Obituaries Archive

Rita M. Wiegert

Dr. Ronald W. Schope

Dr. Ronald W. Schope, 79, of Dubuque, died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at his home in Dubuque.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Ronald will be at 11:00 am on Friday, October 24, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Steven Rosonke as the Celebrant.

Ronald was born in Chicago, IL on December 2, 1945, the second of three sons to Jean Coyne and Russell Schope. His early years were spent in Detroit, MI until his family moved to Marion, IA where he was a graduate of the 1st four year graduating class in the newly built Linn Mar High School. Ron played baseball and excelled as a varsity pitcher all four years. Throughout his youth his family would travel every summer; a family favorite was Estes Park, CO where he fell in love with the Rocky Mountains which then inspired him to go to the University of Colorado Boulder where he majored in Engineering, following in his fathers footsteps.

During his time at CU, he tried out for the CU Baseball team. After realizing in a hurry baseball for Ron was not going to be a career, he knew his focus should be on academics instead of baseball. He realized he wanted to be closer to family so he then transferred to Coe College to pursue a career in medicine. After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree, Ron was accepted into the University of Iowa Medical School where he received his Medical Degree in 1971. He continued his medical residency followed by a fellowship in Pulmonary Disease and received numerous honors including, Phi Beta Kappa Honors Degree and Phi Kappa Phi Cum Laude Honors Degree upon graduation in 1967, the John T. McClintock Award for academic achievement in physiology in 1969 and the Annals of Internal Medicine – published recognition by the American College of Physicians. Ron also belonged to Alpha Omega Alpha and Phi Rho Sigma (MU Chapter) Medical fraternity in 1968.

During his time in medical school, Ron met the love of his life, Charlotte Porazil. They were united in marriage on April 4, 1970 at St. Ludmila Catholic Church in Cedar Rapids, IA. They had 55 loving years together. While he was completing his schooling, he and Charlotte lived along the Iowa River in Coralville, IA. If Ron wasn’t boating you could find him on the deck reading his medical books while Charlotte fished. Their love of the water is what inspired them to move to Dubuque where Ron began his specialty in Pulmonary Medicine. He spent 44 years dedicated to all of his patients, showing compassion and empathy.

No matter how busy life became, Ron always made time for his family. When his two sons were young, he began coaching the Dubuque Hawks. His dedication to both his family and his work was well known, so much so that his team never batted an eye when he paused a game to take an important call from the hospital. Ron had a deep appreciation for nature, especially the beauty of the mountains and trees, and he took great pride in caring for his lawn with his riding mower.

Although he wasn’t able to make a career of it, baseball remained his favorite sport throughout his life. He later found joy in coaching his grandchildren in baseball, and watching them play hockey and soccer. Ron will be remembered for being a generous man with a kind heart, always eager to treat family and friends to lunch or dinner. He treasured the comfort of his home and was known for his compassion and empathy toward others.

Survivors include his loving wife, Charlotte of Dubuque; two sons, Andrew (Shawna) Schope of Littleton, CO and Adam Schope of Dubuque; five grandchildren, Jake, Dane, Lauren, Tate, Reid; one sister-in-law, Marcia (Bob) Solem of Phoenix; and several nieces and nephews.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers; and three sisters-in-law.

Memorials may be given to the Miracle League of Dubuque, 6076 Amber Ridge Road, Dubuque, IA 52001 or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all who cared for Dr. Schope.

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

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

Elizabeth J. Dunne

Elizabeth J. “Betty” Dunne, 97, of Zwingle, Iowa, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at home.

Elizabeth Jean Dunne was born on January 24, 1928 in Des Moines, Iowa, to John Henry and Katherine Mae (Russell) Hopson.  She grew up in Jackson County and attended country school.  She married Thomas Joseph Dunne on October 27, 1943 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Maquoketa.  Six children were born to this union: Carolyn, Robert, Loras, David, Patrick, and Edward.  “Joe” preceded her in death on November 1, 1989.  She later married Orlie Storlie on October 14, 1994 in Bellevue, Iowa.

Betty’s life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to her family.  As a dedicated farm wife, she worked alongside her husband, nurturing both their crops and children with equal care.

