Obituaries Archive

Mark Edmonds

Mark was born March 23, 1957, to Charles and Anna Mae Edmonds. He grew up south of Galena on Rocky Hill Rd. with his 9 siblings. Mark was an undeniably passionate man in many ways, he established himself first and foremost as not only a musician, but a music lover. You could catch him circling live music listings in the paper each week while always having his harmonicas in his truck just in case.

His advocacy for his community and live music made him a well-known subject around many local towns, always excited and encouraging about artistic endeavors. Aside from music, he was an enthusiastic gardener and could be known to leave vegetables or canned goods at your place once he left. Mark was an incredibly kind human being that affected many, many people that were lucky enough to know him.

Mark endured an 18-month battle with cancer which he fought courageously; however, the cancer ultimately took him from this earth. 

He is survived by his son, Colin (Sophia); brothers Dave, Dennis (Joyce), Richard, Tim, Scott(Laura), Jeff; his sister Becky (Tom) Ructi; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He is proceeded in death by his father Charles, mother Anna Mae, his brothers Charlie (Dianne) and Greg (Clarene).

We would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Mercy of Dubuque, and the University of Iowa Hospitals. 

As per Mark’s request a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date with family, friends, and of course music. 

Online condolences for Mark’s family may be left at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Patricia C. Dontje

Patricia C. Dontje, 79, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue, Iowa.

Patricia Carol Heitland was born on November 8, 1944, in Iowa City, Iowa, to George “Joe” and Ruth (Fisher) Heitland.  She grew up in Buffalo Center, Iowa and was a graduate of Buffalo Center High School and then furthered her education at college.  She married Gary A. Dontje on October 31, 1970 in Buffalo Center, Iowa.  A son Travis was born to this union.

Patricia always stayed busy and had worked various jobs throughout her life including working for North Central Human Services, Waldorf College, Village Chateau, Casey’s in Garner, Iowa and Delmar, Iowa, and for MJS Cleaning Company. 

She enjoyed crossword puzzles, was an avid reader, and was an animal lover of both cats and dogs.  She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and close friends.

Those left to honor her memory include a son, Travis (Emily) Dontje of Maquoketa, IA; 4 grandchildren, Krystin, Gracie, Zachary, and Charisma; siblings, Janell (Ivan) Heidecker of Lacota, IA, Diane (Bill) Mountain of Mankato, MN, and Terry Heitland of FL; brother-in-law, Harlan Meltz of Buffalo Center, IA; sister-in-law, Adelia Heitland of Des Moines, IA; and special friend, Carol Hunt of Maquoketa, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Gary on March 4, 2012, sister Connie Meltz, and two brothers, Greg Heitland, and infant Dennis Heitland.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There are no public services planned at this time.  A private family burial will be held at the Olena Mound Cemetery, Buffalo Center, Iowa.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Please feel free to leave notes of condolence, and words of comfort and support on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com. 

Deryl Ernster

Deryl “Buddy” Ernster, 92, of Asbury, died Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the Luther Manor in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am until 11:15 am Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Funeral Service for Deryl will be 11:30 am Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque.

Deryl was born November 2, 1931, in Dubuque, the son of  Harry and Emma Hinzman Ernster. On July 23, 1955, he married Margaret Thul at St. Philomena Catholic Church in Asbury, IA. She passed away on November 15, 1985.

He was a U.S. Army Veteran, serving as a sergeant during the Korean War. He was a recipient of a Purple Heart.

Buddy was a union painter for over 70 years and was a member of the Painters Local Union #447. He was a mechanic and woodworker and loved tinkering around in his garage.

Survivors include one son, Duane (Tami) Ernster of Dubuque; two daughters, Denise Reeve of Dubuque, and Susan Ernster FSPA of LaCrosse, WI; three granddaughters, Sara Ernster, Emily Ernster, and Marie Ernster; and one brother, Harry Ernster, Jr. of Dubuque; sister-in-law, Darlene Wubben; brothers-in-law, Willie Thul and Ray (Pat) Thul.

