Obituaries Archive
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Lori J. Kirschbaum
Our beautiful Mom, Lori Jean Kirschbaum (Ficken), 65, of Marshalltown, Iowa, passed away unexpectedly, but peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at 3:05 a.m. at Dubuque Specialty Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa.
Lori was born on November 24, 1959, in Marshalltown, Iowa, the daughter to Alan and Barbara Smith (Graham). This is where she grew up, lived majority of her life, went to school, and graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1978. Years later, she attended Marshalltown Community College studying Nursing and Humanities. Lori was very fluent in Spanish at an advanced level and used her interpreter skills to provide assistance in her community. Formerly, she lived in Melbourne, Iowa, for a short time.
Lori was united with the love of her life, Todd Kirschbaum in 2003 and they married on August 2, 2006, living life in rural Beaman, Iowa, to the fullest with love, laughter, friends, and family until Todd’s passing on March 4, 2013, succumbing to symptoms related to his Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
In all things Lori did, she said her rosary, a quiet testament to her unwavering faith. She said all she wanted was to make sure that she gave us purpose. One of Lori’s biggest accomplishments and joys in her life was becoming a devoted Grandmother spending many countless hours talking about and playing with her many grandchildren whom she absolutely adored and loved with all of her heart. Lori would always have grandchildren spending the night at their house and she was always seen wearing an apron to bake food, do arts and crafts, spend hours outdoors in the garden, loved being on the tractor when on the farm, playing sports, and video games as well as RockBand, singing and dancing, swimming, shopping, watching movies and cartoons, going to the library, and playing with her beloved dogs, Remi, Baxter, CeCe Rider, and Hera. Lori was a very passionate and devoted lifelong Green Bay Packer football fan never missing a game (literally!) She also enjoyed visits with her good friends drinking coffee while having long talks discussing past times and the future.
Lori loved working as a Mental Health Peer Support Specialist with the Mid-Iowa Triumph Recovery Center. She had a diverse career and volunteer history, very well known for being a strong advocate for human rights and social change that became a part of who she was and what she stood for. She strongly supported and advocated for domestic violence survivors. She spent many hours assisting those in need in her community in so many aspects of life proudly working as an Iowa Homeless and Housing Coalition Tenant Organizer that led to a job position offered to her in Washington, D.C., however, she stayed in Iowa to prioritize raising her children in their hometown. She continued to work in different job roles within her community working for the Census Bureau as a Census Enumerator, involved in several programs through Mid Iowa Community Action, serving on different committees also writing papers to secure grant money for MICA and helped develop the W.O.M.E.N program (Women Obtaining and Maintaining an Exciting New life), which this name later changed. Lori enjoyed being involved in politics by volunteering during the Iowa Caucus serving as a Delegate.
Lori had a deep passion for music and loved being a band member as one of the alternative rock genre’ singer/songwriter in the band Dascuri for many years (1987-1992) releasing albums with some of her best friends. Also, collaborating, composing, and performing music with DJB Enterprises, Inc (1992-2000). She assisted with secretarial duties as well.
Those left behind to cherish Lori’s memory include,
her three children,
Daughter, Andrea (Nicholas) Davis of Maquoketa, IA.,
Daughter, Mistrey (Mike) Beach of Gladbrook, IA.,
and Son, Michael Ficken of Marshalltown, IA;
her step-son,
Damon (Samantha) Kirschbaum of Houston, TX;
her grandbabies,
Mason, Maddisyn, Jaycob, Blake, Raven, Deja, Braiden, Kaylee, Ethan, Owen, Aliyah, and Adriana;
her siblings,
sister, Pam Pilkington,
and brother, Brad Smith & sister-in-law Mitzi (Meredith) Smith;
along with extended family including many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.
Lori has always said, “I’ve loved my children and grandchildren more than life or myself!” She reminded her family daily to always have courage and be kind. Lori loved to love people! She has too many favorite staff to list that took amazing care of her, but she found each of them to be extended family and in the same they loved her calling her Mom and Grandma. She said she would always leave apart of herself behind to cherish, she just wanted to be remembered.