Betty’s life was rich with interests and passions that brought joy to her and those around her. She was a devout member of St. Lawrence Catholic Church at Otter Creek and a member of the St. Raphael #1156 Catholic Daughters of the Americas. Her love for raising chickens was evident in her extensive collection of chicken figurines and memorabilia. Betty’s competitive spirit shone through in her love of playing cards, and she was an avid supporter of the Indiana Fever. Above all, Betty’s greatest pleasure was found in the time she spent surrounded by her family, whose lives have been profoundly shaped by her love, wisdom, and grace.

Betty’s legacy is carried on by her children, Carolyn (Neil) Morehead of Maquoketa, IA, and Edward “Ed” (Janice) Dunne of Baldwin, IA; 13 grandchildren, Lisa Clark, Kim Callahan, Patrick Clark, Wendi Herrig, Brad Dunne, Kelli Courtney, Sean Dunne, Steve Dunne, Sarah Huemueller, Shane Dunne, Jodi Dunne, Michelle Wing, and Nicole Meek; 25 great-grandchildren, 22 great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Thomas, children Robert, Loras, David, and Patrick, grandchild Marshall Dunne, great-grandchildren Nolan Anderson, and Michael Dunne, and siblings, Emma, Katherine, Helen, George, Mary, Hazel, Richard, John, and Evelyn.

A funeral mass celebrating her life will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church at Otter Creek.  Visitation will be held prior to the mass on Tuesday from 10 A.M. to 11 A.M., at the church.  Burial will be at the St. Lawrence Church Cemetery.

The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.  Online condolences may be left at www.CarsonAndSon.com.

Albert Berns

Albert Berns, 65, of Luxemburg, Iowa passed away Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at University of Wisconsin Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin.

Visitation will be held from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Morris Funeral Home in Garnavillo, Iowa. Funeral service will follow at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home with burial to take place in Garnavillo City Cemetery, Garnavillo, Iowa.

Albert was born on October 16, 1959, in Dubuque, Iowa, son of Decellis and Lillian (Titlbach) Berns.

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish and spend his time out in nature. Most of his life, he spent his time being a truck driver until his retirement.

We would like to thank the staff at MercyOne in Dubuque and UW Health in Madison for their compassionate care during his last days.

Survivors include his sister, Debra (Ambrose) Heisler of Farley; niece, Jessica Rhodes of Dubuque, nephew, Adam Rhodes (friend, Dana Goerdt) of Maquoketa; and a great-nephew Callan Rhodes of Maquoketa.

He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

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

Beverly A. DeBord

Max P. Elliott

It is with great sadness that his loving family shares that Max Paul Elliott died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Harmony in Dubuque.

Friends may call from 1-7 p.m. on Sunday, October 19, 2025, at Reiff Funeral Home in Epworth, IA, where a prayer service will be held at 12:30 p.m., Epworth Fire Department will meet in a body at 4 p.m., Scouting America members will meet in a body at 5 p.m., and a Knights of Columbus Rosary will be held at 6:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Monday at the funeral home, where the Epworth American Legion John White Post # 650 will meet in a body at 9:45 a.m.  A funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, in Epworth at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025, with Fr. Thomas Ascheman officiating, Fr. Steve Garner concelebrating, and assisted by his son Deacon Nick Elliott.  Burial will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery in Farley, Iowa, with full military honors afforded by the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650.

Max was born on May 6, 1944, to Kenneth and Lucille (Dress) Elliott.  He received his education from St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Farley, Iowa and Western Dubuque High School in Epworth, Iowa, where he graduated in 1964. Max is a Veteran having served in the United States Army, having completed United States Army Aviation School in 1965, earning two Air Medals.  He worked at the Dubuque Pak, Georgia Pacific, Boy Scouts of America, Knights of Columbus, Zephyr Aluminum, and Walmart during his career.  He earned degrees in Marketing Management from Northeast Iowa Technical Institute and Business Administration from the University of Dubuque.  He worked tirelessly for his family and showed them a solid work ethic.  Although he was not able to enjoy retirement after becoming sick, he found joy in the simple pleasures in life: family, faith, friendships, and sweet treats.

