Obituaries Archive

Randall J. Vaske

Randall J. “Randy” Vaske, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on July 19, 2024, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque.  To honor Randy’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Randy’s family.

Randy was born on June 13, 1954, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Jim and Mary (Callahan) Vaske.  He loved his family and friends, enjoyed life, and kept things uncomplicated whenever possible.  Randy eventually found his soul-mate, LaVonne Wenzel, and the two were united in marriage and embraced each day hand in hand moving forward.  He faithfully invested his time and talents with IWI Auto Parts over the last 4 years, but had spent another 18 years at Tandem Tire prior, and even gave 12 years of his working career as a city bus driver where he made many friends along the way, including his wife. 

Randy was a gifted artist and thankfully leaves behind many of his creations for those who knew and loved him to treasure through the years ahead within the physical absence of Randy in their daily lives.  He was also an avid NASCAR fan and was always ready to sit down to the weekend race when time allowed.  Randy and LaVonne also enjoyed 4-wheeling and made many runs in their Jeep while enjoying the fellowship of friends and fellow enthusiast.  He possessed a contagious sense of humor and was truly generous to a fault.  Randy was surely the friend you always wanted to have in your corner when life happened around you.  We will miss Randy and his old hippy attitude towards life, but trust that he is at peace now from his earthly struggles and only waits patiently for us to arrive as well. 

Thank you, Randy, for keeping life simple and reminding all around you that life is short, don’t miss the moments as they pass by, but rather embrace each one with vitality and vigor until we’ve enjoyed our last one.   

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Randy include, his loving wife of 24 years, LaVonne Vaske, Dubuque, IA; his son, Sean (Traci) Vaske, Dubuque, IA; his granddaughter, Adelyn Vaske, Dubuque, IA; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents.

Randy’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Lyle H. Schepers

Lyle H. Schepers, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at Jackson County Regional Health Center in Maquoketa.

A public graveside service and burial celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the Elwood, Iowa Cemetery.  All family and friends are welcome to attend.  Cremation rites have been accorded.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Lyle Harold Schepers was born on June 15, 1957 in Maquoketa, Iowa, to Harold H. and Anita E. (Busch) Schepers.  He grew up on the family farm south of Elwood and was a 1975 graduate of Delwood High School.  He then attended the University of Dubuque and later the Brown Institute of Broadcasting in Minneapolis, Minnesota.  He married Nancy Jo Crouch on August 27, 1988 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.

Lyle had first worked for Hoffman Eggs in Maquoketa.  He then went into the radio broadcasting field and worked at KMAQ Radio Station in Maquoketa as an announcer and news director for several years.  He retired in 2022 after working for many years at Kraft/Heinz/Oscar Meyer in Davenport.

Lyle had served on the Elwood Cemetery Association board for several years.  He was an avid Iowa Hawkeyes fan, loved traveling and helping people when he could, feeding the birds, and spending time with the family cats.   

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Nancy Schepers of Maquoketa, IA; sister and brother-in-law, Alice and Dennis Mans of Maquoketa, IA; mother-in-law, Mary Jo Crouch of Maquoketa, IA; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Randy (Lori) Crouch of Maquoketa, IA, and Mark (Diana) Crouch of Maquoketa, IA; and several cousins.  He was preceded in death by his parents Harold and Anita Schepers.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to the Jackson County Humane Society or the Maquoketa Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad.

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

David Lieb

David Lieb, 70 years old of Dubuque Iowa passed away on July 18th after over a year long battle with cancer.

Dave was born on December 16, 1953, to David and Gloria (Pat) Lieb in Dubuque, Iowa. Dave attended Dubuque Hempstead High School, then enlisted in the United States Navy from 1972-1975. In 1973 Dave married Sandra (Trowbridge) Lieb and just celebrated their 51st year Anniversary this past January. Dave worked at the Dubuque Screw Co. for 35 years where he retired in 2023.

