Obituaries Archive

Richard Polfer

Richard “Dick” Polfer, 86 of Peosta passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family May 9, 2024.

A Visitation for Richard will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., Monday May 13, 2024, at Reiff Funeral Home, 894 Peosta Street, Peosta, Iowa 52068.  A visitation will also be held after 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday at the Funeral Home in Peosta.

Services for Richard will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Peosta, Iowa with Msgr. Daniel Knepper presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Paul’s Cemetery in Worthington, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Dyersville American Legion Post #137.

Dick was born December 6, 1937, in Cascade, Iowa, the son of Nicholas and Veronica (Kelchen) Polfer.  On October 22, 1960, he was united in marriage to Jean Leyendecker at Saint Paul’s Catholic Church, Worthington, Iowa.  Richard was employed at Tschiggfrie in Dubuque, Iowa for 30 years.  He also worked for Tegeler’s Body Shop, Nickol Construction, Royal Oaks, and Murphy Construction.

He was a member of St. John the Baptist Parish in Peosta, Iowa.  Dick served in the U.S. Army from 1961-1963.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Jean, six children, Deb (Matt) Harthan of Ventura, Iowa, Eileen Hines of Chandler,  AZ, Al (Joyce) Polfer of Farley, IA, Bob (Kathy) Polfer of Worthington, IA, Brian (Dani) Polfer of Muskego, WI, Jeff Polfer (fiancé Jennifer Lewin) of Worthington, IA; his 10 grandchildren, Brandon Harthan, Blake Hines, Brianna Floyd, Stefani Puccio, Allen Polfer, Nicole Polfer, Samantha White, Zach Polfer, Kaley Polfer & Savanna Lehman; six step-grandchildren, Alex Hassforth, Abbi Hassforth, Jon Combs, Ethan Combs, Dallas Elmer, and Charlee Elmer; his two sisters, Patricia Tauke of Cascade, IA, Janet Funke of Dyersville, IA, and brother Chas (Mary Jane) Polfer of The Villages, FL; his in-laws, Marge Gassmann, Judy Lammers, Linda (Dave) Burger, Steve (Christa) Leyendecker, Mary Leyendecker, Rick (Karla) Leyendecker, and Kathy (Pat) Hayes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nick & Veronica Polfer, mother-in-law Irene (Leyendecker) Till & father-in-law, Silvarius Leyendecker; a son-in-law, Paul Hines; a granddaughter Kaitlyn Polfer; a step grandson, Max Hassforth; a sister, Mary Ann Jaeger; brothers-in-law, Bill Jaeger, Wayne Tauke, Floyd Funke, LeRoy Gassmann, Jerry Lammers, and Nick Wolfe; and sister-in-law Rose Wolfe; and two  nephews, Jeff Jaeger and Jeff Lammers.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque for all the care and support given to Dick and our family.

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

Gary C. Pancratz

Gary “Rock” Charles Pancratz, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa passed into heaven on May 7th, 2024 at home surrounded by his family.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024 at St. Joseph The Worker Catholic Church with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating.  Entombment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery. A Celebration of Gary’s Life will follow the burial at Happy’s Place, 2323 Rockdale Rd, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family.

Gary was born in Dubuque to Charles and Mary Dorothy (McCarthy) Pancratz. He met his wife, Cindy (Zimmerman) while attending Dubuque Senior High School, and they married on February 5, 1977. They have three children and six grandchildren. He worked even harder than he played, and always prioritized his family. He labored professionally in construction, and later roofing and floor installation, but was never too busy to help a friend or family member with anything. Born with “the gift of gab,” Gary’s outgoing personality naturally earned him many friends, whom he routinely referred to by nickname. Everywhere he went he knew someone, and he usually left knowing even more. He loved to tell jokes and knew just how to deliver them. He drew out smiles and laughter from almost every conversation, and generated an entire library of “Garyisms” that will forever be ingrained in the language of his kin.

