Obituaries Archive

Harlow L. Meyer

Harlow L. Meyer, age 93, Dubuque IA, completed his earthly journey on November 21, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center.   To honor Harlow’s life, a private family graveside service will be held at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Harlow’s family.

Harlow was born on December 6, 1931, in Dubuque, IA,  son to Leonard and Verda (Miehe) Meyer.   Harlow met the love of his life, Pauline Bechen and were united in marriage on February 18, 1952, at Sacred Heart Church.  They were able to celebrate their 70^th Anniversary before Paulines death on May 28, 2022.    Harlow served in the U.S. Army  as a cook at Fort Leonard Wood Missouri from November 1952 to November 1954. When returning to Dubuque Harlow returned to working at the Dubuque Packing company and later FDL.

Harlow loved being out in the woods hunting or fishing.

Those left to cherish the memory of Harlow include,
his two daughters,
Victoria (James) Oldham, Peosta, IA,
and Rhonda (Steve) Curler, Walford, IA;

his  grandchildren,
Heather Oldham, Greenville, WI,
Chad (Amy) Oldham, Peosta, IA,
Matthew (Courtney) Curler, Cedar Rapids, IA,
and Abby (Brett) Foreman, Lawrence, KS;

his great-grandchildren,
Camber (Jon) Kastantin, Leo  Lefevre, Olive Lefevre, Crew Curler and Baby Girl Foreman (due In December);

his great-great-grandchild,
Baby boy Kastantin (due in April 2026);

his siblings,
Darlene (Loras) Flynn, Davenport, IA,
David Meyer, Asbury, IA,
and Gerry (Walt) Hutchinson, Davenport, IA;

his sister-in-law,
Zita Elgin, Dubuque, IA;

Harlow was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Pauline Meyer; his grandson, Nicholas Curler; parents; his siblings, Janann(Joe) McPoland, Donna (Wayne)Moore, Merlin Meyer and Shirley(Bob) Kennedy; and his brothers and sisters-in-law, Richard Bechen, Bob Bechen, Olin Bechen, Frannie Bechen and Ruth Becker.

Harlow’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Hawkeye Care Center, Hospice of Dubuque and Eagle Pointe Place for all of their compassionate care.

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

Sharon Bakewell

Sharon “Sue” Bakewell, 75, of Dubuque, Iowa, entered into eternal rest peacefully on November 23, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center, surrounded by her family after a long and courageous battle with angiosarcoma and dementia.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory .

The Mass of Christian Burial for Sharon will be 10:30 am Monday, December 1, 2025, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery in Dubuque. 

Sharon was born July 18th, 1950, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of John and Elvera (Pickle) Merritt. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1968. She met the love of her life Norbert Bakewell, and they were married on April 29th, 1972, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Dubuque.  Together they were blessed with three children: Kevan (Kelly) Bakewell, Keith Bakewell, and Amy (Grant) Henn.

After high school, Sharon worked at Medical Associates in OG/BYN and Dermatology for five years. After a year of schooling, she became a medical transcriptionist at Dubuque Pediatrics, where she joyfully worked for 20 years before retiring in 2015. She and her husband were very active at Resurrection parish, where Sharon enjoyed serving in various ministries, including leading the Country Store during the festival.  Sharon especially loved camping, shopping, reading, and dancing with Norb whenever music filled the room. She also took her last name to heart by excelling at baking and especially enjoyed hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings.  She had a generous heart, a strong Christian faith, and cherished her family and friends deeply.

Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, godmother, sister and aunt.  She loved visiting family and giving hugs. Her smile and laugh could light up a room.  Sharon was a very faithful and loving wife whose relationship with her husband over their fifty-three-year marriage was a joy to all who knew them. She had lifelong friendships that she treasured, especially her dearest friends Mary Jo and Sherrie, who were like sisters to her. Her greatest joy was being with her grandchildren and watching them grow into wonderful people. Although she will be deeply missed by all who knew her, we find comfort knowing that her struggles are over and that she is finally at peace.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Elvera Merritt; her son, Keith Bakewell; Fr. Don Bakewell; Sr. Genette Bakewell; Jerry Pins; and Al Loewen.

Left to cherish her memory are her husband, Norbert Bakewell; her children, Kevan (Kelly) Bakewell and Amy (Grant) Henn; and her ten grandchildren: Shelby Sweeney, Jaden (David) Cullen, Leah and Megan Bakewell, and Garrett, Colin, Austin, Lila, Ivy and Violet Henn. She is also survived by her siblings: Robert (Rory) Merritt, Steve Merritt, and Bill (Laura) Merritt.

