Obituaries Archive

Eileen M. Kluesner

Eileen M. Kluesner, 97, of Farley, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at her home in Farley, Iowa.

Visitation for Eileen will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 1:30 p.m., and a CDA Rosary will be held at 4:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian burial for Eileen will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, October 6, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding.  Burial will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Farley, Iowa.

She was born May 31, 1928, in Holy Cross, Iowa, daughter of Gilbert and Henrietta (Lake) Maiers.  She received her education in the Holy Cross School.  On December 29, 1949, she was united in marriage to Gerald A. Kluesner at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Holy Cross, Iowa.  The couple farmed in the rural Farley area until retiring in 1992 and moving to town.  He preceded her in death on January 31, 2007.

She enjoyed playing euchre, sewing, crossword puzzles, dances and spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

She is a member of St. Joseph’s Parish in Farley, Iowa, and the Altar and Rosary society. She is past member of the Farley Garden Club and a member of the Catholic Daughters of the America’s Presentation Court #1460.

Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Connie (Bill) Schueller of Farley, Joyce (Bob) Smith of Dubuque, Gail Hefel of Farley, Karen (Joe) Spoden of Robins, Rick (Amy) Kluesner, Deb (Jim) Kennedy both of Farley, Patti (Jim) Trumm of Cascade, Janet (Steve) Noonan of Robins, Cheryl (Gary) McAndrew of Peosta, Kim (Craig) McDermott of Cedar Rapids, Bill (Heidi) Kluesner of Farley, Mary (Dave) Hosch of Epworth, Tim (Shawn) Kluesner of Peosta,  Terry (Becky) Kluesner of Hiawatha, Dr. Todd (Janel) Kluesner of Farley; 49 grandchildren; 58 great grandchildren; 3 step-great-grandchildren; one brother, Al “Butch” (Pat) Maiers of Dubuque, and sister-in-law, Adele Kluesner of Farley and several nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; a son-in-law, Chris Hefel; a grandson, Riley McDermott; five siblings, Leon (Harriett) Maiers, Edwin (Laura) Maiers, Wilmer(Norma) Maiers, Clete (Shirley) Maiers; her father and mother-in-law, William and Catherine (Bockenstedt) Kluesner; brothers and sisters-in-law, Elmer (Rose) Kluesner, Bede (Virgil) Freymann, Cyril Kluesner, Clarence (Stella) Kluesner, Fred (Mercedes) Kluesner, Mary (Joe) Gotto, Edmund (Virginia) Kluesner, Joe (Verena) Kluesner, Irene (Alfred) Lansing and John Kluesner.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolences left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeeinc.com

The family would like to thank Dr. Runde and Hospice of Dubuque.

Ronald L. Frandsen

Ronald (Ron) Lynn Frandsen, 67 of Olathe, KS, formerly of Maquoketa IA, passed away on September 30, 2025.

Ron was born on July 7, 1958 in Dubuque, IA to Art and Karen (Andersen) Frandsen. He grew up in the Nashville and Maquoketa areas, attending school first in Baldwin, IA then moving to the Maquoketa Schools and graduating with the class of 1976.  During his senior year of high school Ron worked at Stickley Electric learning the ropes of what would become his lifelong career.  He later worked for DeWitt Electric before joining IBEW Local 145 where he continued his career as a Journeyman Electrician.

Ron met Diane (Hinz) Frandsen in January 1976, and they later married on June 2, 1979 at Sacred Heart Church in Maquoketa.  To this union one child, Joshua, was born.

Ron was a Maquoketa resident until December 2021 when he moved to Olathe to be nearer his son, Joshua, and his family.  During his time in Olathe, he was able to watch his granddaughters participate in a variety of activities.  He was so very proud of them and enjoyed cheering them on from the stands.

Ron is survived by his wife, Diane, son Joshua (Jenny) Frandsen, granddaughters Everly and Coralie; his parents Art and Karen Frandsen, sisters Carol (Rich) Duhme, Connie (Kent) Simmons and his brother Mike Frandsen; in-laws John (Twyla) Hinz, Gil Hinz, Tom (Karen) Hinz and Steve (Alesha) Hinz and his loving companion, Boo.  Ron was predeceased by his in-laws John (Jack) and Agnes Hinz and Sherry Hinz.