Besides his parents and his wife, he was preceded in death by two sons, Eric and Neal Ernster, one son-in-law, Mark Reeve, two sisters, Gloria (Jerry) Steil and Gayelle (Leroy) Blum, two brothers-in-law, Leonard Thul and Vernon Wubben, and one sister-in-law, Joyce Thul.

The family thanks Hospice of Dubuque, Luther Manor, and Dr. Sullivan, who was with us through the entire journey, for caring for Buddy.

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

Gerald A. Riniker

Gerald A. “Jerry” Riniker, age 83, of Durango, IA, completed his earthly journey on March 31, 2024, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  Per Jerry’s wish, there will be no public service.  However, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jerry’s family.

Jerry was born on November 23, 1940, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Mathew V. and Marie R. Riniker.  He was truly blessed to spend his entire 83 years of this life on the family farm which he considered to be home on every level.  Jerry was a proud graduate of the Loras Academy where he completed his ROTC training and went on to honorably serve his country with the U.S. Navy.  He met the love of his life, Judith A. Walsh at the Melody Mill and they were united in marriage on August 25, 1962.  They were blessed with three children of their own raising the next generation on the family farm.  There were countless wonderful memories that we have from dad as he worked so hard instilling in all of us an incredible work ethic always reminding us, “an idle mind is a devil’s workshop”.  Even spending winters in Aho, AZ, for over twenty years in retirement; Jerry’s heart never left the farm as he spent over a decade working for Flynn Ready Mix and the Dubuque Community School District as a bus driver.

Jerry always had a smile on his face and made countless friends throughout his life.  A little socializing with family and friends with a cold cocktail in hand were always a welcome addition to any day.  Throw a little Willie Nelson in the background and Jerry would say life was good and how could it possibly get any better.  He was naturally gifted; Jack of all trades you might say, he believed we should do it ourselves as “home is where we hang our hats.”  Never backing down from a good challenge and a chance to show off his skills including a little woodworking, crafting bird houses, nativity scenes, and cabinets.

It is a lesser world today without Jerry’s physical presence.  Thankfully, the love and lessons he leaves behind, along with his spirit of excellence will be clearly visible in the lives of all who knew and loved him.  Thank you, Jerry, for living a complete and honorable life as a true reminder to all who found their way into your world that life does not intrinsically require complications, but rather only a simple acknowledgment of the things which truly matter. We will miss you more than words could ever depict and now wait patiently to be reunited with your joyful spirit once again. 

Surviving family members: his loving wife of 61 years, Judith A. Riniker, Durango, Iowa; his three children, Tammy (Keith) Kloser, Durango, Iowa, Geraldine “Geri” (Michael Johnson) Schilling- Johnson, Dubuque, Iowa, and Patrick “Pat” (Sarah) Riniker, Napa, Idaho; his fifteen grandchildren, Amanda (Matt) Kloser, Audrey (Josh) Rawson, Adam (Hannah) Kloser, Sydnie (special friend Seth) Schilling, Spencer Schilling, Kenny (fiancé Brittany) Johnson, Calvin Johnson, Addison Johnson, Samantha (Eugene) Butler, Chris (Kabrina) Riniker, Jack (Heather) Riniker, Matt Riniker, Hannah (Jacob) Kosmann, Isaac Riniker, and Evie Riniker; his nine great-grandchildren; his sister, Rose Marie (Mervin) Theill, Dubuque, IA; along with numerous extended families, friends, and neighbors.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter in infancy, Susan Mary Riniker; a sister, Karen (Jerry) Smith; and a brother, Mathew Riniker, Jr.

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

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

Bruce R. Howes

Bruce R. Howes, age 70, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 2, 2024, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Bruce’s life, a Memorial Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Monday, April 8, 2024, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street, with Rev. Dennis Quint and Rev. Daniel Knepper officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:00 – 10:30 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Dubuque Memorial Gardens Cemetery at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bruce’s family.