He enjoyed many hobbies. Singing, playing guitar, drawing, wood working, hunting and most of all fishing any chance he got. Hayword WI was his favorite spot. He also loved a good game of Yatzee and the casino, if he was winning.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents David and Gloria (Pat) Lieb, and his two sisters Cheryl Lieb and Cynthia Lieb (Trine). And his in-laws Ralph (Bill) and Peggy Trowbridge. He is survived by his wife Sandra (Trowbridge) Lieb, Daughters Sherri Houser (Mark), Amy Lieb (Lawson) and fiancé Jason Adams. Grandchildren, Mark Houser, Mathew Houser, Haley Seippel and Rylee Lawson. Sisters, Sue Schmitz (John), Tracey (Sis) Rousch (John), and Brothers Joe Lieb (Lynn), Mike Lieb (Janet), Guy Lieb (Gigi), and Troy (Bunk) Lieb (Gina). Sisters in law Barb (Mark) Saunier, Dawn (Ron) Udelhofen, Bev (Tom) Steuer, Robin (Randy)Breiner and brother-in-law Jerry (Nancy)Trowbridge. Along with several nieces and nephews. As well as amazing friends Rick and Alice Revenig and cousin Randy Lieb.
A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Engelman, Dr. Marks, and the entire staff at Mercy One Cancer Center for their compassionate care. Also, Dr. Eltibi and Dr. Kemp from Medical Associates. As well as all of the wonderful staff at hospice. We would also like to thank all of the family and friends for your thoughts and prayers. He will be forever missed.

Funeral services will begin at 1 p.m., Tuesday, July 23 at the Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, where a visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where Military Honors will be conducted by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.
In lieu of flowers a David Lieb Memorial Fund has been established.

Robert A. Wirth

Robert A. “Bob” Wirth, 89, of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Wheatland Manor in Wheatland, Iowa.

Robert was born on December 25, 1934 in Maquoketa, Iowa to Lester and Helen (Steele) Wirth.  He grew up on a farm in Elwood, IA and graduated from Elwood High School in 1952.  In 1956 he graduated from Iowa State University with a B.S. Degree in Agricultural Engineering and worked for International Harvester Co. in East Moline, IL as a design engineer.  In 1957 he joined the Army for 2 years and served in Germany at the 7th army headquarters near Stuttgart.  

On April 29,1962 he married Donna Mae Wiese and they moved back to the Elwood area to farm full-time.  The Wirth family farm became a Century Farm in 1993.

Robert was very active in the community, serving as a director of the Lost Nation Consumers Co-op (8 Years), Delwood School Board (15 years), Mississippi Valley Farm business (2 years) and the Lost Nation Elwood Telephone Co (30 years). He was a lifelong member of Elwood United Methodist Church and served as Church Treasurer for 40 years. He was a past Master of the Harbor Masonic Lodge #556 in Lost Nation and is currently a member of Ancient Landmark Lodge #200 in Olin and Clinton Scottish Rite and was a long time member of Clinton County Farm Bureau. Robert retired from farming in 2000 and, in retirement, has worked on the Wirth Family Tree started by his mother which includes 8 generations and 1750 names and many pictures dating back to 1739 in Germany. He served as Elwood Cemetery Association secretary from 2016-2023 and joined the American Legion post 75 in Maquoketa in 2019 when they opened membership to non-wartime veterans.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Donna; children, Scott (Mary Kay Hand) Wirth of Maquoketa, Barb (Scott) Harms of Cedar Rapids, Carol Wirth of Elwood, and Nancy (Jaime) Drahozal of Chanhassen, MN;  7 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren.  Siblings Clara (Bob) Larson of Flint, MI, Leland (Pat) Wirth of Des Moines, IA, and Karen Paterson of Baton Rouge, LA.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of his life will be held at noon on Monday, July 22nd at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.  Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10:00 to 11:45 a.m. at the funeral home.  Burial will be at the Elwood Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be made to the family for a future designation.

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

Gary E. Taplin

Gary Elden Taplin, 83, of rural Bryant, passed away on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.