A graveside service for Ron will be held at 10:30 A.M., on Saturday, October 11 at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa. Friends may call from 5 to 7 P.M., on Friday, October 10, at Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa.

The family requests no flowers and suggests memorial contributions be made to a hospice of your choice.

Arrangements by Porter Funeral Homes & Crematory, Lenexa KS and Carson Celebration of Life Center, Maquoketa IA.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.porterfuneralhome.com or www.carsonandson.com

Mary E. Puls

Douglas C. Mott

Douglas C. Mott, 85, of Dubuque, passed away September 27, 2025, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Visitation will be from 8:30-10:30a.m., Friday, October 3, 2025, at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 JFK Road, Dubuque. A Catholic Mass will be at 11:00a.m., Friday, at the Church of the Resurrection, 4300 Asbury Road, Dubuque. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery.

Douglas was born on December 15, 1939, in Mason City, Iowa to Clifford and Cecelia (Krapp) Mott. He attended Mason City Junior College, St. Ambrose College in Davenport, and Upper Iowa University where he received a B.A. in Business Administration and History.

Doug was a longtime member of Resurrection Church where he enjoyed being actively involved in the parish festival, among other activities.

He loved dancing, attending concerts, and listening to Buddy Holly. He loved football and was a devoted Iowa Hawkeye and Minnesota Vikings fan. He also enjoyed the outdoors and working in his yard.

He is survived by his children, Julie (John) Ely of Cedar Rapids, IA, Michael Mott of Cedar Rapids, IA, Randy Mott of Peosta, IA, and Kristi (Ryan) Erhart of Marion, IA. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren with 1 on the way. Doug is also survived by his brother, Roger Mott, and sister, Mercele Kaduce.

He was preceded in death by Sharon Mott, his parents, and his brothers, Ken Mott, and Bryan Mott.

Doug’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful, compassionate care.

Memorials may be given to the Church of the Resurrection.

The Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home and Crematory is entrusted with arrangements.

Marie L. Pregler

Marie L. Pregler, 97, of Dubuque, died Monday, September 29, 2025, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm Monday, October 6, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Marie will be at 10:00 am Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church with Father Brian Dellaert as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Marie was born April 25, 1928, in Specht’s Ferry, IA, the daughter of Anton and Mary (Hussli) Schneller. On April 19, 1947, she married Raymond O. Pregler at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Sherrill, IA. He passed away on January 31, 2014.

She attended Immaculate Conception Academy in Dubuque.

While raising her family, Marie dedicated herself as a homemaker before later working at Janlin Plastics and Regency Thermographers.

Marie enjoyed baking, picking berries for her homemade pies, fishing, and acting in family music videos. She was a dedicated member of St. Joseph the Worker, an active bowler with the Women’s Bowling Association 600 Club, and a proud member of her card club for over 50 years. Marie also worked alongside her husband to build three family homes.

Survivors include her six children, Patty (Ken) Schmitt of Dubuque, Ray “Butch” (Sue) Pregler of Dubuque, Dennis (Cathy) Pregler of Asbury, Nanette “Nan” (Steve) Herrig of LaMotte, Pam (Joe) Charland of Asbury, and Wendy “Suzie” (Bob) Jochum of Asbury; 13 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and one sister-in-law, Elaine Pregler.

Besides her husband, Marie was preceded in death by her parents, one great-grandson, Cohen Backhaus, her siblings, Katherine “Kay” (Edward) Maahs, Casper (Bert) Schneller, her father-and mother-in-law, Roy and Marie Pregler, and siblings-in-law, Marie (Kendall) Day, Richard (Virginia) Pregler, and Daniel Pregler.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

Marie’s family would like to thank Hannah at Hawkeye Care Center, Mallory and Sierra with Hospice of Dubuque, and Monica at Nativity for their care and support.