The family would like to thank the staff of Resurrection Catholic Church, Fr. Gibbs and Deacon Mike Ellis, Marilyn Loewen, Eileen Pins, Cozy Corner Adult Day Services, Hospice of Dubuque, and the Hawkeye Care Center staff for the compassionate care and support they provided to Sharon and Norb throughout this journey.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family.

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 Sharon’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Irvin H. Borderding

Irvin Henry Borgerding, 87, of Dyersville, passed away on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at his home.

Born in a farmhouse one quarter mile east of Bankston, he was the son of Ben and Mary (Klas) Borgerding, on the 23rd of October 1938. He attended St. Clement’s school in Bankston for eight grades and, after Ben bought a farm in Holy Cross, he attended and graduated from Holy Cross High School in 1956. He worked on the farm and helped the neighbors when they needed help. He was a hired man for Louis Recker, Vincent Maiers and John Klostermann until drafted into the Army in October of 1961. He had Basic and Second training at Fort Carson, Colorado.  He was then sent to 5142 Missile Battalion in Aschaffenburg Germany.  He was discharged in August 1963 from the Army.

On November 20, 1965, he was united in marriage to Joyce Krapfl in St. Boniface church in New Vienna. They were blessed with five children. They farmed in Balltown, Worthington and New Vienna until 1992 when they sold the farm and retired to Dyersville. He then worked at Lumber Specialties LTD for 16.5 years, before retiring in 2008. He volunteered to cut lawns around church, school and convent. He opened school doors on Wednesday nights for the Faith Formation children. Also served food for Xavier elementary school kids until Covid 19 shut that down.

He enjoyed playing cards (Euchre, Solo and 500) among friends and relatives. With kids and grandchildren, he played Canasta, Garbage, Back up 3, Village Idiot, Phase 10, UNO, Wizard, and Dominoes. He was a member of the Dyersville American Legion Post 137, Dubuque County Farm Bureau for over 60 years, and St. Francis Xavier Parish.

He is survived by his five children: Susan (Gary) Bries Jackson, WI, Rose (Todd) Shafer of Ankeny IA, Robert Borgerding of Havelock NC, Ann Orrison of Dyersville IA, and Paul (Laura) Borgerding of Dubuque IA; eight grandchildren: Brian Bries, Jennifer (Luc) Bries, Julie Bries, Sarah (fiancé, Riley Martin) Shafer, Ben Shafer, Heather (Josh) LaBarbera, Randal Orrison and Cordel (Ciera) Orrison; great-grandchild, Oliver Irvin Orrison; siblings: Helen Cigrand of Dubuque IA, Richard (Marilyn) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA, Mary Jane Johnson of Harrisburg PA, Carol (Tom) Beringer of Farley IA, Wilma Jesenovec of Hopkinton IA, and Loras (Jean) Borgerding of Holy Cross IA; in-laws: Alice Langel of Dyersville IA, Doris Langel of Dyersville IA, Donna (James) Kluesner of Luxemburg IA, Inez (Bernie) Kluesner of New Vienna IA, and David (LuAnn) Krapfl of New Vienna, IA.

He was preceded in death by his wife Joyce; parents, Ben and Mary Borgerding; sister, Donna (Richard) Smith; in-laws: Lawrence and Laurine Krapfl, David Johnson, Ernest Jesenovec, Gene (Betty) Krapfl, Francis Langel, Melvin Langel, and Marian (Ed) Hermsen; nephews: Mark Langel and Gene Kluesner; nieces: Gail Dietrick and Rebecca Krapfl.

Visitation will be held from 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home where a military service will be held at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to funeral services.

Funeral service will be held at 10: 30 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, at St. Francis Xavier Basilica with the interment in the church cemetery where military honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #137. Rev. David Schatz will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made out to Hospice of Dubuque.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Lois C. Trausch-Wolfe

Lois C. Trausch-Wolfe, 85 of Dubuque, IA, went home to the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit on November 23, 2025.