Bruce was born on May 23, 1953, a son to Robert and Ann (Bernhard) Howes.  He was a good and decent man who spent his years among us in unwavering devotion to his family, friends, and faith life.  Bruce was united in marriage to his soul-mate, Laura M. Schadle, in 1995, and the couple was blessed with many wonderful years together and blessed with an abundance of memories which will thankfully last until we meet him again.  He spent his working years providing for his family with Arby’s and finally retired from his position of General Manager in 2012.  He always took great pride in his work as well as the friends he made along the way.

Bruce was a faithful servant to the Lord in his free-time.  He spent countless hours serving and assisting in many different capacities at Cathedral as well as with the ministry at St. Vincent de Paul.  He was also blessed to make two separate mission trips to El Salvador where he was able to bring his love and devotion directly into the lives of those less fortunate.  Bruce made a conscious effort to make the world a better place wherever the opportunities arose.  His commitment to his fellow man was continually on display and anyone who made their way into Bruce’s inner circle knew without a doubt the upright condition of his heart and mind on any given day.  We are going to miss Bruce and his unended devotion to others moving forward, but we are also grateful for the ability to retain the excellent example and legacy he leaves behind for us to follow.  Thank you, Bruce, for simply being you each and every day and may the Lord grant you eternal peace and serenity until we see your humble and bright soul once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Bruce include: his beautiful bride of 29 years, Laura Howes, Dubuque, IA; his two children, Aaron Howes, Dubuque, IA, and Jesse Howes, Dubuque, IA; his grandchildren; his great-grandson; his siblings, Paul (Barb) Howes, Dubuque, IA, and Sandra (Ed) Hall, Grand Junction, CO; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

Ronald K. Blackburn

Ronald K. “Ron” Blackburn, age 64, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on April 2, 2024, at home while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Ron’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Ron’s family.

Ron was born on August 27, 1959, in Rockford, IL, one of nine children to Raymond H. and Marilyn A. (Turner) Blackburn.  He was raised to possess a strong work ethic, but also understood the value of free-time and the proper use of it in order to have a fulfilling and successful life.  Ron was a union carpenter by trade and spent countless hours on many projects in the area.  He always took great pride in his achievements and found true joy every time he ventured around town and reflected on the tangible display of his time and talents that so many others were able to use and enjoy.

Ron also knew quite well that when the workday was done, life still had time remaining to be savored.  He was an outdoorsman at heart and any opportunity to get a fishing pole in his hands, or even to simply relax while cooking out, or sit around the campfire with family and friends while watching and listening to the birds surrounding him was always considered time well spent.  He also never missed the chance to join in his favorite pool and bowling leagues when invited.  His skills were undeniable, but many would say it was ultimately the socializing which Ron truly cherished. He was also no stranger to a friendly game of cards on the table, and if the company was so inclined, a few hours challenging anyone willing to test his abilities on the board game of choice was always an option.  All in all, Ron was up for anything where he could fellowship with those he loved and cared for.  Ron was an intrinsically strong-willed character who never surrendered and always gave his best in any and all situations, and his last battle with cancer till the very end was no exception.  We are going to miss his larger-than-life personality, his drive and determination, and will never forget all of the lessons he leaves behind now.  Thank you, Ron, for continually leading by example, always being true to yourself, and for never leaving anyone in doubt of where you stood.  May the Lord grant you peace this day and may our heart find comfort in time as we wait patiently to see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Ron’s include: his three children, Danny (Patricia) Blackburn, La Moille, IL, Tony Grotti, IL, and Carissa (C.J. Miller) Blackburn, Dubuque, IA; his seven grandchildren, Seth, Lillian, Leland, Bri, Andrew, Matteo, and Adelynn; his great-grandson, Conrad; his siblings; along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents.

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

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

Douglas O. Hussa

Douglas O. Hussa, 67, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at home.

Douglas Oscar Hussa was born on August 5, 1956 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, to Oscar Joseph and Eleanor Mary (Jones) Hussa.  He was a graduate of Bangor, Wisconsin High School, and then attended the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse, and Western Wisconsin Technical Institute.  He married Eda Judith Estrada on November 29, 2021 in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Douglas had worked for many years as the district manager for American Building Maintenance Industries (ABM).