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

Kathryn M. Lechtenberg

Kathryn M. “Kay” Lechtenberg, 91, of Maquoketa, a cherished mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Monday morning, September 29, 2025, at Jackson Ridge Healthcare Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

Born on November 11, 1933, in Hornell, New York, Kay was the daughter of Robert Hastings and Eleanor Ann (Brohm) Bronson.  After graduating from high school and completing her education at Mount St. Francis College in Dubuque, Iowa, Kay embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying the love of her life, Dr. Joseph Anthony Lechtenberg Sr., on May 5, 1956, at St. Raphael Cathedral in Dubuque. Together, they built a life filled with joy, challenges, and the bustling activity that comes with raising a large and loving family. Kay’s husband, Joseph, passed away before her on January 31, 2010, and she continued to honor his memory through her unwavering commitment to their family.

Outside of the home, Kay worked as an office assistant at Farley and Letcher, brought warmth and care to Sunshine Daycare and Preschool, and supported her husband’s dental practice as an insurance claim submitter and assistant. Her work ethic and dedication to helping others were evident in every role she undertook.

A devout member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kay’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. She served as a past member and Regent of St. Raphael #1156 Catholic Daughters of the Americas and was a former member of the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority.

Kay found joy in watching movies, engaging in board games with her children and grandchildren, and tending to her garden in spring and summer.  She especially enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s school programs and activities and took great pride in their accomplishments.

Kay’s legacy is carried on by her loving children, Mary Pat Burns of Maquoketa, IA, Dr. Joe Lechtenberg Jr. of Baldwin, IA, Ed (Annette) Lechtenberg of Maquoketa, IA, Kurt (Laurie) Lechtenberg of Coralville, IA, Karl Lechtenberg of Bettendorf, IA, Kathy (Rick) Schmidt of Maquoketa, IA, and Annette (Robert) Brasko of Apopka, FL; her daughter-in-law, Sandy Lechtenberg of GA; her adored 11 grandchildren, and her 17 great-grandchildren, who will miss her deeply. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, her son Robert Lechtenberg, son-in-law Mike Burns, and her brothers Richard and David Bronson.

A funeral mass celebrating her life will be held at 11 A.M., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held prior to the mass on Saturday from 9:30 A.M. to 10:45 A.M., at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Maquoketa.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, memorials may be directed to Hospice of Jackson County.

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

Valeria J. Bockensted

Valeria Jane Bockenstedt, 86, of Petersburg, died the evening of September 29, 2025, at the Good Neighbor Home, in Manchester, after a lengthy illness.

Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa.  Visitation will continue from 9-10 a.m. at the funeral home on Friday prior to funeral service.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Petersburg with burial in the church cemetery.  Rev. Hung Le will officiate.

Valeria was born January 27, 1939, in Petersburg, Iowa. She was the daughter of William and Calista (Klaus) Goedken and was one of eleven children. Valeria graduated from Colesburg High School in 1958. She married Irvin Bockenstedt on September 12, 1959, in Petersburg. Irvin passed away on July 4, 2009. Together they farmed and raised their family on the Bockenstedt homestead near Petersburg. Valeria was a long-time member of the SS Peter and Paul Parish in Petersburg. She enjoyed gardening, quilting, and scrapbooking. Valeria especially enjoyed cooking and baking; some of her favorites to bake were apple pies and chocolate chip cookies. Valeria was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother. She was a quiet and reserved woman who took great pride in providing care for her family.

Surviving are her six children, Sharon Brown of Cedar Rapids, Jim of Earlville, Duane (Jami) of Norwalk, Steve (Lori) of Dubuque, Keith (Kristi) of Petersburg, and Gary (Julie) of Manchester; nineteen grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren and five great, great grandchildren; sisters Inez Hermsen of Manchester and Carol (Dale) Clemen of Asbury; in laws, Patsy Goedken of Manchester, Marilyn Goedken of Petersburg, and Janet Rolfes of Osage, John Bockenstedt of Cedar Rapids, Mary Bockenstedt of Dubuque, and Virgil (Sue) Bockenstedt of Dubuque; and many nieces and nephews.