In his youth, Gary excelled at a variety of sports, including football, wrestling and track. He later greatly enjoyed football season, and particularly watching the Bears and the Hawkeyes. In his free time, he enjoyed gardening and took pride in producing fresh veggies and his annual pumpkins. He loved to tinker and toil with all manners of projects and machines, but most especially his cherished John Deere, as though there could never be a replacement for such a fine piece of equipment. Gary always looked forward to Sunday dinners with his family. He adored his grandchildren, and especially at times when the house was full and chaotic, he would nod his head approvingly and comment, “This is what it’s all about.” After he retired, he discovered that he enjoyed baking. Among the many concoctions he loved to share, his most frequent and memorable dishes (especially for his Grandkiddos) were “Papa’s” bread, chocolate chip cookies, and homemade pizza.

Gary is survived by his wife, Cindy, children Cassie Pancratz (Keith Bechen), Katie (Dave) Barnes, Noah (Lauren) Pancratz, his precious grandchildren, Isaac, Madeline, Taylor, and Alexandra Gukeisen, Everley and Ford Pancratz, siblings Charlene (Robert) Lynch, Emily (Bobby) Fisher, Patty (Jerry) Oberhoffer, an aunt Lillian Kies, life-long close friend Pete Eischeid, and many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Dorothy and infant siblings Daniel, William, and Elizabeth.

Gary’s family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and his staff at Medical Associates Oncology along with Tami and the Hospice of Dubuque team for their loving and gracious care.

A Gary C. Pancratz Memorial Fund has been established.

Donna A. Hudson

Donna Ann (Hemple) Hudson, 78, of Dubuque, IA, peacefully gained her angel wings on November 19th, 2023, at her home in Leesburg, Florida.

Services will be Friday, May 17th with visitation from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM, at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with a short prayer service to follow. Those that wish to attend are welcome to the burial at the East Dubuque Cemetery after the services, to place Donna at her final resting spot – with her husband & son.

Donna was born November 11th, 1945, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of John Hemple & Agnes (Hampton) Lively. She married the love of her life, James (Jim) Hudson on April 25th, 1964, they raised two children together, and cherished 41 years of marriage before Jim’s passing in 2005. Donna worked at numerous establishments around Dubuque including cooking at Loras College, with Jim at the Diamond Jo Casino, & serving at the Dubuque Golf & Country Club. She seemed to know everyone in Dubuque – she could never walk through the grocery store without catching up with at least a few people! Her 78 years were full of spreading love, joy, sarcasm, eye rolls, and sass. She made friends everywhere she went, and lives are better because of it.

She was a woman of many talents & interests. Donna was a master of crocheting sports themed Afghans & adorable baby blankets/clothes, an avid General Hospital fan, and an amazing cook who never measured a single ingredient. Her potato salad, macaroni salad, soups, and desserts were always the best! You would never leave her house hungry. She also loved animals and cared for many cats and dogs throughout her life. They were truly members of her family. She spent the last several years mostly in Florida, since she wasn’t a fan of the cold weather, but made trips back when she could. She was a loving person who always took care of everyone around her. Not a day went by that Donna didn’t talk about how much her family meant to her and how proud she was of her children & grandchildren.

Donna is survived by her daughter, Wanda (Tom) Russett; grandchildren, Jessie (Adam) Rheault, James Hudson III, Jake (Annika) Hudson, Alex Hudson, Alyssa Hudson, & Kaylin Crippes; great-grandchildren, Ellie & Sam Rheault, and Landon Hudson; sister Karen (Roger) Litscher, her beloved companion, Larry Barlow; along with countless other family members and friends she treated like family. She was predeceased by her husband, James Hudson; son, James Hudson II; cherished friend, Colleen Downing; and nephew, Jeremy Litscher, who we have no doubt greeted her at the gates of heaven. Donna will be terribly missed but she left an imprint on our hearts that will never be forgotten.

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

Richard F. Pfohl

Richard F. Pfohl, 84, of Dubuque, died Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, May 13, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Richard will be 10:30 am Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Timmerman officiating. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque.

Richard was born December 16, 1939, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Delbert and Helen (Winders) Pfohl. On April 12, 1969, he married Nancy Avery at the Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA.

Richard graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1958. He worked in the Experimental department at John Deere for 36 years until retiring in 1993.

He was a proud and devoted father and grandfather and enjoyed attending any activities or events his kids and grandkids were involved in.