Lori had some favorite quotes she would say… “ I don’t wanna get rich- just live good!” & “ People in hell want ice water, that don’t mean they get it!” -Patsy Cline
“Don’t be like the rest of them darling!” & “In order to be irreplaceable one must be different!” -Coco Chanel
The family wishes to extend a special thanks for the compassionate care provided by all of the Doctors, Nurses, CMAs, CNAs, and staff at Dubuque Specialty Care, Care Initiatives Hospice, MercyOne Hospital, ER, ICU, and Medical floor for their kindness, patience, and time spent with her. We know there were many that spent countless hours talking with her, holding her hand, and making her feel so loved. Lastly, our family humbly extends gratitude and respect to Tri-State Cremation Center for all they do and their care for Lori.
In keeping Lori’s heartfelt wish, she will be cremated. A small private celebration of life for immediate family will be held on August 25, 2025, honoring her with their stories, laughter, and love. In accordance with each Lori and her late husband Todd, it was in their final wishes that family gather and reunite their ashes together as we know they’ve dearly missed each other. This sacred reunion is long awaited for them to be rejoined in eternal peace and love.
A Memorial service for Lori’s life will be open to extended family, friends, and all who loved her, announcement at a later date. Apologies to anyone that has reached out and did not receive a response concerning Lori’s arrangements, as we have had some emergent family circumstances that caused delays.
In lieu of flowers, the family is graciously requesting donations be made to a GoFundMe page in honor of Lori Jean Kirschbaum’s memory, this will help cover expenses related to her unexpected death as she did not have a will or funds for cremation costs. Any additional funds left after cremations costs will be directed towards her Memorial service at a later date.
Please find her GoFundMe page @
Online condolences may be shared with Lori’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com
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John R. Tegeler
John R. “Jack” Tegeler, age 82, of Dubuque, IA, passed peacefully into the arms of his beloved Jesus Christ on August 22, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center with his loving wife, Nancy and step-daughter, Sharlyn Waterman by his side. To honor Jack’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue, with Rev. Raymond Burkle officiating. Family and friends of Jack’s are invited to join in fellowship for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Cemetery. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jack’s family.
Jack was born on December 15, 1942, in Davenport, IA, a son to Robert and Marion (Brown) Tegeler. At the age of two the family moved to Dubuque. Jack attended Trinity Catholic, Wahlert, and graduated from Loras College in 1966. He married Sharon Snyder that year, but the marriage was annulled many years later.
Jack’s career was with John Deere as a territory manager in New Jersey. After 23 years, Jack retired and pursued golf school in San Diego, CA. He was proud of the fact that he was able to travel to Scotland and played many of the courses there including Carnoustie, The Old Course St. Andrew’s and many more.
Jack was a very kind and caring man and came back to the Tri-State’s to care for his aunt. Later he moved to Tucson, AZ, where he was very active in the church, acting as Grand Knight and hosting Bingo nights and Thanksgiving food baskets for the needy. While in Tucson, he delivered newspapers to over 600 customers.
Eventually, in 2013, Jack moved back to Iowa and formed his business, JT Promotions of which he was the proprietor. Jack joined the Tri-State Singles group in 2013 and became president in 2014. There, he met the love of his life, Nancy. They married on October 23, 2015, and spent the next few years traveling. Memorable trips were to Phoenix, Tucson, Traverse City, MI, and many trips to Laughlin, NV.
In 2016, “Mitzi” their dog came into their lives. She was his “little girl”.
Jacked enjoyed golf, euchre, karaoke, casinos, the Cubs and Bears and helping others. He remained active with the Knights of Columbus through St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque where he was a Eucharistic Minister up until 2023.
Jack and Nancy joined Holy Spirit Parish several years ago. Jack was also proud to work at Oak Park Place as their driver for residents. When he developed dementia, he had to resign, but he and Nancy continued to deliver communion to several residents. The last two years of his life he had many medical challenges, including cancer. Jack was blessed to live a full and abundant life and we will miss him dearly.
