Obituaries Archive

Sr. Helen Hurley, OP

Sister Helen Hurley, OP, died Dec. 18, 2025, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, Wis. Her Funeral Mass will take place 11 a.m. Tues., Dec. 30 at St. Clara Chapel, Sinsinawa, Wis., with burial to follow in St. Clara Cemetery. Miller Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

She was born Sept. 2, 1936, to Francis “Frank” and Mae (Peterson) Hurley in Green Bay, Wis. She made profession with the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa in 1956 and received the religious name Sister Marcellus. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Edgewood College, Madison, Wis., and her Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Sister Helen’s ministry was dedicated to teaching. In Illinois, she taught at St. Patrick School, Lemont, and St. Richard School, Chicago. In Wisconsin, she taught at St. Mary School, Appleton; St. Thomas Aquinas School, Milwaukee; and St. Jerome School, Columbus. She was director of religious education at St. Patrick Parish, Green Bay. Sister Helen was an associate professor in early childhood education at Edgewood College. She served as pastoral associate at St. Kilian Parish, Hartford, and at St. Olaf Parish where she also served as director of religious education, DeForest. She was assistant prioress at the Dominican Motherhouse, Sinsinawa Mound. Elsewhere, she served as teacher at All Saints School, Los Angeles, Calif.; physical therapist at St. Dominic Villa, Dubuque, Ia.; principal at St. John Vianney School, Spokane, Wash.; and pastoral administrator at St. Helen Parish, Malone, N.Y. She brought a spirit of cooperation and community to every place she ministered.

Sister Helen was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Mary Becker, Theresa Rose Hurley, Alice Wall, Katy Kyles, Edith Jonet, and Sally Clarksen; and brothers Eugene, Maurice, and David Hurley. She is survived by nieces, nephews, and her Dominican Sisters. Memorials may be made to the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, 585 County Road Z, Sinsinawa, Wis., or given online at www.sinsinawa.org/donate.

Rita M Eversoll

Rita Mary Eversoll (Pink) has returned home to our heavenly father having lived 93 wonderful years as a servant leader and humble follower of Christ. She passed away peacefully, doing what she was lovingly known for, “chatting” and watching the happenings around the nurse’s station. God called her home gently, in a manner fitting for one of the most kind and gentle souls this side of heaven.

Rita was born in Lancaster, WI to John and Charlotte Pink (Seipp), April 23, 1932. She attended St Clements church while growing up in Lancaster, close with her many cousins. She was a lover of music, lettering several times. She and her cousin Joan were drum majorettes for the Lancaster high school band, where she enjoyed years of football and basketball games and could still sing the Lancaster school song into her 90’s. Her upbringing in Lancaster rooted her in faith and community. Rita attended Clark College and majored in sociology with a minor in psychology. While attending Clark she met her husband, Louis (Jack) Eversoll, who courted her through his deployment to Korea. They married in 1954 and were blessed with their son, David, soon after. Rita’s life was rich with servant leadership demonstrated through community service and Christ like humility and generosity. Rita gave her heart to homemaking, motherhood, becoming a “secretary” for her husband’s family business, Eversoll Electric, as well as joining the American Legion Auxiliary –  “The Poppy Lady”, volunteering as a Girl Scout leader and eventual two time council President of Green Hills Council, a Badger Girl State counselor, leading the rosary weekly at several area senior homes, as well as serving in many capacities as a dedicated parishioner in Saint Mary’s church – where she was loving known as the “hat lady” because she never went to church without wearing one.

Rita filled her days as a dedicated volunteer for over 50 years and was recognized for her dedication, being honored as a Platteville Citizen of the Year. There was no task too unpleasant for Rita to take on. She rose to God’s call when and where He beckoned her. She was someone people and organizations counted on. She was the hands and feet of our Lord and savior in every way He called her to be, for decades. She sought no credit. She glorified God our father whom she entrusted with her life’s purpose… no matter what. The community was her mission field. Every day. Without falter, Rita embodied the American Legion saying, “Service over Self” and set a high standard of what it means to be a follower of Christ. In doing so she inspired countless others to follow her lead in serving. Her faith, patriotism, and selfless nature helped to influence her family, friends, and fellow volunteers.

Rita is remembered fondly and will be deeply missed though we celebrate and REJOICE in knowing that she is eternally with our savior. Services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 at St Mary’s Church in Platteville with a visitation from 9-10:30am and funeral mass at 11am with the luncheon immediately following the service.