Funeral Mass will be 11:00 am, Saturday, July 27, 2024 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Preston.  Family will greet friends 9:00 am – 11:00 am prior to Mass at church.  Graveside Services with Military Honors will be at 2:00 pm in Fairview Cemetery rural Miles.

Gary was born June 29, 1941, the son of Thomas Elden and Marie Margaret (Petersen) Taplin.  He served his county in the US Navy during Vietnam.  Gary worked for Dupont, Ag Services, a realtor, helped with odd jobs, and was a farmer. He married Judy Hughes in 1968, 3 children were born of this union, later they divorced.   He later married Cheryl Drury on August 6, 2005 at Elvira Zion Lutheran Church.  Gary was a friend of Bill W. and a member of Miles American Legion.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, planting trees, and was an avid DIY builder.  Gary enjoyed embarrassing his wife, family and friends with his joking and clothing choices. He thought duct tape could fix everything, hard worker til he possibly could not work, never took “no” for an answer, and  proud of his military service.  Gary would always have a response for everything, “short trip” when he was driving Cheryl crazy, “long way’s away from my heart” – if he got hurt; and there was the right way the wrong way, and Gary’s way.  He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Cheryl; his children, Shelly (Scott) Paxton, Gary (Kimmy) Taplin, and Thomas (Dolly) Taplin; step-children, Chasity (Nick) Beelner, Lindsey Huff, and Devon (Allison) Rose; grandchildren, Ruth (Harry), Nicholas (Sally), Destiney (Eric), Tony (Krista), Brody, Evan, Melvin, Lilly, Audrea, Logan, Griffin, Claire, and Amelia; 9 great-grandchildren; 5 great-great grandchildren; and a brother, Dennis (Diane) Taplin.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Arlene (Don) Dierksen, Lola (Carl) Machande, and Patsy (Jim) Harbron.

A memorial fund has been established in Gary’s memory.

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

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

Ronald J. March

Ronald J. March, 89, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Mercy One Medical Center in Dubuque, Iowa.

The family of Ronald will greet friends and relatives from 10:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Ronald will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa, with Rev Philip Aygei presiding.  Assisting Deacon will be Roger Riesburg.   Full Military Honors will follow the mass.  A private burial will be held in St. Francis Cemetery in Dyersville, Iowa at a later date.

He was born on March 24, 1935 in Earlville, Iowa, son of Albert L. and Marie (Whiting) March.  He received his education in the Earlville area schools and Warren, IL schools.  On December 30, 1961 he was united in marriage to Phyllis Christoph at the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier in Dyersville, Iowa.  He was a Factory Manager for Curran Hydraulics and Leigh Equipment, both in Dyersville for many years.  He was one of the founders of the Dyersville Airport.

He was a wonderful family man and very nurturing to his family.  He had a passion for God and life, and was quick to point out the beauty in everything.  He was a singer, artist, and inventor who could fix any and everything.  He especially enjoyed spending time with his family, making sure he made each of them feel special. 

He was an Army Veteran, serving in the 101st Airborne.  He was recipient of the Soldier of the Month award and recipient of a Quilt of Valor.  He was a member of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier Parish and the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis March of Dyersville, IA; four children, Lisa (Rick) Dunlevy of Cedar Falls, IA, Anne (Rich) Rossini of Algonquin, IL, Michael (Tina) March of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Patrick March of Kansas City, MO; seven grandchildren, Harrison (Kate) March, Ilaria Rossini, Taylor March, Koda March, William March, Megan (Aaron) Christensen and Ren (Dev) Rossini; one step grandchild, Andrew Monroe (Courtney Clark);  two great grandchildren, Maeve March and Wesley Christensen; two step great grandchildren, Hunter Monroe and Zachary Clark and two siblings, Beverly (Robert) Schiess of Freeport, IL and Robert (Trudy) March of Idaho.

He is preceded in death by his parents; one son, Steven March in 1972; and a sister, Mary Lee (Richard) Akkerman.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Memorials may be given to the Parish of the Basilica of St. Francis Xavier or the AFIL (Americans for Independent Living), an organization that helps our veterans.