Max was united in marriage to Sharon Kay Betts, and she preceded him in death on January 22, 1975.  On September 11, 1976, he was united in marriage to Karolyn C. Kalb at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Epworth, Iowa.  She preceded him in death on October 30, 2024.   They had two children whom he was so proud of, never missing a chance to share what they were up to.  Max became “Papa” to his beloved grandchildren.  He held them close to his heart and was proud of his family.  He was also a very active member of the Epworth American Legion John White Post #650, and the Boy Scouts of America Pack 70 and Troup 70.  Max was a dedicated Scouter and is most well-known for bringing Wood Badge to the Northeast Iowa Council.  He led the first Wood Badge in the council and the training continues today. During his Scouting career, he was awarded the following awards: George Meany award in 1981, District Award of Merit in 1983, Silver Beaver in 2002, and Vigil Member of the Order of the Arrow.  Max also performed his civic duty while serving on the Epworth City Council 1976-1977, and Planning and Zoning from 1979-2016.

Max was a devout Catholic as a member of St. Patrick’s Parish, the Knights of Columbus Council #7823 in Epworth, Iowa, and the 4th Degree Dubourg Assembly #1573 in Dubuque, Iowa.  His faith sustained him through war, tragedies, and health issues, yet he was always willing to share that faith, a laugh, or lend a helping hand.  One of the ways he sustained his faith was praying the rosary, it gave him strength to keep pushing.  Max believed deeply in Jesus and in the true presence of Him in the Eucharist, receiving the Eucharist as his final meal.

Those left to cherish Max’s memory are his two children, Deacon Nick (Nettie) Elliott, and Sara (Jeff McMillen) Elliott; two grandchildren, Dawson and Payton Elliott; one brother, David (Jeanette Frederick) Elliott; brothers and sisters-in-law, Arlene Elliott, Diane Elliott, Anna Elliott, Tom (Melinda) Betts, Bob (Claudette) Betts, Frank Kalb, Steve (Donna) Kalb, Cindy Gansen, Kathy Kalb, Fred Pierce, and Mike Hannan.

He is also preceded in death by his parents; two unborn children; siblings, Kenneth (Audrey) Elliott Sr. Richard Elliott Sr., Lyle Elliott Sr., Lois Smith, Phillip Elliott, and Jeneen Pierce; in-laws, Alfred and Mildred Betts, Leonard and Marie Kalb; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jeanette Elliott, Loras Kalb, Ken Kalb, and Mary Hannan; three nephews, Robert Elliott, Leslie Ganfield, and DJ Elliott; two nieces, Theresa Sawvell, and Tracie Elliott; two great nephew, Jeremy Fischer and Christian Simon; and a great niece, Jennifer Elliott.

Max’s family is deeply grateful to the residents, nurses, and staff at Harmony Dubuque and Hospice of Dubuque, for their loving care and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Divine Word College in Max’s memory – leaving a continuing legacy of his faith and devotion to Catholicism.

A Tribute Video may be viewed, and online condolences may be given to the family at www.reifffuneralhomeinc.com

Theresa Torrey

Theresa (T’rese) Torrey, 86, of Dubuque, completed her life’s journey on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until 10:15 am on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Theresa will be at 10:30 am on Monday, October 20, 2025, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Fr. Jeff Frieden as the Celebrant. Burial will be at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Theresa was born in Rickardsville, IA on November 19, 1938, to John C. and Laurene Baumgartner. She was smack dab in the middle of a lineup of eight children that ran alternately between “it’s a boy” and “it’s a girl.” She was given the full name of Theresa (after a beloved Grandma) Christian Elizabeth, as she was born on the feast of St. Elizabeth. While the good graces of her grandmother held, she’d be the first to deadpan you with her wry blue eyes twinkling, “I ain’t no saint.” She survived that “middle child” syndrome with a little stubbornness, a quick tongue, an a healthy dose of self reliance. She had lots of stories to tell.

A lifelong Dubuquer, Theresa attended St. Raphael Cathedral Grade School and St. Joseph Academy. Her working years were spent at Dubuque Stamp & Manufacturing, a job she excelled at for many years. It was also where she reacquainted with Bob Pregler, the manager of Dubuque Stamp, and the two were married in The Little Brown Church in Nashua, IA. He preceded her in death in 1989.