Rita is preceded in death by her parents John and Charlotte Pink (Seipp), husband Louis (Jack) Eversoll, niece Janice Scantlin (Eversoll), and grandson Jon Eversoll. She is survived by her son and daughter in law David and Charlotte Eversoll (Oatsvall), granddaughter Nicole (Eversoll) and Matt Tyc, great grandchildren Maci and Lilly Eversoll, and Olivia, Moira, Jack, and Jon Tyc.

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

Eldon R. Busch

Eldon Richard Busch, age 87, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away at home on December 22, 2025.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Dec 27th at St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, Iowa, followed by a funeral at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Will Layton officiating.  Burial will be in St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, Dubuque, Iowa, is assisting the family.

Eldon was born on August 16, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa to John and Frieda (Lubs) Busch.  He grew up on a farm near St. Donatus, Iowa, attended Bellevue High School and graduated from the University of Dubuque; he also served in the Iowa Army National Guard.

Eldon was a lifelong member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in St. Donatus, Iowa and was united in marriage to Donna. J. Bormann there in 1964.

Eldon and Donna farmed together in Bellevue for over 50 years. Beyond Farming, Eldon pursued careers in agricultural banking and crop insurance adjusting, which allowed him to travel widely. He also contributed his time as a board member for the Maquoketa Valley Rural Electric Cooperative and held multiple leadership roles on the church council.

Eldon is survived his loving wife, Donna; his daughter, Joan (Eric) Clark, of Madison, WI, his son, John (Julie) Busch of Bellevue, IA and his beloved grandchildren Ben Busch of Bellevue and Brianna Busch of New Braunfels, TX; brother, Carlton Busch; sisters-in-law: Norma Bormann, Norla Bormann, Wanda Bormann, Verla Beck and Mary Busch, along with many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frieda Busch; brothers, Roger, Harvey, and Norman Busch; in-laws, William and Viola Bormann; brothers-in-law, William, Vernon, and Glen Bormann, Jimmy Bradley, and Bill Beck; sisters-in-law, Shirley Busch and Lois Ann Bradley; nephew, Allen Busch; and nieces, Dixie Clasen and Susan Simmons.

Dad simply wanted to have each day be a “good day.”

The family wishes to thank all the health care professionals, especially to Hospice of Dubuque and Dr. Mark Hermann for all their wonderful care and compassion.

Harold J. Nauman

Harold Julius Nauman, 88, of Sherrill, passed away peacefully Monday, December 22, 2025, at his home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 pm until 7:00 pm Friday, December 26, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Harold will be at 10:00 am Saturday, December 27, 2025, at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church with Father Tyler Raymond as the Celebrant. Burial will be at SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery in Sherrill. Military honors will be rendered by the Iowa Army National Guard.

Harold was born February 9, 1937, in Sherrill, IA, the son of Edward Nicholas and Anna Elizabeth (Schueller) Nauman. He was the favorite brother of his 6 sisters. On May 19, 1962, he married Madonna Lorene Klein at St. Francis of Assisi in Balltown, IA. In those 63 years of marriage, they were blessed with 5 wonderful children.

He was a U.S. Army National Guard Veteran, serving from 1958 until 1965.

A third-generation farmer on the Nauman Family Dairy Farm, Harold took great pride in continuing his family’s farming legacy. The farm was his happy place, where he spent countless days doing what he loved most.  Harold loved being behind the wheel of one of his beloved red tractors and in later years rode along with his sons and grandsons. Known for his sweet tooth, Harold never passed up a good treat. He knew all the secret spots for picking black raspberries, a key ingredient in Madonna’s famous jelly.

He was deeply proud of his family, and nothing made him happier than time spent together. Harold spent his final day surrounded by those he loved most, as his entire family gathered to celebrate Christmas. He now joins his daughter, Judy, in heaven, where they are together once again.

