. A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2024, from 2 to 4 PM at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena.

Michael J. Knipper

Michael J. Knipper, 53, of Earlville, Iowa passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024, at home surrounded by his loved ones after a short battle with pancreatic cancer leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and community spirit that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 9 to 10 a.m. at Kramer Funeral Home prior to funeral mass.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, October 17, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Earlville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Chris Podhajsky will officiate, and Deacon Jim Steger will assist.

Michael was born on October 21, 1970, in Manchester, Iowa, the son of James and Bonnie (Helle) Knipper.  He grew up with a deep love for the land, learning the values of patience and hard work on the family farm.  He carried on that tradition working with his family on that farm until the end.  His hands were calloused from years of honest work, and his heart was full of pride for the crops he nurtured and the animals he cared for.

More than just a farmer, Mike was a devoted husband and father. He married Becky Greenwood on November 21, 1998, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.  Of that union, three children were born.  His family was his greatest joy.  He enjoyed attending their school events and could often be heard yelling the loudest on the sideline or in the stands.  He loved a good game of cards with friends, spending a weekend at deer camp, or watching the Cowboys on a quiet Sunday afternoon.

Though his time with us was too short, the impact of Mike’s life will endure in the hearts of his family and friends.  His devotion to his family, his love of farming, and his unwavering strength will continue to inspire those who were blessed to know him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Becky, his children, Allison (Justin Krapfl), Erin, and Dylan Knipper, all of Earlville, his mother, Bonnie Knipper of Earlville, his siblings, Angie (Dan) Ries, Peggy (Joe) Hildebrand, all of Manchester, Pete (Amanda) Knipper, Luke (Dawn) Knipper, all of Earlville, his in-laws, Dennis (Sue) Greenwood of Dyersville, Deb (Joe) Pins of Earlville, and Chris Greenwood of Farley, and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Knipper, his grandparents, Laverne and Alice Knipper and Marvin and Olga Helle, a niece, Karli Rose Hoeger, a nephew, Reece James Knipper, and his parents-in-law, Raymond and Verna Greenwood.

The Knipper family would like to thank Dyersville Family Practice, Medical Associates Clinic and MercyOne Hospital of Dubuque, MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center, and Hospice of Dubuque for all the compassionate care and support they received throughout Mike’s illness.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.

Jessie Khatri

Jessie Khatri, 28, of Dubuque, died Friday, October 11, 2024, at her home in Dubuque.

A Celebration of Jessie’s Life will be held at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 at Bridge Christian Church, Dubuque.

Jessie was born on July 2, 1996, in Sibley, IA, the daughter of David and Cheryl “Cherie” (Manning) Dirks. On October 27, 2017, she married Shashi Khatri in Sioux Falls, SD.

Jessie graduated from Dirks Prairie Academy, Dubuque, in 2014. She went on to attend Southwest Minnesota State University where she took classes in the Culinary & Hospitality Management Program.

Jessie had a passion for cooking, which she did for the past eight years at restaurants in Minnesota and locally at Brazen and Old Chicago. Besides her passion for cooking, in her free time Jessie enjoyed the Lord of the Rings books and movies, reading, and watching crime documentaries. She was so proud of being an Aunt and loved her nieces and nephews greatly. Jessie also loved cats, rabbits, and caring for others, among other pursuits.

Survivors include her husband, Shashi Khatri; her father, David Dirks of Dubuque; her son, Gabriel Guentzel of Mankato, MN; her siblings, Nichole Dirks of Dubuque; Andrew (Lacey) Dirks of Brainerd, MN; Jonny (Hannah) Dirks of Dubuque; and Annie (Elliot) Schwarze of Decatur, MI; six nieces and nephews, Irene, Timmy, Isaac, and Lydia Schwarze; and Bruin and Elias Dirks; and two grandmothers, Irene Manning and Marybeth Wordelman.

Jessie was preceded in death by her mom, Cherie; her grandfathers, Kenneth Manning and Lawrence Dirks; and one nephew, Kenneth Schwarze.

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Jessie’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Duanne M. Pins

Duanne M. Pins, 88, of Epworth, Iowa, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Monday, October 14, 2024, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation for Duanne will be held from 2 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 7 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home.

Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will follow in St. Clement Cemetery in Bankston.