Some years later, Theresa was reunited with friend, Don Torrey, and they married in 1994, spending more than 25 years together until his death in 2020.

There will be no fond recollection here of her “sweet homemade treats or her famous Sunday spreads.” T’rese hated cooking and spent little time in the kitchen. She was, however, an unabashed and very fine shopper.

Theresa is survived by her sisters, Margaret Koch and Ileane Deutsch; her brother, Rich Baumgartner; brother-in-law, Roger Shaw, all of Dubuque. She leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as grand nieces and nephews. She is also survived by Bob and Don’s immediate and extended families, including Mike (Krista) Torrey and their son, Nick.

In addition to Bob and Don, she was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Ed (Sharon) Baumgartner, John (Marlene) Baumgartner, Robert (Ruth) Baumgartner, and sister, Rita Shaw; sister-in-law, Mary Baumgartner; brothers-in-law, Chuck Koch and Wayne Deutsch Sr; and several nieces and nephews.

Thank you to all who made T’rese’s final days easier. A special shout out to those who work in the health care system and take the time to know their patients, call them by name and treat them with dignity, kindness, and patience in difficult times. Donita at McDonalds, who offered warm words along with those coveted cookies, is a reminder to us all that small gestures matter.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Dubuque Regional Humane Society or Care Initiatives Hospice of Maquoketa.

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

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

Deborah L. Jenkins

Deborah L. “Deb” Jenkins, 72, of Davenport, and formerly of Maquoketa, passed away on Tuesday morning, October 14, 2025, at UnityPoint, Trinity Hospital in Bettendorf, Iowa.

Deborah Lenn Arterberry was born on August 31, 1953 to Levi and Donna (McCarty) Arterberry.  She grew up in Maquoketa and was a 1971 graduate of Maquoketa High School.  She then attended Kirkwood Community College where she received her degree as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

Deb had worked as an LPN for area nursing homes and hospitals for over 30 years as well did traveling in home healthcare for many years.  In retirement, she worked at WALMART in Maquoketa.

Deb enjoyed reading mysteries, watching drama and cooking shows on television, and attending movies and concerts.  She was an animal lover and especially loved adopting older dogs with special needs, disabilities and/or challenges.

Those left to honor Deb’s memory include her children, Leah (Sam) Spratt of Davenport, IA, Ebony Shevonne Jenkins of Dubuque, IA, Chance Jenkins of Bellevue, IA, and Jo-Vivian Smith of Cedar Rapids, IA; 10 grandchildren with one great-grandchild on the way; and siblings, Bonnie (Clint) Robertson, David Arterberry, Gary (Lori) Arterberry, and Bernie (Dani Wells) Arterberry.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

At Peace Cremation Services have been provided by Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa.  A private family service will be held.  Burial will be at the Hickory Grove Cemetery, rural Monmouth, Iowa.

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

Robert P. Blum

Robert Paul “Bob” Blum of Saint Catherine’s, IA passed away October 13, 2025 at home.

Friends and family may visit from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road.  Private Family Funeral service will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025 at the Funeral Home with burial to follow at St Catherine’s Cemetery.

Bob was born on September 9, 1946 son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Ackerman) Blum.  He graduated from Dubuque Senior High School in 1964 and married Linda M. Knockel on June 8, 1968 at Saint Catherine’s Church in Saint Catherine’s, IA. She passed away on February 3, 2010.  He remarried on December 18, 2014 to Carol Miller at Saint John’s Lutheran Church in Saint Donatus, IA.

Bob began his career at John Deere Dubuque Works on April 10, 1972 retiring on April 30, 2003.  After retirement he joined his son Brad as a co-owner and driver at Bradley Jo Charter.  In August of 2009 they sold the family business to Windstar Lines of Carroll, IA.  He continued driving for Windstar Lines Dubuque location for a few years.  Most recently, he drove part time for Regional Transit Authority (RTA) until his passing.

Bob loved to travel. Camping and taking trips in his motorhome with family and friends was one of the highlights of his life.  Some of his fondest memories were Jamboree in the Hills in Wheeling, WV and Country Fest in Cadot, WI along with many family vacations across the country and multiple cruises to various locations.  He also loved gambling in Las Vegas and the local casinos in the area.