Mary A. Beaves

Mary Agnes Beaves, 69, of Dubuque, IA passed away on July 16, 2024.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024, at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with a wake service to be held at 7:00 p.m. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at St. Joseph The Worker with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Entombment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery.  Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family. 

Mary was born on October 30, 1954, in Cascade, Iowa, the daughter of Patrick W. and Lucille C. (Herrig) Noonan. She graduated from Aquin High School in Cascade, Iowa. 

On January 8, 1982, she was united in marriage to Richard G. “Dick” Beaves at the Church of the Nativity and together they had three children.  Mary’s family brought her great joy. 

Mary spent her entire professional career working for the State of Iowa in the Clerk of Courts office retiring after 40 years of service in 2013.  In retirement, Mary compassionately cared for her loved ones and found pure joy in watching her grandchildren and attending their activities.

Mary was strong in her faith which guided her as she supported her parish in all ways. Mary was an ardent supporter of the Holy Family Schools and loved cheering on her favorite Golden Eagles whether in music, the classroom or on the court.

Mary is survived by her husband Richard; their children: Sara (Jake) Weires, Matt (Lindsey) Beaves and Katie (Kyle) Brinkman. Grandchildren: Mary and Elinor Weires; Theo and Charlie Beaves; and Carter Brinkman. Mary is also survived by her ten siblings: Patsy (Ray) Schmidt, Jean (Ralph) Pfeiler, Mike (Vicki) Noonan, Dick (Grace) Noonan, Bob (Teresa) Noonan, Joe (Margaret) Noonan, Helen (Mike) Pospychala, Jake (Tara) Noonan, Phil (Mary Lou) Noonan and Kevin (Shelly) Noonan.  Her in-laws Bob (Mary) Beaves, Kathy (Tom) Noonan and Jane (Paul) Beitzel along with numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members. 

She was preceded in death by her parents Patrick and Lucille Noonan and her father-in-law and mother-in-law Richard and Geraldine Beaves. 

The family requests no flowers; in lieu of flowers memorials will be directed to Holy Family Schools in Dubuque, Iowa. 

The family wishes to thank First Responders for their quick response and compassion during this difficult time. Also, to our family and friends for their love and prayers during our time of loss. 

Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com 

Barbara Bruser

Barbara Bruser, 89, of Galena, IL, and formerly of Roselle, IL, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at Midwest Senior Care Community. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no services. Cremation rites have been accorded. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena is assisting the family.

She was born on August 19, 1934, in Chicago, IL, the daughter of Leslie and Helen (Hane) Ketchum. Barbara graduated from Leyden High School, Franklin Park, IL. She was united in marriage to Herbert Bruser on February 16, 1954, in River Grove, IL, and he preceded her in death on June 19, 2017. Barb worked in a real estate office for many years and then handled the bookkeeping for her husband’s automotive hardware business. She was an amateur photographer and, for many years, was in a camera club. She also enjoyed sewing, quilting, embroidery, making beaded jewelry, and going “antiquing.”

Barb is survived by her daughter, Julie (Tom Saccomanno) Bruser.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her only sibling, a brother Arthur.

In memory of Barb, the family asks for donations to Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation or Safe Haven Humane Society, both of Elizabeth, IL, in her memory.

The family wishes to thank the compassionate staff at Midwest Medical Center, Midwest Senior Care Community and Hospice of Dubuque, and especially Dr. Beth Gullone.

Online condolences may be left at www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Lois L. Neal

Lois Lorrayne Neal, 92, of Cocoa Beach, FL, formerly of Dubuque and Guttenberg, IA passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Solaris Healthcare in Merritt Island.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Lois will be at 10:30 am on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon John Stierman officiating. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Lois was born March 5, 1932, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Ray and Dorothy (Williams) Winders. On June 6, 1953, she married Harold “Red” L. Neal at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque and they celebrated 61 wonderful years together. He preceded her in death on February 26, 2015.

