Obituaries Archive

Patrick J. Hosier

Patrick J. Hosier, age 73, of Ripon, WI, formerly of Dubuque, IA, passed away after a brief illness on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at Ripon Community Hospital in Ripon, WI surrounded by his family. Pat was born on August 2, 1950 in Dubuque, IA; the son of John and Margaret (Horan) Hosier. He graduated from Wahlert High School in Dubuque, IA. He retired from the United States Postal Service.

Pat enjoyed hunting and collecting guns. He loved spending time with his grandkids, going to movies, and watching the Hawkeyes and Green Bay Packers. He was proud to introduce each of his kids to cave inn’s at The Mining Company.

Pat is survived by 4 children: Danielle (Chris) Kerper, Jessica Hosier, Maggie (Tyler) Bly, and Chris (Megan) Hosier; grandchildren: Elisabeth and Alexander Kerper, and Morgan Kass; mother: Margaret Hosier; significant other, Linda Gatzke; 3 brothers; 3 sisters; many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his father, John Hosier; and maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family will be having a private service at a later date. Divine Passage Funeral Home in Ripon, WI is proudly serving the Hosier family. Divinepassagefunerals.com

A special thank you extended to favorite Aunt Diane and all the nurses and doctors at Ripon Community Hospital for their care. Memorials for the family may be sent to Danielle Kerper, 2005 Timber Ridge Drive SE, Dyersville, IA, 52040.

Pat always said, “you’ll read about me in the newspaper. Here it is!”

Winston A. Schaber

Winston Arnold Schaber, 87, of Galena, IL, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A Masonic service will be held graveside at 11 AM, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena. Military honors will be accorded by Galena VFW

Post #2665 and American Legion Post #193. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family. He was born in Galena on March 13, 1937, the son of Arnold and Ethel (Lewis) Schaber. Winston graduated from Galena High School in 1955. He served in the United States Air Force from 1955 until his honorable discharge in 1959. Winston married Carol Tomlinson on August 25, 1963, in Elizabeth, IL, and she survives. Winston’s one true love was farming in Woodbine and Vinegar Hill. He also worked at Chestnut Mountain, Greenwood Cemetery, and Blueberry Cottage. He was a fifty-year member of the Masonic Order.

Winston is survived by his wife, Carol; one son, Andy; a granddaughter, Abigail; a sister, Lenora Bowen; and his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a son in infancy, his in-laws, Roy and Esther Tomlinson, and his aunt and uncle, Harlan and Adeline Bertch.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Ella Tigges

It is with broken hearts that the family of Ella “Pat” Tigges announce her unexpected passing at home, surrounded by her family and loved ones on Tuesday July 30th, 2024.

Please join Pat’s family in a celebration of her life with a visitation on Thursday, August 1st from 9:00 -10:45 am at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Joseph Key West Church directly following the visitation at 11:00 am with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Pat was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, who was always there when we needed her the most, offering support, wisdom, and love in abundance. It has always been Pat’s wish for her family and friends to be kind and care for others and she emulated this in her daily life.

Pat’s interests included family gatherings and being present at grandchildren’s events. She was an avid reader, enjoyed walking, playing cards, and meeting friends for lunch or coffee. She also enjoyed traveling with her husband Bob. Pat was a longtime volunteer at Mercy Hospital as a eucharistic minister. She most recently volunteered her time at the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. She was also a 60 year member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, and belonged to Catholic Daughters of America.

Pat will be forever missed by her beloved husband of 62 years Robert Tigges. Three children Michael (Aletha) Tigges, Maureen (Rob) Kemp, and Robert M. Tigges. Eleven grandchildren Caitlin (Jonathan) Carroll, Leith (Sam) Tigges, Drake Tigges, Justine (Wes) Dunn, Megan Nemmers, Gage and Paige Kemp, Sarah, Alec, Evan, and Kate Tigges. Siblings Edward Kunkel, Judy Budden (Don) Takes, Randy (Kim) Kunkel, in-laws George Schuster, Jean Kunkel, and Harold Kruser, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Pat is preceded in death by her daughter Michele Knief-Nemmers, son-in-law Timothy Nemmers. Parents Martin and Mildred Kunkel. Siblings Earl (Nancy) Kunkel, Joanne Kruser, Marlene Schuster, Martin Kunkel, and Jolene (Bill) Busch.