Bob is survived by his wife Carol Blum. His son Bryan (Marie) Blum, granddaughter Nicole (Austin) Sink, great grandson Jaxon Sink & grandson Justin Blum. His son Brad (Amy) Blum granddaughters Madelyn &  Allison Blum and grandsons Benjamin & Andrew Blum. His daughter Brenda (Mel) Schumacher, grandson Robby Schumacher & granddaughter Natalie (Trever Allen) Schumacher.  His step-son Jason Haynes and step grandsons Weslee & Harrison Haynes and step granddaughter Cathryn Hanyes.  His step-son Alvin “Lee” Haynes and step grandson Jason Robey. His sister Leta (Ralf) Schreyer, In-Laws from his first marriage Bonnie (Terry) Pfeiffer, Linda L. Knockel, Mike (Jeanne) Knockel, Pauline (Mark) Hancock, Pam (Ron) Schuster, Sandy (Steve) Strub, Teri Lynn (Michael) Chensky. In-Laws from his 2nd marriage Betty McPhail, Harold (Rita) Miller, Carlton Busch and many nieces and nephews from both families.

Bob was preceded in death by his 1st wife Linda M. Blum, daughter Becky Blum and great grandson Tate Schumacher-Allen.  His parents Samuel and Elizabeth Blum, his sister Joyce Blum, his brother Sam Gene (Linda) Blum. His Father and Mother in-law from his 1st marriage Herbie & Evie Knockel and Father and Mother-in-law from his 2nd marriage Harold & Anna Miller.  His in laws from his first marriage Donnie “Clem”, (Nancy) Knockel and Bill “Joker” Knockel.  His in laws from his 2nd marriage Leroy “Whitey” Miller, Shirley Busch and Bob Schmerbach.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Key West Fire Department and Dubuque County Sheriff’s Department for the quick response and compassion during this difficult time.

Sarah Gieselman

Marlene M. Feuss

Marlene M. Feuss, 89, of Lost Nation, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday morning, October 13, 2025, at Maquoketa Care Center in Maquoketa, Iowa.

A celebration of her life will be held at 10:30 A.M., Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation, Iowa.  Cremation rites have been accorded, and burial will follow the service at Busch Cemetery, rural Lost Nation, Iowa.  The Carson Celebration of Life Center in Maquoketa is caring for the family.

Marlene Mae Benischek was born on May 20, 1936, in Jones County, rural Monmouth, Iowa, to Henry and Thelma (Dean) Benischek.  She was a bright student and was the valedictorian of her eighth-grade class at Pence Ridge Country School and continued to excel academically, graduating as valedictorian from Oxford Junction Consolidated High School in 1954.

Marlene’s life was one of commitment and service, beginning with her marriage to Fred Feuss Jr. on February 6, 1955, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Lost Nation. Together, they welcomed three children into the world: Clyde, Carl, and Cheryl.

In the early years of her marriage, Marlene worked alongside Fred on their farm, nurturing both crops and family with equal care. As her children grew, she pursued her passion for helping others by becoming a nurse’s aide at the Jackson County Public Hospital in Maquoketa. Her dedication to her profession led her to further her education in Peosta, where she earned her degree as a Registered Nurse. Marlene’s caring hands and warm heart touched many lives during her years of service at the hospital and later at the Maquoketa Care Center.

Marlene’s involvement in her community extended beyond her professional work. She was a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church, where she found strength and fellowship. Her spirit of giving was also evident in her commitment to donating blood, a simple act that saved countless lives.

Her interests outside of work reflected who she was.  Marlene was an exceptional seamstress and baker, known for her delicious dinner rolls, potato salad, and cakes that graced many family gatherings.

Those left to honor her memory include her husband Fred Feuss Jr. of Lost Nation, IA; children, Clyde Feuss of Lost Nation, IA, Carl (Lori) Feuss of Lost Nation, IA, and Cheryl (Gary) Feuss Kunde of Tipton, IA; 4 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Jane (Kirk) Rentschler of Solon, IA.  She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Phyllis Bisinger, Gene Benischek, Claudette Brown, and infant sister Leona Benischek.