Valeria was preceded in death by her parents, William and Calista Goedken; her parents-in-law, John F. And Hilda Bockenstedt; her husband, Irvin; son-in-law, Beryle Brown; her siblings, Gilbert (Germaine) Goedken, Helen (Emil) Wilgenbusch, Stella (Leo) Demmer, Norma (Vernon) Brunsman, Mary Lou (Elmer) Engelken, Francis Hermsen, Lavern Goedken, John Goedken, Patricia Rolfes, and Marvin Rolfes; brothers and sisters-in-law, Pearl (Victor) Meier, Jeanne (Henry) Oberbroeckling, Arlene (Ambrose) Langel, Dorothy Bockenstedt, Walter Bockenstedt, Vernon (Sharon) Bockenstedt; and several nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to the Meadows and Good Neighbor Home of Manchester, Regional Medical Center of Manchester, Tri-State Dialysis of Manchester, and St Croix Hospice.

Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville is assisting the family.  Information is available at https://www.kramer-morrisfuneralhome.com.

Robert J. Gallagher

Robert “Bob” Joseph Gallagher, age 76, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family at the St. Dominica Villa. A funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church in Hazel Green, WI, on Friday, October 3, 2025, at 11 AM. Family and friends may call after 9 AM at the church until the time of the service. All are welcome to join in honoring Bob’s life and legacy. The Furlong Funeral Chapel, in Galena, IL, is assisting the family with services.

Born in Dubuque, IA, to Margaret and James Gallagher, Bob grew up in Dubuque and later moved to Galena after marrying the love of his life, Connie Heller. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised six children: Brian Gallagher, Gina (Chuck) Blasen, Kevin (Kathy) Gallagher, James (Heather) Gallagher, Mike (Janet) Gallagher, and David Gallagher. He was a proud grandfather to Logan, Raine, Julia, Jack, Sawyer, Maverick, Farrah, Raylan, Sydney, and Kramer Gallagher; Maggie, William, and Thomas Blasen; and two recently added bonus grandchildren, Emily Schroeder and Ayden Schwartz.

Bob’s career was dedicated to helping others. He began his work in social services and served countless children through his work at Keystone Area Education Agency, where his compassion and commitment made a lasting impact.

Bob was a lifelong fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Green Bay Packers. His favorite pastimes included camping, relaxing at the beach during family vacations, and attending his grandchildren’s many activities. One of the most cherished moments of Bob’s life was a recent family vacation to Table Rock Lake, MO, where he was surrounded by all his children and grandchildren. It was a celebration of love, laughter, and togetherness—everything Bob valued most.

Since 2014, Bob has lived with renewed health and gratitude thanks to a life-saving kidney donation from his brother, Tom Gallagher. These past 11 years were a true gift—bonus years filled with memories, milestones, and deep appreciation. The Bob Gallagher family is forever grateful to Uncle Tom for his selfless act of love.

In addition to his immediate family, Bob is also survived by his siblings: Patrick Gallagher, Jeanne (Bill) Breitbach, Tom (Cindy) Gallagher, Katie (Doug) Bailey, and his sister-in-law, Kris Gallagher. He is also survived by his in-laws: Glen (Diane) Heller, Jerry (Ann) Heller, Kenny Heller, Jane (Dave) McCartney, Betty (Dan) Wubben, Terry (Jeanne) Heller, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret and James Gallagher; his in-laws, Harry and Teresa Heller; his brother, Tim Gallagher; his sisters-in-law, Eileen Gallagher and Laurie Theill; his brother-in-law, David Runde; his niece, Lindsay Wubben; his nephew, Eric Heller; and his great-nephews, Brady Heller and Henry Heller.

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

RuthAnn M. Jess

RuthAnn M. (Marshall) Jess, 78 of Bellevue, passed away on Monday, September 29, 2025 at Mill Valley Care Center in Bellevue.   A Celebration of Life will be  held  on October 19th  from 3:00pm-5:00pm  at the K.C. Hall.

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

RuthAnn was born February 6, 1947, the daughter of Robert and Dorothy (Mesch) Marshall.   She graduated from Marquette Catholic High School in 1965.

Survivors include her children, Tammy Muller, Scott (Ashlee) Jess, and Brian (Angela) Jess; 9 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; her companion of 40 years, Paul Denolf, and his daughter Krista (Tommy) Demoss; siblings, Jerry (Ruth) Marshall; Sally (Nick) Fondell; sister in-law, Barb Marshall; and a brother in-law, Joe Hipschen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

RuthAnn was preceded in death by her parents; siblings, Robert “Joe” Marshall and Kay Hipschen.