Those left to honor Doug’s memory include his wife, Eda Hussa of Maquoketa, IA; children, Joshua Douglas Hussa Asturias of Houston, Tx, Erika Anna Maria Hussa Asturias of Houston, TX, and Jalilee Hussa Estrada of Guatemala City, Guatemala; and siblings, Dean Hussa of La Crosse, WI, Kay (Mark) Kastenschmidt of Bangor, WI, Paul Hussa of Minneapolis, MN, and Ann Hussa of Northfield, MN.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother Kenneth Floyd Hussa.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  There are no public services planned at this time.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Please feel free to leave notes of condolence, and words of comfort and support on the funeral home website at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Anna J. Drees

Anna J. Drees, 95, of Dyersville passed away Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Hawkeye Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 9 – 10:30 am on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Kramer Funeral Home in Dyersville prior to funeral mass.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 am at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Philip Agyei will officiate.

Anna was born on November 27, 1928, in Farley, Iowa, the daughter of Bernard and Frances (Miiller) Klostermann.  She married John F. Drees on October 3, 1951, in Worthington, Iowa.  Together they raised their family and farmed just west of Dyersville until John passed away in 1979.  Anna enjoyed quilting and crocheting, creating treasures for her family.  She also enjoyed her flower gardens, puzzles, bingo, euchre and trips to the Casino’s.  She made many wonderful memories with her special friend, Ray Schmuecker.  Anna adored her grandchildren and loved playing games and making their favorite treats.

Survivors include her children: Jean (Dean) Recker of Manchester, Ron (Nancy) Drees of Earlville, Kevin Drees of Dyersville, John “Jack” (Joan) Drees of Colesburg; 10 grandchildren: Tracey, Kelli, Timmy, Jason, Jeremy, Jayme, Danny, Rachel, Jessica and Jon; 21 great grandchildren; long-time companion, Ray Schmuecker and his children: Tammy, Tom and Ann; and a brother, Don (Donna) Klostermann of Farley.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, one son, Gary Drees, daughter-in-law, Colleen Drees, granddaughter, Rebecca “Becky” Drees, 2 sisters: Mary Jane Klostermann in infancy and Gertrude (Earl) Urbain and many in-laws.

We would like to thank the Ellen Kennedy Center, Hawkeye Care Center & Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care of Anna.

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.

Andrea Ryan

Andrea “Andy” (Lynch) Ryan, 72, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2024, at Stonehill.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a prayer service at 12:45 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, April 8, 2024, at St. Joseph Key West Church with Msgr. Thomas Toale officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Andrea was born on March 15, 1952, in Hazel Green, WI, the daughter of Garland and Mercedes (Bussan) Lynch. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964. She married William “Bill” Ryan on February 23, 1974, in Dubuque, IA. She was a member of St. Joseph’s Key West parish.

Andrea helped manage R&R Plumbing and Heating, the family farm, and was a retired employee of Flexsteel Industries, where she dedicated many years of hard work.

Andrea was a strong woman! She was known for her passion for sewing, baking, cooking, and gardening. She enjoyed watching western shows and going for Can-Am rides with her companion friend John. Her warm smile and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Family members left to mourn her loss include her four children: Toby (Jamie) Ryan, Peosta, IA Erica (Gary) Borgerding, Key West, IA, Ben Ryan (significant other, Amy Crawford), Palm Harbor, FL, and Gordon (Lorlie) Ryan, Dubuque, IA. Andrea was cherished by her loving companion, John Marshall. She has nine grandchildren:  Levi, Trent, and Aunna Ryan; Taylor and Ryan Borgerding; Inara and Niall Ryan; and Gavin and Wyatt Ryan. Andrea is also survived by her sister Patricia “Patty” Hendricks (Dubuque, IA) and Nicolette “Nikki” McDermott (Dubuque, IA), and sister-in-law, Kay Steuck (Dubuque, IA), and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her husband, William “Bill” Ryan; her parents Garland & Mercedes; and in-laws, Joseph and Alice Ryan.  Her brother, Gordon Lynch, and other family members, Eileen and Ted Beaves, Ron Hendricks, Paul and Geri Ryan, Ray and Gail Ryan, and Robert Steuck.