Those left to cherish the memory of Jack include,
his loving wife,
Nancy Tegeler, Dubuque, IA;
his favorite canine companion,
Mitzi;
his step-children,
Scott (Amy) Hoffmann, Castle Rock, CO,
and their son, Braedon,
Sharlyn (Cale) Waterman, Peosta, IA,
and their children and grandchildren, Tyler (baby Hazel) Donovan, Haley and son Malakai Donovan, Adlyn (Isaac Hogan) Donovan, Callie Waterman, Chloe (Trevor) Waterman, and daughter, Everleigh;
his favorite cousins,
June (Tim) Berntgen,
Janet (Steve) Hirsh,
Jack Anthony,
Jeff Anthony,
and Jerry Anthony;
along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Karen Sue (David) Marso; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
In lieu of flowers, a John R. Tegeler memorial fund has been established.
Jack’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and compassionate care.
Online condolences may be shared with Jack’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com
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Robert C. Bauer
Robert Charles Bauer, 51, of Mount Prospect, Illinois, passed away on August 19, 2025, at Endeavor Health Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church with Rev. Raymond Burkle officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. A continued celebration of life will follow the burial at Happy’s Place starting at 3:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.
Robert was born on October 14, 1973, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Jeffrey C. and Kathleen (Zimmerman) Bauer. Rob graduated from Hempstead High School class of 1992 and continued his education at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), Iowa State University and University of Dubuque, and earned his Masters of Business Administration at Webster University. He was the fleet & safety manager at Empire Cooler Services Inc. in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Our beloved Rob was an avid fisherman and photographer who found peace and beauty in nature. Whether it be on Lake D’Arbonne in Farmerville, Louisiana, up north in Wisconsin, on the mighty Mississippi, or deep-sea fishing in the Gulf, he found the thrill of the catch. When he’s not casting a line, he loves to capture the beauty of soaring majestic birds over the water. Rob also paddled with Solid Steel Dragon Boat Team in Dubuque. Even though he went to Iowa State University, he was a devoted Hawkeyes fan. His integrity is evident in how he approached all aspects of his life by being trustworthy, dependable, and loyal to family, friends and coworkers. He may have been soft spoken, but his selfless acts of kindness and generosity spoke louder than words.
Those left to cherish the memory of Rob include his mother and stepfather Kathy (Earl) Brimeyer of Dubuque Iowa, his sister Kristi (Joey) Fink of Rotonda West, Florida, his nephew Jacob Fink of Huntsville, Alabama, his niece Samantha Fink of Rotonda West, Florida, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his father Jeff Bauer, his grandparents Charles and Marie Bauer, and Eugene “Zuke” and Elaine Zimmerman.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to Rob’s memorial fund to be used for a memorial bench and other expenses.
A special thanks to the staff at Northwest Community Hospital Neuro team in Intensive Care Unit and surgery located in Arlington Heights, Illinois.
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Mary J. Mether
Mary Jane Karr Mether, 93, formerly of Maquoketa, Iowa passed away August 20, 2025 at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque, Iowa.
Mary was born July 24, 1932, in La Porte City, Black Hawk County, Iowa, and was the only child of Monroe and Lillian (Lamos) Karr. A 1950 graduate from La Porte City School where she was active in vocal and instrumental music and cheerleading. After graduation she was employed by the local newspaper, The Progress Review.
She was married on October 19, 1951 to Lloyd R. Mether in the First Methodist Church at La Porte City, Iowa. This union was dissolved in 1974.
She was a homemaker until the youngest child began school and then she began to further her education. She received the Associates Arts degree from Mount St. Clare College in 1975, the Bachelor of Arts from Marycrest College in 1977 where she graduated with high honors, and the Master of Arts from University of Northern Iowa in 1985 and was awarded one of the last state of Iowa permanent teaching certificates.
She was hired immediately as the Vocational Education Instructor for the MOC Program in the Belle Plaine, Iowa school district before accepting a position at the Eastland Community school in Lanark, Illinois. After retirement she moved to Maquoketa and continued as a substitute teacher at North Scott Schools in Eldridge, Iowa.
Mary enjoyed traveling, reading, dancing, sewing and volunteering at the Hurstville Interpretive Center, Jackson County Regional Heath Center, Maquoketa Caves Tourist Center, and spending time with her family. Shew was a member of the First Methodist Church, Miriam Circle, AWBA/USBC, Garden Club, Eastern Iowa Polka Club, New Hope Support Group of DeWitt, Preservation Society of Moline and Moline Viking Club. She was a past member of the NEA/EEA, NIVA, Delta Pi Epsilon-Alpha Tau and Alpha Phi chapters, and East End Boulders Club and Moose Lodge #235 in East Moline and many years ago, a Cub Scout Den Mother. Also served on the Jackson County, Iowa Planning & Zoning Commission for nine years.