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Catholic Daughters of America or St. Joseph Key West Church.

Mary E. Crimmins

Mary E. “Sugar” Crimmins, 100, of Dubuque, died Monday, July 29, 2024, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, August 2, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mary will be 10:30 am Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mary was born October 12, 1923, in Petersburg, IA, the daughter of Mathias J. and Julia A. Kerper Osterhaus. On December 27, 1952, Mary and Ralph J. Crimmins were married by Msgr. Michael Kerper at Church of the Nativity in Dubuque. Ralph passed away on September 7, 2004.

She was a 1941 graduate of Visitation Academy in Dubuque

As a young woman, Mary held several jobs, including at Dubuque and Fire Marine Insurance, JP Shoe Company, where she contributed to the WWII effort by making shoes for the Navy, Julien Dubuque Bridge toll office as a toll taker, and as a cashier at Medical Associates. After starting her family, she dedicated herself to being a full-time mother. Once her children were grown and out of the house, she worked for 13 years as a cashier at Dubuque Community Schools.

She was a devoted 100-year member of the Church of the Nativity and a member of the church’s Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Catholic Daughters of America, the Catholic Mother’s Study Club, and the “Over 60” Club. Mary enjoyed crocheting, baking birthday cakes, spending summers at Lake Delhi and Spruce Creek, the annual family vacations, and celebrating holiday gatherings. She was a fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bulls.

Survivors include three sons, Thomas (Susan) Crimmins of North Liberty, IA, David (Nancy) Crimmins of Bellevue, IA, Paul (Janice) Crimmins of Geneva, IL; three daughters, Barbara (Karl) Riotte of Springfield, VT, Patrica (James) Sands of Dubuque, and Ellen (Thomas) Hunt of Dubuque; 18 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and her life-long best friend, Mary Agnes Kretchmer Meyer.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one daughter-in-law, Debbie Crimmins, one brother, Ken (Catherine) Osterhaus, three sisters-in-law, Mildred (Harold) Klosterman, Mary (Norb) Leick, Anna May (Edward) Hildebrand, and one brother-in-law, William (Mary) Crimmins.

Her family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. John Whalen and his nurse, Sara, as well as Dr. Kirkendall, for the exceptional care they provided to Mary throughout her long life.

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

Loren N. Reisen

Loren N. Reisen, 83, of Bellevue, formerly of Dubuque, died Monday, July 29, 2024, at his home.

There will be no visitation or services.

Loren was born March 27, 1941, in Dubuque, the son of George Albert and Gladys Pearl Cushman Reisen. On May 9, 1969, he married Patricia Ann Phillips in Galena, IL.

He was a 1960 graduate of Dubuque Senior High School.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Vietnam War from 1966 until 1968.

Loren retired from John Deere Dubuque Works.

He loved watching sports and spending time with his dog, Murphy.

Survivors include his wife, Patricia; two daughters, Traci Reisen of Bellevue, and Brenda Luensmann of Dubuque; two grandsons, David (Carrie) Luensmann and Andrew Luensmann; three great-grandchildren, Joey, Marcus, and Xander; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Ronald Jentz in 2008, two brothers, Milton “Mickey” (Alma) Reisen and Keith (Ronilla) Reisen, one sister, Norma (Bob) Grass; in-laws, Edmund (Linda) Phillips, and Carol (Ed) Roling.

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

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

Kelly A. McQuistion

Kelly A. McQuistion, 60, of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 29, 2024.  Funeral Mass will be 10:30 am, Monday, August 5, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue.  Family will greet friends 9:30 am until Mass at the church.  Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue. Local arrangements entrusted at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue.

Kelly was born April 1st, 1964 to Vernon McQuistion and Shirley Ambrosy. Her father, Vernon passed away a few months after Kelly’s birth. She was raised with her mother and step-father, Ronald Black, which she called him Dad, we had no “STEPS” in our house. Kelly was a 1983 graduate of Bellevue High School. She was very active in sports during her time in school, her nickname was “KC”.  After graduation, Kelly became a Nanny for several families across the United States before returning to Iowa. She later attended college in Iowa City and received her Early Childhood Development Certification. She stayed in Iowa City after graduating college.

