Obituaries Archive

Nancy L. Dolan

Nancy L. Dolan, 88, of Dubuque, died Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury.

A private Mass of Christian Burial for Nancy will be held at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Nancy was born May 21, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of John and Bernadette Imhoff Dolan.

She had worked for John Deere in Dubuque and Moline.

Survivors include her sister, Judy (Lee) McDermott of Peosta, IA, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one sister, Carol (Tom) Murphy.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff of Hawkeye Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque, especially nurses Peggy and Kelly, for their exceptional care and kindness.

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

Dustin J. Ploessl

Dustin J. Ploessl, 36, of rural Holy Cross, Iowa, passed away Monday, December 29, 2025.

Visitation will be held 1 – 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Kramer-Morris Funeral Home in Dyersville, Iowa. Visitation will continue from 9 – 10 a.m. at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston prior to funeral services.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, January 12, 2026, at St. Clement Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa. Burial will be held at a later date. Rev. Steve Garner will assist, and Deacon Jim Koetz will assist.

Dusty was born November 1, 1989, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Ron and Bev (Steffen) Ploessl.  Dusty graduated from Western Dubuque in 2008 and was a proud fan of the Bobcats. He attended NICC in Calmar. He married Rachael Hosch on October 10, 2015, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa.

Dusty dedicated his life to his wife, children, and farming. He coached the boys’ baseball teams and cherished the time spent with family. He was an avid fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chicago Cubs, and Minnesota Vikings. He worked at John Deere in Dubuque, but his passion was farming.

He was outgoing and made time for all. He had a gift to socialize and meet new people, especially if there was a cold beer. He’ll be missed by many and his memory will live forever with those he loved by sharing special memories of Dusty.

Survivors include his wife of 10 years, Rachael and their children: Archie, Clark, Boyd, Vera; parents, Ron and Bev Ploessl of North Buena Vista; parents-in-law, Joe and Teresa Hosch of Farley; siblings: Dan (Livy) Ploessl, Jeff Ploessl, Mitch (Emily) Ploessl; in-laws: Dillon (Keri) Hosch, Hannah (Noel) Ostwinkle, godfather to Danielle, Jax, Kolt, and Hattie; many nieces, nephews, and aunts and uncles, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Donald and Rosemary Ploessl; maternal grandparents, Ralph and Ann Steffen; paternal grandparents-in-law, Fred and Delores Hosch; maternal grandparents-in-law, Bob and Pearl Kauffmann; godfather, Larry Steffen; uncles: Karle “Soap” and Joey Steffen; special friends, Tyler Gaul and Jim Wolf.

The family would like to thank the entire Holy Cross and North Buena Vista Fire & Ambulance.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred.

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

Arnieta M. Erickson

Arnieta M. “Neat” Erickson age 92, of Dubuque, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at Stonehill Health Center surrounded by her loving family.  To celebrate Neat’s life, family and friends may visit from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, where there will be a parish scripture wake service held at 3:30 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at St. Raphael Cathedral, 231 Bluff Street.  Entombment will be in the Mt. Olivet Cemetery Mausoleum.

Neat was born on February 24, 1933, in Rickardsville, Iowa, the daughter of Frank and Mary (Weidemann) Schmitt.

Neat married the love of her life, Robert Erickson, on June 24, 1952, in Lattnerville, Iowa.  They spent 46 wonderful years together before he preceded her in death on December 29, 1998.  She was a faith filled woman and a long time member of St. Raphael Cathedral.  In her free time Neat had many interests.  She was a regular Bingo player and was known to engage in a little “retail therapy”, from time to time.  Neat was a die hard Euchre player with a competitive streak that was unmatched.  She especially loved when she was able to win when playing against her kids.  Neat also liked listening to live music and loved going to watch all of her sons play local gigs.  Her family truly was her pride and joy.  She loved family gatherings and spending time with the grandkids, who affectionately referred to her as “Nanny”.  Neat was always interested in what everyone had going on, and kept up on all of their current activities.  Neat was a wonderful mom, Nanny, great-grandma and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Those left to cherish Neat’s memory include

