Obituaries Archive

Sr. Lene Rubly

Sister Lene (Helen) Rubly, 90, of Dubuque, passed away March 23, 2026.

Visitation in the presence of the cremated remains will be at Clare House Chapel, Mount St. Francis Center from 10:00-11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026 followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 1:00 p.m. Burial of the cremated cremains will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery. Guests unable to attend may participate via livestream at: www.youtube.com/dubuquefranciscans

Lene was born on May 20, 1935 in Petersburg, IA to Raymond and Amanda  (Bruggeman) Rubly.

Lene entered the Sisters of St. Francis August 25, 1953 and made final profession of vows August 12, 1959. Sister received her master’s degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University, Chicago, IL. She ministered in Iowa at Alta Vista, North Washington, St. Mary, Cascade, Manchester, Stacyville, Meyer, McIntire, La Porte City, Eagle Center, and Blessing, and at Holy Ghost and Hills and Dales in Dubuque. She also served in Cleveland and Hiawassee, GA, and Franklin and Scottsville, KY.

Sister is survived by her sister, Sr. Ann Rubly, OSF, and brother, Jack (Mary Ann) Rubly, nieces, nephews, and her Franciscan sisters.

Sister was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Rose Ann (Harley) Willenborg and Deb Young.

The Sisters of St. Francis express their thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and the Mount St. Francis Center staff for their care and concern.

Memorials may be given to the Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA.

Egelhof, Siegert, and Casper Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Carol J. McFadden

Carol Jean (Marty) McFadden, 76, of Dubuque, IA, passed away surrounded by family on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque.

A visitation will be held Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Leonard Funeral Home, 2595 Rockdale Road, Dubuque. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m.

Carol was born March 20, 1949, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Milton and Muriel (Lange) Marty. She married Richard “Dick” McFadden on September 26, 1970, he preceded her in death on July 14, 2012.

She was a lifelong nurse, from working at Xavier Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Medical Associates Acute Care, Surgery Department, and Patient Services. She truly lived a life of compassion and empathy towards others. Family was always the most important thing to Carol. She traveled the country to support her children and grandchildren, making so many memories and friends along the way.

Carol is survived by her children: Jeff (Anneke Gustafson) McFadden of Clive, IA, Jennifer (Eddie Argall) McFadden of Dubuque, IA, Michael (Ana Lemus) McFadden of Carlsbad, CA, and Matthew (Katie) McFadden of Dubuque, IA; grandchildren: Victoria, Eden, Liam, Camila, Alexandra, Nora, Kalen and Grayson; siblings: Tom (Cathy) Marty, Cathy (Bob) Keighley, and Connie Marty; along with several brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents, and parents-in-law Walter and Lilian McFadden, a baby girl due to miscarriage, along with several brothers and sisters-in-law.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund in Carol’s name has been established.

The family would like to extend a very heartfelt thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, especially Kelli, the nurses and staff at Stonehill Health Center, and Dr. Angela Kelley and her care team, for their care and compassion given to Carol and her family.

Carol always wanted her obituary to be short and sweet. If you knew Carol, she has probably already told you ALL of her stories.

Karen L. Rodasta

Karen “Sarge” L. Rodasta, 77, of Dubuque, IA, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

A visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 5:00 p.m. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date.

Karen was born on April 2, 1948, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Kelsey and Marigold (Robey) Patters. She graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1966. She married Joseph Rodasta on June 11, 1966, at St. Raphael’s Cathedral in Dubuque.

She retired as a Cook from Finley Hospital in Dubuque and was a long-time member of the TOPS club.

Karen loved to travel, whether it was camping, fishing in Minnesota, or just seeing where the next adventure would take her. There were so many road trips and vacations with friends and family that resulted in memories that will last forever.

She is survived by her loving husband Joseph; daughters: Zandra (Ed) Schamper, Angie (Shannon) Leppert, and Tammy (Baron) Hoskins; grandchildren: Tiffany (Reginald), Ashley (Nicholas), Ryan (Caitlin), Aaliyah (Allen), and Sam; six great-grandchildren; siblings: Ken (Judi) Patters, Keith (Peggy) Patters, Kathy (Ron) Gorman, and Kirt Patters; special friends: Janet, Dave, Sheila, and Blair; along with many nieces, nephews and friends.

Karen is preceded in death by her parents, her parents-in-law, Jack and Irene Rodasta, and nephew Zac.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund in Karen’s name has been established.