As per Lois’s wishes, a private memorial service will be held at a later date. As a final act of generosity Lois has donated her body to science through the University of Iowa Deeded Body program. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Lois was born in Dubuque on November 7, 1940, the daughter of Fay R. and Dorothy F. (Pape) Orcutt. As a child she loved staying with her Aunt Mazie and Uncle Walt Taylor in Potosi, WI, helping on their farm. Lois graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1959. Lois worked for many years as a nurse’s aide. She worked as a housekeeper at Loras College for 24 years until she retired. She married Joseph Wolfe on November 3, 1992. Lois loved gardening, canning, and crocheting. Lois was a great cook and enjoyed preparing holiday meals for her family, and hosting picnics at her home for the Celotex Maintenance Dept., and Loras College Bens Hall Housekeepers for many years. She enjoyed giving gifts to others and seeing the joy it brought to them rather than receiving gifts herself. She donated annually to the Potosi-Tennyson Lions Club. She spent her free time reading the bible and praying for everyone.

Lois is survived by her children Forrest Trausch of Dubuque, Claudette (Bob) Betts of Farley, IA, Paul Trausch of Oceanside, CA; her “Potosi kids” Tim and Cory Leibfried Family; sister Shelby (Ron) Olsen of Mt. Pleasant, IA; brother Loren (Callie) of Salt Lake City, UT; sister-in-law Margret Tracy of Puhrump, NV; grandchildren Eric (Lynn) Trausch and Austin Trausch; great-grandchildren Owen, Elliot, Quinn and Piper Trausch; niece Shannon (Brian) Brunscheen and son Chase; nephews John and Fay (Nadia) Olsen family; cousins Linda Kirkel and Cary (Paulette) Kress; and her Grace Point Family whom she loved dearly.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband Joe, her parents, brothers Brian (Karen) Orcutt and Bruce (Patti) Orcutt.

Special thanks to her “Hospice of Dubuque girls” Jamie, Stephanie, Hayle, and Molly, and the staff at Stonehill 3N for their care and compassion.

John A. Sincox

John A. Sincox, age 79, of Scales Mound, IL, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center in Dubuque, IA.

Family and friends may call from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 28, 2025 at the Miller & Steinke Funeral Home in Scales Mound and from 9:15 – 9:45 a.m. on Saturday at the Scales Mound United Methodist Church, where services will be at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, with Rev. Libby Rutherford officiating. Burial will follow in the Scales Mound Twp. Cemetery.

John was born on February 22, 1946 at Freeport, IL, the son of Norman and B’Ella (Rowe) Sincox.  He was a 1964 graduate of Warren High School. On February 17, 1968 he was united in marriage to Karen K. Hendrickson at the Apple River Methodist Church in Apple River, IL.

John grew up on his family farm outside of Apple River. During high school John was in a band and enjoyed singing. He sang in the church choir. John formerly worked for Honeywell in Freeport and various other locations. John‘s hobby after retirement was gardening and canning. He also enjoyed playing solitaire on the computer and playing cribbage. John loved watching his granddaughters play their sports and attending their music activities.

Surviving is his wife Karen; two daughters, Heidi Sincox of Scales Mound, IL and Summer (Ryan) Feldmann of Platteville, WI; four grandchildren, Sierra Hooper, Jazmyn Feldmann, Lynette Feldmann, and Jade Feldmann; one brother, Howard (Debbie) Sincox of Apple River, IL, and one sister, Marlene Burge of Bradenton, FL, and brother-in-law, David (Joann) Hendrickson of Dubuque, IA and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and B’Ella, son, Cory J. Sincox, siblings, Keith (Shirley) Sincox and Elaine Crom, and his in-laws, Ron Hendrickson and Vicki Stilson.

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

Jeanette Brimeyer

Jeanette Brimeyer, 97, of Sherrill, died Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, November 28, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Jeanette will be at 10:00 am Saturday, November 29, 2025, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church – Balltown with Father Tyler Raymond as the Celebrant. Burial will be at SS Peter and Paul Cemetery – Sherrill.

Jeanette was born February 7, 1928 in Bankston, IA, daughter of George & Mary (Winter) Wolf. She received her education at the former St. Clements School in Bankston. On June 7th, 1950 she married Merlin Brimeyer of Sherrill, IA at St. Clements Catholic Church in Bankston, together they farmed in Sherrill until 1984.

She was a member of SS Peter & Paul Church, the Rosary Society, and Catholic Order of Foresters.

Jeanette was a devoted homemaker who found joy in cooking, baking, crocheting, playing cards, and dominos with the grandkids, trying her luck at the slot machines, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs. She especially loved to crochet. If someone in the family needed a blanket or baby afghan, she could create one in just a few days. She made it a point to ensure every child and grandchild had an afghan stitched with her love. Above all, Jeanette cherished time spent visiting with her family and friends. Her warmth, creativity, and gentle presence will remain forever in our hearts.