Richard enjoyed time boating, water skiing, and fishing on the Mississippi River. His parents had a cottage in Guttenberg while he was growing up, so his love for the river began there. Rich also loved cars. His pride and joy was his ’58 Cadillac that he enjoyed taking on car cruises and to Graffiti Nights. He loved drag racing and spending time at the track with his sons. They enjoyed running their Sox & Martin replica drag car as members of the Nostalgia Super Stocks club.

There wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix and he spent many hours on projects in the garage or generously helping any of his kids or friends.

He and his wife loved annual winter travel to the warmer southern and western states where they enjoyed time with family and friends from all over the world.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy; six children, Shellie (Karlin) Pfohl of Golden, CO; Lisa (Rafael) Dominguez of Peosta; Craig (Andrea) Pfohl; Mark (Molly) Pfohl; Laura (Bob) Bies; and Jason (Jody) Pfohl all of Dubuque; 10 grandchildren, Anthony & Andrew Dominguez, Riley Chudik, Megan Pfohl (fiance, Jake Winandy), Andrew & Emma Glennon, Kyle & Luke Bies, and Alex & Morgan Pfohl; two brothers, Gary (Teresa) Pfohl and Paul (Sue) Pfohl; one sister, Juanita (Don) Herbst; one sister-in-law, Jan (Paul) Loes; and several nieces and nephews.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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

James R. Zweibohmer

James R. Zweibohmer, 80, of Sherrill, Iowa passed away on May 6th, 2024 at home with family by his side.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday May 16, 2024, at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, Iowa, with a Wake Service beginning at 3:45 p.m. Additional visitation will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the church from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, Iowa, with Fr. Tyler Raymond officiating. Burial will be in St. John’s Catholic Cemetery in Fort Atkinson, Iowa.

James was born on July 21, 1943, in Decorah, Iowa, son of Greg and Esther (Murray) Zweibohmer. He received his education from De Sales School in Ossian, Iowa. He was united in marriage to Carol Ann Huber on August 29, 1964, at St. John’s Catholic Church in Fort Atkinson, Iowa. He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works in Labor and Assembly for 30 years. James enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and serving as a Boy Scout Leader: He also loved spending time with his cats.

James is survived by his wife Carol, four children Beth Zweibohmer of Dubuque, IA, Jeanette (Mike) Miller of Escondido, CA, Rodney (Judy) Zweibohmer of Farley, IA, and Eric Zweibohmer of Elain, IA; seven grandchildren Jesse Zweibohmer, Curt (Lisbon) Hora, Allen Miller, Reba (Tim) Klein, Isabelle (Luke) Behnke, Andrew Zweibohmer, and Nickolas Behnke; eight great grandchildren Brianna (Bryant), Koltan, Audrina, Tucker, Sam, Justice, Dawson, and Lucas, along with one great great granddaughter Brynlee. Four sisters Lois (Lee) Meinert of Ankeny, IA, Louise Heying of Ossian, IA, Patti Larson of Ionia, IA, and Norma Glass of West Union, IA; two brothers Larry (Connie) Zweibohmer of Charlotte, NC and David Zweibohmer of Cresco, IA, sisters-in-law Mary Lou Zweibohmer of Dubuque, IA, Shirley (Loren) Hauglang of New Hampton, IA, Dorothy Evango of Peyton, CO, and Barb (Ron) Klimesh of Calmer, IA, brothers-in-law Carl (Eileen) Huber of Dike, IA, and Dale (Karen) Huber of Calmer, IA, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Greg and Esther Zweibohmer, parents-in-law  Zeno and Gladys Huber Jr., brother Greg Zweibohmer, sister Catherine in infancy, brothers-in-law John Heying, Mike Evango, and Lyle, and sister-in-law Joann.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James’s name to Camp Albrecht Acres.

Thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Tami, Kim, and Chris, for their care of dad.

Randy J. Ehlinger

Randy Joseph Ehlinger, age 64 of Zwingle, passed away unexpectedly at his home on May 7, 2024.

He was born on January 6, 1960 in Maquoketa, Iowa, the son of Cyril and Avalene (Small) Ehlinger.  He grew up on the family farm south of Bernard, and graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1978, and then spent many years farming and milking cows in the Leisure Lake area. He joined Simon’s Trucking in Farley and spent the rest of his career as a dedicated over the road truck-driver, often spending weeks at a time in his semi on routes across the United States.  Although thousands of miles apart, he always made time to call home and check in on his parents. They always looked forward to his phone calls and hearing about all of the cities and sights he saw along the way.