Mary Surrell-Richards

Mary Surrell–Richards “Vacha,” 85, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026, in Dubuque.

Mary was born on October 9, 1940, in Arthur, Wisconsin, to Ed and Anita (Cushman) Vacha. She lived a life devoted to her family and will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the love she shared with everyone around her.

She is survived by her loving children: Ruth (Alan) Andrews, Bill (Kim) Pluemer, Mary (Robb) Willis, Jo Ann Tigges, and Richard Surrell. She is also survived by her siblings: Walter Pluemer; Marlene (Ron) Hoeper; Melvin (Terry) Vacha; Merle (Pat) Vacha; Denise (Scott McCabe) Vacha; Tony (Karen) Vacha; Pat (Randy) Alexander; and Joe (Tammy) Vacha. Mary was a proud and devoted grandmother to six grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Anita Vacha; her sister, Millie; her brother, Mike; her son, Louis Surrell II; and her husbands, Louis Surrell and Harold Richards.

A private service for family will be held on March 27, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:00 am at Miller’s Funeral Home in East Dubuque, Illinois, with burial to follow at the Primitive Methodist Cemetery at Benton, WI.

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

Mary will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

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

Aloysius C. Maiers

Aloysius (Butch) C. Maiers, 90, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully at Stonehill Health Center, surrounded by his family Saturday, March 21, 2026.

Visitation for Butch will be from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church, 2215 Windsor Avenue where a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, with Father Raymond Burkle officiating. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded.

Butch was born September 24, 1935, in Holy Cross, the son of Gilbert and Henrietta (Lake) Maiers. He received his education at Leo High School in Holy Cross and the Cedar Rapids Barber College. Butch proudly served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. On August 22, 1959, he was united in marriage to Patricia (Pat) A. Beecher at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque and the couple lived in Dubuque throughout their cherished 66 years of marriage.

He began a barbering career that would span 56 years of service to Dubuque and the surrounding communities, a career built on flat tops followed by the hair style trends over more than five decades. He was proud of Maiers Barber Shop on Central Avenue and grateful for the many lifelong friends he gained over the years and the camaraderie with other local barbers. He served multiple terms in the Iowa State Association of Barbering, including the role of vice president. He retired in June 2016 at the age of 80 and joked “it was the last page in my appointment book.”

His pride and joy was his family, and he treasured the many gatherings with them. He and Pat enjoyed a vibrant social life, rotating local supper clubs on Saturday evenings which generally included an Old-Fashioned.  He also enjoyed traveling, especially the trips with Pat to Mexico and the vacations with family that ranged from camping in the earlier years to more exotic destinations later. He was an avid league bowler for many years and traded his bowling ball in for golf clubs when the weather turned warm, cherishing the relationships he made on the lanes and the greens.

His Catholic faith was very important to him, and he was a long-time member of Sacred Heart Church, Holy Spirit Pastorate. He served as vice president of the Holy Name Society, on the parish finance committee, and as an usher for many years.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Patricia (Pat) and his children, Kelly Markham of Dubuque, Kathy (Barney) Foley of Cedar Rapids, Laurie (Mark) Clemens of Dubuque, Lynn (Tom) Turner of Dubuque, and Sean (Lance) Maiers of Minneapolis; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Walter Driggers of Las Vegas; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; five siblings, Leon (Harriet) Maiers, Edwin (Laura) Maiers, Eileen (Gerald) Kluesner, Wilmer (Norma) Maiers, Cletus (Shirley) Maiers; his father- and mother-in-law, Joseph and Vivian (Meloy) Beecher; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Virginia Beecher, Jack (Flora Lue) Beecher, Janann Driggers, Rich Beecher, Bob (Betty) Beecher, Dave (Barb) Beecher and Joey Beecher.

Our family would like to extend a deep appreciation for the compassion and care provided to Butch by Hospice of Dubuque and Stonehill Health Center; individual caregivers are too many to name. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorials to Hospice of Dubuque to honor Butch’s life.

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

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

Jerry L. Williams

Jerry Lee Williams, 78, of Cascade, IA and formerly of Iowa City, IA, passed away on March 22, 2026 at Accura Healthcare in Cascade, surrounded by family.

Friends and relatives may call from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at on Monday, March 30, 2026 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where a prayer service will be held with Deacon Joe Schockemoehl presiding.  Burial will follow in the Cascade Community Cemetery in Cascade.