Lois was a dedicated and loving stay at home mom and enjoyed her weekly bowling league with family and friends. She cherished her lunches with her sisters. After Red retired, they moved to their summer home on Esmann Island in Guttenberg. Lois took delight in piloting the pontoon boat along the river and enjoyed playing cards with family and friends. She and Red were fortunate enough to be snowbirds in Cocoa Beach and Guttenberg for over 30 years. She loved spending time at the beach but most of all, she loved her dog, Bailey, and cherished her family.

Survivors include four children, Cathy (Ken) Schmitt of Merritt Island, FL; Patti Shannon of Dubuque; Mike Neal of Cape Canaveral, FL; and Kim Neal-Jacovitz of Cocoa Beach, FL; two sons-in-law, Randy Smith and Larry Holt both of Cocoa Beach, FL; 14 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Donna (Wayne) Gratton; one brother, Denny (Loretta) Winders; two sisters-in-law, Jan Neal and Rose Neal; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Lois was preceded in death by one daughter, Susan Neal-Smith; one granddaughter, Sam Lynch; and one sister, Sandi Juergens.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

Jeffrey J. Stoll

Jeffrey John Stoll’s health struggles were many, and after years of being strong, and fighting to live, his weary body gave out. On Sunday July 14, 2024, at age 63, he died peacefully with his family by his side at Harmony Care Facility in Dubuque, lowa. 

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm at Temple Hill Church in Cascade, Iowa, with a prayer service at noon.  A luncheon and a celebration of his life will follow in the church hall.  A private family burial will be at a later date.

Jeff was born May 31, 1961 in Monticello, IA. He was the youngest son of Loras and Dola (Till) Stoll.

Jeff graduated from Monticello High School as well as Ashford University. He held various jobs throughout his life, but because of many health issues, it became hard to work. He enjoyed working and being helpful.

The best day of Jeff’s life was Feb 22, 1996, when he welcomed his daughter, Lucinda Ann, into this world. She was his “pride and joy”, and a constant ray of sunshine.

Jeff was always kind, caring, loving father, and a great baby brother. He cherished his time with Lucinda and his family. He loved the Chicago Cubs, Bears, strawberry licorice, dressing sharp, desserts, and a little coffee with his cream.

He leaves behind his loving and beautiful daughter Lucinda Sam, and her husband, Greg. Ten siblings: Pat (Jeanne), Jim (Kim), Ed (Margie), Tom (Evelyn), Jane Steger and Skeeter, Lois (Dale) Andrews, Robert (Linda), Julie (Tom) Weiler, Alan, and Ruth (Donnie) Ungs. He had many nieces and nephews, and his cat, Jack.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, brother John, and his niece and nephew.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Dr. John Whalan for taking such good care of Jeff the past 30 years, also Tri-State Dialysis, Hospice of Dubuque, and the staff at Harmony for all of their excellent care.

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

Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.iowacremation.com under Obituaries.

Walter J. Kunnert

Walter J. “Wally” Kunnert, 86, of Dubuque passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024.  Visitation will be from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm Friday, July 19 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.  Mass of Christian Burial will be 1:30 pm Friday at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church.  Entombment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. A livestream of the Mass can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Wally was born September 21, 1937 in Dubuque, son of Walter A. and Helen (Graham) Kunnert. He graduated from Loras Academy and attended the University of Iowa.

On April 19, 1958, he married Beatrice “Bea” Bacon at the Church of the Nativity.

Wally was a true entrepreneur.  He began his career with Jaeger-Kunnert Wholesale Grocers.  He then opened Jim’s Drive-In, one of the first drive ins in Dubuque.  After Jim’s Drive-In, he opened a Shakey’s pizza, which later became the Shot Tower Inn, which he ran for many years until his retirement.

Upon retirement, Wally and Bea moved to their place on Lake Bellaire in Bellaire, Michigan, where they lived for 20 years before moving back to Dubuque.

Wally absolutely loved people. He enjoyed golfing with the “redshirts”, fishing, pulling practical jokes, and was always good for a “one-liner” all day long.  He loved his customers at the Shot Tower and having them come in for the “440” club. Every year at the Shot Tower’s customer appreciation party, he would play a video he produced, which had many comedic skits that he had created.