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

Joyce E. Vallet

Joyce E. Vallet, age 82, of Dubuque, IA, floated peacefully into the ether on September 24, 2025, at Mercy Hospital. She was surrounded by the love of her family and friends, her husband and children whispering their love and gratitude to her as she transitioned. No services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Joyce’s family.

Joyce was born on July 8, 1943, in Clinton, IA, daughter to Christopher and Florence (Edens) Ketelsen. The many who loved her best, however, will know her by Flowers, a nickname given to her by her husband, George Vallet, Jr. (better known as Deco), early in their relationship.

Flowers lived a life deeply rooted in love and community. She married Deco on September 16, 1962, recently celebrating 63 years together. Together, they were one-half of Vallet Food Service, a business they owned and operated for more than 30 years. They loved each other through every happiness and hardship, building a family and life in the Midwest (except for Winters after they retired when they fled to the South).

She listened more than she talked, and was quick with both encouragement and a reminder that she believed in you. She saw the best in everyone she met, and had a sincere and gentle curiosity that allowed for easy connection with others. She lived with her heart wide open and ended most every conversation with “I love you,” never missing an opportunity to let friends and family know how important they were to her.

Her three grandchildren were her entire heart. She loved them endlessly and unconditionally, cheering them on and lifting them up. Some of her greatest joy came from watching them grow up and pursue their own interests and passions. “BIRTHDAY IDEAS!!!,” “I miss you!,” and heart emojis were common, frequent texts between them. 

She waited patiently for the orioles and hummingbirds to come back every year, fed the deer, raccoons and squirrels who visited her backyard, and loved working in her garden, where she tried to keep a Gardenia plant alive every year (and often succeeded until she tried to overwinter them inside!)

Her own experience helping run a family business made her especially loyal to locally owned businesses, like Big Apple Bagel, where she started almost every morning with a cinnamon crunch bagel and a root beer (with lots of ice), or Contempo Salon Spa, where she freshened her hair every month (“I’m not ready to go gray!”).

Flowers was a fierce and constant advocate for vulnerable communities, most especially LBGTQ+ youth. Her example of not only compassion but a commitment to true understanding and respect for everyone’s individual experience helped many people deepen their own appreciation for our common humanity.

In one of her last conversations, Flowers said she’d like to live forever, and if everyone who truly loved her promises to live just part of their life as she lived hers, she will.

Joyce’s family would like to thank everyone at the Asbury Fire Department, along with the doctors, nurses and staff in the Mercy ER and ICU for their comprehensive and compassionate care.

Those left to cherish the memory of Joyce include,

her loving husband,
George W. Vallet, Jr., Dubuque, IA;

her two children,
Mark (Sarah) Vallet, Franktown, CO,
Michelle Vallet, Chicago, IL;

her three adored grandchildren,
Katie Vallet, Jack Vallet and Ben Garcia;

along with numerous extended family, friends, and neighbors.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Larry (Margo) Ketelsen.

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

Jeff Nagle

Jeff Nagle, 67, of Dubuque, died Thursday, September 25, 2025, at UnityPoint Health-St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids.

Per Jeff’s wishes, there will be no formal services. Burial will be at Chapel Hill Cemetery in Freeport, Illinois.

Jeff was born on November 25, 1957, the son of Robert and Betty Nagle.

Jeff was the owner of Wheeler Dealer magazine, making it the first car magazine ever made.

To say Jeff loved golf would be an understatement. A proud member of The Meadows Golf Club, he attended 57 Masters tournaments in a row and built an impressive collection of golf memorabilia. Beyond the greens, Jeff was also a member of the Dubuque Shooting Society, 660 Club, and he enjoyed traveling wherever life’s adventures took him.

Survivors include his step-father, Al Cordes of Dubuque; and good friend, Newel Marcov of Dubuque.

Jeff was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Bob and David.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to St. Luke’s Hospital and hospice in Cedar Rapids for their compassionate care.

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 Jeff’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Leon J. Bauer

Leon J. “L.J.” Bauer, age 82, of Hazel Green, passed away on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at MercyOne Dubuque.  To celebrate Leon’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Church, North Buena Vista, Iowa.  There will also be visitation held before the funeral service on Wednesday at the church hall from 9:00 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. in North Buena Vista.  Burial will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Buena Vista.