When her health took a turn, she moved back to Bellevue, to be closer to family. Kelly’s world revolved around her fur baby Missy, along with her nieces and nephews. Kelly would always try to be at the kid’s games, no matter where they were and it didn’t matter what sport they were involved in. Kelly was their biggest fan! Kelly was an avid Iowa Hawkeye Fan and Chicago Cubs fan.

Kelly will be deeply missed by all who knew her!  The streets of Bellevue will never be the same without her.

Survivors include Todd McQuistion, Rhonda (Joey) Klein, Sandy Hansen, nieces and nephews, Nick (Kindal) Klein, Ronnie (Taylor) Klein, Elizabeth (Matthew) Ehlers, and great nieces and nephews, Christopher (Madison), Caitlyn, Cadence, Rylee, Addison, Ronald and a great-great nephew, Christian, several aunts, uncles and cousins, and her special friends Julie Furne of Bellevue and Nicole Tunsil of Florida.

Kelly is preceded in death by her parents, grandparents Leo and Leola Ambrosy, Charles and Vi McQuistion and Floyd and Belle Black.

The family would like to Thank the People of Bellevue for always being kind to Kelly while out on her daily walks. Bless you all!

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

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

Donna M. Grawe

Donna M. Grawe, 97, of Cascade, and formerly of Dyersville, Iowa passed away Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Accura Healthcare in Cascade.   

A visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Funeral Service will commence at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, Aug 3, 2024, with burial to follow at St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville. Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Donna was born July 4, 1927 in Dyersville, Iowa, daughter of Robert “Harry” and Anna Kelly.  She graduated from Xavier High School in 1945.  Donna married Milton Grawe on June 15, 1950 in Dyersville, Iowa.  He preceded her in death in 2000.  She was a member of St. Francis Xavier Parish.  Donna was employed at the former Koelker Implement in Dyersville for 20 years.  She enjoyed golf, bowling and was an avid reader.  She was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.  In 1016, Donna moved to Riverbend Retirement Home in Cascade.

Survivors include her daughter, Jane Johnson of Cedar Rapids; grandchildren: Jared (Abbey) Johnson and Candace (Micha) Mims of Cedar Rapids; great grandchild, Maci Johnson; a special nephew, James (Marge) Grawe of Marion, along with a nephew and two nieces of Decatur, IN.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Milt; sister, June (Kelly) McIntosh of Decatur, IN; two sisters-in-law and three brothers-in-law.

Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at www.kramerfuneral.com.  Memorials may be sent to the family, (in care of Kramer Funeral Home) 750 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040

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Merlin J. Duehr Jr.

Merlin “Merle” Joseph Duehr Jr., 71 passed away unexpectedly Saturday, July 27th.  Private family services were held.  Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street is assisting the family.

Born in Dubuque, on February 2nd 1953 to Anna (Barnhart) and Merlin J. Duehr Sr. Merle graduated from Senior High School in 1970, but he was already working for Flexsteel before his graduation date. After a 20 year stretch working in the plant and stewarding the union, Merle was elected Business Representative of the Steelworkers Union Local #1861. During this time Merle also served on the Board of Directors for multiple endeavors including Sunnycrest Manor, Dubuque Red Cross, Dubuque United Way, and the Steelworkers Pension Trust. At the end of his term with local #1861, Merle was appointed Chairman of the Board of the Steelworkers pension trust for the remaining of his long and esteemed career, which was very much a climb to the highest level of the ladder in which he worked.

As a career driven, and hard worker, Merle also had a few hobbies which included riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle to Bike Week in Myrtle Beach or to the annual Sturgis bike fest. Up until recently he still was an avid rider, and his saying “You don’t stop riding because you get old. You get old because you stop riding”, which was etched into his right forearm. Merle also liked working on his home, which he took meticulous care of. On November 29th, 1999, Merle was united in holy matrimony with Margie (Weber) in Key West, Florida. Merle and Margie spent the last 25 years together working, traveling and spending time with their grandchildren, which were the light of his life. The love and life they lived will be remembered for generations to come.