Mary is survived by her four children: Byron (Susan) Mether of East Peoria, Illinois, Lynda (Dean) Martin of Monticello, Iowa, Gordon (Tari) Mether of Naples, Florida, and Barton Mether of Amherst, Wisconsin; four grandchildren, Derek and Jeremy (Byron) Mether, and Jacquelyn Dehn and Bruce (Lynda) Martin; five great grandsons; Dalton (Jacquelyn) Dehn, Austin, Carter, Bentley and Wyatt (Bruce) Martin and two great granddaughters, Autumn and Harper (Austin) Martin; and many thoughtful and loyal friends.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents and grandson Seth (Gordon) Mether and a special friend James Merrick. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Hospice of Dubuque or Stonehill Communities.
Memorial services will be held at Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa, on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 11 A.M. with burial in the Cascade Protestant Cemetery, Jones County, Iowa. Visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10 to 11 A.M. at the funeral home.
Online Condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.
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Jimmie L. Butcher
Jimmie L. Butcher, 85, of Farley, Iowa, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque, Iowa, surrounded by his family.
Visitation for Jim will be held from 2 to 7 p.m., Sunday, August 24, 2025 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Visitation will also continue after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.
Services for Jim will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 25, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Steven Garner presiding. Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.
Jim was born January 14, 1940 in Leon, Iowa, son of Clarence R. and Sarah (Akes) Butcher. He is a graduate of Leon High School. On July 1, 1961 he was united in marriage to Norma J. Besler at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.
Jim was a very hardworking man, and very attentive to detail a perfectionist in his trade. He was employed at Flexsteel Furniture in Dubuque, Iowa for over 44 years as a foreman, he also did upholstering on the side and did charitable upholstering for the community, he made pager holders for the fire department, covered the chairs on the alter, covered the school bus seats.
He was a devoted to his family, they were his pride and joy. He enjoyed attending the many sporting events of his grandchildren being their “greatest fan”. Jim was an avid pool player often referred to as the “Silver Fox”.
He is a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife of 64 years, Norma Butcher of Farley, IA; his four children, Becky (Mike) Gansen of Peosta, IA, Barb (Dave) Schmitt of Farley, IA, J.J. (Monique) Butcher of Epworth, IA and Brian Butcher of Burleson, TX; 11 grandchildren; 13 great grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; four siblings, Jack (Joan) Butcher of Monticello, IA, Debbie Osterkamp of Dubuque, IA, Mary Palmer of Des Moines, IA and Patti Feller of Dubuque, IA; and a sister-in-law, Pam Butcher and a brother-in-law, Allan Gloeckner both of Dubuque, IA.
He is preceded in death by a daughter, Lisa Butcher in 2015; his parents; one brother, Chuck Butcher; one sister, Bonnie Gloeckner; and a brother-in-law, Paul Feller.
An online video tribute may be viewed and online condolences sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com
The family of Jimmie would like to thank the Farley volunteer Emergency Medical Services and the staff of Stonehill Care Center for the care and kindness extended to him and our family.
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James Anderton
James Anderton, 90, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Wednesday August 20, 2025, surrounded by family.
A visitation will be held Sunday August 24, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road. A wake service will follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place in Union Cemetery Maquoketa, Iowa at a later date.
Jim was born January 24, 1935, in Levasy, MO., the son of James and Leona (Hughes) Anderton. He served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1963. Jim married Olive “Ollie” Boyington on February 25, 1961.
He worked as a tool and die maker at Vulcan Tool in Dubuque and Progressive Tool in Waterloo. Jim was very active in the Maquoketa United Methodist Church in whatever capacity they needed help. Jim was a hard worker, he loved to farm on the side, he loved horses, gardening, music, dancing, playing cards and most of all spending time with his family.