“Though her presence is no longer with us, Andrea’s love and memories will forever remain in our hearts.”

The family would like to thank the staff at Grand River Medical, Unity Point-Finley, the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Stonehill, and Hospice of Dubuque for the outstanding care provided.

Patricia A. Omberg

Patricia Ann Omberg, 92, of Galena, IL passed away March 31st, 2024.

She was a graduate of Pecatonica High School, St Anthony Hospital School of Nursing, University of IL Research Hospital.

Her career included Litchfield Memorial Hospital in Minnesota, Rockford Memorial Hospital for more than 25 years as staff nurse and Chief Nurse of Coronary Intensive Care.

Patricia was a member of the DAR – Daughters of the American Revolution. She spent her summers with her family at her beautiful lake home in Minnesota. She enjoyed cooking & entertaining family and friends. She was also the co-owner with her daughters of Carlotta’s Boutique in Rockford, IL for 22 years, and enjoyed her winters in Galena, IL for the past 17 years. She touched many lives in her 92 years.

Survivors include her brother Roger Karsk, Jr (Sharon), her children Carla Coppotelli, Caryn Christensen, Eric Omberg (Pauline), Granddaughter Cassandra, Great-Grandchildren Cortni and Jacen. She will also be missed by numerous nieces, nephews and other family members.

Preceded in death by her husband Donald Omberg, Sister Nancy Hachmeister, Parents Roger & Irene Karsk. And her grandson Nicholas Christensen.

Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa is assisting the family.

A Celebration of her life will be announced as soon as possible via leonardfuneralhome.com. 

Judith C. Simundson

Judith Clara Simundson beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of the community, peacefully passed away on March 29, 2024 at the age of 80 at Apostolic Christian Home of Roanoke, Illinois.

A visitation and reception in Judith’s honor will be held at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 Kennedy Road on April 13, 2024 from 2 to 4pm.

Born on August 23rd, 1943 in Minot, North Dakota, she leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and inspiration.  A devoted mother to her sons, Erik and Peter, Judith instilled in them the values of compassion, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Throughout her life, Judith adorned the world with her multifaceted talents. She was a gifted singer, captivating storyteller and folklorist, eloquent poet, accomplished author, and talented musician. Her artistry touched the hearts of many and will continue to resonate for generations to come.

Judith had a passion for the Arts, particularly traditional Scandinavian and Norwegian music, stories, and dances, which she performed around the world.

She was also a dedicated educator and taught Speech, English, and Creative Writing in California, Massachusetts, Louisiana, Iowa and Florida. She made an immense impact on those she taught, nurtured their imaginations and empowered them to express themselves with confidence and creativity.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Judith was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, and infectious laughter. She enriched the lives of those around her with her kindness, wisdom, and boundless love.

Judith was preceded in death by her sister, Marilyn and her brother, David. She is survived by her son Peter, her son Erik, his wife Erin, and her grandson, Oskar.

As we bid farewell, let us take solace in the cherished memories we shared with her and find comfort in knowing that her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her dearly.

May she rest in eternal peace.

John P. Sturman

John P. Sturman, 90, passed away March 27, 2024 in New Bern, NC.  A graveside committal service will be held 1 pm Saturday, April 6, at Linwood Cemetery, Dubuque, where military rites will be accorded. A livestream of the service can be viewed at www.egelhofsiegertcasper.com.

Born in 1933 in Minneapolis, MN, John attended grade school there through the 7th grade. In 1945, his father was transferred to Dubuque, Iowa, where the remainder of his formal schooling took place. He graduated from the University of Dubuque in 1958 with a business degree.

He entered Army military service in 1955 spending two years in Heidelberg, Germany, before returning to finish university. Following graduation he worked in industry for 5 years. Then an opportunity came to go in the USAF Officer Training School. Upon completion, he was sent for training in Transportation. Subsequent overseas tours the next 21 years took him to Newfoundland, Japan, Thailand and Africa. Stateside tours were in South Carolina, Texas, New Jersey, Washington and California. He was named an Outstanding Transportation Officer in 1968 and retired as a Major in 1982 with over 27 years active and Reserve military time.