Survivors include his wife, Madonna Lorene Nauman of Sherrill; his children, son-in-law, Rick Brimeyer of Sherrill; Dale (Linda) Nauman of Sherrill, Sherry (Rodney) Schroeder of Dubuque, Dave (Kari) Nauman of Sherrill, and Sue (Kevin) Hanger of Dickeyville, WI; 17 grandchildren, Matt, Sarah, Kayla, Becca / Kevin, Kari, Kody / Chelsey, Katelyn, Nathan / Tyler, Emma / Andrea, Justin, Brian, and Brandon; 25 great-grandchildren and four on the way; one sister, Bernice Ehrlich of Dubuque; and siblings-in-law, Marleen Klein, Jack Bahl, Loras (Marlene) Klein, Lenny (Judy) Klein, Nancy (Joe) Banwarth, Leon Klein, Marie Schwers, Sandy Pierce, Lonnie (Dianne) Klein, and Sandy (Dave) Kauffman.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Anna; a daughter, Judy Brimeyer; granddaughter, Emily; great-granddaughter, Maleigha; an infant brother; five sisters, Marie (Norbert) Dupont, Lorrainne (Vernon) Weber, Rita (Earl) Kintzle, Ruth (Lester) Weber and Doris Ann (George “Nicky”) Wolf; and siblings-in-law, Paul Ehrlich, Lester Klein, Arlene Bahl, Merle Schwers, and Lyle Klein.

A memorial has been established.

Harold’s family would like to extend a thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, the staff at Stonehill At Home, and all of his in-home caregivers for their care and support.

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

Joseph A. Accola

Joseph “Joe” Arnold Accola, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on December 19, 2025, surrounded by his soulmate, Julie, and other loved ones.

Friends and family may visit from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque. A Time of Remembrance Service will begin at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque.

Joseph was born on August 7, 1947, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Arnold J. and Muriel M. (Erschen) Accola. Joe worked for several years at Star Brewery before beginning a long career in the casino industry throughout the Tri-State area. He spent 25 years with Diamond Jo Casino before retiring in 2023.

Joe enjoyed not only his time as a blackjack dealer, but also long walks with Julie at the Mines of Spain and other local parks. The two loved to travel, dine out, and spend many evenings playing cards and always keeping track of who won the most games. Joe also deeply loved his cats, Buffie and Abbie, who happily returned all the attention he gave them.

Those left to cherish Joe’s memory include his soulmate, Julie; his stepchildren, Joshua Billmeyer of Dubuque, Vania (Scott) Riedl of Galena, Judd (Ashley) Billmeyer of Farley, and Alisia (Jimmy) Peacock of Dubuque; eight step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; his sister, Joyce Thompson of California; his niece, Jennifer Schmid; and his nephew, Nicholas Schmid. He will also be fondly remembered by many friends, family members, and coworkers.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Muriel Accola; his sisters, Rosemary and Kim; his brother, Bruce; his nephew, Jeffrey Schmid; and his stepson, Luke Billmeyer.

The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the nurses and staff of Hospice of Dubuque. A special thank you is also given to longtime family friend Lyle Hennings for being a devoted and caring friend to Joe.

Laurie B. Janssen

Laurie B. Janssen, 66, of rural Epworth, Iowa, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025 at the Unity Point Finley Hospital in Dubuque, Iowa.

Friends and relatives of Laurie may call from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa where services for Laurie will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Funeral Home with Deacon Nick Elliott presiding.   Burial will be held in Highview Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

She was born November 3, 1959 in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Kenneth and Betty (Schmitt) Janssen.  She is a 1978 graduate of Western Dubuque High School.   She also graduated from the University of Dubuque with a Teaching Certification.  She was employed at Waldon Books and later at McGraw-Hill.  She loved spending time taking care of her flower gardens and vegetable gardens.

She is survived by her brother, James (Mary) Janssen of Farley, IA; a brother-in-law, Terry Smith of Pocatello, ID; a niece and nephew, Kristine (Jay) Jubeck and Aaron Janssen; and one great nephew, Vincent Jubeck; an uncle, Michael Schmitt of Epworth, IA; an aunt, Sally Hentges of Dubuque, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Carrie Janssen-Smith in Feb, 2025; and a brother, Jeffery Janssen iDec. 2019; two uncles, Robert Schmitt and Carl Hentges.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

James A. Webster

James Arthur “Jim” Webster, 80, of Galena, IL, died on December 21, 2025, at Stonehill Care Center in Dubuque after battling Alzheimer’s Disease for several years.  To honor Jim’s life, a memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 29th, at Grace Episcopal Church, 107 S. Prospect St., in Galena, with visitation beginning at 12:00 noon.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jim’s family.

Jim was born on “V-J Day” August 15, 1945, in Miami, FL, to Claude and Velma (Ritchie) Webster. He grew up in Miami on 53rd Street and remained lifelong friends with many of his childhood neighbors. He graduated from Miami Edison High School in 1963 and obtained an Associates Degree from Miami Dade Junior College while working at the Miami Herald. He then moved north to study at the University of Missouri Journalism School where he received his Bachelor of Journalism degree and met J-school classmate, Kathleen Kettering.