Those left to honor his memory are his two sisters Sandi (Jeff) Mason and their sons Jack and Ben of Dewitt, Lori (Dave) Serrano II of Davenport, and a brother Lynn (Sharon) Ehlinger and their children Nicholas, Natalie, Nathaniel, Nolan, and Nora of Maquoketa.   Nieces and Nephews Chelsea (Bo) Robinson, Christa (Stephen Runge) Oldham and their families of Davenport, Craig Ehlinger and Tonya Flenker, and their families of Maquoketa. Randy also has great nieces and great nephews, many aunts and uncles, and a brother Greg.

Randy was preceded in death by his parents Cyril and Avalene Ehlinger, brothers Gary and Philip Ehlinger, sister Debra Oldham, and a nephew Keith Oldham.

Randy has been a great friend to many over the years. From those that have known him during his younger years and have stayed lifelong friends to the devoted and caring neighbors.  He always introduced himself and found something or someone that you both had in common. 

He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and right at home! 

As a way to celebrate his life, always remember to have time for “one more”!

The family is honoring Randy’s request and will have a private family burial at a later date from the St. Aloysius Cemetery, South Garryowen, rural Bernard.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be sent to Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 West Pleasant Street, Maquoketa, Iowa 52060 in care of the Randy J. Ehlinger Family.

Online condolences and notes of support of may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Jean A. Harris

Jean A. Harris, 87, of Galena, IL, passed away Sunday, May 5, 2024, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI. A funeral service will be held at noon on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena, where friends may gather after 10 AM until the time of service. The burial will be in Greenwood Cemetery, Galena.

She was born April 8, 1937, in Galena, the daughter of Albert and Bernice (Holland) Harris. Jean graduated in 1957 from Galena High School and got a job at the Jo Daviess County Courthouse, where she worked for one year; then decided on a lifelong career at Kraft Foods, Galena, where she worked as a secretary until her retirement in 1993. After her retirement, she dedicated herself to caring for her mother, Bernice, until her passing in 1999. Although Jean never married and had children, she devoted most of her time to being a wonderful aunt to her nieces and nephews, who all stayed very close to her.

Besides being a loving daughter, sister, and aunt, Jean had many talents. She started to crochet when she was a teen, and it took her two years to complete her first quilt. Since then, she has made many quilts, along with baby clothes. Jean also loved to sew and paint ceramics; at one time, and even had her own kiln. When able she enjoyed traveling and going on shopping trips. She also loved collecting teddy bears, books, movies, stamps, and beanie babies. Jean is remembered for her kindness, gentleness, compassion, fairness, and love.

She is survived by a brother, Charles “Duke” Harris of AZ; sister-in-law, Susan Harris of AZ; three nephews, Chuck Harris, Mike (Sonja) Harris, and Paul Harris, two nieces, Jodi (Jon) Schoenhardt and Cari (Dan) Hulscher, several great-nieces, and nephews and one great-great niece.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, Floyd and Ronald, a niece, Jennifer, aunts, and uncles.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Koenigs, the staff at St. Dominic Villa and AGrace Hospice. Your care and compassion will never be forgotten.

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

Andrew J. Loop

Andrew James Loop, 51, treasured son, brother, spouse and father died by suicide on May 4 at his home. Andrew was beloved by all who knew him.

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, May 10, at Grand View Methodist Church, 3342 John Wesley Dr., Dubuque, and from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, at Grand View Methodist Church. Funeral Services will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, at Grand View Methodist Church, and will be live-streamed.  Rev. Tom Shinkle will officiate. Arrangements are entrusted to Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home.

Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Andrew was the fourth child of Bertrand H. and Shirley M. (Dennie) Loop. He married his queen, Brenda Taylor, on June 28, 1994, the third generation of Taylor’s to be married on that day. They were blessed with a son, Skylar, in 1998.