Surviving are his wife Margie, four (4) step children, Michelle (Brian) Coulthard, Aaron (Kim) Matthews, Jenni McCann, John (Lisa) McCann III, special grandson, Phillip (Ellesha) Breitbach, eight (8) grandchildren, John McCann IV, Brooklyn (Austin) Udelhofen, Brett (Alicia), Brady and Brandon Coulthard, Isabelle, Evan and Kristopher Matthews, a great grandchild on the way, a brother, 3 nephews, his favorite niece, a great nephew and many friends.

Merle is preceded in death by his parents, his in laws, and his sister Wanda.

Merle’s family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill for their patience and the wonderful care they provided for Merle.

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

Susan H. Crowe

Susan “Sue” H. Crowe, 97, of Dubuque passed away July 26, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 3, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Chapel at Mount Olivet Cemetery 10556 Military Rd. Dubuque, IA. 52003, with Charles Tharp officiating and inurnment to follow. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, is assisting the family.

Sue was born May 8, 1927, in Prairie Du Chien, WI, to Samuel and Frances (Paczynski) Hunt. After graduating high school from Besmer, MI, in 1945, the family moved to Dubuque, Iowa.

She was proud of being Dubuque’s first meter maid, and later retired from the city water department in 1986.

Sue married James B. Crowe in 1993. He preceded her in death in 1999.

She was famous for her chocolate chip cookies and rice pudding, and always had some on hand. She loved the Happy Joe’s special and washing it down with a beer. Sue watched nothing but westerns and loved John Wayne. She enjoyed playing dominos, cribbage, and had a special place in her heart for her grandchildren.

Sue is survived by her son, Michael “Mick” Yaeger, daughter Susan Yaeger, almost adopted son Tom Myers of Amarillo TX; grandchildren Rachael (Gary) Lewis, and Tyler (Amanda) Yaeger; great-grandchildren Skyler, Claire, and Oliver Yaeger; step-children Andrew (Linda) Crowe, Cathy (Michael) Thome, Breck Crowe, and Gary (Susan) Crowe; several step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband James Crowe; brothers Sam Hunt, Chuck Hunt and Richard Hunt.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you bake a batch of chocolate chip cookies while watching a western.

The family would like to thank the MercyOne CVU staff and especially Shannon for their great  care of Sue.

Margaret Meyers

Margaret “Peg” Meyers, 101, of Dubuque, died Monday, July 1, 2024, at the Bethany Home in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:15 am until 10:00 am on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Peg will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at Holy Spirit Parish – Holy Ghost Catholic Church with Fr. Steve Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Peg was born April 29, 1923, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Edward and Lucille (Weber) Traut. On September 3, 1945, she married William L. Meyers at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on June 19, 1996.

Peg spent most of her working career as a supervisor at the Credit Bureau until her retirement in 1985.

Survivors include her two sons, William “Willie” Meyers of Dubuque; and Douglas (Chris) Meyers of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren, Laura (friend, Paul Stine) Staben of Freeport, IL; Jannifer (Mike) Ayers of Cambridge, WI; Brian Meyers of Ankeny, IA; Paul (Traci) Meyers of North Liberty, IA; David Meyers of Scottsdale, AZ and Matthew Meyers of Tempe, AZ; great-grandchildren, Daniel Staben, Emily Ayers, and Luke, Carter, and Ava Meyers; five brothers- and sisters-in-law, Dorothy Link, Mary “Butch” Meyers, Adele “Delly” Morris, Robert Meyers, and Richard (Ginny) Meyers; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Peg was preceded in death by daughter-in-law, Zelda Meyers; her five brothers and sisters and several in-laws.

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

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

Roderick W. Eganhouse

Roderick W. “Rod” Eganhouse, 95, of Davenport, passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024.  Funeral Mass will be 10:00 am, Saturday, August 3, 2024 at St. Anthony Catholic Church 417 N Main St. Davenport, Iowa.  Family will greet friends 9:00 am until Mass at the church.  Graveside Services will be at 1:00 pm with Military Honors Conducted by Bellevue American Legion Post #273 in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

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

Rod was born in rural LaMotte, Iowa on July 12, 1929, the son of Albert and Helena (Hager) Eganhouse.  He was a farm hand before being drafted into the US Army, serving from 1951-1953.  Rod returned from serving his country and began a lifelong career with the Milwaukee and Sioux Line Railroad until retiring in 1989. Rod was a devoted Catholic and a genuine, good man, who enjoyed a simple life, staying current on events in the world, and was a true gentleman.  Rod lived for the day, had a social routine, enjoyed eating out, exercising, and lived by his saying “No worry-No Hurry.”  He was a member of St. Anothny Catholic Church in Davenport, AMVETS, and Bellevue American Legion Post #273.