She is survived by six children, Steve (Judy) Brimeyer of Sherrill, Debbie (Wayne) Steffen of Rickardsville, Rick Brimeyer of Sherrill, Judy (Milo) Hefel of Dubuque, Connie (Dana) Henkes of Dubuque, and Tom Brimeyer of Sherrill; 16 grandchildren, Jenny (Lance) Kruger, Julie Mueller, Peggy (Marc) Hanson, Jason (Kelli) Steffen, Crystal (Jesse) Smith, Rachel (Adam) Schilling, Michelle (Rob) Klaren, Matthew (Jenni Scott) Brimeyer, Sarah (Ted) Smith, Kayla (Tony) Nadermann, Rebecca (Tyler) Barton, Brittni (Charles) Benda, Brandon (Holly) Hefel, Brock (M.J. Whitaker-Long) Hefel, Stephanie (Nick) Farber, and Jeremy Henkes; 31 great-grandchildren, with four more on the way, including a set of twins; three step great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Marlene Brimeyer; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Merlin on February 2, 2021, her parents, her father and mother in-law Felix and Anna (Wagner) Brimeyer, one daughter-in-law Judy Brimeyer; her sisters, Ardella Connolly, Marlene Dupont, and a brother Nicholas Wolf.  In-laws Ray Ernzen, Frank Connolly, Richard Dupont, Doris Wolf, Reynold Brimeyer, Gilbert & Norma Brimeyer, LaVerne Brimeyer, John & Delores Hannan, and Annette Brimeyer-Ament.

The family would like to thank the staff at Stonehill Health Care Center, Hospice, and her in home caretaker, Sandy Koltes, for the care and love they gave to their mother.

In lieu of flowers, a Jeanette L. Brimeyer Memorial Fund has been established.

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

Dorothy M. Brimeyer

Dorothy Mae Brimeyer—known to many as “Dottie” or “Doe,” and lovingly called “Dot” by her husband, Kenny—passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2025. At the center of her life and spirit was her devotion to her family; she was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and neighbor.

Born on November 6, 1946, to Louis (Bud) and Miriam (Em) Juergens, Mom was the fourth of their six children. She grew up surrounded by the love of her siblings—Gerene, Richard, Mary Kay, Clara, and Patricia—each of whom shaped her early life in Dubuque, Iowa.

Mom spent most of her life in Dubuque. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and went on to complete her training at Capri Cosmetology College. Becoming a cosmetologist allowed her to express her creativity, confidence, and natural ability to make others feel seen and beautiful. After twenty years in the beauty profession, Mom began a new chapter in 1987 at Flexsteel Industries, working as an in-back seamstress. Though it was a change of pace, she embraced her role wholeheartedly and developed many treasured friendships during her years there.

On November 4, 1967, with a light dusting of snow on the ground, Mom married Kenneth (Kenny) Brimeyer in a beautiful ceremony at St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, hard work, and deep love, and were blessed with three daughters: Lori, Lynn, and Tricia.

Mom’s greatest passion was her children and their families. She loved being a grandma and spending time with her grandchildren. Mom enjoyed playing games, singing and dancing, watching movies, and she especially loved snuggling with each of her 6 grandchildren: Hannah, Gabrielle, Samuel, Will, Luke and Paige. Her legacy will always be the love she instilled in them. Mom left a permanent imprint on her grandchildren’s lives, and her memory will live on in their memories and hearts forever.

Mom was preceded in death by her parents, Bud and Em; her siblings Gerene, Dick and Mary Kay; her parent-in-laws, Ray and Alvina Brimeyer; in-laws Tom Oberbroeckling, Jerome Errthum, Tommie Turner, Charlie Evanoff, Roger Meyer, Pat & Clark Lange, Louie Hoeger, and Kathleen Brimeyer. She was also preceded in death by nieces, nephews and grandpuppies that were dear to her heart.

Mom is survived by her husband, Kenny; her three daughters, Lori (Bill), Lynn, and Tricia (Travis); Lori and Bill’s children, Hannah, Gabrielle (fiancé Cannon), and Samuel; Tricia and Travis’s children, Will, Luke, and Paige; two sisters, Clara and Patricia (Mark); and several in-laws, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews that she loved as her own.