Jerry was born on October 19, 1947 in Nora, Nebraska, son of Elmer and Gwendolyn (Montgomery) Williams.  On August 22, 1970, he was united in marriage to Marcelle Christensen at Ruskin Lutheran Church in Ruskin, Nebraska. Jerry graduated from Nelson High school and the University of Nebraska at Kearney and had a very successful career as a purchasing agent for the University of Nebraska and later the University of Iowa until his retirement.

Jerry was very devoted to his wife and family and lived for the great outdoors. He enjoyed collecting firearms and hunting, having had the opportunity to successfully hunt buffalo, elk, and bear among other animals, and he competed in several shooting events and took great pride in his first place marksmanship awards. He also had a love for historical cowboy shoots, his cowboy boots, fishing, his baby blue 1967 Mustang, gardening, and a good meal.

He is survived by two children; Sonya (Rustin) Miller of Kalona, IA and Blake (Becky) Williams of Dyersville, IA; nine grandchildren, Dallas and Dalton Miller and Isaac, Owen, Evelyn, Anna, Abram, Elias, and Ivan Williams; his forever little sister, Linda (John) Combs of Superior, Nebraska; one brother, Bob (Margo) Williams of Nora, Nebraska; one sister-in-law, Alana (Ken) Stirn of Shawnee, Kansas; and one brother-in-law, Ric (Gail) Garcia of Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marcelle, on Dec. 3, 2003, his parents, and his father and mother-in-law, Jerome and Angela (Cabrera) Christensen.

The family would like to thank the staff at River Bend Retirement Community for loving him so well for almost a decade, even though he liked to break the rules every now and again; the staff at Accura Healthcare for their attentive care in his final few months, and Deacon Joe Schockemoehl for taking the time to pray with him.

Doris J. Huber

Doris Jane Huber, 91, of Dubuque died Thursday March 19, 2026, at Harmony of Dubuque. According to her wishes there will be no services. Tri-State Cremation Center is serving Doris’ family.

Doris was born October 20, 1934, to Bart and Hilda (Johnson) Guler in Peru Township, rural Dubuque County. She married Richard Huber on September 22, 1956, enjoying 62 years together before Rich’s passing in 2019. They had one deeply loved son, Ricky, who sadly passed away in 1999.

Doris was a life long homemaker. She enjoyed bowling with Rich and league bowling as well. Summers were spent on the river boating in a number of different boats they owned and Doris enjoyed water skiing on the river. Hiking was a favorite of Doris as well, both locally and in Arizona, and she supported Rich’s love of stock car racing, as he built and raced his own car at the old Dubuque Speedway, spending many evenings attending those races with him.

Doris was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and keenly held to the hope of a resurrection on a beautiful paradise on earth as promised in the Bible. She now sleeps in peace awaiting that promised resurrection to a world filled with peace, perfect health and a life of eternal happiness.

Doris is survived by a sister-in-law, Ruth Guler, and many nieces and nephews and their families.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bart and Hilda, her husband Richard, and son, Ricky. Also, her siblings, Bernice Beresford, Lucille Kachevas, Janette Freisinger, and Clarence Guler, and brother-in-law’s, Donald Beresford, Peter Kachevas, and Wayne Freisinger.

Memorials may be given to Care Initiatives Hospice, Manchester, Ia or Harmony of Dubuque. The family would like to thank all the staff at Harmony of Dubuque for their kind and loving care of Doris over the past two years and give a special thanks to Trisha and Angie of Care Initiatives Hospice for their wonderful care of Doris during her final days.

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

Lana L. Pfab

Lana Lee (Hines) Pfab, 83, of Dubuque, passed away March 18, 2026, at UnityPoint Finley Hospital, surrounded by her loving children and grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 3:00-7:15 PM, Monday, March 23, 2026, at the Church of the Nativity, 1225 Alta Vista, Dubuque. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 7:30 PM.

Lana was born on September 8, 1942, in Dubuque, to Cecil and Ila (Wolbers) Hines. She attended Dubuque Senior High School, graduating with the class of 1961.

Lana was a long-time member of Nativity Parish, where she and Joe Pfab, her beloved husband of 63 years, were united in marriage on May 5, 1962. He preceded her in death on October 1, 2025.

In her younger years she worked as a legal secretary at the Kintzinger Law Firm, before leaving to raise her children. In her later years, she worked in the infant room at the Nativity Child Care Center, caring for many babies, including some of her own grandchildren.