Because he was married to a Swiss citizen, he was able to acquire Swiss citizenship and was a dual citizen, United States of America and Switzerland.

His family moved to New Bern, NC, upon retirement where he owned and operated Bern Bear Gifts for 40 years. A lifelong Presbyterian, he attended First Presbyterian Church in New Bern and was active in the church throughout his life. He was a life member of the Retired Officers Association, the Air Force Association, and a member of VFW, the Downtown Business & Professional Association, the Chamber of Commerce and the New Bern Golf & Country Club. In this City, he was responsible for starting the Alpenverein Social Club in 1985, the Annual Sunday Jazz Showcase in 1990, and was the Chairman of the de Graffenried Memorial Committee which planned and implemented a bronze bust of Baron Christopher de Graffenried, New Bern’s Swiss founder in 1710. He was made an Honorary de Graffenried in 1992 for his assistance to the de Graffenried Association during their annual meetings in New Bern and for his outstanding efforts to share the original heritage of this City.

Surviving are his devoted wife Hanna, his only child, daughter Janna Lenore Sturman Harton with husband Dr. Jonathan Harton of Albany, NY, and their two sons Joshua Harton (Kellia) of Durham, NC, and Jeremy Harton, of Albany, New York. Two siblings remain, sister Marjorie Beil (Richard) in Minnetonka, MN, and Robert in Nashua, NH and Dubuque, IA.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Capital Campaign Fund of First Presbyterian Church, PO Box 1069, New Bern, NC 28563.

Josh W. Miller

Josh W. Miller, 47, of Bellevue, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at MercyOne in Dubuque. Funeral Service will be 10:30 am, Friday, April 5, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Bellevue. Visitation will be 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm, Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Hachmann-Mier Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Bellevue, additional visitation will be 9:00 am – 10:00 am, Friday, prior to Services at funeral home. Burial will be in St. Joseph’s Catholic Cemetery in Bellevue.

Josh was born January 16, 1977 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Darlis Miller and Kay Marshall. He graduated from Preston High School in 1996. Josh married Trina Hoppenjan on May 6, 2000. He was a maintenance Manager at Tri-State Industries in Dubuque. Josh enjoyed spending time with family and friends, camping, side-by-side rides, facetime calling family and friends, and always bringing laughter and joy to those around him. Josh was known for his specific quirks such as joking around, pulling everyone on the dance floor, always having spotless vehicles, and that when the “good” truck was out, it was a special occasion. He enjoyed watching numerous sports games and Tik Tok’s in his “Big Daddy ” chair with Trina by his side in her “Big Momma ” chair. He was a fix-er-upper, problem solver, mechanic, but most of all a caring, loving, heartwarming husband, father, brother, son, uncle, and friend. When coming to shed festivities you were greeted with Josh directing parking and always sent out with a big hug and a “Love you kiddo”. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife, Trina; daughters, Kourtney Hoppenjan, and Kailey (Ty Parker) Miller; his father, Darlis Miller; mothers in-law, Renee Hoppenjan, and Mary Kaye (Bob Winckler) Vosberg; step-father, Joe Hipschen; siblings, Jennie (John) Hager, and Jiah (Todd) Sieverding; brothers in-law, Jason Hoppenjan and Dylan Winckler; sister in-law, Naomi (Brad) Feldott; nieces and nephews, Aubrie, Aunika, Austin, Atlee, Brecken, Brexley, Jackson, Joey, and Millie; numerous extended relatives and close friends.

Josh was preceded in death by his mother, Kay (Miller) Hipschen; his father in-law, Bob “Hoppy” Hoppenjan; maternal grandparents, Bob and Dorothy Marshall; paternal grandparents, Wesley and Fern Miller; his God Father, David “Whitey” Miller; an uncle, Joe Marshall; and his cousins, Kyle and Daniel Miller.