Honoring her wishes, there will be no public services. The family extends their profound appreciation for the love and support they’ve received and will hold a celebration of life at a later date for all who knew and loved Mom. They wish to express their sincere gratitude to nurse Dawn in the ER, all the nurses and doctors that cared for mom in the ICU and especially Dr. Eltibi for his knowledge, compassion and guidance in caring for Mom’s precious heart over the past seven years. They are also grateful to the many other doctors, nurses and staff who cared for mom over the years.

Those that knew Mom would describe her as a fierce and gentle force. She stood up for what she believed in and met challenges with strength, determination and tenacity. She also loved deeply and without reservation – welcoming all as they were in every aspect of her life. A friend of her children, a neighbor, a smiling server at Sunshine Restaurant, every engagement Mom had was a chance to connect. Many have commented that she made them feel like family. Know that you held a special place in her heart.

Deborah A. O’Leary

Debbie A. O’Leary, 65, of DeWitt, IA, passed peacefully on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at Allure of the Quad Cities, Moline, IL, with her daughter and son-in-law at her side. A funeral service will be held at 1 PM on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena, IL. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Galena.

Deborah Ann Johnson was born on November 4, 1960, in Cuba City, WI, the daughter of Thomas and Darlene (Berlage) Johnson. Debbie grew up in Galena, spending most of her years there before moving to Iowa. Debbie worked for many years at the printing company in Eldridge before moving into customer service at Walmart, where her kindness, sass, and humor made an impression on countless people. She grew up a member of St. Mary’s Church in Galena and later attended St. Joseph Catholic Church in DeWitt.

Debbie enjoyed being active in her community, joining the DeWitt Garden club, participating in a bowling league, and proudly advocating for Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness. She found joy in DeWitt’s Tunes in Town, the farmers’ market, and exploring antique stores wherever she could see them. Creativity was at the heart of Debbie’s life. She loved arts and crafts of every kind; diamond art, Christmas lanterns, handmade jewelry, and so much more, and she always had a thoughtful, handmade gift ready for someone she cared about. Puzzles kept her busy, and decorating for every holiday brought joy to anyone who walked through her door. She treasured feeding and watching the hummingbirds and cardinals outside her home and took great pride in her garden, gladly teaching anyone who wanted to learn. She loved to capture life’s moments, never hesitating to snap a photo to remember a feeling, a place, and a smile. Debbie lived and breathed the color purple.

She was bold, brave, tough, and an extraordinary woman. As she once shared in an article about her cancer journey: “My purpose in life since 2019 is to be thankful for every day God allows me to open my eyes and put a smile on people’s faces when I see them, whether I know them or not. Most of all, I like to make people laugh. We need laughter every day in our lives … to act like a kid no matter your age.”

Debbie is survived by her beloved daughter, Kaitlyn (Justin) Furlough; mother, Darlene Greibe; sister, Diana Silvera; uncle, John (Marilyn) Berlage; family, Gaylon Folks and Bill & Jeanie Bussan; great friends, Tina Connor, Virg Connor, Arlene & Brian Barclay, Brianna & Emily DeGraff, Joan & Bob Reynolds; and a host of many others who loved her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Michael O’Leary; her father, Thomas Johnson; her brothers, Daniel and David Johnson; her grandmother, Stella Berlage; and her uncles, Dennis and Ronald Berlage.

The family would like to send a thank-you to anyone who helped Debbie throughout her journey, whether it was for a ride to the doctor, taking her grocery shopping, or simply being a friend.

Above all, Debbie hoped people would remember her favorite reminder to take one day at a time and never forget to smile.

Memorials can be made to the family or the DeWitt Referral Center. Online condolences may be left for the family at  www.furlongfuneralchapel.com

Gayle M. Reiter

Gayle M. Reiter, 87, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Friday, November 21, 2025, at Stonehill Heath Center in Dubuque.

Private family services will be held. Burial will take place in Mount Calvary Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Gayle was born March 3, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Leo and Luella (Weber) Seitz. She married the love of her life LaVern Reiter on Thanksgiving Day November 26, 1959, at Church of the Nativity. Together they celebrated 64 beautiful years until his passing January 21, 2024. Gayle worked in housekeeping for many places in the area, lastly working at the Days Inn until her retirement at the age of 80 years old.

She enjoyed spending her days in her flower garden, being outdoors enjoying walks along the river, and evening rides with a hot fudge sundae. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Throughout life, family was her prize possession, instilling love and kindness into every generation.