Lana and Joe, through 63 years of marriage, set an unmatched example of love and devotion to one another. Together they raised their six children in a home filled with love and laughter, and in 2022 were honored on their 60th wedding anniversary at a celebration with family and friends.

Lana enjoyed card club, playing golf, bingo, and slot machines, and trips to Minnesota and Wisconsin to visit children and grandchildren. She also loved music and, especially, reading, with an ever-growing library of books on her shelves.

“Grandma Lana” was her favorite title. She simply adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and they treasured their trips to Grandma and Grandpa’s house, where Grandma would share her chocolates and spend countless hours reading stories and playing cards and board games (although she did not let them win!). She loved attending their programs, concerts, sporting events, and other activities, and could not have been prouder of their lives and accomplishments.

Lana’s baking skills were legendary. No holiday was complete without her pies, made from scratch, and “Cookie Day” was an annual Christmas tradition for all her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lana always made sure that everyone received a batch (or three) of their favorites, and delivered trays to family, friends, and neighbors throughout Dubuque.

Lana was truly the sweetest, kindest person in the world, and while we are heartbroken by her passing, we take solace in knowing that she and Joe, inseparable in life, are together again.

Lana is survived by her children, Julie (Bill) Hoffman of Dubuque, Russell (Brenda) Pfab of Peosta, Randall (Candy Lemerand) Pfab of Baldwin, WI, Richard (Billie) Pfab of Appleton, WI, Jennifer (Jen Thumser) Pfab of Dubuque, and Janis (Chad) Thomas of Dubuque.

She is also survived by 17 grandchildren, Jeffry (Raquel) Hoffman, Kelsey Hoffman, Benjamin (Court Schueller) Pfab, Samantha (Tyler) Hospodarsky, Courtney (Keegan) Gebke, McKenzie (Payton) Klinefelter, Brittanee (Nathan) Suliin, Chelsea (Adam Lafontaine) Pfab, Devon (Andrew) Fredrickson, Greg Pfab, Darrian Adler, Joshua Pfab, Zachary Pfab, Lana Pfab, Charlie Pfab-Thumser, Jack Thomas, and Sophia Thomas.

Lana is also survived by 10 great-grandchildren, Violet Hoffman, Baxter Hoffman, Ozzie Hoffman, Elsie Gebke, Kenzee Suliin, Jaxon Lafontaine, Landon Lafontaine, Mallorie Lafontaine, Arabella Fredrickson, and Harlow Fredrickson.

She is also survived by her brother, Dale (Sara) Hines, her sister-in-law, Susie (Jack) Onken, her brothers-in-law, James (Meredith) Pfab and William (Tammy) Pfab, and many nieces and nephews.

Lana is also survived by her lifelong friends Karen & Wayne Gardner, who are considered family by the Pfabs.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Donald (Betty) Hines, her sisters, Jeneene (Wayne) Hennings, Janaan (Richard) Kieffer, Phyllis (William) Hessel, and Denise Hines, her brother-in-law, Anthony Pfab, and her sisters-in-law, Sally Pfab, Elizabeth (Dave) Clasen, Hilma (Geoff) Galloway, and Ruth (Larry) Reiff.

Lana’s family wishes to extend a special thank you to all of the doctors, nurses, and staff in the ER and ICU at UnityPoint Finley Hospital for their care, kindness, and compassion.

Memorials may be given to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

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

Rebecca A. James

Rebecca Ann (Sanders) James, 50, of Preston, Iowa, passed away on March 15, 2026.

Visitation will be held from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will begin at 7:00 p.m., with Deacon John Stierman officiating.

Rebecca was born on January 19, 1976, in Dubuque, Iowa, the daughter of William and Nancy Jo (Kohnen) Sanders. She graduated from NIACC with a degree in accounting. On July 21, 2007, she was united in marriage to Joseph Tully; they later separated. Rebecca worked at Clausen Companies in Clinton, Iowa, and AIH in Dubuque. She was also a member of the Smiley Horseshoe League.

Becky was a fun-loving, adventurous spirit who delighted in road trips, lazy beach days, and browsing thrift stores. She was truly a joy to be around. Like her mother, she had a special gift for making others feel seen, valued, and loved, whether through a simple glance, a heartfelt compliment, or her infectious laugh. She had a way of bringing a smile to everyone she met.