Survivors include a brother in-law, Harold Styer; and numerous nieces and nephews and extended relatives.

Rod was preceded in death by his parents; siblings and in-laws, Allan (Marcy) Eganhouse, Eldon (Betty) Eganhouse, Omer (Betty) Eganhouse, Mary Jane (Vincent) Lord, and Imogene Styer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial may be direct to St. Anthony’s Parish in Rod’s memory.

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

Roger E. Kramer

Roger E. Kramer, 83, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at home with family at his side.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday, August 2, 2024, at St. Mary’s Church, East Dubuque, IL., with Fr. Ediberto Jarapa officiating.  Burial will be in the East Dubuque Cemetery. Family and friends may gather after 9:00 a.m. at the church. Miller Funeral Home, East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

Roger was born on September 1, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Henry and Ethel (Smith) Kramer. He was united in marriage to Barbara Lee Fleege on August 19, 1961 at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque.

Roger was employed as a carpenter his entire life.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing and more recently daily trips to the river.  He anxiously looked forward every year to his birthday as it was the beginning of hunting season.

Roger is survived by his wife, Barbara, of East Dubuque, IL; his children: David, Gregory, and Elizabeth Riffel-Altman (Tim); Grandchildren: Andrew (Emily), Daniel, Adam, Sam, and Lindsay.  He is survived by his sister Sue (Jerry) Wiederholt; sisters-in-law Sharon Kramer and Bev Kramer; brother-in-law Daniel (Kelley) Fleege; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Ethel, brothers Ken, Jerry, Gene Dick, and Jim; and sisters: Eleanor, Florence, and Evelyn; and grandson, Johnny Kramer.

The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all their wonderful care and kindness they gave to Roger.

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

Kenneth D. Smith

Kenneth Doyle Smith, 60, of Harwood Heights, IL, passed away Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital. The funeral service will be held at Noon on Thursday, August 1, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, where friends may call after 11 AM at the funeral chapel until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

He was born on September 1, 1963, in Waukegan, IL, the son of Doyle and Carol (Rousseau) Smith. Ken was a proud graduate of Waukegan High School. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting and finance from Northeastern Illinois University, an AAS degree in Computer Science from the College of Lake County, and a Master of Divinity and MBA degrees from North Park University. Ken was a former medic in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1995-1996 North Chicago, IL, also serving in 68W at U.S. Army (combat medicine) 1993-1994 and Fort Sam Houston, TX, 71L/Admin Specialist at U.S. Army 1990-1993 Fort McCoy, WI, and 11B Infantry at U.S. Army Maneuver Center of Excellence 1983-1989 Atlanta, GA.

He was united in marriage to Diane Smith on June 22, 1996, and she preceded him in death on October 24, 2020.  Ken loved Marvel comics, movies, and anything to do with Star Wars.  He also enjoyed collecting historical memorabilia.  An avid animal lover, Ken volunteered countless hours at his local animal shelter and did dog sitting for Rover.  A staunch Republican (like his father Doyle), Ken was a consistent poll worker at his local precinct.  Ken was studying to become a pastor through the Melrose Park Free Methodist Church at his death. He owned his church in Dixon, IL (New Life Church of Dixon) and looked forward to sharing God’s word again soon.

At his passing, Ken was a multi-department expert in TurboTax, QuickBooks, and Lacerte at Intuit. He owned New England Professional Services, a bookkeeping and accounting services provider.  Ken also held past positions as Office Leader, Master Tax Advisor at H&R Block, Life Group Leader at Crown Financial Ministries, Co-Founder and Board member for Wee Rock Child Development Center, ACT Instructor at Kaplan and Cambridge, and Senior Staff Accountant at Brown CPA Group, Ltd.  Ken also acquired his business/real estate license from Triton College and worked at Zerillo Realty as a Real Estate Broker in his spare time.