Gayle is survived by her children: Kathy (Kevin) Weber, Connie (Jim) Benn, Jeff (Trudy) Reiter, and Kelly (Chris) Smith; grandchildren: Lindsey, Kris, Jacob, Ashley, Kara, Gabbi, Andy, Alex, Chloe, and Olivia; great grandchildren: Estella, Jack, Viviann, Aurora, Emmeline, Scarlett, and Arlo; sisters-in-law, Bonnie Seitz, Virginia Lyons, and Carol Ann Godwin; along with many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband, LaVern, her parents, siblings Virginia (Dick) Dunwoody, Mary Lou (Elno) Coulson, and Frank Seitz, many nieces and nephews with a special mention of Jack Dunwoody.

A memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the Stonehill Memory Unit and Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion shown to Gayle and her family.

Donald R. Schmitt

Donald R. Schmitt, 88, of Holy Cross, Iowa passed away November 21, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center, Dubuque, Iowa.

Visitation will be held from 3 – 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross.  Visitation will continue at the funeral home from 9 – 10 a.m. prior to the funeral mass.

Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Tyler Raymond will officiate.

Don was born April 22, 1937, in Holy Cross, Iowa, the son of Charles “Chas” and Bertha (Meyer) Schmitt.  He graduated from Holy Cross Catholic High School and Loras College in Dubuque.  On November 26, 1960, he married Janet Decker from Balltown, and together they operated the “Schmitt Century Farm” near Holy Cross for 34 years.  During this time Don also taught German and Language Arts at Leo High School in Holy Cross, and for the Western Dubuque School District in Farley and Epworth, where he developed many life-long friends.

They raised their three children on the farm, and together as a family restored a former stagecoach stop built in 1849 as their home.  Known as “Pin Oak”, it was settled in 1836, ten years before the State of Iowa was founded.  It was on the Dubuque-St. Paul Stage Trail, and it served as a hotel and a post office.  It is on the National Register of Historic Places.  The preservation of history was very important to Don and Janet, and they placed a picture of Pin Oak on their cemetery headstone.

Don served six years in the Army’s 389th engineer battalion, and he was a member of the Farley American Legion Post 656.  He was a Commissioner for the Dubuque County Soil and Water Conservation District for 12 years, and also served as its Chairman.  In 1972, he received the Outstanding Young Farmer award.  He was a member of the Heritage Foundation, the Reagan Ranch Foundation, National Rifle Association, Dubuque County Right to Life, the Clarity Clinic, and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

Don served the Holy Cross Catholic Church as an altar boy, lector, and choir member where he would sing in German the song Stille Nacht at Christmas.  He was active on the church and school boards.  Many years ago, it was tradition for the priest to be the only lector at Mass.  When this custom was changed, Father Hemesath asked Don to become the first lay reader at Holy Cross Church.  Don lectored from that day until 3 weeks ago.

His interests included traveling, especially to German-speaking countries, and writing letters to the editors of various newspapers on political issues.  Don enjoyed firearms, antique tractors, and attending events with the Guttenberg River Park Cruisers, where he and Janet drove their 1956 T-Bird and 1958 Oldsmobile.

Don was known for his great sense of humor.  He always had a joke or funny story that he delivered with perfect comedic timing.  And who can forget when Don stood on stage in the Holy Cross gym as Rodney Dangerfield, performing a lengthy stand up while adjusting his uncomfortable red tie and declaring, “I don’t get any respect!”  He also enjoyed impersonating Willie Nelson, singing various songs.

Survivors include his children Jeff (Linda) Schmitt of Holy Cross, Dave (Wendy) Schmitt of Omaha, NE, and Lisa (Dan) Bowen of Kansas City, KS; grandchildren Michael (Hali) Schmitt, Katelyn Schmitt, John Schmitt, Matt (Libby) Schmitt, Danny Bowen, Nicole Schmitt, Nicholas Bowen, and Adam Schmitt; great-grandchildren Harrison Schmitt and Wyatt Schmitt; in-laws John Decker, Larry (Trudy) Decker, Kathy Koch, and Ann (Andy) Baumann; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife Janet; parents; parents-in-law Lawrence and Loretta (Hefel) Decker; sister LaVonne; and in-laws Joan and Les Feldmann, and Steve Koch.

Don is an example of a life well lived.  By his death he answered the call, etched in German on his tombstone, “Kommet mit Mir und ruhuet in Frieden” (Come with Me and rest in Peace).

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff at Assisi Village and Stonehill Care Center, Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque for their kind, compassionate care.