Jim and Kathleen were married on February 22, 1969, at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland before moving to Chicago where Jim worked at the Chicago Tribune. It wasn’t long before they discovered Galena on a weekend trip, buying a house in 1970.  After a year of driving back and forth from Chicago every weekend, Jim and Kathleen moved to Galena permanently in 1971 and both began working at the Telegraph Herald in Dubuque. They remained in Galena where they raised their daughters and enjoyed life in their little corner of paradise on the edge of town. Jim and Kathleen owned and operated their Boutique PR firm, “Webster’s Unabridged,” from 1994 until retiring in 2018. They enjoyed many work trips with their friends in the Midwest Travel Writers Association.

Jim was a kind and compassionate neighbor who dedicated many hours of service to his community, serving as a board member or volunteer for several organizations including the Galena ARC, Jo Daviess Peace Fellowship, Dubuque Regional Humane Society, Galena Public Library District, Jo Daviess County Democrats and most recently the United Churches of Galena Food Pantry. He served Grace Episcopal Church as a lay reader and Bishop’s Warden in the 1980’s.

Jim was a prolific gardener, a creative cook, a reader, a writer, and a traveler. He particularly loved biographies and history, and enjoyed visiting the places he read about throughout North America and Europe. He enjoyed his work writing press releases and other PR material for local organizations, and was proud to have some of his well-penned letters to the editor printed in national publications. Jim loved being outside and walking his dogs in the parks and preserves around Galena and Dubuque.

Jim is survived by his wife Kathleen, daughters Rachel (Curtis Pierce) of Denver and Norah of Dubuque, and a sister Mary Joyce (Gary) Lewis of Cadiz, Kentucky, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and many beloved cats and dogs.

Jim’s family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Ahva Living of East Dubuque and Stonehill Care Center for their compassionate care and support.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Jim’s memory with a donation to Hospice of Dubuque, The Dubuque Regional Humane Society, The United Churches of Galena Food Pantry, or another cause you think he would appreciate.

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

Cheryl L. McCullouch

Cheryl L. McCullouch, 59, of Maquoketa, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, December 20, 2025.

Cheryl Lynn Koncel was born on January 29, 1966 in Chicago, Illinois, to Joesph and Frances (Zakrzewski) Koncel.  She grew up in Chicago.  She married Bill G. McCullouch Jr. on February 14, 1989 in Clinton, Iowa.

As a dedicated stay-at-home mom, Cheryl was the heart of her household, ensuring that her family was well-cared for and that their home was a place of warmth and happiness. Her presence was a comforting constant, and her ability to make everyone feel loved was one of her most remarkable qualities.

Cheryl’s interests and passions were a reflection of her vibrant spirit. She loved Elvis and was an avid Chicago Bears fan. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as going on dinner and movie dates with her husband, Bill, and spending sunny days swimming in and maintaining the family pool. However, nothing compared to the delight she took in spoiling her grandchildren.

The holidays were a special time for Cheryl, as she reveled in coordinating family gatherings and cookouts, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Her love for her family was the cornerstone of these occasions.

Cheryl’s legacy is carried on by her devoted husband, Bill G. McCullouch, Jr. of Maquoketa, IA; children, Krystle (Jamie) Dearth of Grand Mound, IA, Bill McCullouch III of Clinton, IA, Roxanne McCullouch of Maquoketa, IA, and Marcella McCullouch of Clinton, IA; 5 grandchildren, Vanessa Dearth, Jamie Dearth Jr., Piper Delagardelle, Willow Mains, and Athena Heusinkveld; sister, Tamara Linares of Pingree Grove, IL; and brothers, Brian Koncel of Anamosa, IA, Christopher (Sarah) Lopez of Clinton, IA, and Nicholas (Kera) Lopez of Clinton, IA.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother Joseph Koncel.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 7 P.M., Monday, December 29, 2025, at Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  Burial will be at the Andrew, Iowa Cemetery.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Cheryl L. McCullouch memorial fund has been established.

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

Samuel D. Engbrecht

Samuel D. Engbrecht, 78, of Dubuque died Saturday, December 20, 2025.  In keeping with his wishes, a private entombment was held at Linwood Cemetery. A memorial service will be held later in March at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Arrangements are pending at the Egelhof, Siegert and Casper Funeral Home.