The family would like to especially thank Hospice of Jackson County.

In lieu of other expressions of sympathy, a Marlene Mae Feuss memorial fund has been established.

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

Wayne C. Stewart

Wayne C. Stewart, age 84, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Stonehill Health Center in Dubuque, IA, with his family by his side.

Per Wayne’s request, private family services will be held. Burial will follow in East Dubuque Cemetery. The Miller Funeral Home of East Dubuque is assisting the family.

Wayne was born on September 4, 1941 in Dubuque, IA, the son of Ralph M. and Violet P. (Anker) Stewart, Sr. He was a graduate of East Dubuque High School.  On February 13, 1965 he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lynn Ann Frommelt. She preceded him in death on November 30, 2021.

Wayne served in the U. S. Marine Corps reserves. He was the owner and operator of W. C. Stewart Construction Company and the owner of Birchwood Golf Course, rural Hazel Green, WI. He played and sponsored numerous fast-pitch softball teams over the years. Wayne had a great love for animals and was known to pick up every stray cat and dog in Jo Daviess County and provide them with a home.

Wayne was an avid Chicago Bears fan and season ticket holder for over 40 years. He and Lynn attended the Super Bowl in New Orleans, the ’85 – ’86 season. Wayne and Lynn enjoyed going to many of the area supper clubs. Buddy’s, Kall Inn, Three Mile House and Timmerman’s were some of their favorites.

Surviving are two children, Russell Stewart of East Dubuque, IL, and Heather (Greg) Atkins of Hazel Green, WI; three grandchildren, Samuel & Isabel Stewart and Jacob Atkins; his siblings, Ralph “Marv” (Linda) Stewart and Eugene “Whistle” (Randa) Stewart both of East Dubuque, IL, and Ellen Stewart of Springville, IA; in-laws, Kristy Dalen of Rochelle, IL & Tim Runde of Cuba City, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph & Violet, his wife Lynn Ann, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Wilfred “Bootzie” and Jean Frommelt and sister-in-law, Candy Runde.

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

Kay A. McNally

Kay A. McNally 87, of Cascade, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13, 2025, at her home in Cascade, Iowa.

Visitation for Kay will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at the Reiff Funeral Home in Cascade, Iowa, where  a prayer service will be held at 3:30 p.m.  Visitation will also be held after 9 a.m. on Friday at the funeral home.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Kay will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, October 17, 2025, at St. Martin’s Catholic Church in Cascade, Iowa, with Rev. Mark Osterhaus presiding, and Assisting Deacon will be Mark Otting. Burial will be held in Calvary Cemetery in Cascade, Iowa.

Kay was born January 24, 1938, in Cascade, Iowa, daughter of Irvin L. and Catherine A. (Gudenkauf) Recker.  She graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic  High School in Cascade, Iowa.  On January 24, 1959, she was united in marriage to David McNally at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sand Springs, Iowa.  He preceded her in death on July 8, 2024.

Kay operated an in-home daycare for over 40 years, caring for countless children and often welcoming second generations from the same families.  Her loving nature and dedication touched many lives throughout the years.  She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who took great pride in caring for her family.  She also enjoyed camping adventures with her husband, cheering on the Chicago Cubs, and following Caitlin Clark’s basketball career.  In her later years she found joy in participating in activities at River Bend, especially working on puzzles and crafting with friends.

Kay was a member of the St. Matthias Parish in Cascade, Iowa.

Those left to cherish her memory are three children, Mike (Kim) McNally of Monticello, Jan (Kent) Manternach of Osceola, and Todd (Jill) McNally of Madison, WI; 7 grandchildren, Travis (Alyssa) and Marissa McNally, Zach (Lynsey), Josh (Stacey), Jake (fiancé, Mackenzie) and Nathan Manternach and Danny Driscoll; six great grandchildren; two sisters, Carol White of Hiawatha, IA and Diann Baumann of Milwaukee, WI; four brothers, Norb (Monica) Recker and Ed (Darice) Recker both of Cascade, IA, Pat (Sherri) Recker of Nokomis, FL, and Terry Recker of Evansdale, IA; three sisters-in-law Margie Gehl and Rita Recker both of Cascade and Tammy McNally of South Bend, IN; brother-in-law, Pete Sauser of Cascade; and many nieces and nephews.