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

Paul G. McAndrews

Paul G. McAndrews, age 89, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at 11:45 a.m., on April 1, 2024, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To honor Paul’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at Mary Frances Clarke Chapel, Mt. Carmel Bluffs, 1040 Carmel Drive.  The Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, April 6, 2024, with Msgr. Thomas E. Toale officiating.  Burial will be in Holy Family Cemetery in New Melleray.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Paul’s family.

Paul was born on May 22, 1934, in Peosta, Iowa, son of Glen and Helen (Broderick) McAndrews.

Paul graduated from St. Columbkilles High School.  After graduation he was employed by Mt. Carmel as manager of the dairy.  He was drafted into the Army in 1957, and served until 1959.  Paul was stationed in Germany where he was a member of the Military Baseball Team.  He traveled to various bases entertaining the troops and the people living in the area.  Paul was united in marriage to Madonna Merfeld on September 16, 1960, at St. Patrick’s Garryowen.  He was a hard worker, and was employed by USDA Meat Inspection until his retirement in 1994.  Paul will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Paul’s memory include

his wife,
Madonna McAndrews, Dubuque, IA;

a son,
Daniel McAndrews;

a grandson,
Shawn McAndrews;

2 brothers,
David (Mary) McAndrews, Greely, CO
and John McAndrews, Dubuque, IA;

and his sisters-in-law,
Gerry Skahill,
Eileen Merfeld
and Mary Ann Merfeld.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his infant children, Diane, Janet, Patricia, Glen and Angie; a sister, Maureen McAndrews; his parents-in-law, Leo and Letitia (Rogers) Merfeld; and in-laws, Mary and Al Tigges, Leonard Merfeld, Margaret and Tom Buchanan, LaVerne Merfeld, Robert Skahill, Eileen and Allan Redmond, Orlie and Mavis Merfeld, Carl Merfeld, Wilfred Merfeld and Grace and Paul Kane.

The family requests no flowers.  Memorials may be given to the BVM Sisters and the Veterans Freedom Center.  Cards may be mailed to the family c/o Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, IA 52001, attn. Paul McAndrews family.

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

Elizabeth C. Christ

Elizabeth C. “Betty” Christ, 92, of Asbury, died Monday, April 1, 2024, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 6:30 pm, when a Prayer Service will be held, on Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Betty will be 10:30 am Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Elizabeth was born July 15, 1931, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Wilfred J. and Marie C. Palm Noel. On September 11, 1954, she married Thomas E. Christ in Dubuque, Iowa. He passed away January 18, 2011.

Betty attended St. Columbkille School from kindergarten through high school.

She worked for Northwestern Bell and Brown Publishing Company, yet her most important and cherished role was that of a homemaker.

Betty was a member of Church of the Resurrection, the Koffee Kup Bowling League, and the Tri-State Twirlers Square & Round Dance Clubs. She enjoyed camping and visiting with neighbors, but above all, she loved spending time with her family, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As a devoted wife and mother, she showed love and care in all aspects of her life. She was known for her exceptional pie baking skills and had a weakness for ice cream. Additionally, Betty’s affection for animals, especially dogs, was evident in her compassionate nature.

Survivors include her four children, Steven T. (Martha) Christ, Sandy (John) Davis, and Diane (Chris) Sloman, all of Dubuque, and Mike (Tina) Christ of Dixon, IL; nine grandchildren, Jamie (Pat) Clancy, Jill (Corey) Leach,  Amy (Jason) Kempen, Catie (Craig Christofferson) Davis, T.J. (Molly) Davis, Kimmy (Jared) Irish, Bobby (Jenna Kruser) Sloman, Jennifer Burghardt, and Andrew (Julia) Christ; 11 great-grandchildren; one brother, Richard (Char) Noel of Dubuque; and one sister, Carolyn Hewitt of Dubuque.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by one sister, Mary Spielman, and one sister-in-law, Mary Ann Noel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established for Dubuque County Humane Society and University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Her family expresses their gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and to Drs. Whalen and Hermann for their attentive care of Betty.

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

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