Rose Lyons Wiley

Rose (Rosie) Lyons Wiley, flanked by both of her sons, died peacefully on December 18, 2025 after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

The family will greet friends and relatives from 9 to 10 a.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Temple Hill, Iowa, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Michael Schueller presiding. Burial will be held in the church cemetery.

Rosie was born in Dubuque, Iowa on July 21, 1943, the daughter of Mary and Lester Lyons. She was the sixth child of a sprawling Irish clan of ten children.  She was raised in the Temple Hill area. Her childhood years included living with a grandmother and great aunt in a bustling farmhouse that was never boring. She went through the first eight grades in the three-room St. Peter’s school. She was the last graduating class of St. Martin High School. She went on to join and leave the Franciscan order and eventually graduated from Mercy College in Cedar Rapids with a teaching degree.

Rosie went on to marry Jim Wiley who preceded her in death. She raised two sons, Scott (Eunsook), and Steve (Jenny). She loved her sons unconditionally. She gave them everything and was their North star—always providing the needed presence and security so they could flourish. Her sons brought three grandchildren: Kellan, Hannah, and Francesca into her life to cherish and carry on her legacy.

Most of her teaching years were spent in the Chicago Catholic schools and St. Celestine. She poured her heart into teaching first graders, especially the teaching of reading. She loved children’s literature and believed firmly in reading aloud to her students and her own boys.

Rosie loved family gatherings and looking at family pictures. She was quick to laugh and her colorful ways brought smiles to all. Humility is a rare virtue these days. Rosie had it in spades. She had no hidden agenda. She put others before herself, always.

Above all, Rosie was brave. She learned that at the feet of her parents. She faced her disease with stoic courage, never complaining as Parkinson’s kept robbing her of more and more. She aged the way she lived—making the best at what life threw at her.

Rosie lived a full, beautiful life. She leaves us all better, and has earned her place among the great communion of Saints. Rest in peace, Rosie. We will love and miss you forever.

She is survived by two sons, Scott (Eunsook) Wiley of Chicago, IL and Steve (Jenny) Wiley of Wheaton, IL; three grandchildren, Kellan, Hannah, and Francesca Wiley; her siblings, Pat Lyons of Cascade, IA, Carol Stachura of Inverness, IL, Jean (Joe) Lynch of Cascade, IA, Kenny (Mary) Lyons of Monticello, IA; and one brother-in-law, Harvey Denlinger of Epworth, IA.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jim Wiley in November of 1991; two sisters, Rosa (Fred) Crispo and Ellie Denlinger; three brothers, Richard Lyons, James (Pauline) Lyons and Loras Lyons; a sister-in-law, Betty Lyons, and a brother-in-law, Bill Stachura.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Joyce A. Veach

Joyce A. (Pancratz) Veach, 73, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones at Stonehill Health Center on December 19, 2025.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 21st, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road with a wake service to be held at 4:00 p.m. Additional visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, December 22nd, at St. Lawrence Otter Creek Church.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. at St. Lawrence Otter Creek with Fr. David Ambrosy officiating. Burial will follow at Assumption Cemetery, Sylvia Switch.

Growing up on the farm with her six siblings, her parents Leroy and Inez instilled the kindness and faith Joyce was known for all her life. Her love of flower gardening, baking and cooking were talents she possessed early on, with her being the designated helper in the kitchen growing up. Her dishes were often the most sought after at family gatherings with an ongoing family dispute on which dessert was the best, twinkie cake or buster bars.

She attended Capri College and owned Joyce’s Beauty Shop for many years before becoming a teaching assistant at Hillcrest School and then retiring to her favorite job as Gramma. She was active in her church throughout her life as a CCD teacher, board member and this past year in the Seven Sisters. During her 50 years of marriage to Richard Veach, she embodied everything a mother and grandmother should be. Her children and especially her grandchildren were her most cherished gifts.

Her many treasured friendships included her Bunco Club ladies, her Card Club couples, and her church family. The “Trolls” were a beloved group of lifelong friends whose bond was formed through years of shared adventures.

Joyce will be deeply missed by her husband Richard Veach, their children Luke (Jennifer) Veach, Melanie (Josh) Schwartz, Tyler (Brandi) Veach, Wesley (Jenna) Veach, their grandchildren Claira, Ellie, Natalie, Max, Noah, Addison, Hadley and Bryn, her siblings Mary Jo (Wayne) Pancratz, Tim (Mary Kay) Pancratz, Randy (Diane) Pancratz, Judy (Craig) Wurdinger, Peggy (Dennis) Denlinger, the Veach sister/brother-in-law’s, and her many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy and Inez Pancratz, and her brother Leo Pancratz.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, a memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank Dr. Engelman and his staff at Mercy Cancer Center, Hospice of Dubuque and the amazing staff at Stonehill Care Center for their excellent care.