She is also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Marvin Recker, father and mother-in-law, Hebert J. and Helen (Kurt) McNally; two sisters-in-law, Judy (Bob) Salathe (Harry Redwine, Bill Eggers) and Mary Jane Sauser; four brothers-in-law, Joe Gehl, Tom Baumann, Pat White, and Steve McNally.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Staff and Nurses at River Bend Retirement Community and Hospice of Dubuque for the wonderful care they gave to Kay.

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

Rhonda E. Knight

Rhonda E. Knight, 67, of Dubuque, passed away Monday, October 13, 2025, at Sunnycrest Manor.

Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, at Egelhof, Siegert & Casper Funeral Home and Crematory, 2659 John F. Kennedy Rd., Dubuque. Services will be at 12 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.  Interment will be private.

Rhonda was born March 17, 1958, the daughter of William and Wanda (Watson) Knight. She was employed at the Town Clock Inn and the Dubuque Area Sheltered Workshop. Rhonda also served on the Dubuque Transit Board.

Rhonda enjoyed playing cards with friends and painting. She loved to spend time with family, and was very proud of her nephews and niece.

Rhonda is survived by her parents, William and Wanda Knight, of Dubuque; her sister, Angela (David) Shaffer, of Coralville, IA, and their children, Alexander Shaffer of Taipei, Taiwan, and Melody Shaffer, of Coralville; her brother, Anthony (the late Peggy) Knight, of Iowa City, IA, and their children, Garret DeNeve, of Lakewood, CO, and Devin (Megan) DeNeve and their son, Redmond, of Iowa City.

James C. Banwarth

A life lived with love will never be forgotten. James C. Banwarth, 78, of Dubuque, Iowa, passed away surrounded by his loving family on October 11, 2025, at Harmony Nursing Home. He embraced life as he bravely faced the challenges of Parkinson’s.

Friends and family may visit from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Stephanie Schlimm officiating.

Jim was born to Charles and Eunice Banwarth on February 16, 1947. He graduated from Wahlert High School in 1965, served in the U.S. Airforce for four years, then began his career as a delivery and sales associate at Banworth and Udelhoven Furniture World. On December 27, 1971, Jim and Francine Buda walked down the aisle of St. Mary’s Church in Dubuque and said, “I do.”

Jim (aka Slim) was a self-taught musician who played guitar with friends and family throughout his life. In high school he performed with a five-member band called “The Swingin’ Strings.” Jim had many passions. He restored antique furniture, grew pear trees, collected old clocks, ran half and full marathons, and fished anywhere he was allowed to drop a line in the water (actually, he didn’t care if he was allowed to or not). At various times in his life he was known locally as a motorcycle-riding, guitar-playing, corvette-driving, poker-playing, wine-making and drinking, Snickers- and Peanut M&M-eating, wheeling and dealing “King of The Manor.” The loves of his life were his children and grandchildren. He will be eternally loved and remembered by everyone whose heart he touched, and his loss will be felt for as long as any of us can remember.

Jim is survived by his wife Francine, sons Abe (Brandee) Banwarth, Noah Banwarth (Katie Roemerman), daughter Sophie (Nick) Rossman, grandchildren Ruby and Rocco Rossman, sisters Judy Hafeman, Jane Buti, Joan (Denny) Shields, and Mary (Jerry) Klimesh, brother Dan (Toni) Banwarth, sisters-in-law Rosalia-Buda Claussen and Venice (Jim) Richardson, and nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Charles and Eunice Banwarth, in-laws Rocco and Carol Buda, brothers-in-law Dennis Buda, Roger Hafeman, Otto Buti, Charlie Claussen, and his infant granddaughter Irene Rossman.

Jim’s family is deeply grateful to the residents, nurses, and staff at Harmony Dubuque, UnityPoint Finley Hospital, and Hospice of Dubuque, for their loving care and support.

Memorials may be made to Mother’s Milk Bank of Iowa or Hospice of Dubuque.