6 children,
Pam (Milt) Pfohl, Kieler, WI,
Kevin (Lisa) Erickson, Dubuque, IA,
Kerry (Stacey) Erickson, Dubuque, IA,
Kelly (Vicki) Erickson, Dubuque, IA,
Jill (Kenny) Wiebusch, Beaumont, TX
and Korey Erickson, Oshkosh, WI;

a son-in-law,
Ron Simon, St. Donatus, IA;

18 grandchildren;

29 great-grandchildren;

4 great great-grandchildren;

a brother-in-law,
Virgil Hammerand, Sherrill, IA;

and a sister-in-law,
Nancy Roth, Sunshine, AZ.

Neat was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert Erickson; her daughter, Kim Simon; her daughter-in-law, Beth “Buttons” Erickson; her 11 siblings, Marie (Kelly) Evan, Evelyn (Elmer) Lucas, Selina (Dale) Waters, Leo Schmitt, Lavern (Lil) Schmitt, Jerome (Jo) Schmitt, Geneva (Charles) Arlen, Verlyn (Blanche) Schmitt, Eldon (Joan) Schmitt, Doris Schmitt and Luella Hammerand; and her in-laws, Maxine (Herb) Honey and Marlene (Jack) Boland.

Neat’s family would like to thank the outstanding staff at Stonehill, especially Sophie (her favorite) and Alivia, and Hospice of Dubuque, especially Angela, for the kind, compassionate and professional care they provided for Neat.

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

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

Donald B. Puccio

Donald Bruce Puccio, 83, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on January 8, 2026, at UnityPoint – Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday.

Don was born on May 5, 1942, in Dubuque, Iowa, the son of Joseph A. and Ethel (Davis) Puccio. He married Rosemarie Knuppe July 27, 1963. He worked at the Dubuque Packing House for 36 years. Don enjoyed playing softball, his bowling league, stock car racing and visiting the casino.

He is survived by his four children, Deano Joseph Puccio of Marshalltown, IA., Donald Allen Puccio of Dubuque, IA., David John Puccio of Dubuque, IA., and Barbie Jo (Jacob Kutsch) Puccio of Dubuque, IA.; grandchildren, April (Andy Kron) of Algona, IA., Ashley Kaufman of Des Moines, IA., Tricia Peek of Nashville, TN., and Kyle Lee Smith of Dubuque, IA.; nine great grandchildren; his brother Rodney (Cindy) Carr of Dubuque, IA,; along with many nieces and nephews.

Don is preceded in death by his ex-wife and friend Rosemarie, his parents, mother and father-in-law Floyd and Dorothy Knuppe, a grandson Derrik Haverland; brothers, Joe Puccio, John Puccio, Ronald Puccio, Tommy Puccio, Sam Puccio, Billy Puccio, and Allen Carr, sisters, Shirley Wigman, and Barbara Clendenen.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund has been established.

The family would like to thank the Finley ICU staff for all their care and compassion towards Don and his family.

Mary L. Urbain

Mary L. Urbain, 64 of Farley, Iowa, passed away on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at her home in Farley, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Visitation for Mary will be held from 4 to 8 pm., Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Farley, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.. Visitation will also continue after 9 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at the funeral Home.

Services for Mary will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Farley, Iowa, with Rev. Steven Garner presiding.

Mary was born January 7, 1962 in Prairie Du Chein, Wisconsin.  She is a 1980 graduate of Western Dubuque High School.  On May 23, 1981 she was united in marriage to Bernie Urbain in Dyersville, Iowa.  She was employed at State Farm Insurance and later at Three River FS.

She liked to sing along to the Judds while they all did their Saturday chores.  She loved campfires with her friends and family and a good beer, a margarita or maybe a Sneaky Pete…or save the Sneaky Pete’s for a nice float down the Maquoketa River.  She loved being surrounded by those she loved, it always made for a good time!