Duanne was born on August 16, 1936, in Graf, Iowa, daughter of Albert and Philomena (Graf) Neyen.  She received her education from St. Clements Catholic School in Bankston.  On November 13, 1956, she was united in marriage to Ambrose Pins at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston.

She was a member of the St. Clement Parish in Bankston, and the Altar and Rosary Society.

She was a great cook and baker, loved cake decorating and took great pride in all the baking and sewing she did for her family, friends and the community.  She was kind and was always there to help everyone.  She was the best baby sitter because the grandchildren loved her cookies. She always helped on the farm, from milking cows by hand to feeding animals. There was nothing she could not do.

Those left to cherish her memory are her husband of 67 years, Ambrose Pins of Epworth; seven children, Beverly (Ken) Kotz of Epworth, Jerry (Nancy) Pins of Peosta, Sharon (Larry) Hosch of Epworth, Doris (Randy) McAllister of Earlville, Ellen Volz of Cedar Rapids, Paul (Becky) Pins of Bankston, and Karen (Donnie) Hosch of Epworth; 19 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren and another on the way; brothers and sisters-in-law, Donna Neyen-Shea of Dubuque, Jean Ann Neyen of Farley, Clement Pins of Epworth, Mary Jane Kluesner and Eileen Pins both of Dubuque, and Ann Johnson of Sherill; and several nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, Beverly Drees, Shirley Ahmann, and Carol Neyen; four brothers, William, Gary, Robert, and Albert “Butch” Neyen; father and mother-in-law, Emil and Kathryn (Muller) Pins; brothers and sisters-in-law, Sylvester (Rosemary) Pins, Jim Ahmann, Francis Kluesner, Merlin Johnson, Germain “Jerry” Pins, Jerry Drees, and Elizabeth “Betty” Pins.

A Tribute Video may be viewed and online condolances may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family of Duanne would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff of Bethany Home for all the care, kindness and support given to Duanne and our family.

Allen M. Bahl

Allen “Al” Michael Bahl, 84, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on October 11, 2024, at home. Although his passing was unexpected, he peacefully passed into the Lord’s hands.

Friends and family may visit from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday October 16, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, with a Wake Service starting at 6:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday October 17, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Rev. Jeffrey Frieden officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Al was born on July 12, 1940, on the family farm, in Rickardsville, Iowa, son of Frank H. and Hilda M. (Maiers) Bahl. He went to Rickardsville school through 8th grade, then left school to work on the family farm.

He served as a SFC cook in the Army Reserves from 1960-1967.

Al began his career working at the Dubuque Packing Company until its closure. During that time, he was self-taught in the refrigeration business which led him to starting Al’s Refrigeration Company in the early 1980’s – which he ran up until his retirement.

He was an avid Chicago Cubs, Minnesota Vikings, and Iowa Hawkeye fan. He was a family man that enjoyed their yearly Minnesota fishing trip, camping, and time on the river. He was active in his grandchildren’s lives.

Al is survived by his children Shawn (Mark) Brockman, Carrie (Steve Vedner) Miller, and Brain (Amy) Bahl; grandchildren Michael (Abbey) Bahl, Breanne Morgan, Leah Kroeger, Collin Malin, Austin (Katlyn) Schwendinger, Carli and Sophi Hulsizer; and 8 great-grandchildren; siblings John “Jack” Bahl, Keith (Jane) Bahl, and Mary Lou Baal, several nieces and nephews, and the mother of his children Doris Frost.

He is preceded in death by his parents Frank and Hilda, sister-in-law Arlene Bahl, brother-in-law James Baal, nephews Randy Bahl and Jami Baal.

In lieu of flowers, an Al Bahl memorial fund has been established.

Alberta M. Trebian

Alberta M. Trebian, 93, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully Thursday, October 10, 2024, at Midwest Senior Care Community, Galena.  A funeral service will be held at noon on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may call after 10 AM until the time of service. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Galena.

She was born in Galena on June 24, 1931, the daughter of Charles and Agnes (Flynn) Staver. She was united in marriage to Duane M. Trebian on October 2, 1954, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Galena, and he preceded her in death on December 20, 2009. She devoted her life to loving, caring, and providing for her family and the many residents she cared for throughout her dedicated career as a Nurse’s Aide at the Galena Nursing Home.

She was an avid crocheter throughout her life and enjoyed playing bingo and euchre with her cherished friends at AHVA Assisted Living and Midwest  Senior Care Community.