After graduating from Monticello High School in 1992, he attended the University of Northern Iowa and in his first semester there, he met a lovely lass in the lunch line of Redeker Dining Center. Chaos ensued when he returned for second semester and she no longer worked at lunch time. Luckily, he found her again working the dinner shift. After a disastrous first date with one broken cup holder in his 1992 Chevy Cavalier and one case of food poisoning, he recounted later than he knew she was the one since she came to check on him between classes. He graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 1996. He was a lifelong learner and returned to school and completed his MBA in 2003 through St Ambrose. After moving up and down Highway 20 several times Andy, Brenda and Skylar settled in Wisconsin in 2021. More recently, Andrew had completed more than half of his coursework to obtain a Doctorate in Business Administration and was looking forward to continuing to teach at the collegiate level in his retirement.

Andrew had many adopted dads throughout his life after losing his own father at a young age. One of those adopted dads, Ralphy Muller, inspired Andy’s lifelong obsession with classic cars. Andrew completed restoration of his 1965 Mercury Comet while still in high school and worked off and on over the years as time and money allowed on his father-in-law’s 1955 Chevy pickup and his mentor Ralphy’s 1967 Chevy Camaro. One of his favorite things to do was do burnouts in areas the police didn’t frequent.

Andrew and Skylar spent many years together through Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts all the way through Skylar’s Eagle Scout with Gold Palm. This included trips to the National Jamboree, Okpick, and Philmont. Andy’s favorite methods of cooking were with Dutch ovens and smokers. Andy and Skylar were also avid weightlifters.

Andrew will be remembered as a tireless worker and for his compassion for others. He spent lots of time working with his teams to develop potential and provide advancement opportunities for others. He gave away dozens of copies of StrengthFinders over the years to enable others to find their passions as he had. For 5 years, he mentored veterans returning to civilian work life for American Corporate Partners and also for five years, he was an adjunct professor in Project Management at UNI. He was the first adjunct professor to receive the Distinguished Professor Award in 2021.

Andrew is survived by his wife, Brenda, and son, Skylar as well his favorite mother-in-law Alice. He is also survived by sisters Nancy Walton of Anamosa, Rosie (Blake) Jones of Parkland, Florida, and Deanna (Stephen) Thomas of Marion and brother-in-law Bob Taylor of Knoxville and nieces and nephews, Brandon Walton, Courtney Lee, Ashley Kertels, Hunter and Tyler Volk and great-nieces Lydia, Peyton and Maya.

Andrew was preceded in death by his parents Bert and Shirley Loop, father-in-law Ron, and brother-in-law Mike Palmersheim.

Mary Ann Samarin

Mary Ann Samarin of Dyersville, Iowa passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on April 29th, 2024.

Born in the Bronx, New York and later relocating to Southern California as a teenager with her family, Mary Ann became a schoolteacher. After raising a family and 40 plus years of teaching in the same school district, Mary Ann and her husband Howard retired to Dyersville, Iowa.

Mary Ann’s love of teaching continued into retirement as she would substitute for the Western Dubuque School District.

Mary Ann is survived by her sister Stephanie, son Howard, daughter in law Rochelle, and grandchildren Callie, Jarod, Brandon, and Ava.

Services will be private, but please consider making a donation to your favorite charity or volunteering with your local school district.

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 12^th Ave SW, Dyersville, IA  52040

Louie J. Boekholder

Louie Joseph Boekholder was born May 6th, 2024, at 2:23p.m. and spent two hours completely taking over his mommy and daddy’s heart before Jesus welcomed him home.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 10th, 2024, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church with Louie’s uncle Fr. Joshua Link officiating. Family and friends may gather from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at the church. A private family burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. Online condolences may be left at www.leonardfuneralhome.com

Louie was 6 lbs. 1 oz and 19 inches of pure perfection. He had dark hair with a touch of curls. Louie was a beautiful mix of mommy and daddy, with daddy’s nose and mommy’s chin.

Louie was a fighter. From 9 months in mommy’s belly, to delivery and 2 hours in his parent’s arms, Louie was a resilient little boy. Although his earthly life was short, the impact he made on those who love him is immense. Louie was able to meet those closest to him before he passed, which are memories his family members will cherish forever.