She was a crafter, she painted ceramics, and crcocheted  blankets  just to mention few of her favorite hobbies.

She hated storms, spiders and it was always fun to get a good scare out of her.  She was always up for shannanigans.

She is survived by her husband, Bernie Urbain of Farley; five children, Bridgett (Michael) Bradley of Farley, Emily (Luke) Pisarik of Cascade, Laura (Garrett) Carlson of Fairfax, Megan (Brandon) Meier of Bellevue, and Jared Urbain of Farley; 11 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren; her parents, James and Evelyn McGuire of Guttenberg; three siblings, Shelly Mescher of Farley, Teri (Tom) Schmuecker of Manchester and Dave (Angela) McGuire of Eldridge; her brothers and sisters-in-law, Sue Beringer of Dyersville, Bob (Jean) Urbain of Farley, Judy M. Koppes of Monmouth, Julie Urbain of Farley, Nancy Kramer of Worthington, Jeff (Sandy) Urbain of Peosta, Wanda (Dave) Roberts of Omaha, NE, and Sarah (Tim) Ells of Davenport and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by a son, David Urbain in infancy; a granddaughter, Layna Meier; four brothers-in-laws, Gilbert Beringer, Mark Urbain, John Kramer and Dave Koppes; and her parents-in-law, Earl and Gertrude Urbain.

An online video may be viewed and online condolences may be left for the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

The family would like to thank the Farley EMS, St. Croix Hospice, and the Unity Point Finley Hospital ICU staff.

James R. Badger

James R. Badger, 84, of Dubuque, died Friday, January 9, 2026.

Visitation will be from 9:00 am Monday, January 12, 2026 at Church of the Resurrection until 10:45 am.

The Mass of Christian Burial for James will be 11:00 am Monday, January 12, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection with Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. Full military honors will be rendered by the American Legion Post #6.

James was born October 24, 1941, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Clarence and Gladys Ernst Badger. On April 12, 1969, he married Kathryn  A. Frey at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. She passed away on September 12, 2021.

He was a U.S. Navy Veteran, actively serving during the Vietnam War. He continued on with the U.S. Navy Reserves until his retirement.

Jim was a letter carrier for the  U.S. Postal Service from which he retired in 1996. Following his retirement, he worked for Dubuque Bank and Trust and most recently as a Sam’s Club sample man.

He was a member of Church of the Resurrection, the American Legion and was active with Boy Scouts of America for 25 years, serving in many positions. He was proud of his role as Santa and making connections with many generations of families. He had a heart for service and volunteered in many ways, including serving food at St. Patrick’s, calling Bingo, and playing Chief Menawa at Camp Albrecht Acres. He enjoyed being on the river. In his younger years, he was very active with the Dubuque Water Ski Club, and later in life he enjoyed the peacefulness of his boat.

Survivors include one daughter, Christina (Daniel) Hutchinson of Gretna, NE; one son, Anthony (Tammy) Badger of Brandon, SD; seven grandchildren, Emily Hutchinson, Robert Hutchinson, Charles Hutchinson, Lizzy Hutchinson, Tashlynne Badger, Tayven Badger, and Teya Badger; and one brother, William (Kathleen) Badger of Milwaukee, WI.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents.

A memorial has been established for the Dubuque Arboretum.

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 Jim’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Geoffrey S. Yager

Geoffrey S. “Geoff” Yager, age 66, of Dubuque, IA, completed his earthly journey suddenly on January 2, 2026.  To honor Geoff’s life, a private family service will be held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Geoff’s family.