She is survived by her six children, Dennis (Alice) Trebian of Hanover, IL; Bernard (Carolyn) Trebian of Galena, IL; Helene Trebian (Ron Vanderheyden) of Stockton, IL; Rose (Byron) Chumbler of Warren, IL; Carol Trebian (Debra Frost), of Elizabeth; and Allen (Tammy) Trebian of Hanover; eighteen grandchildren; and twenty great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and sister-in-law Phyllis Staver, Darlington WI.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, a son, Carl; two grandchildren, Skyler and Andrew and two brothers, Charles (St. Lo, France WWII) and Joseph; four sisters, Marita Tippett; Helen Kitto; Rose Petitgout, and Mary Hoftender, three brothers-in-law, Roudell, Harvey and Barney, and sister-in-law, Margie Blackbourn.

The family would like to thank Dr. Koenigs and the staff for their outstanding care, compassion, and respect over the many years of caring for our mother. The family also would like to thank the nursing staff at AHVA Assisted Living, East Dubuque, and Midwest Senior Care Community for the care, respect, compassion, and stories shared while our mother was in your care.

Online condolences may be left atwww.furlongfuneralchapel.com

John D. Tracey

John D. Tracey, 89, of Riverbend Retirement Community and formerly of Epworth, Iowa, passed away on Friday, October 11, 2024, at Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa surrounded by his family.

Friends and relatives of John may call from 10 to noon, Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa where services for John will be held at 12:30 p.m., in Farley, Iowa with Rev. Michael Schueller officiating.  Assisting Deacon will be Joe Schockemoehl.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Amvets Post #13.  The Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa is assisting the family.,

He was born October 6, 1935, in Farley, Iowa, son of Hugh and Irene (Becker) Tracey. He is a graduate of St. Joseph’s High School in Farley, Iowa.  He then attended a Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa, and later received his Graduate degree from Buena Vista University.  He owned and operated the restaurant “The End Gate” in Worthington, Iowa while in college.

On May 17, 1958 he was united in marriage to Elaine Weydert at St. John the Baptist in Peosta, Iowa.

John ran the family farm for three years.  He was then employed at General Motors Diesel Division in Chicago, IL and Atlanta, GA.  He was later employed as the Instructor and coordinator of instruction at the Advances Technology Center in Indian Hills in Ottumwa, Iowa.

He is a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army for two years.  He was a member of Amvets Post #13 of Epworth, Iowa, a member of the Farley Knights of Columbus Council #2001, a member of the 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573 of Dubuque, and a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.

John was quite quick witted, he always loved to entertain and was the life of the party.  He lived by his motto it was never too early for a whiskey.  He loved his grandchildren immensely…when they were with grandpa there were no rules.  Oh, you want to color on the roof, “grandpa will go get the ladder”.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Tracey, of Cascade, IA; three children, Patrick (Vickie) Tracey of Dyersville, IA, Michael (Debbie) Tracey of Roselle, IL, and Colleen (Chris Dean) Sincox of Cedar Rapids, IA; one daughter-in-law, Denise Tracey of Worthington, IA; 14 grandchildren; 5 great grandchildren; 3 step-grandchildren; one sister, Margie (Dick) Phillips of Austin, TX; one sister-in-law, Fay Tracey, and one brother-in-law, Fritz Fuhs of Tampa, FL.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Terry Tracey, his son-in-law, Steve Sincox; one grandchild, Nathan Tracey; his sister, Carol Fuhs and his brother, Jim Tracey.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family would like to thank the staff of Riverbend Retirement Community, the Cascade Ambulance and the staff of Unity Point Finley Hospital.

Walter M. Hodge

Walter M. “Butch” Hodge, 83, of Dubuque, passed away Friday, October 11, 2024, at MercyOne Medical Center.

Butch’s family will host a celebration gathering from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15, at The Lodge at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club, where Butch was a life-long member and avid golfer. Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements. Private burial will be at Linwood Cemetery.

Butch was born September 27, 1941 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Walter J. and Marjorie (Marsden) Hodge. He married Beverly Rae Smith on June 2, 1962. She preceded him in death on January 13, 2004.

As the second-generation owner of HODGE, Butch led the company from 1978 to 2003, guiding it from a modest beginning with just ten team members and laying the foundation for growth.