Kevin C. Neylan

Just after midnight on December 18th, 2025, Kevin Charles Neylan of Guttenberg, Iowa completed his final trip around the sun. He was 10 days shy of his 79th birthday. He passed away while sleeping peacefully in his home. He spent his final hours surrounded by friends and family and had listened to the Cubs win the World Series (2016 replay) the night before while his daughter held his hand.

Kevin was born December 28th, 1946, in Rochester, MN to parents Charles and Marguerite Neylan. He was the second of three children. His older sister was Kathleen Neylan (1944-2020), and his younger sister is Rosemary Neylan (born 1949.) The three siblings maintained a deep and loving friendship throughout their entire lives—they always looked out for each other. They took a memorable trip to Ireland together in 2003. Rosemary (whom he called “Rosebud”) was with Kevin when he passed and took wonderful care of him in the months preceding his death.

Kevin grew up in Elkader and Garnavillo. He attended Campion High School for boys in Wisconsin. It was a challenging environment, but he made a lot of good friends. After he graduated, he promptly declared himself an atheist. He loved a good theological debate and kept an open mind about others’ beliefs throughout his life. After high school, he attended the University of Iowa, where he received an undergraduate degree in Philosophy/Pre-law. He always said his two favorite philosophers were Socrates and Jesus Christ. An early essay titled “On Liberty” by John Stuart Mill made a great impression on him, and he quoted it often. He attended law school at Creighton University in Nebraska, later transferring back to the University of Iowa where he received his law degree in 1970.

Kevin met and married Anne Rowley (now Pedersen) in 1968, and they had two children: Patrick Charles (born 1972) and Molly Jane (born 1975.) They were married for 25 years and remained friends after that.

In 1970, Kevin was drafted during the Vietnam war. Thankfully, he was not deployed overseas. He served honorably at Ford Ord near Monterey. He often said it was a mistake to leave California after the war; but the truth was that he loved Iowa, and it was in Iowa where he was happiest. He believed Wisconsin was the prettiest of all 50 states and that Guttenberg, right on the Mississippi River, was the prettiest town. He lived in Guttenberg for 46 years.

Kevin was a practicing attorney who was a member of the Iowa Bar Association for over 50 years. He served as Clayton County attorney in 1972 and went on to work at the Neylan Law Office in Elkader alongside his big sister, Kathleen. Later, he started his own successful law practice in Guttenberg. One of his career highlights was a case that he and Kathleen argued (and won) before the Iowa State Supreme Court in the early 80s. Kevin was a persuasive litigator; he had a gift with words. Although Kevin enjoyed helping people and the intellectual rigor of practicing law, he always warned his kids never to become lawyers. So, they didn’t!

Kevin had a great many interests over the years including lively conversations with family, beers with friends, golfing, billiards, boating, cards, trivia, and travel. He was an avid TV viewer, a self-declared “couch potato,” and he loved old movies, funny videos, almost all sporting events, and the latest dramas on Netflix. He was a political news junkie, a skilled (amateur) stock analyst, a fantasy football wizard, a die-hard Hawkeye, and a loyal Cubbie fan. He was also a great cook and made a mean pie (with the help of Mrs. Fields.)

Kevin had many beloved dogs throughout his entire life (Tom, Max, Jill, Sammy, and Rocky.) He once told his daughter, “Losing a dog is worse than losing a child!” She decided to let that one go by. Rosemary’s dog, Lily, was one of his greatest joys over the last few years; he always spoiled her with too many treats.

Kevin was probably best known for his humor; he had an impressively quick wit. His blue eyes literally twinkled when he told a joke, and he had a contagious laugh. He often said he wanted to live forever, because there was always a joke out there that he hadn’t heard. We all wish he had been able to do that, because he made the world a better place every day that he was on it. Jokes aside, he had a depth of spirit that few people can match. He was a critical thinker, a life-long philosopher, and a champion for the downtrodden. He was ethical, kind, and passionate about truth, liberty, and the Constitution, especially the First Amendment. He made so many friends throughout the years, from all different walks of life. He treasured them all, and he never let politics get in the way of people. He believed human beings are good at their core.