Geoff was born on September 1, 1959, in Dubuque, IA, a son to Ivan and Eileen (Holtzman) Yager.  He grew up in a God fearing and Christ loving home where the faithful and unceasing prayers of Geoff’s parents continually covered him throughout every trial this broken world placed in his path.  Geoff was intrinsically good with his hands and could fix anything it seemed.  He was known to completely dismantle a radio, or other device, and have the ability to put it all back together just like new when he was finished.  He enjoyed listening to the radio in the background and never passed up a trip to Sunshine for a little food and fellowship with family and friends.  Geoff also possessed a witty sense of humor when the time was appropriate and found great joy in teasing others just to the point where they would smile.  We are going to miss Geoff moving forward, but are also grateful that he is finally free of his earthly health battles now and can find the peace which was so distant from him in this life.  We will love and miss you dearly until we all meet again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Geoff include,

his three sisters,
Phyllis (Burt) Rexin, Glastonbury, CT,
Karen Yager, Dubuque, IA,
and Sandi (Nick) Helgerson, Zwingle, IA;

his nieces and nephews,

Tiffany (Fred Hogan) Davis, David Boelk, Destiny Blum, Timothy Rexin, Tabitha Hickson, Hannah Kalantari and Isaac Rexin;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Geoff was preceded in death by his parents.

Geoff’s family would like to express a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Judy for all of her care, love and support of Geoff over the past couple of years.  Your time, patience and understanding have been greatly appreciated and thank you very much for all you’ve done for Geoff.

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

Roger A. Higgins

Roger A. Higgins, age 79, of East Dubuque, IL, completed his earthly journey on January 5, 2026, at Ennoble Manor in Dubuque while surrounded by his loving family.   To honor Roger’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at R Place, 292 Sinsinawa Avenue in East Dubuque.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Roger’s family.

Roger was born on January 1, 1947, in Marseilles, IL, the youngest son to Walter and Lona (Perdue) Higgins. He was born with a charming character and unending adoration for his family and friends which he carried proudly throughout his entire life. Roger was a patriot at heart and on his 18th birthday, he immediately signed up with the U.S. Navy and went on to honorably serve his country during the Vietnam War. He spent the majority of his working years at the Chemical Plant in East Dubuque, IL. He made many friends along the way and always gave his best at every job and opportunity he was given.

In his free-time, Roger was a fisherman at heart. He was known to make regular trips up to Lake Erie in search of the largest walleye the lake held, and also countless trips down to the southern lakes in Iowa filling his cooler with as many panfish as he could catch. Roger always understood that even a bad day fishing was always better than his best day at work. He was also willing to make it a priority to share time with his friends whenever possible and catch up on the local gossip while solving the world’s problems one at a time. Roger’s fun and loving nature was always evident to those around him and making friends easily was surely a trait he possessed in aces. We are going to miss Roger more than he could know and are forever grateful for the memories he leaves behind now.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Roger include,

his loving wife of 25 years,
Lisa Higgins, East Dubuque, IL;

his children,
Roger Higgins, Dubuque, IA,
Bonnie (Tim) Sampson, Cuba City, WI,
John Plagman, Dubuque, IA,
Rebecca Plagman, Dubuque, IA,
Tina (Rick) Ishman, Dubuque, IA,
Dawn (Mike) Schafer, MO,
Jessica Oberbroeckling, Dubuque, IA,
and Sarah (Chris VanLaten) Oberbroeckling, Lake in the Hills, IL;

his grandchildren,
Tiffany Plagman, Mariah Ishman, Stephen Henkel, Samantha Schafer, Logan Higgins, Michael Dean, Zackary Ishman, R.J. Higgins, Alex Plagman, Julian Van Laten, and Hugo Van Laten;

his siblings,
Anna Swartz, Marseilles, IL,
and Daniel Higgins, Sebastian, FL;

along with numerous extended family, friends and neighbors.

Roger was preceded in death by his parents; and his siblings, Esther Huss, Pearl Burns, Thelma Glenn, Velma Eiben, Phil Higgins and Mid Craven.

Roger’s family would like to thank the nurses and staff at Ennoble Manor and Care Initiatives Hospice for all of their professional and compassionate care.

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

Gerald J. Hayden

Gerald J. “Jerry” Hayden, age 91, of Platteville, WI, completed his earthly journey on January 7, 2026, at Sienna Crest Assisted Living in Platteville.  To honor Jerry’s life, a private family service is being held.  The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Jerry’s family.