Louie’s life will always be celebrated and cherished. He was an incredible miracle that made his parents so proud. His parents feel overwhelmed with joy and peace knowing Jesus chose them to forever share his name and life. Louie’s life was beautifully orchestrated and lived. He is loved, valued and adored.

Louie will be greatly missed by his parents, Jessica and Carter Boekholder, maternal grandparents Angella and Brian Link of Dubuque, paternal grandparents Amy and Dave Boekholder of Dyersville, uncles Father Joshua Link of Clear Lake, IA, Andrew (Sydney Steffen) of Iowa City, and Bryce Boekholder of Las Vegas, NV, great grandmother Kathy Link of Dubuque, and many extended family members. Louie is preceded in death by great grandparents Wanda and Don Remakel, Richard Link, Irvin and Virgie Singsank, and Fay and Bob Boekholder.

The family would like to thank the care team at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s hospital for their care of Louie. 

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to Abel Speaks, a nonprofit foundation providing support to expecting parents of babies with life limiting diagnosis. https://abelspeaks.org/give/

Marshaun R. Evans

Marshaun Raphael Evans, 49, of Sherrill, IA, passed away on May 3rd, 2024, at home surrounded by his family.

A visitation will be held Friday, May 10th, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, IA.  A funeral service will be held at 5:00 p.m. with Pastors Caren and Eric Susberry officiating.

Marshaun was born June 19th, 1974, the son of Judy L. Lawson and Henry E. Smith.  He attended Hearst Elementary and Kenwood Academy in Chicago, IL.  He received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from The University of Dubuque.

Throughout his 32 years in Dubuque, Marshaun worked various jobs in the community.  He dedicated the last seven years as a community trainer with Goodwill and the last 11 years as paraprofessional with the Dubuque Community School District.

Marshaun brought joy into the hearts of everyone and was loved by so many.  He has left a positive impact on anyone who was blessed with his presence.  Marshaun was truly a family man, he loved spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his grandmother Sallie Smith, his father Henry, aunts Alice Smith and Valerie Smith, uncles Michael Smith and Gabriel Smith, brother Jovan L. Evans, daughters Aaliyah Rochelle Herrion (Rodasta) and Makayla Renee McIntyre, nieces Jalyssa Katera Evans, Jaliyah Latrice Evans, grandchildren Makhai Brendyn McIntyre-Williams, Haiylaa Kaylinn Rose Rodasta, Ja’Kobe Joseph Allen Herrion.

Marshaun was preceded in death by his grandmother Naomi Payne, his mother Judy Lawson, and his sister Gabriella Smith.

The family would like to thank Derek and Tricia Schmidt, Dr. Hermann, Hospice of Dubuque and anyone who has come alongside Marshaun and his family to offer support.

Antonio Lessei

Antonio “Tony” Lessei passed away peacefully with his beloved family by his side, on May 5th, 2024, in his residence at Sunset Park Place.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 9th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Dubuque Memorial Gardens with military honors by American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard.

Tony was born to Tomaso Lisi and Bertha Lehnert in Griffith, Indiana and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Glenwood Military Academy, achieving the position of Cadet Commander. He also excelled in athletics playing varsity Baseball, Football and Basketball. He was proud of his time at Glenwood and felt fortunate to have been a student there.

He attended the University of New Mexico on an athletic scholarship. Tony was a gifted athlete in baseball, football and basketball. However, baseball was his passion.

He was drafted by the US Army in 1959 and honorably discharged in 1962. After his military service, he returned to Chicago and married Sally J. Nowakowski on May 4th, 1963. They had three children, Lisa, Dean and Steven Lessei.

Tony worked for the Milwaukee Rail Road as Lieutenant of Police, serving as a detective from 1962 – 1985.

Sally and Tony divorced and he later married Constance A. Hillard, who had five children. They later divorced.

Tony was an owner of the Tail & Ale restaurant and lounge, the Light House Disco and Later Antonio’s Bar.

Tony loved life and was an extremely kind person. He loved playing fast pitch softball during it’s heyday in Dubuque. He also enjoyed playing cards. Euchre was his favorite and he took it serious, as anyone who was his partner would soon find out.

Tony was an avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. He was a member of the Dubuque “Bears” Club.