He is survived by his mother, Carol Smith of Galena, IL, two sisters, Lori Vines of Potosi, WI, and Sandy (Jim) Morris of South Amana, IA, and many loved nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his father and his beloved wife, Diane Smith, and a niece, April Campbell.

Memorials may be given to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to remember Ken and Diane’s beloved dogs, Bandit and Bailey.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Geraldine A. Lunetto

Geraldine Ann Lunetto, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in Galena, IL, on July 25, 2024, at the age of 70.

Born on March 8, 1954, in Chicago, IL, to Howard and Arlayne Spoerlein, Geraldine, known affectionately as “Geri,” led a life filled with love, dedication, and passion.  Geri grew up in Chicago, IL, with her two brothers, Kent and Gary Spoerlein, with whom she shared close and cherished relationships.

Geri’s genuine and original personality was reflected in her diverse interests. Her love for music, her artistic soul expressed through her love for art and coloring, and her remarkable green thumb in gardening were all part of her unique charm. She could spend hours daily nurturing her plants, creating beautiful and vibrant gardens that brought joy to all who saw them. She also loved celebrating birthdays, always finding excuses to bring out the balloons.  Geri was an amazing cook. She was known for her warmth in the kitchen and incredible meals, from pepper steak to tortellini bolognese. Many fond memories were made as she cooked and conversed with loved ones. Geri was a constant source of support and love for her family.

Geri is survived by her loving husband, Joseph Lunetto; her children, Michael (Tammy), Katherine, and Rebecca Lunetto; and her grandchildren, Emelia, Benjamin, and Christian, with another granddaughter expected in January 2025. She is also survived by her brother, Kent (Joyce) Spoerlein.

Her father, Howard, mother, Arlayne, and brother, Gary, preceded her in death.

A private family service will be held to honor Geri’s memory. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Geri’s memory by a meal with your family, celebrating the little moments, and nurturing your passions, just as she did throughout her life.

Your participation in this tribute is a meaningful way to keep her memory alive.

The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Darlene M. Block

Darlene M. Block, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at the age of 83 in Maquoketa, Iowa. Born on July 12, 1941, in rural Cedar County, Iowa, Darlene was the daughter of Vernon LeRoy and Lois Jane (Crocker) Comer. She grew up in the close-knit community of Stanwood, Iowa, where she developed a strong work ethic delivering newspapers in grade school and showcased her athletic talents on the school basketball court.

After graduating from Stanwood Consolidated High School, Darlene pursued further education at Iowa Technical School in Ottumwa, where she received training in computer programming. Her career began with a brief tenure at a local bank, but she soon found her niche at Clinton Engines in Maquoketa. It was there that she met the love of her life, Charles D. “Chuck” Block. The couple exchanged vows on December 17, 1966, in Rock Island, Illinois and Darlene embraced her role as a homemaker.

A woman of many interests and talents, Darlene was a member of the American Daughters of the Revolution. Her passion for politics was evident in her unwavering support for the Republican party. She devoted countless hours to political causes and cherished the memories captured in photographs with various presidential candidates. Darlene’s competitive spirit shone through in her love for bowling, and she was a familiar face in several area bowling leagues, where she dearly enjoyed both the sport and the camaraderie.

Darlene’s legacy is carried on by her loving family, who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Michelle L. Block and Robert Nelson of Zionsville, IN; her son, William Drumbarger of Nashville, TN; her adored grandchildren, Will Drumbarger, Allen Drumbarger, and Tasha Happs; and her treasured great-grandchild, Cassie Bruesch. She also leaves behind her siblings, Bill (Ann) Comer, LaSonda Sipe, Barb (Loren) Rice, and Patricia Schroeder, as well as her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Eugene “Doodee” and Dianna Block of Maquoketa, IA.  Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, her beloved son Wayne, and her sister Caroline Bertling.

A celebration of her life will be held at 11:30 A.M., Thursday, August 1, 2024, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 A.M. to 11:15 A.M. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery, Maquoketa, followed by a reception and lunch at the Timber Center from 1 to 3 P.M.

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