Jerry was born on October 25, 1934, in Platteville, WI, a son to Guerdon and Maybel (Langkamp) Hayden.  He was gifted with a people friendly personality and the natural ability to fix anything you placed in front of him.  He met the love of his life, Joyce McPherson, when they were young.  It was a love that was truly destined from above and they were eventually united in marriage years later.  They were inseparable as the decades passed and life revealed its plan for them until Joyce was sadly called home ahead of him a few years ago.  Jerry’s heart would never mend this deep wound and there is truly peace to be found today as their time apart has ceased and their eternal life together now begins.

Jerry was a proud member of the Wisconsin National Guard in his younger years and went on to spend the majority of his working career as a truck driver for H&W Motor Express for over 30 years.  He put on countless miles before finally retiring in 1993.  Being the type of guy who could make friends anywhere he stood, Jerry always had a good conversation waiting for him as he reached each destination the days travels brought.

Jerry was also instinctively mechanically inclined and never met a project or repair that he couldn’t conquer.  Do it yourself was definitely the mode of operation he spent his life in and endless projects, upgrades, repairs and improvements around the house were faced head-on and no need to call in help when Jerry was in charge.  He was generous with his skills as well and many folks benefited from his time and talents over the years.  We are going to miss Jerry moving forward, but are forever grateful for the time the Lord was kind enough to share him with us.  May peace be yours now Jerry as your earthly health battles are nothing more than a faint memory and the beautiful smile of your Joyce is standing directly in front of you once again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Jerry include,

his loving daughter,
Jill (Jon Quilici) Hayden, Cuba City, WI;

along with extended family, friends and neighbors.

Jerry was preceded in death by his beautiful bride of 65 years, Joyce Hayden; his sister, Joyce Heins; and his sister-in-law, Betty (Ken) O’Connor.

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

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

Phyllis A. Emmons

Phyllis A. Emmons, 87, of Monticello, Iowa and formerly of Chicago, IL, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, surrounded by her family.

Per her request there will be no public services at this time.  A celebration of Life will be held at a later date in Chicago, Illinois.  The Reiff Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Phyllis was born October 24, 1938 in Chicago, Il, daughter of Harold and Gladys Berninger.  On March 22, 1958 she was united in marriage to Gerald Emmons in Chicago.  He preceded her in death in 2010.

She was the sweetest and funniest mother and grandmother.  She was always taking care of others, which is why everyone who knew her loved her.  She enjoyed crossword puzzles and her coffee.

She was an Avid fan of the Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears, she had hoped to see the Cubs win another World Series.

Those left to cherish her memory are her four children, Kenneth (Ruth) Emmons of Aurora, IL, Michael (Sue) Emmons of Monticello, IA, Carolyn (Ken) Williams of Lake in the Hills, IL and Patti (Brian) Felton of Monticello, IA; her grandchildren, Kimberly Ness, Robert (Eileen) Tretina, Patrick (Sydney) Tretina, Melani (Matthew) Flanagan, Kelli (Donnie) Ross, Corie (Adam Benavidez, Alexis Egan, Tanner (Alyssa) Felton, Tyler Felton, Gianna Felton, Trevor (Emily) Williams and Melissa (Robert Williams; 17 great grandchildren; two siblings, Harvey Berninger of Huntly, IL, and Patti Kieffer of Westmont, IL.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; and three siblings, Shirley, Harold and Vivian.

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

Pattie J. Gallwas

Pattie Jean Gallwas (also known as Mom, Pattie-Cake, Nana, and Grandma to her grandchildren), a woman of boundless curiosity and unwavering spirit, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2025, at the age of 89 in Galena, IL. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

She was born on October 24, 1936, to Dr. Douglas Moore and Ruth Lillian (Godwin) Bush. John and Pattie were married in 1961.