He is survived by his daughters; Lee Ann Kuhle, Wanda (Mike) Meagher, Lori (Laura Taylor) Hollingshead, and Rebecca Formenti; grandchildren Elizabeth, Christopher, Tess, Alex, Joshua, Nicholas, Bradley, Stephen, Michael, Spencer, Alec, Christian, and Gavin; great grandchildren Megan, Kendyl, Jacob, Liam, Hayden, Corbin, Porter, Morgan, Isabelle, Olivia, Emma, Madison, Charlotte, Jamysen, Bindi, and Oaklynn; sisters Carol Heman and Alice Heman.
Jim is preceded in death by his wife, Ollie Anderton, his parents, granddaughter Meagan Hollingshead, great grandson Jack Hollingshead, brother Tom Anderton, and sister Helen Tilley.
In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established.
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Mary A. Kritz
Mary Alice Kritz, 64, of East Dubuque IL, passed away on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at home surrounded by her family.
Family and friends may call from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 24 at Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will follow in the East Dubuque Cemetery.
Mary was born on December 15, 1960, in Hazel Green WI, the daughter of George and Henrietta (Hoag) Shireman. She graduated from East Dubuque High School with the Class of 1979. On May 15, 1982, she was united in marriage to Eldie C. Kritz in Dubuque IA.
Together, Mary and Eldie owned and operated Eldie’s Marine Inc. in East Dubuque where the family will continue the legacy. The shop was truly Mary’s happy place, where she poured her heart into both the work and the people. She had a gift for taking care of everyone, always making others feel valued and welcome.
Surviving is her husband Eldie, two children Justin Kritz (Alisha Siefker) and Kirsten (Jace) Blackburn, bonus daughters Hannah and Ava Woller, her grandchildren Alexis Kritz, Warren & Lydia Blackburn, and Lucas Fondell, her siblings Amanda March, Ronnie (Donita) Shireman, Donnie (Mary Kay) Shireman, Sherry (Darrell) Kritz, Chris (Michael) Kipp, and Cindy (Robert) Selchert.
She was preceded in death by her father George Shireman, her mother Henrietta (Arthur) Kahelin, and siblings JoAnn Lutes, George Shireman, Jerry Shireman, and Brother-in-law Harold March.
The family wishes to thank Hospice of Dubuque, especially Nurses Jessica and Melanie, for the care provided to the Kritz family’s wife and mother.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©
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Judith K. Putz
Judith Kay (Hopkins-Licht) Putz, 77, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Monday, August 18, 2025, at home, surrounded by her family.
There will be no public visitation. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to be determined. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.
Judy was born on May 11, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Raymond and Maybelle (Clark) Hopkins. She married Jerome C. “Jerry” Putz on February 3, 1990, in Dubuque. He preceded her in death on July 1, 2016.
Judy received an associate’s degree from NICC College in Peosta, IA. She was the former Multiple Listing Coordinator for the Dubuque Board of Realtors.
Judy loved online shopping and her beloved dogs. She loved spoiling Serenity, her very special granddaughter.
Surviving are two daughters, Laura (Kevin) Ruggles of Bellevue, IA, and Mariah (Andrew) Wallace of East Dubuque, IL; two grandchildren, Ryan Ziehlke and Serenity Wallace, and a sister, Joan Steffen of Dubuque, IA.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Maybelle, her husband, Jerry, her son Ken Licht, and her three sisters, Barb Bonner, Miriam DeMascio and Betty Walters.
In lieu of flowers, a Judith K. Putz memorial fund has been established.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com©
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Eric A. Hemmer
Eric Anthony Hemmer, 44, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2025, surrounded by those he loved, after a short battle with small bowel cancer.
Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 25, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 2:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Fr. Robert Gross officiating. Entombment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Eric was born on February 6, 1981, in Dubuque, the son of Tony and Joyce (Hufnagel) Hemmer. He graduated from Hempstead High School in 1999, and later from NICC with a degree in Marketing Management.
Eric married Beth Jaeger on June 18th, 2005, at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Balltown, Iowa. Together they have two children, Andrew and Samuel. Eric worked at Gierke-Robinson as the Dubuque Branch Manager for 23 years. He was an active member of St. Columbkille’s Catholic Church where he served as a Sacristan.