HODGE was founded in 1958 by Butch’s father, Walter J., and it saw tremendous growth under the leadership of Butch and his late wife, Bev. Their commitment to putting employees first and supporting the community – through both good times and challenging ones – left an indelible mark.  This legacy of philanthropy is one that Butch instilled in his three sons, who have, in turn, passed it on to the fourth generation. Butch’s leadership was characterized by an eagerness to grow and evolve the business. Under his guidance and in collaboration with his sons Tim and Mike, HODGE not only supported Dubuque Pack but also became a key supplier for John Deere.

Reflecting on Butch’s leadership, long-time team member Ding Bell recalls, “Butch was pretty laid back, but he always wanted to get the work done. He was a good listener and treated people fairly. He was great to work with.”

Butch also saw potential where others might not have. His ability to connect with people, whether during a game of golf or in the warehouse, built lasting relationships.

Butch is survived by his partner of 18 years, Karen Jertson and her family; three sons, Tim (Connie) Hodge, Mike (Annette Hall) Hodge, all of Dubuque, and Lt. Col. (Ret.) Matt (Karee) Hodge, of Eldridge, IA; his grandchildren, Zach (Laura) Hodge, Jordan (Michael) Fullan, Lucas Hodge, Jacob (Hannah Kilburg) Hodge, Katelyn (Mitchel) McDermott, Grant Hodge, and Anna Hodge; his great grandchildren (who referred to him as “Grandpa the Great”), Oliver and Eben Hodge, and Maverick and Finley Fullan; and his sister, Rita Hodge, of Dubuque.

In addition to his wife, Butch was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Suzanne O’Brien; and his brother, Steve Hodge.

Butch’s family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at MercyOne and Medical Associates for their care of Butch.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be made to the Beverly R. Hodge Fund for Dubuque Public Schools (CLICK HERE or linked in his obituary on the funeral home website).

Butch taught his sons to play by three rules: 1. Tuck In Your Shirt, 2. Play Fast,  3. Count ‘Em All.

Candace J. Schaefer

Candace JoAnn “Candy” Schaefer, age 72, of Asbury, IA, died on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at home after a short battle with Carcinosarcoma Cancer.

Candy was born on January 26, 1952 in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of William and Audrey (Theisen) Schaefer.

Candy is a graduate of Wahlert High School and St. Anthony’s School of Nursing in Rock Island, IL. Her career was spent in NICU and Pediatrics up until her retirement. Her greatest pleasures were her family, friends, and fur babies (Poppy and Nell).

She is survived by her two children, Nathan Elder and Alesha (Don) Barklow; her two grandsons, Ty and Easten and three step-granddaughters, Maddie, Sam, and Ali; her mother, Audrey Schaefer and siblings: Chris (Jim) Kirk, Bill (Jackie) Schaefer, Diane (Mike) Covol, Deb (Bill) Brandt, Patty (Pat) Barry, Peggy (Scott) Cosley, Mark Schaefer, Lisa (Kevin) Smith, Scott (Tammie) Schaefer, Leslie (Greg) Hayden, Mike Schaefer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her father William Schaefer, sister Jill Schaefer and brother-in-law “Willie” Mark Wilson.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Emily Hill, Dr. Eric Engelman and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dubuque Humane Society, Hospice of Dubuque, or her family.

There will be a graveside service for family and friends at the East Dubuque, IL. Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15th with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating, with a celebration of life to follow.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

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

Verlyn F. Schmitt

Verlyn Francis Schmitt, aka “Schmitty,” “Fat,” and “The Gambler,” cashed in his chips at the poker table of this earth on October 10, 2024.

He lived a long and colorful life, born in 1928 as the ninth of twelve children to Frank and Mary Schmitt, in Rickardsville, Iowa.  He taught himself to read with the Li’l Abner comics in the newspaper.  Saw his first automobile at five years old.  At nine, he took a daring joy ride, and his lifelong love of cars was born.  He married Blanche Borden in 1949, was married for 37 years, and raised eight children.  He farmed in Bankston and Graf for many years.  With just a fifth-grade education, he could do algebra in his head.  This gift served him well when he gambled professionally in the second half of his life.  He set records in the game of euchre, played in the World Series of Poker, and has been mentioned in several published books about card playing.  Schmitty was also a good dancer and baseball player in his youth.  He loved guns and was a crack shot.  Schmitty may have kept the chocolate milk industry alive with his three-gallon-per-week habit.  He was a big fan of Johnny Cash, Willy Nelson, and classic country music.  He produced homemade wine from the fruits in his garden.  He loved horses and dogs.  After seeing a rodeo cowboy stand upright atop a horse at full gallop, he taught himself to do the same.  He was a proficient, self-taught leather artist, creating hundreds of bracelets and watch bands and customizing his cherished saddle.  His interests, beyond games of skill, were astronomy, Native American and cowboy culture, and history.  He was an adventurous learner.  A self-made man, Schmitty was comfortable in his own skin and never tried to be anything but what he was.