Wally was a past member of Dubuque Golf and Country Club and the Dubuque Optimists Club.

He is survived by his wife, Beatrice “Bea” Kunnert of Dubuque; six children, Kristine Doll Castino of Plover, WI, Karen Kunnert of Georgetown, TX, Kim (Jim) Thomison of Silver City, NM, Jim (Cori) Kunnert of Dubuque, Rob (Tania) Kunnert of Dubuque and Katherine Kunnert of Albuquerque, NM; 15 grandchildren, Joe Doll, Jessica (Joe) Spertoli, Samantha Doll and Will Doll; Stephanie (Mike) Grubb, Robert (Mel) Roussel and Emily (Anson) Walling; James (Allison) Thomison II and Taylor Thomison; Gabrielle Finn, Emma Kunnert, Cal Kunnert, and Mia Kunnert; and Megan Kunnert and Kaia Schmitt; and 11 great grandchildren.

He was also survived by two brothers, Richard Kunnert and Fred (Sue) Kunnert and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two sons in law, Philip Doll and James Castino; and a sister in law, Nancy Kunnert.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Dubuque or Stonehill Care Center.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque and the Memory Care Unit at Stonehill Care Center for their wonderful care.

Rita A. Garside

Rita A Garside, 89, of Dubuque, died Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Church of the Resurrection.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Rita will be at 10:30 am on Friday, July 19, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father David Ambrosy as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rita was born September 2, 1934, in Petersburg, IA, the daughter of John and Irene (Koelker) Dingbaum. On August 12, 1961, she married John “Jack” S. Garside at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Earlville, Iowa.

Rita was a loving stay at home mom, always providing delicious eats for her family. She loved to bake, especially because she had a big sweet tooth. Rita and Jack were regulars at the Village Inn for breakfast where they always had a table full of friends to join them. They also had a great group of friends on Shetland Court where they would gather for neighborhood parties. Rita and Jack enjoyed going to the local and surrounding area casinos in addition to several trips to Las Vegas. In the quiet times, she enjoyed sitting and relaxing on the back patio.

Survivors include her husband of almost 63 years, John “Jack” S. Garside of Dubuque; four children, Steve (Deanna) Garside of Rockford, IL; Lori Henry of Cedar Rapids, IA; Michael Garside of Dubuque; and Chad (fiance, Brittan Higley) Garside of Summerville, SC; four grandchildren, Andy (fiance, Sydney Hirsch) Henry, Libby Henry, Valerie Henry, and Morgan (Shawn) Thomas; three great-grandchildren, Landon, Mason, and Kolton Thomas; brother-in-law, Hugh (Marge) Garside; and many nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, Rita was preceded in death by two brothers, Alver (Eileen) and Lester (Virgie) Dingbaum; and four sisters, Dorothy (Merlin) Maiers, Julie (Leo) Gerken, Theresa (Bill) Gibbs, and Veryl (Anthony) Voss.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Resurrection Catholic Church.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Hospice of Dubuque and the nurses and staff at Oak Park Place Memory Care and Hawkeye Care Center.

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

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

Mary A. Wohlford

Mary A. Wohlford, 98, of Dyersville, Iowa, passed away on July 15, 2024, after a very short illness. She was surrounded by several of her daughters when she was called home.

Visitation will be held from 2 – 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 prior to funeral mass at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery. Rev. Gabriel Mensah will officiate.

Mary was born on March 29, 1926, to George and Anna Beckmann of Dyersville, Iowa. She attended Xavier grade school and Xavier high school. After graduating from high school, Mary went on to study nursing at the St. Francis School of Nursing in Freeport, Illinois. After graduating from nurses training, she was inducted into the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corp and worked as a Cadet Nurse from 1944 until 1947. She met Walter C. Wohlford while attending nurses’ training and he quickly became the love of her life. Mary and Walter married on March 29, 1948, in the St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville. After 39 years of marriage, Mary lost her beloved husband Walter when he passed away on November 23, 1987.