Rebecca is survived by her children, Luke (Lindzy Swift) Sanders and triplets Kaitlyn, Kathryn, and Joseph Tully; her grandchildren, Abigail and River Sanders; her father, William Sanders; and her siblings, Jason (Jocelyn) Sanders, Jesse Sanders, Billie (Dan) Arrington, Emily (Jayson) Freiburger, Maggie (Josh Perry) Tischhauser, Curt (Leona Haraway) Sanders, and Ronald Sanders. She is further survived by her nieces and nephews: Andrew, Henry, Jacob, Alex, Madyson, Katalina, Jack, Karly, Ella, Mariah, Jameson, MaKenna, Alina, and Declan; many aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Nancy; her maternal and paternal grandparents; her brother-in-law, Tobey Tischhauser; and her niece, Marley Tischhauser.

Memorials may be sent to Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory in Rebecca’s name.

The family would like to thank the Jackson County First Responders, as well as their family, friends, and coworkers, for the outpouring of support.

Elmer C. Engling

Elmer C. Engling, 92, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away on March 20, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Wake Service will be held prior to the visitation at 3:45 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the Church of the Nativity, with Rev. Msgr. James Miller officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery. An additional visitation will be held at the church prior to Mass from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Elmer was born on November 29, 1934, in North Buena Vista, Iowa, the son of Michael and Veronica (Brimeyer) Engling. He married Marilyn Rapp on January 15, 1955. She preceded him in death on February 20, 2022.

Elmer worked in a variety of roles, including delivering beer for the Walnut Tap, working as a semi driver for General Leasing, and serving as a route driver for Holiday Sales. He enjoyed woodworking, horseshoes, fishing, camping, and bowling, as well as weekly visits with dear friends and spending time with his family.

He is survived by his five loving children: Laurie (Mike) Hancock, Ginny (Curt) Schumacher, Pat (Jacque) Engling, Tony (Dawn) Engling, and Mike (Virge) Engling. He is also survived by eleven grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and a sister-in-law, Jeanne (Jerry) Fudge.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Marie (Sylvester) Kluesner, Viola (William) Kaufman, Cecilia (Russ) Gantenbein, Agnes (Herman) Steines, Bernard Kluesner, and Dorothy (Larry) Lucas; and his in-laws, Eileen (Joye) Bellings, Earl (Myra) Rapp, Jr., Robert Rapp, Patricia (Harold) Kemler, John (Lillian) Rapp, and Jerry (Dixie) Rapp.

The family would like to thank Hospice of Dubuque, Hawkeye Care Center, and Dr. Sara Loetscher for the excellent care they provided to Elmer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of Dubuque in memory of Elmer.

Miriam I. White

Miriam Irene White, age 97, passed away on March 20th, 2026, just five days prior to her 98th birthday.

Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27th, 2026, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd with a wake service to be held at 3:45 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28th, at St. Joseph The Worker with Fr. Brian Dellaert officiating. Burial will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Miriam was born in Bound Brook, NJ on March 25, 1928, daughter of Annette (Fuss) Geiger and Michael A. Geiger. She graduated from St. Peter’s High School and Douglass College, Rutgers University, both in New Brunswick, NJ. Miriam received her M.A. in Music from The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and taught in public and private schools of New Jersey and Maryland prior to joining the music faculty of Clarke College, Dubuque in 1958.

She married Dr. James A. White on August 19, 1961, at St. Joseph Church, Bound Brook, NJ. After marriage she served as organist for choirs at St. Raphael’s Cathedral, the Basilica of St. Francis, Xavier, Dyersville, IA, St. Joseph the Worker Church and The Mound. A member of the Dubuque chapter, American Guild of Organists, Miriam played many recitals locally.

She is survived by sons Jim (Laura) White and John (Karin) White of Dallas, TX; daughter Molly White, Brooklyn, NY and daughter Jane (Michael Elliott) White of Los Angeles, CA; three grandchildren, Addison (Katie) White, Ian (Lexie) White, Drew White, and one great granddaughter, Olivia Louise White. She is also survived by her sister, Jane Geiger of Baltimore, MD and brother, Richard (Ann Marie) Geiger and many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her husband James White; daughter-in-law Laurie Leonard White; sisters Annette (Elia) Barbati and Loretta M. Geiger; brothers Michael Geiger, John (Ann) Geiger, and James (Katherine) Geiger.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Bethany Home, Loras College, Clarke College and Hospice of Dubuque.