Pattie leaves behind her cherished husband, John Gallwas, along with her children: six sons, Douglas William, Martin Andrew, John Fredrick Jr., William Bush, Walter James, and Franklin Terry Gallwas; two daughters, Mary Lillian Lombardi and Isa Jane Magsamen; and seventeen grandchildren. Her life raising eight children had many twists and turns, but Pattie always found a way to keep it adventurous and challenging.

When the family moved from Moraga, CA, to Darien, CT, John and Pattie turned it into a family road trip! They moved from Connecticut to Spokane, WA, and finally to Illinois. Pattie had a gift for connecting with those she met along the way. If you met Pattie, you are sure to have a delightful story to tell. Her passions were as varied as they were vibrant. Pattie had a deep affection for people, a special fondness for big dogs, enjoyed acting in Community Theater, and delighted in dramatic movies and romantic comedies. Her involvement in the theater highlighted her creative and expressive nature. She was a skilled bridge player, earning the prestigious title of Life Master, an accomplishment she was very proud of. Pattie enjoyed exploring museums, was an avid reader, and was always eager to learn and challenge herself. She always reached for the top and was always on top of the latest fashion!

Pattie and John retired to Apple Canyon just outside of Galena. She cherished the peaceful countryside and her home perched on a charming lake. She especially loved her time with her husband, surrounded by family, at the annual Summer Gallwas family reunions, which were filled with music, bonfires, dancing, and fireworks. Later in life, Pattie found profound meaning in her conversion to Catholicism.

She dedicated her time and compassion to volunteering at her local church and a local nursing home, offering comfort and companionship to those who were lonely or frail. Pattie was known for her intelligence and her feisty, stubborn, yet caring and compassionate nature. While Pattie endured numerous challenges caused by dementia during her later years, she is now at peace and free from the burden of this debilitating condition. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her!

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

Katherine S. Clancy

Katherine S. Clancy, 67, of Epworth, Iowa passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and  family on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at MercyOne in Dubuque, Iowa.

A Celebration of Life and Private Burial in Highview cemetery for Katherine will be held at a later date.

She was born February 7, 1958, in Dubuque, Iowa, daughter of Linus and Helen (Werner) Luensmann.  She is a 1976 graduate of Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa.  On June 28, 1980, she was united in marriage to Michael Clancy at St. Clement’s Catholic Church in Bankston, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on March 22, 2019.

She was employed at Ertl Company in Dyersville, Demmer Oil in Worthington, Iowa.

She was an avid reader and she loved to collect clocks and solar lights, she had too many to count.

She is survived by her three children, Sean Clancy (Angie Vanderplas) of Cedar Rapids, IA, Brittany Clancy and Ryan Clancy of Epworth, IA; her mother-in-law, Amke Clancy of Epworth; three brothers, Richard (Cindy) Luensmann of Dubuque, IA, Michael Luensmann of Epworth, IA and Ken (Deb) Luensmann of Holy Cross, IA; one sister-in-law, Angela (Bill) Theisen of Epworth, IA; many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her father-in-law, Eugene Clancy; and a sister-in-law, Monica Urbain.

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

The family would like to thank the staff of Mercy One Medical Center for all the kindness and care given to mom.

Mark Willging

Mark Willging, 72, of Dubuque, died suddenly on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at his home in Dubuque.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm at Thunder Hills Country Club in Peosta, IA. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque at a later date.

Mark was born January 13, 1953, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Arthur J. and Mary M. (Schubert) Willging.

Mark graduated from Wahlert Catholic High School in 1971. He then attended Loras College, graduating in 1975, and later received his J.D. from the University of Iowa College of Law in 1978.

Mark was an attorney practicing for most of his career at Fuerste, Carew, Juergens & Sudmeier, P.C. until his retirement on December 31, 2025.

He was an avid golfer and a member of Thunder Hills Country Club. He was also a member of the Dubuque County Bar Association. He enjoyed going out to dinner with friends but above all, his time was spent with family whom he was greatly devoted to in so many ways.