Growing up, Eric was always busy and was never one to sit still. A trait he carried on throughout his life. He loved to go fishing with his dad and play Legos and Nintendo with his brother. In high school his lifelong love affair with guitars began. He would spend countless hours in local guitar shops, eyeing his next purchase. He also made beautiful guitars throughout his life and was a master woodworker. Eric adored his children, Andrew and Samuel. His greatest role in life was Dad. He found so much joy sharing in each of their interests. He would play and talk strategies in Minecraft with Sam and talk for hours about world history with Andrew.
After his last hospitalization in early July, Eric decided to enter Hospice services. Not because he was choosing death, but because he was choosing life. He wanted to spend every moment he had left on this earth with those he loved, doing the things that he loved, and that is exactly what he did. He took road trips with his best friend Morgan to guitar shops, his brother Aaron set up a private movie screening they shared together, he was a guest on his favorite podcast (Guitar Nerds), he took a pontoon ride with Beth and their sons up the Mississippi, built lots of Legos with Sam and chatted about anything and everything with Andrew. He received a daily strawberry lemonade from his friend Andrea, and nightly head rubs from Jessica. He was able to have many more father-son moments with his dad and laugh and reminisce beautiful memories with his mom. Not to mention all the cherished visits from his siblings, brothers and sisters in law, nieces, nephews, and all those who loved him. The pinnacle event being the benefit that was organized in his honor to raise money for Andrew and Sam’s future education, something Eric was incredibly grateful for and gave him so much peace.
Those left to cherish Eric’s memory are too many to count, but include, Beth Hemmer and Jessica Funk of Dubuque, his sons Andrew and Samuel Hemmer, his parents, Tony and Joyce Hemmer of Dubuque, his mother and father-in-law Leon and Connie Jaeger of Dubuque, his siblings Jennifer (Kevin) Wernimont of Dubuque, Angie (Kevin) Anglin of Dubuque, Aaron (Liz) Hemmer of Iowa City. His brothers and sisters in-law, Lynn (Ed) Miller of Dubuque, Ed (Renee) Jaeger of Lake Geneva, WI, Tony (Debbie) Jaeger of Dubuque, Ann (Jeremy) Woeppel of Chambers, NE, Mark (Melissa) Jaeger of Berthoud, CO. He is also survived by his best friend Morgan Keedy of Dubuque, his Goddaughter Rose Woeppel of Chambers, NE and many nieces and nephews whom he loved so very much.
Eric is preceded in death by his grandparents, Ervin and Jean Hufnagel and Betty Hemmer.
Our family would like to especially thank Hospice of Dubuque-Megan, Jesse and Stephanie, for all the care and support they gave him and the family over the last 7 weeks. We will be forever grateful.
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Mary E. Reuland
Mary E. Reuland died peacefully in her sleep Saturday, August 9, two months shy of her 86th birthday. She had fallen and broken her hip a couple weeks earlier, which seemed not what fate would have foretold yet nevertheless seemed to tell her it was time to go. Her husband, Robert J. Reuland, went last year in similar fashion. Both died at a comfortable rest home in the Iowa cornfields with their daughter by their side.
All things considered, it was a dignified end and no one will begrudge her the right to leave. She would have been, if anything, displeased by all the fuss made over her, and likely she would have told us all just to go about our business and not fret too much, but thankfully her sharp wits hadn’t lasted quite as long as her body. A state high school champion guard in her youth, she had always been fit, regularly humiliating her son and his neighborhood friends on the driveway basketball courts of Dubuque, but after her husband Bob passed she was no longer the person her friends and family remembered. Sometimes health or at least physical health is not altogether a blessing, for the body may linger after the mind has gone, so truth be told had Mary not gone the way she did there might be more grief than now, and her passing is the lifting of a weight to all who wished the best for her.
Mary, known to those close to her as Peach, was to those same people simply the best woman they had ever known. Born into a large family of six sisters and (much to the undoubted dismay of her farmer father) but a single son, Peach Snider met Bob Reuland in Ames where he had come from Philadelphia to study nuclear reactors at Iowa State University. She fell in love with the somewhat exotic PhD with the flattop haircut, and the pair often told stories of driving from the laboratory with radioactive samples in the trunk of their borrowed ’54 Chevy. After a brief stint in Dallas, Texas, they returned to Iowa to raise a family in Dubuque. Bob taught chemistry at Loras, while Peach received a bachelor’s and then a master’s degree and taught science to bright Jefferson Junior High middle schoolers who later in life would write her letters of thanks after becoming doctors, for instance.