Leon was born on June 30, 1943, at home on the family farm in North Buena Vista, the son of Joseph and Althea (Petsche) Bauer.

Leon attended Immaculate Conception Grade School and then transferred to Guttenberg for high school.  He was employed in the upholstery department at Flexsteel for over 42 years until his well earned retirement.

Leon married MaDonna Eggers, on May 27, 1967, at the Immaculate Conception Church in Kieler, Wisconsin.  They were an amazing couple who raised 3 wonderful children.

Leon was extremely generous with sharing his time and talents.  He was very active with the Boy Scouts of America, and served as a Scout Master for several years.  Leon was a talented woodworker who made intricate wooden toys, high chairs and cradles.  He loved creating beautiful pieces and giving his creations away to family and friends.  Leon had a green thumb.  He grew Hostas and shared his plants with others so they could enjoy them in their own gardens.  His generosity truly knew no limits.  Leon was always very involved with the community.  He volunteered regularly and donated countless items for auctions throughout the years.  Leon appreciated nature and enjoyed feeding the wild birds, especially Hummingbirds.  He enjoyed spending time on the water canoeing with the family.  His family and friends were the world to him.  Leon always made time to stop and enjoy the day and visit with others he encountered along the way.  Leon was a wonderful husband, dad and pappa, who was an outstanding role model for his family.  We are truly heartbroken at losing Leon so suddenly in our daily lives.  He was a great man, and we will miss him tremendously. 

Those left to cherish Leon’s memory include

his wife, Donna Bauer, Hazel Green, WI;

his children,
Ronda (Steven) Brimeyer, Dubuque, IA,
Robert (Elizabeth) Bauer, Hazel Green, WI
and Dawn (Jeffrey) Schonhoff, Savage, MN;

10 grandchildren; Logan, Erica, Morgan, Devyn, Willow, Jonathan, Elizabeth, Stephanie, Gregory and William;

his siblings, Francis (Brenda) Bauer, Cassville, WI,
Linda Hogan, Holy Cross, IA
Julie Johnson, Brighton, CO,
John (Pat) Bauer, North Buena Vista, IA,
Ed Bauer, Dubuque, IA,
Mary Jane (Dan) Jacobson, Dubuque, IA,
Laura (Tony) King, Fairview Heights, IL,
Andy (Pam) Bauer, Dubuque, IA
and Tim (Dawn) Bauer, Adel, IA;

and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Kenneth Bauer Sr.

Leon’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of the Cardiovascular Unit at MercyOne for their kindness, compassion and outstanding care, not only for Leon, but the entire family.

Cards and memorials in Leon’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Leon Bauer Family.

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

Jean Ann Heckelsmiller

Jean Ann Heckelsmiller, age 93, of Dubuque, passed away on Friday, September 26, 2025, at Dubuque Specialty Care.  To celebrate Jean’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:30 a.m. until 10:15 a.m., on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at Nativity Church, 1225 Alta Vista Street, where the rosary will be recited at 10:00 a.m.  Funeral services will be held after visitation at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday at the church with Father Stephen Audu officiating.  Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery.  Behr Funeral Home is assisting Jean’s family.

Jean was born on August 18, 1932, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Arthur and Dorothy (Adams) Meyer.
Jean graduated from the Visitation Academy, Class of 1949 and from Clarke College, Class of 1977.  She was employed as a clerk with Dubuque County for 18 years until her retirement in 1994.  She was very devoted to her Catholic faith.  Jean was a member of Nativity Church where she was a Guild member, a member of the Rosary Society, helped with C.E.W. weekends and was part of Wee Care.  Jean loved children and was a part of the Foster Grandparent Program at Lincoln School for 15 years.  She enjoyed spending time with her family, working in her gardens and stargazing.  Her beloved dogs, Jolene and Sparky, also held a special place in her heart.  She will be deeply missed.

Those left to cherish Jean’s memory include

her children,
Karen (Ronald) LeClaire, Peotone, IL,
Dennis Heckelsmiller, Dubuque, IA,
David (Jennie) Heckelsmiller, Palatine, IL
and John Heckelsmiller, Key West, FL;

12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and a great great-grandson.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Betty (Norris) Trevethan.