Walt and Mary were the parents to eight beautiful daughters, Connie, Sandy, Ann, Susan, Mary Pat, Jenny, Elizabeth and Christine. Their four older daughters were famously known for each being born on August 3rd, a world record that was codified by Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Though Mary and Walt had a very busy home life, there was always room for others. Walt and Mary were active as Catholic Charities foster parents to Tim and Jim Weiss and Roberto and Louis Del Riego. They hosted a foreign exchange student as well, that foreign exchange student, Monica Westhoff, soon became a member of the Dyersville community. In the Wohlford home there was always room for others at the table.

Together, Walt and Mary owned Wohlford’s Water Treatment and Quality Pools, businesses they managed together for decades. When Walt wanted to go into the pool business, he felt he should have a pool in his back yard in part for marketing purposes.  Mary originally was not interested in having a pool, but she very quickly warmed up to the idea.  The pool served as a gathering place for the family, neighbors, and many of the Wohlford children’s friends. Mary spent every summer sunning by the pool while watching her grandchildren and great grandchildren swim. 

Besides raising eight daughters and managing their businesses, Mary worked as a Registered Nurse at Mercy Hospital in Dubuque for 24 years, from 1971-1995. As a nurse, she helped babies enter the world and she held her patients’ hands as they were being called home. After Mary’s retirement she organized the Parish Health Ministry in Dyersville in 1996.  Mary was active in the Catholic Daughters of America and was a hospice volunteer. From 1997 until late in life Mary Wohlford traveled with Medical Ministry International (MMI). While traveling with MMI, she provided medical and surgical care in clinics in Jamaica, Ecuador, Thailand, Haiti, Armenia, Fiji, and various locations in Africa. Mary also worked with the American Red Cross and served to help those devastated by Hurricane Katrina, later, she worked with the Red Cross in Rochester Minnesota after the city was ravaged by flooding. Mary’s passports tell the story of a fearless woman who traveled the world and lived in service to others.

Mary loved a good cup of coffee, exploring nature, exercising and swimming. She loved to debate issues related to religion, science, politics, health care and current events, she also loved to travel.  She was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend. She was a devout Catholic who prayed the rosary many times a day, and to ensure she always had a rosary at hand, she wore her rosary around her neck as a necklace.

She loved and was so proud of her daughters, her grandchildren (Emily, Justin, Zack, Sonny, Tyler, Clayton, Austen, Christopher, Abbey, Shelly, Stuart, Walter, Jessica, Tony, Eli, Alex, Ivy, and Max), and her great-grandchildren (Ella, Cooper, Jase, Mollie, Ruby, Margot, Luella, Rayne, Willow, Wilder, Avery, Nolan, Adhelle, Shayla, Antwan Jr., Jezel, Zion, Lyle, Rory, Letti, Louise, Waylon and Shawn.

Mary was predeceased in death by her loving husband Walter C. Wohlford, her daughter Ann George, granddaughter Shelly Lucas, her brothers Luke (John), Paul, Tom Beckmann and Sisters Ester Sears and Vivian Glab. She is predeceased in death by her son in laws Bob Jacobson, Dennis Rausch, and nephew David Beckmann.

She is survived by her sister-in-law Mary Kay Beckmann, daughters Connie Holmes, Sandy Rausch (Larry Bouvier), Susan Jacobson, Dr. Mary Pat Wohlford (Dr. Joe D. Goldstrich), Jennifer Kulper (Roger), Elizabeth Wohlford (Allan Paul), and Christine Wohlford. She is survived by 17 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The world was a better place because of the life of Mary Ann Beckmann Wohlford. Hers was a life well lived and she will be sorely missed.

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

Marianne R. Haupert

Marianne Rose (Bray) Haupert died peacefully on July 14, 2024, surrounded by her children. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 20th at St. Joseph the Worker Parish. Visitation will take place that day at the church beginning at 9:00 a.m. The Egelhof, Siegert, and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

She was born on February 13, 1938 to Louis and Dorothy Bray, and resided in Dubuque her entire life. She married Carl Haupert on July 13, 1960, a marriage that lasted until his death in 2022. She was a dedicated and wonderful mother to their seven children.