Peach would have no regrets right now. She lived a wonderful, happy, and fulfilling life, with two children and a passel of grandchildren, regularly flying to France and Italy where Bob would take carefully composed photographs of buildings while Peach would drink wine. After retirement, she threw herself into the Dubuque Arboretum and her growing family. She leaves behind a son in Vermont, Robert, and his wife Renee; a daughter Liz and husband Dave in Wisconsin; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren with two more on the way.
Mary will be missed painfully and remembered lovingly. She made the world a better place by living in it. Nothing greater could be said of anyone. Goodbye, Peach.
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Mary Beth Herrig
Mary Beth Herrig, 56, of Dubuque, IA passed away on August 15, 2025, at Silver Oak Nursing and Rehabilitation Home in Marion, IA with family by her side.
Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. Dubuque where a funeral service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Burial for Mary Beth will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Holy Rosary Cemetery in LaMotte, IA.
Mary Beth was born on September 21, 1968 in Maquoketa, IA, the daughter of Irvin “Sam” and Mary Lou (Durkop) Herrig. She was raised in LaMotte and attended Bellevue Community School. After graduating, she attended NICC where she finished with a book keeping/accounting degree.
Mary Beth was employed with Theisen’s Supply where she worked for 30 years. She loved visiting with people and was an avid Iowa Hawkeye fan. She will be missed by many.
She is survived by her lifelong partner, Daryl Capesius of Springville, IA; siblings, Donna (Jim) Howland of Florida, Kevin (Sabira Nurieva) Herrig of Germany, Diana Bergfeld of Bernard, IA, Ken (Teresa) Herrig of Dubuque, IA, Dave (Amy) Herrig of LaMotte, IA, and Dean, Gene, Elaine and Gerald Herrig all of Dubuque, IA; one nephew and many nieces.
Mary Beth was preceded in death by her parents.
The family of Mary Beth would like to express their gratitude to Jennifer Hohneke, ARNP and each and every person at Silver Oak Nursing and Rehabilitation Home for the exceptional, compassionate and loving care Mary Beth received for the past 13 months.
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John D. Simons
John Dixson Simons, 95, of Dubuque, died Monday, August 11, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care in Dubuque.
The Funeral Service for John will be at 10:00 am Friday, August 29, 2025, at Linwood Cemetery with Pastor Tyler Thomas officiating. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.
John was born October 16, 1929, in Bellevue, IA, the son of Earl and Laura (Stephenson) Simons. On July 23, 1962, he married Sonia Bowman in Hanover, Illinois.
John graduated from Bellevue High School in 1949, and continued his education at Bradley University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering.
He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving during the Korean War era from May 26, 1949 until May 31, 1953 as a radio operator.
John was an industrial engineer at the Savanna Army Depot for 45 years.
He found great joy in the outdoors, whether it was hunting alongside his Uncle Vin, gliding, or spending time fishing. He was also a proud and devoted member of the VFW.
Survivors include his wife, Sonia Simons of Dubuque; three children, Rebecca Simons, Pamela Evans, and John “JB” Simons; three grandchildren, Channel “Nellie” Simons, Zakkery Wasmund, and Thomas Freisinger; and one sister, Donna Zeller.
He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Cecil Simons, and one sister, Mary Eganhouse.
John’s family would like to extend a Thank You to Care Initiatives Hospice and Dubuque Specialty Care for their care.
John will be remembered as a great father, who was always teaching and had a great sense of humor.
Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Crematory is in care of the arrangements.
Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting John’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.
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Patricia L. Kaune
Patricia L. Kaune, 74, of Dubuque, IA, passed away on August 13, 2025, at Ennoble Nursing and Rehabilitation.
There will be a Celebration of Life, on Sunday, August 24, 2025, it will be held at Eagle Point Park, in the Open Air Pavilion, Section A, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. is assisting the family.
Patricia was born on November 28, 1950, in Iowa City, IA, the daughter of Herbert F. and Betty J. (Hartley) Hauth. She received her BA in Business Administration and Economics from the University of Dubuque and was an Instructor at NICC for 13 years. She loved to play cards, read and enjoyed her grandchildren.