He was a driver for the Jule Mini-Bus, offering an alternate transportation option for elderly and disabled passengers in Dubuque. He was kind and caring for his passengers and went out of his way to make them feel special or give them a laugh. He took pride in helping others.

Tony was a survivor, overcoming the many health challenges he faced in life. He was a miracle, grateful and loved life.

On May 14th he was to be travelling to Washington DC aboard the Honor Flight. Unfortunately, he will not get to take that trip.

Tony is survived by his first wife Sally, three children, Lisa, Dean (Danielle), Steve (Amy) Lessei, his cherished grandchildren Savannah, Brooke, Luke, Breanna, Ashley & Cole and six great grandchildren with number seven to arrive in June.

He was preceded in death by his father Tomaso, mother Bertha and his former wife Connie.

Tony will be remembered lovingly for his kindness and caring by all who knew him.

Dad, Grandpa, Great Grandpa Tony…… We Love you forever.

The Lessei Family would like to thank the VA (No Place Like Home) and Hospice of Dubuque (Carrie & Chris).

Memorials: A memorial fund will be established in Tony’s name and distributed to his favorite charities.

Lois M. Olson

Lois M. Olson, age 93, of Dubuque and formerly of Marathon, Iowa, passed away at 10:45 p.m., on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at Stonehill Health Center.  To celebrate Lois’s life, there will be a joint celebration for her and her former husband, Dean Olson, held in the afternoon on June 8, 2024, at the Marathon Community Center, 306 W. Attica Street, Marathon, Iowa.  Burial will be in Poland Township Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home in Dubuque and Sliefert Funeral Home in Marathon are assisting the family.

Lois was born on September 20, 1930, in Carroll, Iowa, the daughter of George and Mildred (Goodwin) Beck.  Sadly George would pass away when Lois was very young, but her mother remarried and she gained a wonderful step-father, Christian Hollinger.

After her father passed away the family moved to Sloan, Iowa where she graduated from Sloan High School, Class of 1949.  Lois went on to earn her Associates Degree from Buena Vista College in Storm Lake and would begin teaching elementary school children until the late 50’s.  In 1957, she married Dean Olson and they had 3 sons.  They enjoyed the outdoors and Lois even learned to ride her own BMW motorcycle becoming an official member of the Silver Wheels Club.  Sadly the marriage ended, but they remained friends until he passed away earlier this year.  Lois was always a woman on the go.  She had many business ventures and hobbies including co-owning and operating the Country Clover Farm Store in Marathon from 1979 until the mid 1980’s, owning an antique store, restoring furniture and candle making.  Lois was also very active in her community and served on the school board and as the Mayor of Marathon for 2 terms.  Eventually Lois would meet her long time partner, Dorothy Hoffmann, and discover a love for the RV life.  Every winter they would load up the RV and head to Apache Junction to enjoy the warm weather and spending time with their friends.  Lois has lived a very full life and loved her family deeply.  She will be greatly missed.

Those left to cherish Lois’s memory include

her 3 sons,
Tim (Chris Happ) Olson, Dubuque, IA,
Greg (Chris Montgomery) Olson, Columbia, MO
and Brad (Karla Finn) Olson, Des Moines, IA;

5 grandchildren,
Emma Olson, Lena Olson, Tess Wilkerson, Curtis (Jennifer) Finn and Brenda (Alan) Hall;

3 great-grandchildren,
Marcus Finn, Bekah Finn and Adilyn Hall;

a niece and 5 nephews.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents and step-father; her life partner, Dorothy Hoffmann; 3 sisters, Shirley (George) Davis, Barb (Richard) Leth and Christine (Al) Soukup; a nephew, Rick Leth; and her former husband, Dean Olson.

Lois’s family would like to thank her friends at The Rose for the past 9 years, and the nurses and staff of Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for the support and kindness they have given to Lois.

The family will thankfully receive your support through greeting cards and memorials in Lois’s memory which may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Lois Olson Family.

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

Deanna Kane

Deanna Kane, age 67, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on May 5, 2024, at home, while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Deanna’s life, a private family service will be held at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Deanna’s family.

Deanna was born on July 13, 1956, in Dubuque, IA, a daughter to Harold and Anna Mae (Halfhill) Thimmesch.  She was blessed with three sons, Terry, Mark and Kevin Kane and sadly discovered an entirely new level of heartache when she lost her son, Mark in 2016.