Survivors include four siblings, James (Georgia) Willging of Asbury, Joyce Tignino of Wheaton, IL, Michele (Bill) Welter of Iowa City, IA, and Greg (Laura) Willging of Dubuque. He was a favorite uncle to Jeff, Dan, and David (Jody) Willging, Emily (Richard) Chandler, Gabe (Gina) Tignino, Ben (Maria)Welter, Ellen (Craig) Welter, Julia (Jonathan) Welter, Alex (Kaylah) Vaassen, Abby Willging, Andy Willging and 15 great-nieces and nephews.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to The Fountain of Youth Program.

We’re all beyond grief and have no way to honor the brother and uncle who was at the center of our family and who we loved so much. He was the best!

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

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mark’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

David R. Manternach

David Richard Manternach, 63, of Dubuque, died Monday, January 5, 2026, at his home.

The Funeral Service for Dave will be 10:00 am Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Crematory with Deacon Mike Ellis officiating.

David was born December 8, 1962, in Dubuque, IA, the son of Richard and Catherine DeMaio Manternach.

He was a 1981 graduate of Hempstead High School, and in 1985, he received a BA in Art at Coe College in Cedar Rapids.

He worked in sales for phone book advertising.

Dave grew up attending Church of the Resurrection. He was a proud member of the TKE Fraternity at Coe College and played football on defense in both high school and college. David loved watching sports, was a devoted Miami Dolphins fan, and especially enjoyed spending time fishing.

Survivors include one daughter, Taylor Manternach of Henderson, NV; one sister, Amy (Manternach) Green and her husband, Scott, of Odessa, FL; one nephew, Ethan Green; and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established for Boys Town.

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

Laura J. Kruse

Laura J. “Jean” Kruse, 84, of Dubuque, IA, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, at Stonehill Heath Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. A funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. with Deacon David Roth officiating.

Jean was born June 14, 1941, in Balltown, Iowa, the daughter of Leon and Claretta (Brimeyer) Breitbach. She attended St. Joseph Academy High School and graduated from Wahlert High School.

She married Donald E. Kruse on September 28, 1963, at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, in Dubuque. Jean worked as a cook at Ennoble Manor and Loras College, and retired from housekeeping at University of Dubuque.

When Jean’s kids were younger, she was known for her sewing skills and created their Halloween costumes. Her hobbies also included embroidery and crochet. Her homemade apple pies were always a favorite treat. She took many summer trips with Don and the kids to Backbone State Park and amusement parks, as well as family vacations visiting many locations across the country. Don and Jean were avid golfers and shared their love of the sport with their family. Together, they enjoyed traveling, playing cards, going out to eat, and visiting local casinos. Jean also took care of Don after his stroke until his passing in 2021.

Jean is survived by her children, Diane (Steve) Hefel of Peosta, IA, Kevin (Betsy) Kruse of Washington Crossing, PA, Brian (Melanie) Kruse of Wilton, IA, and Todd (Robert O’Hara) Kruse of Oak Park. IL; grandchildren: Kristal Kruse, Linsey Petrousek, Abbie Hefel, Caroline Titus, Alison Kruse, Julianne Kruse, and Aaron Kruse; great grandchildren: Caleb and Alice Rumple, Rosemarie and Violet Petrousek and Walter Titus; siblings: Betty Frommelt, Paul (Fran) Breitbach, Gerald (Gayle) Breitbach, Larry Breitbach, and Clare (Hugh) Gaston; siblings-in-law Donna Breitbach, and Gary (Ann) Kruse, along with many nieces and nephews.

Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband Don; children Susan Kruse and William Kruse; her parents; parents-in-law Ed and Lenore Kruse; siblings: Mary (James) Pink, Velma (Earl) Brahm, Shirley (Don) Hansen, Carol (John) O’Brien, Anna (James) Kemp, Peter Breitbach, Joseph Breitbach, Charles Breitbach and Phillip Breitbach; and brothers-in-law Paul Frommelt and Edward (Sherry) Kruse.

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

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the healthcare professionals, especially Dr. Eric Engelman, Eagle Pointe Place, Stonehill and Hospice of Dubuque for their wonderful care and compassion.