Special thanks to Hospice of Dubuque and Bethany Home for taking great care of Miriam.

Donna M. Clements

Donna Mae Clements, 89, of Dubuque and formerly of Epworth, IA, passed away on March 19, 2026, at Hawkeye Care Center in Asbury, Iowa, surrounded by family. Donna died on March 19, the Feast of St. Joseph, and the tenth anniversary of Larry’s death. Praise God!

Friends and relatives of Donna may call from 3 to 7 p.m. on Monday, March 23, 2026 at the Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, Iowa, where a Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet will be prayed at 2:00 p.m. and a wake service will follow. There will be no public visitation at the funeral home on Tuesday.

Services for Donna will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 24, 2026 on Tuesday at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa, with the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet prayed starting 9:45 a.m. Rev. Sonny De Class, SVD will be the Presider. Homilist will be Rev. Jim Bergin, SVD.  Concelebrating will be Rev. Steven Garner, Rev. Benjamin Boro Nama, SVD, Rev. Jangill Maine, Rev. Matheus Ro, SVD.   Private burial will be held at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Epworth, Iowa.

Donna was born January 16, 1937 in La Crosse, Wisconsin, daughter of Arthur and Anne (Dischler) Servais.  She attended St. Joseph’s Ridge Catholic School and graduated from Aquinas High School in 1955.  On October 3, 1956 she was united in marriage, the love of her life, to Lawrence Clements at St. Joseph Ridge in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and married 59 years.  He died March 19, 2016.  Donna and Larry were devoted to the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph, and prayer during their lifetime.

She graduated from Area One College as an LPN, Peosta, Iowa, in 1972.  She worked for Medical Associates for twenty-five years.  She was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth and was a Eucharistic Minister there and to the sick. Both Donna and Larry were a sponsor couple for St. Patrick’s Catholic Church and involved in Marriage Encounter.  She and Larry also assisted many students at Divine Word College learning English, and many became Priests, and kept in contact with her before she died. She was also a member of the Altar and Rosary Society, a member of the Tri-State Garden Club and the Tri-State Hosta Club.  She enjoyed baking, cooking, crocheting, and spending time with her family.

She is survived by six children; twins, Maria (Jack) Smith of Epworth, IA and Monica (John) Daly of Dubuque, IA, Timothy Clements of Fairmont, MN, Theresa (Jeff) Chapman of Epworth, IA Patrick (Ardyce) Clements of Onalaska, WI and Andrew (Annette) Clements of North Liberty, IA; 23 grandchildren, 39 great-grandchildren; one brother, Paul (Clare) Servais of Greendale; WI, three sisters, Emma Brockman of Eau Claire, WI, Barbara Barrett, of Marshfield, WI, and Veronica (Charles ) Besch of Durham, NC, and two sisters-in-law, Barb Servais of La Crosse, WI, and Ellen Kratz of Colorado Springs, CO.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her father and mother-in-law, Arthur and Adeline Clements; one daughter-in-law, Julie Clements;  one great-grandchild, Findley Clements.one brother, Everett Servais, and four sisters-in-law, Maureen Servais, Arlene Kish; Marlyn Rybold, and Rita Clements; six brothers-in-law, Arthur (Archie) Clements, Steve Barrett, Myron Brockman, Bill Rybold, Marvin Kendhammer, and Shorty Kish.

Thank you to the staff at Hawkeye Care Center for the excellent care and love they gave Mom for the last four years. Gratitude to Hospice for all their love and care, especially Buffy, Angela, Pastor Will, Melissa, and Kris.

Memorials for Donna Mae Clements may be sent to St. Patrick’s Parish, EWTN, or Divine Word College in lieu of flowers.

A video tribute may be viewed and online condolences may be sent to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Mark A. Stecher

Mark Anthony Stecher, 55, of Dubuque, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Leonard Funeral Home and Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd, Dubuque, is assisting the family.

Mark came into the world a few weeks late on October 2, 1970, with the umbilical cord wrapped around his neck – just to make things interesting. The son of Joseph R. and Carol L. (Dougherty) Stecher. It was only the beginning for a man who would go on to develop a sharp wit and carry it with him throughout his 55 years.