Perhaps what was most important to Kevin, in the end (which is true for so many of us)— is family. On that score, he was very rich, indeed. He was well loved and will never be forgotten. He was a fantastic father, brother, and friend. The loss is enormous, and his family will seek to honor his spirit in all that they do, going forward. He is survived by his sister Rosemary, his daughter Molly, his son Patrick, his daughter-in-law Sopheap, his many cousins, his many friends, and his two grandchildren who were the light of his life: Harrison (age 6) & Sawyer (age 4.)

Kevin’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at the VA and Hospice of Dubuque for all their professional and compassionate care, especially Kris, Jennie, and Mary.

A Celebration of Life party will be forthcoming when the weather warms up. In the meantime, online condolences may be shared with Kevin’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com or by sending a card to his house.

In lieu of flowers, please direct any donations to

The Humane Society of NE Iowa https://www.hsnei.org/
Or
The Clayton County Food Shelf
100 W Hill Street
St Olaf, IA
52072
(563)783-7794
Or
a local donation to the Guttenberg Veterinary Clinic, Guttenberg Library, or Guttenberg Hospital.

And if you really want to honor Kevin’s memory, check out On Liberty by John Stuart Mills. You can discuss it with him over a Guinness when you get up to heaven. He’d get a kick out of that:

https://gutenberg.org/files/34901/34901-h/34901-h.htm

Elizabeth Topf

Elizabeth “Betty” Topf, 82, formerly of Dubuque, Iowa, died Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at St. Camillus Memory Care in Wauwatosa.

A prayer service and time of sharing will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, December 28, 2025 at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory followed by visitation until 5:00 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Betty will be at 10:30 am on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Church of the Nativity with Father Stephen Audu as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Key West.

Born June 4th,1943 in Decorah, Iowa daughter of Freda (Heying) and Florian Buchheit of Ossian, Iowa. She married Mark Topf on June 17th,1972 at St. Joseph the Worker Church in Dubuque, Iowa. He preceded her in death on September 4, 2020. Betty received her college degree from Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, Iowa. She taught at St. Joseph the Worker, Beckman High School, Nativity, and Mazzuchelli Middle School until her retirement.

She had a tremendous love for her family, with special love for her grandkids. She always celebrated holidays with special meals, gifts and games. Friends were very important to her and they would talk for hours over lunch. Betty loved her career of teaching middle school aged students. She always said,“They were the best!”

While at Nativity, she was instrumental in getting Mock Trial started in Dubuque and always had a team or two ready for State competition. One of her greatest joys was to write and produce plays with her 7th and 8th grade students as an end of the year gift to the younger students.

During her summers, Betty wrote middle school lesson plans for three religious textbooks published by Brown Roa. She also did supplemental writing ideas for reading textbook teacher manuals. Along with three other women, she helped begin the “Grieving Teachers Support Group” designed to help teachers who experience the loss of a student.

Betty had a full life. She deeply loved her Catholic faith- she loved her family and friends- loved to teach- loved to write- loved sports and was an avid fan of Wahlert sports, the Cubs, and the Hawkeyes.

Her goal in life was to live out the words of poet Emily Dickinson, “If I can help one fainting robin unto his nest, I shall not have lived in vain.”

Those here to honor her memory include three daughters, Michelle (Joe Tustin) Topf of Denver, CO, Jennifer (Rick) Meyers of Milwaukee, WI, and Kelly (Benjamin) Johnson of Golden, CO; four grandchildren, Jack and Gabriel Meyers, and Aiden and Mia Johnson; three sisters, Toni Strey, Pat (Bob) Eldan, and Jeanne (George) Lucero; one brother, Joe (Linda) Buchheit; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by five brothers, Sonny, Ambrose, Kelly, Del, and Harry Buchheit; one sister, Pam Buchheit; and two sisters-in-law, Colette Buchheit and Helen Buchheit.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Betty’s honor.

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

June B. Duttle

June B. “Babe” Duttle, age 97, of Dubuque, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at home with her family.  To celebrate June’s life, family and friends may visit from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., on Monday, December 22, 2025, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street.  Funeral services will be held at 5:00 p.m., at the funeral home with Rev. Jonathan Crawford officiating.

Babe was born on June 16, 1928, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of Theodore and Anna (Miller) Kalloway.