Jean’s family would like to thank Dr. Runde and his staff, the nurses and staff of Dubuque Specialty Care and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care of Jean.

Cards and memorials in Jean’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. Jean Heckelsmiller Family, and will be distributed to the Catholic Extension Society.

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

Judy Bonnet

Judy Bonnet, 72, of North Liberty, Iowa, formerly of East Dubuque, IL, passed from this life on September 23, 2025 after a long struggle with cancer. She was born February 2, 1953 in Dubuque, Iowa to Carlton and Virginia Christman and married Ken Bonnet on April 10, 1982. An alum of the University of Dubuque, Judy taught in the Dubuque Community School District for 18 years before moving to Fulton, Illinois and becoming the fitness director at the Clinton YWCA for several years.

Volunteerism, however, was foremost in Judy’s life.  Since 13 years of age, Judy served as a pianist and organist of every Methodist church to which she belonged. Her pride and joy at Rockdale was organizing a fundraising cookie walk that continued for more than 25 years, for which she often baked 400 dozen or more cookies and created pounds of candy. With the same enthusiasm, she organized successful walks for UMC of North Liberty as well. Judy loved mowing grass at the church and volunteered over 7,500 hours at the North Liberty Community Pantry. Her favorite part of service at the pantry was securing stock of coats, hats, socks, toiletries, and school supplies for clients.

Despite her many commitments, Judy always had time for the weekly Tuesday Lunch Bunch and Sunday night suppers with family, cheering on her beloved Hawkeye and Fever teams, and prepping for holidays. Her totes of decorations, themed leggings and jewelry, Halloween chicken costume, and even her Mardi Gras hat made her celebrations one-of-a-kind.

Surviving are Judy’s husband of 43 years, Ken; her sister Betty (Loras) Baum; her nephew Matt (Stephanie) Baum; her brother-in-law Steve (Barb) Bonnet; her niece Leslie Bonnet; her nephew Patrick (Ashley) Bonnet; and great-nephew and great-niece Henry and Claire Bonnet.

Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm on Saturday, October 4 at First United Methodist Church of North Liberty, with a memorial service to follow at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be given in Judy’s name to the North Liberty Community Pantry, 350 W Penn St, North Liberty, Iowa 52317.

The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque, IL is assisting the family.

Karl Lawrence Behning

Karl “Goose” Lawrence Behning, 67, of Dubuque Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on September 22, 2025.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 5 from 2 to 5 p.m. with a Christian service  at 4:00 p.m. at the Peosta Community Centre, 7896 Burds Road, Peosta.

Goose was born on March 9, 1958, to Karl Francis Behning and Shelvigene Eva (Lenzendorf) Blocklinger in Harpers Ferry, Iowa.

After graduating from Hempstead High School in 1976, he worked at Eagles Supermarket on Elm Street as a night stocker. Over the years, he worked his way up to Store Manager. Additionally, he had the opportunity to work at Behning Concrete Construction alongside his brother, Kevin, and his brothers and dad. After the Eagle stores closed, he worked at Hobby Lobby, Prudential Retirement, and most recently Area Residential Care (ARC) until his retirement in 2023.

With his care-giving heart, Goose cared for his mother, treasured his time with his nieces and nephews, and enjoyed time spent with the residents at ARC. Outside of work, he took great pleasure in the outdoors – trout fishing, deer hunting, camping and hiking. Yellow River State Forest, with both its natural beauty and the site of his father’s birth-place home, was a life-long favorite location for him to spend time.  Goose’s varied interests included listening to his vast music collection, collecting antiques, loving his pets and in his younger years playing softball.

Goose is survived by his four brothers: Kevin (Julie) of Dubuque, Kraig of Auburn, IA, Kurt (Patti) of Coralville, and Kimball (Ann) of Cedar Rapids. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Brooke (Tom) Cooney, Meghan, Leah and Danny Behning; Shelby (Kyle) Christina and Sydney Behning; Spencer (Myra) and Delaney Behning; and his cherished aunt Florence (Behning) Jones from up North. He also had a very good friend, Kim Steines.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a nephew, Jonathon Behning, and many aunts, uncles and cousins.