As the youngest of six, Mark benefited from parents who had, by then softened considerably – giving their baby boy the freedom to explore and say things that might have earned an older sibling a smack. As he grew older that wit became one of his defining traits. Mark also had a generous spirit and a deep loyalty to the people he loved. He showed up when it mattered, often quietly, without needing recognition.

Mark had a lovable, teddy bear-like personality that his nieces and nephews found irresistible. The bond they shared began in childhood and remained strong throughout his life.

He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly and will miss him every day – his humor and his uncanny ability to get the last word in, even when no one realized there was still an argument going – a special note to his Euchre partners.

John R. McCarthy

John R. McCarthy, 98, of East Dubuque, Illinois, passed away peacefully at home on March 18, 2026, with his beloved wife by his side.

Family and friends may call from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 22, 2026 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the parish rosary will be recited at 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Mass of Christian Burial will be 10:30 a.m. Monday at St. Mary’s Church in East Dubuque, with Fr. Bosco Aruldoss officiating.  Burial will follow at Linwood Cemetery in Dubuque, IA, where military honors will be accorded by members of American Legion Post # 787 of East Dubuque.

He was born on February 25, 1928, the son of William John and Harriet Eleanor (Hird) McCarthy.

John grew up farming and went on to have a long and dedicated career in the delivery business. From mirrors to oil, soda to beer—he did it all. He took great pride in serving his customers and formed lasting relationships with many of them over the years.

In 1951, he met the love of his life, Marjorie “Marge” Patricia Theodore. Jack pursued her diligently and, after several rebuffs, Marge eventually succumbed to his charm. They dated for five years before marrying on June 9, 1956, and together built a life centered around their three children.

John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took immense pride in his family. They were the center of his life. He had a lifelong love of the outdoors and enjoyed gardening, caring for animals, and spending time in nature. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures and felt most at peace while morel hunting or fishing with his children. His grandchildren were, without a doubt, wonderfully spoiled—and proud of it.

He is survived by his cherished wife, Marge; his sister, Kathleen (Jim) Hollis of Reno, Nevada; his children, Michael (Pamela), Richard (Karen), and Cheryl (John) Pregler; his grandchildren, Mary (Clint), Johnny (Megan), and Audrey (Dalton); and his great-grandchildren, Zoiee, Taytem, Emily, and Lachlynn.

He was preceded in death by many loved ones (he was 98 after all!) who no doubt welcomed him home. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Dubuque, Dr. Kenneth Steffen, his wonderful nurse Kristin, and his caregivers, Ashleigh, Kim, and Madalyn, for their compassionate care.

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

Alan P. Rutenbeck

Alan Pangborn Rutenbeck, 98, of Baldwin, Iowa passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at the Maquoketa Care Center.  In keeping with Alan’s wishes, cremation rights will be accorded.

Alan was born on September 26, 1927 in Maquoketa, Iowa to Emil and Bernice (Pangborn) Rutenbeck.  He graduated from Maquoketa High School in 1945 and graduated from the University of Iowa in 1950.  He married Donna Mae Buck on June 9, 1950 in Iowa City.  They moved to Baldwin in 1951 where they raised their family of four children.

Alan co-owned and ran the B & R General Store in Baldwin from 1951 to 1965.  He worked at the Baldwin Savings Bank for 19 years.  He and Donna also operated the Rutenbeck Clerking Service for many years, working auctions throughout the Maquoketa area.  He enjoyed getting to know so many people through these various jobs.

Alan loved the outdoors and spent time fishing, hunting, trapping, gardening, mushroom hunting, traveling and wintering in Ft. Myers Beach, FL.  Alan’s other hobbies and pastimes included collecting, playing cards, buying and selling ginseng, and polka music.  He was an avid sports fan who rooted for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Maquoketa Cardinals, and Chicago Cubs.  Most importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.

Those left to honor his memory include his children: Jeanne (Rob) Christensen of Marshalltown, IA; Joan Etringer of Beloit, WI; Lynne (Bill) Edleman of St. Charles, MO; and Lee Rutenbeck of Maquoketa.  Also numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter.  Three nieces: Sue Broderson, Joy Eichhorn, and Jan Bahnsen.  He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, step-father Nic Jacobs, mother-in-law and father-in-law Esther and Albert Buck, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Betty and Bill Reed, and son-in-law Dave Etringer.

Carson Celebration of Life Center is caring for Alan.  A private family service will be held at a later date.  Memorials may be directed to Alan’s favorite charity, Hospice of Jackson County.

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