Schmitty was preceded in death by his parents, Francis Schmitt and Mary (Weidemann) Schmitt, siblings Marie (Kelly) Even, Evelyn (Elmer) Lucas, Leo Schmitt, Geneva (Charles) Arlen, Selena (Dale) Waters, Jerome (Josephine) Schmitt, LaVern (Lillian) Schmitt, Eldon (Joan) Schmitt, Luella (Virgil) Hammerand, and Doris Schmitt, and a son, Steve (Mary) Schmitt; many horses and dogs, including his beloved “Pal.”  He leaves one sibling, Arnita (Bob) Erickson, seven children, Reggie (Suzie), Tom (Diane), Peggy (Sam), Brenda, David, Penny (Wally), and Tim (Michelle), seventeen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren, and hundreds of nieces, nephews, friends, and cardplayers.

Funeral mass will be 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 19, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue, Iowa.  Family will greet friends 9:00 a.m. to mass time at the church.  A luncheon at Horizon Hall will follow.

We release Schmitty, not just to heaven, but also back to his first and enduring love–the land.

Robert L. Yeager

Robert L. “Bob” Yeager, 87, of Bellevue, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

A Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will take place from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, with an additional visitation at the funeral home from 9:30 am to 10:30 am prior to the Mass. Burial will follow at St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery.

Born on June 4, 1937, Bob was the son of Lester and Ottilia (Haiar) Yeager. He graduated from St. Joseph’s High School in 1955 before pursuing mechanic training in Kansas City. His career included working for Achen Motors and Goetz’s, and in 1985, he purchased the old DX station and opened Bob’s Service Center, where he proudly served the community until his retirement. Even in retirement, his passion for mechanics never faded, as he continued to repair small engines from his home for many years.

A devoted member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Bob’s faith and kindness were central to who he was. He was known for his generosity, always ready to lend a hand or offer a quick fix for friends and neighbors. Bob cherished every moment spent with his family and friends, sharing countless adventures in fishing, hunting, and flying—creating memories that will be treasured forever. He took great joy in hosting gatherings, whether it was a fish fry, a lively game of cards, or taking his grandchildren fishing on the river. His passion for building and flying radio-controlled planes was a source of happiness, especially during his beloved Wednesday night meetups with friends.

Bob married Judy E. Roe-Culver on October 12, 1996, and their love was a constant source of joy until her passing on January 21, 2020.

He is survived by his children, Jason (Makaela O’Donnell) Yeager and Casey (Johannah) Yeager; step-children Greg (Etta) Culver, Gary (Joyce) Culver, and Kristie (Kevin Scholtes) Culver; grandchildren Ethan, Nicole (Graham), Sarah (Zayne), Ava, Katie (James), Marie (Ryan), Bobbie Jo (Mike), Robyn (Matt), Devon (Raven), and Brendon; 9 great-grandchildren; his sister, Joan Kerns, and his beloved nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Judy, and his brother-in-law, Thomas Kerns.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Bob’s memory.

Bob will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His kind heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering support for his family and friends will forever be remembered. We want to thank all of the staff from MercyOne Cancer Center, Medical Associates, and all of Bob’s wonderful friends and neighbors for their support and care.

Janet M. Alcorn

Janet M. (Galle) Alcorn, 47, of Clarksville, Tennessee, formerly of Dubuque passed away on Friday September 27, 2024, after a yearlong battle with cancer. 

Private family burial will be held at Dubuque Memorial Gardens. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa assisted the family with local arrangements.  

Janet was born on March 30, 1977, in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, daughter of Donald and Debra Galle of Dubuque, Iowa.

She is survived by her two daughters Emma Hayes and Avah Alcorn; her parents Don and Deb Galle of Dubuque; two brothers Brian (Amber) Galle, and Matthew Galle both of Dubuque. 

Memorials in Janet’s memory may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.