Deanna spent many years working at the Harmony Care Facility until her eventual retirement in September of 2023.  In her free-time, Deanna loved to go shopping as well as spending time at her craft table working on her latest projects.  She was gifted with a knack for decorating her home and everyone who stopped by to visit always found it to be warm and inviting.

Christmas was undeniably her favorite time of the year, especially when shopping and picking out the perfect gifts for her grandchildren.  Deanna did enjoy venturing out to the casino from time to time to try her luck at the slots, but all who knew and loved Deanna were fully aware that her most precious memories where always to be found in the time she spent with her children and grandchildren.

We will miss Deanna dearly and treasure every wonderful memory that she leaves behind for us.  Thank you, Deanna, for always sharing your love without hesitation and we pray that the Lord grants you eternal peace now after your courageous battle with cancer.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Deanna include,

her two sons,
Terry (Katie) Kane, Dubuque, IA,
and Kevin Kane, Dubuque, IA;

her seven grandchildren, all of Dubuque, IA;

her father,
Harold Thimmesch, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Deanna was preceded in death by her mother, Anna Mae Thimmesch; and her son, Mark Kane.

Deanna’s family would like to thank Dr. Hermann, Tony Heiar ARNP, along with the nurses and staff at Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their professional and loving care of Deanna.

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

Orval M. Fleckenstein

Orval M. Fleckenstein, 93, of Dubuque, passed away Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Stonehill Communities where he resided for the past 16 years.

Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m., then followed by Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, May 17, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Rd., Dubuque, IA. Rev. Dustin Vu will officiate. Interment will be in Resurrection Cemetery, Asbury.

Orval was born September 29, 1930, in Dubuque, the son of Ralph and Marie (Rueter) Fleckenstein. He married Mary Donnelly on October 8, 1955, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Dubuque. She preceded him in death on November 9, 2007.

Orval graduated from Loras Academy and was ranked as one of the best basketball players in the state. In 1948 he was All-State Boys Basketball Selection 5th Team. He also received an All-Tournament Second Team.

He was last employed for many years in sales with Banworth & Udelhoven. He enjoyed working with all his customers and had wonderful memories of his years there. He worked to sacrificially give his children a private faith-based education. He was a member of the Church of the Resurrection. As a man of faith, he prayed daily for his family and saw many prayers answered including his personal prayer that the Lord wouldn’t take him during football season!

Orval was indeed a family man. Weekends were reserved for Sunday family meals with his parents, family picnics with basketball and baseball lessons and also winter sleigh-riding. He enjoyed watching many sports on TV. He was known to be an advocate for his children, frequently calling out the refs for missed calls at their sporting events. He was a Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers fan. He had recently switched his football support to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Orval’s Reese’s peanut butter cups, his wife’s daily homemade desserts, Suzy Q cakes (really chocolate in any form, at any time, on every occasion), daily cigars, big band music and US history books were just a few of life’s little pleasures he enjoyed.

He taught the importance of paying it forward. Share your gifts. Bless others with what you have. He always supported his church and routinely gave to many organizations for the poor and disadvantaged. His family has carried on these traditions. A truly humble and loving man, Orval will be greatly missed but his legacy will continue to live on through the seeds he sowed in his family lineage.

Orval is survived by his children, Mary Jo (Dave) Ayers, of Dubuque, Kathleen (Rod) Smith of New Castle, PA, Joe (Karen) Fleckenstein, of Peosta, Tom Fleckenstein, of Dubuque, David Fleckenstein, of Haslet, TX, and Anne (Michael) Burke, of Cortland, IL; 14 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren with one due in August, 1 step grandson, and 2 step great-great grandchildren, his sister, Mary Ann Clemens and sisters in law Louise Donnelly & Julie Donnelly.

In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Ray (Helene) Fleckenstein and Jim Fleckenstein, brother in laws William Donnelly Jr and Jim Donnelly, and a nephew William Donnelly III.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Childrens Hospital, Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque County Right to Life or Hospice of Dubuque.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Chris Stille, Assisi Village Staff, Stonehill 2SE Staff and Hospice of Dubuque for the kind, compassionate care they gave to Dad.