Memorials may be given to LaSalle School or Holy Cross Parish in Holy Cross, Iowa.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Holy Cross is assisting the family and online condolences may be left for the family at www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

John A. Liphardt Jr.

John A. Liphardt Jr, 64, of Dubuque died peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on Thursday, November 20, 2025. To celebrate John’s life, there will be a farewell toast visitation from 3 to 7 pm Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home, 2659 Kennedy Road.

John was born August 18, 1961 in Clinton, Iowa, son of John and Katherine (Sharer) Liphardt Sr.

He graduated from Dubuque Hempstead High School in 1979. On June 19, 1982, he married Barbara Bahl on her family farm.

He was working in the maintenance department at the City of Dubuque Since 2006 where he met many great coworkers and friends.

He enjoyed tinkering in his garage taking things apart to see how they worked.

John had a personality you couldn’t help but love. He always had a smart alec remark that made everyone laugh. “Look, a monkey.”

John is survived by his wife Barbara; three children, Robert Atkinson and his daughter Kayla; John (Kira Kieffer) Liphardt III and their children, Gage and Evangaline; and Jenny Liphardt and her children, Caleb, Cooper, and Harper; and two great grandchildren, Jayce and Jaxtyn.

He is also survived by five siblings, Sheila Beaver, Kathy (Rick) Rennison, Verna (Harry) Rennison, Mike (Janet) Liphardt and Chris (Brenda) Williams, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Tim Williams.

A John Liphardt memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cheryl Morgan-Ihrig and her staff and well as the nurses and staff at Above and Beyond Hospice for their wonderful care and neighbor Nate and Lisa for all the support over the years.

Richard P. Deininger

Richard P. “Dick” Deininger, age 84, of Galena, Illinois passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025 at Mercy One Dubuque Medical Center.

A memorial visitation will be held from 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at the Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque, IL, where funeral services will follow at 3:00 p.m., with Pastor Crystal Weber officiating. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

Dick was born on September 2, 1941 in Galena, the son of Willis J. and Alma E. (Bardell) Deininger. He was a graduate of Galena High School. On October 26, 1963, he was united in marriage to Alys M. Hampton at Wesley Methodist Church in East Dubuque.

Dick’s passion in life was farming and real estate. Family came first, then hunting, a good card game, bowling and playing volleyball.

Surviving is his wife, Alys; four children, Susan Deininger, Sandy Deininger, Jim (Lisa) Deininger and Michelle Deininger; 11-grandchildren and 12-great-grandchildren; his siblings, Rose Harkness, Marilyn Flack, and Chuck (Nancy) Deininger; sisters-in-law, Faud Deininger, Lola Deininger, and Marian Binns.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willis and Alma, a son Paul, a grandson, Stuart, father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ed and Anna Hampton, and siblings, Lester, William, and Carolyn.

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

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

David J. McDonough

David J. “Dave” McDonough, age 68, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey on November 18, 2025, at Harmony Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.  To honor Dave’s life, a memorial mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 1, 2025, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1701 Rhomberg Avenue in Dubuque, with Rev. Raymond Burkle officiating.  Family and friends are invited to join in fellowship from 9:00-11:00 a.m. prior to the service at the church.  Burial will be in the Mount Calvary Mausoleum.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Dave’s family.

Dave was born on November 28, 1956, in Dubuque, IA, a son to John and Frances (Meyer) McDonough.  He was a proud graduate of Hempstead High School and went on to be a personal trainer and bouncer for many years in the Dubuque area.  We are going to miss Dave more than he could know and are forever grateful for the wonderful memories he leaves behind.  May the Lord bless and keep you safe in his loving arms until we see you again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Dave include,

his four siblings,
Linda (Bob) Becker, Dubuque, IA,
Gary (Missy) McDonough, East Dubuque, IA,
John (Mary) McDonough, Dubuque, IA,
and Dennis (Olivia) McDonough, Warrenton, VA;

his sister-in-law,
Theresa McDonough, Dubuque, IA;

his aunts and uncles,
Jan McDonough, Key West, IA,
Connie McDonough, Dubuque, IA,
and Bill McDonough, Asbury, IA;

his fourteen nieces and nephews;

his Godfather,
Lou McDonough, Dubuque, IA;

along with numerous cousins, extended family and friends.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents; his grandparents, Charles (Anna) McDonough and Nick (Theresa) Meyer; his aunts and uncles, Tom McDonough, Fran McDonough, Rita McDonough, Virginia (Dick) Johnson and Mary (Loras) Grant;  Lou’s wife, Gerry McDonough; and his cousins, Kevin McDonough and David Grant.