Babe attended Marshall Grade School, Jefferson Middle School and Dubuque Senior High School.  After school, she went to work at Farber Bag and later worked as a Nurses Aide and Medical Technician at St. Dominic Villa until her retirement.  She married Raymond Duttle on January 9, 1954, in Savannah, Illinois.  They celebrated 57 wedding anniversaries together before he passed away on March 13, 2011.  She was always on the go and a very active person.  Babe had a competitive side and liked to play baseball and go bowling.  Babe also enjoyed sitting quietly sewing, knitting and putting together jigsaw puzzles.  In her later years, Babe kept a watchful eye on things, and became the best Neighborhood Watch person you could ever ask for.  Babe also loved all dogs, big and small.  She was known to be a little bit feisty with a heart of gold.  Babe was a wonderful woman and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

Those left to cherish Babe’s memory include

3 daughters,
Linda Willey, Dubuque, IA,
Michele “Mike” Thayer, Dubuque, IA
and Deinne “Dee” Kretchmar, Liberty, MO;

a bonus step-daughter,
Judy Odefey, Dubuque, IA;

11 grandchildren;

20 great-grandchildren;

and 10 great great-grandchildren.

Babe was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Raymond Duttle; a grandson, Craig Kretchmar; and 14 siblings.

The family would like to thank her daughter, Linda, and her neighbor Linda Behrens, for their outstanding care of Babe, allowing her to stay in the home she loved so much.

Cards and memorials in Babe’s memory may be mailed to Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001, Attn. June “Babe” Duttle Family.

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

Ruth A. Fransen

Ruth Ann Fransen, 84, of Peosta, Iowa, passed peacefully into eternal life on December 16, 2025. 

A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Peosta, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Entombment will be at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road, is assisting the family.

Born on March 21, 1941, in Key West to Ralph and Rita (Loes) Linden, Ruth grew up in a loving family rooted in faith, community, and hard work. She attended St. Joseph’s Elementary School in Key West, ICA for high school, and later earned her CNA degree from NICC.  On November 23, 1961, Ruth married the love of her life, Paul Fransen, at St. Joseph’s Church in Key West. Together they welcomed six children and built a lively, joyful household where faith, love, and laughter were always abundant.  In addition to her dedication to family, Ruth worked as a parts clerk at Air Cooled Engines and later as a CNA at Mt. Loretto. 

Ruth’s deep Catholic faith was the guiding force of her life. She attended daily Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and The Power of Prayer. Her commitment to protecting life was steadfast. She was a lifelong member of Dubuque County Right to Life, helped provide video content for local cable programming, and was an original member of Birthright. Her quiet, consistent advocacy touched countless lives.

Ruth loved running, music, and gardening—each offering a different outlet for her creativity and energy. An avid runner well into her later years, Ruth found joy and purpose on the roads and trails around Dubuque. One of her proudest athletic moments came at age 70, when she placed second in her age group among a field of more than 16,000 runners—a testament to her determination, discipline, and zest for life.

Music was another of Ruth’s greatest gifts. She taught piano to children in her neighborhood, performed in the Xavier Follies, and volunteered her talents at the Barn Community Theatre. Her gardens were legendary—beautiful, bountiful, and generously shared. She delighted in giving away more of her harvest than she kept, a reflection of her instinct to give freely and without fanfare.

Ruth is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Paul Fransen; her sisters Nancy Dorr and Peggy Lippe; her six children and their families: Lisa Cottrell of Peosta, IA (children Hunter Cottrell and Jamie (Anthony) Linder, and grandson Mason Linder); Brett Fransen of Peosta, IA; Paul (Karen) Fransen of Walton, KY, and their children Phoebe (Bryan) Johnson, Kierstin, Peyton, and Aubrey; Curt (Suzanne) Fransen of Dubuque, IA, and their children Ryan, Brenna, and Olivia; Aaron (Kim) Fransen of St. Louis, MO, and their children Drew, Nathan, and Wes; and Maggie (Jason) Grommon of Madison, WI, and their children Jacob, Caitlin, Colin, and Abbie. She is also survived by her foster-daughter Jane Weber.

Ruth is preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Mary Lou and Joan; her brothers Hank and William; her sister-in-law Carol Hemesath; and her brothers-in-law Gerald Hemesath, Dick Dorr, and Greg Lippe.

Ruth’s life was one of quiet generosity, faith-filled devotion, and unconditional love for her family and community. She will be remembered for her gentle humor, her musical spirit, her beautiful gardens, and the countless ways she gave of herself.

May she rest joyfully in God’s eternal embrace.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. The family would like to offer a note of heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Dubuque for their care and compassion over these past months.