She graduated from the Visitation Academy and earned her LPN from Mercy Hospital, where she was employed as a nurse. She was a life-long caregiver, beginning with her career as a nurse, and extending to motherhood. She gave up her nursing career to devote herself to the care of her seven children, one of whom she cared for until his death in 2008. She later served as the primary caregiver for her husband, until his illness required his movement to Luther Manor for the final year of his life.

She spent a part of every summer of her life at the family cottage in Waupaca, Wisconsin, and had been planning for her annual trip in the weeks before her death. She enjoyed spending time with her family, whether at home or the cottage, and had even adopted the 21^st century means of communication with her extended family: texting. She was a master at the use of emojis, though never did quite learn how to catch typos before hitting the send button, much to the amusement of her children and grandchildren. She spent her final evening in typical fashion: relaxing at the end of the day with a good book and the company of her cat.

Mom was not famous, and never flashy. But she was always there for us, in good times and bad, sickness and health, our triumphs and our tragedies. She never wavered. Her life was based on the lessons we find in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, and it keeps no record of wrongs. That was Mom.

A frequent joke among the family was which of the children was her favorite. It was funny because it was so unimaginable. Mom had no favorites. In fact, to the sometime irritation of her children, she seemed to possess no capacity to dislike anyone. She had an amazing knack to see the good in everyone, which was reflected back upon her. In the last two years, since the death of her husband, she often wondered why she was so lucky to have children who were so attentive to her. The answer was simple. We learned from the master.

She is survived by a sister-in-law, Elizabeth Bray, her children Mike (Mary Ellen), Amy (Mark) Oles, Lisa (Rick) Lewis, Jenny, Ann (Nestor) Schnasse, and David, numerous nieces and nephews, 17 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Barbara, her brothers John and Louis, her husband, Carl, and her youngest son Paul.

The family would like to thank the police officers, paramedics, firefighters and dispatchers, nurses, doctors, and chaplain at Finley Hospital for their wonderful and compassionate care in her final hours, and Fr. Brian Dellaert, who administered her final rites.

Edward A. Krasnodemski

Edward A. “Ed” Krasnodemski, 48, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away peacefully at home on July 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A celebration honoring Ed’s life will be held at a later date. In accordance with his wishes, Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ed’s family.

Ed was born on June 28, 1976, in Boonton, New Jersey, to his mother Marcy B. Yara. He truly found home in Dubuque after finding his best friend and soulmate Katie A. Aldeman, with whom he shared a beloved daughter, Lauren. Though he would spend his working hours employed for John Deere, Ed would not be defined by his occupation but rather by his undeniable love for life and sharing his passions with those around him.

Whether it was gearing up for adventure with his guild, Midnight Crisis, in World of Warcraft, taking in a concert, spending time with his friends and family at Backpocket Taproom or their uncle’s house on the river in Potosi, rolling up a campaign in Dungeons & Dragons, or spending a quiet night watching a Marvel or Star Wars movie, Ed never wasted a moment and cherished sharing his excitement for gaming and companionship with those most important in his life.

Ed will be remembered for the quick wit & sarcasm, laughter, and the happiness that he brought to those in his life. May those who love him cherish the memories not of the hard fought and courageous health battles he endured, but to the memories of the wonderful times he shared with those most important to him.

Ed is survived by his loving wife of 16 years, Katie Krasnodemski and their adored daughter Lauren of Dubuque; his mother Marcy (Rene) Bossard of Dubuque; his father-and-mother in-law Dan and Karen Aldeman of Dubuque, sister in-law Sarah Aldeman (fiancé Jason Ramsey) of Pensacola, FL; and numerous extended friends, family, and neighbors.

Ed’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque for all their professional and compassionate care in his final days, especially Jeremiah who made Katie feel at ease in his final 48 hours.

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