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

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

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

Bonita M. Staas

Bonita M. “Bonnie Staas, age 85, of Orangeville, IL, completed her earthly journey on November 20, 2025.

Bonnie was born on May 20, 1940, in Massbach, IL, one of 8 children, to Arthur and Bessie (Belk) Beyer. She began her formative years in a one-room schoolhouse in Massbach and graduated from Stockton High School. She worked many different jobs, Micro Switch, Germania, Turner Hall, and retired from being a realtor with Chilton Realty in Durand. She enjoyed meeting new people and making them laugh.

In her free time, she loved to bake breads, pies, and cookies and share them with friends and neighbors. She loved gardening and canning, camping, and was a beekeeper until she was 78. Bonnie loved creating family memories with her children and grandchildren. Her cats gave her much comfort in the later years.

Bonnie is survived by her son, Raymond (Laurie) Staas, Pearl City, IL; daughter, Sandra (Kimball Willis) Staas, Elizabeth, IL; daughter in law, Toni Staas, Cedarville, IL. Three grandchildren, Jeremy (Angela) Staas, Oregon, WI, Jenelle Staas, Freeport, IL, and Caitlin (Michaela Greenwalt) Staas, Moline IL. Four great-grandchildren, Trey Staas, Bryce Monigold, Carter Staas, and Lauren Staas. Siblings, Arlene Allen, Kankakee, IL, and Gale Beyer, Dekalb, IL.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her two sons, Kelly Staas and Wayne (Janie) Staas; her siblings, Delbert (Doris) Beyer, Kelly (Joni) Beyer, Allen (Doris) Beyer, Jan (Charles) Symens, and Bette Beyer.

The family would like to thank the nurses and staff at FHN Hospice in Freeport for all of their professional and compassionate care. We would also like to thank Help at Home for their wonderful caregivers, and Kathleen Williams, Maureen Marsh, and Dana Pettinger.

Per her request there will be no service.

Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Bonnie’s family.

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

Audrey K. Cunningham

Audrey K. Cunningham, age 77, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on November 8, 2025, at home while surrounded by her loving family.  To honor Audrey’s life, a private family service will be held at a later date.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Audrey’s family.

Audrey was born on July 25, 1948, in Monroe, MI, a daughter to Alvin and Edna May (Nitz) Ault.  She was gifted with a fun-loving spirit and a love for family which never quit.  She did spend a few years of her working career on a few different ventures, but undoubtedly her favorite was delivering recreational vehicles from the manufacturer to the sales lots.  A little cruising around the countryside in a brand-new RV was the perfect way to pass the time and miles in Audrey’s mind.

In her free time, Audrey never met a jigsaw puzzle she was afraid to be challenged with and if some time to sit in her comfy chair with her crochet needles in hand happened to occur, this was always a welcomed diversion.  Let it know that her homemade bread was second to none out there as well and if her favorite show, “When Calls the Heart” was on the tv, you could be sure that Audrey was going to make the effort to catch what she could.  All of these moments were only made even better if she happened to have her family close by.  Her love and adoration were continually on display, and there was no doubt in anyone’s mind that her devotion was both unconditional and immeasurable.  We are going to miss our dearly sweet Audrey moving forward and cannot imagine where such love and light in our days could be found now.  Thank you, Audrey, for being the best mom, grandma and friends any of us could ask for and may the Lord bless and keep you securely in His loving arms until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Audrey include,

her two children,
Michelle (Michael) Hamdar, Toccoa, GA,
and Karrie (Joe) Mayefski, Dubuque, IA;

her grandchildren,
Chris Hamdar, Kimberly Tores, Dante Hamdar, Saphira Mayefski, Sonja Mayefski, Kyle Mayefski, Abby Mayefski, Dylan Priest, Damian Priest, Faith Ann Priest and Angel Marrie Priest, Sheena and Dusty Priest;

her son-in-law,
Michael Priest, Oakwood, GA;

her siblings,
Alvin (Kathy) Ault, Jr., TN,
David Ault, FL,
Eillen (Donny) Kephart, Alberta, CA,
and Danny (Lynda) Ault, PA;

her ex-husband,
Allen Cunningham, Pittsburg, PA;

along with numerous extended families, friends, and neighbors.

Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Amy Priest; her son, Jimmy Cox; and her brothers, Michael Ault and Warren Ault.

Audrey’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 Audrey’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com