She is survived by her children, Tami (Cliff) Kaune, of Zwingle, IA, Jennifer O’Neal and Amber Williams both of Maquoketa, IA, and Paul (Kimberly) Kaune of Cedar Rapids, IA; grandchildren, Taysia, Macormick, Austin, Makayla, Jaecylyn, Nalani and Rhylee; great grandchildren Julian and Anna; sister Shirley Hauth of Dubuque, IA.
Patricia was preceded in death by her parents Herbert and Betty Hauth; brother Skeets Hauth; grandson Paul Harry Kaune III.
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Chester W. Salow Jr.
Chester “Ted” William Salow Jr., 77, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Eagle Pointe Place in Dubuque.
A funeral service will be at 1:00 p.m. Monday, August 25, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. Funeral for both Ted and his wife Ann will be Saturday, August 30, 2025 at Christ the King Catholic Parish, Toledo, Ohio. Visitation in the narthex will begin at 9:30 a.m., with Mass to follow at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be at Toledo Memorial Park, as per their wishes.
Chester was born on February 2, 1948, in Monroe, Michigan, the son of Chester W. and Hazel (Schameltz) Salow Sr. He married his wife Ann Orlowski on April 3, 1977, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Chester was an avid fan of sports and enjoyed going to baseball games. Favorite place was Disney World and best known as Goofy. He loved any and all dogs and cherished having a constant lap buddy.
He is survived by his daughter, Kim (Jason) Sheehy, and three grandchildren Madison, Connor, and Xander.
He was preceded in death by his wife Ann in 2021, his parents Chester Sr. and Hazel, his parents-in-law Clement and Dorothy, step-father-in-law Robert Buehler, brother Terry Salow and brother-in-law Ronald Orlowski.
All memorials are to be sent to the Humane Society or any other animal rescue organization.
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Mark A. Amberg
Mark “Otis” Andrew Amberg, 53, of Dubuque, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, August 16, 2025. His loss leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family and friends who loved him dearly.
Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday August 30, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.
A funeral service will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home with Very Rev. Brian Dellaert officiating. Entombment will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery.
Mark was the beloved son of Sandy and Tony Amberg. He is survived by his parents, his siblings Eric (Amy Noonan) Amberg, Amy Amberg, Andrew Amberg, and Sara Amberg (Alin Muresan), as well as his cherished nieces and nephews: Tom, Cassie (Nick Huseman), and Jenna (Walter Rupert) Amberg; Sophia and Rachel Zurita-Amberg; and Zachary and Jesse Buzzacott. To his family, Mark was not only a son, brother, and uncle, but also a source of endless laughter, warmth, and support.
A graduate of Wahlert High School, Mark later earned a degree in Radiology from NICC. He proudly served patients in Alliance, Nebraska, Clay Center, Kansas, and eventually at the Iowa City V.A. Hospital until his retirement in 2021. Retirement marked the start of a joyful new chapter for Mark, as he returned to Dubuque, where he fully embraced life’s simple pleasures.
Mark had a passion for golf, walking 18 holes at Lacoma Golf Course no matter the weather. He found peace and joy at his home (jokingly called “Butler Cabin South”), which he filled with music, art, history, literature, and the beauty of nature. His backyard became a sanctuary for the deer and squirrels he faithfully fed, and he shared his space with his two beloved cats, Skippy and Pippy, who brought him constant companionship.
Known for his eccentric spirit and sharp wit, Mark was the life of the party, always dressed to impress. He was a jack of all trades and the go-to person whenever anyone needed help—armed with determination, resourcefulness, and often, a little help from YouTube. Mark’s caring and generous nature touched everyone who knew him, and his love for his family was unwavering.
He lived life on his own terms and made it happen. His family finds peace in the fact that he spent his last few years mostly hitting golf balls, strumming the guitar, being with family, and chasing his own happiness. Mark will be remembered for his humor, his creativity, and the unique light he brought to every gathering. His absence will be felt deeply, but the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
In honor of Mark’s deep appreciation for the outdoors and his love of nature, the family kindly asks that friends consider planting a tree in his memory or supporting local conservation efforts in lieu of flowers. By doing so, his legacy will continue to grow and flourish in the places he cherished most.
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